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Gujarat Govts latest marriage notification order has ominous consequences

Procedures will make young lovers fully dependent on parents for decision By T N Ashok Last Friday, in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi rose to announce what the BJP government described as a measured administrative reform. Couples who elope and wish to register their marriage, Sanghavi [] The post Gujarat Govts latest marriage notification order has ominous consequences appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 11:55 pm

New Delhi Architectures a global south blueprint for sovereign AI

AI impact summit 2026 has been able to focus on human needs from high tech By Arun Kumar Shrivastav The India AI Impact Summit 2026, which concluded on February 20 at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, has officially redefined the global trajectory of artificial intelligence. While previous international gatherings, such as the [] The post New Delhi Architectures a global south blueprint for sovereign AI appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 11:53 pm

Systemic Failure Demands Accountability

The revelation that as many as 877 ventilators have become defunct across Jammu and Kashmir is a serious indictment of the way critical health infrastructure is being managed in the Union Territory. Of this alarming number, 111 ventilators are reported to be lying unused at Government Medical College Jammu alone. These figures, disclosed in the [] The post Systemic Failure Demands Accountability appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 11:48 pm

How a Supreme Court ruling and a Russian oil gambit rewrote Indias trade destiny

The Proposed text in March of final India-US trade deal to be substantially calibrated By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers NEW YORK: When the Supreme Court of the United States struck down Donald Trumps sweeping global tariffs on February 20, delivering a 63 verdict that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 confers no authority [] The post How a Supreme Court ruling and a Russian oil gambit rewrote Indias trade destiny appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 11:44 pm

J&K | Another Witness Identifies Malik, Pahloo In 1990 IAF Attack Case

Jammu, Feb 21: Another eyewitness on Saturday identified Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Yasin Malik and Mohd Rafiq Pahloo alias Nanaji as one of the shooters involved in the January 25, 1990, attack on a group of Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel in Srinagar, officials said. The key prosecution witness identified the two accused during a hearing at the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) court in Jammu, they said. Earlier on January 31, another eyewitness had identified [] The post J&K | Another Witness Identifies Malik, Pahloo In 1990 IAF Attack Case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 9:24 pm

Security Forces Recover Pistol, Magazines From Hideout In Hari Budha Bowl Poonch

Poonch, Feb 21: Security forces on Saturday busted a terrioist hideout in the Hari Budha Bowl area Poonch following specific intelligence inputs, officials said. Troops of the White Knight Corps launched a search operation in the area and recovered one pistol, two magazines, clothing, eatables and other logistic material from a natural cave-like hideout. The recovery was made during a systematic search of suspicious locations, they said. They said the operation highlights sustained surveillance and proactive domination of the area [] The post Security Forces Recover Pistol, Magazines From Hideout In Hari Budha Bowl Poonch appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 9:06 pm

Police Officer Assaulted In Jammu; Accused Arrested After Video Of Incident Circulated Online

Jammu, Feb 21: A man was arrested for allegedly assaulting a police officer who was on duty in the Trikuta Nagar area here, an official said on Saturday. The action follows a viral video of the incident and a written complaint, prompting immediate legal proceedings and investigation, a police spokesman said. On February 20, a written complaint was lodged by Sub Inspector Rajesh Kumar, posted in the District Police Lines Jammu, stating that while on official duty and present at [] The post Police Officer Assaulted In Jammu; Accused Arrested After Video Of Incident Circulated Online appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 8:55 pm

Searches Carried Out At Residence Of Man Accused In Visa Fraud Case In Jammu

Jammu, Feb 21: The Special Crime Wing of Jammu and Kashmir Polices Crime Branch on Saturday conducted searches at the house a person involved in duping many job seekers on the pretext of arranging working visas to travel abroad, an official said. The house of Kartik Choudhary at Purana Pind in R S Pura was searched after warrant was obtained from the competent court, in connection with an FIR registered last year under relevant sections of law at Police Station [] The post Searches Carried Out At Residence Of Man Accused In Visa Fraud Case In Jammu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 8:53 pm

7 Drug Peddlers Arrested In Jammu, Udhampur; 2 Pistols, Heroin Seized

Jammu, Feb 21: Seven alleged drug peddlers were arrested at different places in Jammu and Udhampur districts of Jammu and Kashmir, police said on Saturday. Balvinder Kumar and Sunny Kumar, both residents of R S Pura, were arrested from the Gandhi Nagar area of Jammu city and one pistol, one magazine and 21 grams of heroin were recovered from them, a police spokesman said. Mohd Iqbal and Amit Kumar alias Jogi, hailing from Samba, were also arrested from Gandhi Nagar, [] The post 7 Drug Peddlers Arrested In Jammu, Udhampur; 2 Pistols, Heroin Seized appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 8:07 pm

Army Commander Inaugurates Banwat Ekta Sthal Near LoC In J&Ks Poonch

Jammu, Feb 21: Armys Northern Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma on Saturday inaugurated the Banwat Ekta Sthal a public monument symbolising national pride and sovereignty near the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. The project was completed in a record 45 days and features a towering 105 feet National Flag, the tallest in Poonch district, a defence spokesman said. Located barely two km from the LoC and set against the scenic backdrop of Pir [] The post Army Commander Inaugurates Banwat Ekta Sthal Near LoC In J&Ks Poonch appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 8:01 pm

Srinagar Shatters All-Time February Record at 21C; Valley Witnesses Extraordinary Warm Spell

Srinagar, Feb 21: Srinagar on Saturday recorded its highest-ever maximum temperature for the month of February, touching 21.0C and breaking a decade-old record. As per details, previous all-time February record of 20.6C was registered on February 24, 2016. What makes the development more striking is the sharp deviation from normal, with todays temperature standing a massive 10.0C above the seasonal average an extraordinary anomaly for late winter in the Kashmir Valley, details stated. According to Kashmir Weather, the spike is [] The post Srinagar Shatters All-Time February Record at 21C; Valley Witnesses Extraordinary Warm Spell appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 7:55 pm

Police Attach Property Of JKNOP Under UAPA In J&Ks Budgam

Srinagar, Feb 21: In a strong and decisive strike against terror operatives and their support structures, Jammu and Kashmir Police in Budgam today attached immovable property of a JKNOP involved in FIR No. 58/2024 of Police Station Khag, registered under Sections 7/25, 18, 20, and 23 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The officials said the attached property belongs to Ghulam Nabi Najar, son of Late Abdul Jabbar, resident of Gamgulla Khansahib. The property comprises 01 Kanal and 16 [] The post Police Attach Property Of JKNOP Under UAPA In J&Ks Budgam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 7:51 pm

DDC Jammu Issues Partial Modification On NOC For Electricity Bill Payments

Jammu, Feb 21: The Office of the District Development Commissioner (DDC), Jammu has issued a partial modification to its earlier order regarding the requirement of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for payment of electricity charges. As per an order issued by Dr. Rakesh Minhas, IAS, District Development Commissioner Jammu, a clarification has been made to Office Order No. DDCJ/CPO/2025-26/15379-83 dated February 16, 2026, According to the modified instructions, in relaxation of Para-3 of the previous order, Drawing and Disbursing Officers [] The post DDC Jammu Issues Partial Modification On NOC For Electricity Bill Payments appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 7:40 pm

Centre targets six crore Lakhpati Didis by 2029-30: Union Minister Chouhan

Hyderabad, Feb 21: Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday said the Centre would strive to achieve the target of creating six crore Lakhpati Didis under the rural livelihoods mission by 2029-30. He said the previous target set by PM Modi to create three crore Lakhpati Didis by end of 2027 was achieved by 2025 with the contribution of rural development ministrys team, bankers and also state governments. Chouhan was speaking during the Central Level Coordination Commitee (CLCC) [] The post Centre targets six crore Lakhpati Didis by 2029-30: Union Minister Chouhan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 5:47 pm

US authorities discussing if deal with Iran should cover only nuclear program

WASHINGTON, Feb 21: The US Administration is discussing whether a possible deal with Iran should cover only its nuclear program or also extend to Iranian missiles and proxy forces, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday, citing US and Middle Eastern officials familiar with the matter. On Thursday, US President Donald Trump said that Iran had 15 days maximum to make a deal with the United States. With the discussions on the modalities of the potential deal kept internal to [] The post US authorities discussing if deal with Iran should cover only nuclear program appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 5:43 pm

Mass Housing Colony Planned at Padgampora; Master Plans for Awantipora, Kupwara and Pulwama Near Completion

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government has outlined a series of housing and urban planning initiatives across Kashmir, including a proposed mass housing colony in Pulwama and the finalisation of key master plans, the details of which were placed before the Assembly. The Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board has proposed to develop a Mass Housing []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 5:42 pm

Five terrorists, two security personnel killed in NW Pakistan

PESHAWAR, Feb 21: Two security personnel were killed in a suicide attack during an intelligence-based operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in northwest Pakistan on Saturday, militarys media wing said. Five khawarij from the Fitna al Khwarij were also killed during the operation in the Bannu district of the province. Fitna-al-Khawarij is a term that the state uses for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The intelligence based operation was being conducted on reported presence of khawarij, including a suicide bomber, when [] The post Five terrorists, two security personnel killed in NW Pakistan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 5:41 pm

All new Gravite priced at Rs 5.65 lakh launched at Nissan showroom in Chennai

CHENNAI, Feb 21: Auto major Nissan India signalled a bold India resurgence with the launch of its all new Gravite at its city showroom at an introductory price of Rs 5.65 lakhs. The much-anticipated Gravite was formally launched by Actresses Ms Farina Azad, Rhema and Subha, P M Senthilnathan -Vice President, HDFC Bank Auto Loan in the presence of Mr. Anand Babu Regional Sales Manager, Nissan India, Ms Neha Chopra Nahar- CEO Autorelli Nissan, among others. A release from [] The post All new Gravite priced at Rs 5.65 lakh launched at Nissan showroom in Chennai appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 5:37 pm

Motherson remains on course to achieve USD 108 bn turnover by 2030: Chairman

NEW DELHI, Feb 21: Motherson Group remains on course to achieve its target of USD 108 billion in revenue by 2030, according to Chairman Vivek Chaand Sehgal. The group, which has over 425 manufacturing facilities across the globe catering to diverse businesses, including auto components and aerospace, posted USD 25.7 billion revenue in FY25. I think the options, the opportunities are there. We have to be the guys who are going to convert it, Sehgal said when asked about crossing [] The post Motherson remains on course to achieve USD 108 bn turnover by 2030: Chairman appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 5:35 pm

Inter-State Youth Exchange Programme Inaugurated in Srinagar

Srinagar, February 21: The Inter-State Youth Exchange Programme was formally inaugurated at SCERT Bemina on 20th February, 2026. The initiative is being organised by Mera Yuva Bharat under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs. The five-day programme has brought together 37 youth delegates [] The post Inter-State Youth Exchange Programme Inaugurated in Srinagar appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Kashmir Media Watch 21 Feb 2026 5:23 pm

Nadda launches India-made tetanus and adult diphtheria vaccine

New Delhi, Feb 21: Union Health Minister J P Nadda on Saturday launched the indigenously manufactured tetanus and adult diphtheria (Td) vaccine at the Central Research Institute in Himachal Pradeshs Kasauli. With the formal launch of the Td vaccine, the vaccine has now been introduced for supply under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). The Central Research Institute will supply 55 lakh doses to the UIP by April, with production expected to scale up progressively in subsequent years to further strengthen [] The post Nadda launches India-made tetanus and adult diphtheria vaccine appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 5:21 pm

Galgotian blunder: Sibal slams Govt on robodog row, accuses it of negligence

NEW DELHI, Feb 21: Former science and technology minister Kapil Sibal on Saturday took a swipe at the government over the Galgotias robodog controversy, saying the incident reflected its negligence and had led to the coinage of a new term Galgotian blunder. The Rajya Sabha member also weighed into how artificial intelligence (AI) will impact the country and questioned the governments actions in preparing the country for it. There is an international conference taking place on artificial intelligence. This [] The post Galgotian blunder: Sibal slams Govt on robodog row, accuses it of negligence appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 5:14 pm

IGNOU Extends January 2026 Admissions & Re-Registration Deadline to Feb 28

Srinagar, February 21: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has extended the last date for admission to its Open Distance Learning (ODL) and Online Learning programmes for the January 2026 session up to February 28, 2026, following requests received from students across the country. The extension is aimed at accommodating prospective learners who were [] The post IGNOU Extends January 2026 Admissions & Re-Registration Deadline to Feb 28 appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Kashmir Media Watch 21 Feb 2026 5:00 pm

EWS Flats for Houseless Families Across Jammu Kashmir; 968 Units Approved in Jammu

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday informed the Assembly that Economically Weaker Section (EWS) flats are being provided to eligible houseless and landless families with an annual household income of up to Rs 3 lakh under the Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) vertical of the Pradhan Mantri Awas YojanaUrban 2.0 (PMAY-U 2.0). The []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 4:50 pm

J&K Govt Shattered Dreams Of Youth By Outsourcing 23,000 Jobs: LoP Sunil Sharma

Srinagar, Feb 21: The Jammu and Kashmir government has shattered the dreams of unemployed youth in the Union territory by outsourcing around 23,000 jobs, Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma said on Saturday. The BJP leader asked the Omar Abdullah government to rollback the order or face the wrath of the youth. The Abdullah government has outsourced, sold around 23,000 jobs instead of filling them through a transparent recruitment process. It has shattered the dreams of poor, unemployed youth. This [] The post J&K Govt Shattered Dreams Of Youth By Outsourcing 23,000 Jobs: LoP Sunil Sharma appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:46 pm

Law Must Evolve From Fortress To Forum To Make It More Accessible: CJI Kant

Jodhpur, Feb 21: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Saturday said that law cannot remain a fortress erected to protect society from arbitrariness, and called on the young lawyers to make it a forum where differences are debated, rights articulated and power is reasoned with. Kant, during his address From Fortress to Forum: Law in an Unfinished Republic at the 18th Convocation of National Law University here, urged the professionals to see law not as a closed [] The post Law Must Evolve From Fortress To Forum To Make It More Accessible: CJI Kant appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:23 pm

Shantmanu Takes Oath As J&K SEC, Hints At Holding Local Body Elections

Jammu, Feb 21: Former bureaucrat Shantmanu, who was on Saturday sworn in as the State Election Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir for a five-year term, underscored the importance of holding the long-pending panchayat and urban local body elections in the Union Territory. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administered the oath of office to the retired IAS officer at a ceremony held at Lok Bhavan here. The oath-taking ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his cabinet colleagues, including Deputy [] The post Shantmanu Takes Oath As J&K SEC, Hints At Holding Local Body Elections appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:21 pm

LoP Sharma Accuses NC of Deceit, Alleges it Outsourced 24,000 Jobs in Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Leader of Opposition and senior BJP leader Sunil Sharma on Saturday accused the ruling National Conference (NC) of betraying the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, alleging political deceit, double standards and governance failures, particularly on employment. Speaking at the BJPs Mega Joining Programme at SKICC, Srinagar, Sharma said the NC had misled voters during []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 4:16 pm

Trump says he used tariffs to end war between India, Pakistan as he lashes out at US Supreme Court verdict

NEW YORK/WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Friday said he used tariffs to end the war between India and Pakistan, as he lashed out at the Supreme Court for its decision to strike down his sweeping tariffs imposed on countries around the world. In a 6-3 vote, the judges found that the International Emergency Economic []

Kashmir Reader 21 Feb 2026 4:09 pm

ACKO Health Insurance Plans Review 2026

ACKO operates without agents or branches. That means you buy the policy, upload documents, and follow up on claims entirely online. This is quite different from the traditional insurance experience many people are used to. Some may appreciate the simplicity. Others may miss having someone to speak to face-to-face. But does a fully digital model automatically mean better health insurance? Or does it only reduce interpersonal contact at crucial times? Heres a closer look at what ACKO health insurance offers [] The post ACKO Health Insurance Plans Review 2026 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:01 pm

Pinball: A Lesson in Staying Relevant

According to the Strong National Museum of Play, pinball can be traced back to the 18th century, to a game called bagatelle. The latter, a French invention, bears a passing resemblance to the modern game, but its constructed entirely of wood, with no lights or wires anywhere. Hundreds of years since bagatelle became pinball, the game represents a lesson in how to stay relevant. Its changed its identity many times, following technological trends in step with movies, gaming, music, and [] The post Pinball: A Lesson in Staying Relevant appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:57 pm

Six Lakh Lavender Free Seedlings Distributed Among 750 Farmers In J&K, Uttarakhand

BHADERWAH (J&K), Feb 21: In a bid to further strengthen lavender cultivation, around six lakh free quality planting material (QPM) seedlings were distributed among 750 farmers in different parts of Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand, an official said on Saturday. The initiative aims at expanding the cultivation of the exotic aromatic crop, enhancing farmers income and consolidating the regions growing reputation as a hub of lavender production in the country, Sandeep Singh Charak, Lavender Scientist from CSIR-IIIM Jammu, said. He [] The post Six Lakh Lavender Free Seedlings Distributed Among 750 Farmers In J&K, Uttarakhand appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:49 pm

Protest at AI Summit a well thought out conspiracy against India: Rijiju slams Congress

NEW DELHI, Feb 21: Union minister Kiren Rijiju on Saturday launched a blistering attack on the Congress, alleging that the party has committed a big sin against the country by deploying its youth wing workers to hold a protest at India AI Impact Summit. Terming the protest as shameful, Rijiju alleged that Congress youth wings protest was not a mistake but a well thought out conspiracy by the party to attack India. The Congress committed a big sin against the [] The post Protest at AI Summit a well thought out conspiracy against India: Rijiju slams Congress appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:41 pm

Punjab Govt just squandering money on newspaper ads, no action on drug menace: Haryana CM

CHANDIGARH, Feb 21:Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday slammed the AAP government in Punjab over the issue of drug menace, alleging that it was squandering money on newspaper advertisements for its anti-drug campaign but taking no concrete action. Taking on the Bhagwant Mann government on gang activities in the state, Saini said nobody feels safe in Punjab now. On the issue of law and order, Saini said nobody felt safe in the state. When the BJP forms government [] The post Punjab Govt just squandering money on newspaper ads, no action on drug menace: Haryana CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:40 pm

Maharashtra minister withdraws defamation case against Raut after latter expresses regret in court

MUMBAI, Feb 21: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Saturday said Maharashtra Minister Dada Bhuse withdrew a defamation case filed against him after he expressed regret before a court in Nashik, stating that his allegation of corruption was based on incorrect information. The two leaders appeared before the court in Malegaon together in the morning. Speaking to reporters after the proceedings, Bhuse, a leader of the ruling Shiv Sena, said that they both made it clear in court that [] The post Maharashtra minister withdraws defamation case against Raut after latter expresses regret in court appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:39 pm

86 Nations, Two Intl Organisations Sign AI Impact Summit Declaration: IT Min Vaishnaw

NEW DELHI, Feb 21: As many as 86 countries and two international organisations have signed the AI Impact Summit declaration, IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said, adding that the US, UK, Canada, China, Denmark, and Germany are among the signatories. The strong global backing for the declaration comes at the conclusion of the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. Vaishnaw told reporters that nations across the world have formalised and upheld principles of welfare of all, and happiness [] The post 86 Nations, Two Intl Organisations Sign AI Impact Summit Declaration: IT Min Vaishnaw appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:38 pm

SC Issues Pan-India Directions on Solid Waste Rules Compliance

New Delhi, Feb 21: Flagging uneven compliance with Solid Waste Management (SWM) norms across the country, the Supreme Court of India has issued a series of pan-India directions to ensure effective enforcement of the SWM Rules, 2026, set to take effect from April 1, stressing that the right to a clean environment is inseparable from [] The post SC Issues Pan-India Directions on Solid Waste Rules Compliance appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 3:38 pm

Sri Lanka gives legal effect to scrapping pensions of parliamentarians

COLOMBO, Feb 21:The Sri Lankan government has gazetted the Parliamentary Pensions (Repeal) Act after it was passed by parliament with an overwhelming majority on Tuesday, fulfilling a key campaign promise of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. In Sri Lanka, a member of parliament was entitled to a pension after serving a five-year term. On Tuesday, lawmakers passed the bill by 154 votes in the 225-member House, with only two against. The remaining legislators were not present during the vote. The gazette [] The post Sri Lanka gives legal effect to scrapping pensions of parliamentarians appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:34 pm

India, Brazil Set Bilateral Trade Target Of Over USD 20 Billion In 5 Years

NEW DELHI, Feb 21: India and Brazil on Saturday set a bilateral trade target of more than USD 20 billion in the next five years, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva, focussing in the areas of critical minerals and security. Modi said the relations between India and Brazil have long benefitted from President Lulas visionary outlook and inspiring leadership. He also noted that Brazil is Indias largest trade partner in [] The post India, Brazil Set Bilateral Trade Target Of Over USD 20 Billion In 5 Years appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:28 pm

5 European nations pledge millions to use Ukrainian know-how to make cheap drone defences

Warsaw, Feb 21: Five European nations have announced a new program to produce low-cost air defence systems and autonomous drones using Ukrainian expertise hard-won over the past four years of war against Russia. Fridays initiative of the E5 nations France, Poland, Germany, the United Kingdom and Italy comes as one of many European efforts to bolster defence along their borders, like a drone wall with Russia and Ukraine to better detect, track and intercept drones violating [] The post 5 European nations pledge millions to use Ukrainian know-how to make cheap drone defences appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:28 pm

PhonePe launches AI-powered natural language search built on Microsoft Foundry

NEW DELHI, Feb 21:PhonePe on Saturday launched an AI-powered natural language search feature built using Microsoft Foundry, allowing users to navigate, pay and track transactions on the app through simple voice or text commands. This feature enables PhonePe users to initiate and complete in-app tasks via natural language text or voice commands, enhancing convenience and bringing personalisation to the platform's overall experience, PhonePe said in a statement. The feature replaces traditional menu-based navigation with intent-based routing, enabling users to complete [] The post PhonePe launches AI-powered natural language search built on Microsoft Foundry appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 3:25 pm

Jammu Kashmir: CM Says Kishtwar Ramzan Donation Order Issued on Clerics Request

SRINAGAR: A controversy that erupted over an administrative order regulating donation drives during Ramzan in Kishtwar appeared to subside on Friday after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah informed the Assembly that the decision had been taken at the request of local Muslim religious leaders. The order, issued by Kishtwar District Magistrate Pankaj Kumar Sharma under Section []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 3:00 pm

Nation pledges to wipe out Naxalism by 31st of next month: HM Shah

Guwahati: Union Home Minister Amit Shah today said that the nation has taken a pledge to wipe out Naxalism from the country by 31st of next month. Addressing the CRPF personnel during the 87th Raising Day parade in Guwahati, Shah said that the CRPF has rendered unparalleled service to the nation. He said, CRPF jawans [] The post Nation pledges to wipe out Naxalism by 31st of next month: HM Shah appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 2:56 pm

Article 370 Buried Forever, Says LoP Sharma

SRINAGAR: Senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma on Saturday asserted that Article 370 is buried forever and challenged the chief minister Omar Abdullah led National Conference (NC) to define its demand for a special status within the constitutional framework. Addressing a BJP joining programme at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 2:18 pm

LoP Sharma accuses NC of deceit, alleges it outsourced 24,000 jobs in J&K

Srinagar: Leader of Opposition and senior BJP leader Sunil Sharma on Saturday accused the ruling National Conference (NC) of betraying the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, alleging political deceit, double standards and governance failures, particularly on employment. Speaking at the BJPs Mega Joining Programme at SKICC, Srinagar, Sharma, said the NC had misled voters during []

Kashmir Reader 21 Feb 2026 2:07 pm

J&K: LoP Sunil Dares NC To Prove Special Status Claim, Questions Govt In Assembly

SRINAGAR, Feb 21: Leader of Opposition and senior BJP leader Sunil Sharma on Saturday accused the ruling National Conference (NC) of confusing people with misleading constitutional terminology and challenged the government to substantiate its claims regarding special status for Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at the BJPs Mega Joining Programme at SKICC, Srinagar, Sharma said he [] The post J&K: LoP Sunil Dares NC To Prove Special Status Claim, Questions Govt In Assembly appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 1:55 pm

CleanMax mobilises Rs 921 cr from anchor investors; IPO to open on Feb 23

NEW DELHI, Feb 20: Clean Max Enviro Energy Solutions, a commercial and industrial renewable energy provider, on Friday said it has raised Rs 921 crore from anchor investors ahead of its initial share sale opening for public subscription. Foreign and domestic institutions that participated in the anchor round included Temasek Holdings, Nomura Asset Management, Eastspring, SBI Life, Tata Investment Corp, HDFC Mutual Fund, ADIA, Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund, SBI General, Premji Invest, 360 One Mutual Fund, according to a circular [] The post CleanMax mobilises Rs 921 cr from anchor investors; IPO to open on Feb 23 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 1:37 pm

LoP Sunil Sharma Dares NC To Prove Special Status Claim, Questions Govt In Assembly

SRINAGAR, Feb 21: Leader of Opposition and senior BJP leader Sunil Sharma on Saturday accused the ruling National Conference (NC) of confusing people with misleading constitutional terminology and challenged the government to substantiate its claims regarding special status for Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at the BJPs Mega Joining Programme at SKICC, Srinagar, Sharma said he had openly challenged the government in the Assembly to show where the term special status is mentioned in the Constitution in the manner it is [] The post LoP Sunil Sharma Dares NC To Prove Special Status Claim, Questions Govt In Assembly appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 1:34 pm

Chenab Bridge | Afcons Chief Recalls Cyrus Mistry Refusing To Exit Project During 2008 Crisis

New Delhi, Feb 21: The worlds highest railway bridge over the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir faced turbulent times around 2008, when the Railway Board asked the construction company, Afcons Infrastructure Limited, to exit the project if it wished. However, the company decided to stay put despite apparent financial losses. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Vande Bharat Express train between Katra and Srinagar on June 6, 2025, while inaugurating the Katra-Srinagar section on which lies the historic [] The post Chenab Bridge | Afcons Chief Recalls Cyrus Mistry Refusing To Exit Project During 2008 Crisis appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 1:15 pm

Post-370 Cleanup: Obsolete Law Books to be Auctioned in Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: In the wake of the constitutional reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, a substantial stock of printed legal and administrative material has been declared obsolete and is now being processed for auction, the government informed the Assembly. The development follows the repeal of Article 370 and the conversion of the erstwhile State into []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 1:08 pm

2.51 lakh UP farmers receive Rs 285 Cr compensation: Adityanath

LUCKNOW, Feb 21: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday provided Rs 285 crore as crop compensation to over 2.51 lakh farmers, asserting that the government is ensuring their protection from natural calamities. Addressing a programme for the distribution of assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and the Mukhyamantri Krishak Durghatna Kalyan Yojana, the chief minister said that farmers who insure their crops are entitled to financial aid in case of losses caused by disasters. The amount [] The post 2.51 lakh UP farmers receive Rs 285 Cr compensation: Adityanath appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 1:02 pm

LG Sinha Administers Oath To Shantmanu As State Election Commissioner

Jammu, Feb 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday administered the oath of office to Shantmanu as the State Election Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir at a ceremony held at Lok Bhavan. The oath-taking ceremony was attended by senior officials and dignitaries. Shantmanu formally assumed charge as the State Election Commissioner following the administration of [] The post LG Sinha Administers Oath To Shantmanu As State Election Commissioner appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 12:56 pm

LG Sinha administers oath to Shantmanu as J&K State Election Commissioner

Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, on Saturday administered the oath of office to Shantmanu as the State Election Commissioner at Lok Bhavan. The oath-taking ceremony was held after the Jammu and Kashmir Government announced his appointment to the constitutional post. Earlier, the General Administration Department had issued an order appointing retired []

Kashmir Reader 21 Feb 2026 12:54 pm

Can English Be Our Global Voice While Kashmiri Remains Our Cultural Soul?

by Dr Mehnaz Rashid On International Mother Language Day, the author urges balanced bilingualism, embracing English for opportunity while preserving Kashmiri as a living source of identity and cultural continuity As the world observes International Mother Language Day, the 2026 theme, Youth Voices on Multilingual Education, invites us to reflect on the languages we inherit, []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 12:51 pm

BJP Yuva Morcha Protests In Jammu, Seeks Rahuls Apology For Shirtless Protest At AI Summit

JAMMU, Feb 21: The BJP Yuva Morcha members on Saturday held a demonstration in Jammu to counter the shirtless protest by Congress youth wing workers at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi a day ago. Led by Jammu and Kashmir Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) president Arun Prabhat, several dozen protesters gathered at Kachi Chawni Chowk, raised slogans against the Congress, burnt an effigy of Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and demanded an apology from [] The post BJP Yuva Morcha Protests In Jammu, Seeks Rahuls Apology For Shirtless Protest At AI Summit appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 12:35 pm

J&K: Suspected IED Recovered in Ganderbal

SRINAGAR, Feb 21: Security forces on Saturday detected an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) placed inside a bag along a roadside in Jammu and Kashmirs Ganderbal district, officials said. The suspected explosive was found at Gulab Sheikh Mohalla near Kohestan Colony in the Safapora area during routine checks, prompting an immediate security alert in the locality. [] The post J&K: Suspected IED Recovered in Ganderbal appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 12:30 pm

Five Injured in Road Accident on Banihal Highway

SRINAGAR: Five persons sustained injuries after a private car met with an accident near Railway Chowk in Banihal area of Ramban district on Saturday. Sources said the vehicle bearing registration number UP20CY5823 was travelling from Jammu towards Srinagar when the driver reportedly lost control near the busy highway junction, leading to the mishap. Soon after []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 12:17 pm

CGHS Facilities Extended To All Ladakh Pensioners, Cut-Off Date Removed

Leh, Feb 21: The Government of India has extended Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) facilities to all pensioners of the Union Territory of Ladakh, removing the earlier cut-off date linked to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019. The post CGHS Facilities Extended To All Ladakh Pensioners, Cut-Off Date Removed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 12:12 pm

Citizen education key to long-term cybersecurity: CJI Surya Kant

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India, Justice Suryakant has said that ensuring long-term cybersecurity requires treating citizen education as an essential component. He was addressing the inaugural session of a three-day National Conference on Cyber Security-Awareness, Protection and Inclusive Access to Justice held at the Rajasthan International Centre in Jaipur yesterday evening. Justice Suryakant [] The post Citizen education key to long-term cybersecurity: CJI Surya Kant appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 12:11 pm

Congress Claims US Trade Deal Has Become An Ordeal, Rahul Says PM Compromised

New Delhi, Feb 21: After the US Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trumps global tariffs, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of being compromised, saying his betrayal in the India-US interim trade deal stood exposed. The Congress alleged that the trade deal had become an ordeal for the country subjected to by the prime ministers desperation and surrender. The PM is compromised. His betrayal now stands exposed. He cant renegotiate. He will surrender again, Gandhi said [] The post Congress Claims US Trade Deal Has Become An Ordeal, Rahul Says PM Compromised appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 12:06 pm

Security Forces Detect IED Placed On Roadside In Jammu And Kashmirs Ganderbal

SRINAGAR, Feb 21: Security forces on Saturday detected an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Jammu and Kashmirs Ganderbal district, officials said. The IED was kept inside a bag and placed on the roadside at Gulab Sheikh Mohalla near Kohestan Colony in the districts Safapora area, they said. Officials said a bomb disposal squad has been called to the spot. Further details are awaited. The post Security Forces Detect IED Placed On Roadside In Jammu And Kashmirs Ganderbal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 11:58 am

Terror Threat: Security Intensified at Delhis Key Religious, Heritage Sites

New Delhi, Feb 21: Security has been intensified across key religious and heritage locations in Delhi, including areas around the Red Fort and parts of Chandni Chowk, following intelligence inputs indicating a possible terror threat, officials said on Saturday. Security agencies issued an alert over a suspected explosion threat near the Red Fort, a [] The post Terror Threat: Security Intensified at Delhis Key Religious, Heritage Sites appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 11:49 am

J&K: 7 CRPF Personnel Injured In Srinagar Road Accident

Srinagar: Seven personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were injured in a road accident in the Dagpora area of Srinagar on Saturday, officials said. Officials said that the the accident occurred at Umar Hair, Dagpora Road in Ahmad Nagar when the driver of a BP bunker vehicle lost control, causing the vehicle [] The post J&K: 7 CRPF Personnel Injured In Srinagar Road Accident appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Feb 2026 11:37 am

9 CRPF men injured as vehicle falls into canal in Srinagar

Srinagar: At least nine CRPF personnel were injured on Saturday after a bunker vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a canal in the Dagpora area of Soura, Srinagar, officials said. An official said that the accident occurred near Umar Hair on Dagpora Road in Ahmad Nagar when the driver lost control of the []

Kashmir Reader 21 Feb 2026 11:30 am

Terror Threat: Security Heightened Near Key Religious, Heritage Sites In Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 21: Security was tightened across key religious and heritage sites in Delhi on Saturday, including areas around the Red Fort and parts of Chandni Chowk, following intelligence inputs suggesting a possible terror threat, an official said. Security agencies issued an alert on a possible explosion threat near Red Fort, a major tourist destination and high-security zone, after Central intelligence agencies indicated that Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has allegedly kept prominent religious places in India on its [] The post Terror Threat: Security Heightened Near Key Religious, Heritage Sites In Delhi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 11:17 am

Kashmirs Soap Suds

Increased hygiene awareness and demand for chemical-free products encourage new women-led ventures, retail outlets and online sales, revitalising Kashmirs small but growing soap industry, reports Tehreem Parviaz For more than the last three decades, Haji Abdul Rashid, 63, has been running his shop, Modern Kashmiri Soap, from Shehr-e-Khaas near Khanqah. A dedicated, skilled man, he []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 11:08 am

Seven CRPF Personnel Injured in Srinagar Road Accident

SRINAGAR: Seven personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were injured in a road accident in the Dagpora area of Srinagar on Saturday, officials said. The accident occurred at Umar Hair on Dagpora Road in Ahmad Nagar when the driver of a BP bunker vehicle lost control, causing it to skid off the road []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 10:59 am

EMPLOYMENT (21-02-2026)

JOB VACANCY IN SHANKER INDUSTRIES SAMBA NAME OF POSTS POSTS 1 1. A SENIOR ACCOUNTANT ROLE REQUIRING 10 YEARS+ OF EXPERIENCE, LEADING TEAMS, FOCUSING ON RESPONSIBILITIES LIKE MANAGING COMPLEX RECONCILIATIONS, AND MENTORING JUNIOR STAFF. INTERVIEW DATE AND TIME DATE 20/02/2026 & 21/02/2026 INTERVIEW TIME 3:00 PM TO 5:00 PM AT I.G.C PHASE-1 SAMBA INTERESTED CANDIDATES MAY COME ALONG WITH RESUME/CV FOR MORE DETAILS:- SHANKER INDUSTRIES -1, SIDCO SAMBA 9906044364, EMAIL: SAHIL17SHARMA@GMAIL.COM JOB VACANCY IN SHANKER PLASTIC JAMMU NAME OF POSTS [] The post EMPLOYMENT (21-02-2026) appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 10:59 am

J&K | Seven CRPF Personnel Injured In Road Accident In Srinagar

Srinagar, Feb 21: Seven personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were injured in a road accident in the Dagpora area of Srinagar on Saturday, officials said. Officials said that the the accident occurred at Umar Hair, Dagpora Road in Ahmad Nagar when the driver of a BP bunker vehicle lost control, causing the vehicle to skid off the road and plunge into a water canal. They said injured personnel were shifted to Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), [] The post J&K | Seven CRPF Personnel Injured In Road Accident In Srinagar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 10:55 am

India Faces Lower Tariff Rate Of 10% As Trump Issues Proclamation On New Levies

NEW YORK/WASHINGTON, Feb 21: India now faces a lower tariff rate of 10 per cent, down from 18 per cent, after US President Donald Trump announced a new global levy on items imported into America in the wake of the Supreme Court verdict against his sweeping tariffs. In a proclamation titled Imposing a Temporary Import Surcharge to Address Fundamental International Payments Problems, Trump said he is imposing, for a period of 150 days, a temporary import surcharge of 10 per [] The post India Faces Lower Tariff Rate Of 10% As Trump Issues Proclamation On New Levies appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 10:43 am

Jammu Kashmir: Unsafe Samples Rise as Enforcement Figures Raise Questions

SRINAGAR: Food adulteration and enforcement gaps came under discussion in the Assembly as the government laid detailed data on food sampling, prosecutions, laboratory infrastructure and border surveillance mechanisms in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. According to the figures tabled, a total of 9,046 food samples were lifted during 202324, of which 34 were []

KashmirLife 21 Feb 2026 9:59 am

Harley-Davidson X440T launched at RIDGES showroom in Jammu

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 20: Jamkash Biking Private Limited today launched the much-awaited Harley-Davidson X440T at the RIDGES Harley-Davidson showroom located on NH-1 Bye Pass, opposite Channi Himmat, marking a significant addition to the regions premium motorcycle segment. RIDGES Harley-Davidson, the only authorized Harley legacy dealership in the region, hosted the grand unveiling in the presence of members of the Harley Owners Group (HOG) and biking enthusiasts. The event reflected the brands signature spirit of power, freedom and brotherhood, while [] The post Harley-Davidson X440T launched at RIDGES showroom in Jammu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 5:30 am

CITU delegation meets Dy CM, raises construction workers issues

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 20: A deputation of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) today met the Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir and highlighted several long-pending demands concerning construction workers across the Union Territory. The deputation, led by CITU State president and MLA M Y Tarigami, submitted a detailed memorandum seeking early disposal of the pending amendment case of the Kashmir Constructional Workers Union, representation of CITU in the J&K Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Welfare [] The post CITU delegation meets Dy CM, raises construction workers issues appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 5:29 am

Lakhpati Didi: From Milestone to Movement

Mohammad Aijaz Asad As Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a defining civilisational moment by shifting his office from South Block to Seva Teerth, among the very first files he signed was one doubling the national target of Lakhpati Didis to 6.0 crores. In that quiet yet powerful administrative act lay a profound message i.e Indias growth story will be anchored not merely in infrastructure, but in the economic awakening of its women. For Jammu & Kashmir, this national resolve carries [] The post Lakhpati Didi: From Milestone to Movement appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:59 am

AI Impact Expo 2026- Global AI Order from Delhi

Prof D Mukherjee mukhopadhyay.dinabandhu@gmail.com The India AI Impact Expo 2026, held from 16-20 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, was one of Indias most significant gatherings on artificial intelligence in recent years. Organized by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology with industry and research partners, it was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who served as chief host and outlined Indias vision for a human-centric AI future. The Expo brought together ministers, global technology leaders, researchers, startup [] The post AI Impact Expo 2026- Global AI Order from Delhi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:55 am

Updated seniority list of Library Assistant(s), Laboratory Assistant(s) and MTS working in School Education Department, District Cadre Ramban as on 01-01-2026

Govt. of Jammu & Kashmir OFFICE OF THE CHIEF EDUCATION OFFICER RAMBAN New District Administrative Complex, Maitra, Ramban (J&K) Subject: Updated seniority list of Library Assistant(s), Laboratory Assistant(s) and MTS working in School Education Department, District Cadre Ramban as on 01-01-2026. Ref: 1. Govt. Order No: SRO-375 of 2010 Dated: 21-10-2010. Final /Updated Seniority List of Lib. Asstt./Lab. Asstt/ MTS issued vide Order No: 06-CEORBN of 2025 Dated: 11-02-2025. ORDER No. 04CEO RBN_OF 2026 DATED:_19-02-2026 Whereas, vide this office order [] The post Updated seniority list of Library Assistant(s), Laboratory Assistant(s) and MTS working in School Education Department, District Cadre Ramban as on 01-01-2026 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:50 am

A plea for SRO- 43 Implementation

Commodore D S Sodhi (Retd.) Sodhidalbir7777@gmail.com The Government of Jammu and Kashmir came up with an order on 22 Feb 1994 for Appointment on Compassionate grounds under SRO- 43. This was done keeping in mind the deaths of Government servants who die in harness whilst in service. The scheme also covered the cases of families affected due to militancy. A great initiative taken to give some solace to the effected families. The intent of the Government was made very clear [] The post A plea for SRO- 43 Implementation appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:45 am

Omar snubs NC MLA, says if he cant face people, will make arrangements that he doesnt contest next time

Govt to give 30,000 jobs during 2026 *No increase in electricity tariff since December 2023 Sanjeev Pargal JAMMU, Feb 20: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today snubbed National Conference MLA from Bijbehara Dr Basheer Ahmed Veeri indirectly saying that he shouldnt have contested the elections if he cant face the people and assured that next time (elections) this arrangement can also be made. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Omar denied that there has been any hike in the power [] The post Omar snubs NC MLA, says if he cant face people, will make arrangements that he doesnt contest next time appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:37 am

CEOs, founders of 16 AI, deeptech startups present ideas to Modi

Potential of harnessing AI in Agri, Edu discussed NEW DELHI, Feb 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday discussed the potential of harnessing artificial intelligence technology in various sectors like agriculture, environmental protection, and promoting higher education in mother tongue, among others, with CEOs of AI and deeptech startups. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp CEOs and founders of 16 AI and deeptech startups presented their ideas and work at a roundtable meeting with the Prime Minister. Modi underscored [] The post CEOs, founders of 16 AI, deeptech startups present ideas to Modi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:34 am

Financial irregularities surface in J&K Bank; probe flags massive PAN non-linkage

Loopholes in digital payments detected *Student accounts used as financial channels Mohinder Verma JAMMU, Feb 20: A series of high-level investigations into banking compliance have uncovered financial irregularities in Jammu and Kashmir Bank, exposing operation of high-value accounts without linkage to Permanent Account Numbers (PAN), raising concerns over tax evasion, proxy banking networks and potential money laundering. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp According to sources, two detailed enquiry reports prepared during 2025 reveal systemic failures in Know Your [] The post Financial irregularities surface in J&K Bank; probe flags massive PAN non-linkage appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:33 am

NMC approves 24 new super-specialty PG seats for J&K Medical Colleges

*Major boost to advanced healthcare training Govind Sharma JAMMU, Feb 20: In a significant boost to super-specialty medical education and tertiary healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has approved new and enhanced intake for several DM and MCh courses in the Union Territory for the academic session 2025-26, paving the way for the training of more highly specialized doctors within the region and reducing dependence on institutions outside the UT. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on [] The post NMC approves 24 new super-specialty PG seats for J&K Medical Colleges appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:32 am

BJP MLAs, Minister Satish engage in heated verbal spat over drug trade allegations

Bivek Mathur JAMMU, Feb 20: The Legislative Assembly today witnessed heated exchanges between BJP legislators and Minister Satish Sharma after the latter claimed that several political families and some police personnel in Jammu and Kashmir are involved in the drug trade. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The issue erupted when the Minister was replying to the discussion on demands for grants of the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science & Technology, Information Technology, Youth Services & [] The post BJP MLAs, Minister Satish engage in heated verbal spat over drug trade allegations appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:31 am

Artificial Intelligence can substitute everything, but cant substitute integrity: Dr Jitendra

Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Feb 20: Artificial Intelligence (AI) can substitute everything on this planet, but it cannot substitute integrity. Artificial Intelligence can transform systems, improve efficiency and expand access, but it cannot replace human integrity. With this powerful assertion, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; Earth Sciences; and Minister of State in PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh delivered the keynote address at the AI Impact Summit 2026 India [] The post Artificial Intelligence can substitute everything, but cant substitute integrity: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:30 am

NCs Lone clashes with PDPs Muntazir during debate

Narinder shows concern over absence of Minister Avtar Bhat JAMMU, Feb 20: MLA Sumbal Sonawari constituency, Hilal Akbar Lone clashed with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) MLA from Budgam, Syed Aga Muntazir Mehdi during a debate on Grants of Transport, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, Sports and Information Technology when the letter referred to a delegation from Sumbal area had approached him and raised an issue about a bank Branch. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp As Aga [] The post NCs Lone clashes with PDPs Muntazir during debate appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:30 am

Australia beat Oman by 9 wickets to end T20 World Cup on winning note

Pallekele, Feb 20: Already out of Super Eights contention, Australia beat Oman by nine wickets in their inconsequential final group clash of the T20 World Cup here on Friday. Captain Mitchell Marsh remained unbeaten on 64 off 33 balls while his opening partner Travis Head made 32 as Australia chased down the modest target of 105 with 62 balls to spare, reaching 108 for one in 9.4 overs. Earlier, Australias bowlers underlined their experience with a disciplined display, strangling Omans [] The post Australia beat Oman by 9 wickets to end T20 World Cup on winning note appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:30 am

7.85 cr tourists visited J&K during 2023-25

IMD plans hyper-local weather forecasting system Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Government today said that the Union Territory has witnessed a sharp surge in tourist arrivals in the post-2019 period, with over 7.85 crore tourists visiting between 2023 and 2025, compared to 4.76 crore visitors during 2016-18. Replying to a question by NC MLA Javid Hassan Baig in written form in the Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who heads the tourism department, detailed destination-wise tourist [] The post 7.85 cr tourists visited J&K during 2023-25 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:30 am

Job of law enforcement agencies to check drug smuggling: Govt

MLAs of various parties voice concern Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 20: Several legislators drawn from different political parties today voiced concern over drug menace in Jammu and Kashmir and called for stringent laws against the accused even as the Government asserted that it was job of law enforcement agencies to check smuggling of drugs. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp A virtual debate ensured in the Assembly during clubbed question of Pirzada Farooq Ahmed Shah, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Ghulam [] The post Job of law enforcement agencies to check drug smuggling: Govt appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:29 am

India participated as observer at inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington

NEW DELHI, Feb 20: India participated as an observer at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace held in Washington DC on Thursday, the MEA spokesperson said today, declining to confirm whether New Delhi plans to formally join the Trump-led initiative. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, to repeated questions on whether India plans to formally join the Board of Peace, said: India attended the Board of Peace meeting held in Washington DC as an observer. India has [] The post India participated as observer at inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:29 am

US economy grows at 1.4 per cent rate in the fourth quarter, slower than economists expected

WASHINGTON, Feb 20: Americas gross domestic product the nations output of goods and services increased at an 1.4 per cent annual rate in the fourth quarter, the Commerce Department reported Friday, down from 4.4 per cent in the July-September quarter and 3.8 per cent in the quarter before that. A downturn in government and consumer spending contributed to the slowdown in fourth-quarter growth, the government said. Consumer spending rose just 2.2 per cent, a significant slowdown from the [] The post US economy grows at 1.4 per cent rate in the fourth quarter, slower than economists expected appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:29 am

Army Commander chairs Joint Control Centre meeting

Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Feb 20: Lt. Gen. Pratik Sharma, Army Commander, Northern Command (NC), chaired a Joint Control Centre meeting at Srinagar to review the prevailing security situation and enhance operational synergy among security agencies. The meeting was attended by senior Army leadership along with officials from J&K Police, Central Reserve Police Force, Border Security Force and other key stakeholders. During deliberations, detailed discussions were held on strengthening real-time intelligence fusion and ensuring seamless inter-agency coordination. Emphasis was laid on [] The post Army Commander chairs Joint Control Centre meeting appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Feb 2026 4:29 am