Jammu & kashmir

BJPs growth rooted in nationalism, discipline, public service: Sat Sharma

Sunil, Koul, Billawaria address training camps Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 17: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Jammu & Kashmir, organized various district-level training camps under the ongoing Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Prashikshan Mahabhiyan across different districts to strengthen the organizational structure and ideologically empower party workers. J&K BJP president and Rajya Sabha MP, Sat Sharma, accompanied by Leader of the Opposition in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, MLA Shagun Parihar, and district president, Ravi Parihar participated in the [] The post BJPs growth rooted in nationalism, discipline, public service: Sat Sharma appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Karra slams Centre for assault on public rights, Statehood delay

*Voter deletion turned WB elections in favour of BJP: Mir Excelsior Correspondent LOLAB, May 17: The JKPCC president Tariq Hameed Karra today said that Congress played a key role in the overall development of border residents while leaving no room for any sort of discrimination with the people living in Jammu and Kashmir. The present dispensation at Centre has done nothing for the people except making false promises aiming to mislead people on every count. The approach of the BJP [] The post Karra slams Centre for assault on public rights, Statehood delay appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rana launches Rs 57.98 cr development projects in remote, border villages of Mendhar

Excelsior Correspondent POONCH, May 17: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today laid the foundation for a series of major development projects worth Rs 57.98 crore in Mendhar, aimed at strengthening the drinking water supply, irrigation infrastructure and rural connectivity across several remote and border villages. The projects included 20 Water Supply Schemes under the UT CAPEX programme with a cumulative cost of Rs 51.84 crore. These schemes are designed to provide [] The post Rana launches Rs 57.98 cr development projects in remote, border villages of Mendhar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Art 370 abrogation played vital role in J&Ks development: Jugal Kishore

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 17: MP, Jammu Poonch Lok Sabha constituency, Jugal Kishore Sharma highlighted the transformative changes and rapid development in Jammu & Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A. Addressing the concluding session of two-day workshop Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Prashikshan Mahaabhiyan by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Jammu South Unit at Patnitop in Udhampur district today, he emphasized the implementation of mega development projects under the leadership of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. He stated [] The post Art 370 abrogation played vital role in J&Ks development: Jugal Kishore appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rs 60 cr worth encroached land retrieved, 33 structures razed

Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyaan Excelsior Correspondent SAMBA, May 17: In a major crackdown on drug network by Samba police, 50 kanals of land worth Rs 60 crore which was encroached by them has been retrieved while 33 illegal structures raised by them have been demolished in Balole Khad area near SIDCO, Bari Brahmana. The demolition drive was jointly carried by Samba police under the overall supervision of SSP Samba, Anuj Kumar and district administration at identified drugs hotspot Balole Khad [] The post Rs 60 cr worth encroached land retrieved, 33 structures razed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Vehicle plunges into Nallah, driver killed

Excelsior Correspondent RAMBAN, May 17: A truck veered off the road and rolled down into a Nallah near Nachlana area of Banihal on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway this morning. According to Police, information was received at Police Station Banihal regarding an accident involving a truck bearing registration number HR58C-1547 moving from Jammu to Srinagar and reportedly being driven in rash and negligent manner. Click here to watch video Officials said that at around 8:10 am, the truck plunged into a Nallah [] The post Vehicle plunges into Nallah, driver killed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Court rejects supplementary complaint, further investigation in NDPS case

Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 17: A local court here said that supplementary complaint and further investigation therein during pendency of trial of the case is not permissible without prior permission of the court and dismissed the proceedings against the co-accused involved in drug trafficking. The facts of the case is that after presentation of basic complaint by NCB before Principal Sessions Judge Samba against the accused was chargesheeted by the court on October 2022 for commission of offence under Narcotic [] The post Court rejects supplementary complaint, further investigation in NDPS case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

15 vehicles seized for illegal mining

Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 17: The police today seized 15 vehicles involved in the unauthorised extraction and transportation of minerals in Shopian and Pulwama districts. A spokesperson said that in Shopian, police seized 10 tractors and two tippers involved in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals from Imamsahib and Keegam areas. During routine patrolling, a police team from Police Station Imamsahib intercepted and seized seven tractors and two tippers at different locations for transporting minerals without valid royalty documents. In [] The post 15 vehicles seized for illegal mining appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

3 persons booked under Arms Act

Excelsior Correspondent KATRA, May 17: Katra Police arrested three persons under Arms Act and recovered a sharp edged weapon from their possession. According to Police, a naka was laid at Nangal Road, Katra and during checking, a Maruti Eeco vehicle bearing registration number JK20C-1653 was stopped for inspection. During the search of the vehicle, one sharp-edged toka was recovered from possession of the occupants. The driver of the vehicle identified himself as Chain Singh, son of Krishan Dass, resident of [] The post 3 persons booked under Arms Act appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

ABGP honours individuals, organizations for promoting consumer awareness

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 17: Akhil Bhartiya Grahak Panchayat (ABGP), Jammu prant, organized a grand ceremony at Seva Bharti Sabhagar, Ved Mandir, Jammu, to acknowledge the contribution of individuals and organizations associated with consumer awareness and consumer protection initiatives through advertisements in the ABGP annual magazine Samarika. The programme witnessed participation of social workers, business representatives and members of the organization. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Rajeev Bhardwaj, prant sangathan mantri, Jammu. During the event, several distinguished [] The post ABGP honours individuals, organizations for promoting consumer awareness appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Teachers unions form JAC over TET issue

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 17: A joint meeting of various teachers and employees organizations was held today at Hari Singh Park, Jammu, to deliberate upon issues concerning the teaching fraternity, particularly the TET issue and the future course of action regarding protection of teachers appointed up to 30-10-2019. The meeting witnessed participation from several prominent organizations, including Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF), All Teachers Association J&K (ATAJK), United School Teachers Association (USTA), Jammu and Kashmir Rehbar-e-Taleem Teachers Forum (JKRETTF), [] The post Teachers unions form JAC over TET issue appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

MLA, ADC listen public grievances

Excelsior Correspondent BHADERWAH, May 17: A public grievance redressal camp was organized here today and was attended by MLA Bhaderwah, Daleep Singh Parihar and Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Bhaderwah, Sunil Kumar Bhutyal. Among others present in the camp were DFO Bhaderwah, Tehsildars of Bhaderwah and Bhalla, SDPO Bhaderwah, Executive Officer of Municipal Committee Bhaderwah, CDPO Bhaderwah, BMO Bhaderwah, SHO Bhaderwah, officers from BDA, Assistant Executive Engineers and various district and sectoral officers. A large number of public representatives and local [] The post MLA, ADC listen public grievances appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Power crisis begins in Jammu as lower discharge in rivers hits generation

*J&K to procure addl power to meet shortfall: MD Gopal Sharma JAMMU, May 17: With the hot weather conditions on rise in Jammu, the power crisis has begun in the winter capital and other major towns like, Kathua and Samba, as the water discharge in Chenab and other major rivers has gone down, affecting power generation in the hydro-electric power projects, forcing the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to procure additional electricity supply from the Centre. The sudden breakdown [] The post Power crisis begins in Jammu as lower discharge in rivers hits generation appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Matra Shakti is upholding civilisational moorings: ABISY

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 17: A one day national seminar on the topic Contribution of Women in Viksit Bharat 2047 : A Historical Perspective was organized by Bhartiya Itihas Sankalan Samiti, Jammu Kashmir Ladakh Prant in collaboration with Centre for Comparative Religion & Civilisation, Central University of Jammu at Keshav Bhawan, Amphalla, here , today. The seminar was organized to highlight the contribution of women in the nation building and upholding the civilizational moorings of Bharat. On this occasion Dr.Balmukund [] The post Matra Shakti is upholding civilisational moorings: ABISY appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Police busts inter-district tower battery theft racket, several arrested

Excelsior Correspondent RAMBAN, May 17: Ramban Police today solved a major theft case involving the stealing of tower batteries from a telecom site in Batote, arresting multiple accused allegedly linked to an organised inter-district racket. The case was registered at Police Station Batote under FIR No. 26/2026 under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), following a complaint by Vivek Raina, Cluster Head of Indus Towers Limited. The complaint reported the theft of 48 tower batteries, valued at approximately [] The post Police busts inter-district tower battery theft racket, several arrested appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

68 FIRs registered, 89 drug peddlers held due to grassroot intelligence network

990 Samitis ignite peoples war against drugs in Jammu *Over 35 lakh citizens join 72,243 awareness progs Mohinder Verma JAMMU, May 17: In an unprecedented grassroot mobilisation against drug abuse, District Jammu has transformed its anti-narcotics campaign into a powerful peoples movement through the constitution of 990 Nasha Nigrani Samitis across villages and urban wards under the ongoing 100-day Nasha Mukt Abhiyan and this initiative has led to registration of 68 FIRs, arrest of 89 drug peddlers and seizure of [] The post 68 FIRs registered, 89 drug peddlers held due to grassroot intelligence network appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Asian gold medalist Yasser seeks Govt aid

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, May 17: After winning the Asian U-15 Boxing Gold medal recently, Mohammed Yasser from Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri district has appealed to the Government for sponsorship, prize money and residential support to continue his sporting journey and prepare for upcoming International competitions, including the Olympics. He has also sought urgent financial assistance to sustain his training, education and basic livelihood needs. Yasser, who works as a cook in a paying guest accommodation in Rajouri, has created [] The post Asian gold medalist Yasser seeks Govt aid appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

NC Betrayed People Again: AIP

RK News Service Srinagar, May 17: Awami Ittehad Party on Saturday held a workers convention in Beerwah constituency, where party leaders criticised the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference and demanded the inclusion of alcohol under the ongoing anti-drug campaign in Jammu and Kashmir. The convention, held at Sail Beerwah, was presided over by AIP General Secretary and Beerwah constituency in-charge Nazir Ahmad Khan and attended by party workers and delegates from the area. Addressing the gathering, Nazir Ahmad Khan alleged that the National Conference had once again betrayed the people and said the public should question why the same political parties continued to return to power despite widespread dissatisfaction. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserved transparent and accountable leadership and urged voters to bring change through their political choices. Referring to the recent Rathsun incident, Khan expressed concern over the impact of restrictions on local tractor owners and labourers dependent on the Sukhnag stream for livelihood. He urged the administration to adopt a balanced approach that protects both the environment and the economic interests of local residents. The AIP leader also welcomed the administrations anti-drug campaign and appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to include alcohol in the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan. He said alcohol consumption was contributing to social degradation and should also be addressed as part of the anti-addiction drive. Khan further demanded the release of AIP president and MP Engineer Rashid, saying he had remained committed to public interests despite being in jail. He also criticised the delimitation process, calling it politically motivated, and announced that AIP would intensify its grassroots outreach across Beerwah constituency in the coming days.

Article 370 Abrogation Opened New Era in J&K: BJP

RK News Service Paddar, May 17: Leader of Opposition in the J&K Assembly, Sunil Sharma, addressed a session of the BJPs training workshop organized under the Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Prashikshan Mahabhiyan of District Kishtwar and highlighted the historic transformation witnessed in Jammu & Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Addressing party workers and office bearers, Sunil Sharma said that the removal of Article 370 ended decades of discrimination, separatism, and political instability, paving the way for peace, development, and equal opportunities for the people of Jammu & Kashmir. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, J&K has witnessed unprecedented infrastructural growth, strengthened democratic institutions, improved transparency in governance, and accelerated welfare outreach to the last person in society. Sharma emphasized that the BJP cadre must remain connected with the people and effectively communicate the achievements and policies of the government at the grassroots level. He also asked party workers to strengthen the organization by working with dedication, discipline, and commitment to the ideology of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay. Sunil Sharma further stated that the training workshops are aimed at ideologically empowering party workers and equipping them with organizational skills to serve society more effectively. Earlier, he also inaugurated an exhibition before the start of the Prashikshan camp.

Congress Will Continue Fight for Restoration of Statehood: Karra

RK News Service Kupwara, May 17: Tariq Hameed Karra on Saturday said the Indian National Congress would continue its struggle for restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, accusing the Centre of adopting insensitive and unresponsive policies towards the people of the Union Territory. Karra made the remarks while addressing a day-long political convention of party workers in the border area of Lolab in north Kashmirs Kupwara district. He said the Centres decision to downgrade the erstwhile state into two Union Territories after the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A had hurt the sentiments and rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Congress party will continue to fight vigorously for the protection of peoples rights and restoration of complete statehood to J&K, Karra said, adding that the partys Hamari Riyasat Hamara Haq campaign would continue until statehood is restored. The JKPCC president alleged that Jammu and Kashmir was facing economic and developmental challenges, including rising unemployment, after the constitutional changes of August 2019. He also stressed the importance of strengthening the party at the grassroots level and asked party workers to actively participate in the second phase of the Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan (SSA). Leader of Congress Legislature Party Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who also addressed the convention, said Congress had played a major role in nation-building and accused the BJP-led government of misleading people on issues of development and employment. Mir alleged that people across the country were facing rising inflation, taxes and unemployment, while genuine public concerns remained unaddressed. MLA Irfan Hafeez Lone said development and public welfare had always remained the priority of the Congress party and urged workers to continue outreach efforts at the grassroots level. Several senior Congress leaders and workers from Kupwara district attended the convention.

Mirwaiz Urges Revival of Mosques as Centres of Social Reform

Says places of worship must guide society towards moral revival and protection of values RK News Service Srinagar, May 17: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Sunday said mosques, khanqahs and imambaras should play a greater role in guiding society and addressing growing moral, social and cultural challenges confronting the people. Addressing a Seerat Conference organised by Idarah Auqaf Gousia at Sarai Bala in Amira Kadal, the Mirwaiz said religious institutions have historically served not only as places of worship but also as centres of learning, reform and social transformation. He said issues such as moral decline, domestic discord, increasing materialism and weakening social bonds required collective introspection and sustained engagement from society. Our mosques, khanqahs and imambaras must become centres for initiating positive change and reform within society. They should guide the younger generation, spread awareness, strengthen moral values and help address the problems affecting our people, he said. Mirwaiz added that Kashmirs spiritual institutions had long promoted values of coexistence, tolerance and social responsibility and stressed the need to preserve the regions religious identity, culture, language and spiritual heritage. Referring to the teachings of the Holy Prophet (SAW), he said Seerat-un-Nabi (SAW) should not remain confined to speeches and gatherings but must be reflected in individual conduct and collective social behaviour. He said the Prophet (SAW) established a society based on justice, compassion, honesty and service to humanity, and urged people to follow those principles in contemporary life.

Govt Committed to Protecting J&Ks Spiritual Heritage: Sharma

Visits religious shrines; reviews sports infra in Anantnag RK News Service SRINAGAR, May 17: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma emphasized that the government remains committed towards safeguarding and promoting the unique cultural and spiritual heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. The Minister on Sunday attended the inauguration ceremony of the sacred Adhikmas/Banumas/Purushotam Maas-Kumbh 2026 at the historic Mattan Temple and highlighted the importance of preserving the centuries-old traditions of communal harmony, brotherhood and coexistence in Jammu and Kashmir. The Minister inaugurated the religious congregation amid the presence of devotees, religious scholars, community representatives and local residents. Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma said that Jammu and Kashmir has always been known for its rich spiritual and cultural legacy where people from different faiths have lived together in harmony and mutual respect for generations. He said that such religious and cultural events serve as a strong reminder of the regions composite culture and play a vital role in strengthening the social unity and fostering mutual understanding among communities. Extending his greetings to the devotees and participants attending the sacred event, the Minister wished for peaceful and successful celebrations and prayed for lasting peace, prosperity and wellbeing of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Later, Satish Sharma visited Gurudwara Mattan, where he paid obeisance and interacted with members of the Sikh community. He reiterated the governments resolve towards ensuring equal respect and support for all religious institutions and communities across Jammu and Kashmir. Subsequently, the Minister paid obeisance at the revered Aishmuqam Shrine and prayed for peace, prosperity and communal harmony in the region. During the visit, he interacted with the devotees and local residents and described the shrine as a symbol of Kashmirs spiritual heritage and centuries-old traditions of brotherhood and inclusiveness.

Police Conduct Major Anti-Narcotics CASOs Across Anantnag

RK News Service Anantnag, May 17: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Saturday launched large-scale Narco Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) at 20 locations across Anantnag district as part of its intensified crackdown on drug trafficking and the narcotics network. Police said the simultaneous operations were carried out by specially constituted teams under the supervision of senior officers based on specific intelligence inputs and investigations into NDPS cases. K9 squads were also deployed during the searches to enhance the effectiveness of the operation. The raids targeted suspected hideouts, transit points and locations linked to alleged drug peddlers, kingpins and their associates. Officials said the district-wide operation is part of the police strategy to dismantle the entire narcotics ecosystem by targeting not only drug peddlers but also facilitators, financiers and others connected with the illegal trade. Police reiterated its commitment to eradicating the drug menace and appealed to the public to cooperate by sharing credible information related to narcotics activities.

Staff Shortage Hits Trals Chandrigam Health Centre

Younus Rashid Pulwama, May 17: Residents of Chandrigam village in Tral have alleged that the New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) Chandrigam is functioning without adequate staff and basic healthcare facilities, causing inconvenience to patients. Locals said the health facility was upgraded to an NTPHC in 2014, but no new building was constructed and no additional staff was deployed as required for such a facility. A representation submitted by the Village Welfare Committee Chandrigam to the Block Medical Officer (BMO) Tral stated that the centre has been functioning without a pharmacist since the retirement of the previously posted official in April 2025. The committee also alleged that although a doctor is officially posted at the centre, the doctor has been directed to perform duties elsewhere, affecting healthcare delivery at the facility. They upgraded the facility to an NTPHC in 2014, but no new building was constructed and no staff as required for an NTPHC was deployed here, alleged Aga Ayash, a local resident. He said a pharmacist had been working at the centre until his retirement last year, after which no replacement was posted. By name it is an NTPHC, but in reality it functions merely as an immunization centre. Hardly any facility is available here and no concrete action has been taken for our convenience. We, the residents, continue to suffer due to the lack of healthcare services, he added. Locals urged the government and health authorities to strengthen the facility and ensure adequate staff for the convenience of the public. Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Pulwama Dr Tahmeena Jameel said the local BMO has all details regarding the facility. However, she said the department is facing a shortage of pharmacists due to retirements. Pharmacists who are retiring, we cannot do anything with that. There is a dearth of pharmacists and the hospital may be functional with MTS and FMPHW staff, she said. She added that the NTPHC does not have any sanctioned post for a general physician. NTPHC doesnt have any post for general physician and is a sub-centre type facility mostly meant for immunization and first aid, she added.

Authorities Step Up Preparedness Ahead of Chemists Strike

RK News Service SRINAGAR, MAY 17: In view of the nationwide bandh call given by the All India Organization of Chemists & Druggists (AIOCD) on May 20, 2026, the Drugs & Food Control Organization (DFCO), UT of Jammu & Kashmir has issued a public advisory and precautionary measures to ensure uninterrupted access to essential medicines and safeguard public health during the proposed band call. The nationwide bandh has been called by the AIOCD to highlight grievances related to online sale of medicines and other associated issues and concerns. The Drugs & Food Control Organization, UT of J&K has already sensitized its field machinery and manpower to maintain effective coordination within and outside the department with all stakeholders during the bandh period to ensure that public safety, availability of essential medicines, and maintenance of law and order are not compromised. As a proactive measure, the department has appealed to all stakeholders to adopt necessary precautions during the bandh period. For the general public and consumers, the department has advised patients suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, cardiac ailments, epilepsy, cancer and other serious illnesses to procure their regular medicines in advance for May 20, if not already available with them. The advisory further urges people to arrange emergency medicines including insulin, inhalers, life-saving drugs and paediatric medicines beforehand, wherever necessary. The department has also advised the public to avoid panic buying or unnecessary hoarding of medicines and to purchase medicines only against valid prescriptions. Consumers have been urged to cooperate with pharmacy staff and authorities during the bandh period. In case of any medical emergency, people have been advised to immediately contact nearby hospitals, emergency medical services or government health facilities. The department has also issued precautionary measures for chemists and druggists, directing them to ensure peaceful and lawful participation in the bandh without affecting emergency medical services. Chemists and druggists have been advised to supply essential and life-saving medicines in emergency situations in the larger public interest and refrain from spreading rumours or misinformation through social media or any other platform. Similarly, officers and officials of the Drugs & Food Control Organization, UT of J&K have been directed to closely monitor the availability of essential and life-saving medicines across the Union Territory. They have also been instructed to coordinate with hospitals, emergency pharmacies, wholesalers and district administrations to prevent shortages of critical medicines and maintain continuous communication with chemist associations for peaceful resolution of issues through coordination. The officers have further been directed to submit real-time reports regarding medicine supply to the helpline established at the Head Office and to higher authorities. Meanwhile, police authorities in their respective jurisdictions have been requested to provide necessary support and assistance to the department to uphold public health, patient safety and social harmony during the bandh by preventing forced closure, intimidation, obstruction, unlawful activities, rumour mongering, violence or disturbance of public peace. The advisory has been issued in the larger interest of patient safety and public health.

International Museum Day:Uri Museum Showcases Kashmir Heritage

Idrees Bukhtiyar Srinagar, May 17: As International Museum Day is observed on May 18, the Army is drawing attention to a unique museum established at the historic Kaman Post along the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri offering visitors a rare glimpse into the rich history, culture and traditions of Kashmir. Situated near Aman Setu (Peace Bridge) at the last post on the LoC in Kashmir, the museum has emerged as a major attraction for tourists and history enthusiasts alike. Showcasing an extensive collection of vintage photographs, antique weapons, traditional household items and centuries-old artifacts, the museum reflects the diverse cultural heritage of the region, particularly of the Pahari and Gujjar communities. The museum takes visitors on a journey through Kashmirs past, highlighting the customs, traditions and lifestyles that once shaped life in the border areas. Among the notable exhibits is an 83-year-old Chamre Ka Bag (leather bag), historically used by village heads to collect Lagaan (revenue) during the Maharajas rule. Another prized artifact is an 86-year-old Churra, a traditional weapon once used for hunting and self-defence in remote mountainous areas. One of the major attractions of the museum is an 86-year-old wooden Charkha, reminiscent of the Gandhian era, which was traditionally used for spinning cotton into yarn. The museum also houses ancient utensils, earthen pots and traditional household items that were once an inseparable part of Kashmiri life. Adding to the historical significance is an iron chair believed to be over a century old, which was once used by village heads while conducting local court proceedings. An Army official said the museum was initially located in Uri town but was shifted to Kaman Post three years ago after the Army declared the area a tourist destination to promote border tourism and preserve the cultural legacy of the region. The idea behind shifting the museum to Kaman Post was to make it more accessible to visitors and to showcase the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kashmir at one of the most significant locations along the LoC. The response from tourists has been encouraging, the official said. The official added that the museum not only serves as a repository of historical artifacts but also acts as a bridge connecting people with the regions centuries-old traditions and way of life. A local tourist guide at Kaman Post said the growing popularity of the spot and the museum has significantly boosted border tourism in the region. Earlier, very few tourists would visit these border areas, but now people are eager to see Kaman Post and the museum. Visitors are taking keen interest in the history and culture of Uri. This is creating livelihood opportunities for local guides, transporters and small businesses, the guide said. With increasing tourist footfall at Kaman Post, the museum is steadily becoming an important cultural landmark in Uri, especially for those keen to explore the lesser-known historical narratives of Kashmir.

Fake Summer Vacation Order Circulating on Social Media, Says DSEJ

SRINAGAR: The Directorate of School Education Jammu (DSEJ) on Sunday said that an order circulating on social media regarding the announcement of summer vacations in the Jammu division is fake. In an official clarification, the Directorate of School Education Jammu stated that no such notification has been issued regarding summer vacations and termed the circulated []

Police Seize 15 Vehicles in Crackdown on Illegal Mining in Shopian, Awantipora

SRINAGAR: Police in Jammu and Kashmir seized 15 vehicles involved in alleged illegal extraction and transportation of minerals during separate operations in Shopian and Awantipora, officials said on Sunday. In Shopian district, police seized 10 tractors and two tippers from Imamsahib and Keegam areas during routine patrolling. Officials said a team from Police Station Imamsahib []

Jammu Kashmir Bank Employee from South Kashmir Dies After Fall from Building in Gurugram

SRINAGAR: A Jammu and Kashmir Bank employee from Seer Hamdan in south Kashmirs Anantnag district died after reportedly falling from a building in Gurugram on Sunday, officials and local sources said. Sources identified the deceased as John Aadil Khan, a resident of Seer Hamdan, who was posted at the Jammu and Kashmir Bank branch at []

Authorities Recover 50 Kanals of Encroached Land in Jammu Kashmir District

SRINAGAR: Authorities in Jammu and Kashmirs Samba district retrieved 50 kanals of state land valued at around Rs 60 crore during an anti-encroachment drive conducted at Birpur (Balole Khad) in Bari Brahmana under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyaan, officials said on Sunday. According to officials, the land had earlier been transferred to []

Jammu Kashmir DFCO Issues Advisory Ahead of Nationwide Chemists Bandh on May 20

SRINAGAR: The Drugs and Food Control Organisation (DFCO), Jammu and Kashmir, on Sunday issued a public advisory and precautionary measures ahead of the nationwide bandh called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) on May 20, 2026, to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential medicines and maintain public health services across the Union []

LG Sinha Completes Self-Enumeration as Jammu Kashmir Begins Census 2027 Operations

SRINAGAR: The House Listing and Housing Census operations for Census 2027 commenced in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha completing his self-enumeration at the start of the exercise. According to an official statement, Census 2027 will be Indias first fully digital and paperless census, using mobile-based data collection systems, self-enumeration mechanisms []

Indian Worker Killed, Three Injured in Russia Drone Attack

SRINAGAR: An Indian worker was killed and three others were injured in a drone attack in Russias Moscow region, the Indian Embassy in Russia said on Sunday. One Indian worker has lost his life and three others have been injured in a drone attack in Moscow region earlier today. Embassy officials have visited the location []

19-Year-Old Boy Drowns in North Kashmir

SRINAGAR: A 19-year-old youth drowned while bathing in a pond in the Kandi Khass area of north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Sunday, officials said. An official said that the deceased was identified as Asrarul Haq, 19, a resident of Kandi Khass Kupwara. Officials said the youth drowned while bathing in the pond, resulting in his []

Lieutenant Governor completes his self-enumeration, urges citizens of Jammu Kashmir to self-enumerate their household details and fulfil their civic duty

SRINAGAR, MAY 17: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha completed his self-enumeration today, marking the beginning of the House listing and Housing Census (HLO) operations in the UT of Jammu Kashmir. Lieutenant Governor said that census 2027 assumes historic significance as it is Indias first fully digital and paperless Census integrating advanced digital technologies, mobile-based [] The post Lieutenant Governor completes his self-enumeration, urges citizens of Jammu Kashmir to self-enumerate their household details and fulfil their civic duty appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Dhul Hijjah Moon Sighted in Jammu Kashmir, Eid-ul-Adha on May 27: Grand Mufti

SRINAGAR: The crescent for the holy month of Dhul Hijjah was sighted anywhere in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, Grand Mufti Jammu Kashmir said. Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam Farooqi said that the testimony regarding the sighting of the moon was received from Kargil and parts of Jammu Kashmir. He said that as a result, the month of []

Administrative Secretary Bhanu Prabha Inaugurates Lhachos Model School at Ney

Leh, May 17, 2026: Administrative Secretary, School Education Department, Ms. Bhanu Prabha today inaugurated the newly upgraded Lhachos Model School at Ney village in Leh district, marking a significant milestone in strengthening rural education infrastructure in Ladakh. The inauguration ceremony witnessed enthusiastic participation from villagers, students, parents, and officials of the Education Department. The Secretary [] The post Administrative Secretary Bhanu Prabha Inaugurates Lhachos Model School at Ney appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Mainstreaming Of J&K Led To Aspirational Surge Among Women: Dr Jitendra

SRINAGAR, May 17 : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today said that the mainstreaming of Jammu & Kashmir under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has led to a visible aspirational surge among women, marked by rising self-confidence, growing competitiveness and expanding leadership across sectors. The Minister said, women from Jammu & Kashmir are increasingly emerging as [] The post Mainstreaming Of J&K Led To Aspirational Surge Among Women: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Youth Drowns In Strong Currents At Rajouri Waterfall, Body Recovered After Over 24-Hour Search

Rajouri/Jammu May 17: A young man drowned after he was swept away by strong currents while taking a bath in a natural waterfall in Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri district, while two others were rescued from the rapids, officials said on Sunday. Officials said the body of the deceased was retrieved on Sunday afternoon on the second day of the search and rescue operation along the stream near Khorinar village in Darhal area. The deceased was identified as Mohammad Maroof, [] The post Youth Drowns In Strong Currents At Rajouri Waterfall, Body Recovered After Over 24-Hour Search appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

1 dead, 9 missing after pickup truck falls off bridge in southern China

BEIJING, May 17: One worker died and nine remain missing after a pickup truck fell off a bridge in southwest China on Saturday, state media reported. The truck, carrying a total of 15 people, was transporting workers to a sweet potato farm in the southern Guangxi region. Five people were rescued, authorities said. Search and rescue efforts continued Sunday for the remaining nine missing people. The truck plunged into the river while crossing a low-water bridge in Huanjiang Maonan Autonomous [] The post 1 dead, 9 missing after pickup truck falls off bridge in southern China appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

NCWs Power Dialogues on Women in J&K Reflect Priority to Region: Dr Jitendra Singh

Says inteligent J&K women excelling in civil services and competitive exams; highlights PM Modis focus on region, role in Viksit Bharat 2047 Rehan Qayoom MirSrinagar, May 17 : Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Sunday said that the National Commission for Womens (NCW) programme in Jammu and Kashmir reflects the Central governments priority towards women empowerment and backward regions. He said the initiative also highlights Prime Minister Narendra Modis focus on Jammu and Kashmir and other historically affected areas.Talking to the reporters on the sideline of programme, Dr Singh as per the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), congratulated NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar for launching a new series of Power Dialogues on Women and holding its fourth edition in Jammu and Kashmir.First of all, I would like to congratulate the Chief Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, Mrs Vijaya Rahatkar. She has started a new series of Power Dialogues on Women and has decided to hold her fourth programme in Jammu and Kashmir, he said.He said the initiative was earlier conducted in Delhi as well, aimed at taking women-centric programmes closer to the grassroots level. She has done this programme in Delhi before so that women-centric dialogue reaches the doorsteps of women, Dr Singh said.Referring to Jammu and Kashmirs cultural identity, he said the region holds a unique place in Indias heritage. This land of Jammu and Kashmir is the land of Rishis and Munis and also the land of Lal-e-Ishwar, Lal Ded and Habba Khatoon, he said. He said the region had witnessed a difficult period in the past decades, during which many families suffered heavy losses. Many of our sisters lost their husbands, many parents lost their daughters and many daughters lost their parents, he said. Dr Singh said Jammu and Kashmir is now emerging from that phase and the NCW programme reflects renewed attention towards the region under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The National Commission for Women reaching here and giving special attention to this area shows how Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given priority to Jammu and Kashmir and other backward regions, he said. He said women in Jammu and Kashmir are highly intelligent and have shown remarkable improvement in confidence and aspirations over the last 1012 years due to government initiatives. It is an aspirational surge among the women of Jammu and Kashmir, he said.Dr Singh said women are now excelling in education and competitive fields. Girls from Jammu and Kashmir are now securing top positions in civil services and performing well in IIT and NIT examinations, he said. He added that women from the region are increasingly becoming part of the national mainstream and contributing to the countrys development journey. They are ready to participate in Indias development journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047, when the country will complete 100 years of independence, he said. Dr Singh further expressed confidence that women of Jammu and Kashmir will play a key role in shaping the future of the region and the country.The daughters, mothers and sisters of Jammu and Kashmir will play an important role in illuminating the bright future of Jammu and Kashmir, he said(KNO)

Ladakh UT Approves Wage Rationalisation for Daily Wagers, Revises Pay Under Minimum Wages Act

SRINAGAR: The Union Territory administration of Ladakh has approved wage rationalisation for daily wagers, part-time and seasonal workers, with Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena directing that wages be paid in line with the Government of Indias Minimum Wages Act. According to an official statement, the decision is expected to benefit thousands of workers engaged across []

Mehbooba Mufti Backs Hosabale On People-To-People Contact With Pakistan

SRINAGAR, May 17: Peoples Democratic Party President Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday endorsed RSS functionary Dattatreya Hosabales recent remark that people-to-people contact is key to breaking the deadlock with Pakistan and there should always be a window for dialogue. The solution to Kashmir lies in dialogue and within the framework of the Constitution. Whatever we have to achieve needs to be done from Delhi and here (Jammu and Kashmir). We believe in engagement and talks. We seek peace with dignity, Mehbooba [] The post Mehbooba Mufti Backs Hosabale On People-To-People Contact With Pakistan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

J&K Bank Employee from Kashmir Posted at Navin Shahdara Delhi Branch Dies After Fall in Gurugram

Srinagar, May 16: A J&K Bank employee from Kashmir today reportedly lost his life after falling from Tower 7 in Gurugram. The deceased has been identified as John Aadil Khan, a resident of Seer Hamdan in South Kashmir, who was presently posted at the Jammu and Kashmir Bank branch at Navin Shahdara in Delhi. According to reports, the staff member fell into the building shaft and was immediately shifted to a hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. Meanwhile, Health Activist Dr Mohammad Momin Khan expressed deep sorrow over the incident and urged the Jammu and Kashmir government, particularly Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, to ensure that the mortal remains of the deceased are brought back to Srinagar at the earliest.

Drone strike caused fire outside nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi, reports AP citing UAE authorities

Drone strike caused fire outside nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi, reports AP citing UAE authorities The post Drone strike caused fire outside nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi, reports AP citing UAE authorities appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Lashkar Terrorist Goes For Hair Transplant After Infiltrating To Set Sleeper Bases In India

SRINAGAR, May 17: Infiltrating Jammu and Kashmir to execute terror attacks for the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LET), a Pakistani terrorist paused his operations to fulfil a personal dream getting a hair transplant. Mohammed Usman Jatt, alias Chinese, told interrogators that he found life in Kashmir completely different from what he had been tutored in terrorist training camps and went for hairline restoration in Srinagar after learning about it from a shop owner, officials said here on Sunday. The case is [] The post Lashkar Terrorist Goes For Hair Transplant After Infiltrating To Set Sleeper Bases In India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

West Asia War: Vessel Carrying 20,000 Tonnes Of LPG Reaches Gujarat Crossing Strait Of Hormuz

KANDLA (GUJARAT), May 17: A vessel carrying 20,000 metric tonnes of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) arrived at Deendayal Port Authority in Kandla in Gujarat after crossing the Strait of Hormuz amid the West Asia crisis, officials said on Sunday. The Marshall Islands-flagged MV SYMI started its journey from Qatar and docked at the port in Kandla around 11.30 pm on Saturday after crossing the Strait of Hormuz on May 13, they added. Since early March, 13 India-flagged vessels, comprising 12 [] The post West Asia War: Vessel Carrying 20,000 Tonnes Of LPG Reaches Gujarat Crossing Strait Of Hormuz appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Body of Missing South Kashmir Man Recovered

SRINAGAR: The body of a man from south Kashmirs Pulwama district, who had been reported missing, was recovered from the Suksari area along the Mughal Road on Sunday, officials said. Official sources said that the deceased has been identified as Shabir Ahmad Dar, a resident of the Arigam area of Pulwama district, who had been []

Centuries-Old Panzath Festival Revives Community-Led Spring Cleaning Tradition in South Kashmir

ANANTNAG, May 17: Hundreds of people from multiple villages in south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Sunday participated in the centuries-old Panzath festival, a traditional community event centered around cleaning freshwater springs that supply drinking water and irrigate agricultural land across the region. The annual festival, locally known for collective fish-catching activities, was observed at the historic Panzath spring area near Qazigund, where residents entered streams and spring channels carrying traditional baskets and nets. Locals said the real purpose of the [] The post Centuries-Old Panzath Festival Revives Community-Led Spring Cleaning Tradition in South Kashmir appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Why Isnt PM Sacking Education Minister Pradhan Despite Repeated Paper Leaks, Asks Rahul

NEW DELHI, May 17: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi why he was not sacking Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan despite repeated paper leaks in his tenure. In a post on X, Gandhi also questioned the silence of the prime minister on the matter. NEET 2024: Paper leaked. Exam not cancelled. Minister did not resign. CBI set up an investigation. A committee was formed. NEET 2026: Paper leaked. Exam cancelled. Minister still did not resign. CBI [] The post Why Isnt PM Sacking Education Minister Pradhan Despite Repeated Paper Leaks, Asks Rahul appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Armed gunmen abduct over 45 school children in coordinated school attacks in Southwest Nigeria

ABUJA, May 17: Armed gunmen stormed three schools in Nigerias Oyo State and abducted more than 45 school children in a coordinated daylight assault that has triggered panic across the southwest region and renewed fears over the countrys worsening insecurity. The attackers stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Esiele, and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area during morning classes. The attackers, riding on motorcycles and fired shots indiscriminately as they targeted schools [] The post Armed gunmen abduct over 45 school children in coordinated school attacks in Southwest Nigeria appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Security forces kill 5 terrorists in northwest Pakistan

PESHAWAR, May 17: Security forces gunned down five terrorists in intelligence-based operations in northwest Pakistan, police said on Sunday. The operations were conducted late Saturday in the Bannu district of restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, according to police. The Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sajjad Khan said that the operations were launched following a recent attack on a police checkpost in Fateh Khel area in the district. At least 15 security officials were killed and several were injured in the attack [] The post Security forces kill 5 terrorists in northwest Pakistan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

J&K Police Launches Crackdown On Drug Network, Demolishes Illegal Structures In Samba

JAMMU, May 17: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Sunday launched crackdown on drug networks by demolishing illegal structures in the Samba district. The police spokesman said that a demolition drive was launched at identified drugs hotspot Balole Khad in Bari Brahmana area of Samna district as part of a focused anti-narcotics enforcement action being conducted jointly by district police and the civil administration against illegal structures. The demolished illegal structures had become a safe haven for drug peddlers and habitual [] The post J&K Police Launches Crackdown On Drug Network, Demolishes Illegal Structures In Samba appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

SriLankan Airlines accuses Indian employees of Rs 22 million fraud

COLOMBO, May 17: SriLankan Airlines has accused several Indian employees based in its Chennai office of misappropriating funds worth Rs 22 million. In a statement issued on Saturday, the Sri Lankan flag carrier said that the fraud was carried out by altering invoices, payment details and signatures. With regard to the misappropriation of funds at SriLankan Airlines office in Chennai, the airline wishes to inform that a few employees, all Indian nationals working in the finance department in Chennai are [] The post SriLankan Airlines accuses Indian employees of Rs 22 million fraud appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

WHO declares Ebola epidemic in Congo, Uganda a public health emergency of global concern

Geneva [Switzerland], May 17 : The Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has determined that the Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. In an official statement WHO noted that the outbreak constitutes a public health risk to other countries through international spread of disease ad mentioned that it has already been documented, with two confirmed cases reported in Kampala, Uganda on May 15 and May 16 following travel from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The WHO said that the neighbouring countries sharing land borders with the Democratic Republic of the Congo are considered at high risk for further spread due to population mobility, trade and travel linkages, and ongoing epidemiological uncertainty. It called for international coordination and cooperation to understand the extent of the outbreak, to coordinate surveillance, prevention and response efforts, to scale up and strengthen operations and ensure the ability to implement control measures. The statement noted that the Director-General of WHO will be convening an Emergency Committee, as soon as possible, to advise, inter alia, on the proposed temporary recommendation for States Parties to respond to the event. The World Health Organisation urged to strengthen community awareness, engagement, and participation in particular to identify and address cultural norms and beliefs that serve as barriers to their full participation in the response, and integrate the response within the wider response required to address the needs of the population, particularly in contexts of the protracted humanitarian crisis in Eastern DRC. The statement underlined that for countries which do not share a land border with the affected states, borders should not be closed, nor should any restriction be placed on travel and trade. No country should close its borders or place any restrictions on travel and trade. Such measures are usually implemented out of fear and have no basis in science. They push the movement of people and goods to informal border crossings that are not monitored, thus increasing the chances of the spread of disease. Most critically, these restrictions can also compromise local economies and negatively affect response operations from a security and logistics perspective, it said. The statement noted that national authorities should work with airlines and other transport and tourism industries to ensure that they do not exceed the WHOs advice on international traffic. It called on other countries that do not share a land border to provide travellers to Bundibugyo virus disease-affected and at-risk areas with relevant information on risks, measures to minimise those risks, and advice for managing a potential exposure. The WHO highlighted the need for the general public to be provided with accurate and relevant information on the Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak and measures to reduce the risk of exposure, and said that State Parties should be prepared to facilitate the evacuation and repatriation of nationals (e.g. health workers) who have been exposed to Bundibugyo virus disease. It noted that entry screening at airports or other ports of entry outside the affected region is not considered needed for passengers returning from areas at risk. The announcement comes after the World Health Organisation noted that as of 16 May 2026, eight laboratory-confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected deaths have been reported in Ituri Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo across at least three health zones, including Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu. In addition, two laboratory-confirmed cases (including one death) with no apparent link to each other have been reported in Kampala, Uganda, within 24 hours of each other, on 15 and 16 May 2026, among two individuals travelling from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. On 16 May, a laboratory confirmed case was also reported in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, among someone returning from Ituri. As per the WHO, unusual clusters of community deaths with symptoms compatible with Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) have been reported across several health zones in Ituri, and suspected cases have been reported across Ituri and North Kivu. In addition, at least four deaths among healthcare workers in a clinical context suggestive of viral haemorrhagic fever have been reported from the affected area, raising concerns regarding healthcare-associated transmission, gaps in infection prevention and control measures, and the potential for amplification within health facilities. The statement noted that there are significant uncertainties to the true number of infected persons and geographic spread associated with this event at the present time and that there is limited understanding of the epidemiological links with known or suspected cases. However, the high positivity rate of the initial samples collected (with eight positives among 13 samples collected in various areas), the confirmation of cases in both Kampala and Kinshasa, the increasing trends in syndromic reporting of suspected cases and clusters of deaths across the province of Ituri all point towards a potentially much larger outbreak than what is currently being detected and reported, with significant local and regional risk of spread. Moreover, the ongoing insecurity, humanitarian crisis, high population mobility, the urban or semi-urban nature of the current hotspot and the large network of informal healthcare facilities further compound the risk of spread, as was witnessed during the large Ebola virus disease epidemic in North Kivu and Ituri provinces in 2018-19. However, unlike for Ebola-zaire strains, there are currently no approved Bundibugyo virus-specific therapeutics or vaccines. As such, this event is considered extraordinary. The WHO noted that the event requires international coordination and cooperation to understand the extent of the outbreak, to coordinate surveillance, prevention and response efforts, to scale up and strengthen operations and ensure the ability to implement control measures. (ANI)

Online filing and Excel utilities for ITR-1 and ITR-4 for AY2026-27 now available on e-filing portal: Income Tax India

NEW DELHI, May 17: Income Tax India urges people to file their Income Tax Return (ITR) by sharing a post on microblogging site X. Income Tax India said that online filing and Excel utilities for ITR-1 and ITR-4 for AY2026-27 are now available on e-filing portal. Form 16/16A generated and downloaded through the TRACES portal alone constitute a valid and authentic TDS certificate, Income Tax India wrote on X. Taxpayers should ensure that TDS certificates are relied upon while filing [] The post Online filing and Excel utilities for ITR-1 and ITR-4 for AY2026-27 now available on e-filing portal: Income Tax India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Indias Rs 1.7 lakh crore fuel crisis may have found an unlikely fix water

NEW DELHI, May 17: As India battles soaring energy import costs and a weakening rupee amid global oil turmoil, a Monaco-based fuel technology company says it may have found an answer hiding in plain sight: water. FOWE Eco Solutions, through its patented Cavitech fuel emulsion technology, claims industries can slash fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent, reduce harmful emissions dramatically, and improve equipment performance all without modifying engines or shutting plants down. The pitch comes at a [] The post Indias Rs 1.7 lakh crore fuel crisis may have found an unlikely fix water appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

UCIL to extract uranium from Hindustan Coppers tailings, to set up recovery plant in Jharkhand: CMD

NEW DELHI, May 17: Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL), a public sector company under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), will set up a recovery plant in Jharkhand to extract uranium from tailings of state-owned Hindustan Copper, a top official said on Sunday. The move would help in augmenting domestic supplies of the strategic mineral used in nuclear power and defence applications. In an interview with PTI, Hindustan Copper Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Sanjiv Kumar Singh said that [] The post UCIL to extract uranium from Hindustan Coppers tailings, to set up recovery plant in Jharkhand: CMD appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Hero MotoCorp lines up Rs 1,500 cr capex for FY27 to double scooter production capacity

NEW DELHI, May 17: Two-wheeler market leader Hero MotoCorp has earmarked Rs 1,500 crore capex for FY27 to double its scooter production capacity, according to its CEO Harshavardhan Chitale. The company has also committed over Rs 700 crore of investment in building a global parts centre in South of India, he told analysts. We are investing in capacity expansion, and we have committed over Rs 1,500 crore of capex in FY27. And this capex is going to expand our capacity [] The post Hero MotoCorp lines up Rs 1,500 cr capex for FY27 to double scooter production capacity appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

FPIs pull out Rs 27,000 cr in May; 2026 outflows hit Rs 2.2 lakh cr-mark

NEW DELHI, May 17: Foreign investors continued to pare their exposure to Indian equities, withdrawing Rs 27,048 crore so far this month, indicating cautiousness among global investors amid an evolving global macroeconomic and geopolitical environment. With this, total outflows by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) from the equity market have reached Rs 2.2 lakh crore in 2026, higher than the Rs 1.66 lakh crore pulled out during the entire 2025, according to data with the NSDL. FPIs were net sellers in [] The post FPIs pull out Rs 27,000 cr in May; 2026 outflows hit Rs 2.2 lakh cr-mark appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

North America, NE Asia, Latin America account for over 35 pc of Indias exports in FY26

NEW DELHI, May 17: North America, North-East Asia, and Latin America together accounted for over 35 per cent of Indias merchandise exports, which stood at USD 441.78 billion in 2025-26, reflecting a gradual shift towards a more diversified and resilient global trade structure, according to commerce ministry data. Exports to East Africa increased 13.7 per cent to USD 12.6 billion, accounting for 2.9 per cent of Indias exports, while North Africa rose 14.8 per cent to USD 8 billion with [] The post North America, NE Asia, Latin America account for over 35 pc of Indias exports in FY26 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Rahul Gandhi slams Centre, demands resignation of Education Minister over paper leak allegations

New Delhi [India], May 17 : Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Sunday attacked the BJP-led Central government over the alleged irregularities NEET-UG 2026 and demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Congress MP also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi silence over the issue. NEET 2024: Paper leaked. Exam not cancelled. Minister did not resign. CBI set up an investigation. A committee was formed. NEET 2026: Paper leaked. Exam cancelled. Minister still did not resign. CBI is investigating again. Another committee will be formed. Mr. Modi, the country is asking you some questions answer them! Why are paper leaks happening repeatedly? Why are you silent time and again on this exam paper discussion? Why arent you dismissing the Education Minister who keeps failing repeatedly?, he said on X. The remarks come amid mounting controversy surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 examination after allegations of a paper leak and subsequent cancellation of the exam. Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday produced accused Manisha Gurunath Mandhare before the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi and sought 14 days custody for further investigation. Mandhare is part of the National Testing Agency (NTA) panel and served as an expert and translator for the examination process. The CBI told the court that the entire process followed by the NTA is under investigation. The Karnataka Youth Congress will organise a Raj Bhavan Chalo protest march in Bengaluru on May 21 over the issue, with several senior Congress leaders expected to participate. The re-examination is scheduled to be held on June 21. As a corrective measure, the Union Education Minister has announced that NEET-UG will be conducted in computer-based test (CBT) mode from next year. (ANI)

Time For Gujarat To Lead In Service Sector, Compete With Top Tech Hubs: Amit Shah

AHMEDABAD, May 17: Union Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said Gujarat must now elevate itself to the top position in the service sector after performing exceptionally well across key segments like manufacturing, engineering, and green energy. Speaking at the inauguration of Ganesh Housings Million Minds Tech Park, Shah asserted that if Ahmedabad aspired to position itself on par with major tech hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, and Gurugram, such modern infrastructure initiatives are essential. Gujarat has performed exceptionally well across [] The post Time For Gujarat To Lead In Service Sector, Compete With Top Tech Hubs: Amit Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Gautam Adani performs bhoomi pujan for Adani Centre for Eye Diseases in Bihars Saran

Saran (Bihar), May 17: Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani on Sunday performed Bhoomi Pujan for the launch of Adani Centre for Eye Diseases (ACE), in association with the Akhand Jyoti Eye Hospital in Mastichak area of Bihars Saran district. Adani, accompanied by Priti Adani, chairperson, Adani Foundation, said the ACE will be a major effort to provide accessible and affordable eye care to those in need. Prior to this, the chairman of the Adani group and Priti Adani reached Gayatri [] The post Gautam Adani performs bhoomi pujan for Adani Centre for Eye Diseases in Bihars Saran appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

PDP President Seeks Release of Prisoners Ahead of Eid, Urges Dialogue on Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday called for the release of prisoners ahead of Eid, describing it as a first confidence-building measure and a step towards reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a gathering at Sher-e-Kashmir Park in Srinagar, Mufti said the Union Government in New Delhi must listen to the []

LG Orders Major Wage Rationalisation Reform For Daily Wagers, Part-Time And Seasonal Workers Engaged By UT Admin

Leh, May 17: The Union Territory of Ladakh is all set to undergo one of the biggest reforms in its history, with Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena, approving the long-pending wage rationalisation for daily wagers, part-time and seasonal/need-based workers, engaged by the Ladakh Administration. Thousands of wage earners, who have been working for as low as Rs 300 to Rs 500 per month for the past several years, will benefit from this move. Many of these workers had been working [] The post LG Orders Major Wage Rationalisation Reform For Daily Wagers, Part-Time And Seasonal Workers Engaged By UT Admin appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Great Nicobar project a recipe for ecological disaster: Ramesh to Defence minister

NEW DELHI, May 17:Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Sunday wrote to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on the Great Nicobar Island Project, saying the project in its present shape and form is a recipe for ecological disaster. Congress leaders have been flagging concerns over the project, claiming it would have a bearing on the ecology and tribal rights in the region. In his letter to the minister, he said while there can be no two opinions on the need to strengthen [] The post Great Nicobar project a recipe for ecological disaster: Ramesh to Defence minister appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Australian-Indian Athlete Om Satija Completes 5,000-km Journey from Kanyakumari to Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Indian-Australian endurance athlete Om Satija on Sunday completed his ambitious 5,000-kilometre One India Run campaign after reaching Srinagar, culminating a 110-day cross-country journey from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. The 23-year-old athlete, originally from Melbourne, Australia, completed nearly 4,950 kilometres before concluding the run at Zabarwan Park in Srinagar. Speaking after completing the run, Om said []

Nepals Mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa Climbs Mt Everest For 32nd Time, Beats Own Record

KATHAMANDU, May 17: Nepals mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa made history on Sunday by breaking his own world record for the highest number of ascents of Mt. Everest as he scaled the worlds highest peak for the 32nd time. The 56-year-old veteran climber reached the 8,849-metre peak at 10:12 am on Sunday, according to the Department of Tourism. He was leading an expedition operated by 14 Peaks Expedition, it said. The successful ascent was confirmed by the departments field office stationed [] The post Nepals Mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa Climbs Mt Everest For 32nd Time, Beats Own Record appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Release Detainees Ahead of Eid as Confidence-Building Measure: Mehbooba Mufti

Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday called for the release of detainees ahead of Eid, describing it as the first real confidence-building measure needed to restore trust and reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a gathering at Sher-e-Kashmir Park in Srinagar, Mufti said the atmosphere of fear and silence in Kashmir must []

Missing Livestock Dealer Found Dead Along Mughal Road

Srinagar: A livestock dealer from Pulwama, who had gone missing since Friday afternoon, was found dead on Sunday morning in the Sukh Sarai area along the Mughal Road, officials said. The deceased has been identified as Shabzar Ahmad Dar, a resident of Arigam village in the Tral area of Pulwama district. According to reports, Dar had left his home on Friday to offer congregational prayers but did not return, prompting concern among family members. After repeated attempts to contact him failed, the family approached the police and a missing report was lodged. During the investigation, police recovered Dars vehicle from the Dubjan area on Saturday evening. Following the recovery, search operations were intensified in nearby areas along the Mughal Road. Officials said that on Sunday morning, Dars body was recovered from Sukh Sarai. The body was subsequently shifted to a hospital for medico-legal formalities, including postmortem examination. Police have taken cognizance of the incident and initiated further investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the death. The exact cause of death is yet to be determined.More details are awaited.

India, Netherlands unveil Strategic Partnership roadmap with focus on defence, security cooperation

New Delhi [India], May 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten agreed to elevate relations between India and the Netherlands to a Strategic Partnership, adopting a five-year roadmap with one of the focus areas being defence, maritime and security cooperation. During their meeting in the Hague on Saturday, the two leaders adopted the Roadmap of India-Netherlands Strategic Partnership (2026-2030) for the next five years, aimed at advancing focused, time-bound initiatives and joint plans of action. Under the defence cooperation, both countries agreed to plan structured Joint Tri-services interaction between respective Ministries of Defence of the Directorates of International Military Cooperation, to coordinate bilateral military cooperation, including engagement between defence industries and research centres. The roadmap also stated that both sides would enhance maritime cooperation, through mutual participation in naval exercises and tailored involvement in the IFC-IOR (Information Fusion Centre Indian Ocean Region). India and the Netherlands further agreed to promote interactions between respective Armed Forces in the framework of the Netherlands growing interest in the Indo-Pacific region, including cooperation linked to the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS). On defence technology and industry, the two countries agreed to explore avenues on technology collaboration of platforms and equipment and work towards a Defence Industrial Roadmap between the two Ministries of Defence involving the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and the Netherlands Industry for Defence and Security (NIDV). The roadmap additionally proposed examining the feasibility of institutionalizing logistic support to military units/formation during training exercises through signing of Mutual Logistic Support Agreement. On security cooperation, the two sides agreed to enhance cooperation through regular exchanges on traditional and non-traditional security issues, including defence, maritime security, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, critical technologies and economic security. Both countries also pledged to strengthen bilateral cyber dialogue engagements and pursue joint efforts to counter cyber threats and cybercrime through capacity building and knowledge exchange. In counterterrorism cooperation, India and the Netherlands agreed to strengthen collaboration through information-sharing with respect to threat assessments and best practices while also working together for the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations (UN). The roadmap further stated that both nations would continue to work together to conclude a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty and a new Extradition Treaty, alongside expanding cooperation under the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) framework. Meanwhile, according to the joint statement issued during PM Modis visit to the Netherlands, both leaders welcomed the signing of the Letter of Intent on Defence Cooperation and stressed the need for deepening of the defence cooperation between the two countries, including through regular interaction between respective Ministries of Defence and staff level talks. The two sides said the cooperation would include exchanges of information, visits, research, innovation and training activities while also moving toward further expanding the scope of Defence Industrial Cooperation between the two countries. Both leaders also agreed to explore possibilities of establishing a Defence Industrial Roadmap focused on co-development, transfer of technology and setting up of joint ventures for co-production of defence equipment and systems for the armed forces of both nations. On broader security cooperation, India and the Netherlands agreed to further enhance the security co-operation through regular exchanges on defence, maritime security, economic security, cyber security, counterterrorism and critical technologies. The leaders welcomed the signing of the Letter of Intent on enhanced collaboration in cyberspace, aimed at closer coordination in multilateral fora and joint efforts on countering cyber threats and cybercrime through capacity building and the exchange of knowledge. Both sides also underlined the importance of an open, free, secure, stable, accessible and peaceful ICT environment, describing it as essential for innovation and economic growth. Prime Minister Modi thanked the Netherlands for its participation in the AI Impact Summit held in New Delhi in February. On counterterrorism, Netherlands Prime Minister Jetten strongly condemned the heinous and abhorrent terrorist attack on civilians in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, India in April 2025 and expressed the Netherlands solidarity and unwavering support to India in its fight against terrorism, including cross-border terrorism. The two leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and called for a zero tolerance approach to terrorism while rejecting double standards in countering terrorism. The joint statement also reaffirmed the need to combat terrorism through both bilateral and multilateral mechanisms, including in the UN and the FATF. Both sides called for concerted action against all terrorists and terrorist groups, including groups proscribed by the United Nations Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee and their proxies, affiliates, sponsors, backers and financiers. The statement further urged all countries to work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure as well as to disrupt terrorist networks and their financing and bring perpetrators of terrorism to justice swiftly, in accordance with international law. Dutch Prime Minister Jetten also expressed support for Indias efforts to establish a United Nations Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. The two leaders additionally voiced concern over the growing threats from the use of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes, including unmanned aircraft systems, virtual assets and misuse of information technologies for radicalisation. Recognising their shared commitment to combat terrorism, both leaders stressed the importance of upholding international standards on anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism. (ANI)

Police Intensifies Anti-Narcotics Drive, Arrests Alleged Drug Peddler In J&Ks Anantnag

SRINAGAR, May 17: Police in Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district on Sunday arrested an alleged drug peddler and recovered over 100 grams of charas from his possession as part of an intensified crackdown on narcotics across the district, officials said. Anantnag Police continues crackdown on drug peddlers. During naka checking at Tulkhan Crossing, Bijbehara, one drug peddler was arrested and 102 grams of charas concealed in corn husk recovered. FIR registered, Anantnag police posted on X. Police said a separate [] The post Police Intensifies Anti-Narcotics Drive, Arrests Alleged Drug Peddler In J&Ks Anantnag appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Driver Killed as Truck Plunges into Gorge in Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: A driver was killed after a truck plunged into a deep gorge in the Nachlana area of Banihal in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. Reports said the vehicle lost control and fell into the gorge, resulting in the drivers death on the spot. The identity of the deceased was not immediately []

President Murmu Promulgates Ordinance To Increase Supreme Court Judge Strength By Four

NEW DELHI, May 17: President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday has promulgated an ordinance increasing the number of judges in the Supreme Court to 37 excluding the Chief Justice of India (CJI). The gazette notification, dated May 16, stated the Parliament is not in session and the President is satisfied that the circumstances exist which render it necessary for her to take immediate action. The ordinance is called the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Ordinance, 2026. The ordinance was [] The post President Murmu Promulgates Ordinance To Increase Supreme Court Judge Strength By Four appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

CNG Prices Hiked By Re 1, Second Time In A Week

NEW DELHI, May 17: CNG prices were hiked by Re 1 per kg on Sunday, the second increase in rates in less than a week. CNG now costs Rs 80.09 per kg in the national capital, according to Indraprastha Gas Ltd, the countrys biggest city gas firm. The rate hike comes within days of Rs 2 per kg increase in rates on Thursday. Rates of gas piped to household kitchens, called piped natural gas, however, remain unchanged. IGL said, The [] The post CNG Prices Hiked By Re 1, Second Time In A Week appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

EMPLOYMENT (17-05-2026)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit China from May 19 to 20

Moscow , May 17: Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to China from May 19 to 20 at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to the official Telegram channel of Russias Foreign Ministry. The ministry said the visit is timed to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Good-Neighbourliness, Friendship and Cooperation a foundational document for interstate relations. During the visit, Putin and Xi will discuss current issues on the bilateral agenda, ways to further deepen the comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation between Russia and China, while also exchanging views on key international and regional issues. The two leaders are also expected to participate in the official opening ceremony of the Years of Education of Russia and China for 2026-2027. According to the official statement, following the talks, they are expected to sign a Joint Statement at the highest level, as well as a number of bilateral intergovernmental, interdepartmental and other documents. The programme of the visit will also include a meeting between Putin and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, where both sides are expected to discuss prospects for trade and economic cooperation. Earlier on Thursday (local time), the Kremlin said that preparations for Russian President Vladimir Putins upcoming visit to China were nearly complete, with official dates expected to be announced shortly, according to the Russian news agency TASS. Speaking at a briefing, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the visit was in its final stages of preparation. We will announce them very soon. This visit is being prepared. We can say that preparations are already complete; we are just putting the finishing touches on them. It will take place very soon, Peskov said. According to TASS, Putins upcoming trip to China was among the key topics discussed during Thursdays Kremlin briefing. Meanwhile, on Friday, US President Donald Trump, on his visit to China, stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit the United States around September 24, describing the proposed trip as a reciprocal visit, referring to the USs reciprocal trade with China. Speaking to the press during his meeting with his Chinese counterpart at the Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing, Trump expressed his gratitude to Xi and his representative. I just want to thank President Xi and all of his representativesweve become friendly with all of them; theyre great people. Its an honour to be here, and well be back. And I believe on September 24th, or thereabouts, President Xi is going to be coming to the United States, and we will be reciprocallike reciprocal trade, the visit will be reciprocal, Trump said. The US President again thanked the Chinese leadership for hosting him, describing the visit as a positive experience.I just want to end by saying thank you very much, its been really a great couple of days, he said. After two days of high-stakes meetings and engagement aimed at strengthening the ties between Washington and Beijing, US President Donald Trump on Friday departed from China, marking the conclusion of his state visit to the country. (ANI)

Union Minister Sanjay Kumar Says Truth Will Prevail After Son Held In POCSO Case

HYDERABAD, May 17: Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar has said that he has complete faith in the legal process and truth will ultimately prevail following his son Bageeraths arrest in a POCSO case. Kumar requested everyone to understand that this is a personal family matter and they will continue to fight it legally with complete faith in the judiciary and justice system. A day after the Telangana High Court refused to grant interim protection from arrest to Bageerath, he was [] The post Union Minister Sanjay Kumar Says Truth Will Prevail After Son Held In POCSO Case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Fire Breaks Out In Coach Of Delhi-Bound Rajdhani Express In MPs Ratlam; No Casualties

Ratlam/Kota, May 17: A fire broke out in an AC coach of a Rajdhani Express heading from Thiruvananthapuram to Delhi in Madhya Pradeshs Ratlam district on Sunday morning, railway officials said. No casualties have been reported in the blaze that erupted at 5.15 am in the B-1 coach, carrying 68 passengers, of the Thiruvananthapuram-Hazrat Nizamuddin Rajdhani Express (train no. 12431), senior railways commercial manager Sourbah Jain said. The incident occurred between Vikramgarh Alot and Lunirichha stations under the Kota division [] The post Fire Breaks Out In Coach Of Delhi-Bound Rajdhani Express In MPs Ratlam; No Casualties appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Has Development Erased the Soul of the Baramulla Bypass?

by Rameez Bhat Baramulla bypass transformation under Project Beacon improves functionality but erases ecological, aesthetic, and emotional value, raising concerns over identity, planning sensitivity, and sustainable development choices. There was a time when the Baramulla bypass did not merely take you somewhere; it made you feel something along the way. It was not just a []

Punjab Carpenter Found Dead in Srinagar

SRINAGAR: A non-local man was found dead in the Nishat area of Srinagar on Sunday, officials said. An official said that the deceased has been identified as Malkeet Singh, a resident of Amritsar, Punjab, presently residing in Nishat, Srinagar. He was around 25 years old and was working as a carpenter in the Valley, the []

Rail with Restraint

ashmirs costly rail link must reduce dependence on fragile highways, prioritising sustainable use, ecological protection, and expanded passenger and freight services for resilient connectivity. The rail connectivity between Srinagar and Jammu marks a structural shift in Jammu and Kashmirs economic geography. Built at a cost exceeding Rs 43,000 crore, the UdhampurSrinagarBaramulla Rail Link is among []

Targeting commercial shipping, impeding navigation in Strait of Hormuz unacceptable: Indias Permanent Representative at UN

New York , May 17 : Indias Permanent Representative to the United Nations Parvathaneni Harish outlined Indias approach towards tackling the ongoing energy and fertiliser crisis amid the conflict in West Asia, stressing the need for a combination of short-term and long-term measures backed by international cooperatioHarish said he participated in the Special Meeting of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UNECOSOC) on safeguarding energy and supply flows. He emphasised that a mix of immediate and structural measures, along with international cooperation, would be essential to effectively respond to the crisis. Harish also reiterated Indias concerns over disruptions to maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Shared Indias approach to the recent energy and fertiliser crisis in light of the West Asia conflict at the Special Meeting of the UNECOSOC on Safeguarding energy and supply flows. A combination of short-term and structural measures alongside international cooperation are essential to respond to the crisis. Reiterated that targeting of commercial shipping, endangering civilian crew and impeding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, are unacceptable. International law in this regard must be fully respected, Harish wrote on X This comes after Iran announced a professional mechanism to regulate maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz through a designated route, which will be unveiled soon. In a post on X, Iranian Parliaments NSC chief Ebrahim Azizi said that the proposed mechanism has been developed within the framework of Irans national sovereignty and with the aim of ensuring the security of international trade. He further stated that only commercial vessels and parties cooperating with Iran would be permitted to benefit from the mechanism. Azizi also said that the proposed route would remain closed to operators associated with the so-called freedom project. Iran, within the framework of its national sovereignty and the guarantee of international trade security, has prepared a professional mechanism to manage traffic in the Strait of Hormuz along a designated route, which will be unveiled soon. In this process, only commercial vessels and parties cooperating with Iran will benefit from it. The necessary fees will be collected for the specialized services provided under this mechanism. This route will remain closed to the operators of the so-called freedom project, said the X post from Azizi. Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump warned of very bad time if any peace deal to end the West Asia crisis is not reached, Al Jazeera reported, while quoting local French broadcaster BFMTV. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that the United States remains the primary barrier to peace in West Asia. Araghchi claimed that after more than a month of failed military objectives, the US attempted to pivot toward dialogue, a move met with deep-seated scepticism in Tehran. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi following a meeting of the BRICS Foreign Ministers, the Iranian Foreign Minister laid bare the trust deficit defining the current geopolitical standoff.Now, after 40 days of war, when the US became hopeless of achieving any goal in their aggression against Iran, they offered negotiation We have no trust in Americans This is the main obstacle in the way of any diplomatic effort. We have every reason not to trust Americans, while they have no reason not to trust us, he stated. (ANI)

North Kashmir: Residential House Gutted in Fire Incident

SRINAGAR: A single-storey residential house was completely gutted in a fire incident in the Pattan area of north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Saturday evening. Reports said the blaze broke out in the residential structure and spread rapidly, engulfing the entire house before it could be brought under control. The property, belonging to Ab Ahad Tantry []

Census 2027: DC Gbal appeals residents to participate in Self-Enumeration Drive

Process to begin from May 17; residents urged to complete online survey from home Ganderbal, May 16: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore on Saturday appealed all residents of Ganderbal to actively participate in the self-enumeration process for Census 2027, which is scheduled to begin from tomorrow, May 17 in Ganderbal district. While addressing a press conference here, the DC said that self-enumeration is the first phase of Census 2027 and provides citizens an opportunity to fill census details themselves from the comfort of their homes. He informed that the process can be completed through the official website,https://se.census.gov.in, and said that tutorials and flow charts explaining the process will also be shared for public convenience. Highlighting the benefits of self-enumeration, the DC said that once the process is completed, a unique code will be generated which should be noted and saved by the residents. He further said that during the houselisting exercise starting from June 1, enumerators visiting households can use this unique code, eliminating the need for asking the same questions again and thereby saving time for both citizens and enumerators. The DC urged all residents to participate in large numbers and make the Census 2027 exercise smooth and successful.

NIT Sgr concludes lecture series on Himalayan Engineering Challenges

Srinagar, May 16: A two-day lecture series on Engineering in the Himalayas: Advances in Rock Mechanics and Ground Improvement concluded successfully at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar. The programme was organised by the Department of Civil Engineering, NIT Srinagar, in collaboration with the Indian Geotechnical Society Srinagar Chapter. The event was inaugurated by Prof. F.A. Mir, Chairman of IGS Srinagar Chapter; Prof. J.A. Bhat, Head of the Civil Engineering Department at NIT Srinagar; and Prof. B.A. Mir, Honorary Secretary of the IGS Srinagar Chapter. Faculty members, including Prof. Syed Kaiser Bukhari and Dr. R.P. Shukla, along with event coordinators Dr. Majid Hussain and Dr. Falak Zahoor, were also present. While Undergraduate and postgraduate engineering students participated enthusiastically in the lecture series. The programme featured lectures by eminent experts in geotechnical and infrastructure engineering, including Prof. K. Seshagiri Rao of Indian Institute of Technology Delhi and Prof. Arif Ali Baig of NIT Warangal. Their sessions highlighted emerging challenges and innovative solutions in sustainable Himalayan infrastructure development. Prof. Arif Ali Baig delivered a lecture on the growing significance of polymer biogeotechnics and its applications in sustainable environmental engineering. Stressing the need for eco-friendly ground improvement techniques, he encouraged students to actively engage in research in this evolving field. His insights and technical expertise inspired young researchers to contribute towards sustainable engineering solutions. Prof. K. Seshagiri Rao, who described Jammu and Kashmir as his second home, shared his experiences from landmark Himalayan infrastructure projects, including the Chenab Bridge and Anji Khad Bridge under the USBRL railway project. He discussed the geological, social, and technical challenges faced during the construction of these mega projects and highlighted the collaborative role of researchers and agencies in overcoming them. In another lecture, Prof. Rao elaborated on tunnelling in complex Himalayan terrain, drawing examples from the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel and the Pir Panjal Tunnel. His sessions provided students with valuable insights into the innovation, engineering expertise, and perseverance required to execute large-scale infrastructure projects in challenging mountain conditions. The lecture series successfully bridged the gap between academic research and practical engineering, leaving participants motivated to contribute towards sustainable and resilient infrastructure development in the Himalayan region.

Condolence meeting held at Royal Springs Golf Course, Sgr

Srinagar, May 16: A condolence meeting was held on Saturday at Royal Springs Golf Course to express grief on the sad demise of Mohammad Amin Bhat, Incharge Landscape maintenance, Royal Springs Golf Course, who passed away suddenly on May 13, 2025. In the condolence meeting, the officers and staff members remembered the valuable services, dedication, and noble qualities of Late Mohammad Amin Bhat and expressedsympathies with the bereaved family. The Secretary RSGC, officers and staff of Royal Springs Golf Course hailed the services of the departed official in contributing to the development of the Golf course and his unique qualities as a helpful colleague who played a key role in sharing skills with the junior staff for efficient course maintenance and other related tasks. The staff extended their deepest condolences to the bereaved family in this hour of immense grief and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul. The staff members prayed for patience, strength, and courage to the family to bear this irreparable loss.

BIS organizes consumer awareness program in Shopian

Shopian, May 16: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India, organized a Consumer Awareness Programme at Town Hall, Municipal Office Shopian, in collaboration with the Municipal Committee Shopian, to educate consumers about their rights, product quality standards, and recent quality control order initiatives. The programme witnessed active participation from members of civil society, traders, local consumers, students, and other stakeholders. During the event, Sh. Saaqib Rahi, Scientist-C and Deputy Director, BIS-JKBO, delivered a detailed presentation highlighting various BIS initiatives aimed at consumer protection and quality assurance. The main objective of the programme was to create awareness among consumers regarding BIS certification marks and quality standards applicable to manufactured products. BIS officials emphasized the importance of certification marks such as the ISI Mark, Hallmarking for jewellery, and the CRS Mark, which enable consumers to identify safe, reliable, and quality-assured products. Addressing the gathering, Ashish Kumar Dwivedi, Standard Promotion Officer, BIS-JKBO, informed participants about various quality standards and mandatory certification requirements prescribed under BIS regulations. He urged consumers to remain vigilant while purchasing products and to always verify the authenticity of certification marks before making any purchase. A special demonstration of the BIS Care App was also conducted during the programme. Officials explained how consumers can use the mobile application to verify whether a product is genuine or counterfeit. Syed Sanjeeda, Resource Person, demonstrated the features of the BIS Care App and informed participants that consumers can also register grievances and complaints through the application against fake or substandard products available in the market. Participants appreciated the initiative and stated that the programme provided valuable information regarding the identification of genuine and duplicate products. They emphasized the need for conducting such awareness programmes regularly so that consumers in both rural and urban areas can make informed purchasing decisions and gain access to quality-assured products. On the occasion, BIS officials specifically advised consumers to check for the ISI Mark while purchasing products such as geysers, helmets, gas stoves, and pressure cookers, warning that products without proper certification may pose serious safety risks. The programme concluded with BIS officials reiterating their commitment towards consumer protection and urging citizens to make full use of the BIS Care App for product verification and grievance redressal. The event was attended by President Traders Union Shopian, Mushtaq Ahmad, along with President of Civil Society Shopian, Mansoor Magray, besides prominent citizens and participants from different sections of society.

J&KCEGA applauds govts institutional reforms in Jal Shakti Dept

Srinagar, May 16: The Jammu & Kashmir Civil Engineers Gazetted Association (J&KCEGA) has expressed gratitude to Government of Jammu & Kashmir for the landmark reorganisation of Jal Shakti Department, describing it as a progressive and institutionally sound reform that will strengthen the departmental structure and improve public service delivery across the UT. The Association particularly thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Minister for Jal Shakti Javed Ahmad Rana, and Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department Shaleen Kabra for their leadership and constructive intervention in ensuring that the restructuring process was carried out without disturbing the existing top administrative hierarchy. J&KCEGA said the reorganisation addresses several long-pending structural and functional requirements of the department and reflects the Governments commitment towards strengthening the engineering and technical framework of the Jal Shakti sector. The Association welcomed the creation of the post of Secretary Technical, establishment of a separate Design, Inspection & Quality (DIQ) wing, creation of Superintending Engineer offices for Hydraulic Circle Jammu-II and Hydraulic Circle Bandipora, and formation of six new divisions including Hydraulic Division Gandoh, Hydraulic Division Gurez, Hydraulic Division Tangdar, PHE Division Mendhar, and two Water Quality & Monitoring Divisions for Jammu and Kashmir. It also appreciated the restructuring of Mechanical Sub-Divisions, creation of 43 posts through rationalisation, encadrement of 10 posts, reassignment of 137 posts, and revision in Deputation Reserve and Leave Reserve provisions, terming these measures important for better manpower planning, field implementation and institutional efficiency. The Association further expressed satisfaction over the continued regularisation process in the Jal Shakti Department, while observing that a similar process is still missing in the R&B Department. It hoped the Government would take steps to address the issue in the interest of engineers and administrative efficiency.