Jammu Kashmir High Court Puts NMC Order Rejecting Kashmir Medical College
SRINAGAR: The Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has kept in abeyance an order rejecting Kashmir Medical Colleges application for permission to commence its MBBS programme with an annual intake of 150 students, directing the National Medical Commission (NMC) authorities to reconsider the decision in the light of the colleges objections and the applicable law. []
J&K Tourism Wins Two Awards at IITM Mumbai for Adventure and Experiential Tourism
Mumbai : At the just concluded Tourism event, IITM Mumbai, J&K Tourism was adjudged as the best adventure tourism and best experiential tourism destination. The awards were received by Waseem Raja Joint Director Tourism Kashmir on behalf of J&K Tourism.The awards signify growing popularity of J&K Tourism as a leading destination for adventure and Experiential Tourism. The IITM is a tourism promotion event held in many states of the country. J&K Tourism was one of the participants along with states like Gujarat, Telangana and other private stakeholders. The event was held at Bombay convention center Goregaon Mumbai. The J&K stall invoked huge response from local tour operators and stakeholders of Maharashtra with hundreds of stakeholders visiting the stall during the two day's event. The delegation of J&K Tourism comprised of Waseem Raja Joint Director Tourism kashmir and Vivek Puri CEO Surinsar Mansar Development Authority. The officers held detailed meetings with various prominent tour operators and stakeholders of Maharashtra tourism during the two day event for overall promotion of J&K Tourism.
J&K CM Omar Abdullah and journalist Nidhi Razdan get married
The marriage was solemnised under the Special Marriage Act in New Delhi on October 30, 2026
Omar Abdullah Ties the Knot with Journalist Nidhi Razdan
Sources said the marriage was solemnised under the Special Marriage Act here on Friday.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Marries Journalist Nidhi Rajdan
Omar Abdullah announces his marriage to journalist Nidhi Rajdan on social media, marking a new chapter in his life. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Marries Journalist Nidhi Rajdan
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and seniorjournalist Nidhi Razdan have announced their marriage through posts on X, sharing photographs from the occasion.
A new Journey began yesterday : CM Omar Abdullah tweets
DSEJ Announces Six-Day Pooja Holidays for Schools
SRINAGAR: All government and recognised private schools up to the higher secondary level in Jammu Division will remain closed for Pooja holidays from November 6 to 11, 2026. The Directorate of School Education Jammu (DSEJ) issued the holiday order on October 24, covering educational institutions in both summer and winter zones of the division. As []
MY Bharat Anantnag Organises Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at Bijbehara
Bijbehara, Anantnag, October 31: Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) Anantnag, in collaboration with DCC Blues Youth Club, organised Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at Bijbehara on Saturday to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as the Iron Man of India. The programme was organised to highlight Sardar Patels contribution to nation-building and his pivotal role in the political integration of the country. The Chairman of Oxford Presentation School, Bijbehara, attended the event as the Chief Guest. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from youth and students, who took part in various activities aimed at promoting national unity, integrity and communal harmony. A painting competition was organised, providing participants an opportunity to express their thoughts on patriotism and national unity through artwork. A Unity Run was also conducted to spread the message of brotherhood, togetherness and national integration among young people. On the occasion, participants also took the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Pledge, reaffirming their commitment to safeguarding the unity, integrity and security of the nation. A floral tribute was paid to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in recognition of his remarkable contribution to the country. Speakers highlighted the importance of national unity, diversity and mutual respect, while emphasising the vital role of youth in strengthening the social fabric of the country. The programme aimed to instil values of patriotism, discipline, national integration and collective responsibility among young people and encourage their active participation in nation-building initiatives. Through such programmes, MY Bharat Anantnag continues to promote youth engagement, leadership development and community participation, contributing towards the vision of a strong, inclusive and developed India.
Kashmir Reader condoles demise of Qazi Rafiq
Srinagar: Kashmir Reader Editor-in-Chief Haji Hayat Mohammad Bhat has expressed deepest condolences on the demise of Qazi Rafiq, elder brother of Qazi Ishtiaq, owner of INS news agency, who passed away on October 30, 2026, Friday. A condolence meeting was held at the Kashmir Reader office, where the entire staff offered Fateha prayers for the []
Why Life Insurance Is Important in 2026: A Complete Guide
Life insurance answers one question no savings account can. Here is what it protects, the misconceptions that keep people uninsured, and the insurance plans that do each job. Do away with the brochures and the acronyms, and life insurance answers one question no savings account can: what happens to the people who depend on your income in the months and years after you are gone? Everything else in personal finance assumes you will be there to earn, adjust and course-correct. Insurance is the only instrument built for the scenario where you are not. That is why it comes first, and why 2026, for two concrete reasons, is a better year than most to finally act on it. What It Actually Protects Not your life, obviously. Your income, and everything your income silently holds up: the rent or EMI, the school fees, the groceries, the care of parents, the plans made at the dinner table. When an earner dies uninsured, families do not just grieve; they downsize, withdraw children from schools, sell assets at distress prices and borrow at bad terms. A life insurance payout is designed to absorb precisely that shock, arriving at the worst moment a family will ever face. Policy proceeds may be eligible for tax benefits under the applicable provisions of the Income-tax Act, subject to prevailing tax laws and prescribed conditions. The Misconceptions That Keep People Uninsured I am young, it can wait: youth is exactly when cover is most affordable, and the premium you lock at 28 stays with you at 48, because premiums under a term plan are set at purchase and remain level for the term. My employer covers me: group cover typically ends the day the job does. It is too expensive: pure term insurance is the most efficient way to buy a large sum assured, and GST is not applicable on individual life insurance premiums, the first of this years two concrete reasons. I already have a policy: often a small savings policy from years ago whose cover would not replace one year of income. Each belief feels reasonable. Each one leaves a family exposed. Beyond Protection: The Second Job Insurance Can Do Once the protection foundation exists, insurance products can also carry savings toward the goals you will live to see. Market-linked ULIP plans invest part of each premium in funds of your choosing for long horizons, while guaranteed products** suit fixed-date goals. Premiums across categories may qualify for deduction under the applicable provisions of the Income-tax Act, the second concrete reason the arithmetic favours acting now. The sequence is the whole art: protect the income first, then put the surplus to work. Job ABSLI plan What it offers Protect the income ABSLI Super Term Plan - A Non-Linked Non-Participating Life Individual Pure Risk Premium Plan Three plan options; minimum sum assured Rs 25,00,000; death benefit as lump sum, monthly income or both Grow over a long horizon ABSLI Wealth Aspire Plan - A non-participating unit linked life insurance plan 21 segregated funds, four investment options, policy terms of 10 to 40 years, five-year lock-in Meet a fixed-date goal ABSLI Assured Savings Plan - A Non-Linked Non-Participating Individual Savings Life Insurance Plan Guaranteed** maturity benefit, Single Pay or 5 to 12 year premium payment terms Key Takeaways Life insurance protects your income, and everything your income holds up. Cover of 10 to 15 times1 annual income plus outstanding loans is the working benchmark. Employer group cover typically ends when the job does. GST is not applicable on individual life insurance premiums. ABSLI settled 98.86%* of individual death claims in FY 2025-26. Starting This Week Calculate 10 to 15 times your annual income, add outstanding loans, and that is your cover. Read the claim settlement ratio in the insurers public disclosures, the number that indicates whether promises get kept. Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance (ABSLI) settled 98.86%* of individual death claims in FY 2025-26 and offers plans across the protection and savings categories described here. 1. Disclaimers: *Individual death claim settlement ratio of 98.86% for FY 2025-26, as per annual audited figures submitted to IRDAI. **Provided all due premiums are paid. Tax benefits are subject to prevailing tax laws and conditions. Return of Premium under Plan Option 3 is subject to policy terms and conditions. Please read product brochures carefully and consult an advisor before purchasing any policy. IN THIS POLICY, THE INVESTMENT RISK IN INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO IS BORNE BY THE POLICYHOLDER. Linked insurance products are different from traditional insurance products and are subject to risk factors. The premium paid in linked insurance policies is subject to investment risks associated with capital markets. The NAVs of the units may go up or down based on the performance of the fund and factors influencing the capital market and the insured is responsible for his/her decisions. The linked insurance products do not offer any liquidity during the first five years of the contract. The policyholder will not be able to surrender/withdraw the monies invested in Linked Insurance Products completely or partially till the end of the fifth year from inception. ABSLI is only the name of the Life Insurance Company and ABSLI Wealth Aspire Plan is only the name of the linked insurance contract and does not in any way indicate the quality of the contract, its future prospects or returns. The various funds offered under this contract are the names of the funds and do not in any way indicate the quality of these plans, their future prospects and returns. Past performance is not necessarily an indication of future performance. BEWARE OF SPURIOUS PHONE CALLS AND FICTITIOUS / FRAUDULENT OFFERS IRDAI or its officials do not involve in activities like selling insurance policies, announcing bonus or investment of premiums. Public receiving such phone calls are requested to lodge a police complaint. Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance Company Limited, Registered with Insurance Regulatory & Development Authority of India (IRDAI) as Life Insurance Company. Registered Office: One World Center Tower 1, 16th Floor, Jupiter Mill Compound, 841, Senapati Bapat Marg, Elphinstone Road, Mumbai - 400013. Toll free no. 1800-270-7000. https://lifeinsurance.adityabirlacapital.com/ | care.lifeinsurance@adityabirlacapital.com | CIN: U99999MH2000PLC128110 | Registration No. 109. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions please read the sales prospectus carefully before concluding a sale. Life insurance coverage is available in these products. The Trade Logo Aditya Birla Capital displayed above is owned by ADITYA BIRLA MANAGEMENT CORPORATION PRIVATE LIMITED (Trademark Owner) and used by ADITYA BIRLA SUN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED (ABSLI) under the License. UINs: ABSLI Super Term Plan (UIN 109N153V02), ABSLI Wealth Aspire Plan (UIN 109L100V06), ABSLI Assured Savings Plan (UIN 109N134V15). ADV/10/26-27/736.
Police Arrest Four Alleged Drug Peddlers, Seize Contraband in South Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Police arrested four alleged drug peddlers and seized around 1.1 kg of charas in four separate operations across south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Saturday. The operations were conducted by Police Stations Srigufwara, Bijbehara and Uttrasoo, along with Police Post Sangam. At Hatigam Crossing, a police team from Srigufwara apprehended Shabir Ahmad Khan, a resident []
Jammu Kashmir High Court Directs Police Protection for Couple Married Against Families
SRINAGAR: The Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has directed the police to provide adequate security to a couple who approached it apprehending physical violence and harassment from their relatives after marrying against their wishes. Allowing the plea for protection, Justice Shahzad Azeem, in an order dated October 23, directed the official respondents to ensure []
Mubarak Gul Says He Will Reveal Everything About NC on Nov 4 Amid General Secretary Row
Srinagar, Oct 31 : Senior National Conference leader Mubarak Gul today said he will break his silence over developments within the party at a press conference scheduled for November 4, amid questions over the party leaderships decision to retain Ali Mohammad Sagar as General Secretary. Gul told the nees agency Kashmir News Trust that he had maintained silence so far but would reveal everything about what is happening inside the National Conference when he addresses the media on November 4. His remarks came in response to a question about why Sagar had again been asked to continue as the partys General Secretary, despite his appointment to the post earlier this week. On October 27, NC president Farooq Abdullah appointed Gul as General Secretary after Sagar was inducted into the Omar Abdullah-led Council of Ministers. However, on October 30, the party issued a fresh order directing Sagar to continue in the organizational post until further orders, raising questions about the status of Guls appointment. The developments have unfolded amid discontent within the ruling party following the recent Cabinet expansion, in which several senior legislators were left out. Guls proposed press conference on November 4 is expected to provide further clarity on his position and his concerns over the partys internal affairs. [KNT]
Jammu, Oct 31: A woman has gone missing in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch district and is suspected to have crossed the Line of Control (LoC) into Pakistan-occupied Jammu-Kashmir (PoJK) along with eight goats, officials said on Saturday. Rubina Kousar, a resident of Karni village near the LoC, took the goats out for grazing on [] The post Missing Woman In J&K Suspected To Have Crossed LoC Into Pakistan appeared first on Northlines .
Jammu Kashmir Government Orders Posting of Newly Appointed Lecturers
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the posting of newly appointed Lecturers in Functional English in government higher secondary schools in Baramulla and Reasi districts with immediate effect. According to Government Order No. 465-JK(Edu) of 2026, issued by the School Education Department on October 30, Naseem Ahmad Khan has been posted at Higher []
My Fight is Against NCs U-turn on Article 370: MP Ruhullah Mehdi
SRINAGAR: National Conference (NC) Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday announced that he would resign from the party and his parliamentary seat on November 3, accusing the party leadership of abandoning its electoral commitments on Article 370 and other key issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing reporters, Ruhullah said his decision was []
Jammu Gears Up for Darbar Move; NH-44 Traffic Curbs on Oct 31, Nov 1
JAMMU, Oct 31: Jammu is being spruced up to welcome the government for the winter session as preparations for the biannual Darbar Move have entered the final stage, with beautification, road repairs and security arrangements being intensified ahead of the reopening of offices on November 2. Meanwhile, the Traffic Department has imposed a two-day restriction [] The post Jammu Gears Up for Darbar Move; NH-44 Traffic Curbs on Oct 31, Nov 1 appeared first on Northlines .
If Ruhullah leaves NC, he will go alone, party will remain unaffected: Javed Rana
Jammu, Oct 31: Jammu and Kashmir Minister Javed Ahmed Rana on Saturday said that if National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi decides to leave the party, he will go so alone, asserting that his departure would have no impact on the party or its organisation. Speaking to reporters in Jammu, Rana said the National Conference remained united and there is no resentment within the party. If Aga Sahib decides to leave, he will leave alone. Why would his departure affect the party? The organisation will remain united, Rana said. Dismissing reports of internal differences following the recent cabinet expansion, the minister said both the party and the government remained strong under their respective leaderships. I can say with complete confidence that there is no resentment. The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference is strong, the government under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is strong and the party organisation under Dr Farooq Abdullah stands united like a rock, he said. Rana, said some legislators might feel disappointed over not being accommodated in the Council of Ministers. Every MLA wants to become a minister, but the available positions are limited. Naturally, there may be disappointment among those who could not become ministers, he said. Expressing optimism over the restoration of statehood, Rana said Jammu and Kashmir would regain statehood soon, paving the way for the appointment of more ministers. InshaAllah, statehood will be restored very soon and more ministers will also be appointed, he added.(KNO)
Jammu Kashmir High Court Quashes Defamation Case Against Retired Police Officer
SRINAGAR: The Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has quashed a criminal defamation complaint against a retired police officer, holding that merely approaching a competent statutory authority with allegations against an individual cannot be made the basis of criminal prosecution, particularly when the law protects accusations made in good faith. Allowing a petition filed by []
Ladakh Continues Electrification Work in Remote Areas Amid Early Snowfall, Sub-Zero Temperatures
SRINAGAR: Electricity infrastructure works are continuing in remote and high-altitude areas of Ladakh despite early winter snowfall and sub-zero temperatures, as authorities work to strengthen power connectivity in difficult-to-reach settlements, including Nubra and the Siachen region. The ongoing operations come as harsh winter conditions put additional pressure on the Union Territorys electricity supply and lead []
NC Denies Rebellion After Legislators Meeting Over Cabinet Expansion
SRINAGAR, Oct 31: National Conference (NC) Kashmir Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir on Saturday dismissed reports of a revolt within the ruling party, calling a closed-door meeting of its legislators an informal gathering in a friendly atmosphere. Addressing a press conference, Mir said there was no rebellion against the party leadership or the government. [] The post NC Denies Rebellion After Legislators Meeting Over Cabinet Expansion appeared first on Northlines .
DSEK Asks CEOs to Return Late Applications for One-Time Qualification Exemption
SRINAGAR: The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has directed all Chief Education Officers (CEOs) to return applications received after the prescribed deadline for a one-time exemption to teaching and other staff who acquired higher educational qualifications through distance or online mode without obtaining prior permission from the Administrative Department. In a communication dated October []
UPI Payments Now Available for Online Bookings at Burj Khalifa, Singapore Attractions
NEW DELHI, Oct 31: Indian travellers can now use Unified Payments Interface (UPI) applications to book tickets online for major tourist attractions, including the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and three popular destinations at Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore, following the expansion of Indias digital payment system overseas. NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the international arm [] The post UPI Payments Now Available for Online Bookings at Burj Khalifa, Singapore Attractions appeared first on Northlines .
Omar Abdullah Cabinet Expansion: , !
Omar Abdullah Cabinet Expansion: , ! #omarabdullah #jammukashmir #jkcabinet #jammukashmirpolitics #politicalnews #ndtvindia $MetaTags$1#TV Clips3#Manogya Loiwal4#Rohit Kumar$MetaTags$
NC internal differences an exercise of democracy, no rebellion in party: Showkat Mir
Srinagar, Oct 31: National Conference (NC) Provisional President Showkat Mir on Saturday dismissed reports of rebellion and factionalism within the party, saying a meeting of party MLAs held recently was an internal exercise in democracy and there was no confrontation with the leadership. Showkat Mir said several party legislators had gathered in a friendly atmosphere to discuss their concerns and future challenges, asserting that no one had spoken against the party organisation or the government. There was no rebellion. They sat together in a friendly environment to discuss the challenges ahead. No one gave any statement against the organisation or the government, he said. His remarks came amid reports that 17 NC MLAs had held a meeting to discuss demands, including the removal of an adviser, reshuffling of four Cabinet members and an internal inquiry within the party. Mir said the legislators had decided to approach the party leadership through senior members to put forward their concerns, adding that social media had given the meeting a different interpretation.
Mubarak Gul to reveal everything about NC on November 4
Srinagar, Oct 31: Senior National Conference leader Mubarak Gul has said he will reveal details about developments within the party at a press conference on November 4, amid uncertainty over his appointment as General Secretary. Gul said he had so far maintained silence but would disclose everything about the developments within the party when he addresses the media, news agency KNT reported. Gul was responding to a question about the party leaderships decision to retain Ali Mohammad Sagar as General Secretary despite his appointment to the post earlier this week. On October 27, NC president Farooq Abdullah appointed Gul as General Secretary after Sagar was inducted into the Omar Abdullah-led Council of Ministers. However, on October 30, the party issued a fresh order directing Sagar to continue as General Secretary until further orders, raising questions over Guls appointment. The developments come amid reported discontent within the ruling party following the recent Cabinet expansion, which left several senior legislators out of the government. Guls November 4 press conference is expected to shed light on the controversy surrounding the partys organisational leadership and the ongoing developments within the NC.
Memorandum sent to NCs top brass? Srinagar, Oct 31: Legislators of the National Conference (NC), who are up in arms against the party leadership over Tuesdays cabinet reshuffle-cum-expansion, have prepared a memorandum listing a set of demands, including a cabinet reshuffle, intensified efforts for the restoration of statehood and Article 370, and the time-bound implementation [] The post Apart from cabinet reshuffle, NC MLAs seek intensification of struggle for statehood, Article 370, time-bound implementation of 2024 manifesto appeared first on Northlines .
Abrogation Of Article 370 Integrated J
SRINAGAR, Oct 31: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the abrogation of Article 370 had integrated Kashmir with the rest of the country, describing it as one of the major achievements of the Narendra Modi government. Addressing a gathering ahead of flagging off the Run for Unity in New Delhi on the [] The post Abrogation Of Article 370 Integrated J&K With India: Amit Shah appeared first on Northlines .
EOW Kashmir Chargesheets Two for Cheating Job Seekers of Rs 15 Lakh
SRINAGAR, Oct 31: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet against two persons for allegedly cheating job seekers of over Rs 15 lakh on the pretext of arranging overseas employment. The chargesheet in FIR No. 32/2026, registered under Sections 420 and 120-B of the IPC and Sections 10/24 [] The post EOW Kashmir Chargesheets Two for Cheating Job Seekers of Rs 15 Lakh appeared first on Northlines .
NC MLAs Seek Cabinet Reshuffle, Time-Bound Manifesto Implementation, Intensified Statehood Struggle
Srinagar, Oct 31 : Legislators of the National Conference (NC), who are up in arms against the party leadership over Tuesday's cabinet reshuffle-cum-expansion, have prepared a memorandum listing a set of demands, including a cabinet reshuffle, intensified efforts for the restoration of statehood and Article 370, and the time-bound implementation of the party's 2024 election manifesto. Sources told news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the memorandum was sent to the residences of the party's top brass. However, the NC is yet to confirm receipt of the memorandum. The memorandum was drafted during the meeting of 18 MLAs at the residence of NC MLA Lolab Qaiser Jamsheed Lone on Friday afternoon. According to sources, the legislators have called for the time-bound implementation of the party's election manifesto. The memorandum also seeks an intensified political struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood and Article 370. The legislators have further sought the removal of advisor Nasir Aslam Wani and ministers who have completed two years in office. According to sources, the party legislators have also demanded a comprehensive restructuring of the Cabinet and implementation of consensus reached at Dachigam. At a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on June 3 at Dachigam, party legislators had questioned the functioning of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and ministers Javid Rana and Satish Sharma. While Satish Sharma was dropped in the recent cabinet reshuffle, Javid Rana's role was curtailed after several key portfolios were taken away from him. However, the Deputy Chief Minister retained the Roads & Buildings Department & Industries and Commerce Department. A legislator, who is part of the group, claimed that they have the support of more than 25 legislators and that their only intention is to reform the National Conference. We are the National Conference, and we have given our blood and sweat to the party for the past 30 years. We will not allow the party to be hijacked by a few people or turned into a corporate entity, he said. Another legislator alleged that the minister who faced severe criticism during the Dachigam meeting managed to retain the key portfolios(KNO)
Pahalgam Attack Probe Chief Sandeep Chaudhary Gets Home Minister
JAMMU, Oct 31: Deputy Inspector General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Sandeep Chaudhary, who led the investigation into the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, has been awarded the Union Home Ministers Medal for Excellence in Investigation (Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak) for 2026. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the awardees on Saturday, recognising Chaudhary [] The post Pahalgam Attack Probe Chief Sandeep Chaudhary Gets Home Ministers Medal appeared first on Northlines .
LG Sinha flags off Run for Unity at SKICC
Omar Abdullah Faces Trouble As 19 NC MLAs Reject Farooq Abdullah's Offer, Demand Cabinet Reshuffle
The National Conference (NC) is facing fresh trouble after 19 of its MLAs, including independent legislators, held a secret meeting in Srinagar and raised concerns over Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's leadership. The legislators have reportedly demanded a cabinet reshuffle and the
EOW Kashmir Chargesheets Two in 15 Lakh Overseas Job Fraud Case
Srinagar, Oct 31: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet in case FIR No. 32/2026 under Sections 420 and 120-B IPC, 10/24 of the Emigration Act before the Hon'ble Court of PT&E, Srinagar, against Sajad Abdullah S/o Mohammad Abdullah Sheikh R/o Hamdaniya Colony, Bemina, Srinagar, and Jahangir Ahmad Tanky S/o Hafizullah Tanky R/o Sheshgari Mohalla, Khanyar, Srinagar. The case was registered following complaints alleging that the accused, proprietors of M/s Al-Aqsa GlobalServices Pvt. Ltd., Moomin-Abad, Lane-04, Batamaloo, Srinagar, lured people with promises of lucrativeoverseas employment in reputed foreign companies and collected advance payments exceeding Rs. 15 lakhs. However, the promised jobs were not provided, and cheques issued towards refunds were dishonoured due to insufficient funds. Investigation revealed that the consultancy was registered as an excursion agent for tour and travel services and not as a recruiting agent, and was operating without the requisite registration for overseas recruitment. It was further established that both accused received lakhs of rupees in their respective personal bank accounts from complainants on the pretext of providing overseas employment, but failed to fulfil their promises. Despite sustained efforts, accused Jahangir Ahmad Tanky could not be traced and has been absconding since 2025. The investigation was concluded as proved, and the chargesheet has been filed before the competent court for judicial determination. SSP EOW Kashmir advises job seekers to verify recruitment agency credentials and avoid paying advance fees to unauthorised agencies.
Vigilance Awareness Week at KU
Curbing corruption collective responsibility SRINAGAR: The University of Kashmir (KU) organised an event at its Main Campus to observe Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 themed Probity for Prosperity with a focus on promoting integrity, transparency, accountability and ethical practices in public administration. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of honesty and responsibility in []
EOW Kashmir Files Chargesheet Against Two in Rs 15 Lakh Overseas Job Fraud Case
SRINAGAR: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet against two Srinagar residents accused of cheating job seekers of more than Rs 15 lakh by promising them overseas employment in reputed foreign companies. The chargesheet in FIR No. 32/2026, registered under Sections 420 and 120-B of the IPC and []
Director reviews facilities at various city colleges
SRINAGAR: Director Colleges, Professor (Dr.) Twinkle Suri, accompanied by Professor (Dr.) Seema Naz, Nodal Principal, Kashmir Division Colleges, visited three colleges in Srinagar to review the facilities available and assess their overall functioning. Professor (Dr.) Suri began her visit at Government College of Education (IASE), M.A. Road, Srinagar. She subsequently visited Sri Pratap College (SP []
SKUAST-K, KVK Sgr advance yellow revolution through improved oilseed varieties
SRINAGAR: With a focus on boosting domestic oilseed production and advancing edible oil self-sufficiency, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Srinagar, SKUAST-Kashmir, is promoting improved mustard varieties through Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) under the National Mission on Edible OilsOilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) and the National Food Security Mission (NFSM)-Oilseeds. Since the launch of NMEO-Oilseeds on October 3, 2024, KVK []
Police organise debate competition on nation-building, integrity, corruption
BARAMULLA: In a significant initiative to promote civic responsibility, ethical values and public awareness, J&K Police in Baramulla organised a debate competition at Government Degree College (GDC), Kreei. The competition revolved around the themes Role of Police in Nation-Building and Corruption. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, civil society representatives and students, providing []
Secy SW calls for timely delivery of welfare benefits
SRINAGAR: Secretary, Social Welfare, Dr. Sagar D. Doifode on Friday chaired an exclusive review meeting regarding functioning of the Social Welfare Department, Kashmir Division, at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar. The meeting was attended by the Director, Social Welfare Kashmir; Director, Planning, Social Welfare Department; Director, Finance, Social Welfare Department; Deputy Director, Directorate of Social Welfare []
Shopian freezes at 0.5C as night temperatures dip across Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 31: Night temperatures continued to remain low across Kashmir, with Srinagar recording a minimum of 3 degrees Celsius, while Shopian was the coldest place in the Valley at 0.5 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department. The data accessed by the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) shows that the summer capital recorded a minimum temperature of 3 degrees Celsius against the normal of 3.7 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam recorded 0.2 degrees Celsius against the normal of 1.4 degrees Celsius. Gulmarg recorded a low of 2.1 degrees Celsius against the normal of 2.3 degrees Celsius, while Qazigund and Kupwara recorded minimum temperatures of 2.6 and 2.3 degrees Celsius, respectively. Among other stations, Bandipora recorded a minimum of 3.5 degrees Celsius, Anantnag 3.2 degrees Celsius, Baramulla 4.8 degrees Celsius, Pulwama 1.4 degrees Celsius and Sonamarg 1.1 degrees Celsius. Shopian recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 0.5 degrees Celsius among the Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) in the Valley. Meanwhile, Jammu recorded a minimum temperature of 15.8 degrees Celsius, while Katra registered 13.9 degrees Celsius, Kathua 14.5 degrees Celsius and Bhaderwah 5.4 degrees Celsius. The weather remained largely dry across Jammu and Kashmir during the past 24 hours, with Reasi recording the maximum rainfall of 0.5 mm, the department said.(KNO)
Abrogation of Article 370 integrated Kashmir with India: Amit Shah
Srinagar, Oct 31: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the abrogation of Article 370 had integrated Kashmir with the rest of the country, describing it as one of the major achievements of the Narendra Modi government. Addressing a gathering ahead of flagging off the Run for Unity in New Delhi on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Shah said several significant decisions had been taken during Prime Minister Narendra Modis tenure, including the abrogation of Article 370, elimination of Naxalism and implementation of the One Nation, One Tax system. When we succeed in building a drug-free India, it will be the most significant achievement among all these initiatives for the countrys youth and its future, he said. Shah set December 31, 2029, as the target for making India completely drug-free, saying the vision of a Viksit Bharat begins with the creation of a Nasha-Mukt Bharat. He said Indias linguistic, cultural, traditional and religious diversity is its strength and reflected the message of national unity associated with Sardar Patel. Referring to the governments fight against Naxalism, Shah said India has moved beyond the shadow of Naxalism on March 31 this year and was now moving towards becoming a drug-free nation. He said collective efforts are needed to protect the countrys youth from drugs and build a stronger and more prosperous India.(KNO)
Srinagar: Night temperatures continued to remain low across Kashmir, with Srinagar recording a minimum of 3 degrees Celsius, while Shopian was the coldest place in the Valley at 0.5 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department. The data accessed shows that the summer capital recorded a minimum temperature of 3 degrees Celsius against the normal []
Darbar Move Begins as Government Offices Shift to Jammu
SRINAGAR: The bi-annual Darbar Move from Srinagar to Jammu begins on Saturday, with the authorities imposing a two-day restriction on the movement of heavy and medium goods vehicles along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway (NH-44) to facilitate the transfer of government offices and employees to the winter capital. The restrictions will remain in force on October []
7 injured in Samba as bus rams into Truck
Samba, Oct 31 : At least seven persons were injured after a bus and a truck collided head-on in the Sandbari area of Samba district on Saturday, officials said. An official said that the collision triggered a rescue operation, with local residents rushing to the spot and helping evacuate the injured passengers from the bus. The injured were shifted to District Hospital Samba for treatment, while their identities are being ascertained, the official said. Police have registered a case and further proceedings are underway.(KNO)
SDA Orders Removal Of Illegal Parking From Sonamarg Green Areas
SRINAGAR: The Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) has directed the immediate removal of vehicles parked illegally in green areas, open meadows and other ecologically sensitive locations across the tourist destination, citing the need to protect its fragile environment and natural landscape. In an order issued on October 30, 2026, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the []
Trouble In Paradise? 24 MLAs Raise Banner Of Revolt Against Omar Abdullah
Sources said the top demand of the rebel MLAs is the removal of the Chief Minister's advisor and some ministers.
PM Modi pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary
NEW DELHI: ( Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary, saying he dedicated his life to the creation of a strong, prosperous, and capable India. The prime minister also said that Patels sacrifice and devotion in the service of India serve as a great source of []
Three Injured in Truck-Car Collision in Qazigund
SRINAGAR: Three persons, including a husband and wife, were injured after a truck collided with a Santro car in Qazigund area of south Kashmirs Kulgam district on Friday evening. An official said the accident involved a truck bearing registration number JK02AD-0437 and a Santro car bearing registration number JK19-0717, leaving three occupants injured. The injured []
KVK Srinagar promotes improved mustard varieties to boost oilseed production
Srinagar, Oct 30: With a focus on boosting domestic oilseed production and advancing edible oil self-sufficiency, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Srinagar, SKUAST-Kashmir, is promoting improved mustard varieties through Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) under the National Mission on Edible OilsOilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) and the National Food Security Mission (NFSM)-Oilseeds. Since the launch of NMEO-Oilseeds on October 3, 2024, KVK Srinagar has been promoting improved oilseed production technologies to strengthen the Yellow Revolution, reduce dependence on imports and conserve valuable foreign exchange. During the Rabi seasons of 20242026, the Kendra organised a series of input-cum-seed distribution programmes under the ICAR-sponsored CFLD programme on oilseeds. The programmes focused on the distribution of high-yielding, climate-resilient, certified seeds of the latest released SKUAST-K oilseed varieties, Shalimar Sarson-2 and Shalimar Sarson-4. Under the leadership of Prof. and Head Dr. S. A. Simnani, the initiative covered the identified oilseed clusters of Theed, Harwan, Khonmoh, Balhama, Tailbal, Chaterhama and Ranbirgarh across four blocks of Srinagar district. The demonstrations provide farmers with an opportunity to observe the performance of improved varieties and help bridge the yield gap in the transition from traditional to improved varieties. Prof. Simnani emphasised the need to bring winter-fallow lands under oilseed cultivation to expand the area under oilseeds and enhance domestic production. Alongside the Rabi-season CFLD programme, KVK Srinagar also organised the Khet Bachao Abhiyan to create awareness among farmers about integrated nutrient management (INM), natural farming practices, soil testing and the balanced application of fertilisers based on soil-test recommendations. The initiative focused on maintaining soil health and enhancing crop productivity.
KVK Gbal strengthens scientific sheep farming under SARAL project
Ganderbal, Oct 30: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal organised a five-day training programme for sheep rearers under the SARAL initiative to strengthen farmers technical capacity, promote scientific livestock management and enhance the productivity and profitability of sheep-rearing enterprises in the district. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. S. Ganesan, Assistant Commissioner, Central Poultry Training Centre, Gurugram. The Director, Regional Fodder Station, Srinagar, attended as the Chief Guest, while Professor Faheema Mushtaq, Professor, SKUAST-K, was the Guest of Honour. Welcoming the guests and participating farmers, Dr. Shaheen Farooq, Scientist (Animal Science), KVK Ganderbal, highlighted the importance of scientific sheep husbandry, regular capacity-building programmes and the adoption of improved livestock production technologies for sustainable rural livelihoods. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ajaz A. Malik, Head, KVK Ganderbal, emphasised the need to strengthen the technical knowledge of sheep rearers, improve animal health and nutrition, ensure timely vaccination, and promote scientific breeding and management practices. He noted that such initiatives under SARAL could help farmers enhance livestock productivity, reduce avoidable economic losses and make sheep rearing a more remunerative and sustainable livelihood enterprise. Expert lectures were delivered by Dr. S. Ganesan; Dr. Imran Bashir, Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (VAS), Sheep Husbandry Department; and Dr. Shaheen Farooq, Scientist (Animal Science), KVK Ganderbal. The sessions focused on strengthening farmers understanding of scientific sheep-rearing practices. As part of the programme, fodder seed kits and vaccines against enterotoxaemia were distributed among participating sheep farmers to encourage improved fodder production and strengthen preventive animal healthcare practices.
KU marks vigilance awareness week, calls for end to corruption
Srinagar Oct 30: The University of Kashmir (KU) organised an event at its Main Campus to observe Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 themed 'Probity for Prosperity' with a focus on promoting integrity, transparency, accountability and ethical practices in public administration. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of honesty and responsibility in public service and encourage employees to uphold ethical standards in their professional conduct. In her message, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan stressed on the importance of maintaining transparency and integrity in all aspects of institutional functioning. She said that public institutions must promote a culture of fairness, accountability and responsible conduct. Integrity and transparency must guide every decision we make in public service, she said. Speaking on the occasion, Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, said that accountability and adherence to established rules and procedures are essential for the effective functioning of any institution. A transparent and accountable work culture begins with each one of us taking responsibility for our actions, he said. Dean, School of Law KU, Prof. Shahnaz, highlighted the importance of legal awareness and ethical conduct in strengthening institutional accountability. She said that respect for the rule of law and adherence to laid down procedures are necessary for ensuring transparency in public institutions. SSP ACB Srinagar, Manzoor Ahmad Mir, spoke about the role of the Anti-Corruption Bureau in addressing corruption and promoting accountability. He emphasized the importance of public awareness and collective responsibility in preventing corruption. The event concluded with a pledge, led by Prof. Iqbal, to uphold integrity, promote transparency and discharge official responsibilities with honesty and accountability. It was attended by various deans, heads of departments, University officers, and non-teaching staff of the campus. The event proceedings were conducted by Sheikh Asif, Joint Registrar KU, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Ashfaq Zarri, Special Secretary to the Vice-Chancellor, KU.
NIT Srinagar wins first prize at Vibrant India 2026 in New Delhi
Srinagar, Oct, 30: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has won First Prize for Outstanding Contribution to Engineering Education and Academic Development at 12th Vibrant India 2026 Most Vibrant Expo on Government Achievements, held at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi, from October 23 to 25. Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Aban Habib and Shebaan Habib represented NIT Srinagar at the three-day national exhibition, showcasing an innovative drone prototype designed for high-altitude and low-temperature environments. The demonstration highlighted the institute's efforts to develop indigenous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies suited to the demanding environmental conditions of the Himalayan region and other high-altitude areas. Organised by NNS Media Group as part of Meri Dilli Utsav, Vibrant India 2026 brought together government organisations, public sector enterprises, institutions, and other stakeholders to showcase achievements and initiatives across various sectors. The exhibition featured displays relating to Indian Railways, mines, coal, Jal Shakti, tourism, agriculture, animal husbandry, dairy, fisheries, and other areas of national importance. The drone innovation showcased by the NIT Srinagar team addresses key engineering challenges associated with operating unmanned aerial vehicles in high-altitude environments, where low temperatures and reduced air density can affect battery performance, propulsion efficiency, flight endurance, and structural reliability. The technology reflects the growing importance of indigenous drone development for specialised applications in mountainous and remote regions. Such technologies have potential applications in infrastructure inspection, environmental monitoring, high-altitude observation, and other operations requiring reliable aerial systems in challenging conditions. Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Anurag Misra, Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman, and Head of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Centre (IEDC), Prof. Babar Ahmad, congratulated the team on the achievement. They appreciated the teams efforts in showcasing the Institutes engineering capabilities on a national platform and highlighted the importance of innovation, indigenous technology development, and industry-oriented research in addressing real-world challenges.
NIT Srinagar's young hackers uncover vulnerabilities in Bug Hunt 2026
Srinagar, Oct, 30: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar organised a five-day Cybersecurity Awareness and Bug Hunt 2026 from October 25 to 30, providing students a platform to enhance their cybersecurity skills and identify potential digital security vulnerabilities. Organised by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Student Chapter of the Departments of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) and Information Technology (IT), the initiative featured expert interactions, awareness sessions and a hands-on bug hunt competition. Director, NIT Srinagar Prof. Anurag Misra highlighted the growing importance of cybersecurity and encouraged students to strengthen their technical capabilities and contribute towards building a secure digital environment. Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman and Dean Research and Consultancy Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir also emphasised the importance of technological innovation, research and practical learning. Jyoti Kushwaha, Scientist-D and Joint Director, Electronics and IT Department, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), attended the programme as Chief Guest. She stressed the need for digital awareness, safe online practices and greater vigilance against emerging cyber threats. During the Bug Hunt competition, Team 404 Found, comprising B.Tech students Piyush Dhakad, Vansh Saini and Prince, secured first position and received a cash prize of 10,000. Team Pasikdar, comprising M.Tech students Younis Ayoub Parray, Malik Tafheem and Iram Naseer, secured second position with a cash prize of 7,500, while Karuturi Gowri Shankar secured third position and received 5,000. Three participants, Pranjul Khankriyal, Veer Rastogi and Mohsin Wani, received consolation prizes. Team CodeSaga, comprising Ritik Bhardwaj, Mohammed Anas and Dashmesh Deep Singh, was given special recognition for identifying and reporting a security vulnerability. Dr. Ahsan Chishti, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Dr. Iqra Altaf Gillani, Nodal Officer, BIS, and Dr. Sparsh Sharma, Deputy Chief Information Security Officer (DCISO), guided the initiative, which was led by Disha Mehra, a fourth-year CSE student. The programme also featured interactive activities and cybersecurity-based quizzes to familiarise students with responsible digital practices and emerging security challenges. The organisers said the initiative aimed to promote ethical hacking, practical cybersecurity skills and responsible vulnerability reporting among students.
J&K constitutes four-tier mechanism to implement Circular Economy Policy 2026
Srinagar, Oct 30: The Jammu and Kashmir government has constituted a four-tier institutional mechanism comprising a UT-level Circular Economy Mission, Steering Committee, District Circular Economy Cells and Urban Local Body (ULB)-level committees for the implementation of the Jammu and Kashmir Circular Economy Policy, 2026. According to an order, the mechanism has been established to ensure coordinated implementation of the policy, strengthen waste management systems, promote resource recovery and facilitate the development of circular economy-based enterprises and livelihoods across the Union Territory. The Jammu and Kashmir Circular Economy Mission will function as the apex body, providing overall supervision and reviewing the progress of policy implementation. It will meet at least once every six months and review inter-departmental coordination, employment and livelihood targets, financial and administrative bottlenecks, and implementation-related issues. The Mission will also guide the implementation of the Circular, Circular+ and Circular++ frameworks and issue directions to departments and agencies to ensure convergence in the execution of the policy. A Steering Committee has also been constituted to oversee the operational implementation of the policy. It will meet at least once every quarter and review progress, finalise implementation guidelines, standard operating procedures, model bylaws and reporting formats. The committee will also examine the classification of Urban Local Bodies under different circular economy frameworks, review detailed project reports and convergence of schemes, and assess proposals related to public-private partnerships, viability gap funding, extended producer responsibility and user charges. It will further monitor circular public procurement, digital reporting, job creation, livelihood integration and enterprise development, besides reviewing the performance of districts and ULBs. At the district level, Circular Economy Cells will be established to prepare district-specific project proposals, coordinate land identification and local clearances, and facilitate convergence between urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions. These cells will identify district-level material flows and circular economy clusters and coordinate waste streams related to tourism, horticulture, rural and urban sectors. Their responsibilities will also include monitoring source segregation, dry-waste aggregation and wet-waste processing, besides facilitating the participation of self-help groups, registration of workers and livelihood integration. The district cells will meet at least once every quarter and submit quarterly progress reports. At the grassroots level, ULB-level Circular Economy Committees will be responsible for implementing source segregation and collection systems, identifying bulk waste generators and ensuring the proper aggregation and channelisation of dry waste through authorised channels. The committees will also oversee wet-waste processing through decentralised or centralised models, implementation of user charges, maintenance of waste management and worker-related data, and promotion of circular procurement and local offtake. They will coordinate awareness and behaviour-change activities, address grievances related to service delivery and submit monthly reports to the Housing and Urban Development Department. The order further states that all departments and agencies will implement the policy within their existing statutory and administrative mandates. It clarifies that no expenditure will be incurred without the sanction of the competent authority and that all projects must comply with applicable laws, environmental standards, financial rules, procurement procedures and statutory clearance requirements. The constitution of the institutional mechanism will not, by itself, create any new post, financial liability or contractual obligation. The Housing and Urban Development Department has been authorised to issue further clarifications, guidelines and amendments required for operationalising the order and will also submit an annual implementation report to the government.
No land, no home, no rest: Nomadic tribal families yearn for rights
Budgam, Oct 30: A month-long journey on foot, seven months of life in tents, freezing nights without adequate blankets and the constant fear of losing their only source of livelihood. This is the painful reality of nomadic tribal families from Rajouri district who migrate to the Kashmir Valley every summer along with their families and livestock in search of grazing pastures. For these families, migration is not a choice of comfort but a necessity for survival. Their lives revolve around their livestock, and every seasonal journey brings new hardships, sacrifices and uncertainty. As October draws to a close, these families are once again preparing to return to their native villages in Rajouri after spending nearly seven months in the Kashmir Valley. However, the journey back home is as exhausting as the journey that brought them here in May. Noor Alam, a nomadic tribal from Rajouri district, said it takes nearly a month to travel on foot with their livestock from Rajouri to Kashmir. After spending seven months in the Valley, they have to undertake the same exhausting journey back home. We migrated from Rajouri to Kashmir in May with our families and livestock. We spent nearly seven months here. It takes us around one month to reach Kashmir on foot with our animals, and another month to return to our native village, Alam said. Living in temporary tents, these families face the harsh realities of falling temperatures, inadequate bedding and a shortage of firewood. Their small children are forced to sleep in tents as the cold intensifies, while their parents struggle to arrange even the basic necessities of daily life. We are facing tremendous difficulties because of the cold weather. We live in tents, and our small children also have to sleep in these conditions. We do not have enough firewood to prepare tea and rice, which are our daily meals. We have brought only a few blankets with us, and it becomes extremely difficult to spend the nights, Alam said. For many families, a warm meal, a proper roof and a comfortable night's sleep remain distant dreams. While most of their livestock has been sent back to Rajouri, some family members continue to stay in Kashmir to work as labourers so that they can earn enough to support their families. Their struggle does not end with the completion of the migration season. Even in their native villages, many families have no permanent homes and continue to live in temporary shelters. We do not have our own house in our native village. We have constructed temporary accommodation, but we do not have a permanent place to live. Some of our family members are still in Kashmir, working as labourers to earn a livelihood for the family, he said. For Alam and many other tribal families, the most painful part of their struggle is the absence of land ownership and permanent housing. He said several families have been living on forest land for generations but are still waiting for recognition of their eligible rights under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. We do not own any land. We are living on forest land and have already submitted documents to the concerned Revenue Department to seek our rights under the Forest Rights Act. We want land of our own and a permanent house where our children can live safely, Alam said. He appealed to the government to ensure that eligible tribal families receive their legal rights under the Act and are provided assistance for constructing permanent houses. Such support, he said, could bring relief to thousands of poor tribal families across Jammu and Kashmir who continue to struggle for basic necessities. The hardships of seasonal migration are not limited to adults. Children from nomadic families also face uncertainty in their education as they move from one district to another with their parents. Alam said the absence of revenue records has also created difficulties for some families in obtaining Scheduled Tribe certificates, affecting their children's access to scholarships and other government welfare schemes. Despite these difficulties, children from nomadic families continue their studies in government schools in Kashmir and seasonal schools functioning in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir from May to October. For Mohammad Rubani, a school-going child from a nomadic tribal family, his stay in Kashmir was not only about migration but also about education, friendship and memories that he will carry back to Rajouri. Rubani said he studied at a government school in Budran village of Budgam district during the migration season, where he received free education and midday meals. We were studying at the government school in Budran village. The school provided us with free education and midday meals. We did not have to spend even a single rupee on our studies. We received a good education and also made new friends there, he said. However, as he prepares to return to Rajouri, the young boy is saddened by the thought of leaving behind his classmates and friends. I will miss my classmates and friends at the government school in Budran. I will never forget the time I spent with them. The people of Kashmir gave us so much love and affection. I will always remember these days, Rubani said. His words reflect another side of seasonal migration children who make friends, attend schools and build memories in Kashmir, only to leave everything behind when their families begin the return journey. For Alam, every migration season brings sleepless nights and endless responsibilities. While other people rest after a day's work, nomadic families remain alert through the night to protect their livestock from wild animals and stray dogs. Their animals are not merely possessions; they are their only source of income and the foundation of their family's survival. We cannot sleep properly when we migrate to Kashmir with our livestock. We have to remain awake throughout the night to protect our animals from wild animals and dogs. We have to perform this duty every night because our entire livelihood depends on our livestock, Alam said. Despite living through such difficult circumstances, Alam says his biggest dream is to see his children receive a good education and achieve respectable positions in society. We want our children to become doctors, engineers, IAS and KAS officers. This is the dream of every tribal family involved in migration. We depend entirely on our livestock for our livelihood. We work hard and face hardships, but we want our children to have a better future, he said. For these nomadic families, the journey between Rajouri and Kashmir is not simply a seasonal movement in search of grazing land. It is a journey marked by poverty, separation, sleepless nights and sacrifices that often remain unseen. As they leave the Valley and begin another month-long journey towards their native villages, their hopes remain tied to a simple demand a permanent home, recognition of their legal rights, access to basic facilities and an opportunity for their children to live a life better than their own. Behind every migrating family is a story of struggle. Behind every tent is a dream of a permanent home. And behind every sleepless night is a parent hoping that their children will one day escape the hardships that have defined generations of their lives.
J&K Cabinet approves two new industrial estates
Srinagar, Oct 30: The Council of Ministers, recently chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has approved the establishment of two new Industrial Estates in Jammu & Kashmir, involving a combined investment of Rs 162.72 crore. The approved projects include a New Industrial Estate at Pehlipora, Lar, Ganderbal, at a cost of Rs 60.92 crore, and Industrial Estate Bhagthali (Part-II), Kathua, at a cost of Rs 101.80 crore. The Chief Minister said the projects would strengthen industrial infrastructure, attract investment, promote local manufacturing and create new employment opportunities for the youth. He added that these initiatives would contribute to sustained economic growth and further strengthen the industrial ecosystem across Jammu & Kashmir.
Focus on digital, social media for wider outreach: Dir Info to DICs
Srinagar, Oct 30: Director Information, Mamta Yadav on Friday chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the functioning of District Information Centres (DICs) across Kashmir Division, with a focus on strengthening district-level information dissemination, improving media coordination and ensuring effective coverage of government activities and public welfare initiatives. Joint Director Information (Hqrs), Dr Zahoor Ahmad Raina; Joint Director Information Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari; Deputy Director Information (PR/AV), Javid Ahmad Rather; Deputy Director (PR) Kashmir, Mohammad Rafiq Zullah; Deputy Director (Hqrs), Kashmir, Zubair Ahmad; Cultural Officer, Field Publicity Officer, District Information Officers of Kashmir division and other concerned officers also attended the meeting. During the meeting, the Director took a detailed assessment of the functioning of District Information Centres, reviewing their publicity activities, media outreach, field-level coverage, infrastructure, manpower requirements and overall performance. Stressing the importance of District Information Centres as the grassroots communication network of the DIPR, Mamta Yadav said that these centres have a significant role in ensuring that information about government policies, programmes, developmental initiatives and public welfare schemes reaches the people in a timely, accurate and accessible manner. DICs are the face of the DIPR at the grassroots level. Their role goes beyond disseminating information; they serve as an important link between the administration, media and the public. It is imperative that every district unit functions with dedication, professionalism and a clear sense of responsibility, she said. The Director underscored the need to make publicity and information dissemination more dynamic, result-oriented and responsive to the changing media landscape. She called upon the district officers to effectively utilise digital and social media platforms alongside conventional modes of publicity to ensure wider outreach and greater public engagement. Timely and credible information is the foundation of effective public communication. Our focus should be on taking verified information to the people through appropriate platforms, while ensuring that the achievements and initiatives of the Government receive adequate and factual coverage, Mamta Yadav remarked. She also stressed the importance of proactive media engagement and maintaining cordial and professional relations with local media organisations. She called for improved coordination with district administrations and concerned departments to ensure comprehensive coverage of important government events, public outreach programmes and developmental activities. Highlighting the need for innovation in departmental publicity, the Director encouraged the district units to explore local success stories, developmental milestones, cultural heritage and public-oriented initiatives for wider dissemination through print, electronic and digital media. Every district has its own stories of development, innovation and public participation. Our officers must identify these stories and bring them to the forefront. Effective communication should not remain limited to official events but must also reflect the impact of government initiatives on the ground, she added. Mamta Yadav also called for greater accountability, regular monitoring and adherence to professional standards in the discharge of official responsibilities. She directed the concerned officers to maintain regular communication with headquarters, ensure timely submission of reports and strengthen the quality and consistency of departmental publicity. Reiterating her commitment towards strengthening the DIPRs institutional capacity, Mamta Yadav said that a coordinated, responsive and technology-driven approach would be central to making departmental communication more effective and people-centric. She urged all district units to work with renewed commitment and ensure that the DIPR continues to serve as a reliable bridge between the Government and the people.
Srinagar, Oct 30: The biannual Darbar Move is set to begin on Saturday, with offices from Srinagar's Civil Secretariat shifting to Jammu for the winter season 2026-27. The authorities have imposed restrictions on the movement of goods carriers on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway for two days October 31 and November 1 to facilitate the smooth and hassle-free movement of the convoy of Secretariat employees. All offices are scheduled to reopen in Jammu on November 2. Officials said no up movement of HMVs/MMVs (goods carriers) from Jakheni, Udhampur towards Srinagar shall be allowed on Saturday and Sunday. Furthermore, no goods carriers shall be allowed to proceed from Jakheni (Udhampur) towards Ramban, Banihal, Srinagar, etc., or from Qazigund towards Banihal, Ramban, Udhampur, etc., after 0200 hours on October 31 and November 1. However, down HMVs from Qazigund towards Jammu shall be allowed in a regulated manner. Goods carrier operators carrying fresh, perishable goods and livestock have been advised to load their vehicles accordingly, keeping the traffic restrictions in view. Two categories of offices will move to Jammu those moving in full and those moving in camp. All departments of the Civil Secretariat will move to Jammu in full, including the Chief Minister's Secretariat; Personal Staff of Advisor to Chief Minister; Department of Civil Aviation; Civil Secretariat Dispensary; Security Staff of the Civil Secretariat; Civil Secretariat Treasury; and the offices of the Financial Commissioner, Revenue; Principal Chief Conservator of Forests; Chief Electoral Officer; Director, Information; Director General, Accounts and Treasuries; Transport Commissioner; Chief Executive Officer, J&K e-Governance Agency; Mission Director, ICDS; Controller, Drug and Food Control Organization; Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration, and J&K Employees State Insurance Society, among others. The offices that will move in camp include the Commissioner, State Taxes Department; Excise Commissioner, J&K, with skeletal staff; Director General, Economics and Statistics; Director General, Audit and Inspection; Director, AYUSH, J&K; Chief Architect, J&K; Registrar, Cooperatives, J&K; J&K Services Selection Board, with staff to be determined by the Chairman; Chairman, J&K Pollution Control Committee; Managing Directors of all PSUs, with skeletal staff; J&K Housing Board; Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K; Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants); Director, Fisheries, J&K; Directorate of National Health Mission, J&K; Chief Executive Officer, Mission Youth, J&K; Director Colleges, Higher Education Department, and SCERT, among others. Offices moving in camp will carry only 33 per cent of their staff strength or 10 officials, whichever is less, unless specifically indicated otherwise. The government has fixed a uniform Special Move Travel Allowance of Rs 25,000 for each employee moving with the Darbar Move. However, employees who do not move before or within the prescribed date will not be entitled to the allowance.
Cabinet expansion triggers dissent in NC
18 MLAs hold closed-door meeting, demand removal of Advisor, 4 ministers, allege corruption by ministers Jammu Tawi, Oct 30: The growing discontent within the ruling National Conference (NC) over Tuesdays cabinet expansion-cum-reshuffle came to the fore on Friday as 18 legislators, including 17 NC MLAs and one Independent supporting the government, held a [] The post Cabinet expansion triggers dissent in NC appeared first on Northlines .
Sagar to continue as NC General Secretary
Srinagar, Oct 30: National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah has ordered that Ali Mohammad Sagar - inducted as a minister in the recently expanded cabinet - shall continue to function as the partys General Secretary until further orders. An order issued by the NC chief reaffirms Sagars continuation in the key organisational position, days after senior party leader and Eidgah MLA Mubarak Gul was appointed to the post following Ali's induction into the Council of Ministers. On October 27, Gul was formally announced as the new General Secretary and was also seated in the General Secretarys chair by Dr Farooq Abdullah at the party headquarters in Srinagar. He was subsequently felicitated and garlanded by party leaders and workers at a function organised to mark his appointment. However, the fresh order confirming Sagars continuation has raised questions over the status of Guls appointment and the circumstances surrounding the latest organisational decision. Although Gul had publicly thanked the party leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility, the latest order has reaffirmed Sagars position, effectively creating uncertainty over the leadership arrangement. The development comes amid growing disquiet within the ruling party following the recent Cabinet expansion. Notably, Gul was also among the NC legislators who attended a meeting in Srinagar on Friday, where 17 NC MLAs and an Independent legislator reportedly discussed their concerns over the Cabinet reshuffle and the distribution of ministerial berths. The meeting, held at the residence of an NC legislator, brought together several leaders who were either left out of the Cabinet or had expressed dissatisfaction over the reshuffle. The latest order on the General Secretarys position comes against this backdrop of organisational and political developments within the National Conference.
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas : LG urges youth to uphold spirit of national unity
Srinagar, Oct 30: On the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday paid tributes to Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, on the eve of his birth anniversary. In a message, the Lieutenant Governor said, On the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, which commemorates the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, I extend my warm greetings to the people of Jammu Kashmir. I hope the National Unity Day celebration will further strengthen the spirit of oneness and peace in the Union Territory. He said Sardar Patel remains a timeless symbol of selfless service, patriotism, and unyielding integrity. As the Architect of National Unity, his vision forged a strong and united India. This Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, let us honor his legacy by pledging to strengthen peace, harmony, and national solidarity, he said. On this sacred occasion, I appeal to all sections of society, especially our youth to uphold the spirit of unity and work together to build a stronger, self-reliant Jammu Kashmir, the LG added.
NCs cabinet reshuffle opens fresh fault line; 18 MLAs meet
Srinagar, Oct 30: The National Conference (NC) is facing growing internal dissent following the recent cabinet reshuffle, with 18 legislators reportedly holding a closed-door meeting in Srinagar on Friday to chalk out a strategy against the changes made by the party leadership. The meeting, attended by 17 NC MLAs and an Independent legislator, was held at the residence of an NC MLA in the airport area of Srinagar, with sources indicating that the deliberations centred on what the legislators described as an unjust cabinet expansion. One of the participants, wishing anonymity, told Rising Kashmir that the legislators reached a consensus that the four ministers who had been part of the government since its formation in October 2024 should now make way for fresh faces, having completed two years in office. They have completed two years and should now be replaced by new faces, he said, adding that the legislators were discussing ways to press their demand before the party leadership. The latest meeting is being seen as a significant development in the growing unease within the ruling party, particularly after Omar Abdullah expanded his cabinet on October 27 by inducting four new ministers and dropping Satish Sharma.The reshuffle triggered considerable resentment in sections of the NC, with several legislators and their supporters expressing disappointment over the choices made by the leadership. Protests were also witnessed in different areas, reflecting the discontent among sections of the party cadre. The dissent had become visible even before the latest meeting, with 11 MLAs supporting the ruling alliance, most of them belonging to the NC, staying away from the oath-taking ceremony of the four newly inducted ministers. Sources privy to the meeting said the number of legislators unhappy with the cabinet expansion could be higher, as some MLAs who had skipped the swearing-in ceremony could not attend Friday's meeting due to prior engagements. The developments have also coincided with a politically sensitive period for the NC, with further closed-door consultations being held in Srinagar amid growing speculation over the party's internal equations ahead of NC MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi's November 3 deadline to resign from Parliament and the National Conference. Ruhullah, who has been vocal about his political commitments, has maintained that he stands firm on his position and commitment, adding another dimension to the challenges confronting the party leadership. Meanwhile, newly inducted minister Altaf Ahmad Wani , popularly known as Altaf Kaloo, sought to downplay the growing resentment within the NC camp. Speaking to reporters during his recent grand welcome in Anantnag, Kaloo said the new ministers would try to bring a different approach to governance. We will do something different, he said. Asked about the possibility of persuading Ruhullah, Kaloo said the party would make efforts to reach out to him.We will persuade him. Abhi gaya toh nahi woh, he said, indicating that the MP had not left the party. On the disappointment among sections of the NC following the cabinet expansion, Kaloo described it as a routine development within a political family, seeking to play down the differences. However, the growing number of legislators holding consultations, coupled with the demand for replacing ministers who have completed two years, suggests that the cabinet reshuffle has opened a fresh fault line within the ruling party. With the discontent extending beyond individual legislators to their supporters, the coming days are likely to test the NC leadership's ability to manage internal differences while keeping its herd together.
Political temperature in Jammu set to rise ahead of Darbar Move
BJP threatens agitation over alleged regional imbalance in Cabinet Arvind Sharma JAMMU TAWI, Oct 30: Political activity in the winter capital is expected to intensify in the coming days as all nine ministers of the National Conference (NC)-led government are scheduled to reach Jammu on November 1, ahead of the Darbar Move, which will commence [] The post Political temperature in Jammu set to rise ahead of Darbar Move appeared first on Northlines .
LG directs sustained action against terror modules
Srinagar, Oct 30: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday directed officials to takesustained and aggressive action against terror modules. He called for tightening counter-infiltration grids and fostering seamless synergy between the District Administration, Jammu Kashmir Police, Army and Central Armed Police Forces in executing counter-terror operations. The LG was chairing a high-level meeting with Deputy Commissioners, SSPs and senior officials to review the security scenario in the Kashmir Division. The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo; Chief Secretary Designate Dr Sajjan Singh Yadav; DGP Nalin Prabhat; Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Chandraker Bharti; Special DG Coordination PHQ, S.J.M. Gillani; ADG CID, M.K. Sinha; Commissioner Secretary, GAD, M. Raju; Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, Govind Jaiswal; IGP Kashmir Sujit Singh; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg; Range DIGs, DCs, SSPs and other senior officials. The meeting focused on operational preparedness, security strategies and future action plans to ensure a peaceful environment in the Kashmir Division. The Lieutenant Governor directed the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and SSPs to closely monitor anti-national elements within the administration and prioritise efforts to combat radicalisation. He asked for monthly reviews regarding the attachment of properties belonging to narco-terrorists and the terror-supporting ecosystem, saying action against narco-terrorists must continue unabated, besides relentless crackdowns on drug smugglers and peddlers, to realise the vision of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir. Emphasising the swift resolution of public grievances, the Lieutenant Governor said that fostering a strong connection between citizens, police and the administration is of paramount importance. Under no circumstances should communal harmony and the law and order situation be allowed to deteriorate. We must institutionalise best practices and implement District Convergence Plans to ensure sustainable peace and development, Sinha said. The Lieutenant Governorcalled for setting up district-level social media cells to swiftly counter misinformation. In view of the winter season, he directed the administration to ensure adequate stock and availability of essential commodities and robust snow-clearance mechanisms. The meeting also reviewed the progress of key infrastructure projects across the Kashmir Division.
Winter in Kashmir is often reduced to snow-covered landscapes, tourist photographs and seasonal excitement. Yet the Valleys snowfields and mountain slopes offer far more than visual beauty. They can support a thriving culture of winter sports, create employment for young people and strengthen Kashmirs position as a serious destination for adventure tourism. What is missing is not potential, but sustained planning and professional management. Gulmarg has already demonstrated what Kashmir can offer. Its slopes attract skiers, snowboarders and visitors from across the country and beyond. But winter sports cannot remain confined to one celebrated destination. Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Tangmarg, Doodhpathri and several other areas possess conditions that could support skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snow trekking and related activities. Developing these locations responsibly would distribute tourism benefits, create local opportunities and reduce pressure on a few overcrowded sites. The first requirement is infrastructure. Winter sports need properly maintained access roads, reliable transport, equipment rental centres, trained instructors, medical facilities, rescue teams and clear safety protocols. Visitors should not be left to depend on informal arrangements or untrained operators in hazardous terrain. A minor accident on a mountain can quickly become a serious emergency when communication, rescue and medical response are inadequate. Safety must be treated as the foundation of the sector. Weather advisories, avalanche monitoring, marked trails and regulated operating zones are essential. Every adventure activity must be governed by standards that protect both tourists and local residents. The administration cannot wait for accidents to expose gaps in preparation. Preventive systems, regular inspections and accountability should be in place before the season begins. Kashmirs youth should be placed at the centre of this vision. Winter sports academies can train local skiers, instructors, guides, equipment technicians and rescue personnel. Such training would create livelihoods that remain connected to the regions geography and culture. Schools and colleges should also be encouraged to introduce winter sports programmes, allowing talented young athletes to compete at national and international levels. The economic possibilities are considerable. A well-developed winter sports calendar can support hotels, transporters, restaurants, equipment manufacturers, photographers and small businesses. But commercial expansion must not come at the cost of fragile mountain ecosystems. Construction, traffic and waste management need strict regulation. Sustainable tourism must be the guiding principle, not an afterthought. Winter sports also offer Kashmir a positive narrative built around talent, discipline and opportunity. The Valley should not merely host visitors who come to admire snow. It should produce athletes, coaches and sporting events of its own. The administration, tourism bodies, sports organisations and local communities must work together on a long-term strategy. Kashmir has the snow, slopes and youthful energy. It now needs vision, investment and responsible governance to ensure that winter sports become a lasting public asset rather than a brief seasonal spectacle.
Stroke Is a Warning Kashmir Cannot Ignore
Stroke is no longer a distant medical concern affecting only the elderly or people with a known history of illness. Its growing presence in Kashmir is a warning that changing lifestyles, weak preventive habits and gaps in emergency preparedness are combining to create a serious public health challenge. Doctors have identified smoking, sedentary living, high cholesterol, diabetes, lack of exercise, alcohol consumption and drug addiction as major risk factors. These are not unavoidable conditions. They are, to a large extent, linked to choices, awareness and the availability of timely health guidance. A healthier diet, regular physical activity, weight control and routine monitoring of blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol can substantially reduce the risk. Yet preventive healthcare remains weak in both public practice and official messaging. The warning becomes more urgent during winter. Extreme cold can place additional strain on people with hypertension and other underlying conditions, particularly during the early morning and evening hours. This does not mean that winter should be treated with fear, but it does demand greater caution from high-risk individuals and their families. Avoiding unnecessary exposure to severe cold, taking prescribed medicines regularly, and remaining alert to sudden symptoms are simple but important precautions. At the same time, Kashmir has made meaningful progress in improving stroke care. The expansion of thrombolysis facilities to hospitals in north and south Kashmir has reduced dependence on SKIMS and SMHS for the first response. The provision of clot-busting drugs free of cost at district hospitals, along with consultation support from neurologists, has brought critical treatment closer to rural populations. More than 150 patients have reportedly benefited under the Save Brain Initiative. This is an important achievement, but it cannot become a reason for complacency. In an acute ischaemic stroke, every minute matters. Intravenous thrombolysis is generally effective only within 4.5 hours of the onset of symptoms for eligible patients. Delayed recognition, transport difficulties and the tendency to wait for symptoms to improve can turn a treatable emergency into permanent disability or death. Public awareness must therefore become a central part of the stroke programme. People should recognise sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, speech difficulty, confusion, loss of balance and severe dizziness as emergency signs. Families must not waste time on home remedies or move the patient from one facility to another without guidance. The correct response is immediate medical attention. The planned extension of thrombolysis services to Ganderbal and Kangan is welcome. But long-term success will depend on more than opening facilities. District and sub-district hospitals need functional CT scans, trained personnel, reliable referral systems and round-the-clock coordination. Every expansion must be backed by infrastructure, staffing and regular monitoring. Stroke prevention cannot be left to hospitals alone. Schools, workplaces, families and local institutions must promote healthier living. Kashmir needs a sustained public health campaign that treats prevention and rapid response as equally important. Saving brains requires not only better treatment after a stroke, but a determined effort to prevent the crisis before it begins.
Poetry possesses a rare and wondrous magic: it gives the invisible a voice, the ordinary an extraordinary beauty, and the unspeakable a language of its own. It needs neither a stage nor a spotlightonly a handful of words and a heart willing to feel. In a world of noise, a whisper can be profound; In a handful of words, whole worlds are found. We live in an age overflowing with information yet starving for meaning. Messages flash, images fade, and opinions multiply, but amid this restless commotion, a few lines of poetry can still make the world stand still. Its power lies not in the number of words it uses, but in the depth of feeling it awakens. Prose may explain heartbreak; poetry makes us feel its weight. A poem can transform a fleeting moment into an eternal memory. This magic shines through the works of literary masters. In William Wordsworths I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud, a field of daffodils becomes a lasting source of joy and spiritual renewal. In Robert Frosts The Road Not Taken, a choice between two paths becomes a reflection on life's decisions and uncertainties. Their poetry reminds us that the extraordinary often lies concealed within the ordinary. Poetry does not merely describe life; it reveals the life hidden within it. A fading leaf becomes a meditation on mortality; an empty chair, a monument to absence; a distant light, a promise of hope. The poet sees what hurried eyes overlook and discovers eternity in the smallest moments. The leaf falls, yet speaks of time; The silence aches, yet sings; And in the smallest drop of rain, The universe spreads its wings. Yet poetry is more than beautyit is courage clothed in language. When injustice becomes routine, poetry awakens conscience. In Faiz Ahmed Faizs Hum Dekhenge, the promise of justice becomes a powerful anthem of resistance. In Allama Iqbals Lab Pe Aati Hai Dua, poetry gives voice to a childs aspirations for goodness and service. Poetry also builds bridges across centuries, cultures, and continents. In Mirza Ghalibs ghazals, love, longing, loss, and the mysteries of existence find extraordinary expression. The words remind us that though our circumstances differ, the human heart often speaks a common language. Different tongues, yet the same cry; Different lands, the same sky. Though time may part us, verse reveals The common heart in all it feels. In our hurried world, where everything demands attention and little invites reflection, poetry asks us to pause. It resists the tyranny of haste and reminds us that not everything valuable can be measured, counted, or explained. We need its imagination to challenge indifference, its beauty to deepen perception, and its wisdom to help us confront reality with greater compassion. A poem cannot solve every crisis or heal every wound. Its gift is subtler: it sharpens our vision, enlarges our sympathy, and gives shape to feelings we struggle to name. Sometimes, understanding what we feel is the first step towards discovering what we must do. Ultimately, poetry is not an escape from life; it is an invitation to enter life more completely. From Wordsworths daffodils to Faizs vision of justice, from Ghalibs longing to Tagores spiritual awakening, poetry transforms personal emotions into universal truths. Perhaps its greatest miracle is not that beautiful words can touch the soul, but that they can transform the eyes through which the soul sees the world. Words may fade, and pages close; Yet in the heart, their light still glows. For poetrys truest art is this: To make us feel what we might miss. When the poem ends, its magic begins. It lives on in the compassion it awakens, the truths it reveals, and the beauty it teaches us to recognise. For poetry does not merely make words sing; it makes the human spirit listen. (The author is a freelance columnist and writes on various issues. He can be reached at: fidahumairawrite@gmail.com )
The Power of a Secure Childhood
Every child is born with possibilities waiting to flourish. A curious question, a new idea, a small achievement or a moment of courage may be the beginning of something remarkable. What helps these possibilities grow is the care, encouragement and confidence children receive during their early years. A secure childhood gives young minds the confidence to explore, the courage to learn and the belief that their dreams are worth pursuing. Childhood is a remarkable stage of human development. During the early years, the brain develops at an extraordinary pace, building the foundations for language, learning and emotional wellbeing. Harvard University's Centre on the Developing Child explains this through the concept of serve and return. When a child makes a sound, smiles or gestures, a caring adult responds with words, expressions or attention. These simple exchanges support healthy brain development. Harvard reports that more than one million neural connections form every second during the first few years of life. A secure childhood develops through patience, encouragement and caring support. Everyday experiences of listening, guidance and appreciation help children recognise the value of their thoughts and efforts. As they experience new situations and learn from mistakes, they gradually develop confidence, curiosity and an understanding of their abilities. Positive encouragement also inspires them to ask questions, explore new interests and discover opportunities for growth. The foundations of healthy childhood development extend beyond learning. The World Health Organization, UNICEF and the World Bank identify five essential conditions: good health, adequate nutrition, safety and security, responsive caregiving and opportunities for early learning. Their Nurturing Care Framework explains how these elements work together. A child who is healthy, well-nourished, protected and encouraged has a stronger opportunity to learn and flourish. As children grow, they naturally experience new situations and challenges. These experiences can become opportunities to develop patience, confidence and problem-solving skills when the right support is available. Positive experiences, supportive guidance and a sense of stability contribute to children's emotional wellbeing and help them develop the confidence to face new situations. With encouragement and timely support, children can gradually strengthen their ability to adapt, learn and move forward. Internationally, universities and research institutions are exploring how early experiences influence human development. University College London studies children's social and emotional development. Professor Andrea Danese at King's College London researches childhood experiences and their effects on health. The University of Oxford's Rees Centre studies children's experiences in education and social care. Leiden University researches parenting and child development. Germany's Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry explores biological processes associated with human development, while Yale University's Child Study Center brings research, education and clinical care together. India, too, is making important progress in recognising the value of early childhood. The National Education Policy 2020 identifies Early Childhood Care and Education as the foundation of lifelong learning. Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi connects nutrition, early stimulation and play-based learning through Anganwadi centres. In Maharashtra, the UNICEF-supported Aarambh programme uses home visits and play-based activities to help families encourage children's development. In Uttar Pradesh, Dular, developed with UNICEF and Dost Education Foundation, has used daily one-minute audio messages to guide caregivers on responsive parenting and early learning. Further initiatives are strengthening this effort. Navchetana provides a framework for early stimulation from birth to three years, while Aadharshila offers a curriculum for children aged three to six. Both promote responsive caregiving and age-appropriate learning. Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0 aim to strengthen early-childhood services. NIMHANS in Bengaluru contributes through SAMVAD, a national initiative supporting child protection, mental health and psychosocial care, particularly for children requiring additional care and support. Indian universities and research institutions are also contributing to this field. The Tata Institute of Social Sciences studies children's emotional development and family wellbeing. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University Delhi has a Centre for Early Childhood Education and Development. Utkal University's Psychology Department has undertaken a UNICEF-supported Centre of Excellence project on Early Childhood Development and also operates the Radhanath Rath Centre for Early Childhood Education. The University of Jammu researches parenting and child wellbeing, while St. John's Research Institute in Bengaluru examines early-life experiences, nutrition and child development. Schools have an equally important opportunity to shape a child's future. A good teacher does more than explain lessons; a good teacher helps children recognise their abilities. Classrooms that welcome questions, encourage curiosity and appreciate effort can make learning an exciting experience. Creative activities, reading, sports, art and play allow children to discover interests, express ideas and develop confidence. Education becomes more meaningful when it prepares young people not only to gain knowledge but also to think thoughtfully, act responsibly and contribute positively to society. Harvard's National Scientific Council on the Developing Child identifies a stable connection with at least one supportive adult as an important protective factor as children navigate lifes varied experiences. This person may be a parent, grandparent, teacher or mentor. Such support can help children maintain confidence and find strength during challenging moments. Early experiences help shape a person's growth, while every new opportunity brings fresh possibilities for the future. With encouragement, education and opportunities, children can discover their strengths, develop their abilities and realise how much is possible for their future. A secure childhood is created through simple but caring actions: listening with attention, answering questions patiently, celebrating effort, encouraging creativity and making children feel valued. These actions can turn everyday moments into opportunities for growth. Every child deserves the confidence to dream, the encouragement to learn and the support to pursue a fulfilling future. The lasting progress of a society is reflected in the opportunities it creates for future generations and the brighter possibilities it nurtures. When children grow with care, confidence and opportunity, they become better prepared to shape a capable, compassionate and hopeful world. Every child deserves the support, knowledge and encouragement to embrace life's opportunities, grow through new experiences and move towards a promising future. The greatest gift of a secure childhood is not a perfect life, but the confidence and ability to make life better. (The Author is a columnist and can be reached at: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )
When Winter Comes, Spring Still Waits: Kashmir's Enduring Dialogue with Hope!
If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind? This immortal question, posed by the English Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley in his celebrated poem Ode to the West Wind, is much more than an observation about the changing seasons. It is an expression of faith in renewal, an affirmation of life's capacity to overcome adversity, and a reminder that no phase of existence, however difficult, is necessarily permanent. In the context of Kashmir, this thought acquires a particularly profound significance. The Valley experiences the changing seasons with an intensity that is difficult to describe in words. Here, nature does not merely change its appearance; it transforms the entire atmosphere of life. Autumn arrives with an extraordinary display of colours, winter follows with its severity, and spring eventually restores the landscape to its familiar splendour. Yet, between the beauty of autumn and the promise of spring lies a long winter that tests both nature and human endurance. Kashmir's autumn, known as Harud, has a melancholy beauty of its own. It is perhaps the season in which the Valley reveals its most contemplative personality. The magnificent chinar trees, which dominate its gardens and avenues, gradually turn golden, crimson and copper before shedding their leaves. What was once a canopy of green becomes a magnificent carpet of fallen foliage. The saffron fields of Pampore offer their brief but unforgettable spectacle, while the orchards, having yielded their harvest, begin preparing for the approaching cold. The mountains acquire a different hue, the days grow shorter, and the air carries an unmistakable suggestion of winter. There is an extraordinary beauty in this transition, but it is a beauty accompanied by an awareness of departure. Perhaps autumn is nature's most eloquent lesson in the art of letting go. The chinar does not resist the falling of its leaves, nor does it regard its temporary barrenness as a defeat. It stands quietly, surrendering what it can no longer retain, while preserving the roots and strength necessary for another season. There is a certain dignity in this natural process. It reminds us that change is not always a loss and that letting go does not necessarily mean giving up. Sometimes, it is only through surrendering the familiar that life makes room for something new. But in Kashmir, the surrender of autumn is followed by a winter that is neither brief nor gentle. The arrival of Chillai Kalan, the harshest forty-day period of winter, transforms the Valley into an entirely different world. Snow descends upon the mountains, rooftops and fields, streams lose their usual movement, and the landscape retreats beneath a blanket of white. The mornings become difficult, the nights seem interminable, and the warmth of sunlight becomes a cherished luxury. The Valley, which only a few weeks earlier had been alive with the colours of autumn, appears to withdraw into a prolonged silence. Winter in Kashmir, however, is not merely a spectacle of snow and frozen landscapes. It is an experience that has shaped the habits, traditions and temperament of its people over generations. The pheran and kangri become essential companions, the warmth of the hamam offers relief from the cold, and the traditional samovar provides an opportunity to share a cup of noon chai or kehwa. Families gather around the hearth, conversations acquire a different intimacy, and memories find their way into the long evenings. Outside, the cold may be relentless, but inside homes, life continues through familiar rituals and shared companionship. In its own way, winter brings people closer to the simple comforts that often remain unnoticed during more pleasant seasons. Yet, it would be unfair to romanticise the hardships that winter brings. For many, particularly those living in remote and mountainous areas, it is a demanding period marked by difficult journeys, disrupted livelihoods and the challenge of maintaining warmth. Heavy snowfall can isolate villages, interrupt communication and make access to essential services difficult. The elderly, the economically vulnerable and those without adequate heating facilities bear a disproportionate share of these hardships. The beauty of a snow-covered landscape, so captivating to a visitor, can be an entirely different reality for someone struggling to negotiate its severity. Kashmir's winter therefore has two faces: one that attracts admiration and another that demands endurance. It is perhaps in this contrast that Shelley's question begins to acquire its deeper meaning. Winter is not simply a season of low temperatures; it becomes a metaphor for those periods in life when circumstances turn unfavourable, familiar certainties disappear and the future becomes difficult to perceive. Every human being encounters such winters. There are moments when relationships become distant, dreams remain unfulfilled, and the paths once travelled with confidence become uncertain. There are times when loss leaves an emptiness that no immediate consolation can fill. During such periods, the human mind often mistakes temporary darkness for permanent despair. Nature, however, offers a different perspective. Beneath the snow-covered earth, roots continue to hold their ground. Seeds remain protected in the soil, waiting for the conditions that will allow them to germinate. Trees that appear lifeless are merely passing through a period of dormancy. Their silence does not signify the end of their existence; it is part of a larger process of renewal. What the eye perceives as stillness may, in reality, be a period of preparation. Nature does not abandon life during winter. It preserves it, allowing it to gather strength for another beginning. This is perhaps one of the most profound lessons that Kashmir's seasons offer. We often judge life by what is immediately visible. When circumstances do not favour us, we assume that progress has stopped. When familiar relationships or surroundings disappear, we begin to believe that the warmth they once provided can never return. But the unseen dimensions of existence are often as significant as those that are visible. Faith, patience, memory and inner strength continue to sustain us even when circumstances offer little encouragement. Not every period of silence is emptiness, and not every apparent ending is final. For Kashmir, this thought carries an additional emotional significance. Its history has witnessed difficult chapters, and its people have experienced uncertainty, separation, loss and displacement. For many, the relationship with the Valley extends far beyond geographical attachment. It is preserved in childhood memories, ancestral homes, the fragrance of familiar flowers, the sound of the Jhelum, the changing colours of the chinars and the traditions that have travelled across generations. Those who have been separated from their ancestral surroundings often carry an entire landscape within themselves. A house may remain distant, a village may survive only in memory, and familiar pathways may no longer be accessible, yet the emotional connection with one's roots continues to endure. There is a certain resemblance between this human experience and the winter landscape. What appears to have disappeared may continue to exist in another form. A culture may lose some of its familiar spaces without losing its essential identity. A language may become less frequently spoken without surrendering its capacity to connect generations. Memories may become distant, but they do not necessarily become meaningless. The responsibility of preserving them rests with those who understand that heritage is not merely an inheritance from the past; it is also a responsibility towards the future. This does not mean that the suffering of individuals and communities can be compared simplistically with the changing seasons. Nature follows a predictable rhythm, whereas human wounds require understanding, compassion, justice and sustained effort. The arrival of spring cannot, by itself, undo the consequences of displacement or erase the memories of loss. Nevertheless, the seasonal cycle offers a valuable perspective: adversity need not extinguish the possibility of renewal. The human spirit can retain its capacity to hope, provided that individuals and societies continue to nurture the values that make healing and reconciliation possible. And then, slowly, winter begins to loosen its hold. The severity of Chillai Kalan gives way to Chillai Khurd and Chillai Bachha. The snow gradually recedes from the lower reaches, sunlight acquires a gentler warmth, and the first signs of transformation appear. The change is not sudden. Winter occasionally reminds the Valley of its remaining strength through unexpected snowfall and renewed cold. Yet the movement towards spring has already begun. Nature seems to awaken quietly, without announcement or celebration, as though it has been waiting patiently for the appropriate moment. Soonth, the Kashmiri spring, arrives with a delicacy that makes its beauty all the more remarkable. The almond blossoms of Badamwari are among its earliest messengers. Their pink and white flowers appear against the lingering chill, creating a spectacle that seems almost miraculous after the long months of winter. Gradually, gardens regain their colours, orchards prepare for another cycle of growth, and the meadows acquire their green mantle. Streams descend from the mountains, carrying the waters released by melting snow, while the Valley begins to recover its familiar rhythm. The landscape that had appeared subdued and lifeless gradually reveals the vitality that had remained hidden beneath the winter's silence. There is something particularly significant about the almond blossoms. They do not wait for every trace of winter to disappear before announcing the arrival of spring. They bloom while the air may still carry a chill, demonstrating that renewal does not always require the complete disappearance of difficulty. Sometimes, the first signs of change emerge while the old circumstances still linger. A single blossom becomes an announcement of a larger transformation. It is a reminder that hope need not wait for perfect conditions to find expression. Perhaps this is where the seasonal experience of Kashmir offers its most enduring message to humanity. Life cannot be measured only by its periods of abundance, comfort and fulfilment. Its true character is also revealed in the manner in which it negotiates uncertainty, loss and adversity. Autumn teaches acceptance, winter cultivates endurance, and spring restores the confidence to begin again. Each season contributes something to the larger meaning of existence. Without autumn, we might not understand the necessity of letting go; without winter, we might not appreciate the value of warmth; and without the long wait, the first blossoms of spring might not appear quite so extraordinary. The cycle also invites us to reflect upon the responsibility of preserving what gives a society its continuity. Kashmir's poetry, music, spiritual traditions, language, hospitality and cultural inheritance are among the roots that have sustained its identity through changing circumstances. These cannot be preserved through nostalgia alone. They must be practised, shared and transmitted to younger generations. Just as a tree requires nourishment to survive the changing seasons, a culture requires conscious care if it is to remain meaningful in a rapidly changing world. Hope, therefore, is not simply an emotion; it is also a commitment to protect what is valuable and to create conditions in which future generations can flourish. Perhaps the deepest beauty of Kashmir lies in this recurring dialogue between nature and human life. Its autumns teach us that nothing remains unchanged, its winters remind us that endurance is essential, and its springs assure us that renewal remains possible. The chinars will shed their leaves again, the mountains will once more disappear beneath snow, and the Valley will pass through another prolonged season of cold. Yet the almond trees will blossom, the streams will flow, and the earth will awaken once again. Shelley's question, therefore, is not merely about the certainty of a seasonal transition. It is an invitation to look beyond the immediate difficulties of existence and recognise the possibilities that may remain hidden from our sight. Winter may delay the flowering of life, but it cannot permanently erase its promise. Snow may cover the earth, but it cannot silence the roots beneath it. Darkness may prolong the night, but it cannot prevent the arrival of dawn. Kashmir's greatest strength is not that it has never known winter, but that it continues to carry within itself the longing for spring. And perhaps that is the wisdom its seasons leave behind: we may not always have the power to determine the winters that come into our lives, but we can preserve the faith, courage and compassion required to welcome the spring when it arrives. For spring is not merely what follows winter; it is also the hope that keeps life moving through it. (The Author is a RK columnist and can be reached at: sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com )
Rising power bills spark resentment across Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 29: Consumers across several parts of Kashmir have expressed resentment over the recent electricity tariff hike, alleging that rising bills and irregular power supply have added to the financial burden on ordinary households. After an elected government returned to power in Jammu and Kashmir, many residents had hoped for relief from rising living costs. However, consumers say the reported six percent increase in electricity tariffs, along with alleged hikes exceeding nine percent in some non-metered areas, has left them disappointed. Consumers have questioned the gap between the government's promises of relief, including the proposed benefit of 200 units of free electricity for eligible households, and the bills they claim to be receiving. Advocate G. N. Bukhari, who practices at the Additional District & Sessions Court, Handwara, raised concerns over electricity bills issued to consumers in North Kashmir. He alleged that some households had received bills showing increases beyond the approved six percent hike, with certain consumers claiming that their bills had nearly doubled. Consumers from North Kashmir have every right to know why their electricity bills are increasing beyond the announced tariff revision. The authorities must explain the basis of these charges and ensure that no household is overbilled, Bukhari said. Local residents said the situation was particularly difficult for families dependent on daily wages, who are already struggling to manage household expenses amid rising prices. Shamim Ahmad, a resident of Langate and a daily-wage laborer of the Jal Shakti Department, said his electricity bill had increased from Rs 1,300 in the previous month to Rs 1,420 for September. I earn my livelihood through daily labor. Some days I find work, while on other days I return home empty-handed. My electricity bill has increased despite our limited income. It becomes difficult to manage household expenses when every essential service keeps getting costlier, he said. Ahmad questioned the increase in his bill and urged the authorities to verify the charges. People like us cannot afford unexpected increases in monthly bills. If the approved hike is six percent, the authorities should explain why consumers are being charged more, he added. Residents have demanded transparency in tariff calculations and sought an explanation from the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) regarding the complaints. They urged the government and the Power Development Department to investigate allegations of inflated billing, verify meter readings, review tariff calculations, and ensure that consumers are charged strictly according to approved rates. However, none of the officials from KPDCL were available to comment on this issue.
Winter preparedness : Govt eyes 200 MW additional power from UP
Srinagar, Oct 30:- Jammu and Kashmir is considering procuring an additional 200 MW of electricity from Uttar Pradesh through power exchange arrangements to meet the rising demand during winter, Minister for Power Development Department Ali Mohammad Sagar said on Friday. Sagar, convened a review meeting of the Power Development Department (PDD) at the Civil Secretariat here. The Minister took stock of overall functioning of the department besides assessing the preparedness for the forthcoming winter season. He reviewed the key initiatives and infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening the power sector and improving electricity services across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary PDD, Ashwani Kumar, Managing Directors of all power corporations, besides Chief Electrical Inspector and other senior officers and concerned field functionaries of the department. During the meeting, the officers apprised the Minister of the working of the department, progress on ongoing developmental works, power generation and procurement arrangements, transmission and distribution infrastructure, financial performance, operational challenges and future requirements. Emphasising that reliable, affordable and quality electricity is an essential public service, the Minister said that the ultimate objective of every departmental initiative must be to ensure improved power supply and better consumer satisfaction. He stressed that administrative efficiency, timely execution of projects and effective coordination at all levels must translate into visible improvements in public service delivery. Reviewing preparedness for the forthcoming winter season, Sagar stressed the need for comprehensive advance arrangements to ensure reliable power supply, particularly in snow-bound, far-flung, hilly and remote areas. He directed the officers to maintain adequate stocks of transformers, cables, conductors and other essential equipment at strategically identified locations to facilitate immediate restoration of electricity in case of breakdowns and emergencies. He emphasised that winter preparedness must be reflected in tangible arrangements on the ground. He called for regular inspection of vulnerable infrastructure, identification of potential bottlenecks and deployment of adequate technical manpower and machinery. He also directed the concerned officers to strengthen the field-level response mechanisms and ensure effective coordination among different wings of the department for speedy restoration of electricity during adverse weather conditions. The Minister underscored that uninterrupted power supply to essential services including hospitals, healthcare centres, drinking water installations, educational institutions and other critical public utilities, must receive priority, particularly during periods of heavy snowfall and inclement weather. The status of the electricity amnesty scheme was also reviewed, with the Minister emphasising that its intended benefits must reach all eligible consumers. Taking stock of the overall power availability and demand-supply position, the Minister discussed the requirement for additional power procurement including the proposed procurement of approximately 200 MW from Uttar Pradesh through power exchange arrangements to bridge the demand-supply gap. He stressed the importance of advance assessment of electricity requirements and timely procurement planning to ensure adequate power availability, particularly during peak winter demand. Reviewing the progress under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), Sagar called for expediting works aimed at strengthening the distribution network, replacing overloaded transformers and other equipment, improving feeder infrastructure and reducing technical and commercial losses. He directed the officers to closely monitor the execution of these works so that the intended benefits of the scheme are translated into improved electricity supply and enhanced consumer satisfaction. The Minister also reviewed the status of smart meter installation across Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed that technological interventions should promote transparency, accurate billing, accountability and improved consumer services. The existing power generation capacity, availability of electricity and possibilities of optimising available resources were also discussed. The Minister stressed the need to explore all feasible avenues for enhancing generation, improving operational efficiency and ensuring better utilisation of available power resources. Emphasising the need to improve the financial and operational health of the department, Sagar reviewed billing efficiency, revenue collection and measures for reducing Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses. He stressed that improved revenue realisation and financial discipline were important for sustainability of the power sector; however, these objectives must go hand in hand with better consumer services, transparency and accountability. He called for strengthening institutional mechanisms to ensure accurate metering, timely billing and efficient revenue collection while safeguarding the interests of genuine consumers. The Minister directed the officers to adopt a consumer-friendly approach and ensure that complaints relating to unscheduled power cuts, faulty transformers, damaged distribution lines, low voltage and delayed restoration of electricity are addressed promptly.
Gear up for emerging challenges: NC to workers
Srinagar, Oct 30: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir on Friday called upon party functionaries and workers to remain prepared to meet emerging challenges and strengthen their engagement with the people, saying sustained public outreach was essential to carrying forward the party's mission. Addressing party functionaries and workers, Mir said the National Conference had always represented the rights, identity and dignity of the people and would continue to raise their concerns on every appropriate platform. He said that the partys strength lay in peoples trust and the dedication of its cadre. He called for unity, discipline and determination among party functionaries. Mir reiterated the partys commitment to the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs special status and full statehood, saying it would continue to pursue the demands through democratic and constitutional means. Mir said the denial of constitutional rights would neither suppress the voice of the people nor deter the party from pursuing their demands through peaceful and democratic means. Referring to the hardships faced by people since 2015, he said prolonged uncertainty had affected daily life, the economy and livelihood opportunities, making public relief an urgent priority. He appreciated the welfare measures taken by the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, saying it was working to address public grievances, improve basic amenities and accelerate developmental activities. Mir said the induction of additional ministers into the Cabinet had created more avenues for addressing public grievances and improving service delivery. He acknowledged that the government was operating amid constraints, including limited powers, financial difficulties and administrative hurdles, but maintained that it was utilising available resources to serve the people. He reiterated that the National Conference would continue its democratic struggle for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs special status, statehood, identity and constitutional rights.
Run for Unity promotes harmony in Sonamarg
Ganderbal, Oct 30: A 2.5-km Run for Unity organised by Sonamarg Police brought together people from diverse walks of life, including officials, tourism stakeholders, business representatives, students and senior citizens, to promote unity, harmony and community participation in the popular tourist destination. Highlighting the spirit of unity, diversity and community participation, CEO Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) Bilal Mukhtar appreciated the Sonamarg Police for organising the programme. Speaking to reporters, Bilal Mukhtar said the event brought together participants from the Police Department, Tourism Department, SDA, business community and educational institutions, including young children. He said the enthusiasm displayed by participants reflected the true spirit of national unity and demonstrated how diversity strengthens the nation. He further said that such programmes can play an important role in promoting tourism by showcasing Sonamarg not only as a beautiful tourist destination but also as a place of harmony, togetherness and community participation. Meanwhile, local stakeholder Furqan Ahmad also appreciated the initiative, saying that Police Station Sonamarg had brought together around 10 to 12 different stakeholder groups for the event. Participants covered a distance of nearly 2.5 kilometres in a peaceful and enthusiastic atmosphere. Furqan said it was encouraging to see children as well as senior citizens taking part in the run. He added that several participants were felicitated with prizes and appreciation certificates. He also suggested that similar programmes should be organised in Sonamarg at least once a month, saying such activities would create a lively atmosphere, promote community engagement and provide tourists with memorable experiences amid the valley's scenic mountains and natural beauty.
J&K PG residents stipend row: AIMSA sets Nov 12 deadline
Srinagar, Oct 30: The All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) on Friday set November 12 as the deadline for J&K Government to revise the monthly stipends of postgraduate (PG) residents and senior residents, warning of peaceful action if their demand remains unresolved. In a communication addressed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Dr Mohammad Momin Khan, State President, AIMSA J&K, urged the government to take a decision on the long-pending demand for revision of stipends of MD, MS, DNB and MDS residents working in GMCs and other government healthcare institutions across the UT. The association expressed solidarity with Resident Doctors Associations (RDAs) of Jammu, Baramulla and Rajouri, stating that resident doctors have been raising concerns over disparities in stipends compared to their counterparts in other states. AIMSA said postgraduate residents and senior residents form an integral part of the healthcare delivery system and shoulder significant clinical responsibilities, including round-the-clock patient care, often working long hours under demanding conditions. It said their financial compensation should adequately reflect their responsibilities and the prevailing cost of living. Despite repeated representations and requests, the demand for a fair stipend revision remains unresolved, the association said, urging the CM to intervene and ensure a concrete decision. AIMSA has sought an immediate revision of monthly stipends for all PG residents and senior residents, besides a fair and uniform stipend structure across all government medical colleges and healthcare institutions in J&K. It has also called for addressing the existing disparity between J&K and other states and issuing a formal Government Order on the revision before November 12. The association said it hoped the government would address the concerns through a positive and timely decision, but warned that failure to act within the stipulated deadline would compel it to initiate further democratic and peaceful steps in support of resident doctors.
North Kashmir gets first govt MRI facility at GMC Handwara
Srinagar, Oct 30: Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara has become the first government healthcare facility in north Kashmir to install an MRI machine, with the facility expected to be inaugurated soon. Principal GMC Handwara, Prof. (Dr.) Khurshid Ahmad Wani, said the MRI machine has been installed, making it the first medical college in north Kashmir to have the advanced diagnostic facility. The service is expected to benefit patients across the northern districts and reduce their dependence on hospitals in Srinagar. The initiative is expected to provide a major boost to healthcare services and bring relief to economically weaker sections, who often struggle to afford expensive diagnostic investigations at private hospitals and clinics. The absence of an MRI facility in the region had been causing considerable inconvenience to patients, many of whom had to travel to Srinagar for the investigation, where they often faced long waiting periods for appointments. GMC Handwara has already installed a CT scan facility and a dialysis unit under the Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme (PMNDP). The institution has also established a dedicated Amrit Pharmacy store and introduced FibroScan services. Prof. Wani said the medical college has also emerged as the institution with the highest number of Diplomate of National Board (DNB) seats among the new and existing medical colleges in Jammu and Kashmir. Notably, GMC Handwara is the only medical college after GMC Srinagar to offer DNB courses in Forensic Medicine and Emergency Medicine. This year, we will have 33 students under the All India Quota and 12 students under the In-Service Quota who will pursue their DNB here, he said. The principal further said that the institution has added 1,000 in-house biochemistry investigations, with the facility expected to become operational within the next two weeks. The service will provide relief to patients by strengthening diagnostic services within the hospital. He also said that the construction of the 250-bedded facility is progressing at a good pace and is expected to be completed by March next year. With its completion, the total bed capacity of GMC Handwara will increase to 500. According to data maintained by the medical college, it has also recorded the highest number of stroke thrombolysis procedures among medical colleges in J&K, with 41 patients receiving the time-sensitive treatment in its emergency department in the recent past. Earlier this year, the medical college also introduced endoscopy and colonoscopy services, minimally invasive procedures used to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal disorders, further expanding its specialised healthcare facilities.
Govt moves to accelerate compressed biogas projects
Srinagar, Oct 30: The Jammu and Kashmir government has constituted a Union Territory-level Empowered Committee, District-Level Committees and a Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) Cell to ensure effective implementation of the Jammu and Kashmir Compressed Bio-Gas Energy Policy, 2026. As per an order, the committees and the CBG cell have been constituted to provide institutional oversight, streamline implementation and facilitate the development of compressed bio-gas projects across the Union Territory. According to the terms of reference, the UT-level Empowered Committee will provide overall policy oversight, strategic guidance and inter-departmental coordination for the implementation of the policy. The committee will periodically review the progress of CBG projects, including their identification, registration, development, implementation and commissioning. It will also facilitate the resolution of issues related to land availability, feedstock supply, statutory and environmental clearances, infrastructure, utilities, connectivity and financial support. A key responsibility of the committee will be to review biomass resource assessments and surveys to determine the availability, aggregation, sustainability and utilisation of suitable biomass for CBG production. The panel will also oversee the identification and mobilisation of biomass resources and facilitate mechanisms to ensure a reliable and sustainable supply of feedstock for proposed projects. The terms of reference further mandate the committee to examine infrastructure requirements for CBG projects, including road connectivity, electricity, water supply, gas evacuation and transportation facilities, and storage infrastructure. It will monitor the functioning of the State Nodal Agency and the Single Window mechanism to ensure faster processing of applications and approvals. The committee will also examine issues and bottlenecks flagged by the Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA), project developers and concerned departments, and facilitate their resolution. Besides, it will review financial assistance, incentives and other support available from the Central Government for CBG projects and monitor the submission and settlement of claims under the policy. The panel will work towards convergence of the J&K CBG Policy with relevant Central Government policies, schemes, programmes and regulatory requirements. To encourage investment in the sector, it will examine major project proposals and facilitate private-sector participation. The committee has also been entrusted with reviewing proposals for modifications, clarifications or amendments to the policy in light of implementation experience, emerging technologies, regulatory changes, biomass availability and stakeholder feedback. Such changes will remain subject to approval or ratification by the competent authority or the Cabinet, wherever required. The terms of reference further provide for periodic assessment of the policy's objectives and targets, particularly its impact on renewable energy generation, waste management, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, employment generation, rural economic development and investment mobilisation. The UT-level Empowered Committee will meet quarterly to review implementation progress and biomass survey findings, address inter-departmental issues, examine policy-related amendments, subject to Cabinet ratification, and monitor claims for Central financial assistance under the policy. The committee may also take up any other matter or function assigned by the Government for effective implementation of the policy.
Young minds, big ideas: Ganderbal students turn innovators
Ganderbal, Oct 30: Turning imagination into innovation, three young students from an Educational Institutions, Thune Kangan, in Ganderbal district have emerged as budding innovators by developing technology-based projects aimed at addressing some of the common challenges faced by people in their daily lives. From a smart fire alert system designed to provide early warnings against potential electrical hazards to an intelligent dam and water tank monitoring system capable of alerting people before water overflow occurs, and a do-it-yourself air purifier intended to improve indoor air quality, the students have demonstrated that age is no barrier to creativity, scientific thinking and innovation. The three projects, developed by the students with the guidance and support of their teachers, reflect their interest in science and technology and their ability to transform classroom learning into practical solutions. Their efforts have also highlighted the importance of encouraging young minds to experiment, explore new ideas and develop technologies that can prove beneficial to society. One of the most noteworthy projects is a Smart Fire Alert System, developed by student Aliya Zubair using an Arduino Nano microcontroller. The project has been designed to address the growing concern of electrical faults and fire incidents in residential houses, hotels and other establishments, where a minor electrical problem can sometimes develop into a major emergency. Explaining the concept behind her innovation, Aliya said that electrical short circuits and wiring-related faults are common causes of fire incidents, while people inside buildings may not immediately realise that an electrical problem has occurred. To address this concern, she developed a system that can detect a wire disconnection or breakage and immediately alert people through multiple warning indicators. As soon as the system detects the fault, a buzzer starts ringing, a red LED begins flashing and a warning message appears on an LCD screen, informing people about the possible electrical problem. The idea behind the project is to provide an early warning mechanism so that occupants can become alert and take necessary precautions before a potentially dangerous situation develops further. The student believes that such a system could be useful in houses, hotels and other buildings, particularly in places where electrical installations are extensively used and where timely alerts can make a difference. Another interesting innovation has been developed by student Kamran Ahmad, who has designed a Dam and Water Tank Alert System to monitor rising water levels and provide advance warnings before water reaches the overflow point. Water overflow from tanks and rising water levels in dams can sometimes lead to wastage, inconvenience and potential damage if timely action is not taken. Keeping this problem in mind, Kamran developed a system that monitors water levels and alerts users when the water reaches a particular stage. According to the student, the system is designed to provide an alert approximately ten minutes before overflow, giving people sufficient time to take preventive measures and manage the situation. The project could prove useful for households, water storage facilities and other places where monitoring water levels is important. It also demonstrates how simple electronic components and innovative thinking can be used to address practical problems that people encounter in their everyday lives. The third project, a DIY Air Purifier, has been prepared by student Hazik, who has attempted to develop an affordable solution for improving indoor air quality. The device features four fans and four filters, which work together to draw air through the filtration arrangement and help remove impurities from the surrounding environment. According to the student, the device is capable of purifying air by up to 80 per cent. He believes that the concept could be useful in homes, offices, hospitals and other indoor spaces where maintaining cleaner air is important. The project reflects the student's understanding of how ventilation and filtration mechanisms can be combined to develop a practical device using readily available components. It also highlights the potential of do-it-yourself innovations in encouraging students to explore affordable technological alternatives to everyday problems. What makes these projects particularly encouraging is that they are not merely theoretical classroom assignments but practical demonstrations of how students can identify problems around them and attempt to develop solutions through scientific knowledge and experimentation. The innovations have drawn appreciation from people present on the occasion, who praised the students for their dedication, confidence and enthusiasm towards science and technology. They also appreciated the efforts of the teaching staff and the institution's administration for providing an environment where students are encouraged to think beyond textbooks and participate in practical learning activities.
Directs sustained crackdown on terror modules Srinagar, Oct 30: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday chaired a high-level meeting with Deputy Commissioners, SSPs and senior officials to review the security scenario in Kashmir Division. The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo; Chief Secretary Designate, Dr. Sajjan Singh Yadav; DGP, Nalin Prabhat; Additional Chief []
CABINET RESHUFFLE FALLOUT: 18 NC MLAs revolt, demand removal of 4 ministers, advisor
Dissenting legislators demand parliamentary board for future inductions Srinagar, Oct 30: The growing discontent within the ruling National Conference (NC) over Tuesdays cabinet expansion-cum-reshuffle came to the fore on Friday as 18 legislators, including 17 NC MLAs and one Independent member supporting the government, held a marathon meeting here to deliberate on their future course []
Decline in violence welcome, but lasting peace requires justice, public trust: Mirwaiz
Seeks release of pol prisoners, restoration of civil liberties Srinagar, Oct 30: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq on Friday said the decline in violence in Jammu and Kashmir is welcome, but lasting peace requires justice, reconciliation and the restoration of public trust. Addressing the Friday congregation at the historic Jama Masjid Srinagar, the Mirwaiz []
CM Omar -led Cabinet approves two new Industrial Estates in J
Projects to strengthen attract investment, create employment opportunities Srinagar, Oct 30: The Council of Ministers, recently chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has approved the establishment of two new Industrial Estates in Jammu & Kashmir, involving a combined investment of 162.72 crore. The approved projects include a New Industrial Estate at Pehlipora, Lar, Ganderbal, at []
Dir Info reviews functioning of DICs across Kashmir division
Calls for responsive, tech-driven approach for making communication more effective, people-centric Srinagar, Oct 30: Director Information, Mamta Yadav on Friday chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the functioning of District Information Centres (DICs) across Kashmir Division, with a focus on strengthening district-level information dissemination, improving media coordination and ensuring effective coverage of government activities []
LG extends Rashtriya Ekta Diwas greetings
Srinagar, Oct 30: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday paid tributes to Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, on the eve of his birth anniversary. In a message, the Lieutenant Governor said, On the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, which commemorates the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, I extend my warm greetings to []
SC Collegium approves nine Advocates as J
Tahir Majid Shamsi, Tabasum Zafar among those recommended for appointment New Delhi, Oct 30: The Supreme Court Collegium, headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, has approved the proposal for the appointment of nine advocates as judges of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, according to a communication made available on []
Traffic curbs on Boulevard Road for Run for Unity today
Srinagar, Oct 30: Traffic movement on Boulevard Road from Lalit Ghat to Kralsangri will remain restricted on Saturday from 8:30 am until the conclusion of the Run for Unity event, Traffic Police said. According to an advisory, the event, being organised to mark Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, will start from SKICC and conclude at the Botanical []
Srinagar, Oct 30: Police on Friday said they have dismantled an alleged terror-financing network in Shopian after tracing suspicious online transactions through multiple payment platforms. The investigation revealed money trails across several layers and allegedly uncovered links between those involved and terrorists or associates held in different jails, police said in a statement issued here, []
Commissioner SMC reviews PMAY-U 2.0 implementation
Srinagar, Oct 30: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Dr. Basharat Qayoom, today reviewed the progress of Pradhan Mantri Awas YojanaUrban 2.0 (PMAY-U 2.0). He took stock of application process, beneficiary verification and measures being undertaken to ensure that eligible families can avail themselves of the benefits of the scheme without unnecessary delays. During the meeting, the Commissioner stressed the need to expedite the verification and scrutiny of applications, particularly those pending at various levels. He directed the concerned officers to work in close coordination, resolve procedural issues promptly and ensure that all eligible applications are processed within the stipulated time frame. Dr. Basharat emphasised that the implementation of PMAY-U 2.0 must remain focused on reaching deserving households, particularly those belonging to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Low-Income Groups (LIG). He stressed that the verification process must be conducted carefully and transparently, ensuring that genuine beneficiaries do not face unnecessary difficulties. The Commissioner also called for intensified awareness activities at the ward level, directing the concerned officers to organise awareness camps, facilitate online registrations and provide the necessary assistance through ward offices. He stressed the importance of ensuring that people are adequately informed about the eligibility criteria, documentation requirements and application procedures under the scheme. Highlighting the role of Ward Officers and CLTC Experts, he called for their greater involvement at the grassroots level to guide applicants, address their concerns and assist families who may face difficulties with the online registration process. He underscored that wider public awareness and effective facilitation are essential to ensure that no eligible household is left out due to a lack of information or procedural hurdles. The Commissioner directed all concerned departments and field functionaries to maintain close coordination and pursue the implementation process with urgency, ensuring transparent verification and time-bound disposal of applications.
Ladakhi Brands thank UT Administration for opportunity to showcase local craftsmanship at Lakm
Leh, October 30, 2026: The founders of Changra Ladakh and Norling Looms and Arts today called on Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, at the UT Secretariat in Leh and expressed their gratitude to the UT Administration for facilitating their participation in Lakm Fashion Week, New Delhi. The event provided them with a platform to [] The post Ladakhi Brands thank UT Administration for opportunity to showcase local craftsmanship at Lakm Fashion Week appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
