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Had A Very Satisfying, Excellent Tenure: Outgoing General Anil Chauhan On Supperannuating As Chief Of Defence Staff

New Delhi, May 30: Outgoing Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Saturday said he had a very satisfying and excellent tenure as he bid farewell to military service after receiving a ceremonial Guard of Honour and laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in the national capital. Reflecting on the conclusion of his service, General Chauhan said it was a great honour to receive the Tri-Services Guard of Honour and thanked the three services and Headquarters [] The post Had A Very Satisfying, Excellent Tenure: Outgoing General Anil Chauhan On Supperannuating As Chief Of Defence Staff appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 11:28 am

Blood test could help detect signs of Alzheimers disease decades before symptoms: Study

NEW DELHI, May 30: A blood test may be able to identify signs of Alzheimers disease decades before symptoms appear, with higher levels of biomarkers such as tau proteins in the brain signalling worse cognitive performance and an accelerated decline, a study published in The Lancet journal has suggested. The neurodegenerative condition steadily affects memory and thought processes, eventually interfering with daily functioning. The disease begins with the accumulation of amyloid-beta (A) protein plaques and phosphorylated tau protein tangles in [] The post Blood test could help detect signs of Alzheimers disease decades before symptoms: Study appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 11:02 am

Indias Digital Payments Boom: What Do UPI Payments Offer?

India has seen a rapid rise in digital payments in the last decade, withthe Unified Payments Interface (UPI) leading the charge. It has changed how millions of Indians make payments, offering a seamless way with which to transfer money. With a growing user base, it is especially popular among those engaged in online betting or live casino experiences. As an industry that is growing, UPI is helping to enhance accessibility and convenience for players, so lets look at what it [] The post Indias Digital Payments Boom: What Do UPI Payments Offer? appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 11:01 am

Goa will play significant role in building Viksit Bharat: Murmu on statehood day

NEW DELHI, May 30: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday greeted the people of Goa on statehood day and said the state would play a significant role in building a Viksit Bharat. Goa, which was a part of the Union Territory of Goa, Daman and Diu, was accorded statehood on this day in 1987. Heartiest greetings to the people of Goa on Statehood Day! Goa is renowned not only for its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, but also for its [] The post Goa will play significant role in building Viksit Bharat: Murmu on statehood day appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 10:50 am

Two Killed As Truck Plunges Into Gorge, Catches Fire On NH-44 In Ramban

Ramban, May 30: Two persons were killed after a truck veered off the road, plunged into a deep gorge and caught fire near Gangroo in the Ramsoo area of Ramban district along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) on Saturday. Officials said the truck reportedly went out of the drivers control while travelling on the highway and skidded off the road before falling into the gorge. Soon after the accident, the vehicle was engulfed in flames, creating panic in the area. [] The post Two Killed As Truck Plunges Into Gorge, Catches Fire On NH-44 In Ramban appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 10:21 am

No final understanding reached: Iran rejects Trumps pressure for ceasefire

Tehran , May 30 : The tedious negotiations on the ceasefire deal continue as Iran said that no final understanding has been reached, rejecting suggestions that Tehran would act under external pressure, Iranian state media Press TV reported. Irans Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei told state television, Tehran has said goodbye to the language of must 47 years ago. None of the Western parties can use the language of must when they talk about the Islamic Republic of Iran. We make our own decisions based on the interests and rights of the Iranian nation.His remarks came after US President Donald Trump claimed on social media that the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz was being lifted and that a decision on an agreement with Iran would be taken soon. Ships caught in the Strait due to our amazing and unprecedented Naval Blockade, which will now be lifted, may start the process of heading home! Say HELLO to your wives, husbands, parents, and families from me, your favorite President! Trump said. Baghaei described the US maritime measures as illegal from the start, alleging that they violated the ceasefire that took effect on April 8 and international principles governing freedom of navigation, Press TV reported. We have to see in practice whether they will actually follow through on their words or if this is just a propaganda claim, he said, adding that any reversal of the measures would amount to ending an action that should never have been committed in the first place. Iran had tightened controls in the Strait of Hormuz following the conflict that began on February 28 and subsequent US measures targeting Iranian vessels and ports, according to Iranian authorities. Baghaei said Tehran views the US actions as inconsistent with the terms of the ceasefire and claimed that some measures had been extended unilaterally by Washington. He also said indirect talks between Iran and the United States are continuing through mediators, with discussions focused on ending hostilities, addressing maritime issues and resolving matters related to Iranian assets abroad. Speaking on the most vital topic of the deal, Baghaei said, Regarding the nuclear issue, we have no negotiations.The US President, on the other hand, has repeatedly claimed that the US has made it clear to Tehran that it cannot continue its uranium enrichment programme to develop nuclear weapons. Referring to the Strait of Hormuz, Baghaei said the waterway lies within the territorial waters of Iran and Oman and stressed the need for mechanisms that safeguard the interests and security of both coastal states while ensuring safe passage for international shipping, Press TV reported. Certainly Iran and Oman, as two responsible countries, must adopt mechanisms that preserve their national interests and security as coastal states and also give the international community assurance that shipping through this route is conducted safely, he said. However, the US had earlier warned Oman against any involvement in allegedly facilitating a tolling system in the Strait of Hormuz with Iran, stating that Washington will not tolerate such efforts and will take action against those involved. Later, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that Oman assured him that it has no plans to put a toll on the Strait of Hormuz with Iran and wants to continue the good relations between the two countries. Meanwhile, Irans Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that Iran has no trust in guarantees or words of the US, stating that the actions will only decide the fate of the ceasefire agreement. We seize concessions not through dialogue, but with missiles; in negotiations, we merely make them understand. We have no trust in guarantees or wordsonly actions are the measure. No action will be taken before the other side acts. The winner of any agreement is the one who is better prepared for war from the day after, he said. (ANI)

RisingKashmir 30 May 2026 10:13 am

Jammu Fast Track Court Acquits Man After 19 Months in Jail in Rape Case

SRINAGAR: A Fast Track Court in Jammu has acquitted a man who spent more than 19 months in prison in connection with a rape case, observing that the allegations against him remained unsubstantiated and that the investigation was seriously flawed. The judgment was delivered by Amarjeet Singh Langeh, who held that there was no credible []

KashmirLife 30 May 2026 10:00 am

EMPLOYMENT (30-05-2026)

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Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 9:57 am

Op Sindoor Defined Indias Response To Provocation: Army Chief

PUNE, May 30: Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Saturday said Operation Sindoor had set a benchmark for when national will was expressed with precision and resolve, defining Indias response to provocation. Reviewing the passing-out parade of the 150th course at NDA, Khadakwasla, General Dwivedi said the world cadets were stepping into does not pause for introductions and threats today do not always arrive in uniform or on a declared front. From contested grey zones to high-velocity hybrid [] The post Op Sindoor Defined Indias Response To Provocation: Army Chief appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 9:42 am

Former DDC Vice Chairmans Alleged Illegal Structure Razed in Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: The district administration in Samba on Friday demolished an alleged illegal structure belonging to Balwan Singh, former Vice Chairman of the District Development Council (DDC) and a BJP leader from Sumb block, as part of an anti-encroachment drive in Jammu and Kashmirs Samba district. Officials said the structure, comprising two to three rooms and []

KashmirLife 30 May 2026 9:30 am

Anti-terror search operation enters eighth day in J&Ks Rajouri

Rajouri, May 30 : A joint anti-terror operation by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) entered its eighth day on Saturday in the dense forest areas of Gambhir Mughlan and Dorimal in the Manjakote sector of Rajouri district, with security forces continuing efforts to track down suspected terrorists believed to be hiding in the region. The operation, codenamed Operation Sheruwali, is being carried out jointly by the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the CRPF. It was launched following specific intelligence inputs indicating the presence of suspected terrorists in the region. According to officials, security personnel have maintained a tight cordon around the forest belt while conducting intensive search and combing operations deep inside the rugged terrain. The operation has grown into one of the major counter-terrorism exercises in the district in recent months, with forces deploying additional manpower and resources to prevent any escape by the terrorists. The operation reached a critical stage on Thursday when heavy firing and shelling were reported from the Dorimal forest area. Security forces subsequently tightened the security perimeter and strengthened their presence across key routes in and around the dense forest zone.Officials said reinforcements and logistical support have been rushed to the area to establish what they described as a strong and impenetrable cordon. The move is aimed at ensuring that suspected militants remain trapped within the designated area while search teams continue their operations.The challenging terrain and thick forest cover have added to the complexity of the mission, requiring forces to proceed cautiously while maintaining constant surveillance. Security agencies are using all available resources to track the movement of the suspected terrorists and eliminate any threat posed by their presence in the region. The entire area remains under heightened security, with access to certain locations being closely monitored. Officials said search operations would continue until the area is fully sanitised and all security concerns are addressed. (ANI)

RisingKashmir 30 May 2026 9:27 am

Rajouri Anti-Militancy Operation Enters Eighth Day

SRINAGAR: Militants remained untraced despite multiple contacts and exchanges of fire with security forces as a massive joint anti-militancy operation in the forest areas of Rajouri district entered its eighth day on Saturday. The operation, codenamed Operation Sheruwali, is underway in the dense forest stretches of Gambhir Mughlan and Dorimal in the Manjakote sector following []

KashmirLife 30 May 2026 9:00 am

Melting Glaciers Part 16:Kashmirs highest mountains warming faster than cities; glaciers lost 17% area in 3 decades

Jhelum system relies heavily on snow, glacier melt; continued warming may initially increase discharge but lead to long-term decline Abid Bashir Srinagar, May 29: Kashmirs highest mountains are warming faster than its cities, triggering rapid glacier retreat, shrinking snow reserves and altering the fragile balance of the Himalayan ecosystem, according to a major scientific study conducted by the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Kashmir. The research, led by renowned glaciologist Professor Shakil Ahmad Romshoo and his team, examined nine benchmark glaciers across the Kashmir Himalayas using Landsat satellite data collected between 1980 and 2013. The findings reveal a stark transformation underway in the upper reaches of the Valley where temperatures are rising more aggressively at elevations above 3,000 metres. Scientists found that glaciers in the region have lost nearly 17 per cent of their area over the past three decades. The study also recorded a significant upward shift in the equilibrium line altitude (ELA) the boundary between snow accumulation and snow melt bynearly 80 to 300 metres. For researchers, the upward movement of snowlines is among the clearest signs that high-altitude Kashmir is heating rapidly. When snow survives only at increasingly higher elevations, it indicates that lower mountain zones are no longer cold enough to sustain permanent ice, the study explains. The findings add to growing global evidence that mountain regions are warming faster than lowland areas, a phenomenon scientists describe as elevation-dependent warming. Unlike urban heat trapped by concrete and pollution in cities, Himalayan warming is being driven by complex climatic shifts involving declining snow cover, changing precipitation patterns and increased heat absorption by exposed rocky surfaces. As glaciers melt and snow cover reduces, darker mountain terrain absorbs more solar radiation instead of reflecting it back into the atmosphere. Scientists say this creates a dangerous feedback loop that accelerates warming further. The study observed a significant rise in annual air temperatures across the Kashmir Himalayas, while precipitation showed only a slight and statistically insignificant decline. Researchers concluded that temperature rise remains the dominant factor behind glacier retreat in the region. Experts warn that the consequences extend far beyond the mountains themselves. Kashmirs glaciers function as natural water reservoirs, releasing meltwater gradually into rivers and streams during summer months. The shrinking cryosphere could therefore affect irrigation, drinking water supplies, hydropower generation and even horticulture-dependent livelihoods across the Valley. The Jhelum river system and many of its tributaries rely heavily on snow and glacier melt originating in the higher Himalayas. Scientists caution that continued warming at high elevations may initially increase river discharge due to accelerated melting, but over time, it could lead to declining water availability once glacier reserves diminish substantially. The study also found that not all glaciers reacted equally to climate change. Some glaciers showed faster retreat despite being exposed to similar climatic conditions. Researchers attributed these differences to local topographic factors such as slope, altitude, debris cover and glacier orientation. This means geography is now playing a critical role in determining which glaciers survive longer in a warming Kashmir Himalaya. Outside the polar regions, the Himalayas contain one of the largest concentrations of ice in the world and are often referred to as Asias water towers. Their glaciers feed major river systems including the Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra, sustaining millions of people downstream. Climate experts believe the latest findings from Kashmir should serve as an urgent warning for policymakers and environmental planners. Researchers have stressed the need for long-term glacier monitoring, scientific mapping of snow reserves and climate adaptation strategies to prepare for future water stress in the region. For now, the crisis remains largely invisible to most people living in the Valley below. But high above Kashmirs pine forests and alpine meadows, the Himalayas are already changing and warming faster than ever before.

RisingKashmir 30 May 2026 8:51 am

National Mission on Edible OilsOilseeds:

J&K sees fluctuated pattern in allocation, release of funds in 5 years Mission aims to boost domestic oilseed production, cut imports Ovaise Gul Srinagar, May 29: Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a fluctuating pattern in allocation and release of funds under the National Mission on Edible OilsOilseeds (NMEO-OS) over the past five years, with the Union Territory receiving Rs 12.28 crore allocation for 2025-26, the highest during the period from 2021-22 to 2025-26. According to the annual report by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, Jammu and Kashmir received an allocation of Rs 2.49 crore during 2021-22, against which Rs 0.81 crore was released. In 2022-23, the allocation stood at Rs 2.17 crore, but no funds were released during the year. For 2023-24, J&K was allocated Rs 1.90 crore and received Rs 0.48 crore. During 2024-25, the allocation increased to Rs 3.43 crore, while the release stood at Rs 0.85 crore. For the current financial year 2025-26, the allocation for Jammu and Kashmir has been significantly enhanced to Rs 12.28 crore, while Rs 1.56 crore has been released so far under the scheme. The data forms part of the Centres broader expenditure under the National Mission on Edible Oils. Official documents reveal that under the Edible OilOilseeds component, the Government of India released Rs 676.23 crore during 2024-25 against a revised allocation of Rs 630.78 crore for implementation in states and central agencies. Similarly, under the Edible OilOil Palm component, Rs 459.69 crore was released against a budgetary allocation of Rs 1000 crore during the same period. For 2025-26, the Budget Estimate under NMEO-OS has been fixed at Rs 745.03 crore, while Rs 624.64 crore has already been released. Under NMEO-Oil Palm, the Budget Estimate stands at Rs 802.95 crore, with Rs 750.18 crore released so far. Officials said the mission aims to boost domestic oilseed production, reduce dependence on edible oil imports and encourage cultivation support across states and Union Territories, including Jammu and Kashmir.

RisingKashmir 30 May 2026 8:49 am

Kashmir feels familiar to a Swiss

Idrees Bukhtiyar Srinagar, May 29: Switzerlands Ambassador to India, Maya Tissafi, who is currently on a visit to the Kashmir valley, highlighted the growing collaboration between Switzerland and Jammu & Kashmir in areas such as sustainable tourism, climate research, infrastructure, vocational training and agriculture. Sharing her experiences from the valley on X, the ambassador drew parallels between the scenic landscapes of Kashmir and Switzerland, saying Bollywood films had made both destinations iconic on screen. From Shah Rukh Khans DDLJ to Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Bollywood made both Switzerland and Gulmarg unforgettable on screen. Seeing Gulmarg for the first time, I could understand why filmmakers keep returning to these valleys, she wrote. The ambassador, however, said that mountain regions also shared common challenges and responsibilities, particularly in the areas of resilience, sustainable tourism and disaster risk reduction. She said Switzerland and Kashmir were already working together in the region through initiatives such as a Himalayan glaciology collaborative programme at the University of Kashmir and cloud research with ETH Zurich. During her visit, the ambassador also appreciated Kashmirs traditional craftsmanship, including the work of shawl and carpet makers. Along the way, I also had the opportunity to witness the artistry of Kashmirs shawl and carpet makers, and it was just as beautiful as the landscape itself, she said. The envoy held meetings in Srinagar with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and former minister Sajad Lone to discuss opportunities for collaboration in Kashmir. According to the ambassador, discussions focused on sustainable tourism, vocational training, hospitality, food processing, agriculture and innovation in high-altitude climate studies. She said Swiss expertise was already contributing to Kashmirs development through private sector involvement in infrastructure projects, including tunnels, bridges and hydropower technology, besides joint research initiatives and dairy farming. The breathtaking mountains of Kashmir feel wonderfully familiar to a Swiss, she wrote, adding that her visit also included a tour of Srinagars famous Nishat Garden and interactions over traditional Kashmiri kahwa. The ambassador described the visit as a memorable introduction to the spirit of Kashmir and expressed optimism about expanding future cooperation between Switzerland and the region.

RisingKashmir 30 May 2026 8:45 am

J&K, Switzerland to exchange best practices in key sectors: CM Omar

Swiss Ambassador to India Maya Tissafi calls on Chief Minister Abdullah RK News Service Srinagar, May 29: Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to India, Maya Tissafi,on Friday called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss areas of mutual interest and cooperation.The meeting explored opportunities for the exchange of best practices in sustainable tourism, hospitality, vocational education and training, horticulture, dairying, and eco-friendly food processing. During the interaction, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of adopting best practices in these sectors to further strengthen Jammu and Kashmirs socio-economic development and ensure long-term prosperity for its people. Abdullah highlighted the governments vision of integrating innovative and sustainable approaches into regional planning and human development frameworks aimed at creating employment opportunities, enhancing productivity, and improving the overall quality of life. Ambassador Tissafi, who ison a visit to Kashmir, appreciated the natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and immense economic potential of the Union Territory.She expressed interest in exploring avenues for greater collaboration and knowledge sharing. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of cooperation in promoting sustainable development and inclusive growth.

RisingKashmir 30 May 2026 8:43 am

Eid-ul-Adha celebrated with fervour across J&K

Ovaise Gul Srinagar, May 29: Eid-ul-Adha, the festival of sacrifice, was celebrated with religious fervour and zeal across Jammu and Kashmir. The celebrationscommencewith special Eid prayers at the shrines and Masjids across the region on Wednesday (May 27), while the major congregation was held at Hazratbal Shrine here, where thousands of devotees from the different parts of the Valley participated. Religious scholars, during sermons,highlighted the significance of sacrifice, compassion, brotherhood and communal harmony associated with Eid-ul-Adha. Special prayers were offered for peace, prosperity and the well-being of the people. Following the prayers, people exchanged Eid greetings and visited relatives, friends and neighbours. Soon after theculmination of mandatory Eid prayers, thebelievers performed the religiousobligations by sacrificing theanimals, a Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). The markets, parks and gardens witnessed a massive rush during the last three days as the children wearing colourful clothes visited the places to enjoy and celebrate the auspicious occasion. Moreover, authoritieshadmade elaborate arrangements to facilitatethe smooth conduct of prayers and celebrations. Traffic management, sanitation, healthcare and security arrangements were put in place at major congregation sites across the Union Territory. Political leaders, religious organisations and social groups extended greetings to the people on the occasion and prayed for lasting peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir. Ahead of the festival, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Council of Ministers extended greetings to the people.

RisingKashmir 30 May 2026 8:40 am

US, China trade journalist expulsions days after Trump visits Xi in Beijing

Washington, May 30: The Trump administration has revoked the visa of a Chinese national working for the state news agency Xinhua in the United States, in an apparent reciprocal act to Beijing's decision to expel a New York Times reporter. A person familiar with the matter confirmed the visa had been revoked. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the matter involves visa privacy. A State Department official confirmed there was a plan to revoke the visa. The tit-for-tat move by the Trump administration has followed the expulsion by Beijing of Vivian Wang, a China correspondent for The New York Times, apparently over the appearance of the Taiwanese leader in a DealBook event in which Wang had no role. It was a rare occasion of the US government directly retaliating against Beijing's expulsion of American journalists. The Times, which first reported the reciprocal move by the Trump administration, said the newspaper does not ask governments to revoke media credentials or otherwise interfere with the work of any journalist. On Friday, the paper issued a statement calling for Wang to be reinstated as a credentialed journalist in China and urging both governments to everse this deterioration in journalist access. The Chinese government's decision to expel Vivian Wang is wrong, Joseph Kahn, the paper's executive editor, said in a statement published on the Times' corporate website. Her expulsion will make it even harder for our global audience to get accurate, independent and in-depth reporting about the world's second-largest economy at a critical time. The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. US media presence in China already dwindled Wang is leaving China when the presence of US media is already thin after previous rounds of disputes over journalistic credentials, leaving several US news organisations with skeleton staffing in their China bureaus. The number of correspondents from American media outlets allowed to work in China has now fallen to an alarmingly low level, at a time when the need for people everywhere to understand China is greater than ever, Kahn wrote. Beijing moved to expel Wang, a China correspondent for the newspaper since 2020, after the media group's DealBook Summit 2025 featured Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te in a recorded interview with host Andrew Ross Sorkin. Sorkin called Taiwan a country, and Lai warned of Beijing's aggressive behaviour in the Taiwan Strait and vowed that Taiwan will do everything necessary to protect itself. The Chinese government claims sovereignty over Taiwan, which split from the mainland in 1949 after Mao Zedong's communists won a civil war. In the latest summit with President Donald Trump in Beijing, in mid-May, Chinese President Xi Jinping warned that China and the US could collide or even clash over Taiwan if the issue is not handled properly. Other Western media watching closely The decision against the New York Times also has created unease among other Western media that might interview Lai, giving the self-governed island a voice, at the risk of losing their abilities to report within China. All foreign journalists must be accredited by China's foreign ministry to report in China, and Beijing has used the accreditation and visa policy to expel or keep out foreign journalists whose work has upset the Chinese leadership or to show displeasure with what Beijing views as unfavourable or malicious coverage of China. In 2020, for example, the Chinese government expelled three Wall Street Journal correspondents after the financial newspaper ran an opinion piece titled China is the Real Sick Man of Asia following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. As US-China relations soured, the US State Department in 2020 designated some major Chinese news groups as foreign missions. Xinhua, for example, is tasked by the ruling Chinese Communist Party to serve as the mouthpiece of the party and the government, which includes distributing their official news. Beijing in turn drastically limited visas for journalists working for US media. In total, at least 18 foreign journalists working for The Washington Post, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal were expelled in the first half of 2020, according to the Foreign Correspondents' Club of China. Many others were given short visas ranging from one month to three months, according to the group's annual survey. The two governments later reached a one-time agreement that allowed US media to send in a small number of correspondents to mainland China. Wang was one of them.

Greater Kashmir 30 May 2026 8:38 am

Trump ponders whether to move forward with Iran deal but hasnt yet decided

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump held a White House Situation Room meeting with his advisers on Friday but has not yet made a decision on whether to move forward with a deal to extend the Iran ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iran said the agreement has not been finalised. Ahead of the meeting, []

Kashmir Reader 30 May 2026 6:39 am

Balochistan: When a State loses its people

Pushp Saraf pushpsaraf@yahoo.com Pakistans south-western province of Balochistan remains on fire. That grim reality was brought home once again when a suicide bomber struck a shuttle train in Quetta on May 24, killing at least 24 Pakistani security personnel and their family members. The attack is the latest in a sustained and deliberate pattern of strikes targeting trains, security forces, and critical infrastructure. There is no sign of abating. The violence, however, is only one dimension of a crisis that [] The post Balochistan: When a State loses its people appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:59 am

Ladakhs unified mobilisation shows the value of inclusive politics

Rekha Chowdhary rekchowdhary@gmail.com Seven years after 2019, Leh and Kargils long struggle for statehood and constitutional safeguards has turned into a unified political movement. The recent political developments related to Ladakh mark the culmination of nearly seven years of sustained political mobilisation around questions of representation, autonomy, constitutional safeguards and regional empowerment. Although the demand for full-fledged statehood remains unresolved, most of the major demands articulated by Ladakhi political organisations have now received acceptance in principle. The latest negotiations between [] The post Ladakhs unified mobilisation shows the value of inclusive politics appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:55 am

IIM Jammu concludes 19th batch of Nurturing Future Leadership Program

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: Indian Institute of Management Jammu concluded the 19th batch of the Nurturing Future Leadership Program (NFLP) under the aegis of the Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Programme (MMTTP), Ministry of Education, Government of India, here today. The five-day residential programme, organized by the Executive Education & Consultancy (EE&C), IIM Jammu, brought together 12 participants from institutions across India. The valedictory ceremony was attended by Prof Rajesh Sikka, Co-Chairperson, Executive Education & Consultancy (EE&C), IIM Jammu, Dr [] The post IIM Jammu concludes 19th batch of Nurturing Future Leadership Program appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:47 am

NEET: It must be neat

Rayaz Malik Budhalwi razver1981@gmail.com After the enactment of NMC Act 2019, the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) Exam is conducted annually by NTA (National Testing Agency), an organization under the aegis of Ministry of Education, Government of India. NEET is conducted specifically for admission of candidates to medical courses in Undergraduate and Postgraduate level. They include MBBS, BUMS, BAMS, BHMS, BDS and other PG / Specialization Courses in all the medical colleges in India including AIIMS Delhi and Jawaharlal [] The post NEET: It must be neat appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:45 am

Director FCS&CA conducts tour of Bani-Basohli

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: In order to have a field outreach with consumers and employees of the department, Director FCS&CA, Jammu, Rajesh Kumar Shavan visited Basohli and Bani. The Director met with the employees and interacted with them to have first hand information about the functioning. He reviewed the supplies of essential supplies. In Basohli, he visited Food store and fair price shops. The officer also interacted with consumers and received feedback about civil supplies. In Bani the Director [] The post Director FCS&CA conducts tour of Bani-Basohli appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:45 am

Dr Jitendra to inaugurate 4th Lavender Festival at Bhaderwah on June 6

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: The CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Jammu, is set to organize the 4th Lavender Festival on 6th-7th June, under the theme, Lavender goes global, at the Government Degree College, Bhaderwah, Doda, celebrating the continued success of the Purple Revolution and lavender-based rural entrepreneurship in Jammu and Kashmir. Click here to watch video Addressing a curtain raiser press conference at CSIR-IIIM, Jammu, Dr Zabeer Ahmed, Director CSIR-IIIM, announced that the 4th Lavender Festival will be [] The post Dr Jitendra to inaugurate 4th Lavender Festival at Bhaderwah on June 6 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:30 am

Swiss Ambassador to India calls on CM

Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 29: The Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to India, Maya Tissafi, today called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss areas of mutual interest and cooperation. The meeting explored opportunities for the exchange of best practices in sustainable tourism, hospitality, vocational education and training, horticulture, dairying, and eco-friendly food processing. During the interaction, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of adopting best practices in these sectors to further strengthen Jammu and Kashmirs socio-economic development and ensure [] The post Swiss Ambassador to India calls on CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:29 am

KRSF delegation, others call on LG

Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, May 29: A delegation of Kashmir Road Safety Foundation (KRSF), led by its Chairman Nasir Ali Khan, called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, today. The members of the delegation briefed the Lieutenant Governor on the upcoming Youth Against Drugs National Sports Festival 2026, aimed at strengthening the fight against drug abuse among youth. The initiative is expected to witness participation from teams representing eight states as well as two teams from Nepal, promoting the message of a [] The post KRSF delegation, others call on LG appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:28 am

DyCM inspects development projects, reviews healthcare facilities in Nowshera

Excelsior Correspondent NOWSHERA, May 29: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today conducted an extensive tour of Nowshera, inspecting various developmental works and healthcare facilities in the region. During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister met several delegations and individuals who apprised him of various public issues, development needs and local concerns. He also visited Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Nowshera to assess the healthcare facilities and patient care being provided at the institution. During interaction with the patients, attendants and hospital staff, [] The post DyCM inspects development projects, reviews healthcare facilities in Nowshera appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:26 am

Baldev Raj for taking up restoration works in Latori on priority

Visits affected areas Excelsior Correspondent KATRA, May 29: MLA Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, constituency, Baldev Raj Sharma today conducted an extensive joint inspection visit to various affected spots in Village Latori, Panchayat Latori Dhanori, in connection with the damages caused due to the ongoing construction work of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway. The inspection was carried out jointly with the Project Director, NHAI PIU Udhampur, Project Manager, APCO Company, along with officials and technical staff of NHAI and APCO Company besides the [] The post Baldev Raj for taking up restoration works in Latori on priority appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:25 am

Hazarika posted as ADDC Bla, Vishavjeet ADC Billawar

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: The Jammu and Kashmir Government today ordered the transfers and postings of one IAS and one JKAS officer. As per an order, 2021 batch AGMUT cadre IAS officer Pranjal J Hazarika, Additional Secretary to the Government, Labour and Employment Department, has been transferred and posted as Additional District Development Commissioner Baramulla against an available vacancy. The order further said that JKAS officer Vishavjeet Singh, who is currently awaiting orders of posting in the General Administration [] The post Hazarika posted as ADDC Bla, Vishavjeet ADC Billawar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:23 am

Preventive detention cant override ordinary law without compelling reasons: HC

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has quashed the Public Safety Act detention of Saddam Husain, holding that preventive detention cannot be invoked in substitution of ordinary legal measures unless the detaining authority records compelling reasons showing why such proceedings are insufficient. Allowing a Habeas Corpus petition, Justice Rajesh Sekhri set aside detention order No. PSA/159 dated May 21, 2025, passed by the District Magistrate, Kathua, and directed the immediate release of [] The post Preventive detention cant override ordinary law without compelling reasons: HC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:22 am

JKHCBAJ bids farewell to Chief Justice

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: The Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association, Jammu (JKHCBAJ) today organised a farewell function to bid adieu to the Chief Justice Arun Palli on his elevation as the Judge of the Supreme Court of India. Click here to watch video The function started with the presentation of memento and shawl to honour Chief Justice by the team of office bearers led by President K Nirmal Kotwal alongwith, Vice President Baldev Singh, General Secretary Pardeep [] The post JKHCBAJ bids farewell to Chief Justice appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:21 am

Searches continue in Rajouri, Poonch

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: Security forces continued searches in Dorimal and surrounding villages of Gambhir Mugalan area in Rajouri district for seventh consecutive today to track down two to three suspected terrorists who may have been still hiding in the area after initial contact on the Day one. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Security forces continued to target specific suspected terrorist hideouts with heavy firepower as the ultras continued shifting positions across the difficult terrain, valleys and [] The post Searches continue in Rajouri, Poonch appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:09 am

Court denies bail to accused in alleged narco network

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 27: Coming down heavily on alleged drug trafficking aimed at poisoning the youth of Jammu, the Court of Special Judge (NDPS Cases), Jammu, has rejected the bail plea of Mohd Aslam alias Bachu, accused of being part of an organised narcotics network allegedly operating under notorious criminal and drug kingpin Gulzar Ahmed alias Lahu Gujjar. Special Judge Parvaiz Iqbal dismissed the bail application in FIR No. 58/2026 of Police Station Bishnah, registered under Sections 8/21/22/25/29 of [] The post Court denies bail to accused in alleged narco network appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:09 am

Janhavi wins All India Chess Masters season 4

MUMBAI, May 29: Janhavi Soneji (1792) emerged as the winner of the Mumbai FIDE Rated All India Chess Masters season four following a draw against AGM Rajveer Pinkesh Nahar (1801) here on Friday. Coming into the final round as one of the tournament leaders, Janhavi displayed consistency like she did throughout the tournament. Janhavi handled the white pieces confidently and opted for the Scotch Opening. The game developed into a battle featuring opposite-side castling, with both players seeking attacking chances [] The post Janhavi wins All India Chess Masters season 4 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:08 am

Shagun Parihar meets Dr Jitendra Singh, discusses developmental issues

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: MLA Kishtwar, Shagun Parihar, today called on Union MoS (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and PMO, Dr. Jitendra Singh and held a detailed discussion on the developmental issues concerning Kishtwar. During meeting, Shagun apprised the Minister about the developmental aspirations and requirements of Kishtwar and sought his continued support for the holistic and balanced development of the Constituency. She highlighted the need for expeditious implementation of various Centrally Sponsored Schemes and ongoing infrastructure projects [] The post Shagun Parihar meets Dr Jitendra Singh, discusses developmental issues appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:08 am

Normal to below rainfall likely

NEW DELHI, May 29: The June-September southwest monsoon seasonal rainfall over India is expected to be 90 per cent of the long-period average with a model error of 4 per cent, the India Meteorological Department said on Friday. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp While the Northeast is likely to witness normal rainfall this monsoon season, the remaining parts of the country may see below normal rainfall, the weather office said. The Long-Period Average (LPA) of seasonal rainfall over [] The post Normal to below rainfall likely appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:07 am

Garbage piles up across Kathua amid sanitation workers strike

Locals express concern over health hazards Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, May, 29: Kathua town is witnessing growing insanitation concerns as heaps of garbage continued to accumulate in different areas due to the ongoing strike by sanitation workers. Overflowing waste on roadsides, streets, and public places have created an unhygienic atmosphere, raising serious concerns among local residents about the possible outbreak of diseases. Residents from various parts of the town expressed worry over the deteriorating sanitation conditions and appealed to the administration [] The post Garbage piles up across Kathua amid sanitation workers strike appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:07 am

Arvind kick starts lane development works worth Rs 22 lakh

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: MLA Jammu West, Arvind Gupta on Friday kick started lane development works worth Rs 22 lakh in Ward No. 26 of the Jammu West Assembly constituency, reaffirming his commitment towards strengthening civic infrastructure and ensuring better public amenities for the residents. The project has been undertaken to improve local connectivity, sanitation and overall infrastructure in the area, and is expected to provide significant convenience to the residents of the locality. Speaking on the occasion, Arvind [] The post Arvind kick starts lane development works worth Rs 22 lakh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:06 am

DC Kishtwar inaugurates Paddar Premier League 2026

Excelsior Sports Correspondent KISHTWAR, May 29: Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma today inaugurated the Paddar Premier League 2026 Cricket Tournament at Chhatargarh Stadium, Gulabgarh in Paddar amid enthusiastic participation of local youth and sports lovers. The tournament is being organised by the local administration of Paddar in collaboration with the Department of Youth Services and Sports, Kishtwar, along with other stakeholders. The event aims to promote sportsmanship, youth engagement and healthy recreational activities in the region under the ongoing [] The post DC Kishtwar inaugurates Paddar Premier League 2026 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:06 am

Nutraj felicitates Para Asian gold medalist Chandeep

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, May 29: Nutraj felicitated Asian Para Taekwondo Gold Medalist Chandeep Singh at a special ceremony organised at the VKC Nuts office complex, Birpur, Jammu, today. Chandeep Singh won the gold medal in the K41 Men +80 KG category at the 11th Asian Para Taekwondo Championships 2026 held in Mongolia, bringing laurels to the country through his outstanding performance. The felicitation ceremony was led by Gagan Jain, Director, Nutraj, who praised the athlete for his resilience, determination [] The post Nutraj felicitates Para Asian gold medalist Chandeep appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 4:05 am

Hajj 2026 ends with over 1.7M pilgrims

Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment to serving Islam, Muslims Makkah: Saudi Arabia announced on Friday the successful completion of this years Hajj season, saying an integrated system of security, organization, and services enabled pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind. The announcement was made by Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Abdulaziz, deputy []

Kashmir Reader 30 May 2026 3:18 am

CM for adoption of global best practices to strengthen J&Ks socio-economic dev

Swiss Ambassador to India Maya Tissafi calls on Omar Abdullah Cooperation in areas of sustainable development, inclusive growth discussed Srinagar: The Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to India, Maya Tissafi, today called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss areas of mutual interest and cooperation. The meeting explored opportunities for the exchange of best practices []

Kashmir Reader 30 May 2026 3:18 am

Govt mulling expansion of BSFs operational mandate: Home Minister

Bhuj: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that the government was considering expansion of the BSFs operational mandate by assigning it new sectors, and announced that a new paradigm of territorial security will be added to complement conventional border security. Addressing BSF personnel on a visit to Gujarats Kutch district to review border []

Kashmir Reader 30 May 2026 3:16 am

15th Term Reconstitution: Press Council of India invites claims from eligible Associations of Persons

Closing date June 19, 2026 Jammu: The Press Council of India is a statutory quasi-judicial authority constituted by an Act of Parliament i.e. the Press Council Act, 1978, with the mandate for preserving the freedom of the press and maintaining and improving standards of press in India. The 14th term of the Press Council of []

Kashmir Reader 30 May 2026 3:15 am

Truth, Meaning, And Ethics: The Three Sovereign Questions That Govern All Others

The ultimate challenge of our age is not merely to answer these questions intellectually but to embody them personally and collectively. These are humanitys deepest inheritance and its most urgent responsibility. Shabeer Ahmad Lone Among the countless subjects that occupy human attention-wealth, status, politics, technology, entertainment, conflict, ambition-three questions remain sovereign because they quietly govern []

Kashmir Reader 30 May 2026 3:13 am

Final Selection List for the post of Welder of Horticulture Department, advertised vide Notification No. 01 of 2021 dated 03.02.2021, under Item No. 029

GOVERNMENT OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR JAMMU AND KASHMIR SERVICES SELECTION BOARD Muthi Akhnoor Road, Jammu/ Zam Zam Complex Rambagh, Srinagar Subject: Final Selection List for the post of Welder of Horticulture Department, advertised vide Notification No. 01 of 2021 dated 03.02.2021, under Item No. 029. Notification No. 29-Selection of 2026 26th of May 2026 Whereas, the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board, vide Indent No. Horti/56/2017 dated 15-10-2020 followed by Horti/56/2017 dated 14.01.2021, received (01) one Post of Welder with [] The post Final Selection List for the post of Welder of Horticulture Department, advertised vide Notification No. 01 of 2021 dated 03.02.2021, under Item No. 029 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 30 May 2026 12:08 am

PDP Leaders Visit Khimber to Greet Mehbooba on Eid

RK News Service Srinagar, May 29: Senior leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday visited the Khimber residence of party president Mehbooba Mufti to greet her on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Adha. The PDP delegation was led by senior spokesperson Iqbal Tramboo and included former MLA Noor Mohammad Sheikh, spokesperson Zuhaib Mir, former State Secretary Arif Laigroo, District Coordinator Dr Ali Mohammad, Constituency Incharge Zadibal Sheikh Gowher, Advocate Abdul Majid Dar, Zone Presidents Mohammad Shafi Kundangar, Khalid Mir and Sheikh. The leaders exchanged Eid greetings with Mehbooba Mufti and prayed for peace, prosperity, communal harmony and wellbeing of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, the PDP leaders also visited the residence of party General Secretary Khursheed Alam and extended Eid greetings to him and his family. The leaders said that Eid teaches values of sacrifice, compassion and unity and expressed hope that the festival would bring happiness and prosperity to the people across Jammu and Kashmir.

RisingKashmir 29 May 2026 11:21 pm

Public support drives NC Govt: Dr. Farooq

Meets number of public, individual delegations following Eid RK News Service Srinagar, 29 May: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah Friday said that the unwavering trust and continued support of the people of Jammu and Kashmir remain the driving force behind the National Conference government. Dr. Farooq made these remarks while interacting with members of the public and several individual delegations who called on him at his Gupkar residence to extend Eid greetings for the third consecutive day. Highlighting the partys enduring bond with the people, Dr. Farooq said that the National Conference derives its strength from the masses and has deep-rooted footprints across Jammu and Kashmir. He reiterated that the party remains committed to serving the people and addressing their aspirations with sincerity and dedication. On the occasion, Dr. Farooq also urged the people to pray for lasting peace, harmony, and prosperity in the Muslim world and across the globe. He emphasized the need for unity, compassion, and collective efforts to foster peace and brotherhood among all sections and nations of people. Several delegations and individuals conveyed Eid greetings to Dr. Farooq and wished peace, progress, and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

RisingKashmir 29 May 2026 11:19 pm

Dr Farooq calls for comprehensive probe into NEET paper leak

Says repeated exam irregularities jeopardising students future Stresses need for transparency and accountability Abid Bashir Srinagar, May 29: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Friday called for a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the alleged NEET paper leak, asserting that those responsible for playing with the future of students must be identified and dealt with strictly. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Abdullah voiced serious concern over the repeated controversies surrounding national-level competitive examinations and said such incidents have caused widespread distress among students and parents across the country. If there had been no loopholes in the system, such incidents would never have occurred, Abdullah said while reacting to reports of the alleged leak and the Centres move to involve the Army and the Indian Air Force in transporting examination papers to prevent further breaches. The NC president said the alleged leak reportedly surfaced in several BJP-ruled states and stressed that accountability must be fixed to restore public confidence in the examination process. There should be a thorough investigation and exemplary punishment for all those involved because it is the students who are suffering the most. Young aspirants are being asked to sit for examinations again in scorching heat, with temperatures crossing 48 degrees Celsius in some regions, he said. Abdullah said the integrity and credibility of competitive examinations must be safeguarded at every level as millions of students spend years preparing for such tests with dedication and hope. Repeated irregularities not only damage the system but also shatter the morale and confidence of deserving students, he added. Referring to the ongoing anti-terror operation in Rajouri district, Abdullah said violence and encounters have persisted for decades and reiterated that dialogue remains the only sustainable route to peace. There is no alternative to talks. Across the world, conflicts are ultimately resolved through dialogue and engagement, he said. Taking a swipe at the BJP over its claims regarding the post-Article 370 situation in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah remarked that people could themselves judge the prevailing circumstances on the ground. Commenting on the recent rape and murder of a minor girl in Budgam, the former chief minister termed the incident heartbreaking and said society must reconnect with moral, ethical and spiritual values to prevent such crimes. He urged people to strengthen their faith, uphold humanity and work collectively for the protection and wellbeing of society. Abdullah also underlined the importance of opposition in a democracy, saying constructive criticism helps governments rectify mistakes and take decisions in the larger public interest.

RisingKashmir 29 May 2026 11:18 pm

Govt Committed to Grassroots Development in J&K: Dy CM

Inspects development projects, reviews healthcare facilities in Nowshera RK News Service Nowshera, May 29: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Friday said that the government remains committed to responsive governance and strengthening grassroots development while conducting an extensive tour of Nowshera to review developmental works and assess public issues in the area. During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister met several delegations and individuals who apprised him of various public issues, development needs and local concerns. He also visited Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Nowshera to assess the healthcare facilities and patient care being provided at the institution. During interaction with the patients, attendants and hospital staff, the Deputy Chief Minister sought feedback regarding functioning of the hospital and the quality of services being delivered. He directed the concerned authorities to ensure better healthcare services, availability of essential facilities and timely treatment for the patients. He emphasised that public welfare and efficient healthcare delivery are among the top priorities of the government. The Deputy Chief Minister also inspected the Dak Bunglow Nowshera to review the ongoing works, maintenance and overall facilities aimed at improving public convenience and hospitality standards. He stressed the need for timely completion of works while maintaining quality standards to enhance the public utility and facilities for the visitors. The government is committed towards responsive governance and grassroots development. Meaningful public interactions immensely help in understanding the aspirations of the people and ensure that governance remains people-centric and result-oriented, maintaining the Deputy CM.

RisingKashmir 29 May 2026 11:17 pm

Government making all efforts to ensure availability of petrol, diesel and LPG, steps taken against diversion

New Delhi [India], May 29 : The government is working to strengthen fuel security through strategic reserves and ensuring uninterrupted supply, even as steps continue to be taken against hoarding, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said during an inter-ministerial briefing. Regarding strategic reserves, we are working on the strategic reserves also. And we have asked the oil marketing companies to work out that the LPG reserve that should be minimum 30 days with them and they are working on it. And similarly, for crude also, we are working, Sharma said, outlining the precautionary measures to safeguard against supply shocks. She assured that there is no shortage at present. We have sufficient stock of petrol, diesel and LPG, natural gas and fruit inventories are tied up. All our refineries are operating at optimum level and LPG production is all time high, almost 90 DMT per day. No dry out has been reported on LPG distributorship, Sharma said. But it is being seen on retail outlets that there is abnormal sale at many places. Some are due to agricultural demand and some are due to bulk sale, she added. More than 30% growth is being seen overall, with 14 districts reporting over 100% growth in petrol sales, while six districts saw a 38% drop in OMC sales. Sharma said that to check diversion, enforcement has been intensified. In the last four days, there have been 6,500 raids on LPG. Five FIRs have been registered and two people have been arrested, Sharma said. At retail outlets, 900 raids in two days led to seizure of 417 litres of petrol and 75,715 litres of diesel, with 12 FIRs and 15 arrests. On LPG availability, she explained that production varies with refinery optimization. Right now, the demand is something around 72 TMT and then we are producing 50 to 52 TMT in-house in our domestic refineries, she said, adding that the LPG backlog has come down to 4.5 days. Sharma said the government has cut excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre, costing Rs 14,000 crore per month, to keep prices stable. So these all efforts have been done to keep the price stable, she said, even as OMCs continue to face daily loss of Rs 550 crore. The government is trying to ensure the availability and delivery of LPG cylinders to all homes and availability of petrol and diesel to all petrol and diesel pumps. So, do not pay attention to rumors and try to save energy in your daily use. She also urged bulk and industrial consumers to buy diesel only from authorized procurement channels. (ANI)

RisingKashmir 29 May 2026 11:01 pm

A Name That Brings Pride

Naaz Sahib is a remarkable teacher everyone truly admires MENTOR MANZOOR AKASH Some teachers stay in our hearts long after they retire. Naaz sahib is one of them. Honestly, I have been planning to write about him for many weeks now. But today, without any further waste of time, I dont want to miss the opportunity to describe who he truly was. On a serene, quiet morning on the 4th of April, 1966, a modest home situated just a stones throw from the historic Nagraad Masjid in north Kashmirs Dangiwacha welcomed its youngest son, named Nazir Ahmad Shah, but to the people that would come to know and love him, he became Naaz (someone to be proud of). Though he recently superannuated from the department of school education, yet he was more than a teacher, a role model. Life, however, introduced Naaz to loss before he could fully understand its weight. He was only four years old when his father, Ghulam Udin Shah, passed away. The elder Shah had been a renowned Molvi, a man of profound humility whose intellectual roots stretched to Lahore and the prestigious Hakim Ajmal Khan Tibiya College in Amritsar. An authority on Arabic grammar, he left behind a legacy etched in the memory of the communitypeople still speak of his soulful Qirat, his vast knowledge, and the quiet dignity with which he carried himself. Though his father was gone, the fragrance of his scholarly humility remained in the very foundation of the home. Naazs journey into the world of letters began at the local Govt. Primary School, affectionately known in the neighbourhood as the Shabaan Sheikhun School, as it operated out of a rented building belonging to the late Shaban Sheikh. Literally, to look back at those days is to evoke a world of sensory nostalgia. Education then was a tactile, deliberate art. There was the traditional wooden slatethe Takhti or Mashaqqand the Naagri qalam, the traditional reed pen dipped carefully in soil ink. These simple instruments were the entire universe of learning for a young boy. Over the decades, Naaz would watch this universe shift, as the scratch of the reed on wood gave way to the smoothness of pen on paper, and eventually, to the silent tap of digital screens. Yet, the soul of his learning remained anchored in that early discipline. After the fifth grade, Naaz moved to the Govt. High School Dangiwacha (now Higher Sec. Institute), which stood as the solitary beacon of matriculate education in the entire Rafiabad region then. To this day, a wave of nostalgia sweeps over him when he recalls the schools old walls. They were adorned with the portraits of Ghalib, Iqbal, and Sir Syed Ahmad Khan. Prominent among them was a masterpiece depicting Maulana Rumi (RA) alongside Allama Iqbal (RA)a striking work of art created by the schools legendary art teacher, Hashmat Ullah Hashmi. For a young, impressionable mind, these walls did not just enclose a classroom; they opened a window into the infinite sky of literature and philosophy. Intellectual curiosity often catches fire through a spark lit by others. For Naaz, that spark was Dr. Rafiq Masoodi, who was then pursuing his Masters degree at JNU in Delhi. Fascinated by the worlds existing beyond his immediate horizon, a young Naaz secretly became a subscriber to two magazines that arrived via post for Dr Masoodi, viz. Soviet Land and Readers Digest. Reading them felt like a clandestine rebellion, a quiet gathering of perspectives from opposite ends of the globe. By the tenth grade, Naaz had begun to put pen to paper. His early writings were fragmented, the chaotic thoughts of youth searching for a voice. But by the eleventh grade, clarity struck. He penned his first formal Urdu article, which found its way into the pages of the prestigious Urdu daily, Aftab. The literary journey had nowbegun. It culminated years later, in 2004, with the publication of his booklet, Sada-i-Haq (The Voice of Truth). The work earned praise from seasoned literary figures, most notably Dr. Ghulam Qadir Lone, a man whose profound mentorship became a guiding light in Naazs life; in fact, he was the person who inspired him a lot. With the passage of time, the raw, fragmented prose of his youth gave way to the deep, resonant voice of a mature columnist. Naaz became a household name for readers of the Urdu daily Uqaab, where his regular column, Sunday Kay Sunday, featured every single Sunday without fail, serving as a weekly mirror to society and culture. Now, bridging his rich past with the present, his highly anticipated new book, Muhazrat-e-Hamidia, is poised for releasea testament to a lifetime spent in the devotion of the written word. Tragedy and Triumph in the Classroom Naaz completed his post-graduation in Economics in 1990, and for a time, life flowed with the gentle rhythm of a calm river. But 1996 arrived with a devastating fury. It was a year of profound grief that shook him to his core. First, he lost his beloved mother. Then, a mere forty days later, before the tears could even dry, his elder brotheronly in his fortiespassed away into the heavenly abode. Grief can silence a man, or it can deepen his empathy. Naaz chose the latter, channelling his emotions into a lifelong devotion to shaping human minds. Some individuals find their calling by chance, but Naaz was tailored by the Almighty specifically for the noble profession of teaching. His contributions to education could never be contained within the four walls of a classroom. Recognising his innate ability to connect with people, the department utilised his talents on a grander stage. As the Zonal Cultural Coordinator for Dangiwacha from 2003 to 2012, he breathed life into the regions youth, organising spirited debates, seminars, and cultural festivals. Later, as the District Cultural Coordinator, his canvas grew even larger. He became the pivotal force behind major literary events, as well as the architect of the official Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations at

RisingKashmir 29 May 2026 10:55 pm

Beyond Apples, Shopians Untapped Tourism Potential Awaits Attention

Raja Zaid Shopian, May 29: Famous across the country for its apple orchards, south Kashmirs Shopian district is now witnessing growing calls for the development of its largely untapped tourism sector, with residents and stakeholders urging the government to improve infrastructure and basic facilities at several scenic destinations. Despite possessing immense tourism potential, Shopian continues to lag behind prominent tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Dal Lake due to inadequate infrastructure and lack of sustained official attention. Among the major attractions in the district is Peer Ki Gali, situated along the historic Mughal Road at an altitude of around 3,490 metres. Known for its snow-covered mountains, cool climate and scenic beauty, the destination attracts visitors during summer and winter seasons. However, locals say the absence of proper accommodation, restaurants, road maintenance, mobile connectivity and snow-clearance facilities has limited its tourism growth. Residents said Peer Ki Gali receives nearly 10 to 15 feet of snowfall every winter, forcing the Mughal Road to remain closed for several months. They pointed out that unlike Gulmarg, which remains accessible due to better infrastructure and advanced snow-clearance systems, Peer Ki Gali continues to suffer from poor facilities. Another emerging destination is Dubjan, located around 20 kilometres from Shopian town. Surrounded by dense forests and snow-clad mountains, the area has recently gained attention for winter tourism. The district administration has organised winter carnivals there over the past two years to attract tourists. However, locals said the initiatives have failed to produce significant results due to the absence of basic tourism infrastructure such as hotels, transportation, restaurants, washrooms and tourist management systems. Residents and tourism stakeholders are hopeful that the proposed 9-kilometre tunnel project on the Mughal Road will improve year-round connectivity between the Pir Panjal region and Kashmir Valley, boosting tourism and economic activity in the district. Another scenic location, Shukroo, also remains largely unexplored despite its natural beauty and peaceful environment. Locals said the area continues to suffer from official neglect and lack of development. Tourism stakeholders have appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir government, particularly Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the tourism portfolio, to focus on infrastructure development in Shopian. Residents believe that improved roads, accommodation facilities, communication networks and government support can help Shopian emerge as a major tourist destination while generating employment opportunities for local youth and boosting the regions economy.

RisingKashmir 29 May 2026 10:52 pm

PCI Invites Claims for 15th Term Reconstitution

RK News Service Jammu, May 29: The Press Council of India has invited claims from eligible Associations of Persons and news agencies for the reconstitution of its 15th term under the provisions of the Press Council Act, 1978. The Press Council of India, a statutory quasi-judicial body constituted through an Act of Parliament, is mandated to preserve the freedom of the press and maintain standards of journalism in the country. According to an official statement, the 14th term of the Council concluded on October 5, 2024. Earlier, the Council had invited claims through an advertisement notice issued on June 9, 2024, under Sections 5(3)(a), (b) and (c) of the Press Council Act. However, no claims were received under Section 5(3)(c), which pertains to associations managing news agencies or news agencies themselves. Subsequently, the Chairperson of the Council, in terms of Section 5(4) of the Act read with the Press Council (Procedure for Notification of Associations of Persons) Rules, 2021, has once again invited claims from eligible associations and news agencies from across the country for notification in the Official Gazette. The Council said that claims in sealed envelopes must reach the Chairperson, Press Council of India, by June 19, 2026, before 5 pm. The advertisement regarding the same was published in newspapers across the country on May 17, 2026. The detailed advertisement is also available on the official Press Council of India website.

RisingKashmir 29 May 2026 10:51 pm

JPDCL Announces Scheduled Power Shutdowns Across Jammu, Kathua

SRINAGAR: The Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) has announced scheduled power shutdowns in several areas of Jammu and Kathua districts on May 30 and subsequent dates to facilitate maintenance and distribution works. According to the Chief Engineer (Distribution), JPDCL Jammu, power supply to Transport Nagar, Narwal, Railway Colony, Upper Chowadi, parts of Channi Himmat, []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 10:48 pm

Farooq Abdullah Calls for Moral Introspection, Seeks NEET Leak Probe

SRINAGAR: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Friday called for moral introspection and a renewed adherence to faith and values, while demanding a thorough investigation into the alleged NEET paper leak and reiterating that dialogue remains the only viable path to resolving longstanding issues. Speaking to reporters at Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar, Abdullah commented on []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 10:32 pm

Majority of Hajj Pilgrims Luggage to Arrive in Kashmir by Road

SRINAGAR: The arrival phase of Hajj flights for pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir will commence from June 2, 2026, with the first flight scheduled to land at Srinagar International Airport at 12:45 pm, according to a notification issued by the Jammu Kashmir Hajj Committee. The Hajj Committee said that due to a NOTAM and restrictions []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 9:59 pm

J&K: Northern Army Commander Reviews Anti-Infiltration Grid Along LoC

SRINAGAR, May 29: Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Friday reviewed the operational preparedness of the force and assessed the robustness of the anti-infiltration grid along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Kashmir Valley. Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, #ArmyCdrNC, visited units deployed along the #LineOfControl in Kupwara Sector to assess robustness of anti-infiltration grid and review #OperationalPreparedness, Armys Northern Command said in a post on X. The commander also witnessed a demonstration of innovations successfully implemented in [] The post J&K: Northern Army Commander Reviews Anti-Infiltration Grid Along LoC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 9:55 pm

Arrest Warrant Issued in Gurez Musk Deer Poaching Case, Hunt On for Others

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife Department has issued an arrest warrant against one identified hunter and launched a manhunt to trace others involved in the killing of an endangered male musk deer in the forests of Gurez in north Kashmirs Bandipora district. Wildlife officials said the animal was allegedly killed for extraction of its []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 9:43 pm

India Should Target To Build USD 120-USD 150 Billion Semiconductor Value Chain By 2035: NITI Aayog

NEW DELHI, May 29: India should target building a USD 120-150 billion semiconductor value chain by choosing leadership and purpose over participation by 2035, a NITI Aayog report said on Friday. The Centre should commit at least one-third of the required investment to de-risk projects and anchor long-term investor confidence, the report, Future of Indias Semiconductor Industry, suggested. Instead of chasing the global wafer race from behind, India should define its own pathway-one that is not only distinct but shaped [] The post India Should Target To Build USD 120-USD 150 Billion Semiconductor Value Chain By 2035: NITI Aayog appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 9:28 pm

Jammu Kashmir: Northern Railway to Add Extra Coaches to Two Trains Amid Passenger Rush

SRINAGAR: Northern Railways Jammu Division has announced the temporary augmentation of two key trains with additional coaches to manage the increased passenger rush during the summer holiday season. Officials said one additional Third AC coach will be attached to the Jammu TawiNew Delhi Rajdhani Express from June 6 to June 12. In a similar move, []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 9:00 pm

Wangchuk Questions Ladakh LGs Public Remarks After Cordially Held Meeting

SRINAGAR: Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Thursday expressed surprise over remarks made by Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena following a recent meeting between the two, saying the interaction had taken place in a cordial and constructive atmosphere. The clarification came two days after Saxena posted on X that he had cautioned Wangchuk against misleading and []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 8:31 pm

NEET-UG to shift to CBT mode from 2027: NTA to SC

It said all other major NTA examinations are already conducted in CBT mode

The Hindu Businessline 29 May 2026 8:30 pm

Govt Directs 85 JKPSC-Recruited Candidates to Submit Details Within Seven Days for Verification

SRINAGAR: The Government of Jammu and Kashmirs General Administration Department (Services), Civil Secretariat, Srinagar, has issued a directive asking 85 candidates recommended by the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) for appointment to the Junior Scale of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service, JK Police (Gazetted) Service and JK Accounts (Gazetted) Service to submit []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 7:58 pm

Trailer Vehicle Falls Into Deep Gorge Near Zojila, Driver And Conductor Safe

GANDERBAL, May 29: A major tragedy was narrowly avoided on Friday when a loaded trailer vehicle veered off the Srinagar-Kargil highway and fell into a deep gorge near Zojila in Central Kashmirs Ganderbal district. Officials said the accident occurred near Pani Matha on the Zojila axis when the 14-wheeler trailer, en route to Kargil, reportedly lost control and tumbled down the mountainside. The vehicle, registered as JK01BC-2359, suffered severe damage in the mishap. Despite the impact, both the driver and [] The post Trailer Vehicle Falls Into Deep Gorge Near Zojila, Driver And Conductor Safe appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 7:50 pm

Ladakh LG Revises DA For Employees Under 6th Pay Commn

LEH, May 29: The Finance Department of the Union Territory of Ladakh has revised the Dearness Allowance (DA) for employees drawing salary under the 6th Central Pay Commission, enhancing it from the existing 257 per cent of basic pay to 262 per cent. The hike has been approved by the Lieutenant Governor of the Ladakh, VK Saxena. The post Ladakh LG Revises DA For Employees Under 6th Pay Commn appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 7:39 pm

Putin Says Trade Liberalisation Talks Have Intensified Between India, Eurasian Economic Union

ASTANA, May 29: Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that negotiations on trade liberalisation between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and India have intensified, signalling fresh momentum in efforts to forge a free trade agreement between the two sides, according to a media report. Last year trade agreements were concluded with Mongolia and the United Arab Emirates, as well as with Indonesia, intensifying negotiations on trade liberalization with India, Putin was quoted as saying at the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council [] The post Putin Says Trade Liberalisation Talks Have Intensified Between India, Eurasian Economic Union appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 7:31 pm

Drug Peddler Arrested, Contraband Seized in Central Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Police in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district arrested a drug peddler and recovered a contraband substance during a checkpoint operation under the jurisdiction of Police Post Nagbal, officials said on Friday. According to police, personnel from Police Post Nagbal stopped a suspicious person at a checkpoint set up at Dignibal near the Old Water Supply []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 7:30 pm

Farooq Abdullah Demands Thorough Probe Into NEET Paper Leak, Strict Punishment For Culprits

SRINAGAR, May 29: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Friday demanded a full-fledged investigation into the alleged NEET paper leak and said the five states where the leak took place are governed by the BJP. Had there been no shortcomings, then would this have happened? Abdullah asked while talking to reporters here. He was responding to a question about the possible shortcomings in the system as Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has now sought the help of the Army and Indian [] The post Farooq Abdullah Demands Thorough Probe Into NEET Paper Leak, Strict Punishment For Culprits appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 7:19 pm

J&K: Massive Forest Fire In Poonch; Locals Help Bring Flames Under Control

JAMMU, May 29: A massive forest fire broke out in the upper reaches of Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir, but prompt action from the forest department, aided by residents, helped bring the fire under control, officials said on Friday. The blaze ignited along the Mughal Road, damaging forest areas and causing temporary panic among commuters as flames and thick smoke billowed close to this historic route connecting Poonch with Shopian district. Officials confirmed that the Mughal Road remains safe [] The post J&K: Massive Forest Fire In Poonch; Locals Help Bring Flames Under Control appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 7:11 pm

Iltija Mufti Criticises Proposal to Use IAF Aircraft for NEET-UG Paper Transport Amid Retest Preparations

SRINAGAR: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti on Friday criticised reports that the Centre is considering the use of Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft to transport NEET-UG question papers for the upcoming retest scheduled on June 21, calling it a reflection of incompetence and ineptitude. Now Air Force planes will transport the NEET papers. []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 7:00 pm

Govt Mulling Expansion Of BSFs Operational Mandate: Amit Shah

BHUJ, May 29: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that the government was considering expansion of the BSFs operational mandate by assigning it new sectors, and announced that a new paradigm of territorial security will be added to complement conventional border security. Addressing BSF personnel on a visit to Gujarats Kutch district to review border security, he also said the ongoing work to secure the vulnerable sections of the Harami Nala and Sir Creek areas along the border [] The post Govt Mulling Expansion Of BSFs Operational Mandate: Amit Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 5:57 pm

Rajnath Releases Volume On Op Sindoor With Accounts Of Officers, Aviators, Other Combatants

NEW DELHI, May 29: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday released a commemorative volume on Operation Sindoor, which documents the personal testimonies of 100 officers, sailors, and airmen who participated in the decisive military operation last year. Singh described the operation as an unprecedented success wherein India compelled Pakistan to seek a ceasefire within four days. It was different from all other wars that India has fought so far. The commemorative publication goes beyond historical account and captures the personal [] The post Rajnath Releases Volume On Op Sindoor With Accounts Of Officers, Aviators, Other Combatants appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 5:46 pm

Dr Jitendra Launches Indias First SkyCast Aircraft Fog System, Lauds Milestone In Aviation History

NEW DELHI, May 29 :Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today inaugurated Indias first SkyCast system at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, describing it a milestone and the beginning of a new era in the history of Indian aviation. The Minister informed that only 18 such advanced systems exist across the world so far and India has now become the [] The post Dr Jitendra Launches Indias First SkyCast Aircraft Fog System, Lauds Milestone In Aviation History appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 5:44 pm

PM Only Cares About Survival Of His Govt, Not Kids Future: Rahul

NEW DELHI, May 29: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Friday that Prime Minister Narendra Modis silence on the CBSE debacle and inaction against the education minister showed he cared only about the survival of his government and not the future of lakhs of students. In a post on X, Gandhi said he had been demanding an independent judicial probe from day one into the CBSEs on-screen marking and the award of the contract to COEMPT as the youth of [] The post PM Only Cares About Survival Of His Govt, Not Kids Future: Rahul appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 5:40 pm

Institutional deliveries up from 88.6% to 90.6% in 2023-24: NFHS-6

NEW DELHI, May 29: Institutional deliveries in India have increased from 88.6 per cent in 2019-2021 to 90.6 per cent in 2023-24, moving closer towards universal coverage, according to the National Family Health Survey-6 released on Friday. According to the NFHS-6 data for 2023-24, 95.9 per cent of pregnant women received antenatal care (ANC), while mothers receiving ANC in the first trimester increased from 70 per cent to 76.2 per cent. Mothers receiving at least four ANC visits also increased [] The post Institutional deliveries up from 88.6% to 90.6% in 2023-24: NFHS-6 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 5:39 pm

PM Modi himself monitoring NEET-UG paper leak issue: Centre informs Supreme Court

New Delhi [India], May 29 : The Supreme Court on Friday directed the Centre Ministry of Education, to file a separate affidavit detailing the devising of a mechanism by which the process of conducting and concluding NEET examinations would be institutionalised by the NTA on a year-to-year basis. A bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe said that the affidavit must explain how institutional memory and expertise would be developed within the National Testing Agency (NTA) through the deployment of specialised personnel and a broad-based composition of experts. The Court observed that the endeavour must be to ensure that the NTA possesses the necessary physical as well as intellectual wherewithal to prevent the recurrence of incidents such as the NEET examination controversies of 2024 and 2026. The affidavit has been directed to be filed within six weeks. During the hearing, the Court noted the response (affidavits) filed by the NTA and the Chairman of the High Powered Committee, Dr K Radhakrishnan. Notably, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, informed the Court that the Prime Minister himself is monitoring the issue. The bench, however, questioned how the alleged failure occurred despite regular monitoring and meetings by the High Powered Committee. Have you been having regular meetings? How did this failure occur despite all the monitoring? the Court asked. Dr K Radhakrishnan and counsels representing the NTA responded that the High Powered Committee had made around 60 recommendations, many of which had already been implemented. The Court was informed that certain procedural reforms are still pending and would be implemented before the rescheduled NEET-UG examination. Justice Narasimha, however, expressed concern over the effectiveness of the monitoring mechanism. Then there is something wrong with the original recommendations, or there has not been effective monitoring. How did this occur? the bench observed. The Court also raised concerns regarding accountability within the NTA system. Accountability has not been put in place. Accountability would be effective only when you identify on whose shoulders the responsibility lies, the bench observed. The Court further remarked that diffused obligation ultimately results in responsibility being shifted generally towards the government. Stressing the need for institutional reforms, the bench observed, Institutional reforms, not individuals. Irrespective of people coming or going, there must be something that evolves within the system. The Court also highlighted the emotional impact of repeated examination controversies on students and families. It is actually very traumatic. Not just for students but for families. There is an investment of years of study and emotions, the bench observed. The Court further remarked that India has created world-class institutions such as the UPSC and said similar institutional strength and credibility must be developed within the NTA. In its order, the Court recorded that pursuant to its earlier directions, the Director of the NTA has filed an affidavit indicating the manner in which the recommendations of the High Powered Committee were being implemented in relation to the conduct of NEET-UG 2026. The Court also noted that Dr K Radhakrishnan, who heads the steering committee, had filed a separate affidavit detailing the future course of action. The Court said it would continue monitoring the matter for some further time and listed the matter to be heard in the second week of July. (ANI)

RisingKashmir 29 May 2026 5:04 pm

Jammu Kashmir: MeT Predicts Rain, Gusty Winds at Scattered Places Till May 30

SRINAGAR: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast rain, thundershowers and gusty winds across Jammu and Kashmir over the next two days, with a possibility of thunderstorm and hailstorm activity at a few locations. According to the Meteorological Department, scattered to fairly widespread areas are likely to experience one or two spells of rain, thundershowers, hailstorms []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 5:00 pm

Swiss Ambassador To India Calls On J-K CM, Says Scope Of Collaboration Discussed

SRINAGAR, May 29: Swiss Ambassador to India Maya Tissafi on Friday called on Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah here and discussed issues of mutual interest and scope for collaboration. H.E. Mrs. Maya Tissafi, Ambassador of Switzerland to India, called on the chief minister today in Srinagar and discussed a range of issues of mutual interest, including sustainable tourism, horticulture and allied sectors, the CMs office said on X. The Swiss Ambassador had on Thursday called on J-K Lieutenant [] The post Swiss Ambassador To India Calls On J-K CM, Says Scope Of Collaboration Discussed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 4:35 pm

Rising prices may hit festive smartphone demand, dent annual sales by up to 30 pc: Report

NEW DELHI, May 29: More than half of intended smartphone buyers in India may defer their purchases or shift to the second-hand market during the festive half of the year (July to December) if prices continue to rise, potentially dragging down annual sales by up to 30 per cent, according to a study. A joint report by Trakin Tech and Techarc, released on Friday, revealed that 54 per cent of intended smartphone demand for the second half of the year [] The post Rising prices may hit festive smartphone demand, dent annual sales by up to 30 pc: Report appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 4:35 pm

Rupee rises 53 paise to close at 95.05 against US dollar

MUMBAI, May 29: The rupee appreciated 53 paise to close at 95.05 (provisional) against the US dollar in early trade on Friday, as renewed optimism over the peace deal between the US and Iran boosted market sentiments. Forex traders said the USD/INR pair appreciated on an overnight decline in crude oil prices and a fall in the US dollar, after the US and Iran reached an understanding to extend the ceasefire for another 60 days. On Thursday, the US and [] The post Rupee rises 53 paise to close at 95.05 against US dollar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 4:31 pm

CCI rejects complaint against Rapido; finds no abuse of dominance

NEW DELHI, May 29: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has dismissed a complaint against Roppen Transportation Services, the parent company of the mobility platform Rapido, finding that no prima facie case of abuse of a dominant position was established. The complainant alleged that Rapido was operating private vehicles for commercial purposes in Uttarakhand, charging fares below the state-regulated minimum standards and engaging in non-transparent pricing and tax practices. In its order passed on May 22, the fair trade regulator [] The post CCI rejects complaint against Rapido; finds no abuse of dominance appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 4:31 pm

Nadigam Railway Crossing in Budgam to Remain Closed for Four Days

SRINAGAR: The railway level crossing at Nadigam Halt in Budgam has been closed for vehicular traffic for four days due to track upgradation works, officials said. According to a public notice issued by Northern Railways, the crossing, located between Budgam and Mazhom, will remain closed for all vehicular traffic from today till Monday, June 01 []

KashmirLife 29 May 2026 4:30 pm

As Jio IPO timeline nears, Ambani weighs on broadening stakeholder participation

NEW DELHI, May 29: Reliance Industries Limited Chairman Mukesh D Ambani is evaluating pathways to broader stakeholder participation in Jio Platforms as the timeline set by him for the companys initial public offerings (IPO) nears. During the Annual General Meeting of RIL in August 2025, Ambani set the timeline of the first half of 2026 for listing Jio. Ambani, in RILs annual report published on Thursday, said the company is taking deliberate steps to strengthen Jios institutional framework, enhance transparency [] The post As Jio IPO timeline nears, Ambani weighs on broadening stakeholder participation appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 4:29 pm

Hormuz exposes Chinas Indian Ocean vulnerability, new report

SINGAPORE, May 29: Chinas maritime vulnerability begins at the Strait of Hormuz rather than the Strait of Malacca, creating a new arena of strategic competition in the Indian Ocean among Beijing, India, France and the US, according to a report by the London-based International Institute of Strategic Studies. Released ahead of the three-day Shangri-La Dialogue security summit that opened in Singapore on Friday, the report says the Indian Ocean Region is re-emerging as a key strategic theatre after decades of [] The post Hormuz exposes Chinas Indian Ocean vulnerability, new report appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 4:23 pm

HC asks review committee to examine unblocking of Cockroach Janta Partys X handle

NEW DELHI, May 29: The Delhi High Court on Friday refused to order unblocking of satirical digital outfit Cockroach Janta Partys X account but asked a review committee under the IT Rules to examine the issue and take a decision before July 7. Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav permitted Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke to appear virtually before the committee, and observed that if the panel is satisfied that the blocking must be set aside, it is legally empowered [] The post HC asks review committee to examine unblocking of Cockroach Janta Partys X handle appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 4:23 pm

500 million-year-old fossil helps fill strange gap in our record of life on Earth

ADELAIDE (Australia), May 29: Roughly 500 million years ago, a strange event in the evolution of life on Earth seems to have taken place. The known fossil record from this time, which falls within the Cambrian period, contains a missing chapter. Palaeontologists refer to it as the Furongian gap. And its striking because there is an explosion of bio-diversity within the fossil record both immediately before and after it. This decline has been considered evidence for a real biological crisis [] The post 500 million-year-old fossil helps fill strange gap in our record of life on Earth appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 4:22 pm

Netanyahu cites Indias crazy love for Israel amid global criticism

JERUSALEM, May 29: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described India as a huge power where there is an absolutely crazy love for Israel despite what he called efforts to delegitimise the Jewish state elsewhere. Speaking at a leadership programme in the Jordan Valley on Thursday, Netanyahu further cited India as a key example of Israels expanding international partnerships, as he discussed Israels international relationships and efforts to broaden its diplomatic partnerships. The remarks came amid a fragile geopolitical situation [] The post Netanyahu cites Indias crazy love for Israel amid global criticism appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 29 May 2026 4:21 pm