LG Clears 97 More Ponds To Boost Ladakh
Leh, Nov 15: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved the construction of 97 additional water bodies under Project Amrit Sarovar, taking the total number of ponds targeted for operationalisation across the Union Territory to 163 by January 2027. The initiative is aimed at strengthening water security, ensuring reliable irrigation, combating climate change and [] The post LG Clears 97 More Ponds To Boost Ladakhs Water Security appeared first on Northlines .
India Clinch U-19 Asia Cup With Last-Ball Thriller, Beat Pakistan By One Wicket
India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan by one wicket in a thrilling last-ball finish to clinch the Mens Under-19 Asia Cup title in Muscat, Oman, extending their record to nine titles. Chasing a challenging target of 338 runs, India pulled off a sensational victory, with lower-order batters Mohit Ulva and Manal Chauhan playing decisive roles in [] The post India Clinch U-19 Asia Cup With Last-Ball Thriller, Beat Pakistan By One Wicket appeared first on Northlines .
Srinagar, Nov 15: Gulmarg emerged as the coldest place in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday as the minimum temperature plunged to minus 2.5 degrees Celsius, signalling an intensification of cold conditions in the upper reaches of the Kashmir Valley. According to the Meteorological Department, the minimum temperature in Gulmarg was 1.9 degrees below normal, while [] The post Gulmarg Freezes At -2.5C, Coldest Place In J&K As Night Temp Dips Below Normal appeared first on Northlines .
President Murmu, PM Modi Pay Floral Tributes To Birsa Munda
New Delhi, Nov 15: President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday paid floral tributes to tribal icon Birsa Munda in the Parliament House complex on the occasion of his 151st birth anniversary. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also paid tributes at the statue of the tribal freedom fighter. [] The post President Murmu, PM Modi Pay Floral Tributes To Birsa Munda appeared first on Northlines .
Fire Damages Jamia Masjid in Baramulla, Four Sustain Burn Injuries; Shifted to Srinagar Hospital
Baramulla, Nov 15: A fire broke out at Jamia Masjid in the Hamray area of Pattan in north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Sunday morning, causing partial damage to the mosque and leaving four persons with burn injuries. Officials of the Fire and Emergency Services said that the Fire Control Room Sopore received the distress call at 08:40 AM, following which a fire tender from F&ES Sangrama was immediately mobilised at 08:41 AM. Considering the nature of the incident, a fire tender from F&ES Wanigam also rushed to the spot as reinforcement to assist in the firefighting operation. The officials said that the fire was subsequently brought under control by the Fire and Emergency Services personnel, preventing it from spreading further and causing additional damage to the structure. Meanwhile, as per the spot officer, four persons sustained minor burn injuries during the incident. The injured have been identified as Aijaz Ahmad, Showkat Ahmad Bhat, Altaf Pandit and Bilal Ahmad Pandit. All four injured persons were shifted to a hospital in Srinagar for medical treatment. Further details regarding the cause of the fire and the extent of damage are awaited.
Fire damages Jamia Masjid in Baramulla, injuries feared
Baramulla, Nov 15: A fire broke out at Jamia Masjid in Hamray area of Pattan in north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Sunday, causing partial damage to the mosque, with some local residents feared injured in the incident. An official said that the mosque suffered partial damage in the blaze, which was subsequently brought under control by fire and emergency services, preventing it from spreading further. He said some locals were injured in the incident and shifted to a hospital for treatment. Their identities and the exact number of injured are yet to be ascertained, while the cause of the fire is under investigation.(KNO)
Traffic Police Blacklist 60,000 Vehicles Having Five or More Pending Challans: DIG Haseeb-ur-Rehman
SRINAGAR: Deputy Inspector General of Traffic J&K Haseeb-ur-Rehman on Saturday said that Jammu Kashmir Traffic Police have blacklisted nearly 60,000 vehicles having five or more pending traffic challans, while smart cameras are increasingly detecting violations such as red-light jumping, riding without helmets and driving without seat belts. Talking to reporters, the DIG said the department []
Renowned Kashmir Geography Scholar Prof Tasawoor Ahmad Kanth Dies at 70
SRINAGAR: Renowned academician and Geography scholar Prof. Tasawoor Ahmad Kanth, popularly known as Prof. TA Kanth, passed away early Sunday morning at the age of 70 after battling cancer for the past few months. Prof. Kanth served as Professor, Dean and Head of the Department of Geography and Regional Development at the University of Kashmir, []
Congress Appoints Mutasif Hussain as General Secretary in Leh
SRINAGAR: The District Congress Committee (DCC), Leh, has appointed Mutasif Hussain as its General Secretary with immediate effect. According to an order issued by the DCC Leh President on November 14, the appointment has been made to strengthen the party organisation and ensure effective coordination of its activities in the district. Hussain has been asked []
From Kashmir to Pune, young warriors chase Taekwondo gold
Srinagar, Nov 14: From five-year-old beginners to young athletes with years of training behind them, a contingent of Jammu and Kashmir Taekwondo players has embarked on a journey to Pune with one common dreambringing home gold medals. The contingent was flagged off from the historic Balidaan Stambh at Lal Chowk on Saturday to participate in the International World Ranking G1 Taekwondo Championship 2026 in Pune. The ceremony witnessed participation of senior police and administrative officials, including DIG Traffic Kashmir Haseeb-ur-Rehman and SSP Traffic Srinagar Bisma Qazi. Sports enthusiasts, supporters and well-wishers also gathered to encourage the young athletes before their departure. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, DIG Traffic said that it was indeed a proud moment that a young team including five-year-old talented kids are leaving for Pune to take part in the International Taekwondo Championship. We are hopeful these children will bring laurels for J&K and the country, he said. Coach Mansha Bashir expressed confidence in the team's preparations, saying the athletes had undergone rigorous training and were determined to make J&K proud. We are hopeful that Kashmir will bring gold this time. The players have worked extremely hard and undergone rigorous training for this championship. They are well-prepared and highly motivated to give their best, she said. Highlighting the age diversity of the contingent, Mansha said some of the participants were as young as five, seven, eight and 12 years, reflecting the growing interest in Taekwondo among children in Kashmir. It is encouraging to see such young children taking up the sport with dedication. Despite their young age, they have shown tremendous discipline, enthusiasm and commitment during training. We want them to compete fearlessly, gain international exposure and make the country and Jammu and Kashmir proud, she said. The coach said the championship would provide the young players with an important platform to test their skills, gain experience and compete against athletes from different backgrounds. The dignitaries present at the flag-off ceremony appreciated the players for their discipline and dedication, urging them to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and bring laurels to the Union Territory. The team's travel has been sponsored by Applied Information, Inc., through its Glance Smart City Supervisory System, a cloud-based platform designed to manage and monitor intelligent transportation systems and traffic operations. The support reflects the importance of corporate partnerships in promoting sporting talent and helping young athletes access competitive platforms. For the youngest members of the contingent, the Pune championship represents an important milestone in their sporting journey. For their coach and supporters, the expectations are even higher. As the team heads to Pune, Kashmir will be hoping that the hard work, discipline and determination of its young Taekwondo warriors translate into a golden performance.
Srinagar, Nov 14: The Department of Endocrinology, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, in collaboration with Super Speciality Hospital (SSH), on Saturday observed World Diabetes Day through a series of awareness, screening and community outreach programmes under the global theme Early Action on Diabetes. The programme was held under the guidance of Principal/Dean, GMC Srinagar, Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan. Addressing the gathering, Prof. (Dr.) Iffat described diabetes as one of the fastest-growing public health challenges and stressed that prevention through healthy lifestyle choices remains the most effective strategy. She said the theme underscores the importance of early diagnosis, regular screening and timely treatment to prevent complications. She urged people to adopt healthy eating habits, maintain an ideal body weight, avoid tobacco and engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily to reduce the risk of diabetes and its cardiovascular, kidney and eye-related complications. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Hayat Bhat, Head, Department of Endocrinology, advised that every adult should undergo blood sugar screening at least once, while individuals with risk factors such as family history, obesity, hypertension, sedentary lifestyle or gestational diabetes should be screened regularly. He emphasized that uncontrolled diabetes can silently damage the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves, making early detection, strict glycaemic control, balanced nutrition, regular exercise and adherence to treatment essential. Masarat Hashim, Administrator, Associated Hospitals, GMC Srinagar, appreciated the efforts of the Department of Endocrinology in organising the awareness programme. Dr. Shahnaz, Associate Professor, Department of Endocrinology, highlighted the importance of public awareness and community participation in diabetes prevention and self-management. She appreciated the enthusiastic participation of students, healthcare workers and members of the general public in the Diabetes Run. The highlight of the celebrations was the 3rd Edition of the Diabetes Run, flagged off from Nishat Garden Gate to Duck Park and back, with over 300 participants, including faculty members, doctors, nursing staff, postgraduate residents, interns, MBBS students and members of the general public. Winners in the men's and women's categories were felicitated. A special interactive session for children living with Type 1 Diabetes was also organised to provide education, counselling and support for children and their parents. A Free Diabetes Screening and Patient Education Camp was conducted at the lawns of Super Speciality Hospital, where more than 500 patients underwent screening.
IUST to host conference on emerging technologies for governance, dev planning
Awantipora, Nov 14: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) is organising a two-day National Conference on Emerging Technologies for Governance and Development Planning in Jammu and Kashmir: Policy and Implementation at IUST Main Campus on November 17-18. The conference is being organised by the Centre for Good Governance and Policy Analysis (CGG&PA), IUST, in collaboration with the Centre for Good Governance (CGG), Hyderabad, and the Information Technology Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. The conference aims to deliberate on the transformative potential of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Geospatial Technologies, Data Analytics and Integrated Digital Systems, in strengthening governance, improving public service delivery and facilitating evidence-based development planning in Jammu and Kashmir. The main objective of this conference is to demonstrate the applications of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Geospatial Technology, Internet of things (IoTs) and so on in day-to-day governance. At national and international levels, there has been tremendous advancement in the use and applications of emerging technologies in good governance delivery, said Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST. Director, CGC&PA, IUST, Dr. G. N. Itoo, said, this is the first-ever conference of its kind and scale being organised to deliberate on this critical subject. It will bring together senior-level functionaries, policy makers and researchers from across the country, along with retired senior officers of J&K, to discuss key challenges, explore practical solutions and chart a way forward for strengthening governance and improving planning in J&K. Drawing on the insights and recommendations emerging from the deliberations, the conference aims to develop a comprehensive working paper that will be shared with the government for consideration and further action, he added. The event seeks to explore how technology-enabled solutions can help identify service gaps, improve resource allocation, strengthen institutional coordination and connect grassroots priorities with broader development strategies. It will also examine the policy and institutional frameworks required to ensure that technological interventions translate into measurable public value. The conference will focus on key themes, including accountability and transparency in good governance, performance-based governance and institutional transformation, institutional capacity building, reimagining governance in Jammu and Kashmir, mapping development opportunities through village-level planning, spatial data infrastructure for governance and the One University One Data initiative, with particular emphasis on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) in universities. The conference will also examine the role of digital platforms in enhancing citizen participation, grievance redressal and administrative responsiveness. Discussions will address the responsible use of AI and automation, data protection, cybersecurity, institutional accountability and the need for human oversight in technology-driven decision-making. A conference policy brief consolidating key recommendations and implementation strategies will also be prepared by CGG&PA, IUST, for consideration by relevant departments and collaborating institutions. The conference has been sponsored by the Information Technology Department, Government of J&K, and Jammu and Kashmir Bank Ltd, and Renewable Energy Pvt. Ltd, while reputed newspaper, Daily Excelsior, serves as media partner for the conference.
Dr Afaq conferred ICH fellowship at HEMATOCON 2026
Srinagar/Ahmedabad, Nov 14: Bringing laurels to Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Dr. Afaq Ahmad Khan, Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, has been formally conferred the prestigious Fellowship of the Indian College of Hematology (FICH) in recognition of his significant academic and professional contributions to the field of Hematology and nearly two decades of dedicated service in the specialty. The fellowship was formally awarded during HEMATOCON 2026, the Annual National Hematology Conference being held in Ahmedabad from November 12 to 15, 2026, and was presented by the President of the Indian Society of Hematology and Blood Transfusion (ISHBT). The distinction recognises Dr. Aafaq 's sustained contributions to clinical hematology, patient care, medical education and research. At SKIMS, Dr. Afaq has been actively involved in the management of complex hematological disorders and the delivery of specialised hematology services, including Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Congratulating Dr. Afaq Ahmad Khan on this prestigious achievement, Director SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, said that the fellowship was not only a recognition of the faculty member's professional accomplishments but also an acknowledgement of the Institute's sustained commitment to excellence in clinical care, academics and research. It gives me immense pleasure to see SKIMS being recognised at national and international platforms for its best clinical practices, academic contributions and research initiatives. Such achievements reflect the collective efforts, dedication and professional commitment of our faculty, Prof. Ashraf said. Director SKIMS congratulated and appreciated his valuable contributions to the field of Hematology. Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Afaq acknowledged the support and encouragement of the Institute's leadership, his mentors, colleagues and departmental team, crediting their collective contribution to his professional journey.
Shahre Khass traders demand crackdown on illegal meat trade
Srinagar, Nov 14: The Shahre Khass Traders, Manufacturers Coordination Committee and Federation on Saturday condemned the alleged illegal transportation and sale of rotten and unhygienic meat in Kashmir, demanding an immediate crackdown on those involved in the trade. Reacting to the seizure of approximately 1,600 kg of rotten meat at Budgam Railway Station, the traders' body termed the incident a matter of serious concern, raising questions about public health and food safety. Imtiyaz Ahmad Malik, President, Shahre Khass Traders, Manufacturers Coordination Committee and Federation expressed alarm over reports that meat was being transported from outside Kashmir without proper quality checks, creating serious concerns among consumers about the quality, freshness and safety of meat being sold in local markets. The organisation demanded a thorough investigation into the source, transportation, storage and intended distribution of the seized meat and called for strict legal action against all those involved, including suppliers, transporters and distributors. It also sought regular inspections of meat markets, storage facilities and transportation channels across Kashmir, along with proper verification of the quality and safety of meat supplied to consumers. The Federation further called for accountability and transparency on the part of the concerned Food Safety and enforcement authorities. It urged the administration to ascertain whether similar consignments had already entered local markets and whether any portion of the seized or illegally transported meat had reached consumers. Public health cannot be compromised for commercial profit. Those playing with the health and lives of innocent people must face strict legal consequences, the Federation said. It maintained that ensuring food safety and protecting consumers must remain a priority, urging the authorities to take immediate action to prevent the issue from developing into a larger public health crisis.
DC Pulwama flags off waste collection vehicles
Pulwama, Nov 14: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama, K.K. Sidha, on Saturday flagged off 11 dedicated waste collection vehicles for door-to-door solid waste collection and management services across all 11 blocks of the district, marking a significant step towards strengthening sanitation infrastructure and ensuring scientific waste management at the grassroots level. The flag-off ceremony was attended by ADDC Pulwama, Gulzar Ahmad Bhat; ACD Pulwama; ACP Pulwama; BDOs and other concerned officials of the Rural Development Department. The initiative, being implemented by the Rural Development Department (RDD), aims to streamline door-to-door waste collection, promote segregation of waste at source and ensure its proper disposal through an organised collection and management mechanism across rural areas of the district. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the importance of responsible waste management practices, particularly segregation of recyclable and non-recyclable waste at source. He urged people to refrain from dumping garbage in water bodies, near religious places or other public spaces, emphasising that such practices adversely affect the environment and public health. He called upon the public to make proper use of the newly flagged-off vehicles and extend cooperation to the concerned field functionaries for effective implementation of the initiative. The DC emphasised that maintaining cleanliness and ensuring scientific waste disposal is a collective responsibility, requiring active participation from every household and community.
Div Com Kashmir directs DCs to achieve Agristack, SVAMITVA targets
Srinagar, Nov 14: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Saturday chaired an extensive review meeting to assess the progress of various revenue-related initiatives, public service delivery, rehabilitation measures and key infrastructure projects across the Kashmir Division. The meeting reviewed implementation and progress of AgriStack, SVAMITVA, Property Card Distribution, Jan Sugam, Revenue Plus, RCCMS and JK SAMADHAN, besides CCTV coverage of migrant labourer clusters, the status of transit accommodations for PM Package employees, SRO-43 cases of terror victims, filling of vacant posts of Lumberdars and Chowkidars, constitution of District-level Media Cells, pending honorarium of Lumberdars and Chowkidars, transfer and disposal of mutation appeals by SDMs, removal of bottlenecks in various phases of Srinagar Ring Road, SBU and RKCTC projects, and disposal of pending public grievances. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners of various districts, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner, Additional Commissioners and Assistant Commissioner Central, OSD to the Divisional Commissioner and Deputy Director Planning, among other officers. While reviewing the progress of AgriStack, the Divisional Commissioner directed all Deputy Commissioners to ensure achievement of prescribed daily targets and bridge the existing gap through optimal utilisation of available manpower. He instructed that officers remain stationed in their respective areas and utilise holidays to maintain the pace of work and achieve the targets within the stipulated timelines. He also directed the Deputy Commissioners to compile and submit a list of villages situated on State land where generation of Farmer IDs is not feasible. Reviewing the progress under SVAMITVA, the Divisional Commissioner stressed the need to reconcile the gap between surveys received and returned under Map-1 and Map-2. He specifically directed the Deputy Commissioners of Anantnag, Baramulla and Budgam to expedite the process and ensure timely completion of pending work. The Divisional Commissioner also reviewed the status of issuance of various certificates under Jan Sugam, including Income Certificates, Legal Heir Certificates, RBA/OBC/ST/SC Certificates, Unemployment Certificates, Agriculture Certificates and Property Certificates. He further assessed the progress of Revenue Plus services, including issuance of Fards, attestation of mutations, Change of Land Use (CLU) permissions, extracts of Girdawari and Jamabandi, and copies of mutation records. Taking note of the disposal of mutation appeals following the delegation of powers to Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), he directed Deputy Commissioners to assess the improvement in disposal rates and ensure expeditious resolution of pending cases. Reviewing public grievances, the Divisional Commissioner instructed all Deputy Commissioners to ensure that grievances are disposed of within 15 days, with particular emphasis on timely and effective redressal. Also, Divisional Commissioner directed Deputy Commissioners to ensure installation and proper functioning of CCTV cameras in migrant labourer clusters across their respective districts to strengthen security and monitoring arrangements. He also stressed the need to clear all pending SRO-43 cases pertaining to terror victims and directed the concerned authorities to complete the process and furnish certification confirming that no cases remain pending. Regarding vacant posts of Lumberdars and Chowkidars in various areas, he directed the Deputy Commissioners to make temporary arrangements for filling up the vacancies and project the pending honorarium requirements to the concerned department for necessary action. Meanwhile, the Divisional Commissioner undertook a detailed review of civil and security arrangements at Migrant Transit Accommodations, with particular emphasis on ensuring adequate basic amenities and a safe, comfortable living environment for the inhabitants. He directed the concerned Deputy Commissioners to ensure uninterrupted electricity and drinking water supply, adequate local transport facilities, proper sanitation, functional lifts and timely snow clearance, particularly at transit accommodations in Srinagar, Budgam and Kupwara. He stressed that all essential facilities must remain operational and that any shortcomings affecting the residents should be addressed promptly. Reviewing the progress of infrastructure projects, the Divisional Commissioner directed the Deputy Commissioner Budgam to ensure that the December 31 deadline for the Galandar-Narbal stretch of the Srinagar Ring Road is adhered to without any delay. Similarly, the Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal was directed to resolve bottlenecks affecting Srinagar Ring Road Phase-II and Phase-IIA to facilitate timely progress of the project. The Divisional Commissioner also stressed the need for expeditious resolution of pending issues concerning other major projects, including SBU and RKCTC. He further urged all Deputy Commissioners to operationalise District-level Social Media Cells in their respective districts to strengthen public outreach, ensure effective dissemination of information, facilitate timely communication with the public and monitoring. The Divisional Commissioner reiterated the importance of close monitoring, inter-departmental coordination and accountability, directing all officers to maintain the pace of implementation and ensure time-bound achievement of assigned targets.
Two-Way Traffic Allowed on Jammu-Srinagar Highway Today
SRINAGAR: The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) will remain open for two-way traffic on November 15, subject to favourable weather and improved road conditions, with passenger vehicles, private cars and goods carriers permitted to travel in both directions, the Traffic Police said in its advisory. The announcement comes after the highway remained blocked for four hours []
Jammu, Nov 14:Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Saturday said that India was witnessing a historic period of transformation and emerging as one of the worlds largest and fastest-growing major economies with the national resolve of building a developed India by 2047. In his address at the convocation of Cluster University (CU) of Jammu, LG Sinha said the graduating students of this maiden convocation were the pioneering torchbearers of the universitys tradition, and congratulated all graduates, gold medallists and their parents. He highlighted the country's digital public infrastructure, unprecedented growth in the space sector, research and innovation and rising investment in quantum technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, green energy and biotechnology. Building a developed India by 2047 is our national resolve. By then, many of you will be at the highest peaks of your careers. Therefore, a developed India is not a slogan for another generation; it will be the essence of your lifes achievements. It will be a symbol of the success of your tenure, and it will be the greatest pursuit and accomplishment of your lives, he said. The Lieutenant Governor said India now has nearly 223,000 startups and 135 unicorns, and that many founders come from small towns, reflecting a genuine democratisation of opportunity and entrepreneurship. Offering a fresh perspective on the demographic dividend, Lieutenant Governor said he preferred to call it a demographic responsibility. Society would benefit when youth connect farmers to markets, womens self-help groups become employment-generating enterprises, and engineers develop affordable medical tools for remote areas, he said. Governor of Tamil Nadu, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar also graced the occasion. The Lieutenant Governor specially complimented the women students, saying that 130 of the 163 gold medals were bagged by the daughters. He said that when given opportunities, daughters do not merely attain positions but redefine the meaning of achievement. He said their gold medals are badges of confidence for generations to come. Daughters across higher-education institutions in Jammu Kashmir are writing new chapters of success in their own names, the Lieutenant Governor said. He highlighted the intellectual heritage of Jammu Kashmir and noted that Maharishi Kalhana, author of the Rajatarangini, Maharishi Abhinavagupta, and the saint-poets Yogini Lalleshwari and Sheikh-ul-Alam, promoted harmony among faiths and the pursuit of truth. He said the graduates were carrying forward a tradition of knowledge more than a thousand years old. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the significance of humanities. Technology tells us what we can do, while the humanities teach us what we should do. The nation needs engineers as well as historians, and scientists as well as musicians. If we wish to strengthen the intellectual wealth and capability of society, we need scientists as well as musicians. For this, young generation must be prepared to struggle with unwavering courage. Turn crises into opportunities. This is what great personalities did, and the world remembers them today. I believe that talent has no fixed address, and greatness does not arrive after checking postal addresses of certain individual. Greatness seeks courage and struggle, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also offered three practical suggestions for internships. First, present a well-studied solution to a companys challenge rather than simply seeking an opportunity, strive to be so valuable that the team feels ones absence, and choose internships that teach something new, he added On artificial intelligence, he said the relationship between AI and humans would be one of partnership, not competition. He further said that AI will change the way we work, but determining the purpose of work will remain a human responsibility. AI can provide new answers based on old knowledge, but the courage to discover new questions will remain with human beings. AI will have speed and data, but humans will provide direction, compassion and the courage to ask new questions. AI should be guided by civilisational norms, values and accountability, and that its development should rest on human welfare, not just profit and productivity, he said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also gave five resolutions to the students. First, never stop learning, create opportunities rather than only seek them, uphold honesty and ethics, support those who follow, and express love for the nation through action, he said. Your degree is not the end of your journey; it is a step to begin a new one. I believe that todays skills may become irrelevant ten years from now, but the habit of continuous learning will never become irrelevant. Therefore, make the pursuit of knowledge a permanent part of your nature, he added. He said that knowledge without character was meaningless and advised students not to merely aim to be a topper but become individuals who have the courage to speak the truth, the resolve to do what is right, and who treat every human being with dignity and respect. The future awaits you. Move forward with courage. Give compassion and sensitivity a place in your heart. Take the light of knowledge into your hands and begin a new journey of life. I reiterate that technology will expand in the future, but the responsibility to give that future a new meaning will belong to human intelligence, to all youth, the Lieutenant Governor said. Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu, Prof. K. S. Chandrasekar presented the University report on the occasion Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; Minister for School Education, Higher Education and Jal Shakti Shamim Firdous, Registrar Cluster University of Jammu Ankur Mahajan, HoDs, faculty members, students and their parents attended the convocation ceremony. Member of Parliament, Jugal Kishore Sharma, Member of Legislative Assembly from Jammu West Arvind Gupta, Heads of various Educational Institutions, prominent citizens and senior officials of Civil and Police administration were also present.
DC Pulwama flags off waste collection vehicles for door-to-door solid waste management
Pulwama, Nov 14:Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama K.K. Sidha today flagged off 11 dedicated waste collection vehicles for door-to-door solid waste collection and management services across all 11 blocks of the district, marking a significant step towards strengthening sanitation infrastructure and ensuring scientific waste management at the grassroots level. The flag-off ceremony was attended by ADDC Pulwama Gulzar Ahmad Bhat; ACD Pulwama; ACP Pulwama; BDOs and other concerned officials of the Rural Development Department. The initiative, being implemented by the Rural Development Department (RDD), aims to streamline door-to-door waste collection, promote segregation of waste at source and ensure its proper disposal through an organised collection and management mechanism across rural areas of the district. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the importance of responsible waste management practices, particularly segregation of recyclable and non-recyclable waste at source. He urged people to refrain from dumping garbage in water bodies, near religious places or other public spaces, emphasising that such practices adversely affect the environment and public health. He called upon the public to make proper use of the newly flagged-off vehicles and extend cooperation to the concerned field functionaries for effective implementation of the initiative. The DC emphasised that maintaining cleanliness and ensuring scientific waste disposal is a collective responsibility, requiring active participation from every household and community.
Sowing begins at Asia's largest tulip garden
Two million blooms expected Local harvest doubles to 5.75 lakh 8.5 lakh from Netherlands 1.4 million full-sized Srinagar, Nov 14: Sowing operations have officially commenced at Asia's largest tulip garden in Srinagar, with authorities preparing for a grander and denser floral showcase next spring featuring over two million tulips. Garden authorities confirmed that plantation activities began in early November and will run through mid-December. The garden is currently utilising an abundant harvest of homegrown bulbs alongside fresh consignments en route from the Netherlands. Speaking on the preparations, Imran Ahmed, in-charge of the Tulip Garden, said the local harvest yielded remarkable results this season, with production nearly doubling from roughly 3.07 lakh bulbs last year to approximately 5.75 lakh. Right now, we are planting our own harvested stock from last year, Ahmed said. Two fresh consignments from Holland are also arriving separately one expected within the week by air and another via sea route towards the end of November. Between the imported shipment of 8.5 lakh bulbs and local yields, the garden will plant nearly 1.4 million full-sized bulbs, up from 1.1 million last year. Factoring in smaller bulblets, the total tulip count will cross the two-million mark, representing an increase of 2 lakh to 3 lakh blooms over the previous season. An additional 1 lakh companion flowers, including muscari, daffodils and hyacinths, along with 17 to 18 hybrid annual varieties nurtured in polyhouses, will complement the display. To house the surplus stock and enhance visual appeal, garden managers are significantly raising crop density across flower beds. Standard beds previously accommodating 4,000 bulbs now hold 5,000, while smaller plots have seen plantings rise from 1,200 to 1,800 bulbs. Officials noted that the closer canopy will not only create a more vibrant visual spread but also naturally suppress weed growth. The department is also expanding the garden's cultivated land area. While keeping essential lawn corridors open for crowd movement, staff are introducing new wave patterns and converting underutilised green patches into active flower beds. The Tulip Garden marks the traditional opening of Kashmir's spring tourism calendar. Despite various challenges, the 2026 tulip festival drew roughly 4 lakh visitors, and authorities expect next year's expanded showcase to draw even larger crowds across the Union Territory. Plantation and bed preparation work are scheduled to conclude by December 15.
Class 4 student dies in Kupwara school wall collapse
Kupwara, Nov 14: A Class 4 student died after a boundary wall of Government Boys Middle School Janbazpora, Drugmulla, collapsed on her during the lunch break in north Kashmir's Kupwara district on Saturday, triggering serious concerns over the safety of school infrastructure and prompting the district administration to order an inquiry. According to reports, the girl stepped out during the lunch break and came under the collapsing boundary wall. She sustained critical injuries and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared her dead. Tehsildar Drugmulla, Syed Basharat, identified the deceased as Gazia Parvez, daughter of Parvez Ahmad Najar. The tragic incident has left residents in deep shock, with demands for a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the collapse. Locals alleged that the boundary wall had been constructed recently and questioned the quality of the construction work, demanding an in-depth probe to ascertain how a recently built wall collapsed and whether proper construction standards were followed. They also expressed concern over the condition of the school's washrooms and other buildings, alleging that the overall infrastructure required immediate attention. The bricks are getting separated, and it appears as if proper cement has not been used. The entire school infrastructure needs attention. Why did the concerned departments remain unmoved until such a tragic incident occurred? locals questioned. They also demanded that the role of the concerned authorities and school management be examined, including whether the alleged poor condition of the infrastructure had been brought to the notice of higher authorities. Meanwhile, the incident has brought renewed attention to the safety of educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. The government recently informed the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly that 765 school buildings across the Union Territory have been identified as unsafe and are not being used for teaching purposes. According to the government, the School Education Department conducts annual safety audits of school buildings under the National School Safety Programme. Residents are questioning why this boundary wall was excluded if such maintenance is carried out regularly. The District Administration Kupwara, in a statement, expressed profound grief over the tragic death. Taking immediate cognizance of the incident, a four-member Enquiry Committee headed by the Assistant Commissioner (Revenue), Kupwara, has been constituted to investigate the lapses, fix responsibility and submit a factual report within seven days positively. Simultaneously, a formal show cause notice has been served upon the Chief Education Officer, Kupwara, directing a written explanation within two working days regarding non-compliance with the Deputy Commissioner's earlier directions on mandatory school safety audits. The District Administration reiterated that the safety of children is non-negotiable and no negligence will be tolerated, adding that strict action as per law will follow against those found responsible.
Doda rumbles thrice in five hours, four quakes jolt J&K
Three shallow tremors trace 11.5-km corridor; strongest 3.8 magnitude Experts seek closer seismic monitoring, caution against major quake speculation Srinagar, Nov 14: The Chenab Valley experienced a spell of seismic activity on Saturday, with four earthquakes striking Jammu & Kashmir within nearly 11 hours, including three successive tremors in Doda district that have drawn attention to an unusual spatial pattern. The three earthquakes in Doda, measuring 2.7, 3.8 and 2.9 magnitude, occurred within four hours and 38 minutes, with their epicentres appearing to form an almost straight east-west alignment across an approximately 11.5-kilometre corridor. Independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif, who analysed the earthquake data, described the alignment as an interesting feature of Saturday's seismic sequence. According to the data shared by Arif, the first earthquake struck Kishtwar at 2:38 am, measuring 3.3 magnitude at a depth of 15 kilometres. Doda subsequently recorded a 2.7-magnitude tremor at 8:31 am, followed by a stronger 3.8-magnitude earthquake at 8:48 am. Both were shallow, originating at depths of 10 and five kilometres, respectively, Arif said. Another earthquake measuring 2.9 magnitude struck Doda at 1:09 pm at a depth of 10 kilometres. He added, The three epicentres appear to be aligned almost in a straight east-west line, spanning approximately 11.5 kilometres. All three earthquakes occurred within a short period, and their reported focal depths range between five and 10 kilometres. The forecaster said the strongest earthquake in the sequence, measuring 3.8 magnitude, originated at a depth of just five kilometres. The spatial concentration of the three Doda earthquakes is particularly noteworthy given the tectonically complex nature of the Doda-Kishtwar region, which has experienced moderate earthquakes in the past. However, Arif cautioned that the apparent alignment of the epicentres should not be interpreted as a warning of an impending major earthquake. The near-linear alignment of these three epicentres, by itself, does not indicate the possibility of a larger earthquake. Nevertheless, the spatial distribution makes the latest seismic activity an interesting subject for further seismological observation, he said. The region has a history of significant seismic events, including the magnitude 5.7 Kishtwar earthquake in 2013 and the magnitude 5.4 Doda earthquake in 2023. Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, an eminent Earth scientist, said: The latest sequence highlights the importance of sustained earthquake monitoring, particularly in mountainous areas where vulnerable buildings, steep slopes and difficult road connectivity can increase the impact of seismic disasters. Climate expert Dr Touseef Ahmad Bhat said earthquake activity must be understood separately from climate-related changes, as seismic events originate from geological and tectonic processes. The importance of scientific awareness, disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure in a vulnerable Himalayan region is the need of the hour, he said. Experts have repeatedly stressed the need for earthquake-resistant construction, structural safety audits, public awareness campaigns and effective emergency response mechanisms in Jammu and Kashmir. While a series of minor earthquakes does not necessarily signal a larger event, the latest activity in Doda and Kishtwar reinforces the need for continuous scientific observation. For the Chenab Valley, the message is clearseismic preparedness and safer construction must remain priorities, rather than waiting for a major earthquake to expose existing vulnerabilities.
Become value creators, not just job seekers: CM Omar
Jammu, Nov 14: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday told graduating students that sustainable prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir will come only when the youth move beyond being exclusively job seekers and become value creators, innovators and entrepreneurs. Addressing the first-ever convocation of Cluster University of Jammu at Abhinav Theatre, the Chief Minister said rapid technological changes, particularly the emergence of artificial intelligence, had transformed the employment landscape, making continuous learning, critical thinking, judgement and empathy increasingly important. He urged young graduates to look beyond conventional career paths and explore entrepreneurship and emerging economic opportunities, observing that government employment alone could not absorb every graduate. Sustainable prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir will come when our youth move beyond being exclusively job seekers and become value creators, innovators and entrepreneurs, he said. Identifying agribusiness and food processing, sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, renewable energy, disaster resilience and the digital economy as sectors with significant potential, he called upon graduates to leverage their academic knowledge to develop enterprises and generate employment. Abdullah said that Jammu and Kashmir's agricultural produce, including basmati rice, Bhaderwah rajmash, saffron, walnuts, kaladi and citrus fruits, offered considerable scope for value addition, branding and access to wider markets, and said graduates could explore opportunities in heritage tourism, eco-tourism, digital media, renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure and technology-enabled services. He said his government was determined to support young entrepreneurs by strengthening the start-up ecosystem, simplifying clearances and improving access to credit. Describing Cluster University of Jammu as a bold educational experiment conceived to bring together the region's strongest academic traditions and modernise higher education, the CM said the institution was conceived as a collegiate federation bringing together five established institutions GGM Science College, MAM College, SPMR College of Commerce, Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, and Government College of Education. He said pooling academic resources, faculty, libraries and laboratories while encouraging multidisciplinary learning had helped create a collaborative model of higher education, and referred to the University's placement in the 151-200 band of the National Institutional Ranking Framework as an encouraging achievement. The Chief Minister, however, stressed the need for sustained investment in common infrastructure, digital connectivity, modern laboratories and hostel facilities, particularly for students from far-flung areas such as Poonch, Rajouri, Doda and Kishtwar. He also emphasised the importance of timely academic calendars and examination cycles, asserting that no student should lose an academic year waiting for examinations or the award of a degree. My government is committed to providing our universities with the necessary institutional support, academic autonomy, faculty strength and infrastructure to enable them to become genuine centres of knowledge, innovation and regional problem-solving, he said. Congratulating the graduating students and gold medallists, the CM described them as pioneers whose achievements would lay the foundation for future generations, and acknowledged the contribution and sacrifices of parents, families and teachers in shaping their academic journeys. Emphasising the importance of character and social responsibility, CM Abdullah urged graduates to remain lifelong learners, respect the dignity of labour, uphold integrity, stay connected with their communities and prioritise their mental and physical well-being, and called upon them to carry Jammu and Kashmir's pluralistic cultural ethos and heritage wherever their professional journeys took them. Governor of Tamil Nadu Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar attended the convocation as the Chief Guest, while Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also Chancellor of the University, presided over the occasion. Minister for Higher Education Shamim Firdous; Member of Parliament, Jammu, Jugal Kishore Sharma; MLA Jammu West Arvind Gupta; and Vice-Chancellor Cluster University Jammu, Professor K.S. Chandrasekhar were also present. Later, the Chief Minister, along with other dignitaries, presented medals and certificates to the graduating students.
Turn crises into opportunities, LG Sinha tells graduates
Jammu, Nov 14: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday told graduating students to turn crises into opportunities and to move forward with courage, saying talent has no fixed address and greatness does not arrive after checking the postal addresses of certain individuals. Turn crises into opportunities. This is what great personalities did, and the world remembers them today. I believe that talent has no fixed address, and greatness does not arrive after checking postal addresses of certain individual. Greatness seeks courage and struggle, he said. The Lieutenant Governor was addressing the first convocation of Cluster University of Jammu. He said the graduating students of this maiden convocation are the pioneering torchbearers of the university's tradition, and congratulated all graduates, gold medallists and their parents. Governor of Tamil Nadu Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar also graced the occasion. Sinha specially complimented the women students, noting that 130 of the 163 gold medals had been won by daughters. He observed that when given opportunities, daughters do not merely attain positions but redefine the meaning of achievement. Daughters across higher-education institutions in Jammu Kashmir are writing new chapters of success in their own names, he said. Highlighting the intellectual heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, he noted that Maharishi Kalhana, author of the Rajatarangini, Maharishi Abhinavagupta, and the saint-poets Yogini Lalleshwari and Sheikh-ul-Alam promoted harmony among faiths and the pursuit of truth, and said the graduates were carrying forward a tradition of knowledge more than a thousand years old. The LG said India is witnessing a historic period of transformation and emerging as one of the world's largest and fastest-growing major economies with the national resolve of building a developed India by 2047. By then, many of you will be at the highest peaks of your careers. Therefore, a developed India is not a slogan for another generation; it will be the essence of your life's achievements, he said. He said India now has nearly 2,23,000 startups and 135 unicorns, with many founders coming from small towns, reflecting a genuine democratisation of opportunity and entrepreneurship. Offering a fresh perspective on the demographic dividend, he said he preferred to call it a demographic responsibility, adding that society would benefit when youth connect farmers to markets, women's self-help groups become employment-generating enterprises and engineers develop affordable medical tools for remote areas. Highlighting the significance of the humanities, the Lieutenant Governor said, Technology tells us what we can do, while the humanities teach us what we should do. The nation needs engineers as well as historians, and scientists as well as musicians. On artificial intelligence, he said the relationship between AI and humans would be one of partnership, not competition. AI will have speed and data, but humans will provide direction, compassion and the courage to ask new questions. AI should be guided by civilisational norms, values and accountability, and its development should rest on human welfare, not just profit and productivity, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also offered three practical suggestions for internships present a well-studied solution to a company's challenge rather than simply seeking an opportunity, strive to be so valuable that the team feels one's absence, and choose internships that teach something new and gave five resolutions to students: never stop learning, create opportunities rather than only seek them, uphold honesty and ethics, support those who follow, and express love for the nation through action. Knowledge without character is meaningless. Therefore, do not merely aim to be a topper, become individuals who have the courage to speak the truth, the resolve to do what is right, and who treat every human being with dignity and respect, he said. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; Minister for School Education, Higher Education and Jal Shakti Shamim Firdous; Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu, Prof K.S. Chandrasekar; Registrar Ankur Mahajan; MP Jugal Kishore Sharma; MLA Jammu West Arvind Gupta; HoDs, faculty members, students and their parents attended the ceremony.
J&K braces for winter power shortage despite 330 mw boost
Srinagar, Nov 14: Jammu and Kashmir faces a possible electricity shortage during the winter months despite an additional allocation of around 330 megawatts (MW) from the central power pool, with projected demand reaching nearly 2,900 MW and declining hydropower generation adding to supply concerns. The Union Ministry of Power's revised allocation arrangements for winter 202627 indicate that supplementary electricity has been earmarked for December, January and February, while November and March remain outside the reported three-month additional allocation arrangement. The revised order, issued on September 29, 2026, concerns the distribution of electricity from the unallocated quota of Central Generating Stations among beneficiaries in the northern region. According to previously reported details of the allocation, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh together were assigned 655 MW from the central unallocated power pool for November 2026. The allocation is scheduled to increase to 845 MW during December and January before returning to 655 MW in February. The figures represent allocations from a particular central power pool rather than the total electricity available to Jammu and Kashmir. Actual supply remains dependent on generation at the concerned stations and subsequent allocation revisions. The winter arrangements come against the backdrop of increasing electricity requirements in Jammu and Kashmir, where demand rises during the colder months while generation from hydropower projects generally declines because of reduced water discharge. According to estimates previously attributed to power sector officials, electricity demand in Jammu and Kashmir was around 2,100 to 2,200 MW in October and could increase to approximately 2,900 MW during peak winter. The estimates also indicate that the Union Territory can face a seasonal electricity shortage ranging between 800 and 1,000 MW, requiring additional procurement from central generating stations and power exchanges. The reported allocation of around 330 MW is expected to help address part of this requirement during the three winter months. However, it does not, by itself, establish that the projected demand-supply gap will be eliminated. The allocation figures also raise questions about electricity availability during November and March, when the additional winter arrangement is not scheduled to operate. The power supply position during these months will depend on generation from local hydropower stations, electricity available through existing central allocations and purchases from the market. Reduced hydropower generation remains a factor in Jammu and Kashmir's winter electricity supply. As temperatures fall, water discharge in rivers decreases, affecting generation from hydropower projects and increasing dependence on electricity supplied from outside the Union Territory. Reports citing power sector officials indicated that generation from J&K-owned hydropower projects had declined to approximately 250 to 300 MW in early November. The decline comes at a time when demand for electricity increases because of heating requirements, particularly in Kashmir. The Central Electricity Authority's projections for 202627 have separately indicated a possible peak electricity deficit of 623 MW for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh combined during November, with projected demand of 3,813 MW against availability of 3,190 MW.
Nine-year-old girl killed as school boundary wall collapses in Kupwara
Srinagar, Nov 14: Unlike other schools wherein the kids don special dresses and uniform for the skit and other celebrations on Childrens Day, a quieter, devastating scene unfolded in Kupwara, where a young girl lost her life after a boundary wall collapsed on her. For the family of the 9-year-old kid who lost her life []
Communism and the Modern World
A century after communism became a governing force, the world has not settled the argument it began. The Soviet Union is gone, the Berlin Wall has fallen, and many states that once called themselves communist have transformed their economies. Yet the questions that gave the idea its appeal remain with us: Who owns the wealth a society produces? Why do some people work hard and remain poor while others inherit power and comfort? And can economic life be organised around human need rather than private profit alone? These questions have acquired fresh urgency in a world of widening inequalities, precarious work and immense concentrations of wealth. Technology has made fortunes in a matter of years, while millions struggle with insecure jobs, rising costs and shrinking prospects. The language of class may have changed, but the experience of being left behind has not. Communism, as a critique of exploitation and unequal power, therefore cannot be dismissed as a relic simply because the political systems built in its name have faltered. But neither can it be defended through nostalgia. The record of twentieth-century communist states is inseparable from authoritarian rule, political repression, censorship and the concentration of power in the hands of a party-state. In promising liberation from exploitation, many of these governments denied people the freedom to organise, speak, worship, dissent and choose their leaders. The contradiction is central: equality imposed from above can become another form of domination. To understand communism today, we must distinguish between the questions it asks and the answers governments have claimed to provide. Its most persistent question is whether a society can call itself just while economic power rests overwhelmingly with a small minority. Its most troubling historical answer was that justice could be secured by transferring that power to a state that claimed to speak for everyone. When the state became the sole arbiter of work, property, public debate and political participation, the working people in whose name the system operated often had little say over their own lives. The promise of equality was real to many who had known deprivation and social exclusion. In places marked by extreme poverty, illiteracy and entrenched privilege, the language of workers rights and public ownership offered a vision of dignity. It held that people who produce societys wealth should share in its benefits, and that basic necessities should not depend entirely on purchasing power. That aspiration remains powerful. Healthcare, education, housing and social protection are still widely debated as rights, not merely commodities. Yet the history of communist governance shows that good intentions do not guarantee just outcomes. When a ruling party monopolises political life, the absence of private ownership does not automatically mean that ordinary people control production. A bureaucracy may replace private owners, and citizens may remain powerless before decisions made in their name. Equality in official language can coexist with privilege in practice. The question is not only who owns property, but who makes decisions, who can challenge them and who is accountable when they fail. This is one reason the modern debate should not be reduced to a choice between unregulated capitalism and centralised state control. Many societies have tried to build systems that temper markets through public services, labour protections, progressive taxation and democratic institutions. These arrangements are neither a final answer nor free of conflict. They can be weakened by lobbying, austerity and the influence of concentrated wealth. But they demonstrate that the pursuit of social justice need not require the abolition of political pluralism or individual liberty. The modern economy also complicates the old image of a single, unified working class. Workers now include factory employees, delivery riders, care workers, teachers, office staff, migrant labourers and people whose work is mediated by digital platforms. Some have secure contracts and bargaining power; others are paid by the task, monitored by algorithms or left without benefits. Many are technically self-employed but have little control over the conditions of their work. The language of class remains useful, but it must be attentive to differences of gender, race, caste, migration and geography that shape how economic power is experienced. A serious contemporary left politics must also take account of how wealth is created and distributed in a globalised world. Production crosses borders, capital moves quickly, and decisions made by distant corporations can affect livelihoods in entire regions. Workers in one country may be pitted against workers elsewhere through the threat of relocation. Environmental costs are often borne by communities that receive few of the benefits. A politics of economic justice must therefore speak not only about ownership, but also about bargaining power, ecological responsibility and the democratic oversight of institutions that shape everyday life. Technology adds another layer. Automation and artificial intelligence may increase productivity, but the gains do not distribute themselves fairly. If the benefits accrue mainly to shareholders and a narrow group of skilled workers while others face displacement, technology can deepen insecurity rather than reduce drudgery. The old promise that progress should improve ordinary life remains relevant. It raises practical questions: Who owns the systems and data that generate value? Who decides how they are used? And how can workers share in the productivity they help make possible? These are not questions that can be answered by slogans. Public ownership may be appropriate in some sectors and ineffective in others. Markets can encourage innovation, but without rules they can also reward monopoly and shift risks onto workers and consumers. State institutions can provide essential services, but they require transparency, competence and public accountability. The challenge is to build arrangements in which economic decisions are open to democratic influence and people have genuine protections against both private exploitation and public coercion. Freedom must remain part of that discussion. Political liberty is not a decorative extra to be postponed until after economic transformation. The ability to criticise leaders, organise independent unions, publish dissenting views and replace governments is essential to protecting people from concentrated power. Without these freedoms, a government may claim to represent the working class while preventing workers from speaking for themselves. History offers enough warnings against treating dissent as betrayal or assuming that one partys authority is the same as popular rule. At the same time, political freedom is incomplete when economic insecurity leaves people unable to exercise it meaningfully. A person facing hunger, homelessness or the loss of healthcare may possess formal rights but lack the security to use them. Freedom from state interference matters, but so does freedom from conditions that make a decent life unreachable. The strongest democratic politics recognises both: it protects civil liberties and works to ensure that people have the material security necessary to participate in society. Communisms relevance, then, lies less in the prospect of restoring a discredited model than in the questions it presses on the present. It asks us to examine whether workers have a meaningful voice, whether wealth carries obligations, whether essential services should be governed solely by ability to pay, and whether economic power is compatible with democracy when it becomes too concentrated. These questions are not owned by one ideology. They belong to any society that claims to value fairness and human dignity. There is also a caution in the word itself. For some, communism recalls solidarity, anti-colonial struggles and the demand that the poor should not remain poor by birth. For others, it evokes prisons, censorship, forced conformity and governments that treated citizens as instruments of a historical project. Both memories are part of the modern debate. To erase either is to turn political argument into mythmaking. The way forward is not to pretend that the past can be repeated, nor to accept that current inequalities are inevitable. It is to insist on democratic ways of sharing power and opportunity: independent unions, fair wages, accessible public services, accountable institutions and limits on the domination of public life by concentrated wealth. Such measures do not settle every ideological dispute, but they make the core question practical: can ordinary people shape the decisions that govern their work and their future? Communism has not provided a lasting answer to that question. Its history shows how a promise of equality can be betrayed when power is centralised and dissent is crushed. But the modern world has not made the question disappear. As long as vast fortunes coexist with insecurity, and as long as those who do the work have little influence over its rewards, the demand for a more equal society will endure. The task is to pursue that demand without surrendering the freedoms that make justice meaningful. ( The Author is a research scholar and columnist)
Govt committed to strengthening start-up ecosystem, improving access to credit: CM
Urges CUJ graduates to become entrepreneurs, innovators, value creators Jammu, Nov 14: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday attended the first-ever convocation of Cluster University of Jammu at Abhinav Theatre here, describing the institution as a bold educational experiment conceived to bring together the regions strongest academic traditions and modernise higher education. Governor of Tamil []
AI will give speed but humans must provide direction: LG Sinha
Calls upon youth to treat Indias demographic dividend as demographic responsibility Jammu, Nov 14: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the first convocation of Cluster University of Jammu on Saturday. He said the graduating students of this maiden convocation are the pioneering torchbearers of the universitys tradition, and congratulated all graduates, gold medallists and their parents. []
Kulgam attack: Search op continues for 4th day
DGP visits multiple sites; CRPF DG chairs operational conference, reviews security Kulgam, Nov 14: The massive search operation to track down the militants involved in the firing on a party of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in South Kashmirs Kulgam district continued for the fourth consecutive day on Saturday. An official said that dog squads []
Kashmir DCs told to set up district-level social media cells
Srinagar, Nov 14: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg on Saturday directed all Deputy Commissioners to operationalise district-level social media cells in their respective districts to strengthen public outreach, ensure effective dissemination of information, facilitate timely communication with the public and monitoring. He issued the direction while chairing an extensive review meeting to assess the progress []
Farmers advised to resume work Srinagar, Nov 14: Gulmarg recorded the lowest minimum temperature in Kashmir at minus 1.6 degrees Celsius, while Shopian was the coldest among the plains at 0.9 degrees Celsius, as fresh rainfall and snowfall in higher reaches marked Saturdays weather across Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. According to the Meteorological Centre []
Traffic Police blacklist 60,000 vehicles having 5 or more pending challans: DIG Haseeb-ur-Rehman
Srinagar, Nov 14: Deputy Inspector General of Traffic J&K Haseeb-ur-Rehman on Saturday said that J&K Traffic Police have blacklisted nearly 60,000 vehicles having five or more pending traffic challans, while smart cameras are increasingly detecting violations such as red-light jumping, riding without helmets and driving without seat belts. Talking to reporters here, the DIG said []
The Patwari Holds Up The Revenue Dept: Time For Commitments, Not Assurances
With 1,627 halqas and about 1,100 Patwaris, J&Ks grassroots revenue staff are stretched thin as digital duties pile up. Patwaris are asked to deliver AgriStack, Farmer IDs and online mutations, often without computers, power or an office. From delimitation of PatwarHalqas and Girdawar circles to Grade Pay, promotions, recruitment rules and digital infrastructure, the government []
The Value of Silence in a World That Never Stops Speaking
We live in a world where almost everyone has something to say, an opinion to express or a reaction to share. Conversations continue across screens, notifications interrupt our routines, and every event seems to demand an immediate response. We have more opportunities to communicate than any generation before us, yet the ability to listen, reflect and remain thoughtfully silent appears to be receiving less attention. In this age of constant communication, perhaps one of the most underrated qualities is the ability to remain silent when silence is more meaningful than words. Silence, however, is frequently misunderstood. It is sometimes associated with weakness, hesitation or a lack of confidence. In reality, silence can represent maturity, emotional intelligence, patience and self-control. It is not always the absence of an answer; sometimes, it is the presence of wisdom. When Every Opinion Demands an Audience The digital revolution has made expressing opinions remarkably easy. A few sentences can reach thousands of people within seconds. Social media has created valuable opportunities for discussion, awareness, knowledge-sharing and public participation. However, the speed of communication has also changed our relationship with information. We often respond before understanding, judge before listening and speak before reflecting. An issue barely emerges before numerous opinions, reactions and interpretations begin circulating. The ability to express an opinion is important, but the responsibility to express it thoughtfully is equally important. Not every disagreement requires an argument. Not every criticism deserves an immediate response. Not every conversation needs to end with someone proving a point. Sometimes, the most intelligent response is to pause, understand the situation and choose words carefully. The Forgotten Art of Listening Listening is one of the simplest yet most neglected forms of communication. Many people listen with the intention of responding rather than understanding. A meaningful conversation, however, requires more than exchanging words. It requires patience, attention and a willingness to appreciate perspectives different from our own. In workplaces, educational institutions and personal relationships, misunderstandings often arise not because people lack the ability to speak, but because they lack the willingness to listen. A colleague who listens patiently can prevent unnecessary conflict. A teacher who understands a students concerns can make a lasting difference. A leader who listens to different viewpoints can make more informed decisions. Listening does not mean agreeing with everyone. It means respecting the other persons right to express a thought. Silence gives listening the space it needs. Silence and Emotional Intelligence. One of the greatest signs of emotional maturity is the ability to manage ones reactions. Anger often encourages immediate responses. Disappointment may lead to harsh words, while misunderstandings can turn ordinary conversations into unnecessary conflicts. In such moments, a brief pause can make an enormous difference. Words spoken in haste may damage relationships that have taken years to build. A moment of restraint can prevent a situation from becoming more complicated. This does not mean that people should remain silent in the face of injustice, wrongdoing or genuine concerns. Speaking up is sometimes a moral responsibility. The important distinction lies between thoughtful expression and impulsive reaction. There is courage in speaking when something needs to be said, just as there is wisdom in remaining silent when words would serve no meaningful purpose. The objective should not be silence at every cost, but communication guided by understanding and responsibility. The Professional Value of Thoughtful Silence In professional life, the ability to listen and respond appropriately is particularly important. Every workplace brings together people with different experiences, responsibilities and perspectives. Differences of opinion are natural and can contribute positively to institutional growth when handled with maturity. An effective professional does not need to participate in every disagreement or respond to every comment. The ability to assess a situation before speaking reflects confidence and sound judgement. Similarly, leadership is not measured by how much a person speaks, but by the quality of decisions, the willingness to listen and the ability to communicate with clarity. A thoughtful leader creates an environment in which people feel comfortable expressing concerns without fear of humiliation. Such an environment encourages cooperation, trust and collective progress. Silence, in this context, is not disengagement. It is an opportunity to understand before deciding. Making Space for Reflection Modern life has made silence increasingly difficult to experience. Even moments that were once reserved for reflection are frequently occupied by digital distractions. A quiet walk, a few minutes without a mobile phone, reading a book or simply sitting with ones thoughts can provide valuable mental space. Reflection allows individuals to examine their decisions, understand their emotions and reconsider their priorities. It helps us distinguish between what is urgent and what is important. A society that values reflection is better equipped to encourage thoughtful dialogue, responsible citizenship and informed decision-making. Young people, in particular, should be encouraged to develop the habit of reading, listening and thinking independently. Education should not only prepare individuals to communicate effectively but also teach them when, why and how to communicate responsibly. Finding the Right Balance Silence should never become an excuse for indifference, fear or the avoidance of responsibility. A healthy society needs informed voices, constructive criticism, open dialogue and individuals willing to stand for what is right. The real challenge is finding the balance between speaking and listening, expressing and understanding, reacting and reflecting. We must create a culture where people can disagree without disrespect, question without hostility and communicate without constantly competing for attention. The ability to speak is a gift, but the ability to use words wisely is a quality that requires practice. Perhaps we do not need more conversations as much as we need more meaningful ones. We do not necessarily need louder voices; we need clearer thoughts, more patient listeners and more responsible expressions. The Wisdom of Knowing When to Pause As the world becomes increasingly connected, the value of silence may become even greater. Technology will continue to make communication faster, but speed alone cannot guarantee understanding. More information does not automatically produce greater wisdom, and more opinions do not necessarily create better conversations. Ultimately, the quality of our communication depends not on the number of words we speak but on the thought, sincerity and responsibility behind them. Sometimes, silence protects a relationship. Sometimes, it prevents an unnecessary argument. Sometimes, it allows another person to be heard. And sometimes, it gives us the opportunity to discover what we genuinely think. We should not be afraid of silence, nor should we glorify it at the expense of necessary expression. Instead, we should learn to recognise its value. In a world competing to be heard, perhaps the real strength lies in knowing when to speak, when to listen and when to let silence speak for itself. (The Author works at a premier medical college in Jammu & Kashmir)
An acquaintance once got annoyed with me over a minor misunderstanding. Naturally, I wanted to set things right by explaining things that had led to the confusion. I told her everything: the backstory, my intentions, the chronology, and even made many solemn pledges. In this courtroom, I was both the lawyer and the defendant. Turns out, however, that the verdict had already been delivered, and no defence was really needed. I was guilty until proven guilty. There was no alternative. With a mouth dry as parchment and disbelief in my eyes, I watched her leave with a huff. What astonished me even more was discovering that our conversation was soon doing the rounds in her circle. Apparently, my sincere explanations were proof not of my innocence but as further evidence of guilt. It was an eye-opener. This is how I stumbled upon the law of diminishing returns in human understanding: sometimes, the more you explain, the less value your words acquire. I was reminded of Harper Lee's famous words: People generally see what they look for and hear what they listen for. For some, even rose-coloured glasses are just foggy lens. If you find yourself in a similar situation and have done nothing wrong, you must still explain yourself. Once, perhaps twice. Beyond that, forget it and move on. If you bend over backwards trying to improve someone's opinion of you, you might end up breaking, which they will see as justice served. Perhaps none of this is anyone's fault. Our minds are like jigsaw puzzles, and there are only particular pieces that fit. The pieces that require us to rearrange the entire puzzle may be unceremoniously discarded. As we age, we develop deeply ingrained patterns of thinking, and information that reinforces our existing beliefs is much easier to accommodate than information that challenges them. Everything else takes effort and energy. This is why learning is hard as adults; changing our minds is harder. We seek facts that reinforce our opinions. Everything else rolls off us like water off a lotus leaf. Often, we are not looking for the truth; we are looking for supportive evidence that will strengthen our case. Even the most open-minded people are open-minded only for some things, not everything. So, if I hate you, chances are I will hate everything you say, even if it is the most beautiful prose in the world. As they say, it is not about you at all; it is about me! So, we must learn to live with the fact that conflicts and misunderstandings are part of life. If unresolved after a reasonable number of attempts, we must accept the unfriending. In our attempts to be liked, lets not become doormats and let people walk all over us. Lets be doors instead. Door can open to welcome people in; can also shut firmly when the need arises. Even with fewer people on our side, the sky will remain blue, the butterflies just as beautiful. People who value your worth do not need explanations; they will find excuses for you even when you really are wrong. Those are your people. Keep them and keep your truths. For never, ever will everyone agree on everything. And that is okay. (The Author is a PhD, PDF(USA), Assistant Professor cum Junior Scientist, Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, SKUAST-Kashmir)
Perfection is humanity's most seductive illusion: an ideal relentlessly pursued, yet inherently unattainable. We live in an age that celebrates immaculate appearances, glorifies exceptional achievements and scrutinises the slightest imperfection. Somewhere between societal expectations and personal aspirations, the pursuit of excellence has mutated into an obsession with flawlessness. The paradox is unmistakable. Never before have had individuals possessed so many avenues for self-expression, yet never have they felt such pressure to conform. Social media has transformed existence into a spectacle of carefully curated identities, manufactured happiness and selectively displayed success. We compare our unedited realities with someone else's polished illusions and mistake the disparity for personal inadequacy. What follows is not inspiration, but an insidious erosion of self-worth. The consequences extend far beyond appearances. We have cultivated a culture that mistakes vulnerability for weakness, failure for incompetence and imperfection for inadequacy. Individuals increasingly measure their worth through external validation, seeking applause rather than fulfilment and recognition rather than purpose. In this relentless pursuit of acceptance, authenticity becomes expendable. Yet, the very premise of perfectionism is fundamentally flawed. Human existence is neither linear nor immaculate. It is punctuated by uncertainty, disappointment, contradiction and failure. These are not aberrations to be concealed; they are experiences through which character is forged. Failure cultivates resilience, adversity sharpens judgement and vulnerability deepens empathy. A life untouched by struggle may appear comfortable, but it is unlikely to acquire the wisdom that experience bestows. More importantly, we must distinguish between excellence and perfectionism. Excellence inspires progress; perfectionism breeds paralysis. The former encourages experimentation; the latter instils a fear of failure. One recognises limitations and strives to transcend them; the other demands an impossible standard and condemns every deviation. When the fear of making mistakes outweighs the courage to attempt something meaningful, ambition itself becomes a casualty. This distinction has profound implications for society. Educational institutions must not reduce intelligence to examination scores, workplaces must not confuse productivity with human worth, and families must not burden individuals with expectations that leave no room for individuality. A society intolerant of mistakes ultimately discourages innovation, suppresses creativity and rewards conformity over courage. Progress demands the freedom to question, experiment, stumble and begin again. None of this is an argument against ambition or self-improvement. The pursuit of excellence remains indispensable. What deserves scrutiny is the psychological price we are willing to pay for an illusion. Growth should be driven by aspiration, not insecurity; by purpose, not comparison. The objective should be to become better than we were yesterday, not to become an impossible version of ourselves imagined by others. Perhaps the greatest irony of modern existence is that we have become remarkably skilled at constructing impressive identities while neglecting the substance of our character. We polish our appearances but overlook our prejudices, accumulate accomplishments but neglect contentment, and seek admiration while compromising authenticity. In trying so desperately to appear complete, we become increasingly disconnected from ourselves. Ultimately, perfection is not the absence of flaws; it is the illusion that flaws diminish human worth. True excellence lies in acknowledging one's limitations without surrendering one's aspirations, confronting failures without losing conviction, and evolving without abandoning individuality. A flawless image may command attention, but an authentic character commands respect. A perfect life may exist in imagination; a meaningful life exists in the courage to embrace reality. (The author is a freelance Columnist and writes on various issues. He can be reached at: fidahumairawrite@gmail.com)
Saving Wetlands is Saving Kashmir
A wetland rarely disappears in a single dramatic moment. It is edged out, one patch at a time: a stretch filled, a channel narrowed, waste tipped into water, a boundary left unmarked. A little later, the damage is described as inevitable. In Kashmir, where wetlands are woven into the valleys ecology and daily life, that slow disappearance should alarm us. Saving them is not a sentimental appeal to preserve scenery. It is a practical demand to protect people, livelihoods and the natural systems on which the region depends. The valleys wetlands are not empty land waiting to be put to use. They are living landscapesholding water, supporting fish and plants, providing habitat for birds, and helping sustain the communities around them. They also form part of Kashmirs natural defence against excess water. Wetlands can absorb and store water, easing pressure on settlements and drainage systems during periods of heavy rainfall. Their capacity is not unlimited, and it cannot replace sound planning or infrastructure. But treating them as expendable weakens one of the safeguards nature has already placed in our hands. That is why the loss of a wetland is never confined to its boundary. When a marsh is filled or its waterways are obstructed, the consequences can travel outward: water has fewer places to settle, pollution has fewer natural processes to help absorb it, and habitats become more fragmented. People may notice the change first as an unpleasant smell, declining fish or fewer birds. The deeper cost is less visiblethe loss of resilience that becomes apparent when the land is under stress. Kashmirs wetlands have long been caught between competing pressures. Growing settlements require space, roads and services. Agriculture and other livelihoods depend on land and water. Tourism brings economic opportunity, but also more waste and demand on fragile places. These needs are real. Yet development that erases the ecological foundations of a region is not progress; it is a transfer of costs from the present to the future. A wetland filled today may appear to solve an immediate land-use problem, while leaving residents to bear the consequences of diminished water storage, degraded surroundings and lost livelihoods. The first requirement of protection is to know what exists and where. Wetlands need clear, publicly accessible boundaries, accurate records and regular monitoring. Without those basics, violations can be disputed, enforcement delayed and responsibility passed from one office to another. Mapping must be more than a document produced for a file. It should guide land-use decisions, inform local communities and help officials identify changes before they become irreversible. Where boundaries are already known, they must be marked on the ground and defended consistently. The next requirement is enforcement. Laws and notifications mean little if construction, dumping or filling continue without timely action. Authorities must investigate encroachments, stop ongoing damage and hold violators accountable, regardless of their influence. If a wetland has been illegally altered, restoration should be pursued wherever it is ecologically possible. This cannot mean simply removing visible debris and declaring the matter resolved. Water channels, vegetation, habitats and the relationships between a wetland and its surrounding landscape all matter. Restoration requires expertise, patience and monitoring. Pollution is another front on which protection must become visible. Untreated sewage, solid waste and run-off can degrade water and harm the plants, fish and other life that make wetlands function. Cleaning campaigns may remove litter for a day, but they cannot substitute for reliable waste collection, treatment facilities and enforcement against dumping. Nor should communities living beside wetlands be left to carry a burden created by failures of planning and service delivery. If officials expect people to protect these places, they must provide the systems that make protection possible. The people who live near wetlands should be partners in their conservation, not treated as obstacles to it. Their knowledge of seasonal water, local changes and long-standing uses can help identify problems early. At the same time, conservation plans must recognise legitimate livelihood needs and explain clearly what activities are permitted and why. Rules imposed without consultation can breed resentment; rules enforced selectively invite distrust. Transparent decision-making and meaningful participation are essential to make protection fair as well as effective. This is especially important because the benefits of wetlands extend beyond the villages beside them. The health of a wetland can affect water, wildlife and the wider landscape. Its decline may impose costs on communities that had little say in the decisions that damaged it. Protecting a wetland is therefore a public responsibility. Local bodies, planners, environmental agencies and elected representatives must work from shared information and clear lines of accountability. When authority is divided, coordination cannot be optional: there must be a named body responsible for action, a timetable for review and public reporting on progress. The public, too, has a rolebut public participation must not become a convenient excuse for government inaction. Residents can report dumping, support community monitoring and avoid treating wetlands as rubbish grounds. Schools and local organisations can help build awareness of why these landscapes matter. Yet people cannot be expected to compensate for absent sewage treatment, weak enforcement or unplanned construction. Civic responsibility and official responsibility belong together; neither cancels the other. There is also a need to resist the idea that every piece of land must be judged by its immediate commercial value. Wetlands provide benefits that are often not captured in a market price: flood moderation, habitat, water-related livelihoods, public health and a sense of place. Once a wetland is filled, those benefits are difficultsometimes impossibleto recreate. Decisions about development should therefore account for the cost of losing these functions, not merely the short-term gain from changing the lands use. Prevention is usually less costly and more reliable than repairing damage after it has spread. Saving wetlands does not mean freezing Kashmir in time or denying communities the infrastructure they need. It means planning with an honest understanding of ecological limits. Roads, housing and public services can be developed while respecting protected areas, provided that rules are clear and alternatives are considered before construction begins. Every proposal affecting a wetland should face careful scrutiny, public disclosure and an assessment of its wider consequences. Where development would cause irreversible harm, the answer should be to find another sitenot to make the wetland absorb the cost. The test of commitment will not be how often wetlands appear in speeches. It will be whether boundaries are protected, pollution is reduced, encroachments are stopped and restoration is followed through. It will be whether communities can see the decisions being made and know who is responsible when promises are broken. Conservation succeeds through steady administration as much as through public concern. Kashmir cannot afford to regard wetlands as leftover spaces between settlements. They are part of the regions living infrastructure, shaped by water and indispensable to the health of the landscape. Their protection demands more than occasional clean-ups or declarations of intent. It requires planning that respects natural systems, enforcement that applies equally and investment in the services that prevent pollution and degradation. The choice is not between people and wetlands. It is between short-term decisions that weaken the valleys natural safeguards and a form of development that recognises their value. A wetland lost to neglect is not merely a patch of land altered. It is a public asset diminished and a responsibility deferred. Saving these places is, in the most direct sense, saving Kashmirs capacity to endure. ( The Author is a lecturer in HED and a columnist)
Mirwaiz features in Muslim 500 for 13th consecutive year
Srinagar, Nov 14: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq has been named among the world's 500 most influential Muslim personalities for the 13th consecutive year in the 2027 edition of The Muslim 500, published by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre (RISSC), Jordan. Listed under the Political category, the publication identifies Mirwaiz as the 14th Mirwaiz of Kashmir, who assumed the religious leadership in 1990 at the age of 17 following the assassination of his father. The publication acknowledges his longstanding advocacy of dialogue and peaceful engagement to address the Kashmir issue, highlighting his repeated calls for dialogue between India and Pakistan as the only sustainable path to peace. It also refers to his prolonged house detention from August 2019 to September 2023 and notes that he continues to face intermittent restrictions and detentions. Describing his role as chief cleric at Srinagar's historic Jamia Masjid, the publication recognises his efforts to combine traditional religious leadership with human rights advocacy. For over three decades, Mirwaiz has maintained that dialogue rather than confrontation offers the most viable way to resolve the Kashmir issue. Despite restrictions on his movement and public activities, he has continued to advocate peace, reconciliation, religious harmony and human dignity, reads a statement from Mirwaiz.
Anantnag Police attach Rs 13.05-cr assets in drug case
Anantnag, Nov 14: In a major action against drug trafficking and its financial networks, Jammu and Kashmir Police have attached immovable properties worth approximately Rs 13.05 crore belonging to an alleged drug peddler involved in multiple cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. As per a police statement, the action was carried out by Police Station Bijbehara against Ab Gani Dar, son of Ali Mohd Dar, a resident of Tulkhun, Bijbehara, under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act. The attached properties include a double-storey concrete residential house and 17 kanals and 15 marlas of commercial and agricultural land, collectively assessed at Rs 13.05 crore. Police said the action was part of its sustained crackdown on drug trafficking, aimed at dismantling the financial networks of drug peddlers and targeting properties allegedly acquired through proceeds of drug-related activities. Police reiterated its commitment to taking stringent legal action against those involved in drug trafficking and urged the public to cooperate in the fight against the drug menace.
Jammu to get 25 large, 75 mini electric buses
Jammu, Nov 14: Jammu is set to receive 100 additional electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme, with work on a new depot at Bhagwati Nagar progressing to support the expanded fleet. A team from the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), led by Director Urban Transport Bhanu Pratap Singh Bhadoria, visited the under-construction depot on Saturday to review the progress of the project and assess the operation of the city's existing electric bus fleet. Officials informed the team that the additional fleet would comprise 25 twelve-metre buses and 75 seven-metre buses. While the larger buses are proposed for routes with higher passenger demand, the smaller ones will cater to congested areas and narrower roads. The process for procuring the 25 twelve-metre buses has advanced following an agreement with PMI Electro Mobility Solutions Private Limited. For the remaining 75 seven-metre buses, Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) has issued the Letter of Confirmation of Demand (LoCD). The Bhagwati Nagar depot, being developed by Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL), has an estimated cost of Rs 16.72 crore. This includes Rs 15.05 crore in Central Assistance and Rs 1.67 crore as the Union Territory's share. The team reviewed the physical and financial progress of the depot and was briefed about the power infrastructure being developed by Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) to meet the electricity requirements of the facility and its charging stations. The visiting officials also reviewed the operations of Jammu's existing 100 electric buses, provided under the FAME-II Scheme and operated by JSCL. The fleet operates on several routes within Jammu and connects the city with adjoining destinations, including Kathua, Udhampur, Katra and Khour. Officials said the buses are equipped with CCTV cameras, emergency panic buttons, real-time vehicle tracking and passenger information systems. Bhadoria expressed satisfaction over the progress of the depot and appreciated the operation of the existing electric bus fleet. Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation and CEO JSCL Ayushi Sudan accompanied the team during the inspection. The team also included Divya Jain, State Representative, Programme Management Unit, PM-eBus Sewa, besides officials of JMC, JSCL and other departments.
1,600 kg buffalo meat found unfit, destroyed in Budgam
Budgam, Nov 14: The FDA, J&K, along with the Railway Police, railway authorities and the District Administration, Budgam, seized and subsequently destroyed approximately 1,600 kg of buffalo meat at Budgam Railway Station following the detection of serious violations relating to its declaration, transportation and maintenance of prescribed cold-chain conditions. In a statement, the department said that the enforcement action was initiated following specific information received from the railway authorities regarding the transportation of a consignment of buffalo meat. Acting promptly on the information, the Food Safety Team, Budgam, inspected the consignment and it was observed that adequate refrigeration or dry-ice arrangements had not been made to maintain the prescribed transportation temperature of -18C or below, thereby compromising the mandatory cold-chain requirements, the statement reads. The department said that the consignment was further subjected to preliminary testing through the Food Safety on Wheels facility, which indicated that the meat was unfit for human consumption. Accordingly, the entire consignment, weighing approximately 1,600 kg, was seized and subsequently destroyed in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the prescribed procedures for disposal of food articles unfit for human consumption, the statement adds. It is pertinent to mention that, in an earlier enforcement action, the Food Safety Authorities had seized approximately 2,600 kg of meat in Srinagar. The FDA, J&K, continues to maintain strict vigilance across all districts to prevent the transportation, distribution and sale of unsafe and non-compliant food commodities, with stringent legal action being initiated against violators in accordance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the rules and regulations framed thereunder. The Department has urged consumers to remain vigilant and report any instance of the sale or distribution of unsafe or adulterated food through the official email at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in .
PDP, BJP damaged J&K's identity and rights: NC
Srinagar, Nov 14: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq on Saturday blamed the PDP and BJP for the political and economic challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir, accusing the two parties of damaging the region's identity, dignity and constitutional rights through their decisions during their respective tenures. He was speaking at a meeting of office-bearers of the NC's Zadibal constituency at the party headquarters, Nawa-e-Subha, in Srinagar. The meeting reviewed organisational activities, upcoming party programmes and public issues. Participants also shared updates on ongoing developmental works in their areas and highlighted pending grievances. Addressing the gathering, Sadiq stressed the need to strengthen the party organisation and expand public outreach. He urged party functionaries to effectively communicate the developmental initiatives, welfare schemes and public-friendly decisions taken by the Omar Abdullah-led government over the past two years. He said the government was working seriously towards public welfare and relief, adding that addressing people's grievances remained its top priority. Taking a dig at the PDP, BJP and their like-minded parties, Sadiq accused them of misleading people through propaganda and statements against the National Conference. He said people were aware of their past record and political conduct. He said the BJP must be held accountable for its decisions concerning Jammu and Kashmir and the promises made to the people, while the PDP should reflect on its political contradictions and past positions. Sadiq said the National Conference, unlike parties engaged in blame games, remained focused on good governance, fulfilling its commitments and representing people's aspirations. The meeting was attended by Youth National Conference functionaries, senior party leaders, block and constituency presidents, secretaries, mohalla presidents and party workers from various areas of Zadibal.
AIP questions govt over youth unemployment in J&K
Srinagar, Nov 14: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) on Saturday criticised the Omar Abdullah-led government over the reported high youth unemployment rate in Jammu and Kashmir, questioning its efforts to address the employment concerns of the younger generation. Referring to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) figures showing an unemployment rate of 26.2 per cent among youth aged 1529 years in J&K, against the national average of 15.3 per cent, an AIP spokesperson said the figures should prompt the government to explain why the region continues to face such a high level of unemployment. The spokesperson also questioned the status of the National Conference's promise to provide one lakh jobs, saying electoral commitments should be assessed on the basis of their implementation. He said the Chief Minister must explain the progress made towards fulfilling the promise, adding that young people had been waiting for meaningful improvement in employment opportunities. Calling for a comprehensive response, the spokesperson said the government should fill vacant posts, introduce a transparent recruitment calendar and create conditions for private investment, local businesses and entrepreneurship to generate sustainable employment. He also sought a concrete and time-bound action plan, saying the aspirations of young people required serious attention rather than routine assurances.
Apni Party leaders flag Hazratbal grievances
Srinagar, Nov 14: A delegation of Apni Party leaders and workers from Hazratbal constituency on Saturday called on party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari at the party headquarters in Srinagar and apprised him of various public issues and organisational matters. The delegation was led by Mohammad Sidiq Mir, the party's constituency in-charge for Hazratbal. During the meeting, the delegation members highlighted various grievances and concerns of residents and discussed matters related to strengthening the party's organisational structure in the constituency. Bukhari gave the delegation a patient hearing and assured its members that the issues raised would be taken up with the concerned authorities for prompt redressal. The delegation included Apni Party Provincial Secretary Kashmir Mohammad Saleem Lone, Provincial Coordinator Shabir Ahmad Reshi, Organising Secretary Kashmir Mohammad Yousuf Abdullah, Srinagar District President Zaffar Habib, Zonal Presidents Farooq Ahmad Magray and Bilal Ahmad Bhat, and District Vice President Youth Srinagar Mudasir Wali, among others.
JKPCC mourns demise of senior leader Shah Chaudhary
Jammu, Nov 14: The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) on Saturday held a condolence meeting at its headquarters, Rajiv Bhawan, Shaheedi Chowk, Jammu, to mourn the demise of senior Congress leader and senior advocate Shah Mohammed Chaudhary. The meeting was presided over by JKPCC working president Raman Bhalla and attended by several senior party leaders and functionaries, who paid tributes to the deceased and recalled his contributions to society and the party. The speakers remembered Chaudhary for his commitment to the ideals of the Congress and his dedication to the welfare of the poor and underprivileged. They said he had consistently extended legal assistance and guidance to needy people, helping them seek justice. The leaders also described him as a secular person who worked for harmonious relations among people belonging to different faiths and sections of society. The gathering observed a two-minute silence to pray for peace to the departed soul and strength for the bereaved family.
Govt prioritises strengthening of power infrastructure: Sagar
Jammu, Nov 14: Minister for Power Development Department (PDD), Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation, Elections and Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR), Ali Mohammad Sagar, today conducted an extensive tour of Jammu city and its adjoining areas to review the existing power infrastructure, assess ongoing augmentation works and take stock of public grievances. During the tour, the Minister inspected major Grid Stations at Gladni, Canal Road and Janipur and reviewed the infrastructure requirements of other important areas, including Bari Brahmana, Sidra, Jagti, Akhnoor and Kalakote. He stressed the need to strengthen the transmission and distribution network to ensure reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply in view of the growing domestic, commercial and industrial demand. At Gladni Grid Station, a major source of power supply to Jammu city, the Minister was informed that the station receives power through Salal and Kishenpur and has a 220/132/33 kV system. The station presently has four 132/33 kV transformers of 50 MVA each, providing a total transformation capacity of 200 MVA. He was further informed that an additional capacity of 80 MVA is under execution and is expected to be commissioned within six months. The augmentation is aimed at improving power supply to Gandhi Nagar, Channi Himmat, Bathindi and adjoining areas. The existing emergency backup arrangements were also reviewed to ensure continuity of supply during contingencies. Reviewing the proposed augmentation at Canal Road Grid Station, the Minister was apprised that the existing capacity of approximately 120 MVA is proposed to be enhanced to 150 MVA. The augmentation will strengthen power supply to Jewel Chowk, Subash Nagar, Canal Road, Satwari, Army and Air Force establishments, Cantonment areas and adjoining localities up to Talab Tillo. The requirement of an additional load of around 30 MW was also discussed. At Janipur Grid Station, the Minister reviewed the existing power infrastructure and was briefed on the proposed augmentation and transformer replacement works. The existing arrangement comprises three 50 MVA transformers, providing a transformation capacity of 150 MVA. He was informed about the proposed addition of 80 MVA capacity and replacement of an existing 50 MVA transformer, with the works targeted for completion within six months. Special focus was laid on Bari Brahmana, considering its expanding industrial base and growing domestic power requirements. The Minister stressed the need for a comprehensive assessment of load requirements in Bari Brahmana, Sidra, Jagti, Akhnoor and Kalakote to ensure that the infrastructure is strengthened in anticipation of future demand. Directing the concerned officers to expedite all ongoing works, Sagar said that strengthening the power infrastructure remains a priority of the government and that consumers must receive reliable and quality electricity supply. He emphasised that grid augmentation, replacement of ageing equipment and creation of adequate backup arrangements must be undertaken in a planned and time-bound manner. The Minister directed the department to ensure completion of all ongoing augmentation and transformer replacement works within six months. He also called for a realistic assessment of future domestic, commercial and industrial load requirements to ensure that the power infrastructure keeps pace with the growing needs of Jammu city and its adjoining areas. Sagar further directed the officers to remove bottlenecks affecting execution, maintain adequate emergency backup arrangements and ensure close monitoring of all projects. The Minister also asked the department to submit an area-wise progress report detailing the existing transformation capacity, additional capacity being created, status of works under execution and definite commissioning timelines for regular monitoring at the highest level. During the tour, several delegations and local representatives from different areas also called on the Minister and apprised him of various issues concerning public amenities, power supply and other matters of public importance. The Minister gave them a patient hearing and assured that their genuine concerns would be taken up with the concerned departments for early redressal. Underscoring the importance of proactive planning, timely execution and accountability at every level, Sagar said that a robust power infrastructure is essential for ensuring dependable electricity supply to households, businesses, industries and vital installations across Jammu. The Minister was accompanied by MD JPTCL Habib Choudhary, Chief Engineers and other senior officers of the department.
At Cluster Universitys maiden convocation, Sinha lauds women achievers as daughters bag 130 of 163 gold medals Jammu Tawi, Nov 14: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday urged young graduates to become creators of opportunities rather than merely seeking them, saying startups emerging from small towns reflect the true democratisation of entrepreneurship. Addressing [] The post Create opportunities, dont wait for them: LG to youth appeared first on Northlines .
CM urges youth to become job creators, not job seekers
Jammu Tawi, Nov 14: Asking young graduates to become entrepreneurs, innovators and value creators, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Saturday said that no student should lose an academic year waiting for examinations or the award of a degree. Addressing the first-ever convocation of Cluster University of Jammu at Abhinav Theatre here, CM Omar said, Rapid technological [] The post CM urges youth to become job creators, not job seekers appeared first on Northlines .
Amit Sharma to lead UNFPA panel for census preparedness mission to Trinidad
Arvind Sharma JAMMU Tawi, Nov 14: Amit Sharma, the Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director of Census Operations/Director of Citizen Registration, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, has been selected by the Government of India (GoI) to lead an Indian delegation to Trinidad and Tobago for an important Bilateral Technical Assistance Mission on Census [] The post Amit Sharma to lead UNFPA panel for census preparedness mission to Trinidad & Tobago appeared first on Northlines .
Jammu Schools to hold Class 10, 12 Pre-Boards from Dec 3
Jammu Tawi, Nov 14: The Directorate of School Education Jammu (DSEJ) has announced a uniform schedule for pre-board examinations of Classes 10 and 12 in all government and private recognized schools falling under the summer zone of Jammu Division. As per the schedule, Class 10 examinations will be conducted from December 3 to 14, while [] The post Jammu Schools to hold Class 10, 12 Pre-Boards from Dec 3 appeared first on Northlines .
Srinagar, Nov 14: The infighting within the ruling National Conference has once again come out in the open, with party legislator Javid Iqbal Choudhary describing Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary as a thug. As per the news agency, reacting to an Instagram post questioning his absence from a function attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder [] The post Dy CM draws thug jibe from NC MLA appeared first on Northlines .
CRPF terminates jawan over threating Commander
Jammu Tawi, Nov 14: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has terminated a probationary constable from service for allegedly posting death threats against his company commander on social media, officials said on Saturday. The accused, identified as Pinak Nath, a probationary Constable from Assam, was attached to Alpha Company of the CRPFs 33rd Battalion stationed [] The post CRPF terminates jawan over threating Commander appeared first on Northlines .
Jammu to get 100 additional electric buses
Jammu Tawi, NOVEMBER 14: A team from the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), led by Bhanu Pratap Singh Bhadoria, Director, Urban Transport, on Saturday visited the under-construction electric bus depot at Bhagwati Nagar to review the progress of infrastructure development under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme and assess arrangements for expanding Jammus electric [] The post Jammu to get 100 additional electric buses appeared first on Northlines .
Jammu Grid to get 160 MVA addl capacity within 6 months: Sagar
Jammu Tawi: Power infrastructure in Jammu city and adjoining areas will be augmented with an additional transformation capacity of 160 MVA within six months, as the government has directed the Power Development Department (PDD) to expedite ongoing grid augmentation and transformer replacement works. Minister for Power Development Department, Ali Mohammad Sagar, issued the directions during [] The post Jammu Grid to get 160 MVA addl capacity within 6 months: Sagar appeared first on Northlines .
Kulgam terror attack: Search Op continues for 4th day
Kulgam, Nov 14: The massive search operation to track down the terrorists involved in the firing on a party of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in South Kashmirs Kulgam district continued for the fourth consecutive day on Saturday. An official told the news agency that dog squads were pressed into service to assist search teams. [] The post Kulgam terror attack: Search Op continues for 4th day appeared first on Northlines .
3.1-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Arunachal Pradesh Hours After 4.0 Tremor in Assam
SRINAGAR: A 3.1-magnitude earthquake struck Arunachal Pradeshs Kurung Kumey district on Saturday evening, hours after a 4.0-magnitude earthquake was recorded in Assams Kamrup district, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). The earthquake in Arunachal Pradesh occurred at 9:28:52 pm at a depth of 10 kilometres. The epicentre was located at latitude 28.083 North []
LG Manoj Sinha Congratulates India U19 Cricket Team After Asia Cup Triumph Over Pakistan
SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday congratulated the Indian Under-19 cricket team for winning the Mens U19 Asia Cup 2026, defeating Pakistan by one wicket in a thrilling final at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman. In a post on social media, Sinha praised the young cricketers for their spectacular performance, saying the []
Hair matters to everyone irrespective of gender. Often called natures individual adornment it deserves care that goes deep beyond appearance. This article looks at ways to protect hair without relying solely on conventional products, which mostly coat the outer cuticle and overlook deeper structural problems. Hair at a glance Each hair strand is composed of [] The post Beyond Conventional Hair Care appeared first on Northlines .
Er. Prabhat Kishore Journalism is said to be history written in hurry- Noted Journalist Sri Ananth Narayan Hariharan advocated. It is news-collection, news-editing, preparation of headlines, editorial writings, proof reading and make-up etc. It is an art, a science, a profession, a mission and is an eternal source of strength. It is a chronicle of [] The post Journalism all encompassing role appeared first on Northlines .
U.S. Democratic leadership starts dialogue with progressive bloc for joint strategy
Pro-Socialist House Members cross 106 out of the total 435 representatives By Nitya Chakraborty After the resounding victory of the progressive bloc of the Democratic Party in the November 3 U.S. midterm elections, the centrist dominated Democratic Party establishment has initiated talks with the democratic socialist group mainly led by the senator Bernie [] The post U.S. Democratic leadership starts dialogue with progressive bloc for joint strategy appeared first on Northlines .
Jammu DM Bans Inter-District Transportation of Bovine Animals Without Permission
SRINAGAR: District Magistrate Jammu Minga Sherpa has prohibited the transportation of bovine animals from Jammu district to other districts without prior permission from the District Magistrate or Additional District Magistrate. The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), covers cows, buffaloes, oxen, bulls, calves and other bovine animals. The prohibition []
Plugging gaps in ration distribution
It is a great move by the government to implement facial recognition using Aadhaar in the Public Distribution System. The initiative aims to prevent any misuse and diversion of foodgrains. The Public Distribution System has been playing a crucial role in ensuring food security to the weaker sections. However, there have been many cases of [] The post Plugging gaps in ration distribution appeared first on Northlines .
No Compromise on Meat Quality: Javed Rana Announces Joint Operations Across Jammu Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Amid growing concerns over the quality and safety of meat supplied to consumers in Jammu and Kashmir, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana on Saturday said the government has launched coordinated operations involving multiple departments to ensure quality checks and prevent any compromise with public health. Rana said that []
Kashmir DCs Directed to Set Up District-Level Social Media Cells
SRINAGAR: Deputy Commissioners (DCs) across Kashmir have been directed to operationalise District-level Social Media Cells to ensure timely dissemination of information and effective public outreach. The move is aimed at strengthening digital governance and improving government-public communication, The directions were issued on Saturday during a high-level review meeting, where the need for effective public engagement, []
Kulgam Terror Attack: Security Forces Continue Manhunt, DGP Visits Operation Sites
SRINAGAR: The massive search operation to track down the militants involved in the firing on a party of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in South Kashmirs Kulgam district continued for the fourth consecutive day on Saturday. An official said that dog squads were pressed into service to assist search teams. Security has also been tightened []
Nearly 2,000 Kg of Rotten Meat Seized, Destroyed at Budgam Railway Station in Two Days
SRINAGAR: Officials have seized around two tonnes of rotten meat at Budgam Railway Station over the past two days, with Police registering an FIR in connection with the first seizure and launching an investigation to identify the traders. An official said that around 1,600 kilograms of meat was seized on Friday after Railway Police alerted []
Death of Minor Girl Student: Kupwara Admin Orders Probe, Serves Notice on CEO
SRINAGAR: The District Administration Kupwara has ordered an enquiry into the death of a Class 3 girl student at Middle School Janbazpora in Drugmulla and issued a show-cause notice to the Chief Education Officer (CEO), Kupwara, over alleged non-compliance with directions on mandatory school safety audits. According to an official press brief, a four-member committee []
Bear Attack Leaves Teenager Injured in Poonch
SRINAGAR: A 19-year-old youth was injured in a bear attack in Faghala village of Surankote area in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch district on Saturday evening. The injured youth has been identified as Raiz Ahmed, son of Mohd Akram, a resident of Faghala village. According to reports, Ahmed sustained injuries after being attacked by a bear []
Scooty Rider Critically Injured in Pulwama Road Mishap
SRINAGAR: A scooter rider was critically injured in a collision with a Maruti car in the Kangan area of Pulwama district in south Kashmir on Saturday. The injured person, whose identity was not immediately known, was shifted to hospital for treatment following the accident. Police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation []
Man injured in bear attack in Doda
Doda, Nov 14: A 65-year-old man was injured after being attacked by a bear in the Bharowah area of Bhaderwah tehsil in Doda district on Saturday, officials said. An official said that the man sustained injuries after he was attacked by a wild bear in Bhaderwah, Doda. He was shifted to Government Medical College (GMC) Doda for treatment. The injured man was later identified as Abdul Kareem (65), a resident of Bharowah Seri. Meanwhile, cognisance of the incident has been taken, while further details are awaited.(KNO)
Jammu, Nov 14: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today attended the first-ever convocation of Cluster University of Jammu at Abhinav Theatre here, describing the institution as a bold educational experiment conceived to bring together the regions strongest academic traditions and modernise higher education. Governor of Tamil Nadu Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar attended the convocation as the Chief Guest, while Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also Chancellor of the University, presided over the occasion. Minister for Higher Education Shamim Firdous; Member of Parliament, Jammu, Jugal Kishore Sharma; MLA Jammu West, Arvind Gupta; and Vice-Chancellor Cluster University Jammu, Professor K.S. Chandrasekhar were also present. Congratulating the graduating students and gold medallists, the Chief Minister described them as pioneers whose achievements would lay the foundation for future generations. He also acknowledged the contribution and sacrifices of parents, families and teachers in shaping the academic journeys of the graduates. Highlighting the distinctive character of Cluster University of Jammu, Omar Abdullah, who was a special guest on the occasion, said the institution was conceived as a collegiate federation bringing together five established institutionsGGM Science College, MAM College, SPMR College of Commerce, Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, and Government College of Education. He said the concept of pooling academic resources, faculty, libraries and laboratories while encouraging multidisciplinary learning had helped create a collaborative model of higher education. Referring to the Universitys placement in the 151200 band of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), he described it as an encouraging achievement. The Chief Minister, however, stressed the need for sustained investment in common infrastructure, digital connectivity, modern laboratories and hostel facilities, particularly for students from far-flung areas such as Poonch, Rajouri, Doda and Kishtwar. He also emphasised the importance of timely academic calendars and examination cycles, asserting that no student should lose an academic year waiting for examinations or the award of a degree. My government is committed to providing our universities with the necessary institutional support, academic autonomy, faculty strength and infrastructure to enable them to become genuine centres of knowledge, innovation and regional problem-solving, he said. Addressing the graduating students, the Chief Minister said rapid technological changes, particularly the emergence of artificial intelligence, had transformed the employment landscape, making continuous learning, critical thinking, judgement and empathy increasingly important. He urged young graduates to look beyond conventional career paths and explore entrepreneurship and emerging economic opportunities, observing that government employment alone could not absorb every graduate. Sustainable prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir will come when our youth move beyond being exclusively job seekers and become value creators, innovators and entrepreneurs, he said. Identifying agribusiness and food processing, sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, renewable energy, disaster resilience and the digital economy as sectors with significant potential, the Chief Minister called upon graduates to leverage their academic knowledge to develop enterprises and generate employment. He pointed out that Jammu and Kashmirs agricultural produce, including basmati rice, Bhaderwah rajmash, saffron, walnuts, kaladi and citrus fruits, offered considerable scope for value addition, branding and access to wider markets. Similarly, he said, graduates could explore opportunities in heritage tourism, eco-tourism, digital media, renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure and technology-enabled services. The Chief Minister said his government was determined to support young entrepreneurs by strengthening the start-up ecosystem, simplifying clearances and improving access to credit. Emphasising the importance of character and social responsibility, Omar Abdullah urged graduates to remain lifelong learners, respect the dignity of labour, uphold integrity, stay connected with their communities and prioritise their mental and physical well-being. He also called upon them to carry Jammu and Kashmirs pluralistic cultural ethos and heritage wherever their professional journeys took them, while contributing their skills, experience and ideas towards the development of their home region. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the first graduating batches of Cluster University of Jammu would make meaningful contributions to society and help shape the future of Jammu and Kashmir. Later, the Chief Minister, along with other dignitaries, presented medals and certificates to the graduating students.
Policeman injured after service rifle accidentally goes off in Anantnag
Anantnag, Nov 14: A policeman sustained a gunshot injury after his service rifle accidentally went off at Police Post Bijbehara in south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Saturday, officials said. An official said that the policeman was cleaning his service rifle when it accidentally discharged, leaving him injured. He said the cop sustained a bullet wound to his leg and was immediately shifted to Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag for treatment, where his condition was stated to be stable. The injured policeman was identified as Mohammad Abbas, a Constable (General Duty). Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident.(KNO)
South Kashmir: Police Attach House, 17 Kanals of Land Worth Rs 13.05 Crore Under NDPS Act
SRINAGAR: Police in south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Saturday attached immovable properties worth Rs 13.05 crore belonging to an alleged drug peddler in Bijbehara under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The attachment was carried out by Police Station Bijbehara against Ab Gani Dar, son of Ali Mohd Dar, a resident of Tulkhun, []
Intensify counter-insurgency ops across Kashmir to neutralise terrorists, support networks: CRPF DG
SRINAGAR: CRPF Director General (DG) G P Singh on Saturday directed the force to intensify counter-insurgency operations across Kashmir, strengthen the security grid, and maintain heightened operational readiness to neutralise terrorists and their support networks. Singh chaired an operational and security review meeting at Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Group Centre here, officials said. The []
Srinagar, Nov 14: MLA Uri Dr Sajjad Shafi and Rising Kashmir's senior reporter Idrees Bukhtiyar were bereaved on Saturday morning following the demise of their close relative, Ghulam Nabi Khawaja, 80, a resident of Garkote village in Uri. Khawaja, a retired government school headmaster, breathed his last after battling multiple organ infection. He had been undergoing treatment at SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, for the past three weeks. According to family sources, the deceased was the uncle of MLA Dr Sajjad Shafi and the paternal grand-uncle of Idrees Bukhtiyar. He was also the uncle of renowned radio broadcaster Maqsood Ahmad. He is survived by his sons, journalist Zaffer Iqbal and advocate Toseal Ahmad. Advocate Naveed Bukhtiyar is also among his close relatives. His demise has been mourned by family members, relatives and people from different walks of life. He was laid to rest at his ancestral graveyard in Garkote village of Uri.
Government Jobs Cannot Absorb Every Graduate, Says CM Omar Abdullah
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday called for sustained investment in higher education infrastructure, academic autonomy and faculty strength, while urging young graduates to explore entrepreneurship and emerging economic opportunities rather than relying exclusively on government jobs. Addressing the first-ever convocation of Cluster University of Jammu at Abhinav Theatre, the Chief Minister said the []
LG Sinha addresses first convocation of Cluster University of Jammu
Jammu, Nov 14: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha addressed the first convocation of Cluster University of Jammu today. He said the graduating students of this maiden convocation are the pioneering torchbearers of the universitys tradition, and congratulated all graduates, gold medallists and their parents. Honble Governor of Tamil Nadu, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar also graced the occasion. The Lieutenant Governor specially complimented the women students, noting that 130 of the 163 gold medals had been won by daughters. He observed that when given opportunities, daughters do not merely attain positions but redefine the meaning of achievement. He said their gold medals are badges of confidence for generations to come. Daughters across higher-education institutions in Jammu Kashmir are writing new chapters of success in their own names, the Lieutenant Governor said. He highlighted the intellectual heritage of Jammu Kashmir and noted that Maharishi Kalhana, author of the Rajatarangini, Maharishi Abhinavagupta, and the saint-poets Yogini Lalleshwari and Sheikh-ul-Alam, promoted harmony among faiths and the pursuit of truth. He said the graduates were carrying forward a tradition of knowledge more than a thousand years old. The Lieutenant Governor said India is witnessing a historic period of transformation and emerging as one of the worlds largest and fastest-growing major economies with the national resolve of building a developed India by 2047. He highlighted the country's digital public infrastructure, unprecedented growth in the space sector, research and innovation and rising investment in quantum technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, green energy and biotechnology. Building a developed India by 2047 is our national resolve. By then, many of you will be at the highest peaks of your careers. Therefore, a developed India is not a slogan for another generation; it will be the essence of your lifes achievements. It will be a symbol of the success of your tenure, and it will be the greatest pursuit and accomplishment of your lives, he said. The Lieutenant Governor said India now has nearly 223,000 startups and 135 unicorns, and that many founders come from small towns, reflecting a genuine democratisation of opportunity and entrepreneurship. Offering a fresh perspective on the demographic dividend, Lieutenant Governor said he preferred to call it a demographic responsibility. Society would benefit when youth connect farmers to markets, womens self-help groups become employment-generating enterprises, and engineers develop affordable medical tools for remote areas, he said. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the significance of humanities. Technology tells us what we can do, while the humanities teach us what we should do. The nation needs engineers as well as historians, and scientists as well as musicians. If we wish to strengthen the intellectual wealth and capability of society, we need scientists as well as musicians. For this, young generation must be prepared to struggle with unwavering courage. Turn crises into opportunities. This is what great personalities did, and the world remembers them today. I believe that talent has no fixed address, and greatness does not arrive after checking postal addresses of certain individual. Greatness seeks courage and struggle, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also offered three practical suggestions for internships. First, present a well-studied solution to a companys challenge rather than simply seeking an opportunity, strive to be so valuable that the team feels ones absence, and choose internships that teach something new. On artificial intelligence, he said the relationship between AI and humans would be one of partnership, not competition. He noted that AI will change the way we work, but determining the purpose of work will remain a human responsibility. The Lieutenant Governor also observed that AI can provide new answers based on old knowledge, but the courage to discover new questions will remain with human beings. AI will have speed and data, but humans will provide direction, compassion and the courage to ask new questions. AI should be guided by civilisational norms, values and accountability, and that its development should rest on human welfare, not just profit and productivity, he said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also gave five resolutions to the students. First, never stop learning, create opportunities rather than only seek them, uphold honesty and ethics, support those who follow, and express love for the nation through action. Your degree is not the end of your journey; it is a step to begin a new one. I believe that todays skills may become irrelevant ten years from now, but the habit of continuous learning will never become irrelevant. Therefore, make the pursuit of knowledge a permanent part of your nature. Knowledge without character is meaningless. Therefore, do not merely aim to be a topper, become individuals who have the courage to speak the truth, the resolve to do what is right, and who treat every human being with dignity and respect. The future awaits you. Move forward with courage. Give compassion and sensitivity a place in your heart. Take the light of knowledge into your hands and begin a new journey of life. I reiterate that technology will expand in the future, but the responsibility to give that future a new meaning will belong to human intelligence, to all youth, the Lieutenant Governor said. Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu, Prof. K. S. Chandrasekar presented the University report on the occasion Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah; Minister for School Education, Higher Education and Jal Shakti, Ms. Shamim Firdous; Registrar, Cluster University of Jammu, Ms Ankur Mahajan, HoDs, faculty members, students and their parents attended the convocation ceremony. Member of Parliament, Shri Jugal Kishore Sharma; Member of Legislative Assembly from Jammu West, Shri Arvind Gupta; Heads of various Educational Institutions, prominent citizens and senior officials of Civil and Police administration were also present.
Court-Martial Sentences Lieutenant to Dismissal Over Assault on Woman Officer in Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A Summary General Court Martial (SGCM) of the Army has sentenced a Lieutenant to dismissal from service after finding him guilty of assaulting a woman officer with the intention of outraging her modesty in Jammu and Kashmir. The verdict was delivered on November 11, following court-martial proceedings that began in August 2026 at a []
Cutting of Heritage Sweet Chestnut Trees at Kashmir University Sparks Protests
SRINAGAR: The alleged cutting of large branches of two century-old sweet chestnut trees on the University of Kashmir campus has triggered protests from environmental activists, with the Jammu and Kashmir Climate Action Group (JKCAG) demanding an inquiry, accountability and protection of the remaining trees. The trees, identified as Castanea sativa, are located near the universitys []
Class 3 student killed after portion of school wall collapses in Kupwara
Kupwara: A Class 3 student died after a portion of a school wall collapsed on her during the lunch break in Drugmulla area of north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Saturday, officials said. An official said that the girl was injured after a portion of the school wall collapsed and fell on her. She was immediately []
Traffic Resumes on Zojila Pass After Snow Clearance
SRINAGAR: Vehicular movement has resumed on the Zojila Pass along the Srinagar-Leh National Highway after the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) cleared accumulated snow from the high-altitude stretch, officials said on Saturday. Officials said personnel of the BROs 122 Road Construction Company carried out snow-clearance operations to restore the roads motorability and facilitate the resumption of []
LG Ladakh Inaugurates Pavilion Showcasing Region
SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena on Saturday inaugurated the Ladakh Pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, showcasing the regions traditional craftsmanship, indigenous products and cultural heritage. The pavilion features 14 stalls with the participation of 17 entrepreneurs from Ladakh, displaying a range of []
Minor Student Killed as School Wall Collapses in North Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A Class 3 student lost her life after a portion of a school wall collapsed on her during the lunch break in Drugmulla area of north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Saturday. Officials said that, the deceased was identified as Gaziya Parvaiz, daughter of Parvaiz Ahmad Najar. The girl sustained critical injuries after a portion []
Minister Sakina Itoo urges collective pledge to protect every child on children
Srinagar: 14: On occasion of Childrens Day, Minister for Health & Medical Education and Social Welfare, Sakina Masood Itoo on Saturday called upon society to take a collective pledge to safeguard the innocence, health, and aspirations of every child. Taking to microblogging site X, the minister post Behind every little smile lies a thousand dreams, []
Kulgam CRPF Attack: Over 500 Questioned, 20 Detained
Jammu, Nov 14: Security agencies have intensified their investigation into the November 11 terrorist attack on a CRPF patrol in Kulgam, questioning over 500 people and detaining at least 20 suspects to identify the local support network behind the strike. Investigators are focusing on a suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) module allegedly led by local operative Abdul [] The post Kulgam CRPF Attack: Over 500 Questioned, 20 Detained appeared first on Northlines .
Cluster of Block Sports Meet Concludes Successfully in Anantnag, Over 150 Youth Participate
Anantnag, Nov 14: Promoting sportsmanship, physical fitness and a drug-free lifestyle among young people, MY Bharat Anantnag successfully concluded a two-day Cluster of Block Sports Meet at Sports Stadium Bijbehara on November 14, organised as part of the 9th Week of the 100 Weeks Campaign under the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan. The two day sporting event, held on November 13 and 14, 2026, was organised under the inspiring theme Swasth Yuva Viksit Bharat by MY Bharat Anantnag, functioning under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. The initiative aimed at encouraging young people to adopt healthy lifestyles, participate in sports and contribute towards building a healthier, stronger and drug-free society. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 150 young participants, including MY Bharat Volunteers, Youth Club members and students from various educational institutions across the district. The participants displayed remarkable enthusiasm, sporting talent and team spirit throughout the competitions. A total of six sporting events were organised during the two-day programme, providing participants with an opportunity to showcase their abilities across different sporting disciplines. On the first day, a badminton competition for girls was held, witnessing active participation and competitive performances. The second day featured five sporting events, including Volleyball for Boys, Tug of War for Girls, Shot Put for Boys, a 100-Metre Race for Boys and Skipping Rope for Girls. The competitions created an atmosphere of excitement and healthy competition, with participants displaying determination, discipline and enthusiasm. The programme was organised with the broader objective of strengthening the sports culture at the grassroots level and providing young people with constructive platforms to showcase their abilities. It also highlighted the role of sports in developing confidence, leadership qualities, teamwork and discipline among youth. Addressing the gathering, the importance of engaging young people in positive activities and encouraging them to stay away from substance abuse was highlighted. The initiative also reflected the larger vision of the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan, which seeks to mobilise youth towards a healthier, more responsible and progressive society. The occasion was graced by international cricketer Mr. Parvez Rasool, who attended the programme as the Chief Guest. International footballer Mr. Mohammad Salah and Mr. Mohammad Shafi, Manager, Sports Council, attended as Guests of Honour. Their presence added significance to the sporting event, while their encouragement and interaction with the participating youth served as a source of motivation for aspiring sportspersons. The participation of prominent sports personalities also underlined the importance of sports in shaping the future of young people and inspiring them to pursue their goals with dedication. At the conclusion of the competitions, certificates and prizes were distributed among the winners and participants in recognition of their performances, enthusiasm and sporting spirit. The organisers appreciated the participation of the youth and acknowledged their efforts in making the two day event a success. The successful conclusion of the Cluster of Block Sports Meet reaffirmed MY Bharat Anantnags commitment to promoting youth engagement through sports, awareness programmes and community based initiatives. Such activities are expected to encourage greater participation in physical activities while providing young people with meaningful opportunities to contribute to society. Through initiatives like these, MY Bharat continues to work towards nurturing a generation of healthy, disciplined and empowered young citizens, in line with the vision of a Nasha Mukt and Viksit Bharat.
Congress pays tributes to Nehru on birth anniversary
New Delhi: Congress leaders on Saturday, November 14, paid rich tributes to Indias first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, with Rahul Gandhi describing him as a jewel and party chief Mallikarjun Kharge calling him the principal architect of modern India. Kharge and Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi visited Shanti Van to pay homage at his Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Women Bag 130 of 163 Gold Medals at Cluster University Jammu
SRINAGAR: Women students secured 130 of the 163 gold medals awarded at the first convocation of Cluster University of Jammu, which was addressed by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday. Glad to address the first convocation of Cluster University of Jammu. Of 163 gold medals, 130 went to our daughters, a historic achievement. I stressed []
Nighat Shafi Pandit calls for an end to extravagance at weddings
Srinagar, November 14: Prominent social activist and Chairperson HELP Foundation J&K, Nighat Shafi Pandit, has appealed to people to shun extravagance at weddings and promote simple, dignified and affordable marriages, saying lavish celebrations have become a serious financial and social burden, particularly for middle- and lower-income families. Supporting the genuine demands raised by civil society and the All Kashmir Waza Association regarding regulation of wedding timings and limiting the number of feasts, she expressed concern over excessive Wazwan arrangements, including massive 45 kg tramis and an unnecessarily large variety of dishes. Nighat Shafi urged religious leaders to educate people about the harmful social and economic consequences of extravagant weddings. She also called for a grassroots movement, a fixed protocol for wedding ceremonies, restrictions on the number of Wazwan dishes and standardisation of chefs' rates. She urged the J&K Administration and Divisional Commissioner Kashmir to formally enforce a strict Guest Control Order to curb unnecessary expenditure and food wastage, recalling the measures taken by late Mohammad Shafi Pandit, retired IAS officer, during his tenure as Divisional Commissioner Kashmir. She observed that the growing culture of lavish weddings often forces young men and women from economically weaker backgrounds to postpone marriage for years, while families face debt, mental stress and social stigma for being unable to afford grand receptions. Emphasising the need for social responsibility, she said that wasting large quantities of food at wedding feasts was unacceptable, particularly when many people continued to struggle to meet their basic nutritional needs. She appealed to society to make simplicity, dignity and affordability the guiding principles of marriage celebrations.
