LG Sinha Inaugurates Four Facilities at SKUAST-K, Sets Target of 100 Student-Led Start-ups
SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday inaugurated four infrastructure facilities at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), calling for greater use of technology, innovation and entrepreneurship to improve farmers incomes and strengthen the rural economy. He also set a target for the university to facilitate the establishment of at least []
Tragic Bus Accident in Pakistan Leaves One Dead and 47 Injured
A bus accident in Murree, Pakistan, resulted in one death and 47 injuries, highlighting ongoing road safety concerns in Punjab. Tragic Bus Accident in Pakistan Leaves One Dead and 47 Injured
Kashmir Wazas Set 10 pm Deadline for Serving Wazwan at Weddings
SRINAGAR: Kashmirs traditional chefs, popularly known as wazas, have unanimously decided to stop serving wazwan at weddings after 10 pm, citing long working hours, delayed arrival of grooms and inadequate arrangements for their rest. The decision was taken at a conference held at a marriage hall in Srinagar, where chefs discussed what they described as []
SRINAGAR: A 31-year-old man was found dead at his residence in the Pouni area of Reasi district on Wednesday, officials said. An official said that the man was found unconscious inside his house at Upper Bazar, Pouni. He was shifted to the Primary Health Centre (PHC), Pouni, where doctors declared him brought dead. Police have []
Mehbooba Mufti Condemns Attack on CRPF Personnel in Kulgam
Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti has strongly condemned the attack on Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. In a post on X, Mufti described the attack as unacceptable and said that such acts of violence deserve unequivocal condemnation. She also wished the injured CRPF personnel a speedy and complete recovery. There can be no place for violence in a society that yearns for lasting peace, stability and dignity, Mufti said in her message. Her remarks come amid renewed calls for peace and an end to violence in Jammu and Kashmir.
Is this Pakistan?: Conductor harasses couple for taking wrong bus
Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has suspended a bus conductor following a viral video wherein he is allegedly making communal remarks against two passengers who had mistakenly boarded the wrong bus. The incident reportedly took place on a KSRTC bus bearing registration number KA-42-F-2253, which was travelling towards Shivamogga. The two passengers, 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 .
Pakistan militant attack kills 10 policemen in KPK's Kohat, gunbattle still under way
LG Sinha Inaugurates Veshow Festival in Kulgam, Proposes Archive to Preserve Cultural Heritage
SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday inaugurated the Veshow Festival in south Kashmirs Kulgam district, describing it as a vibrant platform for ideas, creativity and cultural dialogue rooted in Jammu and Kashmirs Rishi-Sufi legacy. In a post on X, Sinha said the festival celebrates the regions rich traditions through literature, art, heritage and handicrafts. []
Pakistan: PTI lawyer warns Imran Khan could face serious health risks
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Nov 11 (IANS) Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan's lawyer Salman Safdar has said that former Pakistan Prime Minister could face a brain haemorrhage or heart attack if he is not provided timely medical treatment, local media reported on Wednesday. Speaking to reporters, Safdar said he had recently met Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, at the prison and told the court about their condition, leading Pakistani daily 'The Nation' reported. He urged the court to shift Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi to a hospital and set up an independent medical board to examine them. Safdar said that Imran Khan's blood pressure had reached 192 on November 1 and warned that he could face serious medical complications if proper treatment is not given. Safdar voiced concern over worsening eyesight of Bushra Bibi and said that her next surgery was scheduled for November 15. However, he said that she did not agree to undergo another procedure at the same hospital or under the supervision of her previous doctors. He raised question over taking Bushra Bibi to prison immediately after her first surgery while her eyes were still bandaged and called for detailed reports regarding her previous procedures. Last week, the core committee of PTI voiced fresh concerns over the health of Imran Khan, while urging the country's Chief Justice to ensure implementation of court orders about his treatment. The PTI core committee held a meeting after reports claimed that Imran Khan's blood pressure had reached 192. In a statement issued following the meeting, the committee voiced grave concern over Imran Khan's health, citing the alleged lack of medical facilities and not allowing him to meet his family and personal doctors, Pakistan's 'Dawn' reported. In a statement, the PTI core committee said, The core committee unanimously resolved that protecting Imran Khans health and life is an urgent humanitarian issue, and that any negligence, delay or irresponsibility in this regard is unacceptable. His health should be treated as a serious humanitarian and medical emergency rather than merely a political or legal dispute. It urged the government to allow Imran Khan to meet his personal physicians, make arrangements for necessary medical evaluation and conduct diagnostic tests of Imran Khan without delay and shift him to Shifa International Hospital for carrying out his medical examination. It urged Pakistan's Chief Justice to ensure implementation of orders about Imran Khan's treatment and give the matter immediate attention considering its exceptional humanitarian importance, Dawn reported. Imran Khan has remained in prison since August 2023 after convictions that his party has termed politically motivated. Since his ouster from office in 2022 through a no-confidence vote, Imran Khan has faced several cases, including allegations involving state gifts and an unlawful marriage case. Imran Khan's health has deteriorated during his prison sentence, drawing criticism from PTI members.
One killed, 47 others injured after bus overturns in Pakistan's Punjab
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Nov 11 (IANS) One person was killed and 47 others, including nine schoolchildren, were injured after a bus overturned due to brake failure in Murree in Pakistan's Punjab province, local media reported on Wednesday. The bus driver was killed in the accident near the Shawala area of Murree on Tuesday as the bus was on its way to Gujranwala, the Dawn reported. Murree police said that the accident took place when the bus was heading to Miyari and overturned after hitting a roadside pillar. After the accident was reported, Rescue 1122, district and traffic police officials reached the site of the incident and began a rescue operation to take the injured trapped in the bus to the hospital. Rescue teams and private vehicles took the injured people to the hospital. On November 5, 11 people were killed, and 33 others were injured after a passenger bus collided with a truck near Pakpattan in the province, local media reported. Rescue 1122 said that 11 people died in the collision between a truck and a passenger bus. It further mentioned that eight people suffered minor injuries, while 25 others were taken to the hospital in Pakpattan, Dawn reported. The accident took place on Depalpur Road when a passenger bus was heading from Multan to Kasur, and a truck was coming in the opposite direction, according to the district administration's press release. The rescue operation conducted for three hours involved cranes and other heavy machinery to extract people trapped in the wreckage. As many as 464 people were killed, and 23,543 others were seriously injured in 44,797 road accidents in Pakistan's Punjab province in October. Nearly three-quarters of the road accidents involved motorcycles, local media reported, citing rescue authorities. The statistics were shared during a monthly review of the emergency operational performance of Rescue 1122 districts in Punjab. Rescue teams responded to 231,056 emergencies and saved 233,210 people during October, according to the department, The Express Tribune reported. The incidents involved road accidents, fires, medical emergencies, drowning incidents and other rescue operations. The department reported 1,726 fire emergencies and 94 drowning incidents in Punjab during October. The highest number of road crashes in Punjab were reported in Lahore, with 7,874 incidents involving motorcycles. As many as 2,838 accidents involving 3,312 motorcycles were reported in Multan, while Faisalabad reported 2,615 crashes involving 2,896 motorcycles. As many as 2,092 accidents, involving 2,250 motorcycles, were reported in Gujranwala, followed by Sheikhupura, which reported 1,714 road accidents involving 1,706 motorcycles. As many as 142 accidents, involving 160 motorcycles, were reported in Taunsa Sharif.
Pakistan's Diwali Pollution Claim Backfires As Its Own Agency Points To 16,714 Farm Fires
A Pakistani air quality body has found no evidence linking Lahore's post-Diwali smog to fireworks in India, pointing instead to thousands of crop-residue fires in Pakistan's own Punjab.
Srinagar, Nov 11: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today inaugurated 4 key infrastructure facilities at SKUAST-Kashmir and emphasised the crucial role of agricultural universities in delivering practical solutions to challenges related to food security, sustainable agriculture and rural development. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said that agricultural universities are unique institutions where concerns and aspirations linked to a nations food security can be transformed into concrete solutions. He noted that the four facilities inaugurated today collectively reflect a comprehensive vision of smart agriculture and rural advancement. The Lieutenant Governor inaugurated a solar-powered Internet of Things (IoT)-based irrigation and fertigation system, designed to provide crops with water and nutrients in the right quantity and at the right time. He observed that the technology has significant potential to benefit small and marginal farmers by reducing labour-intensive irrigation practices and dependence on conventional energy sources. The Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated the Prototype Design and Development Centre, which will help translate innovative concepts into practical agricultural tools and technologies. He expressed confidence that the facility would promote mechanisation and bridge the gap between laboratory research and field-level application. Highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship, the Lieutenant Governor described the newly established Directorate of Innovation and Entrepreneurship as a transformative initiative. He encouraged students to become job creators by establishing enterprises in areas such as seed testing, cold-chain management and soil health services. He asked the university to develop the directorate into a platform that provides mentoring, guidance and assistance in accessing capital for young entrepreneurs across Jammu Kashmir. The Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated the Health and Wellness Centre, describing it as an important addition to the universitys infrastructure for the well-being of students and faculty members. Calling for sustained action, the Lieutenant Governor asked SKUAST-Kashmir to take the new irrigation technology to villages within the coming year and actively involve farmers in its improvement. He stressed the need to convert data collected through sensors into simple agricultural advisories in local languages and deliver them to farmers through digital platforms. The Lieutenant Governor further encouraged the university to facilitate the establishment of at least 100 student-led startups, strengthen linkages among laboratories, cooperative societies, farmer-producer organisations and farmers, and place youth and women farmers at the centre of future programmes. We must make data and technology partners of the farmer. Our goal should be to establish at least 100 student-led enterprises and startups from the SKUAST-Kashmir campus within the coming year. The University must become a strong bridge between laboratories and cooperative societies, between farmer-producer organisations, and between researchers and small and marginal farmers. I want youth and women farmers to be at the centre of every programme, he said. Emphasising the growing challenges posed by climate change, the Lieutenant Governor called upon the university to make sustainable development and environmental stewardship central to its identity. He underlined that the true measure of progress lies in improving farmers incomes, strengthening their economic security and expanding opportunities in rural areas. The identity of Jammu Kashmir lies in its hardworking farmers, artisans, and its rich traditions of agriculture, horticulture, and handicrafts. HADP's projects and farmer-centric policies in the past 6 years have played an important role in strengthening Jammu Kashmirs rural economy and creating new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship among youth. The real success of any modern technology or modern tools will come only when their benefits reach the small farmers in villages and bring about a real increase in their incomes. I believe that the greatest test of any change is how much positive difference it makes in a farmers life. The true measure of our progress should be the rising income of farmers, their economic security, a better future for their families, and the new opportunities emerging in rural areas, he said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor released a coffee table book highlighting the achievements and institutional journey of SKUAST-Kashmir. A Multi-Tier Data Management and Accreditation Workflow System, aimed at strengthening institutional data management and accreditation-related processes was also launched. Shri Javid Ahmad Dar, Minister for Agriculture Production, Finance, Mining and Cooperatives; Prof. Nazir Ahmed Ganai, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Kashmir; Prof Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, Director, SKIMS; Shri Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Prof Azmat Alam Khan, Registrar SKUAST-K, HoDs, senior officials, faculty members and students attended the inaugural ceremony.
Postpone LAHDC Polls Due to Harsh Winter: Ladakh MP Writes to Home Minister
SRINAGAR : Ladakh MP Mohmad Haneefa has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to postpone the forthcoming elections to the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs), citing harsh winter conditions, large-scale seasonal migration and insufficient time for revision of electoral rolls. In a letter dated November 11, Haneefa said the proposed election schedule did not []
Ladakh MP Seeks BEd Examination Centre in Kargil
SRINAGAR: Ladakh MP Mohmad Haneefa has urged the University of Kashmir to establish an examination centre in Kargil for 14 serving teachers pursuing B.Ed through distance mode, citing difficulties in travelling to Srinagar and obtaining extended leave from their schools. In a letter dated October 26, 2026, addressed to the Controller of Examinations, University of []
MLA Sajjad Shaheen Lays Foundation Stones for Two Roads Worth Rs 35 Crore in Gool
Srinagar, Nov 11: In a major push towards strengthening road connectivity in the remote and far-flung areas of BanihalGool Assembly Constituency, MLA Banihal Sajjad Shaheen today laid the foundation stones of two major road projects in Gool Sub-Division, involving a combined estimated cost of approximately 35 crore. The two projects include construction and maintenance of the KalimastaAstanmarg road via High School Gagra in Block Gund Dharam, at an estimated cost of 24.50 crore, and the road from near High School Dachan to Bass in Block Gool, costing 10.46 crore. The projects are expected to provide much-needed relief to residents of these geographically challenging areas, who have long faced difficulties due to inadequate road connectivity. Upon completion, the roads will improve accessibility, facilitate transportation of people and essential commodities and provide better access to educational institutions, healthcare facilities and other basic services. Speaking on the occasion, Shaheen said that road connectivity is not merely about constructing roads but about connecting people with opportunities, essential services and the mainstream of development. He said that improving infrastructure in remote and mountainous habitations has remained one of his foremost priorities since assuming office. Referring to the developmental initiatives undertaken during the last two years, the MLA said that sustained efforts have been made to accelerate infrastructure development across BanihalGool, particularly in areas which had remained neglected for decades. He said that nearly 52 new road projects and close to two dozen bridges have been sanctioned during the last one-and-a-half years, representing a significant intervention towards addressing the long-pending connectivity requirements of the constituency. Several road projects have also been taken up for execution, while a number of bridges have been sanctioned under different development programmes. He said that important road projects have been initiated across different parts of the constituency, including the NachlanaTalab road, involving an estimated cost of 7.33 crore, besides several other road projects in Banihal, Gool, Khari, Pogal and adjoining areas. Foundation stones have also been laid for major road works and bridge projects to improve connectivity between remote habitations. Highlighting the initiatives in the education sector, Shaheen said that considerable attention has been given to strengthening school infrastructure. Around 52 Higher Secondary and High Schools across the constituency have been provided with digital smart boards to improve teaching and learning facilities. Besides, 36 additional developmental works, involving an estimated expenditure of 7.50 crore under CAPEX 202627 and the CAS component, have recently been approved for the upgradation of school infrastructure. These include new school buildings, additional classrooms, office accommodation, toilet complexes and boundary walls. He said that the approval of these works reflects the government's commitment to improving educational infrastructure, particularly in rural and far-flung areas. He also referred to the historic initiative for establishing a University Campus in District Ramban, which will create greater opportunities for students from the district. On the healthcare front, the MLA said that efforts are underway to strengthen existing health institutions and improve healthcare delivery. These include infrastructure improvements at SDH Banihal and other health facilities, the foundation laying of a new PHC building at Sangaldan involving an estimated cost of 2.50 crore, and the introduction of a 52 lakh Mobile Medical Unit to improve healthcare outreach in underserved areas. He said that further improvements in healthcare infrastructure, including enhanced diagnostic facilities and dialysis services, remain among his priorities. Regarding the power sector, Shaheen said that augmentation of the Banihal Receiving Station from 6.3 MVA to 10.6 MVA and Sangaldan Receiving Station from 3.15 MVA to 6.3 MVA has significantly strengthened the power distribution infrastructure. The augmentation of the Khari Receiving Station from 3.15 MVA to 6.3 MVA is also being pursued. He said that additional measures are being taken to improve electricity supply and address the recurring power-related problems faced by consumers. The MLA further highlighted initiatives in tourism and public infrastructure, stating that concerted efforts are being made to develop the untapped tourism potential of BanihalGool. Foundation stones have been laid for two eco-parks at Narsingha and Dungali in Gool, involving a combined cost of 70 lakh. Development and beautification works at Goda Gali Park, estimated at around 1.25 crore, are also underway, while work has been taken up at Dubawn Park in Banihal. Other tourism-related initiatives include the development of Tatapani, besides proposals for parks and recreational facilities at different locations across the constituency. He said that development of tourist destinations, including natural springs, parks and scenic locations, would not only improve public amenities but also create employment opportunities and provide a boost to the local economy. Referring to urban development, Shaheen said that tenders have been floated for 56 development works involving approximately 1.95 crore in Municipal Committee Banihal, covering all seven municipal wards. These include important public utility and beautification projects, such as a double-storey public toilet complex and the development and beautification of Shafapani Spring. He reiterated that his approach to development is based on equitable distribution of resources and ensuring that remote habitations receive due attention. He said that efforts are being made to take development beyond major towns and extend essential infrastructure to every block, tehsil and village of the constituency. Shaheen also urged the executing agencies to maintain strict quality standards and ensure timely completion of all ongoing projects, adding that public money must translate into tangible benefits for the people. The MLA expressed his gratitude to Hon'ble Chief Minister Jenab Omar Abdullah Sahib for his continued support and cooperation in addressing the developmental requirements of BanihalGool. He also acknowledged the support of the concerned ministers, departments and officers in facilitating the sanctioning and implementation of various development projects. Former DDC Chairperson Dr. Shamshada Shan, former DDC Councillor Sakhi Mohammad Choudhary, former BDC Chairperson Shakeela Begum, Zonal Vice President Gulzar Ahmed Shan, Block Presidents Ahmadullah Naik, Jan Mohammad Chandail, Mohd Afzal Giri, Gulzar Manhas, Choudhary Tahir and several other party functionaries, local representatives and residents were present on the occasion.
Srinagar, Nov 11: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today inaugurated 4 key infrastructure facilities at SKUAST-Kashmir and emphasised the crucial role of agricultural universities in delivering practical solutions to challenges related to food security, sustainable agriculture and rural development. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said that agricultural universities are unique institutions where concerns and aspirations linked to a nations food security can be transformed into concrete solutions. He noted that the four facilities inaugurated today collectively reflect a comprehensive vision of smart agriculture and rural advancement. The Lieutenant Governor inaugurated a solar-powered Internet of Things (IoT)-based irrigation and fertigation system, designed to provide crops with water and nutrients in the right quantity and at the right time. He observed that the technology has significant potential to benefit small and marginal farmers by reducing labour-intensive irrigation practices and dependence on conventional energy sources. The Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated the Prototype Design and Development Centre, which will help translate innovative concepts into practical agricultural tools and technologies. He expressed confidence that the facility would promote mechanisation and bridge the gap between laboratory research and field-level application. Highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship, the Lieutenant Governor described the newly established Directorate of Innovation and Entrepreneurship as a transformative initiative. He encouraged students to become job creators by establishing enterprises in areas such as seed testing, cold-chain management and soil health services. He asked the university to develop the directorate into a platform that provides mentoring, guidance and assistance in accessing capital for young entrepreneurs across Jammu Kashmir. The Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated the Health and Wellness Centre, describing it as an important addition to the universitys infrastructure for the well-being of students and faculty members. Calling for sustained action, the Lieutenant Governor asked SKUAST-Kashmir to take the new irrigation technology to villages within the coming year and actively involve farmers in its improvement. He stressed the need to convert data collected through sensors into simple agricultural advisories in local languages and deliver them to farmers through digital platforms. The Lieutenant Governor further encouraged the university to facilitate the establishment of at least 100 student-led startups, strengthen linkages among laboratories, cooperative societies, farmer-producer organisations and farmers, and place youth and women farmers at the centre of future programmes. We must make data and technology partners of the farmer. Our goal should be to establish at least 100 student-led enterprises and startups from the SKUAST-Kashmir campus within the coming year. The University must become a strong bridge between laboratories and cooperative societies, between farmer-producer organisations, and between researchers and small and marginal farmers. I want youth and women farmers to be at the centre of every programme, he said. Emphasising the growing challenges posed by climate change, the Lieutenant Governor called upon the university to make sustainable development and environmental stewardship central to its identity. He underlined that the true measure of progress lies in improving farmers incomes, strengthening their economic security and expanding opportunities in rural areas. The identity of Jammu Kashmir lies in its hardworking farmers, artisans, and its rich traditions of agriculture, horticulture, and handicrafts. HADP's projects and farmer-centric policies in the past 6 years have played an important role in strengthening Jammu Kashmirs rural economy and creating new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship among youth. The real success of any modern technology or modern tools will come only when their benefits reach the small farmers in villages and bring about a real increase in their incomes.I believe that the greatest test of any change is how much positive difference it makes in a farmers life. The true measure of our progress should be the rising income of farmers, their economic security, a better future for their families, and the new opportunities emerging in rural areas, he said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor released a coffee table book highlighting the achievements and institutional journey of SKUAST-Kashmir. A Multi-Tier Data Management and Accreditation Workflow System, aimed at strengthening institutional data management and accreditation-related processes was also launched. Javid Ahmad Dar, Minister for Agriculture Production, Finance, Mining and Cooperatives; Prof. Nazir Ahmed Ganai, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Kashmir; Prof Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, Director, SKIMS; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Prof Azmat Alam Khan, Registrar SKUAST-K, HoDs, senior officials, faculty members and students attended the inaugural ceremony.
Ladakh CEO Bans Political Protests, Dharnas in Leh and Kargil During Municipal Polls
SRINAGAR: The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Ladakh has prohibited political parties, candidates and their supporters from organising dharnas, protests, demonstrations, sit-ins, hunger strikes and rallies within the municipal limits of Leh and Kargil during the Model Code of Conduct period for the upcoming municipal elections. An order issued by Chief Electoral Officer Rahul Sharma, []
South Kashmir: Militant Attack Leaves Three CRPF Personnel Injured, Area Cordoned Off
SRINAGAR: Three CRPF personnel of the 46th Battalion were injured in a militant attack at Nowpora Akhran in south Kashmirs Kulgam district on Wednesday afternoon. Sources said the injured personnel have been identified as HC/GD Somveer, CT/GD Santano and CT/GD Rakesh Das. All three sustained bullet injuries. One was wounded in the leg, another in []
Two CRPF personnel injured after unidentified assailants opened fire in South Kashmir's Kulgam
Kulgam, Nov 11 : Two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were injured after unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants opened fire on security personnel deployed at a checkpoint in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday afternoon, CRPF officials said. The incident took place at around 2:15 pm when the assailants fired at the CRPF personnel before fleeing the spot. The injured personnel were shifted to a hospital in Anantnag district for treatment. Further details into the incident are awaited. Last month in Chhattisgarh, four CRPF officers were injured in an IED blast while defusing residual explosives at Alarmedgu camp in Sukma district. The officers belonged to the Ammunition Technician Team (ATT) of the 50th Battalion CRPF. Their mission was to inspect various CRPF camps within the Konta Range, including Pidmel, Dabbakonta, Kolaiguda and Alarmedgu, and safely dispose of unserviceable or residual explosives stored in the area. The team was carrying out the explosive disposal process when a fragment of an explosive or a bomb accidentally detonated in the area, resulting in injuries to the CRPF officers. The following officers sustained injuries in the unforeseen accident: ASI MK Tiwari, ASI Anish Khan, Inspector Amarnath Mishra and Head Constable Kuldeep Raj. Following the incident, all four injured personnel were administered first aid and swiftly transported to the Government Hospital in Konta, where they received appropriate medical care. (ANI)
Terrorists Open Fire on CRPF Party in South Kashmirs Kulgam
Kulgam, Nov 11 : Panic gripped parts of South Kashmirs Kulgam district on Wednesday after terrorists opened fire on a CRPF party, officials said. A senior police officer told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that terrorists fired upon CRPF personnel in the district. He said the circumstances surrounding the incident are being verified, while further details are being collected. Meanwhile, the area has been cordoned off and a search operation has been launched to trace the attackers(KNO) Further details are awaited.
11 students among 13 injured as school bus turns turtle in Pulwamas Rajpora
Pulwama, Nov 11: At least 13 people, including 11 students and two teachers, were injured after a school bus overturned in the Drabgam area of Rajpora in South Kashmirs Pulwama district on Wednesday. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that a school bus met with an accident in Drabgam, leaving 13 people injured, including 11 students and two teachers. He said all the injured were initially shifted to CHC Rajpora, from where some were referred to District Hospital Pulwama for further treatment. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, KK Sidha, said all the injured were stable. He added that two students were referred to SMHS Hospital, while one each was shifted to SKIMS Soura and Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital, Srinagar. Police have taken cognizance of the incident.
Pakistan's Own Agency Busts Its 'Diwali Firework' Pollution Theory As AQI Crosses 600
The Pakistan report said the available evidence did not support attributing Lahore's poor air quality after Diwali to fireworks across the border.
No Wazwan Service If Groom Arrives After 10 PM, Announces All Kashmir Waza Association
Srinagar, Nov 11: In a move aimed at discouraging late-night wedding ceremonies, the All Kashmir Waza Association has announced that it will not serve Wazwan at weddings where the groom arrives after 10 pm. Association President Ghulam Nabi Baba said the decision was taken to address the growing practice of delayed groom arrivals, with some weddings witnessing grooms reaching venues as late as 3 am or 4 am. He said the practice creates difficulties for Wazas (traditional Kashmiri chefs) and several other people involved in wedding arrangements, who are often forced to wait for hours to serve the traditional feast. Baba said it was high time society put an end to this growing social practice and urged people to ensure timely arrival of grooms so that wedding functions do not cause unnecessary hardship to those involved in the arrangements.
The obscure records Pakistan didn
Talk about a collective inability to convert to three figures... The post The obscure records Pakistan didnt break despite their slew of half-centuries in Rawalpindi appeared first on Cricket365 .
LG Manoj Sinhas Big Roadmap for Youth Startups and Jobs in J&K
Become job creators, not just job seekers: LG Sinha to Agriculture Students
Srinagar, Nov 11 : Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday urged students of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) to venture into entrepreneurship, saying their initiatives should not only secure their own livelihoods but also create employment opportunities for other youth across Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing students during the inauguration of various infrastructure facilities at SKUAST-K, the LG Sinha as per the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), expressed confidence that students would take prototype concepts forward and develop practical solutions tailored to farmers needs, bringing recognition to Jammu and Kashmir at the national and international levels. Acknowledging that agricultural science graduates traditionally had limited career opportunities, Sinha said SKUAST-K had undergone significant transformation in recent years. He urged the newly established Directorate to provide students with an enabling platform to establish their own ventures. Encouraging students to explore opportunities in areas such as seed testing, cold-chain-based startups and smart healthcare services, the LG said such initiatives would help young graduates become self-reliant while creating employment opportunities for others. This initiative will open avenues for others to earn their livelihood, he said. LG Sinha said SKUAST-K students were committed to translating their ideas into practical solutions for the welfare of farmers. If we have to see a future-ready Jammu and Kashmir, the contribution of the UT is very important and I believe that SKUAST-K is carrying out its responsibility very well towards building a future-ready university and future-ready agriculture, he said. I believe that we can find solutions to any challenge and difficulty of any country in an agricultural university, the LG added.(KNO)
Farooq & Omar Abdullah Step In: Are NC's Internal Rifts Settled? Minister Javed Dar Breaks Silence
Short: Kulgam gears up for 3-day Veshow Festival 2026
Short: El Nio threatens to dull Kashmirs winter
Short: All schools must use JKBOSE books: DSEK
Short: Fresh snowfall in Peer Ki Gali, Gurez; Mughal Road closed ahead of major snow spell in J&K
Become job creators, not just job seekers: LG Sinha to Agri-Students
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday urged students of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) to venture into entrepreneurship, saying their initiatives should not only secure their own livelihoods but also create employment opportunities for other youth across Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing students during the inauguration of various infrastructure facilities []
J&K govt working on plan to revive saffron mission: Minister Javid Dar
Srinagar, Nov 11: Jammu and Kashmir Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar on Wednesday acknowledged shortcomings in the implementation of the saffron development mission, saying the government was working on a revival plan under the Jammu and Kashmir Saffron and Integrated Production Programme (JK-SIPP). Admitting that the earlier mission had not been implemented as envisaged, Dar said the government was identifying areas for intervention and consulting senior scientists from the Agriculture Department and the concerned university to improve saffron cultivation. It is true that the mission was not carried out as it should have been. There are several problems, and I would not like to go into the details, minsiter Dar told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS). He said limited landholdings among farmers and difficulties in managing agricultural activities had posed challenges to the implementation of the mission. The minister said the government was planning to take up the matter with the concerned MLA before formulating a comprehensive policy to address the issues affecting saffron growers. We are trying to rejuvenate it under JK-SIPP. We have identified some areas under the programme and are making efforts to improve the situation, he said. Minister Dar said consultations were also being held with senior scientists and experts to ensure that the revival efforts were based on scientific inputs and modern technology. On agricultural research and innovation, the minister said the government was providing adequate financial support to the Agriculture Department and the university to promote research and introduce modern technologies for farmers. He said special camps were being organised to familiarise farmers with new agricultural innovations and ensure that research conducted by institutions translated into benefits at the grassroots level. Highlighting the university's achievements, minister Dar said its patents had received international recognition and its research performance and ranking had improved considerably over the past four to five years. He said the achievements of the institution deserved appreciation, adding that the government was committed to strengthening agricultural research. Regarding the demand for farm mechanisation, Dar said the government had received considerable applications from farmers and was working to meet the demand through available schemes. He said a five-year scheme was being implemented to achieve the targets in the sector. On reports of differences within the National Conference, Dar dismissed speculation about an internal crisis, asserting that the party remained strong. He said senior party leaders, including Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, had held discussions with legislators, adding that political differences should not be interpreted as signs of a party crisis. Dar said the government, legislators and the public needed to work together to address the issues confronting Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)
Only the second time in 149 years! Pakistan script history in Sri Lanka Test
Pakistan's Test team achieved a significant milestone with three debutants scoring half-centuries in the first innings. Tayyab Arif, Mohammad Taha, and Arafat Minhas all made impressive contributions while helping the team build a commanding total. Saqib Khan also made his mark by taking two early wickets, strengthening Pakistan's bowling attack. Sri Lanka struggled initially, but an unbeaten partnership offers them some hope.
Dhananjaya makes it Sri Lanka's morning as Pakistan search for wickets
Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis added 90 for the fourth wicket, and Dhananjaya has since added 60 for the unbroken fifth wicket with Kusal Mendis
LG Manoj Sinha Forms Committee to Probe Nehru Market Warehouse Fire, Seeks Report in 15 Days
Srinagar, Nov 11: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha has formed an inquiry committee, comprising the Inspector General, Jammu, Sh. Tejinder Singh, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Sh. Vikas Kundal, to ascertain the cause and circumstances of the fire incident at the Warehouse, Nehru Market on 08.11.2026. The committee is directed to probe any lapses or negligence, fix responsibility, and submit its report within 15 days.
Pakistan's jailed former PM Imran Khan taken to hospital for eye treatment
Islamabad, Nov 11: Pakistans incarcerated former prime minister Imran Khan was taken to a government hospital for treatment of his eye condition, a media report said on Wednesday. The 74-year-old founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has been incarcerated since 2023 and faces more than 100 cases, including corruption and charges related to inciting violence. He is lodged at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. Khan has been undergoing treatment for his right eye since January this year after he complained of vision loss. Khan was brought to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for tests and follow-up treatment for his eye condition, Dawn reported, quoting a hospital official. Imran Ahmed Khan Niazi was brought from Adiala jail in Rawalpindi to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad during the night between November 10 and 11, 2026, for a medical check-up and follow-up eye treatment on the advice of his treating ophthalmologist, a PIMS official said. The hospital official added that, prior to the procedure, the former premier underwent a medical examination, including an ocular assessment. His vital parameters were found to be normal. He was clinically stable, and his general physical examination was unremarkable. After obtaining informed consent and following standard monitoring procedures, precautionary measures and clinical protocols, the ophthalmology team administered an intravitreal anti-VEGF injection, the official said. He remained clinically stable before, during and after the procedure. He was discharged at around 2:30 am with the necessary instructions for further care and follow-up, he said. Khan's party PTI and his family insisted that he should be shifted to a private hospital for treatment, the government official insisted that his eyesight improved after treatment at the government facility. The Supreme Court had ordered on August 18 to shift Khan to a private hospital for treatment, but he was instead taken to PIMS and returned to jail after various medical tests at the hospital. Khan became prime minister in 2018 but lost the top job after a no-confidence vote in 2022.
LG Sinha constitutes inquiry committee to probe Nehru Market warehouse fire
Jammu: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has constituted a two-member committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire incident at a warehouse in Nehru Market, Jammu, on November 8. As per details ,the committee comprises Inspector General of Police, Jammu, Tejinder Singh, and Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Vikas Kundal. The committee has been tasked with ascertaining the []
MeT Predicts Widespread Rain, Snow In J
Srinagar: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar on Wednesday issued a fresh weather forecast for Jammu and Kashmir, predicting light to moderate rain and snowfall across most parts of the Union Territory on November 12 and 13. An official of MeT said that as per the forecast, November 11 will remain generally dry with a brief spell []
Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan back in jail after medical treatment, sources say
The cricketer-turned-politician has faced multiple
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Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan back in jail after medical treatment, sources say
Imran Khan had an eye check-up at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, one of the officials said
Students injured as school bus veers off road, overturns in Sopore
Sopore: Several students sustained injuries after a school bus veered off the road and overturned at Saidpora Bypass in Sopore on Wednesday morning, officials said. An official said that several students were injured after the school bus they were travelling in overturned at Saidpora Bypass in Sopore. He said the students were soon shifted to []
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Several Students Injured as School Bus Overturns in Sopore
SRINAGAR: Several students sustained injuries after a school bus veered off the road and overturned at Saidpora Bypass in Sopore on Wednesday morning, officials said. An official said that several students were injured after the school bus they were travelling in overturned at Saidpora Bypass in Sopore. He said the students were soon shifted to []
Pakistan's Diwali fireworks theory on Lahore smog busted by its own agency
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Fresh snowfall in Peer Ki Gali, Gurez; Mughal Road closed ahead of major snow spell in J&K
Srinagar, Nov 11 : Fresh snowfall was reported at Peer Ki Gali along the Mughal Road and in Gurez Valley on Wednesday, prompting authorities to suspend traffic on the strategic road and restrict tourist movement in vulnerable areas ahead of a major spell of rain and snowfall forecast across Jammu and Kashmir from November 12 to 14. Officials said the Mughal Road, which connects south Kashmir with Rajouri and Poonch districts, was closed for vehicular movement following light rain and snowfall in the Peer Ki Gali area. Deputy Superintendent of Police Traffic, Rajouri-Poonch Range, Ajaz Ahmed Choudhury, said the closure was ordered as a precautionary measure due to slippery road conditions. Commuters have been advised to avoid travelling on the route until further clearance and remain in touch with traffic control rooms for updates. Gurez Valley in north Kashmir also received fresh snowfall, covering parts of the area in a white blanket, as the district administration had already advised tourists against visiting the valley in view of the impending weather conditions. The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast widespread rainfall in the plains and moderate to heavy snowfall in higher reaches during the three-day period, with some mountainous areas likely to receive one to two feet of snow. Speaking to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) Director Meteorological Centre Srinagar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, said an initial Western Disturbance was bringing light precipitation over isolated higher reaches, while the main weather activity was expected to begin in the early hours of November 12 and continue till the morning of November 14. This is a significant weather system. While rainfall will dominate in the plains, we expect moderate snowfall across tourist places, marking the season's first snowfall in Doodhpathri, Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg, Ahmad said. He said higher reaches and mountain passes, including Peer Ki Gali, Sinthan Top, Zojila, Razdan Pass, Sadhna Top and Margan Pass, were likely to receive heavy snowfall, with accumulations of one to two feet possible at some locations. The department has also indicated a 50 per cent possibility of light snowfall or mixed precipitation over the plains of Shopian, Kulgam, Kupwara, Bandipora and adjoining areas. In view of the forecast, the Bandipora district administration has temporarily prohibited tourists from visiting Gurez Valley and asked those already staying there to plan their departure immediately in coordination with the District Control Room. Candidates scheduled to appear in the Accounts Assistant written examination on November 15 have been advised to plan their journeys in advance and reach their examination centres before weather conditions deteriorate. The administration has also advised expectant mothers living in upper reaches, whose expected dates of delivery fall within the next month, to shift to nearby hospitals to ensure timely medical assistance in case snowfall disrupts road connectivity. Residents have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel towards Gurez and other higher reaches and refrain from organising social gatherings in vulnerable areas during the forecast period. Meanwhile, the Anantnag district administration has activated its District Emergency Operation Centre round the clock to deal with weather-related emergencies and public grievances. Departments, including Public Works (R&B), Mechanical Engineering, Revenue, Flood Control, PMGSY, Urban Local Bodies, KPDCL, Jal Shakti and Health and Medical Education, have been directed to take precautionary measures and keep manpower and machinery ready. The administration has issued helpline numbers 01932-227112, 9697982527, 7780885759 and 9419091681 for public assistance. The Meteorological Department has advised tourists, travellers and transporters to plan their journeys in advance, check road conditions before setting out and strictly follow traffic advisories. Farmers have also been advised to suspend harvesting operations on November 12 and 13 and ensure that harvested crops are safely stored to prevent damage from rain and snowfall. The fresh snowfall and the approaching weather system could affect traffic on several important mountain routes, including the Srinagar-Leh highway via Zojila, the Mughal Road and other high-altitude passes, the advisory said. (KNS)
Eisenkot unveils agenda to reverse Netanyahu
TEL AVIV, Israel, November 11, 2026 (AP) Gadi Eisenkot, the politician tasked with forming a new Israeli government, pledged on Tuesday to reverse many of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus policies as the new parliament was sworn in. The pledge sets the stage for a consequential month of legislative action and coalition negotiations. Eisenkot, a former military chief, has up to six weeks to form a government that would end the tenure of Israels longest-serving prime minister.
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Give Our Youth a Fair Chance: Sakina Itoo Urges Jammu Kashmir Bank to Raise Age Limit
SRINAGAR: Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Masoodi has supported the demand for raising the upper age limit to 40 years for recruitment in Jammu and Kashmir Bank, saying aspirants should not suffer because of delays beyond their control. In a post on X, the minister said thousands of J&K Bank recruitment aspirants had lost []
CM Omar to Visit Udhampur, Reasi Today to Review Development Works
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will visit Udhampur and Reasi districts on Wednesday to review the progress of developmental works and inaugurate key public infrastructure projects. During the visit, the Chief Minister will also lay foundation stones for several new projects aimed at strengthening infrastructure, accelerating development and improving the delivery of public services in []
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Minister Sakina Ittoo bats for age relaxation in J
Srinagar: Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Masoodi has come out in support of the demand for relaxation in the upper age limit for recruitment in J&K Bank, saying aspirants should not be penalised for delays beyond their control. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, the minister said thousands of J&K Bank aspirants had []
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Mughal road closed as precautionary measure after light rain and snowfall at Pir Ki Gali
Poonch, Nov 11: Mughal Road has been temporarily closed for vehicular movement following light rain and light snowfall at Pir Ki Gali area on Wednesday morning. Officials told GNS that the road has been closed as a precautionary measure in view of slippery conditions. DySP Traffic Rajouri-Poonch Range, Ajaz Ahmed Choudhury confirmed to GNS that the road is closed as of now as a precautionary measure. Authorities have advised commuters to avoid travelling on the road till further clearance and to stay in touch with traffic control rooms for updates.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent calls for more balanced US-China trade ties ahead of Trump-Xi talks
NEW YORK: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, speaking ahead of US-China talks, called Tuesday for a more balanced relationship between the two countries, saying Americans have grown too dependent on imports. Addressing a gala hosted by the National Committee on US-China Relations at a New York ballroom, Bessent extolled the countries bond as one of this []
Fresh Snowfall Blankets Higher Reaches of Kashmir, Plains Receive Light Rain
SRINAGAR: Higher reaches of Kashmir, including Gulmargs Kongdoori, Tulail Valley in Gurez and the Zojila area, received fresh snowfall overnight, while several parts of the Valley, including Srinagar, experienced light rainfall as weather conditions changed ahead of the forecast of the seasons first major snow spell. Several areas of north Kashmir recorded light rainfall, while []
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Farmers from Pakistan's Sindh province are pursuing legal action against German firms RWE and Heidelberg Materials. They claim these companies' emissions contributed to severe flooding that devastated their livelihoods in 2022. This case marks a significant attempt to hold major polluters accountable for climate change impacts.
Jammu Kashmir Announces 15-Member Squad For U-23 Women
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has announced a 15-member squad for the U-23 Womens T20 Tournament 2026-27, scheduled to be held in Haryana from November 14 to 21. According to an official JKCA order dated November 9, Rudrakshi Chib has been appointed captain of the team, while Mehak Rukwal will serve as []
KPDCL launches Digital Handbook on Winter Preparedness 202627
Srinagar, Nov 10:In view of the prevailing weather advisory and ahead of the winter season, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) today launched its Digital Handbook on Winter Preparedness 202627, placing its comprehensive winter action plan for Kashmir Division in the public domain. The initiative, undertaken under the directions of the Minister for Power, J&K, aims to promote transparency, strengthen accountability and facilitate informed public participation in ensuring reliable and safe power supply during the winter months. The Handbook, themed Readiness, Restoration and Consumer Safety, serves as a comprehensive reference document outlining KPDCLs winter preparedness measures, buffer stocks, restoration mechanisms, grievance redressal channels and essential safety advisories for its 13.53 lakh consumers. Among the key highlights of the Handbook is a detailed overview of the Corporations power distribution network, comprising 353 Receiving Stations with a capacity of 5,021.65 MVA, 135 33 kV feeders, 1,334 11 kV feeders and 49,935 Distribution Transformers. It also outlines the pre-winter preparedness measures undertaken by KPDCL, including clearance of power corridors through regular shutdowns, augmentation of overloaded distribution transformers, renovation and modernisation of receiving stations, and rectification of identified fault-prone hotspots to minimise power disruptions. To ensure prompt replacement of damaged equipment and minimise restoration time, the Handbook provides division-wise details of buffer stocks, including 1,096 and 824 distribution transformers, along with buffer stocks of 33/11 kV power transformers and essential materials such as conductors, electric poles, transformer oil and AB cables. These materials have been positioned across divisions, including in areas vulnerable to floods and landslides. The Corporation has also put in place Swift Restoration Teams (SRTs) at district and divisional levels, supported by dedicated teams and control rooms to ensure timely response to power outages and other emergencies. For the convenience of consumers, the Handbook provides the names and contact numbers of Assistant Executive Engineers, Assistant Engineers and Junior Engineers of every Electric Division and Sub-Division, enabling the public to directly approach the concerned officials for assistance. Emphasising consumer convenience, the Handbook also details the available 247 grievance redressal mechanisms. Consumers can register their complaints through the helpline 1912, toll-free number 18001807666, JK Samadhan 2.0, CPGRAMS, and KPDCLs official website and social media platforms. The document further explains the statutory grievance escalation mechanism through the Internal Grievance Redressal Forum (IGRF), Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF) and Electricity Ombudsman. A dedicated section on public safety provides important winter-related Dos and Donts, advising consumers to immediately report snapped conductors, maintain a safe distance from damaged electrical installations and refrain from touching fallen wires, climbing electric poles or attempting repairs on their own. The Digital Handbook is available on KPDCLs official website at https://kpdcl.jk.gov.in and is also being disseminated through the Corporations official social media handles on X (@kpdcloffice), Facebook and Instagram. KPDCL has reiterated its commitment to ensuring reliable, uninterrupted and safe power supply during Winter 202627 and urged the general public to extend cooperation by promptly reporting power faults, damaged installations and other unsafe conditions to the concerned authorities.
Srinagar, Nov 10:The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has operationalised its office in the Peer Bagh area of Srinagar and begun focused operations to target those involved in the supply of narcotics. The move forms part of broader central and J&K government efforts to intensify enforcement against drug trafficking in Jammu and Kashmir. Senior NCB official Abhishek Sharma told Greater Kashmir that the office has been opened with a clear objective. We have opened office here and only motive is Drug Free Kashmir, he said. We have counselled some people and stopped them from this menace. According to officials, NCB teams are working in close coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police and other agencies. They have dealt with eight cases so far. The agency is also facilitating six-month rehabilitation programmes for addicts who seek help. Sharma said those who want to return to a normal life can approach the office, with their identities kept confidential. We will keep their identity confidential and are sending them for six months rehabilitation programmes outside, he said. The bureau is simultaneously running awareness programmes in schools and universities and contributing to the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan (Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan). The NCB Srinagar zonal unit has been established as part of the Union governments strategy to strengthen narcotics enforcement in J&K. The office has since conducted intelligence-led operations, including seizures of charas in areas such as Anantnag and the Baramulla-Pulwama belt, and has worked with local police to dismantle supply modules. These efforts align with a sustained crackdown across Jammu and Kashmir. Under the 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan launched by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in April 2026, J&K Police registered thousands of NDPS cases and made large numbers of arrests. In the Kashmir Zone alone, between January and October 2026, police registered 1651 NDPS cases, arrested 1941 persons, seized about 1711 kg of contraband, and attached properties worth approximately Rs 154 crore linked to the drug trade. J&K-wide figures under the campaign cited by senior officers included over 3200 cases and more than 4000 arrests, with 288 properties valued at around Rs 138 crore attached. Official data has also shown a sharp decline in overall narcotics seizures in J&K in recent years, particularly of opium-based drugs, even as treatment-seeking for addiction has risen significantly reflecting both intensified enforcement and growing recognition of the problem. Addiction treatment numbers at supported centres climbed from roughly 5300 in 2021-22 to over 46,000 in 2025-26. Officials emphasise a three-pronged approach of disrupting supply chains, expanding public awareness, and supporting rehabilitation. NCB has urged the public to report information confidentially via the MANAS helpline and to support the drive for a drug-free Kashmir.
El Nio threatens to dull Kashmirs winter
Record-strength Pacific warming raises snowfall, temp concerns Experts say Western Disturbances could still change seasonal picture Kashmir gradually becoming part of global weather change: Dir MeT Sgr Srinagar, Nov 10: Kashmir's winter is facing another climate test, with the strengthening El Nio phenomenon raising questions over the Valley's snowfall prospects, winter temperatures and the natural water reserves that sustain its rivers, streams and springs. The concern goes beyond whether the Valley will witness a white winter. For a region whose water security, agriculture, horticulture and hydropower depend heavily on mountain snow, a warmer winter or prolonged gaps between snowfall spells could have consequences extending well into the summer. The latest global climate assessment indicates that El Nio conditions are established in the equatorial Pacific and are expected to strengthen, potentially influencing global weather patterns through the coming winter. The Japan Meteorological Agency's November 10 assessment has reported an extraordinary development sea surface temperatures in the Nino-3 region were 4.4 degrees Celsius above normal in October, exceeding the previous record of 4 degrees set in September. The agency says the ongoing El Nio has reached its strongest intensity since records began in 1949. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), meanwhile, says there is more than an 83 per cent probability of a strong-to-very-strong El Nio persisting through January-March 2027. For Kashmir, the crucial question is how this global climate phenomenon interacts with Western Disturbances, the weather systems responsible for most of the Valley's winter rain and snowfall. Director, Meteorological Department, Srinagar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, told Rising Kashmir that Jammu and Kashmir could experience a relatively mild and drier-than-normal winter under El Nio's influence, although significant snowfall spells cannot be ruled out. Winter will definitely come. Sometimes winters are severe and sometimes mild. What we have been witnessing over the last few years is a relatively mild winter, Ahmad said. One thing is clear: Kashmir, once known for heavy snowfall and wet spells, is fast becoming part of the global warming system and this season, we may again witness a snow-deficient winter. He cautioned against making definitive long-range predictions, pointing out that one or two strong Western Disturbances accompanied by adequate moisture could significantly change the seasonal precipitation scenario. One or two active spells of Western Disturbances might reverse everything as far as precipitation is concerned, he said. But that doesnt mean we are not part of the larger weather system of the globe which is under the influence of global warming. Director Meteorological Centre Ladakh Sonam Lotus also cautioned against drawing conclusions solely from El Nio, saying global models indicated the possibility of a mild winter, but the region's complex atmospheric conditions made seasonal forecasting difficult. According to the global models, it seems that it will be a mild winter. But still, we cannot conclude it at this stage, Lotus said. But yes, we are becoming part of the global weather system and J&K and Ladakh are under the impact of global warming. He said the frequency and intensity of Western Disturbances, jet-stream configuration and other atmospheric circulation patterns would determine the actual winter outcome across J&K and Ladakh. Independent weatherman Faizan Arif said seasonal predictions required continuous examination of multiple international forecasting models rather than relying on a single climate indicator. It is indeed premature to draw conclusions on whether Kashmir would witness a dry or mild winter. Global weather change is a major reality, and one cant rule out Kashmir not being a part, Arif said. The concerns are particularly significant because Kashmir is entering another winter after years of inadequate precipitation. A March 2026 report documented seven consecutive winters of below-normal precipitation in Jammu and Kashmir. The winter of 2025-26 was particularly deficient, with the Union Territory receiving 100.6 mm of precipitation against a normal of 284.9 mm between December and February, marking a shortfall of 65 per cent. February was exceptionally dry, recording just 14.2 mm against a normal of 130.4 mm, a deficit of nearly 89 per cent. Srinagar received only 5.3 mm during the month. The wider Himalayan picture is equally concerning. An analysis published by the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing in January 2026 documented significantly reduced winter precipitation across the North Western Himalayas during the 2025-26 season. A separate assessment in May reported that snow cover across the Hindu Kush Himalayas was nearly 28 per cent below its long-term average between November 2025 and March 2026. These figures underline the growing vulnerability of the Himalayan snow system, which acts as a natural reservoir, storing winter precipitation and releasing water gradually during the warmer months. For Kashmir, reduced snow accumulation can affect the flow of rivers and streams, groundwater recharge, drinking water supplies, irrigation and hydropower generation. It can also disrupt horticulture, as fruit trees depend on adequate winter chilling to maintain their natural dormancy and flowering cycles. The impact is not limited to the summer water crisis. Prolonged dry spells and warmer conditions can also increase forest-fire vulnerability and alter the ecological balance of mountain habitats. Meteorologists, however, caution that El Nio should not be interpreted as a guarantee of a snow-deficient winter in Kashmir. Unlike some other parts of the world, winter precipitation in the western Himalayas is heavily dependent on Western Disturbances originating in the Mediterranean region and moving eastwards. Their frequency, intensity, movement and moisture content determine whether Kashmir receives widespread snowfall, isolated precipitation or prolonged dry spells. A strong disturbance during December or January could bring substantial snowfall even in an El Nio year. Conversely, frequent but weak systems could leave the mountains with inadequate snow accumulation. The immediate weather outlook also illustrates this uncertainty. The Meteorological Department has forecast a significant Western Disturbance around November 12-13, with widespread rain and snowfall expected over higher reaches of J&K. The coming winter will therefore be a crucial test of the region's changing climate. While the Pacific Ocean is registering unprecedented warming, Kashmir's fate will ultimately depend on how global climate signals interact with local atmospheric systems.
All schools must use JKBOSE books: DSEK
Srinagar, Nov 10: Director School Education Kashmir (DSEK), Naseer Ahmad Wani, has said that all schools across Kashmir must make books prescribed by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) compulsory, asserting that ensuring the use of board-prescribed textbooks remains the departments primary concern amid complaints over the high prices of books. Speaking about the issue of textbook pricing, Wani said the departments main focus was to ensure that schools follow the prescribed JKBOSE curriculum and do not unnecessarily burden parents with expensive books. He said private schools have been issued strict directions to make JKBOSE-prescribed books compulsory. However, he clarified that parents would remain free to purchase additional books for their children if they wished to do so voluntarily. If any parent wants their child to study an additional book with their own consent, we will not stop them, he said, adding that the department would not interfere with such decisions taken independently by parents. Addressing complaints regarding expensive textbooks, the Director said whenever such grievances are brought to the departments notice, the concerned Chief Education Officer (CEO) is directed to verify the matter on the ground. He added that appropriate action is taken wherever complaints are found to be genuine, stressing that the department remains concerned about preventing unnecessary financial pressure on parents. On the development of school infrastructure, the DSEK said significant improvements had been made over the past few years, with new facilities being added to government schools on a continuous basis. Smart boards have already been introduced in several schools, while facilities such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratories, astrophysics labs and Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) have also been established to provide students with better learning opportunities, he said. Wani said the department was working to extend these facilities to more schools in a phased manner, prioritising institutions where the requirements were greatest. The process of strengthening educational infrastructure would continue until such facilities become available across all schools, he said.
CM directs full use of SASCI funds by Mar 2027
Jammu, Nov 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress of works and projects taken up under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), taking stock of financial and physical performance, funds utilisation and plans for the coming financial years. The review covered the physical and financial progress of projects undertaken during FY 2025-26, availability of funds and expenditure targets for FY 2026-27, besides steps taken for effective implementation of projects during FY 2027-28. The Chief Minister reviewed progress across key sectors, including Public Works, Jal Shakti, Youth Services and Sports, Power Development, and Housing & Urban Development. The Chief Minister called for special focus to be given to Disaster Management component, aimed at strengthening disaster mitigation and resilience, besides restoring infrastructure damaged in natural disasters. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary; Ministers Ali Mohammad Sagar, Javed Rana, Javid Dar, Mir Saifullah and Shamim Firdous; Acting Chief Secretary Shailendra Kumar; Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta; Administrative Secretaries, Heads of Departments, senior officers of the Finance Department and other concerned officers. During the meeting, the Chief Minister directed expediting SASCI Part-I works and ensuring full utilisation of approved funds by March 2027 to qualify for the second instalment. He stressed strict adherence to revised deadlines for completion of works under the SASCI 2025-26 Disaster management Component and directed departments to achieve the prescribed financial targets within the stipulated period. Emphasising financial discipline and transparency, the Chief Minister directed strict compliance with Public Financial Management System (PFMS) uploads and timely submission of action plans on BEAMS. He also called for the closure of all Single Nodal Agency (SNA) bank accounts relating to Centrally Sponsored Schemes. In view of the forthcoming visit of the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) to assess damages, departments were asked to finalise comprehensive, sector-wise damage assessment reports to facilitate the assessment process. The Chief Minister further directed all departments to identify and prepare a robust shelf of encumbrance-free projects by March 2027 to facilitate timely tendering and smooth execution during FY 2027-28. He stressed advance planning and close inter-departmental coordination to ensure that the next years SASCI plan is finalised well in time. Reviewing the performance for FY 2025-26, the meeting was informed that against an overall allocation of 5,166.46 crore, comprising untied funds, Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) shares, incentive-based allocations and disaster management components, an expenditure of 3,367.64 crore had been incurred. The meeting was also informed that the State Executive Committee (SEC) has approved 1,416 crore for the Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) across social, infrastructure, productive and cross-cutting sectors, against the NDMA ceiling of 1,534.58 crore. An amount of 424.79 crore has been proposed for immediate release. For FY 2026-27, 811 crore is available under SASCI Part-I Untied Funds, including 541 crore in current-year receipts and 270 crore carried forward as unutilised funds from the previous financial year. Departments have been assigned an expenditure target of 608 crore to qualify for the second instalment. Under Part-II, relating to Centrally Sponsored Schemes, J&K has received 116 crore, constituting 66 per cent of the 176 crore SASCI loan assistance sought for 10 major schemes linked to J&K. The meeting also reviewed the J&K Administrations efforts to leverage the incentive-based funding pool of 2,890.51 crore available for FY 2026-27, linked to governance reforms, improved financial management and sector-specific performance benchmarks. Significant progress was reported under the Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture initiative (AgriStack), with 7.59 lakh Farmer IDs generated, representing 59 per cent of the target. The Digital Crop Survey (DCS) has been completed in 5,714 villages, covering 83.3 per cent of the target and more than 30.27 lakh land parcels. The meeting was informed that the pilot distribution of AgriStack-enabled fertilisers through Farmer IDs commenced on November 5, 2026, in Jammu and Srinagar districts, marking another step towards strengthening technology-driven agricultural service delivery. Progress was also reviewed under other incentive-linked reform areas, including Mining Reforms, with a target of 350 crore; Livestock Sector Reforms (150 crore); Efficiency in Financial Management (400 crore); implementation of Right of Way (RoW) Rules (50 crore); and achievement of Capital Expenditure targets (218 crore). Proposals in these areas have either been submitted or are at various stages of verification. The Ministers also shared their inputs and suggestions during the meeting, highlighting key priorities and issues concerning their respective departments. They emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to accelerate the implementation of SASCI-funded projects and ensure optimal utilisation of available resources. The Chief Minister emphasised that SASCI should be leveraged not merely as a special funding window but also as a strategic instrument for accelerating capital investment, strengthening public infrastructure and improving governance outcomes across Jammu and Kashmir. He underscored the importance of timely execution, efficient financial management and sustained coordination among departments to maximise the benefits available under the scheme.
When Wildlife Enters the Village
The death of six-year-old Kifayat Bhat in Kalantra village is a tragedy no family should have to endure. Attacked by a leopard and taken to hospital, the child succumbed to his injuries. His loss has left a family in mourning and a community confronting a frightening question: how safe are people in their own homes and neighbourhoods? The incident is not simply a wildlife encounter. It is a warning that the boundary between human habitation and animal habitat is increasingly fragile. For residents, especially children, the presence of a leopard near a village can turn ordinary routines into moments of danger. For wildlife, shrinking and disturbed habitats can bring animals closer to settlements in search of food and shelter. Acknowledging that complexity must not blunt the urgency of protecting people. Officials have taken cognisance and initiated a probe. That is necessary, but an inquiry alone cannot answer the concerns of Kalantras residents. The immediate priority must be to establish what happened, assess whether the animal remains in the area, and communicate clear safety guidance to the community. Residents deserve timely information, not uncertainty or silence. The authorities responsible for wildlife management and public safety must also examine whether warning and response systems are adequate in vulnerable areas. This means listening to local residents, responding quickly to reports of animal movement, and ensuring that trained teams can assess the risk without delay. Any action must be guided by expert assessment: public safety is paramount, but so is a responsible approach to wildlife. There is also a larger policy question. When encounters between people and wild animals become a recurring fear, the response cannot begin and end after a death. Authorities need to understand the local factors behind these incidents, strengthen monitoring where risk is identified, and coordinate between departments tasked with wildlife protection and community safety. Prevention requires planning, resources and accountabilitynot only statements of concern after a tragedy. For Kifayats family, no official response can undo their loss. But the least owed to them, and to the people of Kalantra, is a transparent account of the incident and practical steps to reduce the chance of another. A childs death must not become another brief headline followed by a return to routine. The leopards presence may be part of a wider human-wildlife conflict, but the responsibility to protect vulnerable residents rests with the institutions equipped to respond. Kalantra needs reassurance backed by action: a credible assessment, clear communication and sustained prevention. The measure of the response will be whether it makes the village safernot merely whether a probe was announced
Twelve Injured, Questions Unanswered
The crash near Sumbal Bala is more than a frightening interruption to a tourist journey. A Tempo Traveller skidded off the road on Tuesday evening, injuring at least 12 people from Gujarat, West Bengal and Punjab. The injured were first taken to PHC Gund; several were later referred to SKIMS Soura for specialised care. Their safe recovery is the immediate concern. The wider concern is why a road used by residents and visitors continues to expose passengers to such risk. The available details do not establish what caused the vehicle to skid. That is precisely why the police investigation must be more than a formal entry in a case register. It should establish the circumstances of the crash and examine the relevant factorsroad condition, visibility, vehicle fitness, speed and driver conductwithout presuming blame before evidence is gathered. Cognisance is only a beginning. The public deserves to know what the inquiry finds and what action follows. The incident also tests the emergency response system. PHC Gund provided initial treatment, and some injured passengers were referred to Srinagar. That pathway may have been necessary, but it raises a practical question: can local facilities consistently stabilise multiple casualties while arranging prompt onward transport? Authorities should review the response, identify any delay or resource gap, and make improvements where evidence points to them. In an accident involving a dozen people, readiness is not an abstract administrative issue; it can shape the first critical hours of care. Tourism is often discussed through arrivals, bookings and revenue. Yet visitors encounter Kashmir through its roads as much as its landscapes. When a vehicle carrying families from several states leaves the road, confidence depends not on reassurance but on visible safeguards: road maintenance, clear warnings at hazardous stretches, responsible driving and timely medical care. Residents deserve those protections every day; visitors should not have to rely on luck. No single crash, on the facts currently available, proves a systemic failure. But it does demand scrutiny, especially on routes carrying tourist traffic through difficult terrain. Authorities should inspect the stretch near Sumbal Bala, publish the findings of the investigation and act on any identified defect or lapse. Transport operators, too, must ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and drivers fit for the journey. Twelve people were injured; the consequences could have been worse. Treating the incident as routine would be the greater failure. A road becomes safer not through condolences or promises, but through transparent investigation and corrective action before another vehicle skids off it.
NCs history of sacrifice far greater than political stature of its critics: Tanvir Sadiq
Says LoP living in fools paradise; even his entire party cannot make a scratch in National Conference SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma, saying that he was living in a fools paradise if he []
KPDCL launches Digital Handbook on Winter Preparedness 2026
Comprehensive winter action plan covering network readiness, swift restoration, grievance redressal, consumer safety SRINAGAR: In view of the prevailing weather advisory and ahead of the winter season, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) on Tuesday launched its Digital Handbook on Winter Preparedness 202627, placing its comprehensive winter action plan for Kashmir Division in the []
Sakina inaugurates Rs 1.88 cr NTPHC at Chukar, inspects PHC Sariwarpora
Visits bereaved family of Sopore medical student, assures govt support BARAMULLA: Emphasizing the importance of accessible and quality healthcare facilities at the grassroots level, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo, on Tuesday inaugurated the New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) at Chukar, Tangmarg constructed at a cost of 1.88 crore. MLA []
Minister Dar exhorts officers to intensify field visits, redress farmers
JAMMU: Minister for Agriculture Production, Finance, Mining and Cooperative Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar on Tuesday convened a review meeting with senior officers of the Horticulture Department to assess the progress of ongoing projects and evaluate implementation of development schemes aimed at strengthening the horticulture sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Director []
Chand Harich Zoon: Cluster University Sgr stages musical opera on Habba Khatoon
Prog at Amar Singh College connects students with Kashmiri literary heritage SRINAGAR: The Abdul Ahad Azad Memorial Chair, Cluster University of Srinagar, in collaboration with Adbi Markaz Kamraz, presented the musical opera Chand Harich Zoon in the auditorium of Amar Singh College. The opera dwelled on the life of Habba Khatoon, the most celebrated and []
IUST holds 7th University Library Committee Meeting
Plans Rumi Heritage Corner to celebrate Jalaluddin Rumis legacy AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) convened the 7th meeting of its University Library Committee on November 9 to deliberate on measures for strengthening the Rumi Library and enhancing its role in supporting the Universitys academic and research ecosystem. The meeting was chaired []
Udyam Jagriti Prog held in Budgam for ex-servicemen, widows, families
Initiative under Mission YUVA, HADP, JKCIP aims to promote self-employment BUDGAM: An Udyam Jagriti programme under Mission YUVA, HADP and JKCIP was organised for ex-servicemen, widows and their families of District Budgam to sensitise them about the scheme and apprise them of the opportunities available for establishing sustainable self-employment ventures. The programme was organised by []
JKTF felicitates GMS Yarbalpora teacher Mehraj ud Din at pre-retirement function
HAJIN: The Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) Bandipora organised a pre-retirement function to felicitate Mehraj ud Din, a teacher at Government Middle School (GMS) Yarbalpora, in recognition of his 41 years of service in the Education Department. The function was attended by Principal Mehboob Ahmad Khan, Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Hajin Masood Ahmad, Zonal []
Dear reader, isn't life becoming a little too chaotic? Too many thoughts. Too many expectations. Too many unanswered questions. We wake up with worries and go to bed with regrets. Somewhere between yesterday's disappointments and tomorrow's uncertainties, we have forgotten how to live today. Welcome to the chaos. The strange thing about life is that nobody really knows what they are doing, yet everyone appears to have everything figured out. We pretend to be strong when we are falling apart. We smile when our minds are screaming for help. We say, Everything is fine, when nothing actually is. Perhaps growing up is nothing but learning the art of hiding your chaos behind a perfectly ordinary face. Look around. There is chaos everywhere. In our homes, where conversations have been replaced by arguments. In our workplaces, where competition has overtaken cooperation. In our relationships, where expectations have become heavier than affection. And inside our heads, where a thousand thoughts fight for attention. We are surrounded by people, yet increasingly lonely. Wait a minute. What exactly are we so worried about? The job we haven't secured? The promotion we haven't received? The person who walked away? The society that refuses to accept us? Or the future that hasn't even arrived? We exhaust ourselves fighting battles that exist only in our imagination. We suffer twiceonce in our thoughts and again in reality. Of course, life is not a bed of roses. Rejections hurt. Betrayals change you. Financial struggles test your patience. Losing someone leaves a void that no amount of success can fill. There are days when even getting out of bed feels like an achievement. And there are nights when silence becomes louder than words. Not every battle is visible. But here is the irony. We desperately want a peaceful life, yet sometimes become addicted to the very chaos that destroys our peace. We revisit old conversations, replay past mistakes and imagine imaginary arguments. We keep explaining ourselves to people who have already made up their minds. We seek closure from those who gave us confusion. Tell me, how long will you keep paying for yesterday's mistakes? Society has its own version of chaos. Someone is too poor, someone is too rich. Someone is unmarried, someone is unemployed. Someone has no children; someone has too many responsibilities. If you succeed, people question your methods. If you fail, they question your abilities. If you remain silent, you are arrogant. If you speak, you are troublesome. Strange standards, aren't they? You cannot spend your entire life trying to fit into everyone's definition of normal. And then comes the biggest chaos of allour own expectations. We want everything, and we want it now. A successful career, a happy family, financial security, social recognition and a peaceful mind. Nothing wrong with wanting these things. But somewhere along the way, we forget that life is not a checklist. You cannot control every outcome. You cannot please every person. And you certainly cannot predict every twist. Time has taught me something. Not every problem deserves a reaction. Not every argument deserves an explanation. Not every person deserves access to your peace. Sometimes, walking away is not weakness. Sometimes, silence is not surrender. And sometimes, accepting that things are beyond your control is the greatest form of strength. Be kind to yourself. You are allowed to have bad days. You are allowed to change your mind. You are allowed to start again, even when the world thinks you should have figured it out by now. Don't confuse a difficult chapter with a failed story. Life has a strange way of surprising those who refuse to give up. So, embrace the chaos, but don't become the chaos. Let the world rush, argue, compete and compare. You don't have to participate in every storm. Protect your peace. Choose your battles. Forgive yourself for the things you didn't know yesterday. (The author is a freelance Columnist and writes on various issues. He can be reached at: fidahumairawrite@gmail.com )
Geothermal Energy: A New Chapter in Indias Clean Energy Journey
Puga valley, a place located at 14,000 feet above sea level in southeastern Ladakhs Chanthang is known for its hot springs and underground heat reserves. This place is completely redefining the geothermal story of the country. In July 2026, the ONGC Energy Centre commissioned the country's first two geothermal wells in the Puga valley. For a nation of 1.4 billion people that has long looked to the sun and wind for its renewable ambitions, the heat of the Earth itself is now entering daily conversations. The two wells, each 1,000 metres deep, will support reservoir evaluation. They also pave the way for India's first one-megawatt demonstration geothermal power project, marking the country's entry into geothermal power generation. Though the scale is modest, what it implies is more important. The concept of Geothermal Energy India is moving from resource assessment to field demonstration, and Puga valley is where that shift becomes visible. Geothermal energy is steady, low-carbon and not affected by weather. Unlike solar and wind, it is available throughout the year. This matters for a large, densely populated country that wants to add reliable, home-grown sources to its renewable energy mix. That is why regions like Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh become important. Science states why the Earth's interior is hot because it is driven by the radioactive decay of elements like uranium, thorium and potassium, along with residual heat from the planet's formation. In geologically active regions, faults and fractures let hot material travel closer to the surface, creating reservoirs of hot water and steam trapped within permeable rock. Deep wells bring these resources up. The steam drives a turbine connected to a generator, a process resembling conventional thermal power, except that naturally occurring underground heat replaces fuel combustion. The used water is condensed and reinjected into the reservoir, supporting replenishment and continued production. Importance of Puga What makes Ladakh's milestone critical is the policy framework behind it. In September 2025, the government notified the National Policy on Geothermal Energy. The policy aims to establish geothermal energy as a major renewable pillar enabling systematic exploration and deployment of the country's resources. While prioritising research, drilling, reservoir management and direct-use applications, and supports Ground Source Heat Pumps for heating and cooling. A clear regulatory framework encourages both public and private sector participation. It facilitates repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells, builds toward a national geothermal data repository, and supports pilot projects and Centres of Excellence. Alongside this, MNRE is implementing the Renewable Energy Research and Technology Development Programme through research institutions and industry partners, aiming at indigenous, cost-effective technologies. Internationally, geothermal energy has been identified as a key area of cooperation with Australia and Iceland, and as a focus area in an MoU with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Future The Geological Survey of India has mapped 381 hot springs and identified 10 geothermal provinces, from the Himalayan province to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the West Coast and the South Indian Cratonic regions. India's theoretical geothermal prospect stands at nearly 10.6 GW, and 42 sites have been recognised as promising for power generation and direct heat use. Technology could widen this further. Enhanced Geothermal Systems and Advanced Geothermal Systems will expand exploration opportunities, so suitable projects can arise anywhere geothermal resources exist. Inactive oil and gas wells could be repurposed, subject to technical and operational feasibility, building on existing drilling expertise, well data and infrastructure. Beyond electricity, geothermal heat supports district heating, agriculture, aquaculture, and space heating and cooling. Possibilities include geo-tourism too. For a high-altitude region like Ladakh, such direct uses are worth watching closely. Other projects are already adding experience. Gujarats Gandhinagar has demonstrated electricity generation of 50 to 90 kilowatts from fluid at 70 to 80C. Ankleshwar in Gujarat is evaluating retrofitted oil and gas wells, Tawang in Anuranchal Pradesh is studying five geothermal sites, Hyderabad is developing a geothermal cooling system, and a pilot study is modelling shallow systems with Borehole Heat Exchangers. An honest account must note that commercial-scale power generation is yet to be established. What exists today is a foundation: expanding well fields, demonstration activities and research initiatives strengthening the ecosystem. The world offers proof of concept, with global installed capacity reaching 15.67 GW by the end of 2025, led by Indonesia, the US, the Philippines, Trkiye and New Zealand, together holding around 67%. India, by comparison, is only at the starting line. The government's larger purpose is clear. India is driving towards Net Zero by 2070, and the policy seeks to make geothermal energy a key part of the nation's renewable energy story. The aim is energy security and sustainable growth, through a steady, indigenous pillar of the energy transition. From the cold, thin air of Puga Valley, that aim feels both distant and tangible. The wells are only 1,000 metres deep, and the demonstration plant is only one megawatt. But every large energy system begins with a first well. If policy, research, partnerships and patient field work continue to align, the heat beneath Ladakh may help power the journey to 2070. (COURTESY - PIB SRINAGAR)
Kashmiri Women Making Their Mark in Science, Research and Innovation
Women were traditionally expected to stay within the boundaries of their homes, with few opportunities to pursue careers outside their household responsibilities. However, societal attitudes and expectations have gradually changed. Today, women work in almost every field and prove their abilities through education, hard work, and determination. Science, technology, medicine, and research are among the areas where their contribution are becoming increasingly visible. Every year, 10th November is marked as the World Science Day for Peace and Development. This day stresses the significance of science in our day-to-day life and its importance in developing a good society. It also makes us realise that scientific developments should be available to all, irrespective of their gender or geography. On this occasion, it is important to recognise the contributions of women who are working hard in the scientific field in Jammu & Kashmir. Their stories deserve recognition because they have overcome various hurdles in their lives to create opportunities for themselves. Kashmiri Women Contributing to Scientific Research Kashmir has many talented women working in different areas of science. Their research covers biotechnology, agriculture, genetics, medicine and other important subjects. Some of their work is directly connected with the region's needs and resources. One such name is Dr Hina Fayaz Bhat, an Assistant Professor and Junior Scientist in the Biotechnology Division at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Srinagar. In 2013, she achieved an important milestone by becoming the first woman scientist from the region to receive the Department of Science and Technology's INSPIRE Faculty Award in the biomedical sciences category. Her career highlights the increasing participation of Kashmiri women in scientific research. Biotechnology is an area that needs many years of hard work, dedication, and effort. Her contributions may inspire young girls to pursue higher education and develop their careers in scientific streams of life. Another scientist worth mentioning is Dr Nasheeman Ashraf, who has been working in the genetics of saffron. Saffron is of great importance to the agricultural identity of Kashmir, and any improvements in the cultivation of this crop would benefit the Kashmiri farmers and the economy of the state as well. Her work revolves around saffron genetics and transcriptome, consisting of almost 64,000 genes. She has also worked in the field of saffron cultivation research in various districts of Kashmir. Such research contributes significantly to knowledge about the plant and helps find new ways to improve it. A Young Girl from Baramulla with a Vision for Innovation Scientific ideas do not always come from big laboratories or research institutions. Sometimes, they begin with a simple observation made by a school student. The journey of Shahida Bano from Baramulla is a good example. She came up with an idea for a smart vehicle key. Her project uses a fingerprint sensor to identify the driver's age and licence details, with the aim of preventing underage and unauthorised driving. Her idea earned her the INSPIRE National Award. She also won the Inventor India Challenge while she was still in school. Later, she was selected for the prestigious Japan-Asia Youth Exchange Programme in Science under the SAKURA Exchange Programme. What makes this journey worth noting is the fact that she began contemplating innovation at such a tender age. Road accidents remain an important problem, and the idea is basically her attempt to innovate technology to help make roads safer. While the idea may need more technical work to become practical, this is the sort of thinking encouraged by innovation. The success story of Shahida Bano is actually a way of encouraging other students, particularly female students in rural areas, to consider their ideas seriously. A student does not necessarily have to reach university to start venturing into science. A little idea generated in the classroom can actually lead to many big things. Women and Their Contribution to Medicine and Technology Medicine and healthcare are other important areas where women have made remarkable contributions. Women from Kashmir are also becoming part of this scientific journey. Their participation in biotechnology, microbiology and medical research is helping expand the region's presence in these fields. The work of women researchers in areas such as tuberculosis, genetics, and biomedical sciences is particularly important. These subjects may appear complicated, but their purpose is connected with everyday life. Better scientific understanding can help improve disease detection, treatment research and public health. Technology has also created new opportunities for women. Young girls are now exploring robotics, computer science, digital tools and other emerging areas. With the right guidance and facilities, more students from Kashmir can develop ideas that address problems in their communities. These accomplishments assume additional significance in view of the fact that several women have had to cope with certain challenges during their academic and professional endeavours. Some Challenges: Geographical constraints, limited availability of research facilities, familial duties, and social norms may create some hurdles for women in Kashmir. Scientific research needs laboratory facilities, instruments, funding and mentorship; however, these resources are not available to all. Despite the above-mentioned barriers, women have succeeded in making strides in their careers. Their success story is a reminder of the need for education, encouragement from family and teachers, as well as institutions. Remembering Women Who Inspired the Scientific World While recognising Kashmiri women, we should also remember some of the Indian and international women who opened doors for future generations. The examples of famous female scientists in India include Kamala Sohonie who is known for her achievements in biochemistry, becoming the first Indian woman to obtain a PhD in a scientific field. Anna Mani was a scientist contributing to the fields of meteorology and scientific instruments; Asima Chatterjee was a pioneer in organic chemistry and medicinal plants research. Finally, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw contributed greatly to India's biotechnology sector. Worldwide, Marie Curie was one of the most famous female scientists due to her discovery of radioactivity. Research by Rosalind Franklin contributed to our understanding of DNA, while Grace Hopper made contributions to computer science and programming. In 2020, the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was bestowed upon Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier for their work on CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing. These women came from different backgrounds and worked in different fields, yet their achievements share one thing: they continued their work even when the path was difficult. Encouraging the Next Generation of Kashmiri Girls As the world observes World Science Day, the successes of Kashmiri women should prompt us to think about the future. There are numerous girls enrolled in educational institutions all over the valley who possess the potential to grow up to be doctors, scientists, researchers, engineers and innovators. Hina Fayaz Bhat, Nasheeman Ashraf and Shahida Bano prove the point that Kashmiri women are leaving their mark in the domain of science. The success of these women is also a reminder of the numerous girls whose talent is still not recognised. A girl seated in a classroom today might just end up becoming a scientist tomorrow. Her query could become a reason behind some research, while her idea could give rise to innovation and help solve some of the problems faced by society. So, let us acknowledge the contributions made by Kashmiri women in science and motivate more girls to pursue their passion. Kashmir possesses talent, ideas, and potential, and with proper opportunities for women, this potential could be turned into achievements. (The Author is a Writer and Social commentator who writes on themes related to women's empowerment, rural livelihoods, entrepreneurship, health, and changing social realities in the Kashmir Valley. Feedback: rakshandagul629@gmail.com )
Before We Fill the Card, Let Us Learn to Ask: The Holistic Progress Card in Kashmir
Picture a teacher in a Kashmir classroom, late in the session, with the online Holistic Progress Card open on a screen. A cursor blinks in a field. She knows the child well. She knows he hesitates before speaking but draws beautifully, and that he helps younger children with their shoelaces. The form, however, asks her to choose, select, map and paste. She hesitates, not because she doesn't know the child, but because she isn't sure what the form is asking her to know. That hesitation is the most honest data point we have on the HPC in Kashmir Division, and we should not rush past it. The promise behind the card The HPC, developed by PARAKH, the assessment body within NCERT, was designed to move us away from a single number that claims to summarise a child. It is meant to be a 360-degree record. It is built on competency-based activities and brings together the teacher's observations, the child's self-assessment, the views of peers and the voice of parents. PARAKH describes it as an integrative document capturing progress across several curricular areas. Cards have been developed for the Foundational, Preparatory and Middle stages, and work on the Secondary stage was reported as ongoing. The philosophy flows directly from the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023, which ask for assessment that supports learning rather than merely ranking it. It helps to keep three ideas apart. Assessment of learning asks what the child has achieved. Assessment for learning asks what the teacher should do next. Assessment as learning asks what the child can notice about her own thinking. For decades our system has lived almost entirely in the first idea. The HPC, at its best, invites us into the other two. A winter calendar and a summer template Kashmir Division follows a winter calendar, and schools here have rolled out the HPC. Teachers have struggled, and most have learnt to complete the required fields. That deserves acknowledgement. Learning a new digital document in the middle of teaching, examinations and administrative returns is no small feat. But completing fields and understanding assessment are different achievements. The questions teachers are asking show where the gap lies. How should one choose among R1, R2 and R3 at the middle stage, and between R1 and R2 at the foundational stage? How does one fetch an activity from the activity bank? How does one create an activity, place it in the online document, and map it to learning standards and the PARAKH framework? I have no survey to cite, and I will not pretend otherwise. These are concerns I have encountered in my own observation, and they need systematic study. Notice, though, that nearly all of them are procedural questions about the document. Very few are questions about the child. When teachers ask how to fill a field, we are probably seeing a reporting tool arrive before the assessment thinking that should precede it. There is also a structural question worth asking. PARAKH's published material appears to map activities across an April-to-March session. Kashmir's academic rhythm differs, with its winter vacation and its own session boundaries. Is the card's timeline being adapted sensibly to our calendar, or are teachers left to reconcile the two on their own? An honest review should find out. Fix the pedagogy first My central argument is simple. Before we address the problems of the HPC, we must address the problems of our pedagogy. A progress card can only record what the classroom has made visible. If lessons are lectures followed by recall questions, there is little to observe beyond recall. No format, however elegant, can capture curiosity that was never invited. If we want the card to say something true about a learner's creativity, collaboration or ethical sense, the classroom must first create occasions for those things to appear. That begins with questions, and with the children's own questions above all. A child who is allowed to ask why? and what if? is already doing the work of competency. The questions, the child's explanations of her thinking, her perceptions and her learning environment all feed her holistic development. A classroom where questions are welcomed produces rich evidence for the HPC almost as a by-product. A classroom where questions are discouraged will produce a card full of ticks and little truth. The same applies to teachers. Confusion is not a failure. It is where learning starts, and the questions teachers are asking about the HPC are the best professional-development agenda we could hope for. They should be gathered, discussed and answered, not silenced by the next circular. What teachers need to own For the HPC to mean something, teachers need to be at home with a set of ideas that cannot be learnt in a single workshop. These include formative and summative assessment, curricular goals, competencies and learning outcomes, and the skill of mapping an activity to a learning standard. They also include the craft of framing a good question, with a clear stem, plausible distractors and a defensible key. Finally, they include writing a rubric, which is the hardest part and the most important. A rubric is not a scoring sheet. It is a conversation with the learner. Its criteria tell her what quality looks like, and its descriptors show where she stands. Its levels show her where she might go next. A child who can read a rubric can plan her own growth, which is the point of assessment as learning. This is practice, not theory. A teacher should be identifying competencies and learning outcomes across the chapters of the prescribed textbooks, designing activities, and building rubrics for them throughout the year. After a hundred such experiences, mapping an activity to a standard stops being a clerical task and becomes professional instinct. The risk of the single sitting The danger I most want to name is the default mindset of finishing a task. Our system is very good at converting reforms into returns, and an HPC filled in one sitting at the end of the session is a compliance exercise wearing the clothes of a reform. It records the teacher's memory, not the child's journey. A 360-degree document cannot be built in a week. It needs almost a full year of working with children, colleagues, parents and peers. The evidence should accumulate in portfolios, projects, observation notes and conversations, and the card should be a living record that is revisited rather than a form submitted. If the card is truly to show a learner's choices, tendencies and possible directions, it must be assembled slowly enough for those things to emerge. The parent and the multilingual classroom PARAKH treats parent observation as a major component of the card. That is a genuine opportunity. For many parents in Kashmir, a report card has meant a mark and a rank. A card that asks them what they notice at home, such as whether their child shares, persists or wonders, widens their understanding of what schooling is for. But this will not happen if the card arrives only at the end of the year. Parents need to be invited early and to see why their observations matter. They also need those observations to be asked for in a language and a manner they find natural. Language is the wider question. Our classrooms bring together Kashmiri, Urdu, Gojri, Pahari and other home languages, alongside English. Can a teacher record a child's strengths in the child's own linguistic world? Will a rural parent find the document intelligible? And in a small multi-grade school with one or two teachers, how can the card be sustained alongside everything else? These are open questions, and context-sensitive answers will serve us better than uniform instructions. The way forward None of this is an argument against the HPC. It is an argument for giving it the conditions in which it can work. Several steps seem realistic. First, training should move from explaining fields to showing practice. Teachers learn assessment by watching an assessment happen, so demonstration sessions built on real classroom situations, with a real activity, a real rubric and real student work, would do more than any number of presentations. Second, DIETs and SCERT should act as academic mentors rather than collectors of returns. A visit that asks show me a child's portfolio and let us discuss it teaches more than a visit that counts completed cards. Third, we need simple, contextual rubrics and exemplars, ideally developed with Urdu/Kashmiri teachers, in forms that a teacher in a remote school can adapt without a specialist beside her. Fourth, documentation should be reduced wherever the HPC makes older records redundant. A reform that adds to the workload without removing anything will be quietly resisted, and with good reason. Fifth, parent-teacher interaction should be built into the calendar across the year, not left to the end of it. Finally, we should review quality rather than quantity. The success of the HPC cannot be measured by the number of cards filled. It should be judged by whether teachers understand their learners better, whether classroom assessment has grown stronger, and whether parents and schools are better able to support each child. A light, not a ledger A ledger records what has happened. A lamp shows what is there and where one might walk next. The Holistic Progress Card can be either, and the difference will not be decided in New Delhi or in an online form. It will be decided in classrooms, by whether teachers are given the time, trust and training to look closely at children. If we do that, the card will matter. If we do not, it will be one more format completed on schedule, and the child at the centre of it will be no better understood. (The Author is a teacher educator with about 30 years of service; he writes on school education, assessment and teacher development. The views expressed are personal. He can be emailed at: sheikhgulzar1970@gmail.com )
Fire damages commercial building, two houses in Indra Nagar
Srinagar, Nov 10: A fire broke out in Indra Nagar area of Srinagar, damaging three structures, including a commercial building and two residential houses, prompting the deployment of multiple Fire and Emergency Services stations and nine fire tenders to contain the blaze. Officials said the Fire Control Room Batamaloo received a running fire call after flames erupted in the area. Immediately after receiving the information, fire tenders from different stations were mobilised to prevent the fire from spreading to adjoining structures. Officials said that due to heavy traffic congestion, fire tenders initially faced some difficulty in reaching the spot. However, SSP Traffic City Srinagar, along with concerned traffic personnel, intervened and facilitated the movement of fire tenders, ensuring their passage towards the affected area. Upon reaching the spot, firefighters found that a commercial building and two residential houses had been engulfed by the fire, with the attic portions of all three structures involved in the blaze. Firefighting operations were immediately launched, with personnel working tirelessly alongside police officials and local residents to bring the situation under control and prevent further damage. Officials said that Fire Station Gaw Kadal, F&ES Headquarters Batamaloo, Fire Station Hari Niwas and Fire Station Nowgam were pressed into service. Additionally, water bowsers from F&ES Headquarters were also dispatched as reinforcement to ensure an adequate water supply during the firefighting operation. The coordinated efforts of firefighters, police personnel, traffic officials and local residents played an important role in tackling the blaze. Officials further said that the exact cause of the fire was not immediately known and is being investigated.
Focus on expanding NCC outreach to remote areas: Maj Gen Mukesh Sharma
Srinagar, Nov 10: Major General Mukesh Sharma has assumed charge as the Additional Director General (ADG) of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Directorate, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, pledging to expand the organisations outreach, empower young cadets and strengthen its training programmes. Under the theme Envision and Evolve: Empowering Youth, Strengthening NCC, Building the Nation, Maj Gen Sharma said his focus would be on building upon the achievements of his predecessors while introducing fresh ideas and initiatives to further strengthen the NCC. After assuming the charge, he said the organisation would continue to uphold its guiding principles of Unity and Discipline and work towards developing confident, disciplined and responsible young citizens with strong leadership qualities and a spirit of service. Outlining his priorities, Maj Gen Sharma said expanding the NCCs outreach to more schools and colleges, particularly in remote, rural and border areas, would remain a key focus to ensure that geographical challenges do not deprive young people of opportunities. He also emphasised the empowerment of girl cadets, citing the achievement of 20 girl cadets who successfully crossed the 5,578-metre-high Parang La Pass during the Aparajita Expedition as an example of their courage, determination and leadership. He said the Directorate would continue to create more such opportunities for young women to demonstrate their capabilities and take up challenging assignments. On modernisation, the ADG said efforts would be made to make NCC training more contemporary, relevant and engaging while strengthening teamwork and partnerships with educational institutions, the civil administration and other stakeholders. Addressing young cadets, Maj Gen Sharma urged them to dream big, embrace challenges, maintain physical fitness, stay away from drugs and continuously develop their skills. NCC is not merely about uniforms, drills and parades; it is about building character, leadership and responsible citizens, he said. He also acknowledged the contribution of NCC officers and staff working at the grassroots level, saying their dedication and guidance played a vital role in shaping young cadets into disciplined and responsible citizens. Maj Gen Sharma sought continued support from the Jammu and Kashmir government, the UT administration of Ladakh, educational institutions, parents and the media in strengthening the organisation. Highlighting the role of the media, he said it had an important responsibility in bringing the achievements and contributions of NCC cadets to public attention. Our aim is simple to reach more youth, create more opportunities and build a stronger NCC for a stronger nation, he said. He expressed confidence that collective efforts would help the NCC Directorate adapt to changing times, empower young people and prepare them to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Leopard kills six-year-old boy in Baramullas Kalantra
Kreeri/Kalantra, Nov 10: A pall of gloom descended on Kalantra Payeen village in Kreeri area of Baramulla district after a six-year-old boy was mauled to death by a leopard while accompanying his mother to an orchard on Monday morning. According to locals, the child was in the orchard with his mother when the leopard attacked him and inflicted severe injuries to his neck. His mother raised an alarm and called family members, who rushed to the spot and found the child critically injured. The child, identified as Kifayat Ramzan Bhat, was rushed to a nearby health facility and subsequently referred to the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Kreeri. However, he succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital. Kifayat, whose father is a labourer, was the only son in the family and is survived by two sisters. His death has plunged the family and the entire village into mourning. Residents said leopard attacks had been reported in the area previously as well. A girl was recently attacked and injured in Kakothal, while another incident involving an attack on sheep was reported in Wagila village. The latest incident has triggered fear among residents, who have demanded that the Wildlife Department install cages at vulnerable locations across the villages and take immediate measures to capture the leopard to prevent further attacks. Farooq Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Kalantra, said the entire area was mourning the loss of the child and expressed anger over what he termed the department's reactive approach. It is unfortunate that the Wildlife Department responds only after an incident takes place. They should take preventive measures before such tragedies occur, he said. Residents said the incident had created panic among villagers, who fear further attacks by wild animals. They urged the department to intensify surveillance and take concrete steps to ensure the safety of people, particularly children. Wildlife Warden North Kashmir, Intesar Suhail, told Rising Kashmir that a team had been dispatched to the area following the incident and that efforts were underway to capture the leopard. We have installed cages and are examining animal tracks. A similar incident was reported earlier, when a girl was attacked, and the leopard was subsequently captured alive, he said. Suhail said leopards often venture into residential areas in search of dogs and urged people to take precautionary measures. Regarding complaints of black bears damaging apple orchards and vegetable gardens, Suhail said the department installs cages wherever complaints are received and makes efforts to capture the animals or drive them away. He advised orchard owners against leaving fallen fruit in orchards, saying it attracts wild animals, and urged them to complete harvesting at the earliest. People should also avoid allowing unnecessary vegetation to grow, as it provides wild animals with cover to hide, he said. The Wildlife Warden said the department provides compensation of Rs 5 lakh in cases of human death and Rs 2 lakh for serious injuries. He added that the compensation process is initiated promptly by departmental employees.
Ladakh to hold Panchayat, Municipal polls on Nov 21
Leh, Nov 10: Ladakh is gearing up for a major democratic exercise, with elections to Panchayats, Leh and Kargil Municipal Councils scheduled for November 21, followed by elections to all eight Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs) on December 4. Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, IAS, announced the election schedule while addressing a press conference, where he also briefed the media on the proposed Excise Policy and Nautor Land Regulations. Providing details of the electoral preparations, Kundra said that elections would be conducted across 192 Panchayat Halqas, while voters in Leh and Kargil would elect their representatives to the respective Municipal Councils on November 21. He said that elections to all eight LAHDCs, covering 100 constituencies across Ladakh, would be held on December 4. This marks a significant expansion of the democratic framework following the creation of eight districts from the erstwhile two districts of Leh and Kargil. Consequently, the number of LAHDC constituencies has increased from 26 each in Leh and Kargil to 100 across the Union Territory. The delimitation exercise, he explained, was carried out under the prescribed rules, keeping population distribution, Panchayat Halqas and Municipal Wards in consideration. As per the announced schedule, November 17, 2026, is the last date for filing nominations for LAHDC elections, followed by scrutiny on November 18 and withdrawal of candidature on November 20. The entire electoral process is scheduled to be completed before December 8. Sharing the election statistics, the Chief Secretary said that 55 Sarpanches out of 192 Panchayat Halqas had already been elected unopposed, while elections would be held for the remaining 137 positions. Similarly, 1,186 Panch candidates out of a total of 1,428 had been elected unopposed. In the Leh Municipal Council, elections would be held in all 21 wards, while four of the 17 wards in the Kargil Municipal Council had elected their representatives unopposed. Highlighting another important aspect of the upcoming LAHDC elections, Kundra said that 36 out of the 100 seats had been reserved for women for the first time, describing it as a significant step towards enhancing women's participation and representation in grassroots democratic institutions. Responding to concerns surrounding the Excise Policy, the Chief Secretary said that the Ladakh Administration had held detailed discussions with women representatives and other stakeholders, taking into account the region's cultural values, traditions and local sensitivities. He assured that the policy would be reviewed through wider consultations after the completion of the elections, clarifying that no changes could be introduced while the Model Code of Conduct remained in force. Emphasising the importance of maintaining a balance between local traditions and economic considerations, Kundra observed that tourism remained a major pillar of Ladakh's economy and provided livelihoods to a large section of the population. Referring to the teachings of Lord Buddha and the principle of the Middle Path, he stressed that the next year's Excise Policy should be formulated through a balanced approach, taking into consideration the concerns of society as well as economic realities. On the proposed Nautor Land Regulations, Kundra said that the draft had been prepared to address the long-pending issue of people occupying Nautor land without proper legal titles. He said that suggestions and objections received from the public, particularly regarding land regularisation rates and the proposed provisions concerning land belonging to universities, educational institutions and religious organisations, would be carefully examined. The Chief Secretary assured that the final regulations would be framed only after detailed consultations with the newly elected LAHDCs, ensuring that the concerns of local communities and institutions were adequately addressed. He further clarified that the newly elected Hill Development Councils would retain all powers vested in them under the existing law. In addition, they would exercise the powers envisaged for District Panchayats under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, further strengthening their role in local governance and decentralised administration. Addressing concerns over holding elections during the winter season, Kundra assured that necessary arrangements would be made to facilitate voters, particularly in areas experiencing extreme cold. He said instructions had been issued to all Deputy Commissioners to ensure adequate facilities at polling stations, including heaters and separate queues for senior citizens, so that people could exercise their democratic rights without facing unnecessary difficulties. He also underlined the importance of constituting the newly elected Councils on time, noting that January, February and March would be crucial months for the Councils to prepare the budget for the next financial year. Concluding his address, the Chief Secretary appealed to all sections of society, particularly youth, women, senior citizens, religious organisations and government employees, to participate enthusiastically in the forthcoming elections and exercise their right to vote. He pointed out that Panchayat elections had not been held in Ladakh for the past three years, making the forthcoming electoral exercise particularly significant for restoring and strengthening grassroots democratic institutions. Referring to discussions with the Apex Body and other stakeholders, Kundra reiterated the commitment of the Government of India and the Ladakh Administration towards strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring the early constitution of the newly established District Councils. He urged the people of Ladakh to come forward in large numbers and make the forthcoming elections a success, describing the exercise as an important milestone in deepening democracy and strengthening public participation in governance across the Union Territory.
Sakeena Itoo visits family of deceased Sopore medical student
Sopore, November 10: Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo on Tuesday visited the bereaved family of 26-year-old MBBS student Adnan Altaf Rather at Dangerpora in Sopore and expressed condolences over his death in Bangladesh. During the visit, the Minister conveyed her sympathies to the family and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and strength and patience for the bereaved family. Expressing grief over the incident, Itoo said the death of a young student pursuing his dream of becoming a doctor was deeply saddening. Words cannot adequately express the pain of a family that has lost its young son. May Almighty Allah grant the departed soul the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous and bless the family with strength and patience to bear this immense loss, she said. The Minister was accompanied by Gulmarg MLA Farooq Ahmad Shah, Pattan MLA Javid Reyaz and Sopore MLA Irshad Rasool Kar, who also expressed condolences and conveyed solidarity with the bereaved family.
Javid Dar asks officers to step up field visits, address farmers' concerns
Jammu, Nov 10: Minister for Agriculture Production, Finance, Mining and Cooperative Departments Javid Ahmad Dar on Tuesday directed Horticulture Department officers to intensify field visits and ensure timely redressal of farmers' grievances. He was chairing a review meeting with senior officers of the Horticulture Department to assess the progress of ongoing projects and implementation of development schemes aimed at strengthening the horticulture sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Director Horticulture Jammu Gul Syed, Director Horticulture Kashmir Vikas Anand, Managing Director JKHPMC Mohammad Farooq and other senior officials. The Minister called for a focused and farmer-centric approach to ensure that the benefits of government schemes reach the intended beneficiaries, particularly small and marginal farmers. He stressed the need for transparency, accountability and timely delivery of benefits. Emphasising field-level monitoring, Dar directed officers and field functionaries to regularly visit horticulture areas, interact with farmers and assess the challenges faced by them. He said such visits should help identify implementation gaps and ensure prompt resolution of grievances. He also called for intensified awareness campaigns to inform farmers about government schemes, financial assistance, technological interventions and other support facilities, stressing that no eligible farmer should be left out due to lack of awareness or procedural difficulties. The Minister directed the officers to prepare district-specific development strategies based on local horticultural potential, production patterns and crop requirements. He called for need-based and crop-specific interventions to improve productivity and strengthen the sector. Dar also stressed the need to strengthen the entire horticulture value chain, including production, post-harvest management, processing and marketing, to ensure better returns for farmers. He called for coordinated efforts between the Horticulture Department, Jammu and Kashmir Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (JKHPMC) and other allied agencies for effective implementation of schemes and optimum utilisation of available resources. During the meeting, officers presented details of the physical and financial progress of various ongoing schemes and projects being implemented by the Horticulture Department, JKHPMC and allied sectors.
Mian Altaf visits remote Hill Kaka village, seeks urgent infrastructure push
Srinagar, November 10: Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad visited the remote Hill Kaka area of Poonch district, undertaking a difficult journey on horseback through mountainous terrain to meet residents and take stock of their grievances. During the visit, Mian Altaf interacted with local residents, tribal elders and members of the Gujjar-Bakarwal community to assess the availability of basic amenities and the challenges faced by people living in the far-flung region. Residents raised several issues, including the absence of electricity, poor road connectivity, shortage of drinking water, limited healthcare facilities and inadequate telecommunication services. Tribal elders also highlighted the difficulties faced by residents during harsh winter months and sought better access to government welfare schemes, including the VB-G-RAM scheme. Addressing the gathering, the MP said geographical remoteness should not prevent people from accessing basic facilities and government services. No region is too distant when it comes to resolving the genuine grievances of our people. I am here to ensure that your voice reaches the highest halls of governance, he said. Mian Altaf assured residents that their demands would be taken up with the concerned authorities and the government. He called for expediting pending infrastructure projects and improving the delivery of essential services to remote settlements. He also assured that demands for better road connectivity, improved telecommunication networks and establishment of health sub-centres would be taken up with the concerned departments for consideration in future development plans. Residents appreciated the MP's visit and said direct interaction with elected representatives provided an opportunity to highlight the difficulties faced by people in remote areas.
AIP seeks 40-year age limit for J&K Bank recruitment
Srinagar, November 10: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Tuesday urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to raise the upper age limit for Open Merit candidates to 40 years in the ongoing Jammu and Kashmir Bank recruitment process. Inam said the government should take an immediate decision on the issue without linking it to Jammu and Kashmir's Union Territory status or the restoration of statehood. He said that with 1,356 vacancies advertised and the upper age limit for Open Merit candidates fixed at 30 years, thousands of aspirants risk losing an opportunity despite waiting for recruitment for several years. The AIP spokesperson also called for a review of the reservation policy, saying concerns over the distribution of employment opportunities among Open Merit candidates needed to be addressed. He further demanded that J&K Bank make public its post-wise and category-wise reservation roster, including horizontal reservations and backlog vacancies, to ensure transparency in the recruitment process. He, however, said any review of the reservation framework must safeguard the legitimate constitutional rights of reserved communities. The Chief Minister must honour his promise. Raise the Open Merit upper age limit to 40 years, address the reservation rationalisation issue without further delay and make the Banks reservation roster public. Our youth cannot afford to lose more opportunities waiting for decisions that are long overdue, Inam said.
NC's history of sacrifices cannot be undermined by political rhetoric: Tanvir Sadiq
Srinagar, November 10: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) Chief Spokesperson and Zadibal MLA Tanvir Sadiq on Tuesday hit back at the Leader of Opposition, saying that claims about weakening the National Conference reflected a lack of understanding of the party's history and political legacy. Perhaps the Leader of Opposition needs a history lesson. The National Conference is not a political outfit that came into existence yesterday. It is an institution built on decades of struggle, immense sacrifices and the blood and sweat of generations who stood up for the rights and dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Those who have little understanding of this history should refrain from making such fanciful claims, Sadiq said. He said the party had withstood political conspiracies, difficult periods and repeated attempts to undermine its organisational strength, but its bond with the people remained intact. Let me make this absolutely clear: even if the Leader of Opposition were to mobilise his entire party against the National Conference, he would not be able to make even a small dent in our organisation. The NC draws its strength from the people, its history and its sacrifices. Political adventurism and wishful thinking cannot erase a legacy that has been built over generations, he said. Sadiq said that while some political leaders remained preoccupied with rhetoric and predictions about the NC's future, the party was focused on governance, fulfilling its commitments and addressing public concerns. Earlier, Sadiq undertook a tour of various areas of his Zadibal constituency, including New Colony Lal Bazar and interior areas of Nowshera, to review ongoing development works and assess public grievances. During the visit, he directed the concerned authorities to take up the repair and restoration of Nowshera Ghat, which, according to the statement, has become rodent-infested and is causing inconvenience to residents. He also visited the residence of Misra Bano, a widow from Hawal whose house was damaged in a natural calamity. Taking note of her circumstances and the responsibility of raising her daughter, Sadiq provided her financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh and assured her of further support. He said efforts would be made to expedite the establishment of the proposed Fire Station at Lal Bazar and ensure its transfer to the Fire and Emergency Services Department so that it could be made operational without further delay. Later, during a surprise visit to Primary Health Centre (PHC) Lal Bazar, he interacted with patients and attendants, reviewed the functioning of the facility and took note of the difficulties faced by people. He assured that the issues raised would be taken up with the concerned authorities for redressal.
Save Nilnag Front seeks authority, master plan for lake's conservation
Srinagar, November 10: The Save Nilnag Front on Tuesday called on Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather and sought focused government intervention for the conservation, restoration and planned development of Nilnag lake in south Kashmir. During the meeting, the delegation submitted a memorandum highlighting the historical, ecological and tourism significance of Nilnag and called for the constitution of a dedicated Nilnag Development Authority and preparation of a comprehensive five-year master plan for the area. The Front acknowledged the developmental initiatives undertaken in the constituency over the years, particularly in road connectivity, infrastructure, education, healthcare and electricity distribution. However, it stressed the need for a coordinated and time-bound approach to protect Nilnag's ecological character while tapping its tourism potential. In its memorandum, the Front stated that Nilnag, situated in the Pir Panjal forests, finds mention in historical accounts, including the Rajtarangini , and has also been documented by British historian Sir Walter Lawrence in his book The Valley of Kashmir . It said the lake could emerge as an important eco-tourism destination if its development was undertaken in an environmentally sustainable manner without disturbing its natural surroundings and ecological balance. Among its key recommendations, the Front proposed a high-level committee comprising representatives from the departments of Tourism, Forest and Ecology, Flood Control and Irrigation, Revenue, Gardens and Parks, Roads and Buildings, Floriculture, Fisheries, Jal Shakti and Soil Conservation to ensure coordinated planning and implementation. The delegation said a dedicated development authority with a clearly defined mandate would help streamline conservation measures, infrastructure development and tourism-related activities in the area. The Speaker heard the representatives and appreciated their concerns and suggestions regarding the preservation and development of Nilnag. He assured the delegation that the matter would be taken up with the concerned higher authorities for consideration and that all possible efforts would be made to explore measures for the conservation, restoration and planned development of the lake.
Jugal Kishore, Jammu MLAs seek relief for fire-hit traders from CM Omar
Jammu, November 10: Member of Parliament from Jammu Jugal Kishore Sharma and several MLAs from Jammu district on Tuesday called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and sought financial assistance for traders affected by recent fire incidents in Jammu city. During the meeting at the Civil Secretariat, the public representatives apprised the Chief Minister of the damage caused by fires at Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station, Warehouse near Nehru Market and Pahari Mohalla. They highlighted the difficulties being faced by affected traders and shopkeepers and urged the government to extend financial assistance to help them recover from the losses. The Chief Minister said relief was being provided to those affected by the fire incidents and assured the representatives that all possible assistance would be extended to the traders. Abdullah had earlier visited Shiv Market to assess the damage and interact with affected shopkeepers. He had also deputed the Deputy Chief Minister and a Cabinet Minister to visit Warehouse near Nehru Market to assess the situation and take stock of the losses suffered by traders. Those who called on the Chief Minister included Jugal Kishore Sharma, Jammu North MLA Sham Lal Sharma, Bahu MLA Vikram Randhawa, RS Pura-Jammu South MLA Narinder Singh Raina, Jammu West MLA Yudhvir Sethi and Jammu East MLA Arvind Gupta. Meanwhile, Surankote MLA Choudhary Mohd Akram also called on the Chief Minister and discussed developmental issues and public welfare concerns related to his constituency.
MLA Sajjad Shafi calls for Clean and Green Uri
Srinagar, Nov 10: Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Uri Dr Sajjad Shafi on Tuesday attended a Capacity-Building Session on Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, as the chief guest at Government Degree College Uri. The programme was organised by the Municipal Committee Uri and presented by Swaaha Resource Management Pvt Ltd. The session focused on proper waste segregation, scientific waste disposal, reducing plastic usage and creating awareness about environmental protection. In a statement issued here, it described the programme as an eye-opener initiative for Uri. Shafi emphasised that students are the future of Uri and can play a vital role in building a cleaner and greener society. He urged students to say No to Plastic and become ambassadors of cleanliness and environmental awareness in their respective villages and communities. He stressed that keeping Uri clean and green is a collective responsibility and called for active public participation in promoting responsible waste management practices. Our goal should be a Clean Uri and Green Uri, and students must lead this positive change, Sajjad added.
