Rural areas flag gaps amid smart meter installation
Srinagar, Nov 08: The installation of smart electricity meters across villages in Kashmir has triggered questions among residents, who say the government is prioritising technological upgrades while failing to address basic deficiencies in the power distribution infrastructure. From villages where electricity poles are missing to areas where wires hang dangerously close to rooftops and roads, residents argue that installing smart meters without first strengthening the distribution network defeats the very purpose of modernising the power sector. Locals say the government is pushing ahead with smart meter installation, but several villages continue to struggle with basic electricity-related problems, including damaged infrastructure, irregular inspections and unchecked power theft through illegal hooking. What is the use of installing smart meters when there are no proper electricity poles in our village? In several places, wires are hanging dangerously, and people have been managing this situation for years. The government should first ensure basic infrastructure before talking about smart electricity, said Lal Hussain Kohli, a resident of Charunda village of Uri. Residents allege that the situation is particularly frustrating in rural and far-flung areas, where electricity infrastructure has remained inadequate despite repeated complaints. They say that while smart meters are being installed at household level, the department has failed to ensure regular field inspections to detect illegal connections and unauthorised hooking. The department is installing smart meters in every household, but who will check the illegal hooking? There are places where people openly use hooks to draw electricity, and nobody comes to inspect the lines. Ordinary consumers are being asked to pay their bills, but what action is being taken against those stealing electricity? Tahir Ahmad, a resident from Kupwara questioned. Locals argue that the absence of adequate field staff has further weakened the department s ability to monitor electricity distribution in villages. According to residents, there are areas where electricity lines are stretched across rooftops and open spaces, with dangling wires posing a safety risk to people, particularly children. Smart meters alone cannot improve the electricity system. If the department cannot ensure that wires are properly installed, poles are available and illegal connections are checked, then what difference will these meters make on the ground? Technology should benefit consumers, not become a substitute for basic infrastructure, said Tahir Ahmad, a local of Chadoora village of Budgam district. Residents also questioned whether the department had conducted a proper assessment of electricity infrastructure in villages before taking up the smart meter installation drive. The concerns come at a time when the government is pushing smart metering as a major component of its efforts to reduce power losses, improve billing efficiency and strengthen revenue collection. While smart meters can help record electricity consumption accurately, identify abnormal consumption patterns and improve billing transparency, residents maintain that these benefits would remain limited unless the underlying distribution system is made functional. However, a senior official of the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) said that the department is committed to improving power infrastructure in rural areas across the valley.
Army Commander reviews security in north Kashmir
Srinagar, Nov 08: Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma on Sunday visited Army units deployed in north Kashmir to review their operational preparedness and assess the prevailing security situation. During the visit, the Army Commander was briefed on key operational aspects, including vigilance, training, coordination and innovative practices being adopted by the troops to maintain a dominant posture and ensure robust security along the Line of Control (LoC) and in the hinterland. An Army spokesman said that Lt Gen Sharma interacted with personnel from all ranks and extended festive greetings to the troops. He lauded their unwavering commitment, operational alertness, professionalism and dedication to duty. Appreciating the sacrifices made by soldiers serving in challenging conditions, the Army Commander acknowledged their resolve to safeguard the nation while remaining away from their homes and families. The visit underscored the Army s continued focus on maintaining a high state of operational preparedness and ensuring security along the LoC and in the hinterland.
Indian Army personnel celebrate Diwali along Kashmir Line of Control
The News Mill
Three Sustain Injuries in Motorcycle Accident in North Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Three persons, including a minor boy, were injured in a motorcycle accident at Papchan area of north Kashmirs Bandipora district on Sunday. According to reports, the injured included two persons from Hajin and Nadihal, who were referred to SKIMS Soura for specialised treatment. The minor boy is undergoing treatment at District Hospital Bandipora. Further []
Four Held in Gambling Case in Central Kashmir, Cash and Bank Cheques Seized
SRINAGAR: Police arrested four persons allegedly involved in gambling during a raid at a premises in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Sunday and seized cash, bank cheques and other items, officials said. Police registered Case FIR No. 177/2026 under relevant sections of the Gambling Act at Police Station Ganderbal. Following the registration of the case, []
RevenuePlus Portal to Remain Unavailable Across Jammu Kashmir From Tomorrow
SRINAGAR: The RevenuePlus Portal will remain temporarily unavailable across Jammu and Kashmir from tomorrow until November 13 as the Revenue Department migrates it to the State Data Centre (SDC), according to an official government order. In a communication, the Revenue Department informed the Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir and all Deputy Commissioners that the []
Jammu Kashmir Police Orders Reshuffle, Probationary DySPs Directed to Report to Police Lines
SRINAGAR: The District Police Headquarters Ganderbal has ordered the transfer of three police personnel, assigning two inspectors as Station House Officers (SHOs) and a head constable to the districts Electronic Surveillance Unit (ESU). According to an order issued by Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal Harshal Rajesh Mahajan, IPS, on November 8, Inspector Younis Khan (175/PAU, []
No Such Decision: Ruhullah on Reports of Joining Hands With Ghulam Nabi Azad, Er Rashid
SRINAGAR: Former Srinagar Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has ruled out reports of a possible alliance with former chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and Engineer Rashid to form a new political party, saying he has made no such decision. However, Ruhullah indicated that consultations were under way to work out his future political []
Jammu Kashmir High Court Allows Plaintiff to Seek Possession of Encroached Land
SRINAGAR: The Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has dismissed a petition challenging an order permitting a plaintiff to amend his property suit to seek restoration of possession of portions of land allegedly encroached upon by a neighbouring landowner, observing that changing the relief from permanent injunction to recovery of possession does not fundamentally alter []
SRINAGAR: Police have registered an FIR against a man accused of intimidating and threatening a local resident by allegedly brandishing the service weapon of a Police Security Officer (PSO) deployed with his retired police officer father in Srinagars Hazratbal area. According to Srinagar Police, the case follows a complaint filed by Hilal Ahmad Mir, son []
NC chose my resignation over correcting its mistakes: Aga Ruhullah
Srinagar, Nov 8 : Former Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Sunday accused the National Conference leadership of choosing his resignation over addressing the concerns he had repeatedly raised about the party's failure to honour its commitments to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that his decision to part ways with the party came at the right time. Speaking to reporters in Beerwah, Ruhullah said his differences with the National Conference were rooted in its failure to pursue the political commitments made to the people following the developments of August 2019. They did not want improvement. They wanted resignation. We asked them to fulfil the promises made to the people, but they did not do so. Instead, they asked for my resignation, Ruhullah said. He alleged that the party leadership had made it clear through its actions that it was unwilling to change its political approach despite repeated demands for course correction. When they asked for my resignation instead of addressing the issues, it was a declaration that they did not want to improve. They wanted to continue with the same policy of deceit, he alleged. Defending the timing of his departure from the National Conference, Ruhullah said he had already explained the circumstances leading to his decision during his earlier public address. After 2019, we had lost everything. What was needed thereafter was a struggle and adherence to the promises made to the people. But those promises were not fulfilled, he said. Ruhullah maintained that he had repeatedly questioned the leadership over its failure to pursue those commitments and had sought corrective measures before deciding to leave. Responding to criticism from the National Conference following his departure, the former MP said he was no longer interested in engaging in a war of words with his former party. I do not want to answer the National Conference. People will answer them, and time will tell, he said. He further alleged that the National Conference had failed to discharge the responsibility entrusted to it by the people. The responsibility given to the National Conference has not been fulfilled. There has to be accountability for that, he said. Asked about his future political course, Ruhullah indicated that consultations were underway to bring together people willing to pursue the political rights of Jammu and Kashmir. We are finding a way forward. We are talking to the right people. Inshallah, you will come to know as time passes, he said. He asserted that the struggle for political rights would continue regardless of the National Conference's position. Just because an organisation was given an opportunity does not mean the struggle for our rights should stop. We will continue to fight for our rights, he said. Ruhullah also commented on international developments, particularly the impact of conflicts involving the United States and Israel, saying their consequences extended far beyond the regions directly affected. He said such conflicts had implications for economies across the world, including India, through their impact on currencies, prices and international trade. Referring to recent political developments abroad, Ruhullah claimed that people were increasingly rejecting governments and political forces they considered arrogant. He expressed hope that similar public accountability would emerge wherever political leaderships disregarded the aspirations of the people, including in Kashmir.(KNS)
Retired DySPs son held over threat with PSOs gun in Srinagar
Srinagar, Nov 08 : Srinagar Police have taken a man into custody for threatening a person by brandishing the service weapon of a Police Security Officer (PSO) at Saderbal in Hazratbal area of Srinagar, officials said on Sunday. In a statement issued to the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), a police spokesperson said the police had received a complaint from Hilal Ahmad Mir, son of Mohammad Sultan Mir, a resident of Saderbal, alleging intimidation and threats by Junaid Ahmad Band, son of retired DySP Mohammad Yousuf Band. The complaint alleged that Junaid Ahmad Band brandished the service weapon of the PSO deployed with the retired police officer during the incident at Saderbal, Hazratbal. The spokesperson said FIR No. 123/2026 under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been registered at Police Station Nigeen and an investigation has been initiated. The alleged accused has been taken into custody, and the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the use of the official weapon and the role of the concerned PSO, are being thoroughly examined, the spokesperson said. He added that further legal action would be taken based on facts and evidence established during the investigation. Srinagar Police urges the public and media fraternity to refrain from speculation and not to spread misinformation, the spokesperson said.(KNO)
Driver killed after tractor overturns in Baramulla
Baramulla, Nov 08 : A tractor driver died after his vehicle skidded off the road and overturned near Jamia Masjid Razikiya in Chandoosa area of Baramulla district on Sunday, officials said. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the tractor was travelling from Nowgam towards Chandoosa when the accident occurred. He said the driver sustained injuries in the accident and was shifted to Community Health Centre (CHC) Chandoosa, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The deceased was identified as Waseem Ahmad Khan, son of Mohammad Shareef Khan, a resident of Laridoora. Meanwhile, cognisance of the incident has been taken.(KNO)
Two Apprehended With Chinese Pistol, Grenades in Kulgam
SRINAGAR: Two persons were apprehended after security forces recovered a Chinese pistol, two grenades and ammunition from their possession during a naka checking at Paniwah area of Kulgam district on Sunday, officials said. An official said that a joint team of security personnel was conducting a naka at Paniwah when two persons coming from an []
SHO, Three Others Injured as Bus Collides with Police Vehicle on Jammu-Srinagar Highway
SRINAGAR: Four persons, including Station House Officer (SHO) Chanderkote Inspector Vicky Thapa, were injured after a passenger bus collided with a police vehicle on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway at Chanderkote on Sunday. The accident occurred when a convoy escorting Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, was passing through []
Strait of Hormuz gives Iran strategic leverage, says Iranian official
Tehran [Iran], November 8 : Secretary of the Expediency Councils secretariat in Iran Abbas-Ali Kadkhodaei on Sunday underlined that the Strait of Hormuz gives Iran strategic leverage in global affairs. Speaking at a meeting on governance, legislative, and executive challenges in implementing maritime development policies in Tehran on Sunday, he said the policies were essential to connecting the Constitutions aspirations with the countrys broader strategic direction, IRNA reported. Kadkhodaei said the Constitution could not address every issue arising from changing national circumstances, making overarching policies necessary to guide the countrys medium-term course. Iran has 38 policy areas covering various provisions, he added. Kadkhodaei said the erstwhile supreme leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, had regarded the general policies as the systems framework for coordinating the conduct of its institutions. Maritime development policies had been carefully prepared and reflected a long-term, civilizational vision, he noted. Despite having seven coastal provinces in the north and south and extensive coastlines, Iran had made limited use of its maritime resources and links to the oceans, he said. Kadkhodaei argued that recent developments in the Strait of Hormuz had shown the American public the consequences of US policymakers decisions. He warned that a significant gap remained between policy formulation and implementation, calling for faster action and closer coordination between the Expediency Council and executive bodies. During the meeting, Mehdi Hashemi, head of the councils Infrastructure Commission, said the effectiveness of maritime policies mattered as much as their stated objectives, urging Iran to make fuller use of its regional and global position. Earlier, Iran's Armed Forces Spokesman Forces, Brig. General Shekarchi on Sunday claimed that the failure of the Republican party in the recent mid-term polls in the US shows that they have not been able to break Iran's will. The political and electoral setbacks suffered by the Trump administration and its allies reflect more than domestic political shifts; they point to a greater reality: the failure of the US to break Irans will. Washingtons doctrines of aggression, assassination and maximum pressure, along with its military strategies, have failed against the deterrent power and unwavering resolve of Irans leadership, people and armed forces, General Shekarchi told Iranian media. (ANI)
PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti demands financial assistance for shopkeepers affected by Shiv market fire
Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], November 8 : PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday met shopkeepers who were affected by a massive Shiv market fire in Jammu. During her visit to the site, the PDP chief noted significant damage to local business establishments, highlighting that their shops have been completely destroyed by the fire. There has been immense loss here; moreover, they are small shopkeepers, not very big business owners, who take loans and carry debt... their shops have been completely destroyed, said Mufti. The PDP Chief urged the government to provide financial support to enable affected shopkeepers to rebuild their premises, restock inventory and earn a living to support their families. I urge the government to provide as much assistance as possible to them. They need to rebuild their shops, and since much of their stock, which they had acquired on credit, has also burned down, they are left with nothing. The government needs to take an active interest and act quickly; these shops cannot remain in this state for long. They must be provided with financial support so that they can properly rebuild their shops, restock their inventory, and once again earn a living to support their families, added Mufti. Earlier on october 26, around 35 to 40 shops were completely destroyed following a major blaze that erupted at Shiv Market opposite the Jammu Railway Station during the early hours of Monday. The authorities reported no loss of life or injuries in the incident. In Kupwara, on August 22, a fire broke out in three residential houses at Supernaghama Kralgund in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara. Huge flames were seen rising from the affected houses, with people rushing out of the buildings as the fire spread. Visuals from the spot showed thick flames engulfing the residential structures, prompting panic among residents in the area. The incident occurred at Supernaghama Kralgund, with the Fire and Emergency Services Department confirming that three residential houses were affected in the blaze. (ANI)
Driver Killed After Tipper Crashes into Load Carrier Auto in Central Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A man from Soibugh village in central Kashmirs Budgam district was killed after the load carrier auto he was driving collided with a tipper at Haji Bagh in Budgam district. The deceased was identified as Mohammed Umar Hajam, a resident of Soibugh, Budgam. He died on the spot due to injuries sustained in the []
Srinagar proposes flyovers and roads without a vision. The government must show origins, alternatives and evidence before committing public money. Srinagar is awash with proposals for flyovers, bridges and wider roads. Each promises relief from congestion. Yet bottlenecks persist, parking is inadequate, and pedestrians lack safe passage. The city has decades of transport studies. Its []
I Opposed The Release of Terrorists In 1989 and 1999: Farooq Abdullah
SRINAGAR: National Conference president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah has reiterated that he opposed the release of militants during both the 1989 kidnapping of Rubaiya Sayeed and the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814, warning that such decisions would have grave consequences for the countrys national security. In an []
SRINAGAR: The Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has set aside two revenue orders overturning a land mutation in Kathua, holding that the authorities committed a jurisdictional error by deciding the merits of an appeal without first determining whether it had been filed within the prescribed limitation period. Allowing a petition filed by 72-year-old Prem []
J-K: 4 police personnel, including SHO, injured as bus hits police vehicle in Ramban
RAMBAN/JAMMU: (Nov 8) Four police personnel, including a Station House Officer (SHO), sustained minor injuries after their vehicle overturned when it was hit by a bus on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway near Chanderkote in Ramban district on Sunday, officials said. The accident occurred shortly after the police vehicle joined the escort of BJP leader and []
Srinagar, November 08: In a proactive move aimed at strengthening the security surveillance network and preventing the possible misuse of public transport vehicles for criminal activities, Srinagar Traffic Police has directed auto-rickshaw operators to remove black cavities and opaque coverings and replace them with transparent plastic sheets, including during the winter season. SSP Traffic Srinagar said that opaque black coverings obstruct visibility and prevent authorities from monitoring activities taking place inside auto-rickshaws, potentially creating concealed spaces that could be misused for unlawful activities. We don't know what is happening inside, the SSP remarked, underlining the importance of maintaining visibility in public transport vehicles from both passenger safety and security perspectives. The police have raised concerns that such concealed spaces could potentially be exploited for the transportation and consumption of narcotic substances, drug-related activities and other criminal operations. Restricted visibility also makes it difficult for law enforcement agencies to identify suspicious movement, monitor possible illegal transactions and respond to security concerns. The measure is being viewed as more than a routine traffic regulation, with a broader focus on crime prevention, narcotics control, public security and enhanced surveillance. By ensuring visibility inside auto-rickshaws, authorities aim to minimise opportunities for the misuse of these vehicles and strengthen preventive policing. Auto-rickshaw operators have accordingly been directed to replace all black or opaque coverings with transparent plastic sheets. The arrangement will allow drivers and passengers to remain protected from the winter chill while ensuring that visibility is not compromised. The initiative reflects a preventive approach towards making public transport safer, discouraging potential criminal activities and strengthening the overall security environment in Srinagar.
Auto Driver Killed in Road Accident in Srinagar, Tipper Driver Arrested
Srinagar, November 8:An auto driver from Soibugh village in Central Kashmirs Budgam district was killed in a road accident at Haji Bagh, Sharifabad, in Srinagar district on Saturday. According to eyewitnesses, a load carrier auto bearing registration number JK04H-1422*collided with a tipper bearing registration number JK15A-1462 near Haji Bagh, Sharifabad, resulting in the on-the-spot death of the auto driver. Following the incident, a police team from Police Station Parimpora rushed to the accident site and initiated necessary legal proceedings. The tipper driver was arrested in connection with the accident. A police official from Police Station Parimpora who was present at spot said that the auto driver died on the spot and the tipper driver had been taken into custody. Further investigation into the incident is underway.
Security Agencies Seek Public Help, Announce Reward For Credible
Srinagar, Nov 8 Security agencies have put up wanted posters of four active terrorists on Srinagars M.A. Road, seeking public help in tracing them and announcing rewards for credible information. The posters carry photographs of the terrorists, including Bilal Ahmad Mir, resident of Brath Kalan Sopore, Abid Quyoam of Pattan Baramulla, Mohammad Lateef Bhat []
SRINAGAR: The Court of Additional District Judge, Srinagar, has directed a trial court to decide a petition seeking a temporary injunction in a property dispute within one week, while ordering both parties to maintain status quo on the disputed property until a final decision on the application. The court also directed the defendants to complete []
National Conference legislators aired grievances over cabinet expansion, governance and unfulfilled promises at Gupkar. Farooq and Omar Abdullah heard their demands, promising corrective measures within six months to a year, reports Mudasir Majeed Pir A major group of ruling National Conference legislators walked up the driveway at Gupkar on the morning of November 6, as []
Sagar directs adequate power supply during winter
Says amnesty scheme in pipeline SRINAGAR: Minister for Power Development Department (PDD), Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation, Disaster Management and Elections, Ali Mohammad Sagar on Saturday visited the 220/132/33 KV Grid Station at Alusteng to review the power supply scenario and assess the preparedness of the department for the upcoming winter months. During the visit, the []
RTO Kashmir stresses timely delivery of public services
BANDIPORA: Regional Transport Officer (RTO), Kashmir, Qazi Irfan on Saturdayvisited the office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO), Bandipora, and reviewed its overall functioning, administrative performance and delivery of public services. During the visit, the RTO reviewed various citizen-centric services, including issuance of driving licences, vehicle registration, permits and fitness certification. He also assessed []
Jashn-e-Harud celebrated with enthusiasm in Shopian
SHOPIAN: The first-ever Jashn-e-Harud, organised by the District Administration Shopian, was celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervour in Shopianon Saturday, witnessing an overwhelming public response and huge participation from people from different parts of the district. MLA Zainapora Showkat Hussain Ganie, MLA Shopian Shabir Ahmad Kullay, Deputy Commissioner Charandeep Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police Mushtaq []
NDRF conducts tabletop exercise to strengthen disaster preparedness
KUPWARA: District Administration Kupwara organised a Tabletop Exercise in collaboration with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) at Handwara and Zachaldara, aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness, enhancing inter-departmental coordination and ensuring an effective response to emergency situations. The programmes were coordinated by Tehsil Handwara and Tehsil Zachaldara, with Tehsildar Handwara, Zeeshan Khan, presiding over the []
Sgr awareness drives promote financial literacy, cancer prevention
SRINAGAR: Social Welfare Department (SWD), Srinagar, through SANKALPHub for Empowerment of Women (HEW), Srinagar, organized a series of Community Awareness Programmes at Khonkhan, Dalgate, with the objective of empowering women and community members through awareness, information and access to various government welfare initiatives. A Community Awareness Programme on Financial Literacy, Financial Assistance Schemes and other []
Omar Abdullah hails new Private Universities Rules
Says new framework to attract reputed institutions, expand opportunities for local youth, strengthen academic excellence Jammu, Nov 07: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has congratulated Minister for Education Shamim Firdous on the notification of the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Rules, 2026, describing it as a significant milestone in the governments efforts to expand access to []
CM Omar, LG Sinha greet people on Diwali
Pray festival brings hope, joy to every home Jammu, Nov 07: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended greetings to the people on the eve of Diwali, wishing them happiness, peace and prosperity. Abdullah conveyed his greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and to everyone celebrating the festival across India []
WD to bring rain, snowfall from Nov 12: MeT
Kashmir records above normal day temperatures Srinagar, Nov 07: Weatherman on Saturday said that Jammu and Kashmir is likely to witness a spell of rain and snowfall from November 12 onwards as a Western Disturbance is expected to affect the region. An official of the Meteorological Centre Srinagar said weather is expected to remain generally []
Ration dealers flag Rs 1 lakh security deposit, new e-KYC costs
Officials say upgrade routine, no need to panic Srinagar, Nov 07: Fair Price Shop dealers in Kashmir have raised concerns over additional financial requirements, including a Rs 1 lakh security deposit, licence fee and advanced demand of cash before taking a ration digital verification. A ration dealer said the new face authentication system could create []
AIIMS Awantipora to start OPD services this month
Kulgam, Nov 07: Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Saturday said that Outpatient Department (OPD) services at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Awantipora, are expected to commence during the ongoing month. Taking to reporters on the sidelines of inauguration of developmental projects at Gudder here in South Kashmir, Itoo said []
Parents seek change in school timings
Srinagar, Nov 07: Amid freezing morning temperatures, parents of school children of winter zones of Kashmir division on Saturday demand for a change in school timings. Parents of several school children urged School Education Department to revise the timing in educational institutes of the region from 10 am to 3 pm in Srinagar and 10:30 []
50-year-old Man Found Dead in Jammu
SRINAGAR: A 50-year-old physically challenged man was found dead under suspicious circumstances in Jaswan village of Kanachak area in Jammu on Sunday morning, officials said. An official said that the man was found dead in the area, following which police reached the spot and took the body into custody. He said the body was shifted []
Japan earthquake: 5.7-magnitude quake hits central region, injures at least 24
A 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Japan's Shizuoka region early Sunday, injuring at least 24 people, damaging shops and disrupting train services, including Shinkansen bullet trains. No tsunami warning was issued. A separate 4.3-magnitude quake hit Kumamoto later
Vijay, Stalin, Birla Greet Kamal Haasan On 72nd Birthday
Leaders Praise Actor-Politician's Contribution To Cinema, Tamil Language And Progressive Values
BJP chief Nitin Nabin, party leaders perform 'havan' on LK Advani's 100th birthday
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 8 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nitin Nabin, along with other party leaders, on Sunday performed a special 'puja' and 'havan' to mark the 100th birthday of veteran BJP leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani. The 'havan' was organised at the BJP Central Office to pray for the good health and well-being of the veteran politician. Earlier on Sunday, the BJP chief took to the social media platform 'X' to extend birthday greetings to the former Deputy PM, saying: Heartfelt birthday wishes and congratulations to the venerable Shri Lal Krishna Advani ji, Bharat Ratna recipient, former Deputy Prime Minister, and guide to us all. From the Jana Sangh to the Bharatiya Janata Party, you have made an unforgettable contribution to expanding the organisation, taking the nationalist ideology to every citizen, and turning the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement into a mass movement. Your integrity in public life and unwavering commitment to the organisation will always be a source of inspiration for all BJP workers, he added. In a video message, Nabin further said: The life of Advani ji is an inspiration for all of us. His commitment to the ideology has made the BJP, a party with a difference. The BJP chief credited Advani for building the party's leadership team during the latter's tenure, which, he said, is today not only leading the party but also the nation. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also wished Advani on his 100th birthday, referring to the latter as a living example of putting the nation first. Taking to the social media platform 'X', HM Shah said: Respected Shri Lal Krishna Advani Ji, a symbol of service to the nation, an architect of the BJP, and a principled statesman, completes 99 years today and steps into the 100th year of his life. On behalf of crores of BJP workers, I extend my heartfelt birthday wishes to him. From a humble family background to becoming a founding member of the BJP, its National President, and the Deputy Prime Minister of the country, Advani Ji's life in every role has been a living example of public service and putting the nation first, he added.
Khawaja: Made promise to Warner I'd say the truth
He said that the trio of Smith, Warner and Bancroft were the
I havent thrown anyone under the bus: Khawaja hits back amid Sandpapergate row
In his autobiography, Usman Khawaja reveals that the entire Australian cricket team was aware of the ball-tampering incident during their 2018 tour of South Africa. He addressed claims that he kept this information hidden for personal benefit, emphasizing his desire for collective accountability. Khawaja voiced disappointment in teammates unwilling to accept shared responsibility. His comments have reignited crucial discussions surrounding the scandal that rocked Australian cricket's reputation.
Indian Americans condemn Seattle Diwali disruption by far-right activist Jake Lang
Far-right activist Jake Lang disrupted a Diwali celebration in Seattle while carrying racist signs targeted at Hindus. Prominent Indian Americans including Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal condemned this hateful display, emphasizing the importance of Diwali. The Coalition of Hindus of North America advised community preparedness against similar incidents in the future. Lang's past included participation in the January 6 Capitol attack, for which he received a pardon.
Only Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath Ahead Of Him: Gurnoor Brar Joins Elite India List vs New Zealand
Gurnoor Brar is only 11 ODIs old and has taken 21 wickets so far. Seven of those have come in his last two matches in New Zealand
What Does a New Robot Inherit? WIM Names Tested Configurations, Not Just More Code
A robot-control program can be installed again, but the next robot may still refuse to move correctly. Its joints have different dimensions, its drives require particular []
Cricket-Khawaja denies throwing 'anyone under the bus' with comments about ball-tampering scandal
Usman Khawaja on Sunday denied that he had hrown anyone
'They took the blame': Khawaja defends Smith, Warner
Former Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has clarified his recent remarks on the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, stating that he believes responsibility should have been taken collectively by the team. He explained that his all of us comment was about collective accountability, not implicating specific players. Khawaja detailed his past attempts to encourage collective responsibility, including discussions with Steve Smith, Justin Langer, and Todd Greenberg, and why he remained silent for four years. He emphasised that Smith, David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft unfairly bore the brunt of the consequences, and his recent statements were not for book sales but to seek justice for his childhood friend Warner and the other two players.
Iran executes three men over armed unrest during January protests
Iran executed three
Governor Abdul Nazeer, Naidu and Jagan Extend Diwali Greetings
Naidu said Deepavali celebrates the victory of good over evil and commemorates the defeat of the demon king Narakasura, whose tyranny had brought suffering to the world
Bandi Sajay pays fee for 10,959 students in Karimnagar
Hyderabad: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, on Saturday, November 8, announced that he has paid the fee worth Rs 13.36 lakhs for 10,959 SSC students enrolled in government schools in the Karimnagar parliamentary constituency. According to Kumar, who is the Karimnagar MP, Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leaders handed over cheques 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 .
Digitisation of land records is a historic reform, but its success depends on the experience, involvement and practical knowledge of the Patwaris who work at the grassroots level. Mohd Amin Mir Respected Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar Revenue Minister, Jammu & Kashmir At the outset, I sincerely appreciate your recent directions to the Revenue Department for []
Rajasthan Board of Secondary Education has revised the examination schedule by shifting the start time to 10:30 am.
With fertility at 1.8, below the replacement level, the real question is not how many children women have, but whether families can have the ones they want Rakshanda Gul Imagine a generation of 100 women. If fertility remains around the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman, the next generation can broadly replace the present []
The Falling Leaves Of Chinar: A Lesson InThe Impermanence Of Life
When the Chinar sheds its leaves, Kashmir witnesses not merely the arrival of autumn but also a beautiful reminder that nothing in this world is permanent. The Chinar may shed its leaves every autumn, but it does not surrender its existenceit patiently waits for another spring, when fresh green leaves will once again emerge from []
Trump Offers UFC Boss Dana White White House Press Secretary Job, But He Says No
US President Donald Trump has made an unusual offer to UFC CEO Dana White. He wants the 57-year-old sports executive to become the next White House press secretary. However, White has reportedly rejected the offer, according to a CNN report. {image-danawhitedeniestrumpoffer1-13851794113039.jpg
Ill Remember This For As Long As I Can, Says Ben Treloar On His Ranji Trophy Umpiring Stint
New South Wales Cricket Umpires: Two Ranji Trophy matches, a handful of new friendships and a fresh taste for Indian cooking are some of the memories Australian umpire Ben Treloar will hold on for the rest of his life after wrapping up his maiden first-class cricket umpiring stint in the country. Treloar spent the second half of October in India before flying back to Sydney. He stood in two Ranji Trophy fixtures - the second-round Elite Group C clash between Delhi and Gujarat at the Palam Air Force B Ground, and then officiated in the third-round fixture between Mumbai and Haryana at the BKC ground in Mumbai. Treloar officiating in the Ranji Trophy games was possible due to the Umpire Exchange Programme between Cricket Australia (CA) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). From India, umpire Parashar Joshi will be in Australia to stand in two Sheffield Shield matches and one One Day Cup fixture. Absolutely - Ill be remembering this for as long as I can remember. So its been an incredible experience and Id love to come back for sure to be either umpiring or just seeing the rest of India. Its an amazing place and one that I can hopefully be able to share with my family one day in the near future, a jet-lagged Treloar said in an interaction with IANS. Treloar, who learnt of his trip to India about six weeks before travelling, came with considerable experience of officiating in 107 mens matches across first-class, List A and T20 cricket, besides two womens ODIs and seven womens T20Is. Yet the Ranji Trophy umpiring debut tested him. He stood on the field for 318.5 overs across four days of a high-scoring draw at Palam. Four days before the game began, Treloar landed in New Delhi in order to adjust to the weather and time zone. He also spent close to 10 hours touring the city with a driver and guide just hours after checking into his hotel at 2 am. The following day, just driving around Delhi, seeing the sights, learning about the history of the city. So, for me, just really embracing the culture, being out in the city, seeing the people, eating the food, getting used to the weather, all those types of things really got me ready for the game that was to be in a couple of days time, he added. He admitted to butterflies on match morning, mostly from wanting to repay the faith of CA and the BCCI, but they eased after day ones play. It wasnt lost on me how prestigious the Ranji Trophy is and the history that competition has, and the players realise that as well, and thats why they play with so much passion in India. So, definitely some nerves, but they were good nerves. It was just about really looking forward to getting the game underway and getting this Indian journey started, added Treloar. Among his fondest memories are the performances he watched up close: a knock of 199 from Priyansh Arya and a double century from Delhi skipper Ayush Badoni. In Mumbai, seeing centuries from bats of Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Musheer Khan, Nishant Sindhu, and Tanush Kotians figures of 8-81 will be forever etched in Treloars mind. Those types of things are really going to stick with me over the course of time. Being part of that and being able to be there and witness it, that was pretty special. The other things that really stuck out to me and quite obvious were how close our officiating team was. My colleagues, Vinod (Seshan) and Sadi (Sadashiv Iyer) and then the match referees as well and their contribution to the team across the two games. I didnt feel like I was coming from the outside or just joining them for a couple of games. All of them made me feel really welcome, part of the team. We just shared all of our responsibilities. So for me, thats what Im going to take out most from these games, just the teamwork that the umpires showed for each other. I made some pretty good friends for the rest of my life there, he added. As the game progressed in Palam, Treloar stopped feeling like he was officiating in a foreign country. The players, too, went out of their way. Oh yeah, a lot of the players, when they were standing next to me in the field or if we were seeing them in the morning before the game started, they just came over and said hello and asked my name and where I was from. So there was some genuine interest there around me, and I was part of that game for them. But they were very welcoming, very encouraging and just hope that I enjoyed my time in India. So it was really nice. On staying switched on through marathon batting innings from both teams at Palam, Treloar said routines honed over two decades kept him going. You fall back onto those routines, making sure youre doing the same thing every ball, and just reminding yourself where you are and bring yourself back in the moment. Were here at Palam, were umpiring Delhi and Gujarat, and were just doing the best job we can. So for me, six balls at a time, same routine, and we just umpire with what we see and hear at the other end and make decisions based on that. Asked if the low-flying aircrafts flying over his head were a distraction, Treloar stated, Yeah, it was. Weve got a similar ground here in Sydney called Drummoyne Oval, where weve got planes that come over quite regularly as well. So I kind of leant on that experience a bit, and Palam theyre a little bit closer, a little bit louder, but by the end of the game, I think, I didnt realise that they were coming over as often as they were. Treloar then drew the difference between the two venues:- on Delhis black soil, balls stayed low and slow, while Mumbais red soil helped the quicks early before breaking up. When youre in Mumbai, with the ball spinning and bouncing a bit, thats a challenge as well. The ball was bouncing higher at times than what you think, and spinning a bit more than you think as well. So youve got to catch up with tracking the ball, he said. Anticipating this, Treloar joined both squads for intense net sessions on similar surfaces two days before the game and on the eve of the clash. I did because when it started to happen during the match, it wasnt a surprise. So wed seen it beforehand and then just to give ourselves the best opportunity. Its not foolproof. Were not perfect, but you give yourself the best opportunity if you can do that practice before, he said of the preparation. Off the field, the food left a deep impression on Treloar - from rich Delhi fare of stuffed potatoes and capsicums, roti, naan and dal to lighter meals in Mumbai. On his first night back home, he cooked butter chicken, saffron rice and roti from scratch for his family. Being in India gave us a real understanding of the different flavour profiles and then being able to come here and then practise them at home and share some of that experience with my family was really special. So they loved it, which was great and thatll be the first of many different meals that well have together with that Indian flavour. Asked if he was now a cooking connoisseur, Treloar laughed. I dont know about a connoisseur, but I enjoy it. Its something away from cricket that you can lose yourself in and yeah, it makes your family happy. So thats great. I love doing it. Treloars journey began with playing cricket at 11. At 23, after three straight summers of club cricket in Australia, England and back home, he sensed his calling lay in umpiring. I did my first sort of umpiring Laws of Cricket course when I was about 16. I was still playing. I did that with my dad who came along and after we finished that, I kept playing for a bit and then I think I was about 23 or 24 when I made the decision to go into umpiring. I was playing cricket on Saturday and then I started umpiring on Sunday. I did that for a season and then once that season had finished, I think the love for umpiring and officiating took over. So, I stopped playing and then took up officiating on a more regular basis. He cleared his Level 2 accreditation through the New South Wales Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association, where he has worked full-time as an education officer for nearly six years and has been on the active umpiring circuit for 21 years. Next for Treloar are umpiring in Premier Cricket games in Sydney and a Sheffield Shield fixture, but a return trip to India remains firmly on his wish list - this time, he hopes, with his family. For now, gratitude runs deep in Treloar for the experiences the umpires exchange programme offered him for the rest of his life. Cricket Australia and the BCCI have got such a strong and positive relationship. I guess all the umpires from both boards are grateful for the investment that theyre making in umpiring and providing those opportunities for some umpires to experience conditions in different countries. Its a great opportunity for those that are involved to bring that experience back to the umpires in their home country and share those learnings and experiences from the games that theyve had. So any of that assistance that we can provide to our colleagues to help them be better in umpiring, and to help them here at home. Cricket Australia and the BCCI have got such a strong and positive relationship. I guess all the umpires from both boards are grateful for the investment that theyre making in umpiring and providing those opportunities for some umpires to experience conditions in different countries. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
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