Hakeem Yaseen backs NEET aspirants, seeks accountability
Srinagar, July 25: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) President and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Saturday expressed support for protesting NEET aspirants, saying their concerns should have been addressed before the situation escalated. In a statement, Hakeem said the grievances raised by students regarding the NEET examination were not addressed in time, leading to distress among lakhs of aspirants and their families. He said the alleged use of force against protesting students could have been avoided through timely intervention and responsible decision-making by authorities. Calling for accountability in the education system, Hakeem said responsibility must be fixed wherever lapses occur. He added that the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had become necessary in view of the concerns raised by students across the country. Hakeem urged the government to ensure a transparent and fair examination system where student grievances are addressed promptly. The youth are the future of the nation. Their voices should not be ignored, and every effort must be made to protect their rights, dignity and aspirations, he said.
CPI(M) hails student protests, demands NTA overhaul
Srinagar, July 25: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) Polit Bureau on Saturday congratulated students and youth across the country for their protests demanding accountability over alleged paper leaks, saying their movement reflected the strength of Indian democracy. In a statement, the CPI(M) said the protests were driven by the determination of students and youth, supported by sections of society, despite facing repressive measures by authorities. The party welcomed the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan but said it should be followed by the disbanding of the National Testing Agency (NTA), which it held responsible for repeated paper leak controversies. The CPI(M) reiterated its demand for decentralisation of examinations and called for scrapping the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, alleging that it promoted commercialisation, centralisation and communalisation of education. The party said unless structural reforms were introduced, issues related to paper leaks and denial of opportunities to students would continue. The CPI(M) also urged student and youth organisations to continue campaigning for reforms concerning the future of young people.
Sagar reviews Hazrat Hamza Urs preparations
Srinagar, 25 July: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference General Secretary Haji Ali Muhammad Sagar Saturday asked the district administration to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the smooth observance of the annual Urs of Hazrat Mehboob-ul-Aalam, Sultan-ul-Arifeen Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA), scheduled to be observed in the coming days. In a statement issued from the party headquarters Nawa-e-Subha, Sagar said that thousands of devotees from across Jammu and Kashmir are expected to visit the revered shrine at Makhdoom Sahib, Srinagar and called upon the administration to make all necessary arrangements well in advance to facilitate people visiting the revered shrine. He stressed the need for uninterrupted electricity and drinking water supply, sanitation, adequate healthcare facilities, proper traffic regulation, parking arrangements, security and cleanliness in and around the shrine precincts. He also urged the Srinagar Municipal Corporation, PHE, PDD, Health, Traffic Police, and other line departments to work in close coordination to ensure that devotees do not face any inconvenience during the Urs. Sagar said the annual Urs of Hazrat Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA) is a spiritually significant occasion that attracts devotees from every corner of the Valley, reflecting the revered saint's enduring message of piety, compassion, communal harmony, and service to humanity.
Former actress Mateena Jeelani joins Apni Party
Srinagar, July 25: Former actress, model and social media influencer Mateena Jeelani joined the Apni Party on Saturday along with her associates during a function held at the party headquarters. Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, along with senior party leaders, welcomed Jeelani into the party and extended their best wishes. Jeelani, a native of Rajwar in Handwara, has a background in acting, modelling and social media, and enjoys a significant public following. Welcoming the new entrants, Bukhari expressed confidence that Jeelani's induction would strengthen the party's organisational base in Rajwar and enhance its outreach among the people. The joining programme was attended by senior party leaders and party workers.
After winning polls, Srinagar MLAs forgot people: Bukhari
Srinagar, July 25: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Saturday accused Srinagar MLAs of neglecting public issues, alleging that elected representatives had failed to fulfil promises made during the 2024 Assembly elections. Addressing a gathering at the party headquarters in Srinagar, organised to felicitate newly elected District President Srinagar Zaffar Habib, Bukhari said the citys residents were facing several challenges, including unemployment, poverty, inadequate housing and civic issues. He alleged that the ruling party leaders had made several promises during the elections, including free electricity, LPG cylinders, additional ration quota, government jobs and regularisation of daily wagers, but had failed to deliver after coming to power. How do you sleep while the people who voted for you continue to suffer? Bukhari asked while targeting Srinagar MLAs. He said the Apni Party remained connected with people at the grassroots and would continue to highlight their concerns at every forum. He particularly flagged issues faced by youth, including unemployment and alleged harassment. Bukhari assured that the party would work towards addressing public grievances through immediate relief measures and long-term solutions. Congratulating Zaffar Habib on his election as Srinagar district president, Bukhari expressed hope that his appointment would strengthen the partys organisational base in the city. Apni Party General Secretary Rafi Ahmad Mir also congratulated Habib, saying his election through a democratic process reflected the partys commitment to internal democracy. He assured him of full support in carrying out his responsibilities.
NC hits out at opposition, highlights Omar govts flood response
Srinagar, July 25: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) Provincial President Kashmir Showkat Ahmad Mir on Saturday accused opposition parties of indulging in political gimmickry and said the Omar Abdullah-led government was focused on governance, development and addressing public concerns. In a statement issued from the party headquarters at Nawa-e-Subha, Mir alleged that the PDP, Apni Party and Peoples Conference were raising issues unrelated to the aspirations and day-to-day problems of the people. He said the NC government was working on multiple fronts, including strengthening civic infrastructure and pursuing the constitutional demand for restoration of statehood. Mir said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had taken the issue of statehood to New Delhi through a peaceful and constitutional battle, while the government continued development and public welfare initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir. Referring to the recent flash floods, landslides and heavy rains, Mir said the natural calamity had tested the administration but the government responded with resolve and compassion. He said the Chief Minister and his cabinet members were personally monitoring rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts, adding that ministers had visited affected areas despite difficult conditions. Mir also mentioned that MP Mian Altaf Ahmad and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary had a narrow escape while visiting flood-hit areas, saying it reflected the governments commitment to stand with affected people. He said restoration work was being expedited and urged opposition parties to rise above political differences and contribute constructively during the crisis instead of spreading propaganda and misinformation.
Govt working for long-term flood mitigation plan: Rana
Poonch, July 25: Continuing his visit to flood- and landslide-hit areas, Minister Javed Ahmed Rana on Saturday called for long-term disaster mitigation measures, directing officials to identify vulnerable locations and prepare permanent protection plans against landslides and flash floods. The Minister visited Dhara Sangla in Surankote and interacted with the families who suffered losses in the recent landslides and flash floods. The visit formed part of the Ministers extensive tour of flood and landslide-affected Pir Panjal region over the past several days, aimed at assessing the ground situation, reviewing relief and restoration efforts and ensuring timely assistance to the affected population. At Dhara Sangla, Rana offered condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and assured them that the Government shares their grief and stands firmly with them during this difficult time. He was accompanied by MLA Surankote, Choudhary Mohammad Akram along with officers from various departments. The Government stands firmly with every family affected by this tragedy. We will remain with you through this difficult time and ensure timely support, including immediate relief, rehabilitation assistance and compensation, to help you rebuild your lives, the Minister said. He also told the residents that the Government is closely monitoring the situation and remains fully committed to restore normalcy at the earliest. During the ongoing tour, the Minister has been visiting some of the worst-hit villages and remote habitations, interacting with the affected families and inspecting damage to homes, roads, water supply schemes, irrigation facilities and agricultural land. He is also reviewing the pace of relief and rehabilitation works being carried out by the district administration and line departments. While taking stock of the restoration of essential services, Rana emphasised that the relief process must remain people-centric and responsive. He directed the officers to ensure that genuine cases of loss are assessed promptly and that eligible families receive relief and compensation without unnecessary delay. He reiterated that the Government will continue to monitor the situation closely until normalcy is fully restored. He directed the concerned to restore damaged roads, drinking water schemes, power infrastructure and other public utilities on war footing to ease hardships for the affected population.
CULTURE In the bustling streets of Kashmir, amidst the clamour of modernity, there exists a relic of our cultural richness, a symbol of our culinary tradition that refuse to be forgotten the customary Chochvor or telvora traditional savoury yeast-leavened local bread that thrives even today in the vibrant culinary delights. Compared to other kinds of local bread, Kandar Tchot like bakirkhani, lawasa, sheermal, kulcha, etc, Chochvor serves as reminder of the importance of preserving our rich cultural roots. Chochvor is more than just a kind of local bread; it is a symbol of antiquity, sustainability, community and resilience. As we cherish the aroma of the freshly baked bread and savor the flavors of tandoori delicacies, Chochvor keeps the flame of local bread baking custom burning bright even today. Although Chochvor is small in size; it is famous all over the Valley for its taste. Compared to a dense doughnut, it is soft in texture, savory in taste usually with a hole in the middle and stretchy with a crusty top with sesame seeds Til, sprinkled over it during baking that gives it another name Telvor. Best served with traditional Nun Chai or Kahwa as a morning or evening tea snack, Chochvor in Kashmir is a gift to have, straight journeyed from Iran with Shah-e-Hamadan (RA) where it too is baked in tandoor. Unlike other kinds of local bread, Chochvor hold a special place in the hearts of Kashmiris. It gets sold like hot cakes, and people love to take it fresh for breakfast. It is a stomach-friendly bread that is in great demand everywhere in the valley. Chochvor is one of the most loved breads from our bakers. Its more than breadit carries our culture, taste, tradition, hospitality, community life and is symbol of our heritage. In the past, when people traveled anywhere, they carried Chochvor along because it stayed fresh and satiated their hunger. Back then, only the Kandar community baked it in tandoors. But, now, it is baked at home too. I recall, when in childhood, I had fever. My parents would give me Chochvor with Nun Chai. They believed it helped cure us. Every Friday at our village Madrasa, we were served Chochvor with Kahwa. We sip Kehwa with Chochvor even today. But, honestly, the unique taste, and aroma in the Kehwa of that Darasgah with Chochvor won't be found anywhere. Each district of Kashmir has its special bread. While Pompore is famous for Sheermal, Shopian for Kripan, Anantnag for Katlum, Baramulla for Kulcha, Srinagar for Bakirkhani & GirdaSopore & Bandipora is famous for the best quality Chochvor in the whole valley.Today, Chochvor isnt just baked in the Valley.Our women abroad carry the sweet tradition forward, baking it in their home ovens. One often misses Kashmiri bread, especially Chochvor outside, because it symbolizes Kashmiriyat. It is our identity, and happens to be a significant part of Kashmiri culture. As far as the other kinds of local bread, Chochvor is the crown. It is everyone's favorite, says Dr Rafiq Masoodi, noted writer, erstwhile secretary, cultural academy & ADG Doordarshan. Come; lets pass on our age-old flavors and keep the tradition of baking bread that ties us to our culinary heritage. (The author is an educator and can be reached at: manzurakash@yahoo.co.in )
Beyond Apples: Kashmir's Blueberry Opportunity
Few fruits have shaped the destiny of a region the way the apple has shaped Kashmir's. For decades, orchards stretching across the Valley have sustained an entire economy, providing employment, income and identity to hundreds of thousands of families. Yet this very success has bred a vulnerability of its own. A warming climate, shrinking and increasingly degraded land, rising input and labour costs and a market that swings between glut and scarcity have all combined to remind growers and planners alike that an economy built around a single crop is an economy perpetually at risk. The search for alternatives that can sit alongside, not replace the apple, has therefore become urgent. Among the contenders, one small, dark fruit is quietly making a strong case for itself: the blueberry. Turning a Soil Constraint Into an Opportunity Apples do best in soils that are neutral in pH, precisely the conditions that define most of Kashmir's traditional orchard belts. Blueberries, by contrast, are unusually adapted to acidic conditions and require soils with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5, a range that is unsuitable for many conventional fruit crops. This apparent limitation is, in fact, a major opportunity for Kashmir. The Valley contains substantial areas of acidic and degraded lands, including certain Karewa uplands, brick-kiln-affected sites, eroded hill slopes, and other marginal lands with poor soil fertility and low suitability for traditional horticultural crops. Many of these areas remain underutilised or are left fallow because crops such as apple perform poorly under such conditions. Blueberry cultivation offers a unique opportunity to bring these lands into productive use. By exploiting the crop's natural adaptation to acidic soils, these otherwise unproductive areas can be transformed into economically viable horticultural enterprises, thereby expanding Kashmir's horticultural area without competing with the prime agricultural lands already devoted to apple production. A Small Fruit with an Outsized Market What makes the proposition genuinely attractive is the blueberry's standing in the global marketplace. Marketed worldwide as a superfood on account of its rich antioxidant, anthocyanin and vitamin content and linked to benefits ranging from better heart health to sharper cognitive function, the blueberry has ridden the global wellness wave to become one of the most sought-after fruits on supermarket shelves. The numbers reflect this appetite. The global blueberry market, valued at well over three billion dollars in 2025, is projected to nearly double within a decade, while worldwide production crossed two million tonnes for the first time only recently. India's own import bills for the fruit have risen sharply over the past year, a clear sign that domestic demand is racing ahead of domestic supply. For Kashmiri growers, this gap represents an opening: fresh blueberries routinely command prices well above those of conventional fruit, and the potential rewards multiply further when linked to organised retail, the hospitality sector and processing units producing jams, juices and dried berries. Easier on the Farmer, Kinder to the Land Beyond economics, blueberries bring agronomic advantages that matter in a Valley where farm labour is becoming scarcer and costlier by the year. Unlike apple trees, which demand intensive pruning, canopy management and elaborate training systems through much of the growing season, blueberry bushes are naturally compact and far less labour-intensive to maintain. Once established, they ask for comparatively modest care, a quality that could make them especially attractive to smallholders and to families where younger members are increasingly reluctant to take up the demanding routines of traditional orchard work. Two Roads Into Cultivation Kashmir's geography offers growers more than one way in. Where field soils are unsuitable, blueberries can be grown in grow bags or containers filled with specially prepared acidic media; a method that has gained popularity worldwide precisely because it allows precise control over soil acidity, drainage and nutrition, sidestepping the limitations of native soil altogether. Where naturally acidic mountain soils already exist in the upland regions, direct field planting becomes a real possibility. Combined with the Valley's temperate climate, its reliable winter chilling essential for the plant's fruiting cycle and access to irrigation water, several upland pockets could emerge as genuine commercial cultivation zones, not merely experimental plots. Getting the Basics Right None of this potential will be realised without attention to fundamentals. Healthy, true-to-type planting material from reputable nurseries is the starting point; poor-quality stock, whether from seeds or unreliable sellers, can doom a plantation before it begins. Growing media rich in organic matter like pine bark, peat moss, cocopeat and similar acidic substrates need to be incorporated to recreate the conditions blueberries demand. Mulching helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds and stabilise root-zone temperatures, while regular irrigation is non-negotiable given the plant's notably shallow root system, particularly during flowering and fruit development. Planting more than one compatible variety, even where some cultivars are self-fertile, can noticeably improve pollination, fruit set and berry size, details that, taken together, separate a thriving plantation from a struggling one. Comparative Advantage of Blueberry Cultivation Blueberries possess significant comparative advantages as a high-value fruit crop for Kashmir. Under suitable management, blueberry plants start bearing fruit in the second year after planting, producing approximately 0.5 kg of berries per plant. As the plants attain full bearing at around 45 years of age, yields can increase to 2-3 kg per plant. The plants can be spaced at 0.7 m x 1.5 m accounting for approximately 482 plants/kanal (9500 plants/ha), keeping a minimum yield of 1-1.5 kg/ plant, we could harvest around 14000 kg/ha. With a modest farm gate price of Rs 1000/kg, we are looking for a revenue of more than a 50 lakh/ha. Financial Feasibility and Initial Costs Blueberry is emerging as a promising alternative fruit crop in Kashmir, particularly as growers seek diversification beyond traditional apple cultivation. Several private companies and progressive farmers have already started commercial blueberry plantations in the valley, indicating increasing interest in the crop. While rabbiteye blueberries are predominantly cultivated in many parts of India due to their lower chilling requirements, they generally produce lower yields and are considered inferior in flavour and fruit quality compared to highbush blueberries. In contrast, Kashmir's temperate climate provides adequate winter chilling required for highbush blueberry cultivars, enabling their successful cultivation. Highbush blueberries are known for their superior taste, higher yields, larger berry size and greater antioxidant content, making them more desirable in both domestic and premium markets. These favourable agro-climatic conditions, coupled with the crop's high market value and nutritional benefits, make blueberry an excellent candidate for large-scale cultivation and commercialisation in Kashmir. Recognizing its potential, SKUAST-K has initiated research on blueberry cultivation and performance under Kashmir conditions. Three highbush blueberry cultivars: Spartan, Liberty, and Toro have been evaluated and have shown promising growth, adaptability and yield performance. Furthermore, the university is currently undertaking a project on the establishment of a Smart Blueberry Farm to develop advanced production technologies and demonstrate the crop's commercial viability. The initial establishment cost of a blueberry farm is relatively high, primarily due to the cost of planting material. At present, each blueberry plant costs approximately 600, although this price is expected to decrease in the future as domestic production and availability improve. With a planting density of approximately 400 plants per kanal at a spacing of 2.5 ft 5 ft, the total expenditure on planting material is about 240,000. In addition, the cultivation system requires grow bags and cocopeat, costing around 100 per grow bag and 100 worth of cocopeat per bag, resulting in an additional 80,000 (40,000 for grow bags and 40,000 for cocopeat). Thus, the combined cost of plants, grow bags, and cocopeat is approximately 320,000 per kanal. Furthermore, the installation of a drip irrigation system is estimated at 10,000 per kanal, while another 10,000 should be allocated for miscellaneous activities such as site preparation, planting, and other establishment expenses. Therefore, the overall initial investment required to establish a one-kanal blueberry farm is approximately 340,000. A Complement, Not a Competitor It would be a mistake to frame this as apples versus blueberries. The case for the blueberry rests precisely on its ability to thrive where apples cannot-on acidic, degraded and non-traditional land that currently contributes little to the horticultural economy. Used this way, blueberries do not compete with the apple sector for land, water or attention; they expand the productive base around it, giving farmers an additional, high-value income stream and the Valley's horticulture a measure of resilience it currently lacks. Realising this, however, will take more than enthusiasm. It calls for sustained research support from institutions such as SKUAST-Kashmir to identify and popularise cultivars suited to local conditions, reliable access to quality planting material, structured training for farmers willing to experiment with a crop most have never grown and market linkages that ensure the premium the fruit commands abroad and in metropolitan India also reaches the grower in the Valley. Existing schemes for horticultural diversification and irrigation support could be steered, with some intent, toward exactly this kind of initiative. The story of Kashmir's apple economy was written over decades through vision, experimentation and the willingness of farmers to adapt. The blueberry, small as it is, may be offering the Valley a chance to write a new chapter in that same tradition one berry at a time. (The author is Head, Division of Fruit Science, SKUAST-K. Feedback: ashaqpandit@gmail.com)
NCs Tanvir Sadiq Demands Mehbooba Muftis Apology Over Police Action Remarks
SRINAGAR: National Conference (NC) chief spokesperson and Zadibal MLA Tanvir Sadiq on Saturday demanded an apology from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti over her remarks on police action in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that they justified the use of force against peaceful protesters. Addressing reporters, Sadiq said the NC had invited Mufti to []
Despite Rs 2,021 Crore Flood Plan, Kashmir Continues to Face Flood Threats
SRINAGAR: Post-2014 floods, the Government of India approved two major floodmanagement projects amounting to Rs 2021 crore to safeguard the Kashmir Valley from recurring flood threats. Yet, despite these significant allocations, the situation on the ground remains unchanged, with rain continuing to trigger flood scares across the Valley, even after Rs 488 crore has already []
Kashmir Flood Threat Eases as River Levels Recede Despite Fifth Day of Rain
SRINAGAR: Intermittent rain continued across Kashmir for the fifth consecutive day on Saturday, although the flood threat eased significantly as water levels in the River Jhelum and most other water bodies began receding, officials said. According to the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, the River Jhelum was flowing below the flood declaration mark at all []
Ganderbal Residents Allege Substandard Atta Distribution Through Government Sale Centres, Seek Probe
SRINAGAR: Residents of Lar Circle in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district have alleged that substandard wheat flour (atta) is being distributed through government sale centres, prompting demands for an immediate inquiry into its quality and source of supply. Several residents claimed the flour was unfit for consumption and urged the authorities to take immediate corrective measures. []
Security Tightened Across Kashmir After Policemans Killing in Anantnag
SRINAGAR: Security forces on Saturday stepped up checking and surveillance across several parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar, Pulwama and Kulgam, following the recent killing of a police head constable in Anantnag and in response to specific intelligence inputs. In Srinagar, police conducted an extensive checking drive at Lal Chowk, M.A. Road and Residency Road, where []
South Kashmir: Police Seize Vehicles Used in Alleged Illegal Mineral Extraction
SRINAGAR: Police in south kashmirs Shopian district have seized an LNT machine, a JCB and two dumpers allegedly involved in the illegal extraction and transportation of minerals in the Turkwangam area. According to police, the action was taken during a routine patrol by a team from Police Post Turkwangam, which intercepted the machinery and vehicles []
Delhi-Based Production Firm Faces Police Case Over Illegal Drone Operation in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: Police have registered a case against a Delhi-based production company for allegedly operating a drone without permission during a film shoot in the upper reaches of the Nishat area on the outskirts of Srinagar. Sources said that the company allegedly used the drone in violation of the orders issued by the District Magistrate, Srinagar, []
LG Sinha chairs high-level meeting to review restoration work along Amarnath Yatra tracks
Srinagar, Jul 25: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday chaired a high-level meeting with Camp Directors and senior officers to review ongoing repair and restoration work along the Amarnath Yatra tracks following recent heavy rainfall. In a post on X, the LG said executing agencies and officials had been directed to expedite restoration work and prioritise vulnerable areas prone to mudslides and shooting stones. He said directions had also been issued to strengthen Mountain Rescue Teams, proactively share real-time weather updates and ensure that essential amenities and services remain fully operational. Chaired a high-level meeting with Camp Directors and senior officers to review the ongoing repair and restoration work along the Shri Amarnathji Yatra tracks in the wake of the recent heavy rainfall. Directed executing agencies and officials to expedite restoration, prioritise pic.twitter.com/XrkKFQuRdK Manoj Sinha (@manojsinha_) July 25, 2026
LG Manoj Sinha Reviews Amarnath Yatra Restoration, Orders Priority Repairs in Landslide-Prone Areas
SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday chaired a high-level meeting with Camp Directors and senior civil, police and security officials to review repair and restoration work along the Shri Amarnathji Yatra routes following recent heavy rainfall, directing agencies to expedite works in vulnerable stretches and strengthen safety measures for pilgrims. The meeting reviewed the []
President accepts Dharmendra Pradhans resignation; Pralhad Joshi gets Education Ministry charge
New Delhi, July 25: President Droupadi Murmu, on the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has accepted Dharmendra Pradhans resignation from the Union Council of Ministers with immediate effect, according to a press communique issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), New Delhi. The President has also directed that Cabinet Minister Pralhad Joshi be assigned the charge of the Ministry of Education, in addition to his existing portfolio, as advised by the Prime Minister. The decision has been taken under Clause (2) of Article 75 of the Constitution of India.
Pralhad Joshi Given Additional Charge of Education Ministry After Pradhan Resigns
SRINAGAR: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has been entrusted with the additional responsibility of the Ministry of Education after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from the post amid protests in Delhi over examination paper leaks. The Presidents Office confirmed the change in a communique issued after Pradhans resignation was accepted. Joshi, who is currently the Union Minister for []
Time has come to remove this govt, daro mat: Rahul Gandhi after Pradhans resignation
NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday congratulated students and youth over Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhans resignation and urged other groups to show courage and stand up, saying it is time to remove the government. He said two demands are still pending: action against all people who committed atrocities against the students protesting against []
President Accepts Immediate Resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
SRINAGAR: President Droupadi Murmu has accepted the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan from the Union Council of Ministers with immediate effect, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister, according to an official notification issued on Saturday. The resignation was accepted under Article 75(2) of the Constitution. The President has also assigned Cabinet []
Lieutenant Governor Flags Off Reading Marathon at Dal Lake, Srinagar
Srinagar, July 25, 2026: Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha today flagged off the Reading Marathon at the banks of Dal Lake, marking a unique convergence of knowledge, fitness, and environmental responsibility. The event, organised by the National Book Trust as part of Education Week, celebrates six successful years of the National Education Policy. Addressing thousands [] The post Lieutenant Governor Flags Off Reading Marathon at Dal Lake, Srinagar appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
LG Manoj Sinha welcomes Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at Srinagar airport
Srinagar, July 25, 2026: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha received Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh at the airport today in Srinagar. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor wrote: Welcomed Raksha Mantri, Shri Raj Nath Singh Ji at Srinagar airport today. The post LG Manoj Sinha welcomes Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at Srinagar airport appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
CJP withdraws protest in good faith after Pradhan's resignation, says govt agreed to all demands
New Delhi, July 25: Cockroach Janata Party on Saturday announced that it has withdrawn the 37-day-long agitation at Jantar Mantar in good faith after Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stepped down from the Council of Ministers and the outfit received assurance on other demands from the government. Addressing a press conference at the Constitution Club in the national capital, CJP's Chief Spokesperson Saurav Das said, Cockroach Janta Party declares that we withdraw the agitation in good faith, with the understanding that the agreed-upon terms will be executed within the agreed-upon timelines. Following the third round of talks with Union Ministers J P Nadda and Jitendra Singh at the Constitution Club, the CJP said that the Central government has agreed to provide suitable compensation to the families of the NEET aspirants who died by suicide and assured to withdraw the FIRs lodged against protesters anywhere in India. The CJP has presented a five-point demand charter before the government and will hold the next round of talks after four weeks. Spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said, We had demanded compensation of Rs 1 crore for the families of NEET victims. The government has agreed to this, stating that an honorary compensation will be given to those families under whatever rules and regulations allow. Apart from this, we also placed a five-point demand charter before the government, which talked about broader educational reforms and exam reforms. We will meet the government again in about four weeks regarding that demand charter so that we can work together on broader reforms. If all these demands are agreeable to the government, then we would also like to withdraw the agitation. All our demands have been accepted, so we request the protesters to withdraw immediately and return home peacefully. We will inform you of our future strategy or any other issues. But we request the protesters to withdraw immediately, he added. Several FIRs have been filed against protesters across India after the July 20 'Chalo Sansad' march at Jantar Mantar. The CJP had demanded a withdrawal of the FIRs and no legal action in the future. Das said that the government has agreed to the demand. Saurav Das said, Our second demand was that all the FIRs filed against the protesters, not just in Delhi but in all BJP-ruled and BJP-allied states, should be withdrawn. This was also our second demand. The government has accepted that demand as well. Furthermore, the withdrawal will be done shortly. The government has assured us that it will share copies of all the FIRs filed - as per our last information, 15 to 20 FIRs were filed in Delhi - and we will receive those copies within three to four days in any case. The government has also assured that the withdrawal will be done shortly. Understanding this, we have shared a draft with the government, which is a written guarantee. The government has said it will share this with us by Tuesday. We hope that by Tuesday we will receive the government's guarantees regarding these FIRs and any future action, he added. Earlier today, Dharmendra Pradhan submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and stated that he was stepping down in the larger interest of students to ensure that the country's youth do not become rapped in a web of confusion. The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), beginning as a satirical social media account from CJI Surya Kant's remarks, led the movement along with activist Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar in the national capital, demanding Pradhan's resignation. The controversy began as NEET-UG paper leak emerged in May, while the re-examination was held on June 21. (ANI)
Mateena Rajput Joins Apni Party, Citing Village Woes as Catalyst for Political Entry
Srinagar Police attaches properties worth Rs 1.35 crore under NDPS Act
Srinagar, July 25: Srinagar Police has attached two immovable properties worth approximately 1.35 crore belonging to alleged drug peddlers under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act as part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan. Srinagar Police, in a statement, said the first property, a double-storeyed residential house at Nadir Gund, Pir Bagh, Hyderpora, Srinagar, worth approximately 70 lakh, belongs to Aqib Farooq, son of Farooq Ahmad, resident of Nadir Gund, Pir Bagh, Hyderpora. The attachment was made in connection with FIR No. 16/2025 registered under Section 8/21 of the NDPS Act. The statement said Police Station Rainawari also attached a single-storeyed residential house constructed on five marlas of land at Inderhama Gassu, Batapora, Hazratbal, Srinagar, worth approximately 65 lakh, belonging to Azan Parvaiz Giltsaaz, son of Parvaiz Ahmad Giltsaaz, originally a resident of Kani Mohalla, Rainawari, and presently residing at Inderhama Gassu, Batapora, Hazratbal. The attachment was carried out in connection with FIR No. 09/2023 registered under Sections 8/21/29 of the NDPS Act. During the course of investigation, both properties were found to have been illegally acquired from the proceeds of narcotics trafficking and drug peddling. Consequently, the properties have been attached under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, including Section 68-F, subject to confirmation by the competent authority. Srinagar Police said the attachments are part of its sustained strategy to dismantle the financial infrastructure of drug trafficking networks by identifying and confiscating assets generated through the proceeds of crime. It reiterated its commitment to a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir and appealed to the public to share credible information on drug trafficking and substance abuse, assuring that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.
2 dead, 5 injured as Tempo plunges into deep gorge in Doda
Doda, Jul 25: At least two people lost their lives, while five others sustained injuries after a tempo bearing registration numberJK06B-8096 met with a tragic road accident at Jathali Mohalla in Doda district on Saturday. According to initial reports, the tempo was travelling from Jammu to Mohalla when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to plunge into a deep gorge. The vehicle was completely mangled in the crash. Soon after the accident, local residents, police and rescue teams rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation. The injured were shifted to a nearby hospital and later referred to Government Medical College (GMC), Doda, for advanced treatment. Doctors at GMC Doda provided initial medical care to the injured. Owing to the critical condition of three victims, they were subsequently referred to Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, for specialised treatment, while the remaining injured continue to receive medical attention. Police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the accident.
SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has dismissed an appeal filed by Syeda Afshana Bhat, upholding the seniority and Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) benefits granted to a fellow faculty member at the University of Kashmir and ruling that the challenge was devoid of merit as well as barred by an unexplained delay []
Two Killed, Several Injured in Doda Road Mishap
SRINAGAR: Two people were killed and several others were injured after a tempo traveller skidded off the road near Shoonsh on the DodaMahalla Road on Saturday, officials said. Officials that the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to skid off the road. Immediately after the accident, local residents and police personnel launched []
New Delhi, July 25: A delegation of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) on Saturday met with Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh at the Constitution Club of India for their third round of talks, as the government continued its engagement with the protesting group following the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG paper leak. Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh arrived at the Constitution Club to hold discussions with the CJP delegation. Earlier in the day, both ministers were seen leaving their respective residences for the scheduled meeting. The third round of negotiations assumes significance as it comes hours after Pradhan stepped down from the Union Cabinet, citing the larger interests of students and the nation. In his resignation letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pradhan said he had resigned to ensure that the ongoing protests over examination irregularities were not exploited by anti-national forces. The situation that has emerged at Jantar Mantar and elsewhere in the country should not be exploited by anti-national forces. The unity of the country must remain intact. The future of every student in India should not get entangled in legal complications, Pradhan wrote. His resignation followed weeks of nationwide protests over examination irregularities and a 26-day hunger strike led by activist Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar. The agitation has been spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which has been demanding accountability over examination paper leaks. Despite welcoming the minister's resignation, the CJP has maintained that its protest at Jantar Mantar will continue until all of its demands are fulfilled. Addressing supporters after the resignation, CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke said, Kaha jaata tha iss sarkar main istife nahi hote. Jhukti hai duniya, jhukaane vaala chahiye. We have done it, describing the resignation as the first by a Union Minister under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. Visuals from the protest site showed demonstrators celebrating and raising slogans after the announcement. Dipke said the organisation's remaining demands include compensation of Rs 1 crore for the families of students who died by suicide over examination-related issues, assurance that no action will be taken against student protesters, and action against Delhi Police personnel accused of using force against demonstrators. Activist Sonam Wangchuk also welcomed Pradhan's resignation, calling it a victory of democracy, peace, and perseverance. In a post on X, Wangchuk wrote, IT'S A VICTORY OF DEMOCRACY. direct democracy... straight from the streets. It's a victory of peace, patience & perseverance. Congratulations CJP, Gen Z of the nation and thank you all citizens for shedding fear and the fear of fear and rising up from every corner of the nation. FROM ACCOUNTABILITY, NOW TO REFORMS. Pradhan, in his resignation letter, defended the Centre's handling of the NEET-UG controversy, saying that after irregularities surfaced in the May 3 examination, the government transferred the investigation to the CBI, cancelled the examination and conducted a re-test for more than two million candidates on June 21. He also announced that the NEET-UG examination would be conducted entirely in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode from next year to enhance transparency and strengthen the integrity of the examination process. Meanwhile, the Centre is preparing to introduce a stringent anti-paper leak law providing for Special Fast-Track Courts, a Special Task Force (STF) and other measures aimed at preventing examination malpractices across the country. (ANI)
Army Major General Convicted in Rs 11 Crore Medical Procurement Scam at Jammu Military Hospital
SRINAGAR: In a rare instance of disciplinary action against a senior military officer, a Summary General Court Martial (SGCM) has found a retired Major General of the Army Medical Corps guilty of irregularities in the procurement of medical supplies worth about Rs 11 crore during his tenure as Commandant of a military hospital in Jammu. []
Sonam Wangchuk Hails Pradhans Resignation as Victory of Democracy, Calls for Education Reforms
SRINAGAR: Climate activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk has described the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan as a victory of democracy, saying the focus should now shift from demanding accountability to pursuing reforms in the education system. In his first public reaction after Pradhan stepped down, Wangchuk posted on X from his hospital bed, []
Jammu Kashmir Govt Raises Suspended DySPs Subsistence Allowance to 75 Per Cent
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has enhanced the subsistence allowance of suspended Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) Sunil Singh Jasrotia from 50 per cent to 75 per cent, in accordance with the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Service Regulations. According to Government Order No. 384-(Home) of 2026, dated July 23, 2026, the []
CJP marks first victory after Pradhans resignation, Dipke says two demands remain
NEW DELHI: Loud cheers erupted at the Cockroach Janata Party protest site at Jantar Mantar after its founder Abhijeet Dipke announced Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhans resignation before the gathering, declaring that the movement had achieved its first breakthrough. Pradhans resignation sparked scenes of celebration at Jantar Mantar, where students and members of the CJP []
Victory of democracy: Sonam Wangchuk on Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation
New Delhi, July 25: Following weeks of relentless nationwide protests and a gruelling 26-day hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The move came as a response to growing unrest over examination irregularities and paper leak allegations, particularly surrounding the NEET-UG exams. Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who spearheaded the hunger strike alongside the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and student groups, marked the development as a major milestone for direct civic action in India. Reacting to the news on X, Sonam Wangchuk commended the resilience of the nation's youth and citizens. IT'S A VICTORY OF DEMOCRACY. direct democracy... straight from the streets. It's a victory of peace, patience & perseverance. Congratulations CJP, Gen Z of the nation and thank you all citizens for shedding fear and the fear of fear and rising up from every corner of the nation. FROM ACCOUNTABILITY, NOW TO REFORMS, posted Wangchuk. Wangchuk emphasised that while holding the government accountable was necessary, the ultimate goal must now pivot toward systemic reforms within India's education structure. His remarks came after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned, stating that he had submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure that the situation arising from protests over examination irregularities was not exploited by anti-national forces. Welcoming the minister's resignation, the CJP said it would nevertheless continue its agitation at Jantar Mantar until all of its demands were fulfilled. Addressing supporters, CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke said, Kaha jaata tha iss sarkar main istife nahi hote. Jhukti hai duniya, jhukaane vaala chahiye. We have done it, describing the resignation as the first by a Union Minister under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. Visuals from the protest site showed demonstrators cheering and celebrating after news of Pradhan's resignation emerged. Dipke said the movement would continue until the remaining demands were addressed, including compensation of Rs 1 crore for the families of students who died by suicide over examination-related issues and action against Delhi Police personnel accused of carrying out a lathi charge on protesters. In a post on X, the CJP marked Pradhan's resignation as achieved but listed two demands as pending: compensation for affected families and assurance that no action would be taken against student protesters. In his resignation letter shared on X, Pradhan said he had decided in the larger interest of students and the nation. The situation that has emerged at Jantar Mantar and elsewhere in the country should not be exploited by anti-national forces. The unity of the country must remain intact. The future of every student in India should not get entangled in legal complications, he wrote. Pradhan said he had always believed in the aspirations and strength of India's youth and that the developments of the past few days had deeply saddened him Defending the government's handling of the NEET-UG controversy, Pradhan said irregularities detected in the May 3, 2026 examination prompted the Centre to immediately hand over the investigation to the CBI, cancel the examination and announce a re-test. He said the re-examination for over two million candidates was successfully conducted on June 21 with the support of state governments, district administrations, students, parents and guardians. He also announced that the NEET-UG examination would be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode from next year to strengthen transparency. Meanwhile, the Centre is preparing to introduce a stringent anti-paper leak law that will provide for Special Fast-Track Courts, a Special Task Force (STF), and other measures aimed at preventing examination malpractices across the country. (ANI)
Woman killed, two injured as house caves in amid heavy rains in Rajouri
Rajouri, July 26: A woman died and two of her family members were injured after a house collapsed in Bhatian village of Rajouri district on Saturday, officials said. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the house collapsed following heavy rainfall in the area. He said a woman was killed in the incident and two family members were injured, both of whom were rushed to Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri for treatment. The deceased has been identified as Shahida Parveen, wife of Abdul Rehman, a resident of Bhatian village. Police have taken cognizance of the incident.(KNO)
Jammu Kashmir Govt Approves Rs 15.22 Crore Upgrade of Kathua Grid Station
SRINAGAR: The Jammu Kashmir Government has approved the augmentation of the Grid Station at Kathua from its existing capacity of 350 MVA to 450 MVA, along with allied infrastructure works, at an estimated cost of Rs 15.22 crore, in a move aimed at strengthening the power transmission network in the region. The project is expected []
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns amid NEET row
The resignation comes after sustained demands from opposition parties and student groups holding the minister accountable for alleged irregularities in the country's competitive examination system
Rain to Continue Across Jammu Kashmir, Heavy Showers Likely in Jammu Division Next Week
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing rain at many places and the current spell is expected to continue till late Saturday afternoon before showing improvement, the MeT department said. An official of MeT said that today the current rain spell over most places of Kashmir division and many places of Jammu division is likely to []
Dharmendra Pradhan submits resignation amid NEET-UG row
New Delhi, July 25: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said he had submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the country. In a letter addressed to students, Pradhan said he had remained committed to students, teachers and education reforms for more than four decades. He also said the NEET-UG 2026 examination was conducted smoothly after the government took steps following irregularities reported in the examination. Pradhan said the investigation was handed over to the CBI, the examination was cancelled and a fresh date was announced. He said the government also decided to conduct the examination in computer-based test (CBT) mode from the following year. He said the NEET-UG examination for more than 20 lakh students was completed on June 21, 2026, with the cooperation of state governments, district administrations, students and parents. The minister said the results announced on July 16 were satisfactory, with several students from poor backgrounds also securing success. I have always had unwavering faith in the strength of our democracy and have deeply respected the aspirations, dreams and expectations of the youth, Pradhan said. The resignation comes amid protests and demands for accountability over irregularities in competitive examinations, including NEET-UG. Recent reports had said the resignation of Pradhan remained a key demand of the protesting students. pic.twitter.com/VSArqS98OJ Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) July 25, 2026
Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns as Union Education Minister Amid Ongoing NEET Row
SRINAGAR: In a dramatic turn of events, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has tendered his resignation to the Prime Minister, taking moral responsibility following weeks of turmoil, protests at Jantar Mantar, and widespread controversy surrounding the NEET-UG examination process. In a detailed, two-page public statement, Pradhan expressed deep anguish over the developments of the past []
Police Attach Rs 2.74 Crore Property in NDPS Case in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: Police in central Kashmirs Srinagar district on Saturday attached an immovable property valued at approximately Rs 2.74 crore under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in connection with a drug trafficking case, describing the action as part of efforts to dismantle the financial networks of narcotics syndicates. According to police, the attached []
Srinagar Police attaches property worth Rs 2.74 crore under NDPS Act
Srinagar, July 25: Srinagar Police has attached an immovable property worth approximately 2.74 crore under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act as part of the ongoing Nasha Mukti Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, a 100-day campaign aimed at eradicating the drug menace. Srinagar Police, in a statement, said the attached property comprises a double-storeyed residential house along with 12 marlas of land beneath and appurtenant to the house, belonging to accused Mubashir Ahmad Hakeem, son of Abdul Hamid Hakeem, resident of Awanta Bhawan, Soura, Srinagar. The attachment has been carried out in connection with FIR No. 142/2025 registered under Sections 8/22 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Safakadal. The market value of the attached property has been assessed at approximately 2.74 crore. This action reflects the unwavering commitment of Srinagar Police to dismantle the financial infrastructure of drug trafficking networks by targeting assets acquired through illicit proceeds. Such measures are intended to deter individuals involved in narcotics-related activities and reinforce the rule of law. Srinagar Police reiterated its resolve to continue stringent action against drug peddlers and appealed to the public to actively support the fight against drugs by sharing any information related to narcotics trafficking with the nearest police station or through official helplines. The identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
Wangchuk alleges harassment at Safdarjung before shift to Medanta; hospital clarifies
NEW DELHI: Activist Sonam Wangchuk released a video on YouTube late Friday night, recounting his experience over the past few days and sharing a clip of what transpired as he was leaving the Safdarjung Hospital after the Delhi High Court allowed him to be shifted to the Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. However, the Safdarjung Hospital []
Weather likely to improve by late afternoon today
Srinagar, July 25: More light to moderate rain and occasional heavy showers are expected over Jammu and Kashmir during the next four to six hours, with weather conditions likely to improve by late afternoon, independent weather forecaster Adil Ahmad Mir said in an update. The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast rain and thundershowers at many places from July 25 to 27, with brief heavy showers at a few places, particularly in the Jammu division during the morning hours. A fresh wet spell is likely from July 28 to 31.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke diagnosed with typhoid, says agitation will continue
NEW DELHI: Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Saturday said he had been diagnosed with typhoid but vowed that his illness would not slow the movement seeking Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhans resignation. In a video message shared on social media, Dipke said he had been unwell for the past few days and []
Rajnath Singh arrives in Srinagar to take part in Kargil Vijay Diwas event in Ladakh
Srinagar, Jul 25: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday arrived in Srinagar to take part in the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations in Ladakh, officials said. Singh arrived at the Srinagar International Airport on Saturday morning and was received here by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the officials said. They said the Defence minister is on a two-day visit to Ladakh to take part in the Vijay Diwas celebrations at Drass. Singh was scheduled to reach Drass by air, but the chopper could not operate due to inclement weather, the officials said, adding, the Defence minister then proceeded to Drass via road. The two-day Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations begin in Drass on Saturday.
LG Sinha welcomes Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at Srinagar airport
Srinagar, July 25: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday welcomed Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at Srinagar airport. Welcomed Hon'ble Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh Ji at Srinagar airport today, Sinha said in a post on X. Welcomed Hon'ble Raksha Mantri, Shri @rajnathsingh Ji at Srinagar airport today. pic.twitter.com/p2TbgjpYi9 Manoj Sinha (@manojsinha_) July 25, 2026
LG visits family of slain Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi
Assures full support to family; says committed to eliminate terrorism from J&K Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday visited Lalpora, Beerwah, Budgam to meet the family members of slain J&K Polices Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi, who lost his life in the line of duty during a terror attack in Anantnag earlier this week. []
Amit Shah speaks with slain cop, assures support
Srinagar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday spoke to the family of Jammu and Kashmir Police head constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi, who was killed in a terrorist attack in Anantnag district earlier this week. Shah spoke to Qureshis son during the visit of BJP MLA and Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma to the residence []
J&K International Film Festival curtain raiser
Idea is to rebuild Kashmirs historic bond with cinema: CM Omar Says govt committed to making region preferred location for film production Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday presided over the curtain raiser for the Ist International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) at the Royal Springs Golf Course here, describing the forthcoming []
Heavy rain eases after prolonged wet spell
Fresh spell likely from July 28: MeT Srinagar: Weather conditions improved across most parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday after a prolonged spell of heavy rainfall triggered flash floods, landslides, highway closure and widespread disruption across the Union Territory, while the Meteorological Department (MeT) said brief spells of rain and thundershowers will continue before []
Will not bow to US bullying: Araghchi rejects Washington's pressure tactics at SCO summit
Bishkek, July 25: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed that Tehran will refuse to cave to American pressure or intimidation, asserting that the country will not submit to coercion or force. According to a report by Press TV, while speaking to journalists following a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan, Araghchi addressed discussions regarding diplomatic channels. Asked about bilateral exchanges on the sidelines, he stated that the principal barrier between Tehran and Washington is not a lack of communication pathways, but rather the United States' persistent reliance on ullying and coercion. Iran has shown that it will not bow to US bullying and will under no circumstances respond to the language of force, pressure, and threats, Araghchi stressed. He noted that holding talks with Pakistan, which serves as a mediating party, concerning various proposals was a natural step. Outlining Tehran's core stance, Araghchi added, Protecting the Iranian people and protecting Iran's interests in the Strait of Hormuz are among our principles. As long as the rightful objectives and demands of the Iranian people are not realized, we will naturally continue our path, he stated, adding, We are not afraid of threats, nor will we succumb to pressure, and we do not tolerate the language of threats. Araghchi observed that Iran's armed forces on the front lines and its diplomats on the international stage are executing complementary roles in service of the nation. He urged member states of the SCO, which he characterised as a progressive organisation, to counter the unilateralist agenda of Washington and Western bodies seeking to dominate international relations. During the summit, Araghchi met with his counterparts from Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Egypt, Uzbekistan, and China on the sidelines. He noted holding detailed talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, confirming that Tehran maintains ongoing coordination with Beijing and Moscow. In his main address, Araghchi called on the SCO to take a strong stance against unilateralism, champion international law, and advocate for state sovereignty. Araghchi's remarks come as the US military has conducted air raids across the country for 13 consecutive nights. According to an informed official cited by Fars news agency, the US military targeted an LPG tanker entering from the direction of the Sea of Oman by launching two missiles, believing the vessel was attempting to transfer Iranian gas. Meanwhile, Fars reported that the US Ali Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait was struck by a drone, and the headquarters of separatist groups in Erbil, Iraq, were targeted by several airstrikes. Additionally, Press TV reported that three explosions rocked the US-run al-Juffair military base in Bahrain. Meanwhile, issuing a stern warning, Major General Abdollahi, commander of Iran's Khatam Al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, stated that from this moment onward, for every Iranian martyred, one American soldier will be targeted, adding, We have prepared free and direct tickets to hell for you. This comes as American military posture in the region remains active. On Thursday, CENTCOM said that its forces successfully completed another round of strikes against Iran targeting its military assets, marking the 13th consecutive night of operations, while injuring at least two people in the Bandar Abbas region of the Islamic Republic. In retaliation, the Iranian Army on Friday carried out a fresh wave of drone strikes targeting US military bases in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan under its ongoing Operation Lightning. (ANI)
FDA lifts 54 food samples for quality testing
SRINAGAR: Food & Drugs Administration (FDA) conducted 118 inspections of Food Business Establishments and lifted 54 enforcement samples of various food articles for laboratory analysis to assess their quality and safety. In addition, 16 surveillance samples were lifted from ICDS Centres to assess the quality and safety of food being served to beneficiaries. Three Improvement []
Police attach vehicle involved in NDPS case in Bla
BARAMULLA: Continuing its sustained crackdown against drug trafficking and narcotics-related offences, Police in Baramulla have attached a vehicle involved in an NDPS case in accordance with the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. A Tata Punch (Model 2023) bearing Registration No. JK05L-7844, having an approximate market value of 3.70 lakh, has []
Scores offer fateha at resting place of Lt Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Provincial President Kashmir Showkat Mir Friday led senior party functionaries, legislators, office bearers and heads of various wings to the final resting place of the party stalwart and former Additional General Secretary Late Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal at Sonawar where they offered Fatiha and prayed for the elevation []
DDC Poonch visits flash flood-hit villages
POONCH: Poonch District Development Commissioner Ashok Kumar Sharma on Friday visited villages affected by flash floods in Hari-Marhote, Surankote subdivision, to assess damage and review relief efforts. Accompanied by senior officials, he inspected damage to roads, shops, school buildings, riverbank protection, farms, crops, irrigation channels, and other infrastructure. He interacted with affected families, listening to []
EOW Kashmir files chargesheet against man for duping youth with Cambodia job offer
Srinagar, Jul 25 : The Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Kashmir, of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet in FIR No. 19/2026 under Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against Mohd Yaseen Rather, son of Nisar Ahmad Rather, resident of Kripalpora Payeen, Pattan, before the Court of Judicial Magistrate 1st Class. In a statement issued on Saturday, the EOW said the investigation was initiated on a complaint alleging that the accused fraudulently promised the complainant a job as a Computer Operator in Cambodia with a monthly salary of Rs. 90,000. Believing the promise, the complainant transferred lakhs of rupees into the bank account of the accused and also spent substantial amounts on visa processing, travel and other related expenses. However, upon reaching Cambodia, he was forced to engage in online scamming activities instead of being provided the promised employment. The investigation established the allegations as proved, and the chargesheet has accordingly been filed before the competent court. The general public has been advised to remain vigilant against such economic frauds and report any such incidents to the SSP, EOW Kashmir (Crime Branch J&K). Victims of economic fraud may also submit their complaints via email at sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in
Crime Branch Kashmir Files Chargesheet Against Man in Cambodia Job Fraud Case
SRINAGAR: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Kashmir, of the Crime Branch, Jammu and Kashmir, has filed a chargesheet against a man accused of duping a job seeker with a false promise of employment in Cambodia, where the victim was allegedly forced into online scamming instead of the promised job. According to officials, the chargesheet in []
Light to Moderate Rain Likely Across Jammu Kashmir Today
SRINAGAR: Light to moderate rainfall is expected at most places across Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, while a few areas may receive heavy showers, according to the latest weather forecast. The weather office said the threat of shooting stones, landslides and flash floods would continue during the day, particularly in vulnerable and hilly areas, and []
Say no to drugs, yes to books: LG Sinha urges youth to embrace reading
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday flagged off a five-kilometre Reading Marathon at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) here, urging the youth to reject drugs, cultivate a lifelong reading habit and contribute towards building a greener and healthier society. Addressing students, teachers, academicians and participants, Sinha, described the Reading Marathon as a unique []
LG Sinha flags off Reading Marathon at Dal Lake
Srinagar, July 25: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday flagged off a Reading Marathon on the banks of Dal Lake, describing it as a celebration of knowledge, fitness and responsibility towards nature. Thousands of young readers and runners from colleges and universities across Jammu and Kashmir participated in the event organised by the National Book Trust as part of the Chinar Book Festival. The Reading Marathon, held as part of Education Week, marks six years of the National Education Policy. With the motto Run for a Green Future, the event highlighted the importance of taking education beyond classrooms and protecting nature through sustained efforts. In a post on X, Sinha said, I urge every participant to take three resolutionsmake reading a daily habit, dedicate themselves to environmental conservation and commit to bringing positive change in society. Today at the banks of Dal Lake, flagged-off the Reading Marathon, a unique celebration of knowledge, fitness, and responsibility towards nature. Thousands of young readers and runners from colleges & universities of Jammu Kashmir joined this inspiring event organised by National pic.twitter.com/qOEQhaUS59 Manoj Sinha (@manojsinha_) July 25, 2026
Flood Threat Eases Across Kashmir as River Jhelum Levels Continue to Fall
SRINAGAR: Water levels in the River Jhelum remained below flood declaration marks at all major gauging stations on Saturday morning, with the Irrigation and Flood Control (IFC) Department reporting a declining trend at most locations, while the Meteorological Department said the immediate threat of a general river flood across Kashmir has receded following an improvement []
Health Department Urges Caution Across Kashmir Amid Adverse Weather
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Health Department on Saturday issued a public health advisory for residents across Kashmir, urging people to take precautionary measures against weather-related illnesses and accidents as heavy rainfall has affected several parts of the Valley over the past several days. The department said the recent spell of heavy rain has led []
Wangchuk rejects deal with Centre charge, says ended fast fearing crackdown like Ladakh
New Delhi: Activist Sonam Wangchuk rejected allegations of striking a deal with the Centre and said he ended his 26-day hunger strike only after securing a written assurance as he feared an imminent crackdown on protesters in Delhi, recalling the 2025 firing on youths in Ladakh, and wanted to prevent any violence against students. In []
Amarnath Yatra resumes after six-day suspension; 6269 pilgrims leave Jammu for Baltal
Banihal, Jul 25: The Shri Amarnath Yatra resumed on Saturday after remaining suspended for six days due to inclement weather and the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway following heavy rain, landslides and shooting stones. The decision to resume the pilgrimage was taken after weather conditions improved and the authorities reviewed the safety of the route. According to the Joint Police Control Room, Bhagwati Nagar, Jammu, a fresh convoy of 6,269 pilgrims left the base camp at 2:42 a.m. for the Baltal route in 223 vehicles, comprising 118 buses, 60 mini-buses and 45 light motor vehicles. The convoy included 4,720 men, 1,458 women, 25 children, 54 sadhus and 12 sadhvis. With the latest batch, the total number of pilgrims who have departed from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu this year has reached 119,029, according to official figures. The pilgrimage had been suspended since July 19 after persistent rainfall triggered landslides, mudslides and shooting stones at multiple locations along NH-44, posing risks to pilgrims and other commuters. The Yatra resumed after weather conditions improved and restoration work on the highway made travel feasible. Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ramban Arun Gupta accompanied the Yatra convoy up to the Lambar Ground Langar site in Banihal to oversee arrangements and ensure the smooth and safe movement of the pilgrims.
Inclement weather: Shri Machail Mata Yatra 2026 deferred till Jul 27
Kishtwar, Jul 24: The annual Shri Machail Mata Yatra 2026, originally scheduled to commence on July 25, has been deferred till July 27 due to inclement weather, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma said on Friday. He said the weather situation will be reviewed before resuming the pilgrimage and reiterated that online registration and RFID cards are mandatory for all pilgrims undertaking the yatra. The Deputy Commissioner said the Holy Kapaat of the sacred shrine of Shri Machail Mata Ji will reopen on the 25th as per the rituals, with the priests and locals at Machail performing the traditional rituals. Thereafter, keeping in view the prevailing weather, the pilgrimage for devotees will start from July 28, subject to an assessment of favourable weather conditions. The new SOPs introduced this year are aimed primarily at the safety and convenience of pilgrims. Registration has been made 100 per cent online and mandatory and an RFID system has been introduced. Under the RFID system, the movement of every pilgrim will be tracked. The necessary infrastructure has already been installed to monitor pilgrim movement and ensure that vulnerable areas, including steep gorges and landslide-prone stretches, do not witness overcrowding. The DC informed that the Yatra starts from Jammu. The total distance from Jammu to Machail Bhawan is 304.7 km, of which only 1.7 km has to be covered on foot, while the remaining stretch is motorable. At the last motorable point, Darshini Deodi, drinking water, power, sanitation, toilets and parking have been arranged. A small bus stand with a holding capacity of 50-70 vehicles has been established at Darshini Deodi, Machail, which will carry pilgrims from Gulabgarh. Pilgrims will be allowed to travel only between 5:00 AM and 5:00 PM. A daily cap of 8,000 pilgrims has also been fixed and once the limit is reached, the remaining registered pilgrims will be allowed to proceed the following day. The Deputy Commissioner urged all pilgrims to complete their registration before commencing the Yatra. Online registration can be completed through the official portal http://www.srimachalmatayatra.com, which carries step-by-step guidelines. Pilgrims are required to register their mobile number, verify it through OTP and add the details of accompanying family members. Two RFID Yatra Registration Counters have been established at the Base Camp, Gauri Shankar Temple, Sarkoot, Kishtwar and six to seven counters set up at Gulabgarh according to the expected influx of pilgrims. The DC clarified that no pilgrim will be allowed to proceed beyond the first security check at Deondi Morh without an RFID card. RFID has been made mandatory for all pilgrims, including children, as it will enable authorities to monitor crowd movement, identify gatherings at vulnerable locations and ensure timely guidance and assistance. Police personnel have been deployed at vulnerable locations to generate awareness among pilgrims against halting there. SSP Kishtwar Naresh Singh said Police, NDRF, SDRF, Army and Special Police pickets have been deployed along the Yatra route to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims. The SSP appealed to devotees to read and strictly follow the SOPs, observe the prescribed travel timings and cooperate with the administration. ADC Kishtwar Pawan Kotwal was also present on the occasion.
FDA conducts inspections, lifts food samples for testing
Srinagar, Jul 24: Food & Drugs Administration (FDA) has conducted 118 inspections of Food Business Establishments and lifted 54 enforcement samples of various food articles for laboratory analysis to assess their quality and safety. In addition, 16 surveillance samples were lifted from ICDS Centres to assess the quality and safety of food being served to beneficiaries. Three Improvement Notices were also issued to Food Business Operators for deficiencies observed during the inspections. Further, FDA, J&K, has conducted 1,642 inspections with effect from 1st July 2026 till date and lifted 878 enforcement samples and 223 surveillance samples, comprising of 250 samples of Milk and Milk Products, 217 samples of Oils and Fats, 178 samples of Cereals and Cereal Products, 243 samples of Spices, and samples of other food commodities. 89 Improvement Notices were also issued to Food Business Operators. Consumers are requested to report any suspected cases of unsafe or adulterated food through Toll-Free Helpline No. 104 or by email at cfsjandk.fnd@jk.gov.in.
DC Kupwara reviews MY Bharat implementation;
Kupwara, Jul 24: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Shrikant Suse, on Friday chaired a review meeting to assess the implementation and progress of the Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) initiative with emphasis on accelerating youth registration and strengthening inter-departmental coordination. At the outset, the District Youth Officer, MY Bharat, gave a detailed presentation on the objectives, registration process and activities being undertaken under the initiative. He informed that nearly 45,000 youth have been registered on the MY Bharat portal against the district target of 1.05 lakh registrations. The District Youth Officer informed that MY Bharat, established by the Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, is a technology-driven national platform aimed at empowering youth through volunteerism, experiential learning and active civic engagement. The platform connects young people with government departments, educational institutions, industry, voluntary organisations and communities, enabling them to participate in leadership development, skill-building, mentorship, community service, national campaigns and other nation-building initiatives. It also provides digital credentials and opportunities for youth to build their professional profiles through meaningful participation in developmental activities. Reviewing the progress, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the need to adopt a mission-mode approach to achieve the registration targets within the stipulated timeframe. He directed all stakeholder departments to strengthen coordination and intensify awareness campaigns to maximise the enrolment of eligible youth. He particularly emphasized mobilising students through schools, colleges and ITIs, besides leveraging outreach activities of the Health Department and other line departments to expand the registration drive. The Deputy Commissioner observed that greater participation under MY Bharat would not only foster leadership, social responsibility and community service among youth but also enable them to contribute meaningfully towards inclusive development and the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. The meeting was attended by the Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Assistant Commissioner Panchayats (ACP), Chief Planning Officer (CPO), Chief Medical Officer (CMO), District Information Officer (DIO), Superintendent ITI Kupwara, Lead District Manager (LDM) and other concerned officers and representatives of stakeholder departments.
The show must go on, Trump says at White House correspondents dinner rescheduled after shooting
WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump addressed a huge roomful of journalists Friday night at a correspondents dinner rescheduled from April after a shooting upended the first edition. Said the president: As I said three months ago, the show must go on. Trump entered the ballroom to polite applause, and was thanked for his support by White []
DC Kulgam visits flood-prone areas of Gudder, Laisoo
Kulgam, Jul 24: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Shahzad Alam on Friday visited the flood-prone areas of Gudder and Laisoo to take an on-ground assessment of the prevailing rainfall situation and review the preparedness of the district administration in view of the ongoing inclement weather. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner inspected vulnerable locations and inspected road damages, reviewed the water level in the Vishow river and assessed the precautionary measures put in place by the concerned departments to safeguard lives and property. He directed the officers to remain vigilant and ensure round-the-clock monitoring of all flood-prone areas, besides maintaining close coordination for timely response to any emergency. The DC appealed to the public to avoid venturing near rivers, streams, and other water bodies during the ongoing spell of heavy rainfall and urged them to follow the advisories issued by the district administration. Later, the DC visited Rescue Centre located in Government Middle School Gudder, where nomadic families have been temporarily accommodated as a precautionary measure. He interacted with the families, enquired about their well-being and inspected the facilities being provided at the shelter. The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned officers to ensure the availability of all essential amenities, including safe drinking water, food, electricity, sanitation, healthcare, bedding, and other basic necessities for the relocated families. The DC was accompanied by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Vikar Ahmad Giri; Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), D H Pora, Bashir ul -Hassan; AEE, PMGSY D H Pora; AEE, Flood Control and officers from concerned departments, who briefed him about the preparedness measures and the ground situation.
Javed Rana visits landslide-hit Nandi Chool, consoles bereaved families
Poonch, Jul 24: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today visited remote Nandi Chool area of Tehsil Mandi in Poonch district, to meet the families devastated by the recent landslide and flash floods that resulted in the loss of several lives and caused extensive damage. Amid the grief-stricken surroundings, the Minister met the bereaved families, listened to their accounts of the tragedy and expressed deep sympathy with them. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences, assuring the affected families that the Government stands firmly by them during this difficult time. Expressing profound grief over the loss of lives, the Minister said the tragedy had deeply saddened the entire district. No words can truly lessen the pain of losing a loved one but I want every bereaved family to know that the Government stands firmly with them in this hour of grief. We are committed to extend all possible support and ensure that every affected family receives the assistance needed to rebuild their lives with dignity, said Minister Rana. Taking stock of the situation on the ground, the Minister directed the district administration and concerned departments to ensure immediate relief, proper rehabilitation and timely disbursement of ex-gratia relief to the next of kin of the deceased. He also issued instructions for a thorough assessment of damages and swift restoration of essential services in the affected areas. The Minister further directed the officers of the Jal Shakti, Irrigation & Flood Control and Forest Departments to take immediate preventive measures in vulnerable areas to avert further loss of life and property during the ongoing monsoon season. Raiyaz Bashir Naz, former DDC and other prominent citizens accompanied the Minister during his visit. The officers of the Revenue, Rural Development, PWD, Jal Shakti, Irrigation & Flood Control and Forest Departments were also present on the occasion.
DPIIT Director visits NIT Srinagar's Greenovator Incubation Foundation, reviews startup ecosystem
Srinagar, July 24: Director, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, Dr. Bhuvnesh Pratap Singh on Friday visited Greenovator Incubation Foundation (GIF), the Inclusive Technology Business Incubator hosted at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar to review its startup ecosystem, interact with entrepreneurs, and assess ongoing efforts to promote innovation and technology-led entrepreneurship in Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Bhuvnesh was accompanied by CA Tripti Shinghal Somani, Founder of WOMENNOVATOR Global Incubator for Women, and Shabir Hussain Shah, Faculty Member, Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI). The visiting delegation toured the Greenovator Incubation Centre, including its Fabrication Laboratory (Fab Lab) and startup cubicle spaces, where incubated startups showcased their products, technologies, and entrepreneurial journeys. The interaction focused on innovation, technology commercialisation, market access, product development, investment readiness, and scaling opportunities for emerging enterprises. The DPIIT Director held detailed interactions with startup founders, encouraging them to develop technology-driven solutions capable of addressing societal challenges while creating sustainable business opportunities. He also appreciated the quality of innovations emerging from the incubator and stressed the importance of strengthening linkages between academia, industry, government, and investors to build a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. They also reviewed the incubation facilities and acknowledged the efforts being undertaken by Ms. Sana Aftab, CEO and Mr. Jehangir Hameed, Incubation Manager, in strengthening the innovation and startup ecosystem through incubation, mentorship, capacity building, and industry engagement. In his message, Director, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia described the visit as a significant recognition of the institute's growing innovation ecosystem. He said the institute remains committed to promoting research-driven entrepreneurship by providing students and innovators with world-class incubation facilities, mentorship, and industry exposure. He added that Greenovator Incubation Foundation has emerged as an important platform for translating research into commercially viable technologies and generating employment through innovation. Registrar, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, said the institute is consistently working to create an enabling environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can flourish. He noted that collaborations with national institutions such as DPIIT and ecosystem partners provide valuable opportunities for startups to receive expert guidance, connect with industry stakeholders, and access larger markets. Such engagements, he said, inspire young innovators to transform ideas into impactful enterprises. During the visit, the delegation reviewed the incubation infrastructure and appreciated the efforts of Sana Aftab, CEO, Greenovator Incubation Foundation, and Jehangir Hameed, Incubation Manager, in strengthening the startup ecosystem through incubation support, mentoring, capacity building programmes, industry partnerships, and innovation-driven initiatives. The visit highlighted the importance of collaboration among government agencies, higher educational institutions, incubation centres, and industry partners to accelerate technology commercialisation and strengthen the startup ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.
CS reviews arrangements for 80th I-Day celebrations
Srinagar, Jul 24: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a high-level meeting of senior officers of the Civil Administration and Police to review the preparations for the 80th Independence Day celebrations across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Administrative Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners, ADGPs, IGPs, Deputy Commissioners, SSPs, Director Information, Directors of School Education (Jammu/Kashmir), Directors of Health Services (Jammu/Kashmir), senior officers of the Police and Civil Administration, besides representatives of various security agencies. The Chief Secretary took a comprehensive review of the arrangements being put in place for the main Independence Day functions at Srinagar and Jammu, besides celebrations to be held at the district, sub-division, tehsil, block and Panchayat levels across the Union Territory. Emphasising the significance of the national occasion, Dulloo directed all the concerned departments to ensure meticulous planning and seamless coordination for the successful conduct of the celebrations. He stressed that all arrangements should be completed well in advance to facilitate smooth participation of dignitaries, students and the general public. Reviewing the cultural programmes, the Chief Secretary called for showcasing the rich cultural heritage and composite traditions of Jammu and Kashmir through high-quality performances. He emphasised greater participation of school students and youth to instil patriotism and national pride. He also directed the Police and Traffic authorities to ensure comprehensive security arrangements and effective traffic management around all venues so that participants and visitors do not face any inconvenience. In view of the prevailing weather conditions, Dulloo instructed the concerned departments to make adequate arrangements for drinking water, shaded seating, medical assistance and emergency response facilities, particularly for school children and other participants. The Chief Secretary further stressed upon maintaining high standards of sanitation, uninterrupted power supply, proper illumination and beautification of venues. He directed the concerned departments to ensure that all public utilities remain fully functional during the celebrations. He asked the Information Department to install and thoroughly test the Public Address System (PAS) and other audio-visual equipment well before the full-dress rehearsal, while maintaining adequate backup arrangements to address any unforeseen eventuality. Dulloo also instructed all Heads of Departments, Divisional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners to illuminate major government buildings, offices, bridges and other iconic public infrastructure to commemorate the 80th Independence Day celebrations. He directed the district administrations to issue invitations to public representatives, freedom fighters, ex-servicemen, families of martyrs, eminent citizens and other invitees well in advance to facilitate their participation in the celebrations. During the meeting, officers informed that contingents of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Armed Police, CRPF, BSF, IRP, Lady Police, Fire & Emergency Services, NCC, NSS and various educational institutions would participate in the ceremonial parade and cultural programmes at the main venues. The meeting also reviewed arrangements relating to sanitation, healthcare, drinking water, power supply, transport, seating, parking, emergency services and other logistical requirements. The concerned officers assured the Chair that all arrangements would be completed in a timely manner and reviewed regularly to ensure flawless conduct of the celebrations. It was informed that full-dress rehearsals for the Independence Day celebrations would be conducted prior to August 15 to ensure smooth execution of all ceremonial events across the Union Territory.
6,000 pilgrims leave Jammu as Amarnath Yatra resumes
Jammu: The annual Amarnath Yatra resumed from Jammu on Saturday, July 25, after remaining suspended for six days due to inclement weather, with a fresh batch of over 6,000 pilgrims leaving the Bhagwati Nagar base camp for Baltal base camp in Kashmir Valley, officials said. On July 19, the yatra was suspended as a precautionary 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 .
SKUAST-K trains all Kashmir KVKs on Kisan Sarathi 2.0
Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), through its Directorate of Extension in collaboration with KVK Ganderbal, on Thursday organised a one-day capacity-building workshop on Kisan Sarathi 2.0 to strengthen digital agricultural extension and enhance technology-driven advisory services for farmers. Around 60 extension professionals, including Programme Coordinators, Subject Matter Specialists, faculty members and representatives from all ten Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of Kashmir, were trained in creating, disseminating and managing digital advisory content through the Kisan Sarathi 2.0 portal. Director Extension and Dean, Faculty of Horticulture, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, called for greater adoption of digital tools in agricultural extension and urged scientists to contribute high-quality technical content to the portal for wider dissemination of scientific recommendations among farmers. Addressing the valedictory session, Dr Parvender Sheron, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Zone-I, Ludhiana, said digital platforms such as Kisan Sarathi 2.0 can significantly strengthen last-mile delivery of scientific advisories by providing authentic, location-specific and farmer-centric information, thereby bridging the gap between research and farming communities. The technical session was led by Dr Ashish Santosh Murai, Senior Scientist and Nodal Officer, Kisan Sarathi 2.0, who demonstrated the portals features, including content creation, multimedia dissemination, farmer query management and expert advisory services. He encouraged participants to actively use the platform to enhance farmer-scientist interaction and improve digital extension services across the region. The workshop concluded with interactive discussions on digital communication strategies and preparation of quality extension content, with participants expressing confidence that the training would strengthen digital advisory delivery across Kashmir.
Collective punishment unjust: Mirwaiz on crackdown, house demolitions
Calls for probe into policemans killing Welcomes bail to Khurram Parvez, Irfan Mehraj SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, addressing the Friday congregation at the historic Jama Masjid Srinagar, expressed serious concern and anguish over large-scale detentions, questioning, and harassment of youth across Kashmir during the past few days, with over two thousand young []
Justice has two standards: Er Rashid on Kashmir vs Delhi protests
NEW DELHI: Amid the ongoing disruptions in Parliament, MP Baramulla Er Rashid on Friday strongly protested against mass detentions and the bulldozing of residential houses (of militants) in Kashmir. As soon as the House assembled, Er Rashid entered the Well of the House and protested against mass detentions and the demolition of residential houses in []
JKSA slams DU, JNU advisories against peaceful protests in Delhi
SRINAGAR: The Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has strongly condemned advisories issued by the University of Delhi (DU) and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), warning students against participating in ongoing peaceful protests at Jantar Mantar. The associations described these advisories as regressive, arbitrary, and incompatible with the constitutional values that universities are meant to uphold. []
Chief Secy reviews J&Ks digital push with BISAG-N
SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Friday led a high-level review in Srinagar on July 24 to assess the progress of IT and e-Governance projects across Jammu and Kashmir, implemented in collaboration with BISAG-N. The meeting included key officials such as the Commissioner Secretary of IT Saurabh Bhagat, BISAG-Ns Vinay Thakur, administrative secretaries, departmental heads, []
SKUAST-K trains KVKs on Kisan Sarathi 2.0 to boost digital farmer advisory services
SRINAGAR: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), through its Directorate of Extension in collaboration with KVK Ganderbal, on Thursday organised a one-day capacity-building workshop on Kisan Sarathi 2.0 to strengthen digital agricultural extension and enhance technology-driven advisory services for farmers. Around 60 extension professionals, including Programme Coordinators, Subject Matter Specialists, faculty []
UK warns Gaza food insecurity remains at crisis levels
Urges greater aid DUBAI: The UK government has voiced alarm over worsening food insecurity in Gaza after the latest report by the UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification warned that conditions are expected to deteriorate further. In a statement on Thursday, a spokesperson for the UKs Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said the report showed []
DPIIT Dir visits NIT Sgrs Greenovator Incubation Foundation
Calls for stronger collaboration to boost innovation in J&K SRINAGAR: Director, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, Dr. Bhuvnesh Pratap Singh, IAS, on Friday visited the Greenovator Incubation Foundation (GIF)the Inclusive Technology Business Incubator hosted at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar to []
Resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan non-negotiable: CJP to union ministers
NEW DELHI: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Friday told the government that its demand for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhans resignation is non-negotiable and asked for a public apology to the protesting students who were brutally thrashed on July 20. In a meeting with Union ministers J P Nadda and Jitendra Singh, the CJP also []
Police deploys facial recognition system to identify wanted criminals
NEW DELHI: Four facial recognition system (FRS) units have been installed around the protest site at Jantar Mantar to identify wanted criminals, absconders and historysheeters, police sources said on Friday. The surveillance system is not for ordinary protesters but is meant to identify those with criminal antecedents who may try to infiltrate the protest and []
Rahul shows pellet gun injuries of protester to slam govt
Says stop assaulting our students NEW DELHI: Dharmendra Pradhan is a criminal education minister, a symbol of the collapse of Indias education system and must be removed, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi demanded on Friday as he presented before the media a student protester who was allegedly shot with pellet gun by security personnel during the []
J&K startups win big at ASCEND J&K 2026
Srinagar, Jul 24: Jammu and Kashmirs largest-ever Startup Ecosystem Summit, ASCEND J&K 2026 Where Mountains Meet Momentum, concluded at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) here on Friday, marking a major step towards connecting promising startups from the Union Territory with national investors, accelerators, mentors and ecosystem leaders. Organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) under the aegis of the Industries and Commerce Department, the two-day summit witnessed high-level panel discussions, startup pitching sessions, investor meetings, masterclasses and networking engagements aimed at strengthening the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. The summit generated significant investment interest, with 20 startups from Jammu and Kashmir pitching their business ventures before 14 investors and investment networks. Seven startups were shortlisted for further evaluation and due diligence, creating potential pathways for investment, acceleration and strategic partnerships. Among the major outcomes, two startups secured funding support and investment commitments of up to 1 crore, reflecting growing investor confidence in ventures emerging from Jammu and Kashmir. Srinagar-based startup EcoBuddy received an investment commitment in the range of 75 lakh to 1 crore from LetsVenture, a leading technology-enabled platform for investment in early-stage startups across sectors. Founded by Muhammad Farukh Usman, EcoBuddy provides technology-driven waste-management solutions and eco-friendly packaging materials, addressing emerging environmental and sustainability challenges. Another Srinagar-based startup, Curve Electric, attracted funding support from Build3 Accelerator and angel investor Komal Nailwal, further strengthening the regions startup investment landscape. The concluding day commenced with a panel discussion on Role of Incubators in Scaling J&Ks Startup Ecosystem. Moderated by Chintan Bakhshi of IIM Ahmedabad, the session brought together incubation leaders from prominent national and local incubation centres. The panellists deliberated on the evolving role of incubators in nurturing innovation, providing technical and managerial support, facilitating technology transfer, enabling market access and helping startups scale sustainably. They emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among academia, industry, government institutions and incubators to build a vibrant and globally competitive entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Union Territory. The second panel discussion, titled From Mountains to Momentum: Building the Next Generation of Startup Ecosystems, featured successful founders from Jammu and Kashmir who shared their entrepreneurial journeys, challenges and experiences of building enterprises from the region. Moderated by Shradha Sharma, Founder of YourStory, the session highlighted how startups from Jammu and Kashmir are developing innovative solutions across diverse sectors and expanding their presence at the national level. The founders encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to remain resilient, strengthen their business models and leverage technology, mentorship and market networks to achieve sustainable growth. The summit concluded with an interactive masterclass on How to Be Investment-Ready, delivered by noted investor and entrepreneur Shanti Mohan. The masterclass offered practical guidance on building scalable business models, understanding investor expectations, preparing for fundraising, strengthening financial and operational planning and developing compelling investment pitches. The session helped participating startups identify gaps in their investment preparedness and better position their ventures for future growth. Running parallel to the panel discussions and masterclasses, structured investor-pitching sessions and one-on-one meetings enabled startup founders to directly engage with venture capital firms, angel investors, accelerators and investment networks. The interactions focused on business models, market potential, scalability, revenue strategies, funding requirements and long-term growth plans. These engagements provided founders with valuable feedback and opened opportunities for further discussions, mentorship and investment partnerships. The second day witnessed enthusiastic participation from startup founders, investors, incubators, mentors, industry experts, academicians and ecosystem stakeholders from across the country. The quality of discussions and investment engagements reaffirmed ASCEND J&K 2026 as a significant platform for connecting local innovation with national capital, expertise and markets. ASCEND J&K 2026 brought together startups, venture capital funds, investors, policymakers, industry leaders, academicians, incubators, mentors and ecosystem enablers on a common platform, transforming the summits theme, Where Mountains Meet Momentum, into meaningful investment conversations and growth opportunities. Organised under the J&K Startup Policy, the summit reflects the Governments commitment to building a robust, inclusive and innovation-driven startup ecosystem that enables young entrepreneurs to transform ideas into sustainable enterprises, attracts private investment and generates employment opportunities across Jammu and Kashmir. With startups securing funding support, investment commitments and further investor consideration, ASCEND J&K 2026 concluded as a landmark initiative in Jammu and Kashmirs journey towards becoming an emerging hub of entrepreneurship, technology and innovation.
