Women and children welfare schemes in Madhya Pradesh yielding results
However, more determined efforts are needed to improve the lives of vulnerable By Raju Kumar BHOPAL: An economic survey is often regarded as a mirror of a states socio-economic condition. It does not merely present figures on growth rates, investment, and production; it also reflects the states vision and the direction in which [] The post Women and children welfare schemes in Madhya Pradesh yielding results appeared first on Northlines .
Uttar Pradesh politics is in turmoil
By Satya Prakash Assembly elections are expected in Uttar Pradesh in February-March 2027, with elections for all 403 seats in the state assembly. The frustration of the Bahujan Samaj Party, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, and the Congress party has signaled a turning point in Uttar Pradeshs politics. The current Chief Minister of the state, [] The post Uttar Pradesh politics is in turmoil appeared first on Northlines .
India positions itself as the AI Worlds third pole under PM Modis leadership
Govt and the Corporates have to do requisites follow up to achieve results By T N Ashok At the center of Bharat Mandapam, the chiselled, lotus-shaped convention complex that has become the theatre for Indias global ambitions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood for a family photo that looked less like a diplomatic formality [] The post India positions itself as the AI Worlds third pole under PM Modis leadership appeared first on Northlines .
M S Golwalkar: A saga of his transition from academia to ideologue & Guruji
By Puran Chand Sharma INTRODUCTION Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar, reverentially called GURU JI by his followers was one of the most influential ideological leaders of 20 th century India. As the second Sarsanghchalak of RSS, he shaped the organisations structure, philosophy and national reach for over three decades (19401973). Taking charge after the demise of RSS [] The post M S Golwalkar: A saga of his transition from academia to ideologue & Guruji appeared first on Northlines .
Think About Geographical Restriction: Delhi HC To NIA On Engineer Rashids Bail Plea
New Delhi, Feb 19: The Delhi High Court, while hearing a bail plea of Baramulla MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid alias Engineer Rashid in a terror funding case, on Thursday asked the NIA if it was possible to restrict his movement to one particular geographical area. Senior counsel for Rashid submitted before a bench of Justices Prathiba M Singh and Madhu Jain that he has been incarcerated for over six-and-a-half years and during this time, he was granted interim bail on [] The post Think About Geographical Restriction: Delhi HC To NIA On Engineer Rashids Bail Plea appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Peddlers Nabbed With Half Kg Of Charas In J&Ks Shopian
SRINAGAR, Feb 19: Two alleged drug peddlers were arrested with contraband in their possession in Shopian district, police said on Thursday. The arrests were made at the Keegam police post in the Aribagh Pirpora area of the south Kashmir district during a check. During a search of two individuals, the police found 508 grams of charas-like substance on them, a spokesperson said. He identified the two as Tariq Ahmad Malla and Fardeen Ahmad Malla both residents of Uthmulla of [] The post Peddlers Nabbed With Half Kg Of Charas In J&Ks Shopian appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
All Tourist Spots In J&K Likely To Reopen By May; 9 New Sites To Be Introduced: CM
Jammu, Feb 19: Highlighting the efforts to revive tourism following the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced on Thursday that all currently closed tourist destinations are expected to reopen by May. He also revealed that the government is working on plans to introduce nine new tourist destinations to further strengthen and diversify the tourism industry in the Union Territory. Winding up the discussion on Demands for Grants in the legislative Assembly here, [] The post All Tourist Spots In J&K Likely To Reopen By May; 9 New Sites To Be Introduced: CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Northern Army Commander Reviews Combat Preparedness In Siachen Sector In Ladakh
LEH/JAMMU, Feb 19: Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Thursday visited the Siachen sector and reviewed the combat potential and operational preparedness of troops. The Army commander lauded the professionalism, courage and dedication of the soldiers deployed at one of the worlds highest and coldest military zones and urged all ranks to embrace technology to effectively meet the challenges of modern warfare. Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, Army Commander Northern Command, visited Siachen Brigade to review combat potential and [] The post Northern Army Commander Reviews Combat Preparedness In Siachen Sector In Ladakh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Climate Response Now Compulsion For J&K; Need Department Studying Climate Change: CM Omar Abdullah
Jammu, Feb 19: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the climate response has now become a compulsion for the Union Territory, underlining the urgent need for a structured and institutional approach to address climate change. He also called for the formation of a specific department which will study climate change in Jammu and Kashmir. Replying to the discussion on Demands for Grants in the Assembly here, he said last years extreme weather events, including heavy rains [] The post Climate Response Now Compulsion For J&K; Need Department Studying Climate Change: CM Omar Abdullah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Army Foils Infiltration Bid Along LoC In J&Ks Rajouri
Jammu, Feb 19: An infiltration attempt by terrorists was scuttled by alert troops of the Indian Army along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, the army said. Based on Intelligence inputs and sustained surveillance, suspicious movement of terrorists was detected in the general area of Nathua Tibba in Sunderbani sector along the LoC during the early hours of Thursday, the armys White Knight Corps said. They further informed that the troops responded [] The post Army Foils Infiltration Bid Along LoC In J&Ks Rajouri appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
BRO to Upgrade Sua-1 to Pargwal Road in Akhnoor
SRINAGAR: The blacktopping and upgradation of the road from Sua number 1 to Pargwal in Akhnoor will be undertaken by the Border Roads Organization (BRO), Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary informed the Legislative Assembly on Thursday. Replying to a question from Legislator Mohan Lal, Choudhary said the road is proposed to be formally handed over []
Lieutenant Governor releases Prof. Ashok Kauls book Kashmir-Nativity Regained
Jammu, 19 February 2026: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that return of Kashmiri Pandits with full dignity and security is the commitment of Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Jammu Kashmir has been undergoing a profound transformation since 2019. Sinister plot of adversary to destroy the dreams and destiny of people of the [] The post Lieutenant Governor releases Prof. Ashok Kauls book Kashmir-Nativity Regained appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Over 4,100 Kanal Land Allocated for Industrial Estates in Anantnag
SRINAGAR: Thirteen land patches totalling 4,142.43 kanal have been transferred to the Industries and Commerce Department for the establishment of industrial estates in Anantnag, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary told the Legislative Assembly. Replying to a question from Legislator Abdul Majeed Bhat, he said the land parcels are located at Pahalgam, Bijbehara, Dooru, Shangus, Mattan, []
King Charles IIIs brother Andrew arrested by UK police in misconduct probe
LONDON, Feb 19: The UK police on Thursday arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the younger brother of King Charles III, on suspicion of misconduct in public office following damaging allegations over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Thames Valley Police said they are carrying out searches at addresses associated with the former prince in Berkshire and Norfolk, while he remains in police custody. While the force said they will not be naming the arrested man, it is being widely reported [] The post King Charles IIIs brother Andrew arrested by UK police in misconduct probe appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Wangchuk Not Given Videos Which Formed Basis Of His Detention: Wife To SC
New Delhi, Feb 19: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuks wife Gitanjali J Angmo alleged in the Supreme Court on Thursday that four videos which formed the basis of her husbands detention were not shown to him and only the thumbnails on pen drive were displayed. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing in the court for Angmo, told a bench of justices Aravind Kumar and Prasanna B Varale that not supplying the videos violated Wangchuks right to effective representation before the advisory board [] The post Wangchuk Not Given Videos Which Formed Basis Of His Detention: Wife To SC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi Committed To Return Of Kashmir Pandits With Dignity: LG Sinha
JAMMU, Feb 19: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that the return of the Kashmiri Pandit community to the valley, with full dignity and security, is a commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The L-G emphasised that the terror ecosystem in J-K tried to bury the truth, but the terrorists and their support networks who sowed terror and struck at the souls of generations will never be forgiven or forgotten. The return of Kashmiri Pandits [] The post PM Modi Committed To Return Of Kashmir Pandits With Dignity: LG Sinha appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Pahalgam to Get 50-Bedded Hospital as Jammu Kashmir Strengthens Health Facilities
SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo informed the Legislative Assembly that the department is prioritising consolidation and strengthening of existing healthcare facilities across Jammu and Kashmir in accordance with IPHS-2022 norms to improve service delivery. Replying to a question raised by Altaf Ahmad Wani, the Minister said the planning of health institutions []
Proposed India-US trade deal compromises Indias sovereignty, farmers interests: Sachin Pilot
MUMBAI, Feb 19: Senior Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Thursday strongly criticised the proposed trade agreement with the United States, alleging it compromises Indias sovereignty, farmers interests, energy security and economic self-reliance. Addressing a press conference, the Congress general secretary said trade agreements must be based on equality and mutual public interest, and cannot come at the cost of national interest or sovereignty. No trade pact that mortgages the countrys interests can be acceptable. Any agreement that attacks the livelihood [] The post Proposed India-US trade deal compromises Indias sovereignty, farmers interests: Sachin Pilot appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
DPR for 8 km Razdan Pass Tunnel to Start Shortly: Dy CM
SRINAGAR: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary told the Legislative Assembly that preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed 8-km tunnel at Razdan Pass in Bandipora district will commence shortly. Replying to a question from legislator Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi), he said the tunnel project is intended to provide all-weather connectivity to the []
Jammu Kashmir Has 28,186 Operational Anganwadi Centres: Sakina Itoo
SRINAGAR: Minister for Social Welfare Sakeena Itoo informed the Legislative Assembly that 28,186 Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) are currently operational across Jammu and Kashmir. Replying to a question raised by legislator Arjun Singh Raju, the Minister said 26,937 of these centres are functioning from rented premises. She told the House that the construction of permanent buildings []
Agniveer Dies by Alleged Suicide at Nagrota Army Camp
SRINAGAR: A 24-year-old Agniveer allegedly died by suicide after shooting himself with his service rifle at an Army camp in the Nagrota area of Jammu, officials said on Thursday. According to officials, the soldier, who hailed from Uttar Pradesh, was on guard duty at the Nagrota garrison when the incident occurred during the intervening night. []
J&K Govt To Begin Regularisation Of Daily Wagers In 2026; Fill 30,000 Vacancies: CM Abdullah
Jammu, Feb 19: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the government will initiate the process of regularising daily-rated, ad hoc and other temporary employees in a legally and financially sustainable manner in 2026, even as it works to fill nearly 30,000 vacant posts during the current year. Replying to the discussion on grants of his departments and cut motions in the Assembly, Abdullah said the issue of daily wagers and temporary workers was raised by members [] The post J&K Govt To Begin Regularisation Of Daily Wagers In 2026; Fill 30,000 Vacancies: CM Abdullah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
LoP Sunil Sharma Denies BJP Role in NLU Protests, Slams Dy CM Over Allegations
SRINAGAR: Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma on Thursday launched a sharp attack on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over the issue of establishing a National Law University in Jammu, alleging discrimination against the region. Speaking to reporters, Sharma said the Chief Minister has the prerogative to establish an NLU campus in Jammu but has failed to []
Age could be dominant factor influencing antibody production: Study
NEW DELHI, Feb 19: Age could be a dominant factor in influencing antibody production in response to a virus for a given virus, certain antibodies increase with age while others decrease, depending on which part of the virus is targeted, researchers have found. The team, including researchers from Institut Pasteur at Frances National Centre for Scientific Research, have shown that when attacked by the same virus, individuals can produce antibodies that target different parts of the virus. Biological sex [] The post Age could be dominant factor influencing antibody production: Study appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
All tourist destinations shut post-Pahalgam terror attack to reopen by May: CM Omar
Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday announced that all tourist destinations closed in the aftermath of the Baisaran Pahalgam terror incident will be reopened by May this year. Winding up the discussion on grants for the departments under his charge, CM Omar Abdullah, said that all tourist destinations shut down after the Pahalgam []
Jammu Kashmir SCARD Bank Under Liquidation; Govt Says
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday informed the Assembly that the JK State Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Bank (JK SCARD Bank) has not been declared bankrupt, but liquidation proceedings have been initiated due to prolonged financial and operational distress. Replying to clubbed starred Assembly questions by MLAs Rajeev Kumar Bhagat, Vikram Randhawa, []
About 13,000 Teacher Posts Vacant In Jammu And Kashmir: Education Minister
JAMMU, Feb 19: A total of 12,977 teaching posts are vacant across Jammu and Kashmir, and the School Education Department has not upgraded any school since 2024, Education Minister Sakeena Itoo said on Thursday. In her written reply to a starred question by BJP MLA Shri Shakti Raj Parihar in the Legislative Assembly here, the minister said 7,985 teacher posts are vacant in the Jammu division and 4,992 in the Kashmir division. According to the district-wise data, Rajouri (1,416), Kathua [] The post About 13,000 Teacher Posts Vacant In Jammu And Kashmir: Education Minister appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Those Trying To Destroy J&K Peoples Dreams Will Be Reduced To Dust: LG Manoj Sinha
JAMMU, Feb 19: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said those attempting to destroy the dreams and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir would be reduced to dust. He said that security forces are determined to dismantle the terror ecosystem but society must also join the fight by standing against terror sympathisers. Attempts are being made to eliminate those involved in terrorism. They will be given such punishment that their seven generations will remember it, [] The post Those Trying To Destroy J&K Peoples Dreams Will Be Reduced To Dust: LG Manoj Sinha appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Ganderbal, Feb 19: In a major enforcement action aimed at ensuring tourist safety and maintaining order in the sensitive Sonamarg tourist zone, Ganderbal Police on Wednesday conducted a special drive against unregistered service providers, detaining 11 photographers found operating without valid registration. In a bid to ensure public safety, maintain order, and safeguard the security of the tourist destination, Ganderbal Police conducted a special enforcement drive against Unregistered Service Providers, with particular focus on Photographers Operating without valid registration in [] The post 11 Unregistered Photographers Detained In Sonamarg; Ganderbal Police Launch Crackdown On Illegal Service Providers appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Godse factory: Cong slams BJP-RSS after Karni Sena man death threat to Rahul
NEW DELHI, Feb 19: The Congress on Thursday flagged a purported video of a man claiming to be from Karni Sena issuing death threats to Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and 25 other MPs, and said the RSS-BJP ecosystem is a Godse factory. The opposition party also alleged that there is a deliberate campaign to demonise the opposition, and legitimise violence against political rivals, especially Gandhi. The man, who purportedly issued the video threatening to shoot Gandhi and 25 other [] The post Godse factory: Cong slams BJP-RSS after Karni Sena man death threat to Rahul appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Rubio plans to update Netanyahu on US-Iran talks in Israel next week, officials say
WASHINGTON, Feb 19: Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans to travel to Israel next week to update Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the US-Iran nuclear talks, two Trump administration officials said. Rubio is expected to meet with Netanyahu on Feb. 28, according to the officials, who spoke Wednesday on condition of anonymity to detail travel plans that have not yet been announced. The U.S. and Iran recently have held two rounds of indirect talks over the Islamic Republics nuclear [] The post Rubio plans to update Netanyahu on US-Iran talks in Israel next week, officials say appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
After BJP forms govt in Punjab, no gangster will be seen in state: Union minister Bittu
CHANDIGARH, Feb 19: Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu on Thursday slammed the AAP Government over the alleged deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab, claiming that once the BJP comes to power in 2027 here, no gangsters will be seen in the state and promised decisive action against hardcore criminals. Bittu pointed to BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh as an example, questioning whether anyone there would claim that gangsters still operate freely. He made the comments during an event commemorating the birth [] The post After BJP forms govt in Punjab, no gangster will be seen in state: Union minister Bittu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Former South Korean President Yoon convicted of rebellion charges
SEOUL, Feb 19: Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was convicted of rebellion over his brief imposition of martial law in December 2024. The Seoul Central District Court is expected to sentence Yoon and several former military and police officials on Thursday. Judge Jee Kui-youn said he found Yoon guilty of rebellion for mobilizing military and police forces in an illegal attempt to seize the liberal-led National Assembly, arrest politicians and establish unchecked power for a considerable time. A [] The post Former South Korean President Yoon convicted of rebellion charges appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Indian-origin Singaporean woman jailed for slapping taxi driver over fare
SINGAPORE, Feb 19: An Indian-origin Singaporean woman was sentenced to two weeks in jail on Thursday for voluntarily causing hurt by slapping a taxi driver allegedly over fare at a police station. Shalini Devarajan, 36, refused to pay her taxi fare of SGD 24 (USD19) because she had no cash and rejected the payment options suggested by the driver. After the woman challenged him to take her to a police station, the 73-year-old taxi driver complied and that is [] The post Indian-origin Singaporean woman jailed for slapping taxi driver over fare appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Perus congress elects countrys eighth president in a decade
LIMA, Feb 19: Perus Congress on Thursday elected legislator Jose Maria Balcazar as the countrys eighth president in a decade, replacing another interim leader who was ousted the previous day over corruption allegations just four months into his term. Balcazar, an 83-year-old former judge representing the leftist Peru Libre party, defeated three other candidates with a majority of the 130-member legislature. The revolving-door presidency in Peru reflects a political crisis fuelled by a lack of legislative majorities for leaders. Lawmakers [] The post Perus congress elects countrys eighth president in a decade appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NHRC Flags Misuse Of Its Name, Logo By NGOs; Directs Authorities To Take Action
New Delhi, Feb 19: The NHRC on Thursday said it has taken cognisance of misuse of its name and logo by some NGOs registered under nomenclatures which are deceptively similar to it, and issued notices to authorities in all states and UTs to take action within two weeks. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in a statement, observed that continuation of such illusory names may erode public trust, lead to misuse of mandate, possible misappropriation of funds and create confusion [] The post NHRC Flags Misuse Of Its Name, Logo By NGOs; Directs Authorities To Take Action appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Over 3.61 Lakh Households Still Await Tap Water Coverage In J&K: Minister
Jammu, Feb 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Thursday said that about 15.6 lakh households across the Union Territory have been provided functional tap water connections under the Centres Jal Jeevan Mission, while over 3.61 lakh households are yet to be covered. In a written reply to a starred question tabled by CPI(M) MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, Minister in charge of the Jal Shakti Department, Javed Ahmad Rana said, out of a total of 19,25,535 households, tap water connections [] The post Over 3.61 Lakh Households Still Await Tap Water Coverage In J&K: Minister appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J-K Assembly admits PDP MLA Parras resolution flagging hate crimes against minorities
JAMMU:The speaker of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly has admitted a private members resolution moved by PDP MLA Waheed-Ur-Rehman Parra, strongly condemning hate crimes against minorities and calling for strict enforcement of law. The PDP legislator from Pulwama moved the resolution amid growing incidents of targeted attacks and harassment of Kashmiri students and traders in different []
Anubhav Sinha on why he made Assi: Was shocked to read accounts of survivors
A woman would have already been exploited somewhere in the country by the time we finish this conversation, says filmmaker Anubhav Sinha whose new film Assi explores the growing cases of sexual violence against women. The courtroom thriller, starring Taapsee Pannu, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, Kani Kusruti, Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub , Supriya Pathak, Revathi and Naseeruddin Shah, releases in theatres on February 20. Assi, which means 80 in Hindi, is the number of cases that are reported every day and [] The post Anubhav Sinha on why he made Assi: Was shocked to read accounts of survivors appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Our children are suffering: Sajad Lone slams verification process
Jammu: Peoples Conference president Sajad Gani Lone on Thursday said the police verification process has become a sword hanging over the necks of Kashmiri youth. Speaking in the Legislative Assembly during the Grants of Departments headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lone termed the verification process collective punishment. If a single person in your []
Freebies Culture Hampers Indias Economic Development: Supreme Court
New Delhi: The Supreme Court today said, freebies culture is hampering the countrys economic development. A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi said, most of the states in the country are revenue deficit and yet they are offering such freebies overlooking development. The Apex court was taking [] The post Freebies Culture Hampers Indias Economic Development: Supreme Court appeared first on Northlines .
Jammu, Feb 19: Ashwani Kumar, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Accredited Journalists Association, has hailed the demand for a pension scheme for retired journalists raised by Tanvir Sadiq, MLA from Zadibal Assembly Constituency and Chief Spokesman of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday in Jammu. In a statement, Ashwani Kumar said that Tanvir Sadiq has rightly understood the plight of retired journalists who worked tirelessly with pen and paper to strengthen democracy [] The post J&K Accredited Journalists Association Hailed The Pension Demand For Retired Journalists Raised By NC, MLA, Tanvir Sadiq appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K Finance Dept Orders Strict Reconciliation Of NPS Deductions
JAMMU, Feb 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Finance Department has directed all departments to immediately verify and reconcile National Pension System (NPS) contributions, stressing timely deposit of salary deductions and elimination of discrepancies in employees pension accounts. See Circular Click Here. The post J&K Finance Dept Orders Strict Reconciliation Of NPS Deductions appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
4 New Rail Lines Proposed For Kashmir Valley, Surveys Underway: J&K Govt Tells House
JAMMU, Feb 19: The Government on Thursday informed the legislative assembly that the Northern Railway is undertaking final location surveys for four new railway lines in Kashmir Valley, while assuring that landowners will be duly compensated as per law once the projects are sanctioned. Replying to an Assembly question tabled by MLA Javid Hassan Baig [] The post 4 New Rail Lines Proposed For Kashmir Valley, Surveys Underway: J&K Govt Tells House appeared first on Northlines .
50,000 Heroin Users Among 70,000 Addicts In Valley, J&K Govt Tells House
JAMMU, Feb 19: The Government on Thursday informed the legislative assembly that around 70,000 persons, mostly youth, are involved in substance use in Kashmir, out of which nearly 50,000 are heroin users, largely through the intravenous route. Replying to a Assembly question tabled by MLA Javid Riyaz, the Health & Medical Education Department, said Jammu [] The post 50,000 Heroin Users Among 70,000 Addicts In Valley, J&K Govt Tells House appeared first on Northlines .
J&K: Soldier Shoots Self Dead at Nagrota Army Camp
Jammu, Feb 19: A 24-year-old Agniveer allegedly shot himself dead with his service rifle while on guard duty at an Army camp in Nagrota on the outskirts of Jammu, officials said on Thursday. The soldier, a native of Uttar Pradesh, is reported to have taken the extreme step around midnight on Wednesday at the Nagrota [] The post J&K: Soldier Shoots Self Dead at Nagrota Army Camp appeared first on Northlines .
Filmmaker Neeraj Pandey withdraws title of Ghooskhor Pandat, SC disposes of plea
NEW DELHI, Feb 19: The Supreme Court on Thursday disposed of a plea against the upcoming movie Ghooskhor Pandat after filmmaker Neeraj Pandey informed the court that he has withdrawn the title along with all publicity material. A bench of Justices B V Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan disposed of the plea after taking Pandeys affidavit on record and said it is expected that there shall be a quietus to this controversy in all respects. Pandey said in his affidavit that [] The post Filmmaker Neeraj Pandey withdraws title of Ghooskhor Pandat, SC disposes of plea appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Four New Rail Lines Proposed For Kashmir Valley, Surveys Underway: Govt Tells House
JAMMU, Feb 19: The Government on Thursday informed the legeslative assembly that the Northern Railway is undertaking final location surveys for four new railway lines in Kashmir Valley, while assuring that landowners will be duly compensated as per law once the projects are sanctioned. Replying to an Assembly question tabled by MLA Javid Hassan Baig regarding railway expansion, the Transport Department, said the proposed new lines include BaramullaUri, SoporeKupwara, AnantnagBijbeharaPahalgam and KakaporaShopian. The government said, the alignment of the proposed [] The post Four New Rail Lines Proposed For Kashmir Valley, Surveys Underway: Govt Tells House appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Captain Vikram Batra: The Brave Sher Shah of Kargil
Bharti Sharma bhartisharma705139@gmail.com Captain Vikram Batra is remembered as one of the bravest soldiers of india.He was born on 9 September 1974 in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. He belonged to a simple and loving family. His parents were Girdhari Lal Batra and Kamal Kanta Batra. He had a twin brother, Vishal and both of them were lovingly called Luv and Kush at home. Vikram completed his schooling from D.A.V Public School and Kendriya Vidyalaya in Palampur. Later, he joined D.A.V College [] The post Captain Vikram Batra: The Brave Sher Shah of Kargil appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Soldier Shoots Self Dead At Army Camp In Jammu
JAMMU, Feb 19: A soldier allegedly shot himself dead with his service rifle at an Army camp here, officials said on Thursday. The 24-year-old Agniveer, hailing from Uttar Pradesh, was on guard duty at the Nagrota garrison when he allegedly took the extreme step around Wednesday midnight, they said. The soldier died on the spot and his body was shifted to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital for post-mortem. The reason behind the soldiers extreme step is yet to be [] The post Soldier Shoots Self Dead At Army Camp In Jammu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
50,000 Heroin Users Among 70,000 Addicts In Valley, Govt Tells House
JAMMU, Feb 19: The Government on Thursday informed the legeslative assembly that around 70,000 persons, mostly youth, are involved in substance use in Kashmir, out of which nearly 50,000 are heroin users, largely through the intravenous route. Replying to a Assembly question tabled by MLA Javid Riyaz, the Health & Medical Education Department, said Jammu & Kashmir, like many other regions of the country, is confronted with the menace of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, posing serious social and public [] The post 50,000 Heroin Users Among 70,000 Addicts In Valley, Govt Tells House appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
OBC Quota In Local Bodies Envisaged, J&K Govt Informs House
JAMMU, Feb 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Thursday informed the House that no final decision has yet been taken on reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), even though such reservation is envisaged under the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Act, 2024, recently enacted by Parliament. Replying to a question by MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma, the government said that the amendments in the 2024 Act provide for OBC reservation in [] The post OBC Quota In Local Bodies Envisaged, J&K Govt Informs House appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Unconstitutional, bad in law: Congress MLAs slam DC Kishtwars directive on donations
Jammu: Two Congress MLAs on Thursday demanded the withdrawal of the order issued by the Deputy Commissioner, Kishtwar, regulating the collection of donations in the mountainous district during the holy month of Ramadhan. The issue was raised in the House by MLA Bandipora, Nizamuddin Bhat, during the discussion on grants of departments headed by Chief []
Jio With Reliance To Invest Rs 10 lakh Cr Over 7 Years: Ambani At AI Summit
New Delhi, Feb 19: Billionaire Mukesh Ambani on Thursday announced Rs 10 lakh crore investment by his group as he promised to revolutionise artificial intelligence, as he did with mobile data. Speaking at India AI Impact Summit here, Ambani said the best of AI is yet to come and that AI can usher in an era of super abundance. The world, he said, stands at a fork over AI, one path leading to scarce, expensive AI & controlled data, while [] The post Jio With Reliance To Invest Rs 10 lakh Cr Over 7 Years: Ambani At AI Summit appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
No Open Or Unauthorized Charity Collection During Ramadan Without Prior Approval: DM Kishtwar
Kishtwar, Feb 19: District Magistrate Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma (JKAS), has issued a detailed order regulating and monitoring the collection of donations during the holy month of Ramadan2026, mandating that no individual or organization shall collect charity without prior authorization from the competent authorities. As per the order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, no individual, NGO, trust, society or committee shall collect donations whether in cash, kind or digital mode without valid registration [] The post No Open Or Unauthorized Charity Collection During Ramadan Without Prior Approval: DM Kishtwar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K: Man Held With Foreign Pistols, Ammunition in Nowshera
Jammu, Feb 19: Jammu and Kashmir Police, in a joint operation with the Army, arrested a man in Rajouri districts Nowshera belt and recovered foreign-made pistols, magazines and live rounds from his possession, officials said on Thursday. The suspect, identified as Sachin Kumar of Sair in Nowshera, was apprehended by a joint patrol of Police [] The post J&K: Man Held With Foreign Pistols, Ammunition in Nowshera appeared first on Northlines .
J&Ks properties in Delhi, Amritsar, Haryana under unauthorised control
Srinagar: The Jammu & Kashmir Government has revealed that its prized properties in New Delhi, Amritsar, and Chandigarh are not in its hands-but under occupation. The revelation has raised questions over how assets of such huge financial value slipped out of the states control. In a written reply to cut motion of Peoples Conference []
J&K Police, Army Nab Man With Foreign Made Pistols, Magazines In Nowshera
Jammu, Feb 19: Jammu and Kashmir Police and Army have arrested a man in possession of foreign-made pistols, magazines, and live rounds in the Nowshera belt of Rajouri district. Officials said a joint patrol by a team from Police Station Nowshera and the Army apprehended the suspect, identified as Sachin Kumar of Sair, Nowshera, in the Raipur area. During the search, they said that two foreign-made pistols (Turkey/China Made), four magazines and 15 live rounds were recovered from his possession [] The post J&K Police, Army Nab Man With Foreign Made Pistols, Magazines In Nowshera appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Operation Thrashy Major Breakthrough; Terror Networks To Be Crushed: LoP Sunil Sharma
Jammu, Feb 19: Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma on Thursday termed Operation Thrashy a significant breakthrough by security forces, asserting that intensified operations will soon yield further success against militants operating in parts of Jammu region. Speaking to reporters, Sharma said that for a long time security forces were engaged in frequent encounters and exchanges of fire without achieving major success, but the recent breakthrough has opened a new gate in anti-terror operations. He said militants hiding in areas such [] The post Operation Thrashy Major Breakthrough; Terror Networks To Be Crushed: LoP Sunil Sharma appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Congress MLAs Protest in J&K Assembly Over Alleged Harassment of Kashmiris
Jammu, Feb 19: Congress MLAs Irfan Lone and Iftikhar Ahmed on Thursday staged a protest outside the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, alleging harassment of Kashmiris outside the Union Territory and demanding immediate intervention to stop such incidents. Holding a pamphlet reading Stop harassment of Kashmiris, Lone and Ahmed demonstrated on the assembly stairs and were [] The post Congress MLAs Protest in J&K Assembly Over Alleged Harassment of Kashmiris appeared first on Northlines .
Education Minister Sakina Itoo Accuses BJP Of Misleading People Over Law University Demand
Jammu, Feb 19: National Conference (NC) leader and Cabinet Minister Sakina Itoo accused BJP of misleading the people of Jammu with hollow promises during the assembly elections. Speaking outside the Legislative Assembly, the Minister for Education pointed out the disparity between the BJPs electoral rhetoric and its current actions. Before the elections, they promised the people here jobs and 10 lakh in their bank accounts. They spoke about having a Hindu Chief Minister. Today, they have nothing to say, Itoo [] The post Education Minister Sakina Itoo Accuses BJP Of Misleading People Over Law University Demand appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CRPF Sets Up 43 High-Altitude Bases in J&K After Pahalgam Attack
New Delhi: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has established 43 temporary operating bases in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack to track and eliminate militants hiding in mountainous terrain, security officials said on Wednesday. These bases, located above 6,000 feet, serve as short-term camps for CRPF troops to [] The post CRPF Sets Up 43 High-Altitude Bases in J&K After Pahalgam Attack appeared first on Northlines .
Congress MLAs Protest Outside Assembly Over Harassment Of Kashmiris Outside J&K
Jammu, Feb 19: Congress MLAs Irfan Lone and Iftikhar Ahmed on Thursday protested over alleged harassment of Kashmiris outside Jammu and Kashmir, demanding an immediate stop to such incidents. Lone, carrying a pamphlet reading Stop harassment of Kashmiris, and Ahmed held the protest on the stairs of the assembly. They were joined by MLAs from Rajouri. Referring to the alleged harassment of Kashmiri nursing students at a university in Rajasthan, the two MLAs said they would raise the issue in [] The post Congress MLAs Protest Outside Assembly Over Harassment Of Kashmiris Outside J&K appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
ED Issues Fresh Summons To Anil Ambani For Feb 26
New Delhi, Feb 19: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued fresh summons to Reliance Group chairman Anil Ambani, directing him to appear for questioning on February 26 after he skipped deposition earlier this week, official sources said on Thursday. His wife, former actor Tina Ambani, has also sought adjournments twice and did not depose before [] The post ED Issues Fresh Summons To Anil Ambani For Feb 26 appeared first on Northlines .
Four new rail lines proposed for Valley, surveys underway: Govt tells House
Srinagar: The Government on Thursday informed the legeslative assembly that the Northern Railway is undertaking final location surveys for four new railway lines in Kashmir Valley, while assuring that landowners will be duly compensated as per law once the projects are sanctioned. Replying to an Assembly question tabled by MLA Javid Hassan Baig regarding railway []
Man Arrested in Jammu Kashmir with Foreign-Made Pistols
SRINAGAR: Security forces arrested a man and recovered arms and ammunition from his possession in the Nowshera sector of Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir late on Wednesday night, officials said. A senior police officer confirmed that a joint patrolling party of the police and the Armys 54 Rashtriya Rifles apprehended the suspect, identified as []
No Open or Unauthorised Charity Collection During Ramadan Without Prior Approval: DM Kishtwar
SRINAGAR: District Magistrate Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma (JKAS), has issued a detailed order regulating and monitoring the collection of donations during the holy month of Ramadan2026, mandating that no individual or organization shall collect charity without prior authorisation from the competent authorities. As per the order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha []
Ashwini Vaishnaw Announces New Delhi Frontier AI Commitments At India AI Impact Summit
New Delhi, Feb 19: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday announced a major outcome of the India AI Impact Summit, unveiling the New Delhi Frontier AI Commitments as a shared voluntary framework adopted by leading global and Indian AI companies. Calling it a significant outcome of the summit, Vaishnaw said, Today, leading frontier AI companies along with our own AI companies have come together to make a set of voluntary commitments a shared commitment for inclusive and shared AI. [] The post Ashwini Vaishnaw Announces New Delhi Frontier AI Commitments At India AI Impact Summit appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Rahul Gandhi Holds His Position By Mandate Of People, Not By Courtesy: Nizamuddin Bhat
Jammu, Feb 19: Congress MLA Nizamuddin Bhat on Thursday dismissed remarks by certain TMC leaders seeking the removal of Rahul Gandhi from the leadership role in the INDIA alliance, terming such statements as political narratives without substance. Speaking to reporters outside the Assembly complex in Jammu, Bhatsaid that political narratives often fluctuate and should not be taken too seriously. Political narratives are sometimes good, sometimes bad. There is no need to attach excessive importance to such remarks. Rahul Gandhi, as [] The post Rahul Gandhi Holds His Position By Mandate Of People, Not By Courtesy: Nizamuddin Bhat appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Kashmiri Man Posing as NIA Officer Arrested in Delhi
SRINAGAR: A man from Jammu and Kashmir has been arrested in Delhi for allegedly impersonating an officer of a central agency and cheating economically vulnerable families by promising jobs, according to multiple national media reports. The accused, identified as Mudassar, a resident of Pulwama, was intercepted during patrolling by a team from Kotwali Police Station. []
Open Merit Share in Govt Jobs Hovers Near 52 Per Cent in Jammu Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Open Merit appointments in Jammu and Kashmir have averaged just above half of total selections over the past six years, even as reserved categories have expanded their numerical footprint across both Gazetted and Non-Gazetted recruitments, according to official data. The current reservation framework in the Union Territory was notified through SO 176 dated March []
J-K man posing as NIA officer to dupe job-seekers held from Red Fort area
NEW DELHI: A man from Jammu and Kashmir was apprehended by Delhi Police near Red Fort for allegedly posing as an officer of a central agency and cheating economically vulnerable families on the pretext of providing jobs, an official said on Thursday. The accused, identified as Mudassar, a resident of Pulwama, was intercepted during patrolling []
T20 World Cup : Sahibzada ton, bowlers lift Pakistan into Super Eights
COLOMBO: Opener Sahibzada Farhan smashed an unbeaten hundred before Usman Tariq snared four wickets as Pakistan defeated Namibia by 102 runs in their must-win Group A match to book their place in the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup here on Wednesday. Farhan blasted 11 fours and four sixes on way to an unbeaten []
CM Omar, LG Sinha, Mehbooba, Speaker congratulate cricket team
Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday congratulated the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for its remarkable achievement in the Ranji Trophy, praising the players, coaches and support staff for their collective effort and dedication. The J&K team scripted history by defeating Bengal by six wickets in their maiden Ranji Trophy semifinal appearance, registering a []
J&K Assembly: CM Omar moves 13 demands, 19 supplementary demands
Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday moved 13 Demands and 19 supplementary Demands in the Legislative Assembly which was subsequently presented before the House for discussion by Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather. I move that a sum not exceeding the aggregate amount mentioned in Demand Nos. 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14, 19, []
LG lays foundation of Sri Shankaracharya Temple in Katra
Total expenditure for temple complex will be borne by SMVDSB Katra: Marking a historic milestone, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha laid the foundation stone on Wednesday for the much-anticipated Sri Shankaracharya Temple. Perched on hillocks beside the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, this project takes root after decades, realizing a vision first envisioned in the []
HDFC Bank Fraud Case: EOW arrests five employees; conducts searches in Shopian, Budgam
Srinagar: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K is conducting searches in the districts of Shopian and Budgam in connection with case FIR No. 30/2025, registered under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the IT Act at Police Station EOW Kashmir, Crime Branch J&K. The matter came to light []
Assembly adjourned after noisy scenes over police action on students in Jammu
Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday was adjourned after witnessing noisy scenes as BJP MLAs protested the alleged police use of force against students who were demanding the establishment of a National Law University (NLU) in Jammu. The uproar erupted when the House was discussing grants related to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. BJP []
Ration Card Bifurcation Process on Hold Since 2016: Govt
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government informed the House that the bifurcation of ration cards remains suspended. Responding to a question raised by Zafar Ali Khatana, the government said the process was halted under Government Order No. 85-CAPD of 2016 dated May 4, 2016. It added that the Administrative Department, through a communication issued on []
Padhoji delivers outstanding performance in JEE Main Examination 2026
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 18: Marking yet another milestone in its journey of academic excellence and student success, Padhoji today announced its exceptional performance in the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main this year. The institute has once again demonstrated its commitment to quality education, disciplined preparation, and result-oriented guidance by achieving outstanding results across all batches. The institute celebrates the remarkable achievements of its students who have secured top percentiles and impressive ranks at the national level. Dhananjay Pandit secured [] The post Padhoji delivers outstanding performance in JEE Main Examination 2026 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
LG Ladakh visits several technology pavilions at Bharat Mandapam
Excelsior Correspondent 19NEW DELHI, Feb 18: As India advances decisively on the path of becoming a global technology leader, Artificial Intelligence is emerging as a key enabler of inclusive growth, good governance and sustainable development. This was stated by the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, during his visit to the India AI Summit being held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. During his visit, the LG visited several technology pavilions and interacted with representatives of leading global and Indian companies, [] The post LG Ladakh visits several technology pavilions at Bharat Mandapam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
FCIK seeks urgent rollout of SOTS for MSMEs
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Feb 18: The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) today demanded urgent measures for a Special One-Time Settlement (SOTS) scheme for stressed micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which is currently under active consideration by the management of Jammu and Kashmir Bank. A spokesperson of FCIK said copies of the representation have also been shared with senior Government authorities and the management of J&K Bank, underscoring the urgent need for a structured framework to resolve long-standing [] The post FCIK seeks urgent rollout of SOTS for MSMEs appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi welcomes world leaders to AI Impact Summit; holds bilaterals with 7 PMs, presidents, 2 CEOs
NEW DELHI, Feb 18 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday welcomed world leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva, for the ongoing AI Impact Summit here and held nine bilaterals with heads of state and CEOs. The world leaders, including Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Disanayaka and Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, were welcomed to an ensemble of traditional musical instruments, including drums, nadaswaram and tanpura, with the prime minister greeting them with a warm [] The post PM Modi welcomes world leaders to AI Impact Summit; holds bilaterals with 7 PMs, presidents, 2 CEOs appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Khatana justifies allocation of MPLADS funds to UP
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 18: Nominated Rajya Sabha MP, Gulam Ali Khatana of BJP has justified his allocation of MPLADS (Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme) funds to Uttar Pradesh. As a nominated member of Rajya Sabha, I am constitutionally empowered to allocate funds anywhere in the country in the national interest, he told a news channel dismissing the allegations raised in J&K over his decision to allocate a significant portion of his MPLADS funds to UP. My funds [] The post Khatana justifies allocation of MPLADS funds to UP appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Dr. Gagan Bhagat Terrorism is commonly linked to grim realities such as grinding poverty, widespread illiteracy, and deep-seated social exclusion. Yet, a growing array of compelling cases from diverse nations powerfully dismantles this oversimplified narrative. Among the most chilling and thought-provoking recent developments is the shocking involvement of highly trained medical professionals from Al-Falah University in a sinister terrorist conspiracy. This alarming episode compels us to confront a stark, politically impartial question that demands serious reflection: why do remarkably accomplished [] The post Degrees of Destruction appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Grounded Engagement in Jammu & Kashmir
Lt Gen R S Reen rsinghreen@gmail.com The insightful opinion by Sh. Sunil Sharma (LOP) published in Daily Excelsior some time ago provides a compelling and accurate diagnosis of the political transformation underway in Jammu & Kashmir. He correctly identifies the paradigm shift from ideology-driven factionalism to constitutionally aligned governance as the cornerstone for lasting stability. This shift, orchestrated by the Union Government post-2019, is indeed a necessary corrective measure to decades of institutional decay and symbolic politics. However, a critical [] The post Grounded Engagement in Jammu & Kashmir appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Dube, Chakravarthy star as India end league stage with 17-run win over Netherlands
AHMEDABAD, Feb 18: Shivam Dube played a momentum changing knock before Varun Chakravarthy produced another incisive spell to set up Indias convincing 17-run victory over the Netherlands in their final league fixture of the T20 World Cup here on Wednesday. Despite the top-order struggles against off-spinner Aryan Dutt, India managed to make a challenging 193 for six courtesy the fireworks from Shivam Dube (66 off 31) in the second half of the innings. The Netherlands were always behind in the [] The post Dube, Chakravarthy star as India end league stage with 17-run win over Netherlands appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Criteria cant be altered midway: DB
*Throws out JKSSB Knitting Instructor selection Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 18: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has upheld the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Jammu Bench order and set aside the JKSSB select list and waiting list for the post of Knitting Instructor, Divisional Cadre Jammu, holding that the recruitment process was tainted by arbitrary deviation from notified eligibility conditions and could not be sustained in law. A Division Bench comprising Justice Sindhu Sharma and Justice Shahzad [] The post Criteria cant be altered midway: DB appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
ISKCON playing key role in serving mankind, carrying Sanatan Dharmas flag globally: Shah
MUMBAI, Feb 18 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said ISKCON was playing a significant role in carrying the flag of Sanatan Dharma across the world while serving mankind through relief operations during natural calamities, and social welfare initiatives. Addressing devotees at the ISKCON temple in Mayapur in West Bengals Nadia district during celebrations marking the 152nd birth anniversary of Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur, Shah said he had come to the spiritual centre not in his official capacity but [] The post ISKCON playing key role in serving mankind, carrying Sanatan Dharmas flag globally: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Srinagar rallies against drugs as KIWG build-up begins
Excelsior Sports Correspondent SRINAGAR, Feb 18: A motorcycle and cycle rally carrying an anti-drug message rolled through Srinagar today as part of the build-up to the Khelo India Winter Games 2026, while in Sonamarg the inaugural Snow Sports Festival marked an expansion of winter sporting activities beyond Gulmarg. The rally, flagged off from Bakshi Stadium, was the first major public outreach event ahead of the Games, scheduled to be held in Gulmarg from February 23 to 26. Joint Director Tourism [] The post Srinagar rallies against drugs as KIWG build-up begins appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
