Mubarak Gul Expresses Disappointment Over Being Left Out of J&K Cabinet Expansion
Srinagar, Oct 27 : Senior National Conference (NC) leader and MLA Mubarak Gul on Tuesday expressed disappointment over being left out of the latest cabinet expansion in Jammu and Kashmir, saying he had attended around 30 oath-taking ceremonies of ministers but had yet again failed to make the cut. Speaking to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) ahead of the oath-taking ceremony of the newly announced ministers, Gul said he was once again missing from the list. It is around the 30th time that I am participating in the oath-taking ceremonies of ministers, but unfortunately, I have been dropped yet again, he said. Gul said he would address the media in detail later, reiterating that his name had once again not figured in the list of ministers. Meanwhile, four National Conference legislators Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shamim Firdous and Altaf Ahmad Wani, popularly known as Altaf Kalloo are expected to be inducted into the Council of Ministers on today. With one minister likely to be dropped, the strength of the Council of Ministers, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is expected to increase from six to nine, the maximum permitted in Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)
For generations, Punjab was where Kashmiris went to trade, study and heal. Today, those who make the journey travel with caution, struggle to rent rooms and stay wary of drugs and hostility, reports Asrar Syeed Historically, the neighbouring state of Punjab was a place Kashmiri artisans, shawl weavers, and traders travelled to frequently. For most []
South Kashmir ATM Fraud: Rs 9.5 Lakh Recovered, Two Women Arrested
SRINAGAR: Police in south Kashmirs Kulgam district have recovered the entire Rs 9.5 lakh allegedly stolen from a woman through an ATM card exchange fraud and arrested two women accused of receiving the proceeds, while the two alleged main perpetrators remain absconding. The case is registered as FIR No. 254/2026 under Sections 303(2) and 318(4) []
Poonch Basin Shows Signs of Active Tectonic Movement, Study Finds
Analysis of nine sub-watersheds in the north-western Himalaya identifies fault-controlled river networks, ongoing uplift and erosion-prone terrain, offering new evidence to inform geological hazard assessment and water-resource planning. SRINAGAR: A study of the Poonch Basin in Jammu and Kashmir has found that active tectonic processes are significantly shaping its valleys, river networks and landscape. The []
Is Jammu and Kashmir Undermining Its Own Urban Planning Goals?
by Iftikhar Hakim The government promises decongestion, resilient cities and GIS-based Master Plans, but building-rule amendments and Ease of Doing Business provisions raise concerns over planning safeguards, environmental protection and disaster resilience. Jammu and Kashmirs cities and towns face mounting pressures from unplanned growth, traffic congestion, inadequate infrastructure, environmental degradation and increasing exposure to natural []
73-Year-Old Tourist from Haryana Dies at Srinagar Hospital
SRINAGAR: A 73-year-old tourist from Haryana died after being shifted to SMHS Hospital in Srinagar following a complaint of chest pain, officials said. The deceased, identified as Mahipal Singh, a resident of Gharaunda in Karnal district, was staying with his wife and friends at Houseboat on Dal Lake. He was initially taken to Khyber Hospital []
When Degrees Rise, But Humanity Falls
A society does not become truly educated simply because more people acquire higher degreesit becomes educated when knowledge is reflected in behaviour, success is accompanied by humility, and people use their abilities for the common good. We must pursue education not merely to impress others, but to improve ourselves: our degrees should open doors to []
The Mirror We Call Life: When Superiority Becomes A Measure Of Self-Worth
The mirror of life challenges us to examine this tendency honestly. We may readily identify arrogance in others while finding convenient explanations for our own behaviourwe call impatience efficiency, harshness honesty and self-importance confidence. We may criticise another persons weaknesses without acknowledging our own. Genuine self-examination requires different questions: Do we listen as carefully to []
Childhood Obesity In India: Prevention Must Begin At Home And School
India cannot afford to treat childhood obesity as an individual problem when the conditions shaping childrens health are shared across families, schools and communities. The success of obesity prevention should not be measured solely by reductions in body weightimprovements in dietary quality, physical fitness, metabolic health, emotional well-being and quality of life are equally important. []
Jammu Kashmir Police Warn Against Water Bill Scam After Senior Citizen Loses Rs 1.62 Lakh
SRINAGAR: Jammu Kashmir Police have cautioned people against a cyber fraud in which a senior citizen was allegedly cheated of Rs 1.62 lakh by a scammer impersonating a Jal Board official and threatening to disconnect the victims water supply over an unpaid bill. According to a cyber safety advisory shared by the police, the fraudster []
CM Omar Abdullah to Reshuffle Cabinet Today, Four NC Leaders Likely to Join
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is set to expand and reshuffle his two-year-old Council of Ministers on Tuesday, with four National Conference leaders expected to join the government as it moves towards filling the available ministerial positions. The reshuffle follows the resignation of the existing ministers, paving the way for Omar Abdullah []
IIM Jammu launches healthcare supply chain programme
Jammu, Oct 26: The Indian Institute of Management Jammu inaugurated the programme, Logistics & Supply Chain Management in Healthcare: Efficiency, Quality & Resilience, on 26 October 2026, at the Yoga 266, Vedanta MDP Centre, Academic Block, IIM Jammu. The programme aims to facilitate knowledge exchange and peer learning among healthcare professionals, focusing on strengthening supply chain efficiency, improving quality, and building resilience in healthcare delivery systems. The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Prof. Prashant Mishra, Chairperson, Executive Education and Consultancy (EE&C), IIM Jammu and graced by programme directors, Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta and Lt Gen (Dr.) Sunil Kant, (Retd.), Programme Director, IIM Jammu. The inaugural ceremony commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by a welcome address by Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Programme Director, who shared insights from his experience in healthcare management, including the challenges encountered during floods and the importance of institutional preparedness and effective coordination. He emphasized that the programme would be an opportunity for participants to learn from real-world experiences and exchange practical insights rather than limit themselves to conventional classroom learning. He also drew attention to the significant additional expenditure involved in establishing and operationalizing healthcare facilities, underlining the importance of efficient planning and resource management. Prof. Prashant Mishra, Chairperson, Executive Education and Consultancy (EE&C), IIM Jammu, provided an overview of the Institutes executive education initiatives and their role in bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry practice. He spoke about the importance of stronger industry participation, the contribution of experienced professionals to management education, and the value of learning from practical experiences. Referring to IIM Jammus academic infrastructure and international accreditations, he noted the Institutes commitment to academic excellence and industry engagement. He encouraged participants to approach the programme with an open mind, actively participate in discussions, and benefit from peer learning and the exchange of best practices. The programme also featured an introduction of participants, providing an opportunity for interaction and the sharing of professional backgrounds and experiences. Lt Gen (Dr.) Sunil Kant, SM, VSM (Retd.), Programme Director, IIM Jammu, welcomed the participants and encouraged them to make the most of the learning opportunity. Emphasizing the practical orientation of the programme, he referred to real-world experiences and anecdotes relating to logistics and supply chain management. He also invited participants to openly share their concerns and operational challenges, assuring them of opportunities for discussion and interaction with faculty, including Prof. Shakti Kumar Gupta. The inaugural ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Lt Gen (Dr.) Sunil Kant, followed by the National Anthem and a group photograph. Through this programme, IIM Jammu seeks to promote meaningful engagement between academia and healthcare practitioners, encouraging the exchange of field-based experiences, practical solutions, and management perspectives to support more efficient, quality-driven, and resilient healthcare supply chains.
GMC Srinagar observes Vigilance Awareness Week
Srinagar, Oct 26: Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar on Monday observed Vigilance Awareness Week by organizing an Integrity Pledge ceremony on the college premises. The pledge was administered by Masarat Hashim, Administrator Associated Hospitals Government Medical College Srinagar in the presence of officers and officials of the institution. Nausheen Mushtaq, Chief Accounts Officer was also present on the occasion. The programme was organised to promote awareness about the importance of integrity transparency and accountability in public service. During the ceremony the officers and officials took the Integrity Pledge and reaffirmed their commitment to honesty ethical conduct and zero tolerance towards corruption in the discharge of their official duties. Speaking on the occasion, the Administrator said that integrity and transparency are essential for efficient public service and for strengthening public confidence in government institutions. He called upon all employees to perform their duties with sincerity dedication and professionalism while maintaining the highest standards of ethics and accountability. The programme concluded with all participants reiterating their commitment to uphold the values of integrity transparency and good governance in line with the objectives of Vigilance Awareness Week.
Vigilance Awareness Week begins across Shopian to promote integrity, probity
Shopian, Oct 26: Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 commenced across Shopian on Monday with a series of awareness activities aimed at promoting integrity, transparency, accountability and ethical conduct among officials, stakeholders and the general public. The Vigilance Awareness Week is being observed from October 26 to November 1, 2026, under the theme Probity for Prosperity. As part of the opening-day activities, an Integrity Pledge was administered at Town Hall Shopian. The event was presided by Additional Deputy Commissioner Shopian, Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz. CEO MC and other officers were also present on the occasion. The participants reaffirmed their commitment to upholding honesty, integrity, transparency and accountability in the discharge of their responsibilities and contributing towards a corruption-free society. Similar activities were also organised at various locations across Shopian, with officials, employees and members of the community participating in initiatives aimed at creating greater awareness about ethical governance, prevention of corruption and the importance of probity in public life. The week-long observance will feature various awareness programmes, outreach activities, sensitisation sessions and other initiatives to engage employees, stakeholders, students and citizens on issues relating to integrity, transparency and accountability.
Anantnag Police arrest 7 in drug crackdown
Anantnag, Oct 26: Continuing its sustained crackdown against drug trafficking and substance abuse, Police in Anantnag intensified its efforts to curb the drug menace across the district. During a series of operations, police teams apprehended seven peddlers and recovered large quantity of contraband substances from their possession. A police party from Police Station Anantnag apprehended Sareer Ahmad Bhat son of Khazir Mohammad Bhat resident of Chirhama Mirbazar, at Nawvathoo Danter and recovered approximately 230 grams of charas powder-like substance from his possession. In another operation, police intercepted a Hyundai i10 bearing registration number JK05B-3181, driven by Mohd Altaf Bhat son of Abdul Majeed Bhat, resident of Mirdanter. Approximately 153 grams of charas powder-like substance was recovered during the search from his possession. Besides, vehicle used in the commission of crime has also been seized. In separate operations at Wazirbagh and behind Police Station Anantnag, police apprehended Bittu Dantani son of Raju Dantani resident of Chapur Mehdi Kuwa, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, presently residing at Achabal Adda, Anantnag, and Ajay Kumar son of Kishan Kumar, resident of Verrugam Kadi, Gujarat. Approximately 17 grams and 22 grams of charas, respectively, were recovered from their possession. Meanwhile, acting on reliable information, Police Post Sangam conducted a raid at the residential house of Bilal Ahmad Bhat son of Abdul Wahab Bhat, resident of Baliyar Marhama, and recovered approximately 7.170 kilograms of ganja-like substance. Similarly, a naka party of Police Post Shairbagh apprehended Danish Manzoor Shaikh son of Manzoor Ahmad Shaikh, resident of Janglat Mandi, Anantnag, at High Ground and recovered approximately 205 grams of charas-like substance from his possession. Moreover, a naka party of Police Station Mattan apprehended Javid Mukhtiyaar Pashoo son of Mukhtiyaar Ahmad Pashoo, resident of Gopalpora, Mattan, and recovered approximately 52.6 grams of charas-like substance from his possession. In a separate action, a police party of Police Post DK Pora apprehended Bashir Ahmad Bhat son of Mohd Abdullah Bhat, resident of Brinty, and recovered approximately 15 grams of charas from his possession. Accordingly, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered at respective police stations and further investigation have been initiated. Police reiterate its firm commitment to eradicating the drug menace and appeals to the general public to cooperate with police by sharing credible information regarding drug trafficking and peddling. Public participation remains vital in the collective effort to build a drug-free society.
Traffic Police Issue Fresh Advisory For Jammu-Srinagar Highway, Other Key Roads
SRINAGAR: Traffic movement on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained very slow over the past 24 hours due to single-lane stretches, uneven road surfaces, vehicle breakdowns and the movement of nomadic herds, the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police said on Monday. In its advisory issued for October 27, the Traffic Police Headquarters said slow movement []
PCCF reviews fire preparedness, forest protection in North Kashmir,
Kupwara, Oct 26: Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF), Jammu and Kashmir, Sarvesh Rai, undertook a two-day tour of North Kashmir on October 25 and 26 to review developmental works, forest protection measures, eco-tourism initiatives and infrastructure development across forest divisions of the North Forest Circle. On the first day of the tour, the PCCF visited JV Forest Division, Baramulla, where he inaugurated the Trumgund Forest Check Post and inspected the ongoing construction work of the DFO office at Baramulla. He subsequently visited Langate Forest Division, where he laid the foundation stone for the second storey of the DFO office at Langate and inspected the Reshwari Eco-Tourism site. During the visit, the PCCF emphasised the importance of developing eco-tourism in a planned and sustainable manner, with a focus on responsible visitor management, conservation of natural landscapes and creation of livelihood opportunities for local communities. The tour further covered eco-tourism works in Bangus Valley, where the PCCF took stock of ongoing eco-development initiatives in the DringyariBungus area and reviewed the progress of works being undertaken to promote responsible eco-tourism and enhance visitor amenities. Emphasising effective implementation, he directed the concerned officers to ensure the timely and quality completion of all ongoing projects. He also stressed the need to strengthen forest protection measures, enhance field-level preparedness and intensify preventive interventions in view of the forthcoming forest fire season. At Lakut Bangus, the PCCF inspected the Forest Staff Quarters and Jungle Training Centre and released Mountain Trails of Kehmil, a publication highlighting trekking routes and nature-based tourism opportunities in Kehmil Forest Division. He also inaugurated the Range Office at Ramhall. The office will strengthen field-level administration and coordination, enabling more effective monitoring of forest resources and implementation of protection and developmental activities in the range. Later in the evening, the PCCF visited the Army Headquarters at Zangli, Kupwara, where he held an interactive session with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Armys 28 Infantry Division and other Army officers. Discussions included forest diversion proposals associated with Army requirements and their progress. On the second day, the PCCF visited Kamraj Forest Division, Kupwara, to review field-level infrastructure, forest protection preparedness, livelihood initiatives and conservation-related activities. The visit commenced at Batpora Block, where he inaugurated the Block Officers Hut, a facility catering to three forest beats comprising 16 compartments. The infrastructure is expected to strengthen field coordination, monitoring and protection of forest resources. The PCCF subsequently visited Nagriwari Eco-Park at Hatmulla, where he inaugurated the Van Posh Mela, showcasing the linkages between forest conservation, traditional skills, local livelihoods and eco-tourism. A 1.5-kilometre student trekking route was also inaugurated, and students were flagged off for the trek to promote environmental awareness and appreciation of the regions natural heritage. During the programme, the PCCF initiated Resham Vann, a mulberry plantation initiative within an existing plantation closure, aimed at promoting location-specific livelihoods through mulberry cultivation and potential linkages with Bamboo and Mulberry Clusters (BMCs). He also inspected thematic stalls showcasing traditional crafts and products made from locally sourced raw materials, including Indigofera-based crafts, wood carving and pottery. Poplar saplings were also distributed among beneficiaries under the Social Forestry Departments agroforestry programme to encourage tree cultivation on private and agricultural lands. Students from local schools presented an environmental debate and skit highlighting the importance of forest conservation and biodiversity protection. Appreciating their awareness and understanding of environmental issues, the PCCF felicitated the participating students. A tribal heritage presentation showcased the traditional lifestyle, culture and indigenous practices of local tribal communities. Traditional beverages and a customary tribal dwelling, locally known as a Dhoka, were demonstrated, highlighting their potential to enrich eco-tourism experiences. The PCCF also attended a forest fire mock drill organised by Kamraj Forest Division to assess preparedness for the ensuing fire season. Later, the PCCF released the Forest Protection Plan of Kamraj Forest Division for 202627, outlining the divisions priorities and planned interventions for strengthening forest surveillance, preventing forest offences and safeguarding forest resources. He also released the booklet A Portrait of Paradise The Enchanting Forests of Lolab Valley, documenting the valleys ecological richness and the Forest Departments interventions in forest conservation, restoration, plantation development and eco-tourism promotion. The PCCF was accompanied during the tour by Irfan Rasool Wani, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir; Dr. M. K. Kumar, Chief Conservator of Forests, Central; Irfan Ali Shah, Conservator of Forests, North Circle; Rafi Ahmed Bhat, Joint Director, Forest Protection Force; Zahid Mughal, Divisional Forest Officer, JV Forest Division; Owais Mir, Divisional Forest Officer, Kamraj Forest Division; Ahzah Pajwari, Divisional Forest Officer, Langate Forest Division; Faisal Farooq, Divisional Forest Officer, Kehmil Forest Division; Noorul Amin, Divisional Manager, Forest Development Corporation; Bilal Mir, Divisional Forest Officer, Social Forestry; Jan Mohd, Deputy Director, Forest Protection Force, Kehmil; and Javed Sheikh, Deputy Director, Forest Protection Force, besides Range Officers of the Forest Department and Assistant Directors of the Forest Protection Force.
LG Sinha meets GD Goenka School Baramulla students
Srinagar, Oct 26:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday met with students from GD Goenka Public School, Baramulla, at Lok Bhavan. They were accompanied by Raja Zubair, Director, and Sartaj Mir, Principal of the school. Interacting with the young students, the Lieutenant Governor conveyed his best wishes for their academic and future endeavours. He also congratulated the GD Goenka Public School family for its educational initiatives and overall institutional developments. During the meeting, the school leadership briefed the Lieutenant Governor on several notable achievements including selection of two students to represent Jammu Kashmir at the CBSE Games (Under-17 Cricket).
SPECULATION, SUSPENSE, EXITS, INDUCTIONS : All eyes on J&K cabinet reshuffle today
Srinagar, Oct 26: After months of political speculation, intense consultations and uncertainty over ministerial berths, all eyes are on the much-awaited expansion and reshuffle of the Omar Abdullah-led Council of Ministers today, with four new ministers likely to be inducted and one incumbent expected to be dropped in the first major restructuring of the Jammu and Kashmir government since its formation in October 2024. Highly placed sources told Rising Kashmir that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has finalised a major shake-up of his ministry, with senior National Conference leaders MLA Khanyar Ali Mohammad Sagar, MLA Pahalgam Altaf Ahmad Kaloo, MLA Habba Kadal Shameema Firdous and MLA Trehgam Mir Saifullah likely to be inducted, while incumbent minister Satish Sharma is expected to be dropped. The oath-taking ceremony is scheduled for 10:30 am at Lok Bhavan in Srinagar, bringing months of deliberations over the composition of the ministry to a decisive stage. Sources said the proposed changes followed extensive political consultations over the past several weeks, with the Chief Minister moving to accommodate senior party leaders while restructuring the existing ministerial lineup. The exercise assumes particular significance as it involves not merely filling vacant ministerial berths but also dropping a sitting minister, making it the first major reshuffle of the National Conference-led government since it assumed office two years ago. The developments come against the backdrop of a final attempt by the National Conference leadership on Monday evening to secure the participation of its alliance partner Congress, which has remained outside the ministry despite supporting the government. Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra, as quoted by the Srinagar based news agency, Kashmir News Service (KNS), said that National Conference decision-makers had contacted him with a fresh offer to join the cabinet, but said the Congress had reiterated its principled stand against accepting ministerial positions until Jammu and Kashmir's statehood was restored. Karra said the party would not sacrifice its position on statehood for the sake of a cabinet berth, making it clear that the Congress would continue as an alliance partner without joining the Council of Ministers. The latest refusal has brought clarity to the Congress's position ahead of the expansion, allowing the National Conference leadership to proceed with its proposed ministerial changes. Among the leaders likely to be inducted, Ali Mohammad Sagar is one of the National Conference's senior-most figures, with decades of legislative and administrative experience and previous ministerial responsibilities. Shameema Firdous, another former minister and senior party leader, is expected to return to the Council of Ministers, strengthening women's representation in the government. Mir Saifullah, a former minister and senior National Conference leader from north Kashmir, is also among those tipped for induction, while Pahalgam legislator Altaf Ahmad Kaloo is expected to join the ministry. The possible removal of Satish Sharma, an independent legislator from Chhamb who was inducted into the government in October 2024, is among the most significant aspects of the proposed reshuffle. His exit would mark the first major change involving an incumbent minister since the formation of the Omar Abdullah government. The cabinet expansion has remained pending for several months, with political discussions revolving around regional representation, the accommodation of senior National Conference legislators and the Congress's continued refusal to join the ministry. The Omar Abdullah-led government was formed following the 2024 Assembly elections, the first held in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganisation of the erstwhile state into a Union Territory in August 2019. At the time, several ministerial positions were left vacant, leaving room for a subsequent expansion and the possible accommodation of Congress representatives. However, the Congress has maintained that restoration of statehood remains central to its political position and has repeatedly declined ministerial participation. If the proposed four inductions and one exit take place, the Council of Ministers will reach its maximum permissible strength of nine members, including the Chief Minister. The reshuffle comes as the National Conference-led government enters its third year in office, with the new ministerial composition expected to influence the next phase of governance. With the oath-taking ceremony scheduled for this morning, political attention now centres on the final ministerial lineup, the fate of the incumbent ministers and the distribution of portfolios following the expansion.
GLACIAL RETREAT Part 1 : Alarming rise in glacial lakes raises GLOF fears in Himalayas
Srinagar, Oct 23: The number of glacial lakes in the Upper Indus Sub-Basin of the Western Himalayas has more than tripled in 35 years, with a new scientific study identifying 40 lakes in high and very high hazard categories, raising fresh concerns over the need for stronger monitoring and preparedness against potentially destructive glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). The study, published in Discover Geoscience on October 6, 2026, found that the number of mapped glacial lakes increased from 255 in 1990 to 775 in 2025, while their combined surface area expanded from 34.81 square kilometres to 37.72 square kilometres. The research, titled Automated mapping and multi-decadal changes in glacial lakes in the Upper Indus Sub-Basin, Western Himalaya, using Google Earth Engine, was conducted by Suhail Ahmad, Avtar Singh Jasrotia, Komal Kumar Singh, Anurag Sharma and Qamer Ridwan. Using satellite imagery and geospatial analysis, the researchers identified 520 new glacial lakes over the study period, documenting substantial changes in the high-altitude landscape as glaciers retreat and meltwater accumulates in newly exposed terrain. The Western Himalayan glacial lakes are undergoing rapid transformation as a result of intensified glacier retreat driven by changing climatic conditions, increasing the likelihood of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), the researchers state in the study's abstract. The most significant finding for disaster preparedness is the identification of 40 lakes classified as having high or very high hazard potential. Of these, 36 fall in the high-hazard category and four in the very-high-hazard category, together accounting for approximately 5.2 per cent of the 775 mapped lakes. The researchers assessed the lakes using characteristics including surface area, expansion rate, distance from glacier termini and surrounding topography. The analysis also considered the size of upstream contributing catchments and the potential for ice or rock avalanches to enter lakes. The findings do not mean that an outburst flood is imminent at these sites. Rather, they identify lakes whose physical characteristics warrant priority attention, detailed field investigation and more comprehensive hazard assessment. The increase in glacial lake numbers was considerably sharper than the growth in their combined surface area, indicating that the transformation is being driven largely by the formation of smaller water bodies rather than the dramatic enlargement of existing lakes. The researchers recorded an increase of 2.91 square kilometres in total lake area between 1990 and 2025, equivalent to an average net increase of approximately 0.083 square kilometres annually. Of the 775 lakes mapped in 2025, 771 were smaller than one square kilometre. Only three fell within the one-to-five-square-kilometre category, while one exceeded five square kilometres, the study reads. Despite their limited numbers, larger lakes contribute disproportionately to the overall lake area and remain important in assessing potential flood hazards. The study found that most glacial lakes were concentrated between 4,000 and 5,000 metres above sea level, highlighting the influence of altitude, glacier distribution and local terrain on their formation. The researchers linked the observed changes to regional warming and enhanced glacier melt, which can expose new depressions and create conditions favourable for the accumulation of meltwater. The analysis used Landsat satellite imagery from 1990 and 2025, processed through Google Earth Engine. A Modified Normalised Difference Water Index, combined with topographic constraints and morphological filtering, was used to identify water bodies, with subsequent manual refinement. The authors noted that all 255 lakes identified in 1990 remained in the 2025 inventory, while 520 additional lakes were identified. This pattern suggests that the increase in the mapped inventory was driven by new lake formation rather than the disappearance of previously mapped lakes. However, the researchers also acknowledged limitations, including the 30-metre resolution of Landsat imagery, the absence of comprehensive lake-depth and volume measurements, and the lack of detailed information on the structural stability of natural dams. The hazard assessment provides a more targeted picture of the potential risks associated with the changing glacial landscape. While 466 lakes were classified as low hazard, 152 as very low hazard and 117 as moderate hazard, the remaining 40 were placed in the high and very-high categories. The researchers emphasised that these classifications represent preliminary, relative hazard screening rather than definitive predictions of the probability or magnitude of a future outburst. A glacial lake outburst flood occurs when water stored behind a natural barrier, such as a moraine or an ice dam, is suddenly released following a breach or other failure. Such events can unleash torrents of water, sediment and debris into downstream valleys, potentially damaging roads, bridges, settlements and other infrastructure. The likelihood and consequences of an outburst depend on several factors, including lake volume, dam composition and stability, the possibility of avalanches entering the lake and the exposure of downstream communities. The study's authors cautioned that some of these factors could not be fully assessed using satellite imagery alone. Lake bathymetry, dam stability and downstream exposure require additional observations and detailed investigations. The findings therefore underline the importance of moving beyond mapping lake numbers towards identifying the most vulnerable sites, assessing the communities and infrastructure exposed downstream, and establishing appropriate monitoring and early-warning arrangements. For the Upper Indus region, where mountain glaciers form an important part of the wider river system, the changing distribution of glacial lakes also has implications for long-term water-resource management and disaster planning, the study notes. The researchers describe Google Earth Engine as an effective tool for large-scale monitoring of glacial lakes across remote and difficult-to-access mountain terrain. Their inventory provides a baseline for future studies, while the hazard classification offers a starting point for prioritising sites for more detailed assessment. With 520 new lakes mapped over 35 years and 40 identified as having high or very high hazard potential, the study highlights a growing need for sustained scientific surveillance of the Western Himalayas. The immediate challenge for authorities is to establish which of the flagged lakes pose the greatest actual risk, what lies downstream of them and whether monitoring and response systems are adequate to protect vulnerable communities.
Over 1.15 lakh HADP applications pending in J&K
Srinagar, Oct 26: Over 1.15 lakh applications submitted through Jammu and Kashmir's Kisan Sathi digital platform are still awaiting disposal, even as the portal has received nearly seven lakh applications under the government's flagship Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, according to the latest cumulative dashboard. As per the data, the portal has received 6,97,728 applications, of which 4,79,895 have been approved, while 1,15,295 applications are listed as under process. The platform has registered 4,33,215 farmers so far, pointing to the continuing demand for assistance under various agriculture and allied-sector schemes, with Agriculture accounting for the largest share of applications as well as pending cases. The Agriculture sector has received 4,98,446 applications, of which 3,70,067 have been approved, while 77,102 remain under process. The figures make Agriculture the largest contributor to the overall application workload on the portal. The Livestock sector has recorded 1,32,041 applications, with 67,790 approvals and 25,655 cases under process. Horticulture has received 66,818 applications, of which 41,778 have been approved, while 12,503 are being processed. The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) has recorded 423 applications, with 260 approved and 35 under process. The sector-wise figures indicate that the Agriculture and Livestock segments together account for the bulk of the application load, underlining the importance of timely processing of proposals linked to farm production, livestock development and allied activities. The monthly application trend shows that submissions were highest during December 2025 and January 2026. Applications subsequently declined in the following months, although the portal continued to record submissions through October 2026. The district-wise data show considerable variation in participation across the two divisions. In Jammu division, Doda has recorded the highest number of applications, while Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, Kathua and Kishtwar also feature among the districts with substantial participation. Ramban and Reasi have comparatively lower numbers. In Kashmir division, Baramulla and Anantnag have recorded the highest application numbers, followed by Kupwara. Budgam, Kulgam and Pulwama have also registered considerable participation, while Srinagar remains at the lower end of the district-wise distribution. The figures come amid the government's efforts to transform Jammu and Kashmir's agriculture sector through HADP, which seeks to improve farm productivity, promote commercial agriculture and strengthen allied activities through targeted interventions. The programme covers agriculture, horticulture, livestock, fisheries, sericulture, apiculture, farm mechanisation, food processing and research support, among other areas.
HILL ROAD SAFETY : Highway contractors to clear landslides in 12 hrs, snow in 24
Srinagar, Oct 25: Highway contractors on hill roads, including those in Jammu and Kashmir, will be bound by strict maintenance deadlines 12 hours to clear landslides and 24 hours to remove snow under a model agreement issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). The move could significantly change how the region's fragile mountain roads are maintained and made safe for commuters. Under the agreement's maintenance requirements set out in Schedule E, damage to retaining walls or breast walls must be repaired within seven days. Landslides requiring clearance must be cleared within 12 hours, while snow must be cleared within 24 hours. These requirements are in addition to the general maintenance standards for project highways. The agreement also makes the latest standards issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the Indian Roads Congress (IRC), along with MoRTH specifications, applicable to maintenance work. The document also provides for retaining structures, including retaining walls, breast walls and toe walls, at specified locations along hill roads. Project documents are to identify these locations and provide details of the structures. What counts as a Catastrophic Failure? The agreement defines Catastrophic Failure to include the collapse of a bridge, flyover, underpass or retaining structure during the contract period. The definition also covers embankment or pavement failures that force at least one carriageway to be closed or diverted for rehabilitation. Such a failure qualifies when the affected stretch meets the agreement's specified length threshold: a continuous stretch of 50 metres or a cumulative discontinuous stretch exceeding 1 per cent of the project length, whichever is lower. The provision applies within the Defects Liability Period or five years, whichever is shorter. Other cases include the collapse of a launching girder or staging during construction resulting in loss of life, and damage to concrete pavement requiring full-depth panel replacement over more than 2 per cent of the carriageway area within five years of construction completion. The definition also covers the collapse of a tunnel or tunnel portal during the operational phase, as well as cases in which people remain trapped inside a tunnel for more than 72 hours during construction. The deadlines and definitions form part of the model agreement and do not automatically apply to every existing highway contract. The document allows the hill-road maintenance deadlines to be modified, or additional defects to be included, before bidding documents are issued, subject to approval by the competent authority.
J&K vehicle fleet reaches 28.83 lakh
Srinagar, Oct 26: Jammu and Kashmirs registered vehicle fleet reached 28.83 lakh by December 2025, up from 27.36 lakh at the end of March 2025, while the Transport Department collected Rs 706.35 crore in revenue during the first nine months of the financial year 202526, according to official figures. The department registered 1,47,448 vehicles between April and December 2025, following the registration of 1,69,012 vehicles during the financial year 202425. The latest figures indicate continued growth in vehicle ownership across the Union Territory. Year-wise data shows that 1,37,177 vehicles were registered in 202122, increasing to 1,57,795 in 202223 and 1,65,278 in 202324 before reaching 1,69,012 in 202425. Of the vehicles registered in 202425, 32,981 were commercial, and 1,36,031 were non-commercial. During the first nine months of 202526, registrations included 27,088 commercial and 1,20,360 non-commercial vehicles. The cumulative vehicle fleet expanded from 22.73 lakh in March 2021 to 27.36 lakh in March 2025, reaching 28.83 lakh by December 2025. On the revenue front, the Transport Department collected Rs 629.65 crore against a revised target of Rs 625 crore in 202122. Collections rose to Rs 762.63 crore in 202223 and Rs 925 crore in 202324. During 202425, the department generated Rs 942.22 crore against a target of Rs 1,430 crore. For 202526, it has set a revenue target of Rs 1,530 crore, of which Rs 706.35 crore had been collected up to December 2025. The department also issued 98,739 fresh driving licences and renewed 81,857 licences during 202425, taking the combined total to 1,80,596. During the first nine months of 202526, it issued 1,01,191 fresh licences and renewed 70,153, bringing the total to 1,71,344. In the route permit category, 33,621 permits were issued or renewed during 202425, including 12,332 fresh permits and 21,289 renewals. From April to December 2025, the department issued 7,466 fresh permits and renewed 10,130, taking the total to 17,596. Vehicle fitness certification also remained a key regulatory function. During 202425, the department issued 13,558 fresh fitness certificates and renewed 91,644, for a combined total of 1,05,202. Up to December 2025 in the current financial year, 8,306 fresh certificates had been issued and 73,962 renewed, taking the total to 82,268. Services such as learners licences, driving licences, vehicle registration, fitness certification and licence renewals are available through the VAHAN and SARATHI digital platforms.
Winter Adventure can put Kashmir on a New Tourism Map
Kashmirs winter has long been treated as a period of tourism slowdown, but the season carries the potential to become one of the Valleys strongest economic opportunities. Snow-covered slopes, frozen landscapes, pine forests and mountain routes offer the setting for a vibrant adventure-tourism economy. What is required is not merely promotion, but planning, safety and a clear shift from sightseeing to meaningful winter experiences. Gulmarg has already demonstrated the appeal of snow-based tourism. Skiing and snowboarding attract visitors, while destinations such as Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Doodhpathri and parts of Gurez can support a wider range of carefully managed activities. Snow trekking, winter camping, mountaineering, ice climbing, snowshoeing and guided nature trails can give tourists more reasons to stay longer and explore beyond established circuits. But winter adventure tourism cannot be developed through slogans alone. The risks are real. Sudden weather changes, avalanches, slippery roads, poor communication networks and inadequate rescue arrangements can turn recreation into tragedy. Every activity must therefore be governed by strict safety protocols. Trained guides, certified instructors, weather monitoring, emergency shelters, medical support and reliable rescue teams should be treated as essential infrastructure, not optional additions. The administration must also ensure that local communities remain at the centre of this expansion. Adventure tourism should create opportunities for young people as guides, instructors, drivers, homestay operators, equipment providers and rescue personnel. Without local participation, the benefits will remain concentrated among a few agencies and outside operators, while communities living closest to tourist destinations continue to struggle with seasonal incomes. Environmental safeguards are equally important. Kashmir cannot afford to replace one form of unplanned tourism with another. Fragile mountain habitats, forests and water sources must be protected from litter, traffic pressure, construction and overcrowding. Carrying-capacity assessments should guide the number of visitors and activities permitted in sensitive areas. The Valleys winter tourism policy must also address basic connectivity. Roads, public transport, internet access, sanitation, lighting and emergency communication require improvement. Tourists will not choose adventure destinations where access is uncertain, and help is far away. Winter can become a season of opportunity for Kashmir, but only if adventure tourism is built on professionalism, accountability and sustainability. The snow should not merely be photographed. It should support livelihoods, strengthen local economies and expand Kashmirs tourism identity without damaging the landscape that makes it possible.
The devastating fire at Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station has once again exposed how quickly routine commercial activity can turn into a life-altering disaster when safety systems fail. Around 40 shops were gutted, valuable stocks were reduced to ash, and a bustling market was transformed into rubble. No casualties have been reported, and that is a relief. But the absence of deaths should not allow the authorities to treat the incident as a narrow escape and move on. The blaze, which broke out at around 10.45 pm on Sunday, continued for more than five hours before being brought under control at about 4 am. Firefighters from seven fire stations worked through the night, while cooling operations continued for several more hours. Their sustained effort deserves recognition. Yet the larger question is why such a large-scale fire was able to consume dozens of shops before it could be contained. Officials have cited a suspected short circuit and strong winds as factors that helped the flames spread. These may explain the immediate cause, but they do not explain the scale of the destruction. A short circuit should not be enough to wipe out an entire market. The real concern lies in the conditions that allow a spark to become a catastrophe: tightly packed shops, combustible merchandise, inadequate access, weak electrical systems and the absence of effective fire-safety planning. The narrow approach to Shiv Market reportedly made it difficult for fire tenders to reach the affected shops directly. Firefighters had to approach the blaze from the rear, losing precious time while flames spread from one establishment to another. This is not merely an operational difficulty. It is a failure of urban planning and enforcement. Markets that serve hundreds of traders and customers cannot be allowed to function as congested islands where emergency vehicles cannot reach in time. The allegation that fire tenders arrived nearly one-and-a-half hours after the outbreak must be investigated urgently. The official account says fire tenders were rushed from seven stations after the call was received. The two accounts cannot be left hanging. A transparent inquiry should establish when the first call was made, when the first response team arrived, what obstacles delayed access and whether the response was adequate for the location and scale of the emergency. For the affected traders, the fire is not an abstract statistic. It represents years of savings, stock, credit and livelihood lost in a single night. Many of the gutted shops dealt in food supplies, dry fruits and blankets, commodities that represent substantial seasonal investment. Compensation must therefore be swift, fair and sufficient, not reduced to procedural announcements and delayed assessments. The government must treat this disaster as a warning, not an isolated incident. Every market in Jammu should undergo an immediate fire-safety audit, including electrical inspections, access checks, clear emergency lanes, functional extinguishers and evacuation plans. Encroachments and hazardous storage must be removed without selective enforcement. Traders, too, must be supported and held accountable for compliance. Shiv Market can be rebuilt. But unless the failures that turned a fire into a calamity are addressed, another market will one day face the same fate. Public safety cannot remain an afterthought until the flames arrive.
The family is among the oldest institutions known to human society. Before the state, the school, the market or the modern workplace, there was the familyan intimate space where human beings first encountered love, authority, responsibility, sacrifice and belonging. It was within the family that values were transmitted, identities shaped and the vulnerable protected. Even today, despite profound changes in social life, the family remains the first institution to which people turn in moments of joy, crisis and uncertainty. Yet the family as an institution is passing through a period of serious transformation. Economic pressures, urbanisation, migration, changing aspirations, technology and shifting gender roles have altered the way families live and relate to one another. The old family structures are weakening, but the new ones have not yet fully found their balance. In this transition lies both a challenge and an opportunity. For generations, the joint family was the dominant social unit in Kashmir and elsewhere in South Asia. Several generations lived under one roof, shared resources and participated in the responsibilities of daily life. Such families often offered emotional security and practical support. Children grew up among grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins. The elderly were rarely isolated, and young parents were not left alone to manage the demands of work and childcare. But the joint family was not without its problems. It could also be a space of unequal authority, restricted personal freedom and suppressed disagreement. Women, in particular, often carried a disproportionate burden of domestic work while having limited say in family decisions. Younger members were expected to conform to inherited customs, even when those customs conflicted with their education, aspirations or individual choices. The rise of the nuclear family has provided greater privacy and independence. Young couples today often wish to make their own decisions about work, residence, education and parenting. The nuclear household can encourage companionship between spouses and allow children to grow in a less rigid environment. It can also make room for more equal relationships within the home. However, the weakening of extended family networks has created new vulnerabilities. Elderly parents may find themselves alone. Children may grow up without meaningful bonds with relatives. Working parents often struggle to balance professional commitments with childcare and household responsibilities. In the absence of a wider support system, emotional and financial pressures can become overwhelming. The answer is not to romanticise the past or reject the present. The family must not be preserved merely as a structure; it must be renewed as a relationship based on dignity, care and responsibility. A family that demands obedience but offers no understanding cannot remain a healthy institution. Likewise, a household that celebrates individual freedom but neglects duties toward the vulnerable risks becoming emotionally empty. The central strength of the family lies not in the number of people living together but in the quality of their relationships. A small family can be deeply supportive, while a large family can be marked by neglect and conflict. What matters is whether its members listen to one another, share responsibilities and make space for difference. This is especially important in relation to women. No discussion on the family can be meaningful if it ignores the unequal burdens placed on women within the household. Domestic labour is frequently treated as invisible, although it sustains the entire family. Women are expected to care for children, the elderly and the home, often while pursuing education or employment. Their sacrifices are praised, but their rights and choices are not always respected. A healthy family must recognise care work as work. Responsibilities within the home should be shared, not assigned according to outdated assumptions. Daughters and sons should receive equal encouragement and inheritance. Women should not be forced to choose between family and personal dignity. The strength of the family is not measured by how much one member can sacrifice, but by how fairly sacrifice is distributed. The family is also the first school of citizenship. Children learn from the home how to treat people who are weaker, older, poorer or different from themselves. If a child grows up watching violence, humiliation or discrimination being normalised, those behaviours may later appear acceptable in public life. If the child sees empathy, accountability and respect, those values are carried into society. This makes the family a matter of public concern, not merely a private arrangement. The state and society have a responsibility to create conditions in which families can function with dignity. Affordable housing, reliable healthcare, quality education, parental leave, support for caregivers and protection from domestic violence are not luxuries. They are essential to the wellbeing of families. Economic insecurity is one of the greatest pressures on family life today. Unemployment, rising education costs, expensive healthcare and unstable work force many young people into prolonged dependence or migration. In Kashmir, the movement of young men and women to other cities and countries has created both opportunity and emotional distance. Remittances may support households, but physical absence can leave elderly parents and children struggling with loneliness. Technology has further complicated family relationships. A home may be full of people yet emotionally disconnected, with each member absorbed in a separate screen. Digital communication can maintain contact across distances, but it cannot entirely replace presence, conversation and shared time. Families must consciously protect spaces in which members can speak without interruption and listen without judgement. The family must also become more open about mental health. Anxiety, depression, addiction and emotional distress are often dismissed as weakness or bad behaviour. Such attitudes prevent people from seeking help and deepen their suffering. A compassionate family does not shame a member for needing support; it helps them access it. At the same time, families must learn to respect the boundaries of adult members. Concern cannot become control, and love cannot be used to justify coercion. Marriage, career, education and personal belief are deeply significant decisions. Advice may be offered, but dignity requires that individuals retain the right to make decisions about their own lives. The institution of family will survive not by resisting every social change, but by responding wisely to it. Its future depends on its capacity to combine tradition with fairness, belonging with freedom and authority with accountability. The family must remain a place where people are not merely expected to perform roles, but are recognised as human beings. In a rapidly changing world, people need anchors. The family can provide such an anchorbut only if it is built on trust rather than fear, care rather than control, and mutual responsibility rather than one-sided sacrifice. Its deepest purpose is not to preserve appearances or enforce conformity. It is to help human beings grow with compassion, courage and a sense of responsibility toward others. The family, therefore, must be defendedbut not blindly. It must be protected from poverty, violence, discrimination and neglect. It must also be protected from rigid traditions that deny individual dignity. To preserve the family as an institution is to preserve its moral purpose: the creation of a space where every member can find care, respect and the confidence to face the world. (The Author is Asst Professor and writes on diverse social issues)
TECHNOLOGY & SOCIETY We talk about he cloud as if it floats. It does not. It sits in warehouses full of computers that run day and night, and they need electricity and water to stay cool. On 14 October, India's junior IT minister Jitin Prasada said the government plans a national data centre policy. Reuters reported that the aim is to let the sector grow without pushing up electricity bills for ordinary households. That promise is easy to make and hard to keep. The cloud feels weightless to the people who use it. The bill for it lands somewhere real. What the numbers say India had about 1.5 gigawatts of data centre capacity in mid-2025. A study by CEEW, an Indian policy research group, expects 4.5 to 6.5 gigawatts by 2030. It says data centres used about 150 billion litres of water in 2024, and that figure could more than double by 2030. Today the share is small. CEEW puts data centres at about 0.5 per cent of national electricity use. That is why many officials are relaxed. But Mongabay India reported in May that a map by WRI India shows more than half of India's data centres sit in water-stressed regions. The rules are thin. Data centres are not a separate category in India's environmental clearance system, so they can be treated like ordinary buildings. The government drafted a national policy in 2020 and never finalised it. Mongabay also reported that MeitY, in reply to an RTI query, said it had no information about data centres. Where the strain is already showing In Visakhapatnam, Google is building a $15 billion data centre. The Next Web reports that the city gets about 410 million litres of water a day against demand of 480 million. The state has promised the project water for 20 years and says villages will not lose drinking water. Local campaigners are not convinced, and cases are pending in the environmental court. Google says its cooling design cuts water use but does not remove it. Near Mumbai, residents living next to an Amazon data centre say it strains local power and water and adds noise. Amazon and Google reject the complaints, according to the Reuters report. A cloud that costs households nothing on paper still has to be cooled by someone's water and powered by someone's grid. Why this matters in Kashmir I could not find any announced data centre plan for Jammu and Kashmir, so this is a question about the future, not a report on a project. But the pitch is already being made for mountain regions elsewhere. Nepal's Himalayan data centre proposals are sold as naturally cooled and powered by hydropower, as the Nepali Times described in July. A researcher quoted there warned that the atural fit story is often told before the buildings exist. Kashmir's cold sounds like an advantage. Here is the catch. The cold comes in winter, and winter is when the Valley's power system is already stretched. Kashmir Life reported in April that J&K imports more than 95 per cent of its electricity in December. Greater Kashmir reported that the shortfall for December 2025 was projected at 34.2 per cent, or 1,277 megawatts. Planners told the northern grid body they may need to prepare for a winter load of 6 to 7 gigawatts by 2029-30. A big data centre here would not be pulling spare power from a surplus. It would be competing with heaters, hospitals and homes. The same cold that cools the servers is the cold that drives demand. The fair counter-argument Data centres are getting more efficient. Mongabay notes that Indian facilities now report power efficiency ratios near 1.3, down from close to 2. Some operators run on solar and wind. Better cooling and storage can also let data centres act as flexible loads that switch down at peak hours. CEEW recommends exactly that, along with public reporting of energy and water use. Those are real fixes. They only work if the policy makes them compulsory and the figures are public. A policy that promises no rise in bills but publishes no numbers asks people to take it on trust. Bottom Line Growth in AI and data centres is coming, and India has good reasons to want it at home. The test of the new policy is simple. Will it make every large data centre say, in public, how much power and water it uses, and where it gets them? For a place like Kashmir, which already goes short every winter, the answer decides whether the cloud is a gain or one more demand on a stretched grid. (The author studies Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence at Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA. He is interested in emerging technologies and innovation, and can be reached on LinkedIn at @arssh-kumar14)
A Crumbled Foundation: Why Anantnag Urgently Needs a New Maternity Hospital
Healthcare is the fundamental cornerstone of any advancing society, yet for the women of South Kashmir, the basic right to safe maternity services remains compromised. Anantnag district, which forms the medical backbone for over a million residents, is currently facing a silent crisis. Despite the regions growing population, maternal healthcare continues to depend heavily on the Maternity & Child Care Hospital (MCCH) in Sherbagh. Operating from a dilapidated facility that was declared structural and fire-deficient over a decade ago, the absolute need for a modern, dedicated maternity hospital in Anantnag has never been more urgent. The Suffocating Catchment Area The current infrastructure at Sherbagh does not just serve Anantnag town. It operates as the primary referral center for the entire South Kashmir belt, handling heavy patient flows from Kulgam, Shopian, and Pulwama, as well as remote hill communities from Ramban and the Chenab Valley. With only two labor wards, four surgical wards, and a single operating theatre, the existing system is overwhelmed. It is a daily occurrence to see multiple expectant mothers forced to share a single bed, while others wait for critical care in congested corridors. For a specialty that fundamentally demands hygiene, privacy, and stress reduction, the overcrowded environment poses severe health risks to both mothers and newborns. Economic Strain and the Private Exodus Due to the constraints of the public health facility, vulnerable families are frequently forced into a corner. Facing long queues and overstretched resources, many feel they have no choice but to turn to private nursing homes. This desperation feeds an expensive private market where families, often from low-income agricultural backgrounds, take on heavy financial debt to pay for emergency C-sections and neonatal care. A modern, fully-equipped government maternity hospital is vital to ensure that safe delivery is a universal guarantee, rather than a luxury reserved only for those who can afford private bills. Funding Ready, but Progress Stalled The tragedy of the situation lies not in a lack of administrative intent, but in logistical execution. The Jammu and Kashmir government allocated86 croreto construct a new250-bed Maternal and Child Care Hospital. However, the project has hit persistent bottlenecks. An initial plan to build the hospital at the Janglat Mandi site adjacent to theGovernment Medical College (GMC), Anantnagwas deemed unfeasible due to severe space constraints. During a recent review meeting, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed that while the funds are securely in place, the project is awaiting the finalization of a suitable alternative site. The Path Forward Every day spent searching for land is another day that pregnant women are exposed to an unsafe environment. The health administration, civil society, and local representatives must fast-track the acquisition of an accessible alternative location to break ground on construction. Building a state-of-the-art maternity hospital in Anantnag is no longer a standard development goal; it is a critical necessity. The mothers of South Kashmir deserve a safe space to give birth, staffed by the region's capable medical professionals, without compromising their dignity or their safety. Reimagining Public Space for Progress: A Comprehensive Blueprint for Healthcare and Sports in Anantnag The fundamental test of progressive governance lies in its capacity to adapt public infrastructure to the immediate, shifting realities of its people. As a representative of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) from Anantnag, I am putting forward a dual-purpose infrastructure proposal to the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) government. The administrative discourse surrounding our district has reached a critical juncture, highlighted by Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs acknowledgment that the initially proposed site for the crucial 250-bedded Maternity and Child Care Hospital (MCCH) at Janglat Mandi faces severe space constraints. In light of this, the JKNC leadership must look beyond conventional options and consider an innovative, adaptive solution: repurposing the centrally located Sports Stadium at Anantnag into a state-of-the-art maternity hospital, while simultaneously shifting and elevating our athletic infrastructure by building an international-standard sports complex at the expansive Mattan Sports Ground. The arguments favoring this structural shift are grounded in emergency response logistics and urban necessity. For decades, the existing maternity facilities in South Kashmirsuch as the heavily congested Sherbagh locality facilityhave buckled under heavy patient loads, space constraints, and deteriorating conditions. Expectant mothers and families from peripheral villages face immense hardships navigating chaotic traffic to access emergency maternal care. The Lal Chowck Sports Stadium sits at a highly accessible nexus within the urban core. By converting this site into the district's primary maternity and childcare hub, the government can leverage a prime, centrally located plot to build high-capacity surgical theaters, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), and specialized recovery wards. This provides a spacious, highly reachable medical sanctuary that completely bypasses the geographic limits hindering the Janglat Mandi proposal. Crucially, this plan does not abandon the athletic spirit or needs of the youth in Anantnag; instead, it upgrades them. While the Lal Chowk Stadium is a popular venue for local football and youth matches, its location within a dense commercial zone severely limits its potential for future physical expansion. True athletic advancement requires room to grow. The Mattan Cricket Ground, a historic and scenic sports venue situated just a short drive away along the KP Road corridor, offers the geographic canvas necessary to build a premier sports ecosystem. The site features expansive acreage, an open environment, and pre-existing community use for tournaments like the Mattan Champions League. It provides the perfect footprint for a multi-discipline sports complex complete with global-standard turf wickets, athletic tracks, modern pavilion galleries, and dedicated training academies. Implementing this comprehensive model allows the JKNC administration to resolve two persistent developmental challenges at once. Rather than exhausting resources on piecemeal renovations or compromised plots, this initiative balances urgent public welfare with visionary sports development. Repurposing the Lal delivers life-saving, accessible medical care to the heart of the town, while transforming the Mattan Ground gives our youth an elite arena that puts South Kashmir firmly on the national sports map. On behalf of the student body and the youth of Anantnag, I urge the government to adopt this adaptive reuse strategy to create a healthier, more progressive, and structurally sound district (The author is pursuing his M. Tech in Power Systems and is a member of NSUI. Feedback: fahadpeer07@gmail.com )
The Growing Threat of Cyber Insecurity: The Hidden Cost of Digital Progress
The digital revolution has transformed the way we communicate, learn, work, shop and access essential services. From online banking and digital payments to virtual classrooms and government services, technology has made life faster, more convenient and increasingly connected. However, alongside these remarkable achievements, a serious challenge is emerging: the growing threat of cyber insecurity. In today's world, a smartphone is no longer merely a communication device. It is a digital wallet, a classroom, a workplace and a gateway to personal information. Yet, while millions of people are rapidly adopting digital technologies, many remain unaware of the risks associated with their online activities. This gap between technological advancement and digital awareness has created opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit innocent users. When Convenience Becomes Vulnerability Cybercrime is no longer limited to technical experts or large organisations. Ordinary citizens, students, teachers, small business owners and elderly people can all become targets. Fraudulent calls, fake links, impersonation, phishing messages, identity theft, financial scams and the misuse of personal information are among the growing concerns of the digital age. A single careless click, an unverified payment request or the sharing of a one-time password (OTP) can have serious consequences. Criminals frequently exploit human emotions such as fear, greed, urgency and trust. They may impersonate bank officials, government representatives, delivery agents or even relatives and friends to convince people to disclose confidential information. The greatest concern is that cybercriminals often exploit not only technological weaknesses but also human carelessness. As a result, cybersecurity must be understood as a shared responsibility rather than a matter exclusively for technical professionals. The Education System Must Respond Educational institutions have a significant role to play in addressing this challenge. Schools are no longer places where children learn only from textbooks and classroom discussions. Students increasingly use smartphones, educational applications, social media platforms and artificial intelligence tools to obtain information and complete assignments. Although these technologies offer valuable learning opportunities, unregulated use can expose children to misinformation, online manipulation, privacy violations and digital fraud. Many students know how to operate applications but may not understand how online scams work, why personal information must be protected or how to verify the credibility of digital content. Digital literacy, therefore, must go beyond teaching students how to use technology. It should help them understand how to use it safely, ethically and responsibly. Schools should organise regular awareness sessions on cyber safety, password security, privacy settings, online bullying, misinformation and responsible digital communication. Teachers and parents should work together to encourage children to question suspicious messages, avoid unknown links and report uncomfortable or threatening online experiences to trusted adults. The objective should not be to create fear of technology but to develop the knowledge and judgement necessary to use it wisely. Artificial Intelligence: A New Dimension of Cyber Risk Artificial intelligence has opened new possibilities in education, healthcare, communication and public administration. However, it has also introduced additional challenges. Fraudsters can misuse AI-generated content to create convincing messages, imitate voices, manipulate images and produce misleading information. Such developments make it increasingly difficult for ordinary users to distinguish genuine communication from fabricated content. A familiar voice or a realistic-looking message should no longer be accepted as unquestionable proof of authenticity. People must develop the habit of independently verifying unusual requests, especially those involving money, confidential information or urgent assistance. When a message appears suspicious, contacting the concerned person through a previously verified phone number or communication channel can help prevent fraud. Technological progress must be accompanied by public awareness, ethical safeguards and effective accountability. Rural Communities Must Not Be Left Behind Cybersecurity awareness is particularly important in rural and remote areas, where digital services are expanding rapidly but access to reliable guidance may remain limited. People who are new to online banking, digital payments and government portals may find it difficult to recognise sophisticated scams. In regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, digital services have created opportunities for students, entrepreneurs, farmers and ordinary citizens. Online platforms can improve access to information, education and essential services. However, the benefits of digital development can be undermined when users lack the confidence or knowledge to identify online fraud. Awareness programmes should reach villages, schools, panchayats and community centres. Banks, educational institutions, local administration and community organisations can jointly conduct practical sessions explaining common fraud tactics and safe online practices. Such initiatives should be accessible in local languages so that people of different educational backgrounds can understand and apply the guidance. Cybersecurity awareness must reach those who need it most, rather than remaining confined to urban centres and technically informed communities. Personal Responsibility in the Digital World Although governments, financial institutions and technology companies have important responsibilities, individuals can take several practical steps to reduce their exposure to cyber threats. People should use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication wherever available. OTPs, PINs, passwords and banking credentials must never be disclosed to unknown callers or unverified websites. Suspicious links and attachments should be avoided, and applications should be downloaded from trusted sources. Users should also verify the authenticity of websites before entering sensitive information, keep their devices and applications updated, and avoid sharing unnecessary personal details publicly. Public Wi-Fi networks should be used cautiously, particularly when accessing sensitive accounts. Equally important is the need to report suspected cybercrime promptly. Preserving relevant messages, transaction details, and other available evidence can help authorities investigate incidents. In India, suspected cyber financial fraud can be reported through the official National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in or by calling the cybercrime helpline 1930. Cybersecurity does not require every citizen to become a technical expert. It requires people to develop safe habits, remain alert and seek assistance when something appears suspicious. The Need for Collective Action Cyber insecurity cannot be addressed through individual caution alone. Governments must strengthen cybersecurity systems, improve public awareness and ensure that reporting mechanisms are accessible. Financial institutions and digital platforms should invest in stronger security measures, transparent communication and timely assistance for affected users. Technology companies must also take privacy seriously and design services that protect users from foreseeable risks. At the same time, law-enforcement agencies need appropriate training and resources to investigate cybercrime effectively. Public awareness campaigns should be continuous rather than limited to occasional events. Cyber threats evolve, and the methods used by criminals change accordingly. Regular education is therefore essential to help citizens recognise new risks and respond appropriately. Progress Must Be Accompanied by Protection Digital development is an important indicator of progress, but the true success of technology cannot be measured merely by the number of people connected to the internet or the volume of online transactions. It must also be measured by the safety, confidence and trust with which people use digital services. A society that adopts technology without developing digital responsibility risks turning convenience into vulnerability. Conversely, a digitally aware society can use innovation to improve education, strengthen public services and create economic opportunities while reducing avoidable harm. The challenge before us is not to retreat from technology but to become wiser in its use. Every student must learn digital responsibility, every household must understand basic cyber safety, and every institution must recognise the importance of protecting personal information. The future belongs to a society that is not only digitally connected but also digitally secure. Cybersecurity must become an essential part of modern education, public awareness and everyday decision-making. Only then can the promise of digital progress be realised without allowing insecurity to become its hidden cost. ( The Author can be reached at: Ganimudasir@gmail.com )
MP seeks help for stranded Kashmiri Umrah pilgrims
Srinagar, Oct 26: Member of Parliament Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan has taken up the issue of Kashmiri Umrah pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia with Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and the Consul General of India in Jeddah, Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, seeking urgent intervention to ensure their safe return. Ramzan expressed concern over the hardships faced by the pilgrims and their families, particularly elderly people and those experiencing medical or financial difficulties. He said the prolonged uncertainty and additional expenses on accommodation, food, medicines and alternative travel arrangements had caused considerable distress among the affected pilgrims. The MP urged the concerned authorities to coordinate with relevant agencies and airlines to arrange special flights for the stranded pilgrims. He also called for financial assistance for those unable to bear the additional costs of returning home. Emphasising the need for adequate arrangements, Ramzan urged the authorities to ensure accommodation, food and medical care for the pilgrims until their departure, particularly for elderly people and those with health concerns. He stressed that the safety and well-being of all affected pilgrims should remain a priority and called for prompt, coordinated action to facilitate their early return to India.
Shaheen lays foundation for two bridges in Banihal-Gool
Banihal, Oct 26: MLA Sajjad Shaheen on Monday laid the foundation stones for two bridge projects in Banihal-Gool at a combined estimated cost of 10.25 crore, aimed at improving connectivity in the mountainous constituency. The projects include the Nagbal Bridge near the Old Toll Post on the National Highway, estimated to cost 4.50 crore, and the Ratherpora Bridge at Tantraypora, with an estimated cost of 5.70 crore. The bridges are expected to address longstanding connectivity gaps and improve access to essential services, economic activities and remote habitations. Speaking on the occasion, Shaheen said Banihal-Gool had faced a development deficit for decades and that sustained efforts were being made to address infrastructure requirements in coordination with the government and concerned departments. He said the constituencys development agenda over the past two years had focused on improving road connectivity, strengthening bridge infrastructure, upgrading educational and healthcare facilities, improving power supply and addressing drinking water shortages. Shaheen said several road projects had been sanctioned and taken up under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), while work was also underway to improve connectivity to remote areas. He added that allocations had been secured for school infrastructure, smart classrooms and other basic facilities. Highlighting the tourism potential of Banihal-Gool, the MLA said efforts were being made to develop scenic destinations and promote eco-tourism to generate livelihood opportunities for local youth and strengthen the rural economy. He reiterated that equitable development across the constituency, particularly in underserved villages, remained a priority and stressed the timely implementation of development works. Shaheen thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary for their support in advancing development initiatives in the constituency. Executive Engineer, R&B Division Banihal, Mohd Iqbal Ganai, Assistant Executive Engineer Naseer Ahmed Wani, officials from the R&B and PHE departments, party functionaries and local residents were present on the occasion.
Jammu railway division to re-engage retired accounts staff
Jammu, Oct 26: The Jammu Railway Division has decided to re-engage retired railway employees in its Accounts Department to address staff shortages and strengthen financial management. The division will fill three posts of Senior Section Officer (Accounts) in Pay Level 8 or 9, in accordance with Railway Board guidelines. The move follows the re-engagement of around 25 retired employees in the Commercial and Operating departments, which the railway administration said had prompted the expansion of the initiative to the Accounts Department. Eligible applicants must have retired from the Senior Section Officer (Accounts) cadre and should not be older than 64 years and six months on the last date of application. The engagement will remain valid only until the age of 65. Candidates must have secured at least a Good grading in their Annual Performance Appraisal Reports (APARs) for the last five years. Preference will be given to applicants who retired from the relevant pay level. No written examination will be conducted. A nominated committee will assess candidates on the basis of their APAR gradings, work experience, interview and vigilance and disciplinary clearance. Medical fitness certification by the Railway Medical Authority will be mandatory before final selection. Interested and eligible candidates can visit the office of the Senior Divisional Finance Manager, Jammu Division, for detailed information and application-related formalities.
From courtroom to Kashmirs alpine lakes
For some, the mountains are places of escape; for others, they become a lifelong pursuit. For advocate Sameer Rather, the mountains represent a world of discovery, discipline and perseverance a passion that continues to grow alongside his professional life in the courtroom. His journey began with an unplanned childhood adventure to Zaji Marg when he was in Class 8. Years later, that first experience has evolved into an extensive exploration of alpine lakes, challenging summits and remote Himalayan landscapes. Having explored more than 200 alpine lakes and summited 14 peaks, Rather has developed a deep interest in documenting the regions natural geography and encouraging responsible mountain exploration. In this conversation with Rising Kashmir, he reflects on his journey, the people who inspired him and the lessons the mountains continue to teach him. RK: Your journey into the mountains began when you were in Class 8. Take us back to that first experience. SR: My journey began unexpectedly when my cousins and I decided to visit the meadows of Zaji Marg without any proper preparation. We never imagined that we would have to spend the night there. Suddenly, the weather deteriorated, leaving us with no option but to stay. Fortunately, we found shelter with some shepherds. I still remember paying just 100 to a Bakirwal for an overnight stay and food. It was a bitterly cold night. Early the following morning, a shepherd told us about a lake situated higher up in the mountains. We were curious to see it, so we made our way towards the lake without knowing its name or much about its surroundings. It was only five years later that I learnt it was called Brahma Sar. That unplanned adventure became my first trekking experience and marked the beginning of my lifelong connection with the mountains. RK: How did that childhood adventure develop into a serious interest in trekking and mountaineering? SR: After 2014, my friends and I started visiting Shankaracharya almost every Sunday. Gradually, my curiosity took me beyond familiar trails and into the surrounding meadows. Along with a friend, I began looking for trekking groups that could help us explore the mountains more systematically. Eventually, I discovered the Jammu and Kashmir Mountaineering and Hiking Club, which organised Sunday treks. I started joining its outings almost every weekend. Later, I also trekked with private groups such as Alpine Adventures, founded by the late Adil Shah; Harmukh Adventure, later renamed the All Jammu and Kashmir Mountaineering Foundation, led by Danish Darr; and Pathfinders, associated with Tani Khan. The trekking community was relatively small at that time, comprising approximately 40 members and regular trekkers. Those early years were important because I learnt not only about the mountains but also from the experiences of people who had spent years exploring them. RK: You have often spoken about late Adil Shahs influence on your journey. What role did he play in shaping you as an explorer? SR: Adil Shah was my greatest inspiration and mentor. His knowledge, dedication and approach to the mountains left a lasting impression on me. I followed numerous trails under his guidance and learnt valuable lessons from his experience. One memorable expedition was our ascent of Sunset Peak, where photographs shared by him helped guide our journey. For me, he was more than an experienced trekker. He helped me develop the confidence to explore unfamiliar routes and undertake challenging expeditions. The lessons I learnt from him continue to guide me whenever I step into the mountains. RK) When did trekking become something more challenging a pursuit of summits and serious mountaineering objectives? SR: A significant phase began when I started practising climbing at the artificial climbing wall in Nowgam. It was there that I met Nahida Manzoor, and during that period I also met Momin Mushtaq. Our shared passion for the mountains gradually developed into a more serious approach to trekking and mountaineering. Together with Momin Mushtaq and Adnan Amin, I planned and undertook several expeditions, including around six peak-summiting objectives. One of our significant achievements was a winter ascent of Mount Mahadev, during which we established what we regarded as the first summit camp on the peak. We summited Sunset Peak in 2018 and returned to it in 2019. Later, our expeditions took us to Kotwal Peak, Tattakuti and several other destinations. These experiences taught me that mountaineering is not simply about physical strength. Preparation, teamwork, endurance and the ability to make decisions in difficult situations are equally important. RK: You have explored more than 200 alpine lakes. What do these milestones mean to you personally? SR: June 2025 was an important milestone for me. During a trek in the Hirpora region, I completed my 100th alpine lake, Sanan Sar. Later that year, I reached my 150th lake at Nilgur. On October 11, 2025, I completed my 200th alpine lake, and by that point I had also reached a total of 14 summits. However, I do not look at these achievements simply as numbers. Every lake represents a goal that requires planning, preparation, physical effort and mental endurance. Sometimes, reaching a lake may take several days of walking through difficult terrain. Before beginning an expedition, we have to consider the route, weather, equipment, finances and the capabilities of the team. For me, the real achievement lies in the entire journey the preparation, the challenges we overcome and the knowledge we gain along the way. RK: You have undertaken several expeditions in the Kishtwar region. What makes exploring this area particularly challenging? SR: Kishtwar has some demanding and remote mountain landscapes. Exploring such areas requires considerable planning, patience and determination. We undertook three separate five-day expeditions in the region, with the objective of exploring targeted areas and locating alpine lakes. During these expeditions, we explored numerous lakes and identified approximately 12 that we considered new discoveries. Exploration in remote areas is never easy. The terrain can be difficult, routes may be unfamiliar, and the team must remain prepared for changing conditions. These experiences have taught me that every mountain has its own character. No two expeditions are exactly alike, and each one offers a different lesson. Our explorations have also taken us to Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, allowing us to experience the diversity of the Himalayan landscape. RK: Trekking has become increasingly popular among young people. What advice would you give to those who want to explore Kashmirs mountains? SR: I strongly encourage young people to explore the mountains, but they must do so responsibly. Before venturing into unfamiliar areas, trekkers should learn map reading and navigation, understand weather conditions, carry appropriate equipment and assess the risks associated with their chosen routes. They should also plan their expeditions properly and, wherever necessary, travel with experienced team leaders and qualified local guides who understand the terrain. The mountains are beautiful, but they can also be unpredictable. Reaching a destination should never become more important than the safety of the team. Above all, trekkers must respect nature. They should never leave litter behind or disturb the environment unnecessarily. A successful trek is one in which everyone returns safely and the landscape remains as undisturbed as possible. RK: Beyond trekking, you have also been writing articles and working on a book. Tell us about your efforts to document these landscapes. SR: Over the years, my interest has extended beyond trekking itself. I have written approximately 30 articles covering alpine lakes, mountains, geography, topography, glaciers and related subjects. Although these articles remain unpublished, I hope to share them with a wider audience in the future. I am also working on a book that will bring together the information and observations I have collected over the years. I hope to complete and publish it within the next two years. My aim is to document the landscapes we explore and contribute to a better understanding of Jammu and Kashmirs mountain environment. Alongside this work, we also organise cleanliness drives in higher-altitude areas. I believe that exploring the mountains comes with a responsibility to protect them. The alpine lakes, glaciers, meadows and trails that inspire us deserve to be preserved for future generations. RK: You are an advocate by profession and a mountaineer by passion. How do you balance life between the courtroom and the mountains? SR: The courtroom and the mountains may appear to be two very different worlds, but I believe they share several important qualities. As an advocate, I have to be disciplined, patient, prepared and responsible. In the mountains, these same qualities are essential. Every expedition requires planning, careful assessment and the ability to make decisions under uncertain conditions. The courtroom teaches me to examine facts, remain composed and think critically. The mountains teach me humility, resilience and respect for nature. Balancing the two requires time management and commitment, but the mountains have become an inseparable part of my life. They offer a different perspective and constantly remind me that there is always more to learn. For me, both pursuits demand dedication and the willingness to keep improving. RK: After exploring more than 200 alpine lakes and summiting 14 peaks, what lies ahead for you? SR: I believe there is still so much left to explore, learn and document. The milestones I have achieved are important, but they are not the final destination. There are many trails to discover, landscapes to understand and stories to document. I want to continue exploring responsibly, share the knowledge I have gathered and contribute to preserving the natural heritage of our mountains. I also want young people to understand that exploration is not about competing with others or simply increasing the number of lakes and summits on a list. It is about discovering the unknown, challenging your own limits, learning from experienced people and respecting nature. Every expedition reminds me how far I have come since that first unplanned trek during my school days. At the same time, it reminds me how much remains unknown. For Sameer Rather, the courtroom may be where he practises his profession, but the mountains remain where his curiosity finds its direction. From a cold night in Zaji Marg to the remote alpine landscapes of Kashmir, his journey is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful adventures begin without a plan and continue for a lifetime.
Water shortage hits GMC Handwara
Handwara, Oct 26: Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara is facing a persistent water shortage, causing concern among patients, attendants and hospital staff. The shortage is particularly worrying at the dialysis centre, where an uninterrupted water supply is essential for treatment. As per reports the hospital requires an estimated 80,000 to 1.2 lakh litres of water daily, but the existing supply remains inadequate to meet its growing needs. Staff said they face water shortages at least twice a week and often manage the situation by manually filling water tanks. The seven-bed dialysis centre is currently treating around 140 patients. A single dialysis session takes about four hours, while each machine consumes approximately 350 litres of water during that period. The reverse osmosis (RO) purification system also wastes a substantial portion of incoming water. Masooq Ahmad, an attendant from Ahagam, Rajwar whose wife has been undergoing dialysis for the past four years, said the centre's establishment in Handwara had brought significant relief to his family. Earlier, I had to take my wife to Sopore or Kupwara. Since the dialysis centre started functioning in Handwara, I have received much relief, he said. Ahmad, a labourer by profession, said the staff were managing the shortage but expressed concern over the manual filling of water tanks. Sometimes, we may receive a call asking us not to come because there is no water. Water should not become a problem in treating kidney patients, he added. Kaiser Ahmad, a resident of Mawer whose wife is receiving dialysis at the centre, said reports of water shortages caused stress among families. With winter approaching, he fears freezing pipelines could worsen the situation. Jamsheed Ahmad another attendant said the existing water infrastructure had not kept pace with the hospital's expansion. He urged the government to establish a dedicated supply pipeline, citing around 1,500 daily outpatient visits and the six-storey hospital building. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, a hospital official said the administration was manually filling tanks to keep the dialysis centre operational. A recently started tubewell had not yielded clean water, prompting plans to dig it deeper. The official said the matter had been taken up with higher authorities. The existing two-inch main supply line needs upgrading to at least four inches, while a two-lakh-litre reservoir is also required, particularly ahead of the proposed 200-bed hospital becoming operational.
AIP backs casual employees regularisation demand
Srinagar, Oct 26: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) chief spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Monday joined a protest organised by the Jammu Kashmir Casual Labours United Front and expressed solidarity with casual employees demanding regularisation. Addressing the protesters, Inam said the employees struggle was about dignity, justice and the future of thousands of families who had served government departments for years without job security. If the government can depend on their services for years, why can it not provide them with job security? Families cannot survive on assurances and employees cannot spend their entire lives waiting for regularisation, he said. Questioning the governments priorities, Inam said the same urgency shown in official functions, publicity campaigns and administrative activities should be reflected in addressing the long-pending demands of casual employees. He urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to announce a transparent, legally sustainable and time-bound regularisation policy for eligible employees, with a clear roadmap and fixed timelines. Casual employees and daily wagers are not seeking charity. They are demanding justice for their years of service. The government must move beyond assurances and take concrete decisions to secure their future, he said. Reaffirming AIPs support, Inam said the party would continue to raise the employees concerns and seek accountability until meaningful steps were taken to address their demands. The employees need a policy, a timeline and implementation, not another assurance, he added.
Handwara Police seize machinery, material at GMC site
Handwara, Oct 26: Handwara Police have launched a major crackdown on alleged illegal mining and dumping of construction material at the under-construction Government Medical College (GMC) site in Chogal, seizing a huge stock of material estimated to be worth Rs 1 crore to Rs 2 crore, subject to official assessment. As per reports, the material was allegedly being dumped and stored at the GMC site before being processed into sand, bajri, stone dust and other construction material. The processed material was reportedly transported to other districts of the Valley for sale. Reports also said that the alleged practice had been going on for a long time. The latest police action has brought the dumping and processing activity at the site under scrutiny, raising questions about the unauthorised storage, processing and movement of the material. During the operation, police seized 17 vehicles and machines, including three JCBs, seven dumpers and seven mixer vehicles. The action was carried out under the supervision of the SDPO Handwara, with assistance from the In-charge Police Post Chogal. During the raid, the police team found a large quantity of Nallah muck allegedly dumped and stored at the site by the contractor concerned. When asked to produce the requisite permissions and supporting documents for storing and processing the material, the contractor reportedly failed to do so. Following the detection, the Tehsildar Handwara and officials of the Mining Department were called to the spot for a joint inspection. The inspection indicated that the material was allegedly being processed for unauthorised sale and supply to various projects across the Valley. The entire stock was seized and handed over to the Mining Department for assessment, valuation and further legal action. The crackdown marks a significant action by Handwara Police against alleged illegal mining-related activities in the area. Further action in the case is expected following the official assessment and examination of the relevant permissions and records.
Tourism secretary assures support to Sonamarg
Ganderbal, Oct 25 : Secretary Tourism Avny Lavasa has assured support to the local tourism industry in Sonamarg, saying issues related to electricity supply, snow clearance and winter tourism activities will be taken up with the district administration to ensure better coordination among various departments. Lavasa, who interacted with representatives of the Hotel Association and Market Association during her visit to Sonamarg, said her primary objective was to understand the challenges faced by local stakeholders and explore measures to address their concerns ahead of the winter season. She said the issues raised by the associations, particularly those concerning power supply and snow clearance, would be discussed with the district administration, adding that coordinated efforts were necessary to facilitate winter tourism and provide the required support to local tourism stakeholders. Responding to concerns over the comparatively limited number of festivals and tourism promotion activities in Sonamarg as compared to Gulmarg, Lavasa said the matter would be examined and efforts would be made to promote the destination more effectively. She said the department would work towards exploring opportunities to strengthen Sonamarg's tourism profile and improve its appeal as a winter destination. On the newly constructed Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in Sonamarg, the Secretary Tourism described the project as a positive step towards scientific treatment of sewage waste and environmental protection. She said the plant would be commissioned soon, adding that although the network connectivity was still pending, sewage collected through the municipality's suction and jetting machines would be treated at the facility. Regarding the promotion of winter tourism activities, Lavasa said she had been briefed by the concerned officer about the proposed initiatives and that a joint meeting with the Tourism Directorate would be held to work out a plan.
Ajay Devgn wraps up Kargil shoot for Chauhaan
Srinagar, Oct 26: Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn has wrapped up the Kargil shooting schedule of his upcoming film Chauhaan. The actor returned to Kargil in Ladakh on October 14 after a gap of 23 years to shoot the film, revisiting the mountainous region where he had earlier filmed portions of the 2003 war drama LOC: Kargil. A member of the production team overseeing the shoot told Rising Kashmir that Devgn had completed the Kargil schedule and returned to Mumbai. The actor has finished the Kargil shoot. He has flown back to Mumbai, the team member said. On Saturday, Devgn was spotted at the hill station of Sonamarg. According to the production team member, the actor stayed there overnight after completing the shoot before leaving the following day via Srinagar. The film is directed by Neeraj Yadav and produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Aanand L Rai and Himanshu Sharma under Jio Studios and Colour Yellow Productions. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on October 1, 2027. The project was announced on June 25, 2026, the birth anniversary of Devgns late father, action director Veeru Devgan. Its promotional video introduced the actor in an intense action avatar and ended with the dialogue, Pathaanon se kehna, Chauhaan aa raha hai (Tell the Pathaans, Chauhaan is coming). Rising Kashmir learnt that the actor enjoyed Kargils cold weather, much like he did during an earlier shoot in the region in 2003. Devgns association with Jammu and Kashmir extends beyond his two visits to Ladakh for LOC: Kargil and Chauhaan. In 1999, he starred in Dil Kya Kare, directed by Prakash Jha and produced by his father, Veeru Devgan, alongside Veena Devgan and Kumaar Mangat. The film featured Kajol, Mahima Chaudhry and Chandrachur Singh and explored themes of love, family and difficult personal choices. In 2024, Devgn returned to Kashmir for Rohit Shettys Singham Again, the fifth instalment in the filmmakers popular cop universe. The films shooting schedule included sequences filmed in Srinagars downtown, Lal Chowk and Sonamarg in May 2024, with Devgn appearing alongside Jackie Shroff. The shoot drew attention from residents as the production team filmed action sequences under tight security.
Govt amends MV Rules to permit pure ethanol flex-fuel vehicles
New Delhi: The Road Transport Ministry on Monday notified changes to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989, allowing flex-fuel vehicles that can run on up to E100 (nearly pure ethanol). E100 fuel allows vehicles to run on nearly pure ethanol. A senior road transport ministry official said fuel beyond E20 (20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol) [] The post Govt amends MV Rules to permit pure ethanol flex-fuel vehicles appeared first on Northlines .
Centre invites applicants for two posts of Information Commissioners in CIC
New Delhi: The Centre has sought applications from eligible candidates to fill two posts of information commissioners in the transparency watchdog CIC, according to an official order. The Central Information Commission, mandated to decide appeals and complaints under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, is headed by a chief information commissioner and can have a [] The post Centre invites applicants for two posts of Information Commissioners in CIC appeared first on Northlines .
Do not release provisional census data to press: RGI to states, UTs
New Delhi: The Registrar General of India (RGI) has directed its countrywide units in states and union territories not to use or release to the press any data or population figures collected during the Census 2027. In a communique to chief secretaries of all states and its directorate, RGI and Census Commissioner Mrityunjay Kumar Narayan [] The post Do not release provisional census data to press: RGI to states, UTs appeared first on Northlines .
BJP celebrates 79th anniversary of J
Protests over Kharges remarks on PMs father Jammu Tawi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday celebrated the 79th anniversary of Jammu and Kashmirs accession to the Union of India. The BJP leaders and workers assembled at the party office here and distributed sweets to celebrate the decision taken by Maharaja Hari Singh to [] The post BJP celebrates 79th anniversary of J&Ks accession to India appeared first on Northlines .
Search operation launched in Kathua after suspicious movement
Jammu Tawi: Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in a forest area of Kathua district on Monday following reports by villagers about the presence of suspected persons, officials said. A joint team of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Special Operations Group (SOG), Army and CRPF launched a search operation in the Karnadi area [] The post Search operation launched in Kathua after suspicious movement appeared first on Northlines .
Winter Safety Cannot Be a Seasonal Afterthought
Winter in Kashmir is not merely a change of season. It is a period that tests the Valleys homes, roads, hospitals, power infrastructure and public services. As temperatures fall and snow, fog and freezing conditions become part of daily life, safety precautions cannot remain limited to occasional advisories. They must become a shared public responsibility backed by sustained administrative preparedness. The recent fire at Kaka Sarai, where a major blaze spread through commercial and residential structures and threatened a nearby hospital, offers an important warning as winter approaches. The emergency response was commendable. Fire and Emergency Services personnel, supported by the police, SDRF and other agencies, evacuated patients safely and battled the flames for nearly seven hours. But winter brings its own set of recurring hazards, many of which are preventable. The use of heating appliances, gas heaters, electric blankets, boilers and improvised warming arrangements increases sharply during the cold months. Faulty wiring, overloaded sockets, unattended heaters and poorly ventilated rooms can quickly turn a source of warmth into a deadly threat. Carbon monoxide poisoning, often caused by the use of gas or coal-based heating devices in closed spaces, remains a silent danger that families must not ignore. Every household needs to inspect electrical wiring, avoid overloading circuits and keep heaters away from curtains, bedding and other inflammable material. Children and elderly persons require special attention, particularly in homes where heating appliances remain in use for long hours. Chimneys, flues and ventilation outlets must be cleaned and kept unobstructed. A heater should never be left running while people are asleep or when no one is present. The administration, meanwhile, must ensure that safety inspections are not conducted only after an accident. Commercial establishments storing polythene, tarpaulin, furnishing material, fuel or other inflammable goods should undergo regular fire audits. Hospitals, schools, markets and residential-cum-commercial buildings must have functional extinguishers, accessible exits and clear evacuation plans. Fire tenders should be able to reach congested localities without being blocked by encroachments, illegal parking or narrow access lanes. Winter safety also extends beyond fire prevention. Snow clearance, removal of ice from roads, protection of water supply lines, safe use of generators and timely restoration of power are essential to public safety. Authorities must identify vulnerable households, ensure emergency helplines remain responsive and prepare for disruptions caused by snowfall, avalanches or prolonged cold waves. Citizens, too, must treat safety advisories seriously. A small precaution taken before winter can prevent a large tragedy. Awareness campaigns should reach every neighbourhood, not remain confined to official websites and press releases. Kashmir cannot prevent winter from being severe. It can, however, prevent negligence from making it more dangerous. The true measure of preparedness is not how impressively authorities respond after disaster strikes, but how effectively they reduce the possibility of disaster in the first place.
Probe ordered into alleged tender irregularities in R
Four-member committee to examine works allotment process Srinagar, Oct 26: The Jammu and Kashmir government has ordered an in-depth fact-finding inquiry into alleged irregularities in the allotment of works by the Public Works (Roads and Buildings) Division, Anantnag, directing a four-member committee to examine the tendering process and identify officials responsible for any violations. As [] The post Probe ordered into alleged tender irregularities in R&B Div appeared first on Northlines .
Massive fire guts 40 shops near Jammu Railway Station
Div Com, DC assure all possible support to victims Jammu Tawi, Oct 26: Around 40 shops were gutted in a massive fire at Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station late Sunday night, causing extensive damage to merchandise and property, officials said on Monday. An official of the Fire and Emergency Services said that no casualties [] The post Massive fire guts 40 shops near Jammu Railway Station appeared first on Northlines .
A week before November 3 midterm, Democrats edge ahead of Republicans
Massive spendings by both sides mark the last phase of fierce campaigning By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers NEW YORK: Suburban Philadelphia offered no refuge from the cold autumn air. Outside, the roadside billboards told a tale of two realities. One blared a line about Restoring Order and American Strength, while the other carried a [] The post A week before November 3 midterm, Democrats edge ahead of Republicans appeared first on Northlines .
The UK, EU spent billions on Ukraine to proxy-fight Russia
Syrian civil war is the longest modern era proxy fight By Nantoo Banerjee The long-drawn Ukraine-Russia war seems to be turning out to become the worlds largest and most expensive proxy war in the modern era, in which the European Union and the United Kingdom have so far spent nearly $300 billion on [] The post The UK, EU spent billions on Ukraine to proxy-fight Russia appeared first on Northlines .
22-Year-Old BSF Woman Constable Dies in Road Accident in Samba
SRINAGAR: A 22-year-old Border Security Force (BSF) woman constable, identified as Savita Devi, died in a road accident in the Panjtilla area of Jammu and Kashmirs Samba district while she was heading home on her scooty. Devi was reportedly on leave when her scooty collided with an unidentified vehicle, resulting in her death. Police have []
Govt Committed to Ensure Smooth Winter Tourism Activities in Sonamarg: Avny Lavasa
SRINAGAR: Secretary Tourism, Avny Lavasa, on Monday said that issues related to electricity supply, snow clearance and other requirements would be taken up with the Ganderbal district administration to ensure smooth tourism activities during the upcoming winter season in Sonamarg. Talking to reporters here Lavasa said, representatives of the Hotel and Market Association met her []
Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 Observed in District Sham
Khaltsi, October 26, 2026: Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 was observed in District Sham at the Conference Hall of the Deputy Commissioners Office, Sham, under the theme Probity of Prosperity. The week-long observance is being held across the country from October 26 to November 1, 2026, to promote integrity, transparency, accountability and a corruption-free society. The [] The post Vigilance Awareness Week 2026 Observed in District Sham appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Ranji Trophy: Baroda Fight Back After Early Setbacks Against Jammu Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Priyanshu Moliyas unbeaten century helped Baroda recover from a middle-order collapse to reach 259 for six at stumps on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match against Jammu and Kashmir at the Reliance Cricket Ground in Vadodara on Monday. Moliya was unbeaten on 113 off 220 deliveries, anchoring the innings []
The Other Side of Rehabilitation: A Home, But at What Cost?
By: Chandrani Das Four years after families from Bhoomiheen Camp were relocated to permanent housing in south-east Delhi, recurring complaints about water supply, sanitation and deteriorating common spaces raise questions about what rehabilitation means beyond the handing over of keys. Three people were injured in a violent incident at Asha Kiran Apartments in Govindpuri, Delhi, [] The post The Other Side of Rehabilitation: A Home, But at What Cost? appeared first on Northlines .
Gilgit-Baltistan region has strategic importance
Prabhat Kishore In October 1947, the tribes backed by Pakistan army as well as a particular section of Maharajas own army had captured a large portion of territory of Jammu & Kashmir. On the other hand, Major William Brown, the Commander of Maharaja Hari Singh in Gilgit-Baltistan mutinied on 1stNovember 1947, overthrowed Governer Ghanasar Singh [] The post Gilgit-Baltistan region has strategic importance appeared first on Northlines .
Srinagar Man Among Four Held with Fake Gold Coins in Banihal
SRINAGAR: A Srinagar resident was among four persons apprehended by police after fake gold coins were recovered from their possession during checking in Banihal, officials said on Monday. An official said that the four were travelling from Jammu towards Srinagar when they were intercepted at the tunnel. He said fake gold coins were recovered during []
Police Seize 11 Vehicles Over Illegal Mining in Baramulla
SRINAGAR: Police seized 11 vehicles in different parts of north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Monday for alleged involvement in illegal mineral extraction and transportation, officials said. During a late-night operation in Jahama, police intercepted six tractors and two tippers suspected of being involved in illegal sand extraction. Legal proceedings were initiated under the Mines and []
5,000 Congress Workers from Jammu Kashmir to Attend Delhi Rally on November 1
SRINAGAR: Around 5,000 Congress leaders and workers from Jammu and Kashmir will participate in a national rally at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi on November 1 to protest alleged electoral irregularities, party leaders said. The rally is being organised under the Congresss Vote Bachao, Desh Bachao campaign and is expected to draw party workers and []
Jeddah Consulate Assures Assistance to Stranded Indian Umrah Pilgrims, Says Return Efforts Underway
SRINAGAR: The Consulate General of India in Jeddah has assured all possible assistance to Indian Umrah pilgrims affected by flight disruptions, saying efforts are underway to facilitate the early return of those stranded in Saudi Arabia. In a communication to Jammu and Kashmir National Conference MP Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan, Fahad Suri of the Consulate said []
Jammu Fire: CM Omar Abdullah Directs Aid for Affected Traders
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday expressed deep anguish over a devastating fire at Shiv Market, opposite Jammu Railway Station, which gutted around 35 to 40 shops. The Chief Minister directed the administration to extend all possible assistance to the affected shopkeepers, whose business establishments suffered extensive damage in the blaze. The fire broke []
CM Omar Expresses Anguish Over Devastating Fire at Jammu Market
Jammu : Cheif Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed deep anguish over the devastating fire at Shiv Market in Jammu, which caused extensive damage to shops and business establishments, resulting in significant losses to traders. In a post on X, the Chief Minister conveyed his concern over the incident and said that the administration had been directed to extend all possible assistance to the affected shopkeepers. The Chief Ministers directions come in the wake of the extensive damage caused by the fire, which has resulted in substantial losses to the business community. The administration has been asked to provide necessary support to the affected traders to help them deal with the losses suffered in the incident.
All 125 Missing Persons Traced in Anantnag in 2026, Says Police
SRINAGAR: Police in south Kashmirs Anantnag district have traced all 125 people reported missing across various police stations during 2026, providing relief to their families. Of the 125 people traced, 90 were adults and 35 were minors, according to the police. The police attributed the outcome to prompt action, sustained follow-up and the efforts of []
New Delhi [India], October 26 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor received Iranian parliamentary representatives during courtesy calls on the sidelines of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi. In a post on X, the Iranian Embassy in India said that the interactions underscored the importance of bilateral relations between Iran and India. On the sidelines of the 12th Parliamentary Forum 2026, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, and senior parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor received Iranian parliamentary representatives in courtesy calls, underscoring the importance of bilateral relations between Iran and India, the embassy said. The meetings took place as India hosts parliamentary delegations from BRICS member and partner countries for the two-day forum at the Parliament House complex in the national capital. Earlier on Monday, Prime Minister Modi attended the inauguration of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum and welcomed foreign delegations participating in the event. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also highlighted the significance of parliamentary diplomacy, stating that the forum offers lawmakers an opportunity to engage with their international counterparts through dialogue that is more informal than official government-to-government interactions. Speaking to the media, Tharoor recalled the parliamentary delegations sent abroad following Operation Sindoor last year and said the visits demonstrated the importance of direct engagement between parliamentarians. Governments do all the official stuff. But when we went out last year with the parliamentary delegations after Operation Sindoor, everyone was telling us in the countries we went to how useful it was for them to be able to talk to MPs, Tharoor said. He added that parliamentary exchanges play an important role beyond formal diplomatic engagements. Not everything is about geopolitics or government-to-government relations. There is also a very important role that is played by parliamentarians, he said. Parliamentary delegations representing 11 BRICS member countries and 10 partner nations arrived in New Delhi to participate in the two-day forum, hosted by the Parliament of India. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who chairs the forum, delivered the inaugural address on Monday. (ANI)
Cyclone Arnab Prompts Fishing Ban as Heavy Rain Alert Issued in Bengal
The Indian Meteorological Department has banned fishing in Bengal due to Cyclone Arnab, predicting heavy rain from Wednesday. Cyclone Arnab Prompts Fishing Ban as Heavy Rain Alert Issued in Bengal
IICC Invites Applications for Merit-cum-Means Scholarships for 2026
SRINAGAR: The India Islamic Cultural Centre (IICC), New Delhi, has invited online applications from eligible Indian students for its Merit-cum-Means (MCM) Scholarship Scheme for the 202627 academic year, with the last date for submission set for November 25, 2026. This is the first time that IICC is offering scholarships to deserving students across the country. []
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], October 26: The rapid digitisation of data and evolution of technology are creating a growing need for data scientists to analyse complex data to better inform individual choices, clinical practice, industry priorities, public health initiatives, and policy decisions. To address this critical need, Ahmedabad University's Bagchi School of Public Health has introduced a Master of Science in Health Data Science. The inaugural cohort will commence on July 1, 2027.
Saudi defence minister leads Mecca Agreement delegation to Iran
Saudi Arabias Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman is leading a delegation to Tehran on Monday, October 26, alongside officials from other countries party to the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, for talks with Iranian officials amid efforts to ease regional tensions. In a post on X, Saudi Ambassador Dr Rayed Krimly said the delegation would 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 .
DMK Womens Wing to stage Statewide protest over law and order on October 31, says Stalin
Opinion: Opinion | BJP Rules Out Trinamoolisation' Ahead Of Civic Polls, But Can It Afford To?
21 news publishers challenge Indias privacy law, citing risk to journalists sources
The challenge raises questions about how personal data protection requirements could affect investigative reporting, confidential sources and the public interest.
Hyderabad Police Nab 4 Nepalese in Ex-IPS Officers Wife Murder Case
The gang was responsible for the sensational 'murder-for-gain' of a retired IPS officer's wife at Jubilee Hills
Udta Teer box office: Ayushmann-Sara film crosses 19 crore in three days
Written and directed by debutant Aakash Kaushik, the film starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan, Udta Teer recorded a total India net collection of Rs 19.45 crore on its opening weekend
Supreme Court allows SCBA meeting on election reforms
The Supreme Court has approved the Supreme Court Bar Association's meeting scheduled for November 2 on election reforms. Concerns were raised regarding the meeting's organization and process, prompting discussions in the courtroom. Senior advocate Jaideep Gupta expressed his doubts about the meeting while SCBA president Pradeep Rai defended its necessity. The court emphasized that the voting should be conducted by secret ballot and results remain undisclosed initially.
8,447 crore in medicine overcharging claims remain outstanding | Data Point
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) had demanded 10,029.8 crore from pharmaceutical companies for overcharging on medicines, including interest, as of March 31, 2026. Of this, only 1,582.4 crore had been recovered, leaving 8,447.4 crore outstanding. In this video, we examine the NPPAs recovery record, the financial years that saw the highest number of overcharging cases, and the status of outstanding claims. It also looks at how medicines account for nearly 20% of hospitalisation expenditure in rural areas and 15% in urban areas, with the actual share potentially higher when medicine costs are included in hospital packages. The analysis comes as the Supreme Court considers extending trade-margin restrictions beyond non-scheduled anti-cancer medicines.
Chinas proposed export curbs threaten Indias solar cell manufacturing plans
Industry experts are urging domestic technology development and international partnerships as India assesses potential disruptions to solar manufacturing and investment
Infrastructure reshaping NCRs residential demand, several corridors gain momentum
For years, Gurugram and Noida have shaped Delhi-NCRs residential market, attracting homebuyers with established employment hubs, luxury housing and well-developed infrastructure. Today, the search for desirable homes is gradually extending to Ghaziabad, Greater Noida and emerging Gurugram corridors. This changing preference is being supported by improved connectivity and planned urban development. As the market evolves, homebuyers are looking beyond location alone, placing greater emphasis on architectural design, spacious layouts, lifestyle amenities and access to essential services, while seeking homes that offer convenience and support their professional commitments and personal aspirations.
Former DMK Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi arrested
Hours after his anticipatory bail plea was dismissed, Chennai Police took the former School Education Minister into custody
Two student deaths in Kota spark negligence claims
The deaths of two students in Kota, India's coaching hub, have renewed concerns over student safety and health, with one family alleging severe negligence by hostel authorities.
Amber alert: An Amber Alert was issued in California for 6-year-old Joseph Garcia, who was reportedly abducted from Westminster on October 25, 2026. Authorities identified 47-year-old Frank Ramirez as the suspect and described a blue 1995 GMC Sonoma pickup truck with California license plate 5B30127 as the vehicle involved in the case.
No understanding of nationalism: West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari slams TMC
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari accused the previous government of adopting the Joy Bangla slogan of Bangladesh; takes a dig at CJP
Blow For Brisbane Heat As Jonassen Ruled Out Of WBBL 12
Big Bash League: In a major blow for Brisbane Heat, their former captain Jess Jonassen has been ruled out of the Women's Big Bash League 12 due to a hip complaint, the franchise confirmed on Monday. This would be the second straight disrupted season for Jonassen after the Aussie spinner missed four matches in the previous edition of the tournament due to a shoulder injury. Jonassen eyes a return to the field by New Year and was itterly disappointed to be missing out on the upcoming season, which gets underway on Thursday. Last year I was managing a shoulder injury and tried to play through until it got too much for me and was having an effect on both my own and the teams performances, as well as my mental health, Jonassen said in a club statement. We considered whether playing through injury was available again, but the advice was to have this period of recovery now, so I can be available for the rest of the season. The plan is to be back training in December and be ready to play again in our next WNCL fixture, Jonassen added. Meanwhile, Heat coach Mark Sorell conceded that the legendary spinner's absence would be a blow, but the franchise would lean on her for planning. Were obviously pretty devastated for JJ, Sorell said. She has a good attitude to these sorts of things, and naturally well wrap our arms around her this week as we get ready to play. Well lean into her experience around the group while she recovers and it will be a good chance for us to work with her around our match day planning, he added. Heat are currently in negotiations for finding a replacement for her with an international player. The announcement is expected to be made before Heat's tournament opener against Sydney Sixers on Friday, the club confirmed. Well lean into her experience around the group while she recovers and it will be a good chance for us to work with her around our match day planning, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ujjain Municipal Corporation building officer Rajkumar Rathore may face departmental action after his wife's Instagram reel showed the couple trying crocodile meat during a Thailand trip. His leave application reportedly did not mention foreign travel, prompting the civic body to examine whether he obtained mandatory permission.
Ballon d'Or 2026: Date, event time (IST), venue and live streaming details
The live streaming of the Ballon d'Or 2026 ceremony will be available on the DAZN app and website in India
Reva Diamonds posts 52% revenue jump in H1FY27, opens first Jaipur store
Profit after tax for H1FY27 stood at 505 million, up 151% from 201 million in the corresponding period last year, with a PAT margin of 21%
Chinas proposed solar technology export curbs may delay Indias domestic manufacturing push: Report
China's plan to impose export controls on photovoltaic technologies could create challenges for India's solar manufacturing sector and affect supply chains. These restrictions may lead to delays and increased costs for domestic players aiming for backward integration in manufacturing. The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers Phase II policy timelines could also be disrupted as a result.
Instagram App Now Available on Apple TV, Lets Users Watch Reels on TV
Users can now watch Reels, long-form creator videos, and live shows on a bigger screen
Can a husband avoid paying maintenance by claiming he has no income?
Allahabad High Court has ruled that a husband capable of earning cannot escape his obligation to maintain his wife by citing unemployment or poor business performance
UP CEO probes bizarre voter list names, says action will be taken over forged slips
Uttar Pradesh's Chief Electoral Officer has acknowledged unusual names appearing in the state's voter list. Issues arose during the recent MLC elections, prompting scrutiny over the reasons behind these bizarre entries. Allegations of caste discrimination emerged, particularly from Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh. In response, the CEO clarified that the names do not reflect any caste bias.
Sanitation workers drop agitation plan
Godrej study finds wellness, not square footage, shaping luxury home preferences in Pune
The findings highlight changing expectations among affluent buyers, with wellness, nature, sustainability and shared lifestyle amenities gaining prominence in residential choices.
'Sacred Moment Manipulated?' Bishops Regret Trump Meeting
A White House prayer meeting has erupted into a political controversy after Milwaukee Archbishop Jeffrey Grob accused the Trump administration of manipulating a sacred moment. Grob said he and 11 other Catholic bishops expected a private discussion on church issues, including immigration and religious worker visas, before praying with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office on October 22. He claimed photos and video were released without the bishops consent and apologised for the hurt caused, saying he felt a heavy sadness over the episode. Watch the video to know more...
