Pak Navy Vessel Collides With Indian Navy Ship: MEA Summons Pakistan Charge d
New Delhi, Sept 16: India on Wednesday summoned Pakistans Charge dAffaires and lodged a strong protest over a collision between a Pakistani naval vessel and an Indian Navy unit in international waters in the Arabian Sea, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. The MEA described the conduct of the Pakistani naval unit as unacceptable [] The post Pak Navy Vessel Collides With Indian Navy Ship: MEA Summons Pakistan Charge dAffaires appeared first on Northlines .
Ahead Of Assembly Session, Sajad Lone Slams Govt Over Reservation Policy
Srinagar, Sept 16: Ahead of the upcoming session of the Legislative Assembly, Peoples Conference president Sajad Gani Lone on Wednesday lashed out at the government over the latest JKAS and J&K Accounts (Gazetted) appointments, terming the process as recruitment apartheid against the Kashmir Valley. In a post on X, Lone said that out of [] The post Ahead Of Assembly Session, Sajad Lone Slams Govt Over Reservation Policy appeared first on Northlines .
Boeing 737 Cabin Ceiling Collapses Mid-Air in Iran: Passengers Panic as Plane Lands Safely
Tehran, Sept 16: Passengers aboard a Sepehran Airlines Boeing 737 in Iran were left terrified after sections of the aircrafts cabin ceiling and overhead compartments came loose during an emergency return to the airport, according to reports. The aircraft was operating a flight from Mashhad to Kermanshah on September 15 when it developed a problem [] The post Boeing 737 Cabin Ceiling Collapses Mid-Air in Iran: Passengers Panic as Plane Lands Safely appeared first on Northlines .
UPI Framework Explained: P2P Payments, MDR Rules and Transaction Limits
New Delhi, Sept 16: The new UPI framework keeps person-to-person (P2P) transactions completely free, while specified merchant payments above Rs 2,000 may attract a nominal merchant discount rate (MDR), the Finance Ministry said. Individuals will continue to make P2P UPI payments free of charge, irrespective of the amount transferred and without any monthly usage cap. [] The post UPI Framework Explained: P2P Payments, MDR Rules and Transaction Limits appeared first on Northlines .
India has potential to power the next wave of global growth: IMF
New Delhi: International Monetary Fund (IMF) says India has the potential to power the next wave of global growth, supported by its strong economic foundations, private-sector dynamism and expanding technological capabilities. IMF Deputy Managing Director Nigel Clarke described India as the worlds fastest-growing major economy and a central contributor to international economic expansion. [] The post India has potential to power the next wave of global growth: IMF appeared first on Northlines .
Gold Futures Rise To Rs 1.51 Lakh/10 Gm On Firm Spot Demand
New Delhi, Sep 16: Gold prices rose by Rs 803 to Rs 1.51 lakh per 10 grams in futures trade on Wednesday, supported by firm spot demand and fresh positions created by speculators. On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), the gold contract for October delivery gained Rs 803, or 0.53 per cent, to trade at [] The post Gold Futures Rise To Rs 1.51 Lakh/10 Gm On Firm Spot Demand appeared first on Northlines .
Body of Budgam Man Found Near Ring Road
SRINAGAR: The body of a man was found near the Ring Road in the Dharmunah area of central Kashmirs Budgam district on Wednesday, according to reports. The deceased has been identified as Arif Ahmad Bhat, son of late Farooq Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Budgam. Police reached the location after receiving information about the incident []
Noor-Un-Ala Noor: The Timeless Wisdom Of Light Upon Light
The world does not become brighter only through great achievements. It is illuminated by countless small lamps lit by ordinary people with extraordinary hearts. Every good word, every helping hand, every honest action, and every compassionate gesture adds one more ray to the light of humanity. A small, good deed may appear insignificant in isolation, []
Over the years, NHM has become an important component of healthcare delivery in Jammu and Kashmir. Behind the acronym are thousands of men and women working at different levels of the health systemnurses, paramedical staff, community health workers, programme managers, and other personnel. They have contributed to the functioning of healthcare institutions and public health []
Baramulla Police Conduct Terror Response Mock Drill at Veerwan Pandit Colony
Baramulla, Sept 16: Baramulla Police on Wednesday conducted a terror incident response mock drill at Veerwan Pandit Colony to assess and strengthen the preparedness and coordination of security and emergency response agencies. The exercise was held under the overall supervision of SP Operations Baramulla and involved SOG Baramulla, SOG Sheeri, Police Stations Baramulla and Sheeri, 53 Bn CRPF with its K9 team, 46 RR, OCAPS Baramulla, BSF 185 Bn, BDS, AST, Dog Squad, medical teams, Fire & Emergency Services, GMC Baramulla and SDRF. The simulated exercise focused on rapid mobilisation, area domination, cordon-and-search operations, communication, evacuation, rescue and medical response, besides testing inter-agency coordination during a simulated terror incident. Police said the drill was conducted successfully and provided participating units an opportunity to assess their operational preparedness, identify gaps and further strengthen their coordinated response mechanisms to deal with emerging security challenges.
The Real Purpose Of Education: Educated Professionals Or Educated Human Beings?
The real purpose of education is not merely to create educated professionals but to create educated human beings. Degrees should be accompanied by wisdom, skills by ethics, knowledge by compassion, and success by responsibility. If education teaches people only how to earn money, compete with others, and protect their own interests, society may continue to []
Jammu Kashmir Bank Warns Customers Against Fake eKYC Apps, Links
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Bank has warned customers against fraudulent eKYC applications and links being circulated through WhatsApp, SMS and social media to obtain sensitive banking and identity information. In an advisory titled Beware of eKYC Scams!, the bank said scammers were asking customers to download fake eKYC applications or click links purportedly meant for []
Jammu Kashmir Transport Dept Gives Automobile Dealers 10 Days to Obtain Trade Certificates
SRINAGAR: Dealers handling new vehicles without a valid Trade Certificate will face enforcement action, including penalties and prosecution, under motor vehicle laws. The Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department has directed all automobile dealers dealing in first-hand and new motor vehicles to obtain a valid Trade Certificate within 10 days, warning that those continuing to operate []
Jammu Kashmir Govt Deploys 14 JKAS Officers for Assembly Proceedings
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir General Administration Department has deployed 14 government officers, including JKAS and Junior JKAS officers, to record issues and points raised during the sixth session of the J&K Legislative Assembly, scheduled from September 21 to 30. The deployment has been made through Government Order No. 1513-JK(GAD) of 2026, with two officers []
J&K clears Bilquis Mir for Asian Games after SC deadline
Srinagar, Sep 15: The Jammu and Kashmir government has finally granted international canoeing coach and umpire Bilquis Mir permission to travel to Japan for the Asian Games, 2026, following the Supreme Courts intervention in the matter. The Youth Services and Sports Department issued the order on September 15, the deadline set by the Supreme Court. The permission allows Mir, a Physical Education Teacher, to join the Indian national kayaking and canoeing team and perform her assignment as coach or chief coach during the Games in Aichi-Nagoya. As per the government order, Mir has been relieved from her regular duties for the duration of the assignment. She will have to report back to her parent department immediately after completing her responsibilities at the Asian Games. The period of her absence will not be treated as unauthorised absence. The development comes after the Supreme Court strongly criticised the delay in granting permission to Mir. The top court had earlier set September 15 as the deadline for the J&K administration to issue the required orders. Mir had been denied permission for foreign sporting assignments in June, with the administration citing a departmental inquiry, questions related to her appointment qualifications, previous foreign visits and lack of vigilance clearance. The decision led to another round of legal proceedings. Mir and the concerned sports federation approached the Supreme Court after the J&K High Courts Division Bench upheld the administrations decision. On September 10, the Supreme Court set aside the High Court order and also quashed the June 19 administrative decision that had stopped Mir from travelling. The court stressed that sporting assignments operate within strict timelines, with selections, training camps, qualification events and international competitions fixed well in advance. The case has also been linked to a legal battle that began in 2023. The J&K Anti-Corruption Bureau had registered a case against Mir that year, which was later quashed by the High Court in July 2025. The High Court had criticised the authorities and observed that the action against her appeared to be a witch-hunt. The J&K government challenged that decision before the Supreme Court, but its plea was dismissed. Mir had earlier missed two international sporting events after being denied permission to travel. The latest order now clears the way for her to represent India in an official capacity at the Asian Games.
Free movement of Deer in Chennai impresses Kashmiri media delegation
Chennai, Sept 15: The sight of deer and other wildlife moving freely in and around Chennai has left a visiting media delegation from Jammu and Kashmir pleasantly surprised, with senior journalists describing it as a striking example of peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife. The 13-member media delegation, visiting Chennai under a press tour organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar, observed deer and barasingha moving freely in their surroundings during their visit to various locations The sight prompted discussions among the journalists about wildlife conservation, protection of natural habitats and the need to develop greater public sensitivity towards animals. The journalists said that the unhindered movement of wildlife in areas frequented by people reflects a degree of tolerance and awareness that can play an important role in conservation. CNS Media Group Chief Editor Rashid Rahi said the experience was both fascinating and thought-provoking.
Tablet distribution program held at SDM office Uri
Uri, Sep 15: A tablet distribution programme aimed at promoting digital learning and empowering students was organised at the office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Uri on Tuesday. The programme was held in the presence of Prince Kumar, IAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Uri, and Sheikh Imtiyaz, Director, Comtech, along with his team. Under the initiative, tablets provided by Comtech were distributed among students of the remote vibrant village of the Uri Sub-Division to support digital education and improve access to modern learning resources. The initiative focuses on bridging the digital divide and providing students with better opportunities to continue their education through technology.
KMCH Sempora holds free medical camp at SSM College of Engineering
Srinagar, Sep 15: Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, on Tuesday organised a free multi-speciality medical camp at SSM College of Engineering, Parihaspora, Pattan, which was attended by students and residents of adjoining areas. The camp was attended by students, patients and residents from Parihaspora, Pattan, Singpora, Narbal and adjoining villages, who availed free consultations and medical services from teams of senior doctors. Patients were also provided free medicines. The camp was organised as part of KMCHs community outreach programme and by the overall supervision and guidance of Insha Qazi, Executive Director, KMCH Sempora. OPD services were offered across multiple specialties, including Psychiatry, ENT, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, General Surgery, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, General Medicine and Orthopaedics. The camp also placed special emphasis on mental health awareness among students and the importance of timely professional support for those experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns. Student mental health remains an important area of concern, and such outreach programmes provide an opportunity to identify mental health issues at an early stage and encourage students to seek professional help without hesitation, said Insha Qazi, Executive Director, KMCH Sempora. Healthcare should not remain confined to hospital premises. Through such initiatives, we aim to take specialised medical services closer to communities and ensure that people have access to quality healthcare and timely medical advice, she added. Qazi said that community outreach was an important part of KMCHs efforts to promote preventive healthcare and create greater awareness about health-related issues. We endeavor to build stronger connections with communities through regular health camps, awareness programmes and accessible medical services. We will continue to expand these initiatives to reach people in different areas of Kashmir, she said. The super specialists interacted with students and local residents and sensitised them about common mental health conditions, stress management, depression, anxiety disorders and the importance of seeking professional help when required. Residents and civil society members appreciated the initiative and urged the institution to continue organising such camps in different localities for the benefit of the public. KMCH reiterated its commitment to promoting mental well-being and ensuring that quality healthcare services reach people at their doorsteps.
JKEDI Srinagar, Amar Singh College organize Startup Idea Challenge 2.0
Srinagar, Sep 15: The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI), District Srinagar, in collaboration with Amar Singh College, Srinagar, organized Startup Idea Challenge 2.0 under the J&K Startup Policy 2024-27. The programme witnessed participation of students and young entrepreneurs from Amar Singh College Srinagar, SKUAST-K, IUST, Central University of Kashmir and Kashmir University, Zakura Campus, who presented innovative business ideas before the expert panel. Prof. (Dr.) Tehmina Yousuf, Principal, Amar Singh College, Srinagar, was the Chief Guest on the occasion. In her address, she appreciated the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the participants and encouraged them to pursue innovation-driven ventures. Dr Naila Khanday, Faculty JKEDI and Shabir Hussain Shah, District Officer JKEDI Srinagar, emphasized the role of innovation and creativity in nurturing startups at grassroot levels. The expert panel was chaired by Dr Naila Khanday, Faculty JKEDI, Shabir Hussain Shah, District Officer, JKEDI Srinagar, Prof. Mohammad Altaf, HOD Commerce, Amar Singh College; Prof. Shahzad Ahmad Bhat, Assistant Professor, Commerce; Tabish Shah, Senior Executive Manager, J&K Bank; Nazia Shafi, Communication Associate, JKEDI; along with team members from JKEDI District Centre Srinagar. Shabir Hussain Shah briefed the participants about the key features of J&K Startup Policy 2024-27 and various support measures offered by JKEDI including mentorship, incubation, seed funding assistance and co-working facilities. The initiative aims to provide a platform to budding innovators to transform their ideas into viable entrepreneurial ventures.
DC Gbal reviews progress of Srinagar Ring Road Phase-II & IIA
Ganderbal, Sep 15: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore on Tuesday chaired a meeting to review various issues pertaining to the ongoing Srinagar Ring Road Phase-II and Phase-IIA projects in the district, with focus on removal of bottlenecks, traffic management and timely execution of the projects. During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the issues concerning shifting of various structures falling within the Ring Road alignment. The meeting also reviewed the traffic management plan proposed by NHAI during project construction. The Deputy Commissioner directed NHAI authorities to adopt a coordinated approach to minimize traffic congestion and ensure smooth movement, particularly during emergencies. The Traffic Police, Police, Revenue authorities and NHAI were directed to undertake a joint ground assessment and formulate a comprehensive and foolproof traffic management plan. He directed all concerned agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure strict adherence to the timelines fixed during the meeting. He stressed that all identified issues must be resolved so that ongoing development works are not hampered and public inconvenience is minimized. The DC emphasised that public safety, smooth traffic movement and uninterrupted progress of the Ring Road projects must remain the priority and called upon all concerned departments and executing agencies to ensure prompt action on the decisions taken during the meeting. The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Traffic Police, Superintending Engineer R&B Department Circle Ganderbal, Project Director NHAI, Executive Engineer PW (R&B) Ganderbal, Executive Engineer KPDCL Ganderbal, Executive Engineer Projects Ganderbal, Executive Engineer Irrigation & Flood Control Ganderbal, Executive Engineer PHE Ganderbal, Executive Engineer TLMD Bemina (Ganderbal), Executive Engineer PDC (NGHEP) Ganderbal, Tehsildar Ganderbal, Sub Divisional Engineer BSNL Ganderbal, besides other concerned officers.
Kashmir media delegation visits IIT Madras
Chennai, Sep 15: The media delegation from Srinagar on a five-day exposure tour to Chennai visited the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) on Tuesday. The delegation had detailed deliberations with Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras and senior faculty members during the visit. The visiting journalists were briefed about a wide spectrum of initiatives and programs underway in IITM and various Centres of Excellence (CoE) for technological development in sectors like agriculture, health, education, artificial intelligence, quantum mechanics, aerospace engineering. The director informed the delegation how the premier research facility has opened its doors to the talent from all over the country. The delegation visited various laboratories and centres like Lab-Grown Diamond Facility, Ship Simulator, Brain Centre, National Centre for Additive and Hybrid Technologies (NCAHT). A guided tour to the state of art Incubation Cell (IC) & Research Park (RP) was also part of the visit. The delegation was informed about the startup ecosystem of the institute with start-ups like Ather Energy, Agnikul Cosmos and the ePlane Company being top names in the start-up landscape of the country. Earlier in the day a detailed presentation was given on different off campus courses offered by the IITM to provide opportunities to students and working professionals for pursuing an array of courses on offer. The delegation is scheduled to call on the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry on Wednesday as part of the engagements on the third day of the tour.
J&K Non-Teaching Employees Association welcomes new Dir Colleges
Srinagar, Sep 15: The Jammu and Kashmir Non-Teaching Employees Association has welcomed the appointment of Prof. (Dr) Twinkle Suri as the newly appointed Director Colleges, Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as a positive step towards further strengthening the administration and functioning of colleges across the Union Territory. The Association also welcomed the appointment under the leadership and guidance of Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, Higher Education Minister Sakeena Itoo, and Commissioner/Secretary, Higher Education, Ram Niwas Sharma. Its delegation visited the Directorate of Colleges and conveyed its greetings and best wishes to Dr. Twinkle Suri. The delegation was led by Association President Javed Ahmad Akhoon and accompanied by General Secretary Abdul Hameed Rather, Publicity Secretary Kamlesh Parimoo, District President Srinagar Khurshid Ahmad Maliyar, and other senior members of the Association. The delegation congratulated Prof. (Dr) Twinkle Suri on assuming the important responsibility and expressed hope that her experience, leadership and administrative acumen would bring greater efficiency, transparency and responsiveness to the Directorate of Colleges. The Association stated that non-teaching employees constitute an important component of the higher education system and play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and effective day-to-day functioning of colleges. It expressed confidence that, under the new leadership, the long-pending issues of non-teaching employees would receive due attention. The members of the delegation wished Prof. (Dr) Twinkle Suri a successful and productive tenure and expressed confidence that her leadership would contribute significantly towards strengthening the higher education sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
IIT Madras sets 5% target for J&K students in next BS admission cycle
Chennai, Sep 15: For students in Jammu and Kashmir, the next IIT Madras admission cycle could come with a specific target: at least 5 per cent of students in its BS programme from the Union Territory. Speaking to Jammu and Kashmir media delegation in Chennai as part of a PIB press tour, IIT Madras Director Kamakoti Veezhinathan said the institute would work with the media to take information about its online programmes to students in Jammu and Kashmir, including those in villages. My request from you is that you, in Jammu and Kashmir, talk about this BS programme. We will keep a target that in the next admission, at least 5 per cent students must come from Jammu and Kashmir. We will work with you, he said. The emphasis on villages was part of a larger point Veezhinathan made about the role of technology in widening access to education. Referring to IIT Madras outreach programmes, he said the institutes experience had shown that academic ability was not confined to cities. Our intelligence is everywhere. Intelligence is not just in cities, he said. Veezhinathan said the institutes experience in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka had shown the importance of local media in taking information about its BS programme to students. He urged journalists from Jammu and Kashmir to similarly take the programme to villages. The BS programme is one part of IIT Madras larger attempt to take education outside its physical campus. The institute has also developed programmes for school students and an initiative called Vidya Shakti, under which teaching support is provided to students in government and other schools through technology. Veezhinathan said Vidya Shakti is currently being implemented across 10 states, including Ladakh, with lessons delivered through internet-connected systems and teachers and faculty members helping students in their mother tongue. The larger challenge, he said, was to take such interventions to places where students may have the ability but lack access to teachers or specialised courses. The institute has also expanded its online degree offerings following changes brought about by the National Education Policy, Veezhinathan said. The BS programme allows students to pursue a degree without being physically present on the IIT Madras campus.
Saudi crown prince goes to Egypt for support amid Houthi strikes, other Mideast developments
CAIRO: With his kingdom under attack, Saudi Arabias crown prince on Tuesday reached out to Egypt for support against Yemens Houthi rebels who have disrupted key shipping routes, contributing to a spike in the cost of oil around the world. Egypt is unlikely to offer military help to Saudi Arabia, but the country is influential []
US military says it destroyed 2 small Iranian boats trying to steal a sea drone
WASHINGTON: The US military said Tuesday that it opened fire and destroyed two small Iranian boats this week that were trying to steal a drone ship in the waters off Iran, the latest back-and-forth fire in the stalemated war. Capt. Tim Hawkins, US Central Command spokesman, said the Iranian boats recently attempted to take possession []
KU begins 3-day national conference on environment, climate, sustainability
The University of Kashmir (KU) began a three-day national conference on Environment, Climate and Sustainability: Science, Policy and Pathways at the Main Campus. Jointly organised by the Department of Environmental Science and Department of Geoinformatics, KU, the conference aims to bring together researchers, academics, policymakers and practitioners to discuss emerging environmental and climate challenges and examine scientific, policy and practical pathways towards sustainability. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU Prof. Nilofer Khan said, Addressing climate and environmental challenges requires sustained scientific research, informed policy and collective action, and universities have an important role in bringing these perspectives together. She emphasised the need for stronger academic engagement with issues of climate change, environmental protection and sustainable development. Dean Research KU, Prof. Bashir Ahmad Ganai said that addressing complex environmental challenges requires research that is both scientifically robust and relevant to society and policy. Dean, School of Earth & Environmental Sciences KU, Prof. Pervez Ahmed, highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in understanding environmental change and developing appropriate responses. Head, Department of Geoinformatics KU and Convener of the conference, Dr. Irfan Rashid, provided an overview of the programme and its academic focus. Earlier, Head, Department of Environmental Science KU and Convener, Dr. Sami Ullah Bhat, in his welcome address, provided the objectives of the conference and welcomed the participating researchers and experts. An abstract book was also released on the occasion. The three-day conference features technical sessions, poster presentations, expert lectures and panel discussions covering various aspects of climate change, environmental science, geospatial technologies, sustainability, policy interventions and climate-resilient pathways. The conference is being attended by participants from across the country, providing a platform for sharing research findings and discussing approaches to contemporary environmental challenges. The event proceedings were conducted by Dr. Mohammad Muslim, Organising Secretary and faculty member, Department of Environmental Science, KU, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Khalid Omer Murtaza, Co-convener and faculty member, Department of Geoinformatics, KU. The conference is sponsored by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, ICSSR and CSIR.
Chennai, Sep 15: There is a road inside IIT Madras where the traffic is not always the most interesting thing moving across it. A herd of spotted deer can appear from the trees, cross the road and disappear into the campus again. A few minutes later, there may be another group. Students pass them on their way to class. Cars slow down. The deer keep moving. For a visitor from Kashmir, the sight takes a moment to settle. Kashmir has its own deer, the Hangul. But there, the animal is no longer an everyday sight across the Valley. Its numbers are counted, its habitat is watched and the routes it still uses have become part of a conservation effort. The latest count, in 2025, put the Hangul population at 323. That is up from 127 in 2008. It is also a long way from the thousands of Hangul that once inhabited Kashmir. The difference begins with the animals themselves. The deer at IIT Madras are chital, or spotted deer. The Hangul is a subspecies of red deer found in Jammu and Kashmir and classified as critically endangered. But for a Kashmiri looking at the animals in Chennai, the more striking difference is not the species. It is the landscape. At IIT Madras, the deer have continued to live in a place that has been built around them or, at least, around a forest landscape that was here before the institute. The campus covers about 617 acres and retains large stretches of wooded land. IIT Madras was established on land adjoining Guindy National Park, and the institute lists spotted deer and blackbuck among the wildlife found on its campus. The result is an unusual daily scene for an engineering institute: laboratories and hostels on one side, a deer moving through the trees on the other. The animals are not kept in an enclosure. They use the campus. That has meant adapting the campus to them as well. IIT Madras has removed more than 2,500 metres of chain-link fencing around parts of the campus to allow wildlife to move between areas. It has opened up grassland for grazing and maintains water troughs for deer and blackbuck. Its 2024-25 annual report says there are now water troughs at 90 locations. None of this makes the campus a sanctuary. There have been deer deaths from road accidents and disease, while feral dogs, construction and other human pressures have also posed problems. A 2022 census cited by The Times of India put the spotted deer population at around 150 and blackbuck at about 50. The IIT campus has therefore had to find a way of keeping a working institution and its wildlife in the same space. Kashmir is dealing with a different stage of the same problem. The Hangul has already lost much of the landscape over which it once moved. Historical accounts place its numbers in the thousands. It was found in several parts of the Valley, but its distribution contracted over the decades. Dachigam is now its principal stronghold, with conservation efforts also looking at habitats and movement corridors beyond the protected area. The population trend of the last decade offers some hope: 183 in 2015, 214 in 2017, 237 in 2019, 261 in 2021, 289 in 2023 and 323 in 2025. But the recovery in numbers has not restored the old range. That is why conservation work around the Hangul increasingly goes beyond counting animals. Protecting the places where they feed and breed, and keeping different habitats connected, are central to efforts to rebuild the population. The comparison with IIT Madras is not a claim that the two landscapes are alike. They are not. One is a 617-acre institutional campus inside a major city, with a population of adaptable chital. The other is a fragmented Himalayan landscape where a critically endangered red deer is struggling to recover. What the Chennai campus offers, instead, is a glimpse of something that has become much harder to see in Kashmir: wild deer moving through an inhabited landscape without being an exceptional sight.
Dyeing to save planet: Srinagar entrepreneur turns waste into colour
Srinagar, Sep 15: At a time when the world is increasingly waking up to the dangers of plastic pollution, a young Srinagar-based entrepreneur is drawing attention to another silent threatone that comes wrapped in the clothes we wear every day. From walnut husks that were once burnt as waste to natural dyes that can colour clothes, Aayrish Sheikh, a Chartered Accountant and entrepreneur, is working to give agricultural waste a new purpose while offering the textile industry a more nature-friendly alternative to chemical dyes. Her idea stems from a simple but deeply concerning thought: if we worry about the pollution caused by plastic, why do we rarely think about the pollution caused by our clothes? Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Aayrish said, The pollution caused by the clothes we wear is a problem that deserves much more attention. The fast-fashion industry generates millions of tonnes of textile waste every year, while conventional textile dyeing is heavily dependent on chemicals. She believes the answer lies in connecting two seemingly different environmental problemsagricultural waste and textile pollution. I am trying to solve one problem with another problem.Weare converting agricultural waste into textile dyes, and our dyes also have antimicrobial properties, the entrepreneur said. The initiative has found a special connection with Kashmir, where walnut cultivation generates huge quantities of husks every harvesting season. Much of this waste is traditionally discarded or burnt, adding to environmental pollution. Instead of allowing the husks to become waste, Aayrish is turning them into a resource. The initiative also aims to create an alternative source of income for farmers by paying them for the walnut husks that were earlier simply thrown away or burnt.It is about giving value to something that people considered waste, she said. The journey, however, has not been without challenges. Walnut-based dyes naturally tend to produce shades of brown, ranging from lighter to darker tones. To expand the colour palette, Aayrish has experimented with other natural sources, including turmeric and beetroot, developing shades of yellow and pink alongside the walnut browns. The natural dyes are currently being explored for use in sensitive textile segments, particularly intimate apparel and children's wear, where fabrics remain in prolonged contact with the skin. Aayrish said antimicrobial testing has shown that textiles dyed with their formulations possess antimicrobial properties, while the initiative seeks to provide an alternative to conventional chemically intensive dyeing processes. At its heart, the initiative is more than a business idea. It is an attempt to look at waste differentlyto see value where others see something to be thrown away, and to find a gentler relationship between industry and nature. From the walnut orchards of Kashmir to the clothes worn close to our skin, Aayrish Sheikh hopes to create a chain where nothing is simply waste and nature does not have to pay the price for fashion. In a world where convenience often comes at the cost of the environment, her message is simple: perhaps saving Mother Earth can begin with changing something as ordinary as the colour of the clothes we wear.
Storm before the Assembly Session
Srinagar, Sep 15: Ahead of the Autumn Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, various employees associations across the Union Territory have intensified their efforts to press the government for resolution of their long-pending demands, with several groups announcing protests and strikes. A major demandbeingraised by employees and workers is regularisation of their jobs and enhancement of monthly stipends, particularly for those engaged under different schemes and on contractual or temporary arrangements. The associations have geared up to draw attention to their issues and seek intervention from legislators and the administration. The protests began in Jammu and Kashmir on August 31, 2026, whenthemedical interns from different government medical colleges and hospitals commenced their strike to press fortheir demands foran increase in their monthly stipends. After protesting for nine days, the medical interns called off their strike following a meeting with Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Minister Sakeena (Masood) Itoo, with the government assuring that the long-pending demand for enhancement of their monthly stipend will be resolved within 30 days. The second protest started in Srinagar by the Jammu Kashmir Casual Daily Wagers Forum (JKCDWF), led by its president Sajad Ahmad Parray, who demanded that the government make public the recommendationsmade by the government with regard totheir long-pending demand for regularisation.However, the protest is stillgoing onas the forum has decided to once again hit the streets for the third time in a month on September 22in casetheir demands are not met. In this regard, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder KumarChoudhary hadstatedthat the workers had a legitimate grievance but should not allow outsiders or political interests tousetheir issue. Furthermore, the agitation byemployees of the National Health Mission (NHM)continued across Jammu and Kashmir for the seventh consecutive day on Tuesday, with around 12,000 workers remaining off dutyin support oftheir long-pending demands. The 72-hour strike by NHM employees commenced on September 9, demanding pay parity with NHM workers in other states, a comprehensive policy for job security and regularisation, besides social security benefits including EPF, ESI, insurance coverage and post-retirement support.The protesting employees, however, extended their strike by a further 72 hours twice andhave been pressingfor their demands. With regard tothese employees, Minister Sakeena Itoo termed their demands genuine, butsaidthe government wouldbe left withno option but to act againstthese employees in casetheydont jointheir duties soon. Besides, theVeterinaryinterns ofSher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Kashmir (SKUAST-K) also continued to protest, demandingthat their monthly stipend should be increasedfrom Rs 6,000 to Rs 23,000. During their protest, theprotestersmet Agriculture Minister Javid Dar at the Civil Secretariat. The minister, according to the interns, informed them that the earlier proposal seekingan increase in their stipendhad been sent directly to the Finance Department instead of being routed through the Agriculture Production Department (APD). He said a fresh proposal would therefore have to be submitted through the proper channel. The interns said the minister assured them that action would be taken within 20 days of receiving the fresh proposal. They, however, remained dissatisfied with the response and said they would decide on the continuation of their strike after meeting the universitys Vice-Chancellor. After the persistent protests, the Anganwadi workers have also joined the queue ahead of the Assembly Session, with the President of Anganwadi Workers Association J&K warning of a strike and road blockade by the workers if issues remain unresolved in the upcoming Assembly session. These stirs comeat a time whenthe government prepares totake upvarious legislative and policy matters during the session, providing employee organisations an opportunity to highlight their concerns. Representatives of different associations said they would intensify their agitation if their demands were not addressed, while appealing to the government to initiate dialogue and resolve the issues through a time-bound mechanism. The employees bodies have also urged legislators to take up their concerns during the session.
Jhelum riverfront now coming to downtown
Srinagar, Sep 15: In a move aimed at extending the citys riverfront development into the historicdowntown, theSrinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) is set to upgrade the Jhelum riverfront stretch from Budshah Bridge to Habba Kadal Bridge. The project, titled Upgradation of Jhelum Riverfront downstream Budshah Bridge to HabbaKadal,willhave an estimated cost ofRs 17.8 crore. It will be funded under the Srinagar Metropolitan Region Development Authority (SMRDA) Capex Budget for 2026-27. The development is planned on the lines of the Rajbagh Jhelum Riverfront, which was transformed into a public recreational space with pedestrian and cycling tracks, landscaped green spaces, seating areas, improved walkways and ramps, lighting and illumination, plantation and other public amenities. The Rajbagh stretch also featured Wi-Fi connectivity, selfie points and spaces for cafes and other recreational facilities. The new project is expected to give a major facelift to the bund area between Budshah Bridge and Habba Kadal, while creating improved spaces for pedestrians, recreation and public interaction along the Jhelum. An SSCL official said the objective was to extend the riverfront experience to another important part of the city and create a more attractive and functional public space along the river. The stretch will be developed on the lines of the Rajbagh riverfront, with emphasis on improving pedestrian movement, landscaping, public amenities, lighting and the overall aesthetics of the bund. The idea is to create a vibrant public space while retaining the character and heritage of the area, the official said. The Rajbagh riverfront, developed under the Srinagar Smart City project, was designed as a pedestrian and cycling promenade with parks, public plazas, seating spaces, toilets and high-quality lighting. SSCL also undertook undergrounding of utility cables in parts of the riverfront to create a cleaner, wire-free public space. The earlier riverfront development also included extensive plantation and landscaping, upgraded roads, ramps and walkways, besides provisions for cafes, ice-cream parlours, a library and other recreational facilities. The Budshah Bridge-Habba Kadal stretch is particularly significant as it passes through the historic core of Srinagar and connects areas that form an important part of the citys cultural and architectural heritage. An SSCL official said the proposed intervention would improve the appearance and usability of the bund while providing residents and visitors with better access to the riverfront. The tender for the project has been floated by SSCL to develop the Jhelum riverfront as a major public and recreational asset for Srinagar, he said.
This winter, Hollywood may return to Kashmir
Srinagar, Sep 15: This winter could spring a cinematic surprise for Kashmir, with Hollywood potentially returning first and Bollywood following in its footsteps. Rising Kashmir learned from reliable sources that the recently concluded maiden International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) has done more than bring filmmakers, actors and musicians from across the world to Srinagar. It has reopened a conversation that Kashmir had almost lostthe possibility of once again becoming a preferred destination for international and Indian film productions, an official privy to the possible Hollywood shoot likely to be scheduled this winter, revealed. The discussion has begun, and the line of action is being framed. Pertinently, Spanish filmmaker and producer Anna Saura Ramon, who attended IFFJK, was among those impressed by Kashmirs cinematic possibilities. She described the Valley as highly suitable for filmmaking, praising its mountains, landscapes and natural beauty, while expressing interest in future collaborations and shoots in Kashmir. Her remarks have added to growing expectations that international filmmakers could look towards the Valley, particularly during winter when Kashmir offers a dramatically different visual canvas of snow-covered mountains, frozen landscapes and distinctive light. Kashmir has hosted international cinema before. The official J&K film policy records Bill Murray-starrer 'The Razors Edge' being shot in Kashmir in 1983, followed by the UK film 'The Climb' in 1986. After decades of limited international production activity, the prospect of seeing foreign cameras return carries a significance beyond tourism. Veteran filmmaker Ramesh Sippy, speaking to Rising Kashmir on the sidelines of IFFJK, said the time was right for filmmakers to rediscover the Valley. Shootings will now happen, films will be made. It can be Hollywood first and Bollywood next or vice-versa, but surely film will be there, Sippy said, expressing confidence that Kashmirs changing atmosphere and enduring beauty could bring the industry back. For Bollywood, the return of international filmmakers could become an important signal. If Hollywood and other overseas productions begin considering Kashmir again, Indian filmmakers may be encouraged to follow, bringing back the Valleys association with mainstream cinema. Singer Sunidhi Chauhan also spoke warmly about Kashmirs cinematic appeal during the festival, saying the Valley has always attracted people because of its beauty and that almost every frame captured here looks beautiful. The renewed focus generated by IFFJK, she suggested, could give that relationship a fresh push. Actress Sadia Khateeb said she being herself a Kashmiri, believes that the place is full of talent. Now that one thing is clear, shootings will take place in the Valley; local talent won't go to waste. Hollywood or Bollywood, locals will get a chance to showcase their talent for sure, she said.
Serve people, not postings: CM Omar to new officers
Srinagar, Sep 15: Don't keep postings and promotions in mind. Just think that you have got a chance which very few people get, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Tuesday as he distributed appointment orders to 55 newly selected candidates of the Combined Competitive Examination entering the Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Service and Jammu & Kashmir Accounts (Gazetted) Service at a function held at SKICC here. The 55 newly appointed officers include 28 Junior Scale JKAS officers and 27 Accounts Officers of the J&K Accounts (Gazetted) Service. Ministers Javid Ahmed Dar and Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary, General Administration Department, M. Raju, senior officers of the GAD, newly appointed officers and their parents were present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister congratulated the newly selected officers and their parents and families, acknowledging the effort, perseverance and sacrifices that went into their selection. He told the officers that receiving their appointment orders was not the destination of their journey but a new beginning, and that they had covered only a small part of the larger journey ahead. Now you have to decide how you want people to remember you when you complete this journey. Only you can decide that, the Chief Minister said, urging them to build their careers on the foundations of competence, honesty and hard work. Abdullah said public servants are remembered not merely for the positions they hold but for the difference they make in the lives of people. He advised the officers to uphold integrity and ensure that their conduct in public service earns them respect. The CM reminded the officers that behind every government file, application and complaint isthe story of a person.While every grievance or complaint may not necessarily be justified, he said, there is a reason behind every grievance, and officers must have the sensitivity and willingness to understand people's problems and work towards resolving them. He urged the newly appointed officers to look beyond promotions and postings and recognise the opportunity and responsibility that comes with being part of the civil services. Don't keep postings and promotions in mind. Just think that you have got a chance which very few people get, he said. The Chief Minister also asked the officers to prepare themselves for challenges that Jammu and Kashmir may face in the coming decades, including improving education, making cities cleaner and more liveable, addressing climate change and responding to emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence. He said that the nature of governance and the challenges before society could change significantly over the next 10 to 20 years, and called upon the young officers to remain adaptable, innovative and committed to public service. Omar Abdullah assured the officers that the Government would extend all possible support to help them discharge their responsibilities effectively and overcome difficulties in their professional journey. You will be in the service. You have to take advantage of that stability and assurance and think about how you would like to see Jammu and Kashmir at the end of your service, he said. CM Abdullah said he hoped the officers would live up to the expectations of their parents, families and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He wished the newly appointed officers success in their careers and urged them to always choose the right path, even when it was difficult. Make the right decision and serve the people of Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Minister said.
MMU meet: Grand Mufti proposes Baitul Maal loans
Srinagar, Sep 15: Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam Tuesday floated the idea of providing micro loans through Baitul Maal to help financially vulnerable people become self-reliant, while calling for a collective response to the growing social, economic and environmental challenges facing Kashmir. Addressing a one-day meet of Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), an amalgam of J&Ks Ulema in Srinagar, the Grand Mufti said community institutions and religious scholars had a major responsibility towards people in distress and should come forward to address issues affecting society. He said Baitul Maal could be utilised to provide small loans to needy people, enabling them to start small businesses and generate livelihoods instead of remaining dependent on charity. Such institutions should be headed by Ulema who enjoy public faith and credibility, he said. The heads should be Ulema having public faith, he said, emphasising that those entrusted with religious and social responsibilities must command the confidence of the people. The Grand Mufti expressed serious concern over the growing menace of drug abuse, particularly among young people, and called for urgent and coordinated efforts to tackle the problem. We have more than 15 lakh youth involved in drugs, which is a very sensitive issue, he said, stressing that the magnitude of the problem required families, religious institutions, medical professionals, civil society and the administration to work together. He said girls and young women in the age group of 13 to 30 years were also becoming vulnerable to drugs, making the issue particularly sensitive and requiring greater attention from families and community institutions. The Grand Mufti also referred to complaints concerning Darul Ulooms where girls are studying, calling for such concerns to be examined seriously and responsibly. Institutions involved in the education of girls must ensure that students receive a safe and conducive environment for learning, while maintaining transparency and accountability in their functioning, he said. He also turned his attention to Kashmirs deteriorating environment, expressing concern over food adulteration and the worsening condition of the Valleys lakes and water bodies. Pollution and unchecked waste disposal were threatening the ecological health of Kashmir, with some of its water bodies increasingly turning into cesspools. He also raised concern over the depletion of water resources and urged people to recognise that protecting the environment was a collective responsibility. What is our responsibility? he asked, urging people to introspect and contribute towards protecting water bodies, lakes and other natural resources. He said the responsibility for protecting Kashmirs environment could not rest with government agencies alone and called for greater participation from religious institutions, civil society and the general public. The Grand Mufti further appealed to the medical fraternity to facilitate people who are unable to arrange money for treatment. He said community institutions could play an important role in supporting such families and ensuring that lack of money did not leave vulnerable people without assistance. He called upon religious scholars, professionals and members of civil society to work together to strengthen social institutions and provide practical support to people in need.
Langate MLA warns of health staff crisis
Srinagar, Sep 15:Amid the UT wide protest by NHM employees, MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed has warned that the health sector across J&K could face further challenges over the next five to six months if vacant posts are not filled and immediate attention is not given to the growing shortage of healthcare staff. In the coming five to six months, if attention is not given to this and if these vacancies are not filled, we will face further problems, Khursheed said, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. Khursheed said the shortage is particularly visible in rural areas, where four to five employees retire every month, but replacements are not being appointed. He said vacancies are not being filled through the regular cadre, SSRB recruitment or the NHM system, creating additional pressure on the existing workforce. He stressed that the issue is not limited to one institution or area, but reflects a wider staffing challenge facing the health sector across J&K. According to Khursheed, approximately 40% of posts are already vacant, while the existing sanctioned strength is itself inadequate to meet the present requirements. He said the government needs to look at the issue from every angle and initiate recruitment on an urgent basis to fill vacancies created by retirements and address the shortage of staff. His remarks come amid the ongoing strike by NHM employees in J&K. The employees initially announced a 72-hour strike and later extended it by another 72 hours over their demands. Khursheed said the strike has affected the health sector, although regular medical officers, paramedics and other employees continue to perform their duties and make efforts to keep healthcare services running. Khursheed appealed to the government to hold talks with NHM employees and their union and work towards resolving their demands. He said every issue may not be resolved immediately, but the government should provide assurance, initiate dialogue and set a clear timeline for addressing the concerns of NHM employees. The MLA also said issues concerning NHM employees and the wider health sector would be raised during the Assembly session. He urged the government to simultaneously resolve the NHM issue and begin the recruitment process to strengthen the healthcare workforce across J&K.
Nallah Sindh faces construction pressure
Ganderbal, Sep 15: Dozens of alleged illegal structures have come up along the Nallah Sindh and the Srinagar-Leh Highway at several locations in Ganderbal district, raising concerns among locals over the enforcement of restrictions on construction in environmentally sensitive areas. Residents said structures have surfaced at multiple locations from Baroosa to Sonamarg, particularly in areas including Mammer, Surfraw and adjoining stretches. According to locals, several constructions have been raised close to the Nallah Sindh as well as along the highway, despite restrictions on construction in the area. Locals alleged that in Mammer, construction activity has been taking place close to the Nallah Sindh, with some structures coming up during the day as well as at night. They said similar constructions can be seen at several other locations towards Sonamarg. The residents questioned the alleged lack of effective action by the concerned authorities, particularly in cases where structures that were earlier demolished or removed have reportedly reappeared. How can authorities allow such construction when poor people are not permitted to build even residential houses on their own land if it is close to the Nallah Sindh or the Srinagar-Leh Highway? locals said, urging the administration to ensure that rules are applied uniformly. Residents also referred to the restrictions imposed by the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court on construction in the Nallah Sindh from Wayil to Sonamarg area, saying that despite such directions, construction activity continues to be reported at different locations. Locals appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the Tourism portfolio, and the concerned departments to personally intervene and initiate action against unauthorised structures along the Nallah Sindh and highway. They said unchecked construction could have serious implications for the fragile environment and water channel, besides affecting the landscape and tourism potential of the region. Residents have sought a comprehensive survey of structures along the Nallah Sindh and the Srinagar-Leh Highway, followed by action against constructions found to be in violation of applicable laws and court directions.
Manigam residents oppose old road closure
Ganderbal, Sep 15: Residents of Manigam in Ganderbal district have urged the administration and highway authorities to reconsider the proposed closure of an old road, warning that the move could disrupt access to schools, government offices, a cremation ground and other essential facilities used by the local population. Former Sarpanch Mohd Muzaffar Rather said the National Highway authorities had not provided any alternative diversion, which, he said, would force residents to take a longer route for accessing schools and other essential services. Our children study here and many of them come from Wayil to attend the Higher Secondary School. If this road is closed, they will have to travel an additional distance, causing inconvenience to students, Rather said. He appealed to the district administration and highway authorities to keep the existing road open, stating that the route has been in use by residents for a long time and serves as an important link for the area. Residents also said the road provides access to several government offices and essential institutions, including health and education facilities, banks, the Power Development Department and agriculture-related offices. They apprehended that closure of the road would make daily commuting more difficult for employees and the general public. Rather further said that the route is also used to access the local cremation ground and other places, adding that its closure would create additional difficulties for people visiting these facilities. He urged the administration to intervene and find a solution that addresses traffic management requirements without cutting off the traditional access route used by the local population. An official said the residents concern was genuine and that the matter would be discussed with highway authorities. He said that official's were expected to visit the area and efforts would be made to resolve the issue at the earliest. The official acknowledged that closure of the existing route could cause inconvenience to residents, particularly those using nearby shortcuts and agricultural fields, and said the administration would take up the matter with the concerned highway authorities. Residents meanwhile said they hoped the issue would be resolved without disrupting their daily movement and access to essential services.
Zanskar has untapped tourism potential: LG
Zanskar, Sep 15: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena on Tuesday hailed the enthusiastic participation of people in the Zanskar Festival, saying the event has emerged as an important platform to promote the regions rich culture, local products and tourism potential. Speaking to reporters after attending the festival in Zanskar, Saxena said thousands of tourists and visitors had participated in the event, while local products were also being showcased, bought and sold. He said such festivals were playing an important role in driving tourism across Ladakh. The LG noted that the Zanskar Festival had, for the first time, been included in the official tourism calendar of Ladakh this year after Zanskar became a district. He said efforts would be made to expand the festival further in the coming years and establish it as a major event attracting visitors from across the country and abroad. Zanskar is a very beautiful valley, Saxena said, highlighting its mountains, valleys and lakes. He said the region had immense tourism potential but had not yet received the exposure it deserved. He said the administration would work towards promoting Zanskar as a major tourist destination where visitors from across the country and the world would want to come and experience its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Saxena also congratulated the people of Zanskar for their participation in the festival and appreciated the artists who performed during the event, expressing hope that the festival would eventually gain recognition at the national and international level. Speaking on development in Ladakh, the LG said infrastructure had witnessed significant expansion in recent years. He said the road network in Ladakh, which stood at around 1,700 kilometres in 2019, had increased to approximately 4,400 kilometres. He also said tourist footfall in Ladakh had been witnessing a steady rise, claiming that tourist arrivals had increased by around 56 per cent in the previous month. According to him, the rise in tourism was also prompting further strengthening of infrastructure and facilities across the Union Territory. Without directly naming anyone, Saxena said some people were attempting to pursue political objectives without adequately understanding Ladakhs development needs. He maintained that political issues and development should be viewed separately and that no one should come in the way of the regions development. The people of Ladakh are very innocent and very good. If anyone tries to mislead them, it is their mistake, he said, adding that while political matters had their own place, development should remain separate from politics. Saxena also expressed gratitude to the local administration and Tourism Department for inviting him to Zanskar, saying it was his first visit to the scenic valley and had provided him an opportunity to meet the local people and experience the regions beauty. He thanked the administration, particularly the Tourism Secretary, and acknowledged the presence of senior officials and guests, including the Chief Executive Officer of Kargil and other dignitaries.
Final chance for staff seeking qualification exemption
Srinagar, Sept 15: The Directorate of School Education Jammu (DSEJ) has given a final opportunity to teaching and other staff of the School Education Department who obtained higher qualifications through distance or online mode during their service without securing prior permission from the competent authority. According to an official notice issued by the Directorate, the Administrative Department, through Government Order No. 367-JK (Edu) of 2026 dated September 9, 2026, has extended the deadline for submission of cases seeking one-time exemption up to September 30, 2026. The Directorate has directed eligible employees of the Jammu Division to submit the required documents within 10 days from the date of issuance of the notice, along with recommendations from the concerned Chief Education Officer (CEO). The DSEJ has made it clear that no pending or fresh representations, claims or cases under Government Order No. 188-JK (Edu) of 2024, dated March 15, 2024, will be entertained after the expiry of the stipulated period, irrespective of the reasons cited. The concerned CEOs have also been instructed to ensure and certify that no case seeking one-time exemption for acquisition of higher qualifications by teaching or other staff remains pending before the competent authority in their respective districts.
The Science of Attention: Living Well in an Age of Constant Digital Distraction
One of Kashmir's defining strengths has been its rich tradition of learning, scholarship and intellectual curiosity. For generations, the pursuit of knowledge has been central to personal growth and social progress. Today, however, one of the greatest challenges is not the lack of information but the growing difficulty of paying attention. In an age of constant digital distraction, protecting attention has become essential for learning, innovation and human progress in Kashmir. Attention is one of the mind's most remarkable abilities. It enables people to focus on what matters, filter distractions, learn new skills, solve problems and make sound decisions. Cognitive scientists describe attention as the mental processes that allow the brain to select relevant information from the vast amount of sensory input it receives every moment. Without attention, learning becomes harder, memory weakens, and judgement suffers. Modern life places unprecedented demands on attention. Smartphones, social media and constant notifications compete for attention throughout the day. Research in neuroscience and psychology suggests that repeated interruptions and frequent task switching can make it more difficult to concentrate, retain information and think deeply. This challenge carries particular significance for Kashmir. As the region continues to invest in education, innovation and human development, the ability to focus has become increasingly valuable. Sustained attention remains an indispensable human capacity that enables individuals and societies to realize their potential. Kashmir, too, has benefited from greater digital connectivity, wider access to knowledge and new opportunities for learning, innovation and entrepreneurship. Recent advances in cognitive science show that attention acts as a selective filter, enabling the brain to focus on relevant information while reducing competing distractions. Researchers distinguish between different forms of attention. Sometimes attention is captured automatically by something new or unexpected, such as a notification. At other times, attention is directed consciously towards a particular goal or task. In today's digital environment, strengthening this deliberate form of attention has become increasingly important for learning, informed decision-making and clear thinking. Evidence increasingly suggests that attention is one of the defining human resources of the digital age. Studies indicate that uninterrupted periods of reading, learning, reflection and focused work can strengthen concentration, improve memory and deepen understanding. The science of attention has become an important area of research in neuroscience, psychology and cognitive science. Universities and research institutions across the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Europe and India continue to study how attention influences learning, decision-making, mental wellbeing and healthy ageing. In India, the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bengaluru has made significant contributions to research on cognition, attention and brain health. It is an essential human capacity that deserves care, practice and protection. Every human being possesses qualities that no machine can fully replace. People can reason, imagine, create, empathise and search for truth with an open mind. These qualities flourish when the mind is calm, disciplined and focused. A distracted mind is more likely to react impulsively, while a focused mind is better able to listen carefully, reflect thoughtfully and make balanced decisions. These qualities remain relevant in everyday life and are just as important in the digital age. Neuroscience shows that the brain continues to change throughout life. This ability, known as neuroplasticity, strengthens the neural pathways involved in learning and attention through repeated practice. Reading, learning new skills, spending time with family, enjoying nature and engaging in enriching conversations help cultivate sustained attention. Living well in the digital age calls for using technology with purpose, balance and awareness. Alongside the many opportunities that digital technologies provide, spending time away from screens, appreciating Kashmir's natural surroundings, engaging with family and community, reading with patience and allowing moments of stillness can refresh the mind and restore perspective. Cultivating attention benefits society as a whole. Habits such as reading deeply and using technology responsibly strengthen learning, clear thinking and informed decision-making. The years ahead will depend not only on technological progress but also on the wisdom with which technology is used. Knowledge achieves its greatest value when guided by integrity, compassion, responsibility and a commitment to the common good. The science of attention offers a lesson that extends far beyond neuroscience. What receives sustained attention gradually shapes the way people think, what they learn, the decisions they make and, ultimately, the kind of society they build. In a world where information is abundant but attention is limited, the ability to focus has become one of the defining skills of the twenty-first century. In Kashmir, this carries particular significance. As the region continues to invest in education, innovation and human development, protecting attention also means protecting one of its greatest strengths: the curiosity, creativity and potential of its people. A society that values thoughtful reading, informed thinking, lifelong learning and the responsible use of technology strengthens its capacity to innovate, adapt and flourish. Technology will continue to evolve, but the human qualities that give it purpose will remain indispensable. Wisdom, compassion, integrity, creativity and sound judgement are cultivated through education, experience and human interaction, and they will continue to shape how technology serves individuals and society. Looking ahead, the future of Kashmir will be shaped not only by the technologies its people use but also by the quality of the attention they cultivate. If attention is protected and strengthened, learning becomes deeper, decisions become wiser and innovation becomes more purposeful. Above all, one of the most valuable investments Kashmir can make is in the essential human capacity from which learning, creativity, discovery and progress all begin: attention. (Dr Nasir Shah is a former Additional Director, JKSTIC, Department of Science and Technology, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. He has remained actively associated with the promotion of science, scientific temper, innovation and educational awareness across Jammu and Kashmir. Er. Suhaib Bakshi writes on science, technology, human cognition and learning. Feedback :nasir.shah@rediffmail.com | bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com)
Illegal Mining: The Assault on Kashmirs Land and Water
There is a disturbing silence around illegal mining in Jammu and Kashmir. It is the kind of silence that grows not because the problem is small, but because it has become familiar. Trucks move at odd hours, excavators tear into riverbanks, hills are cut open and stones, sand and other minerals are carried away. People see it. Communities speak about it. Yet, in many places, the activity continues with little fear of consequence. Illegal mining is not merely the unauthorised removal of minor minerals. It is a direct assault on the ecological foundations of the region. It damages rivers, weakens embankments, destroys agricultural land, accelerates soil erosion and puts pressure on already fragile water systems. In a mountainous and environmentally sensitive region like Jammu and Kashmir, the consequences are neither distant nor abstract. They appear in the form of shrinking river channels, damaged roads, falling groundwater levels, dusty settlements and an increasing vulnerability to floods and landslides. The demand for construction material is real. Roads, homes, bridges and public infrastructure cannot be built without sand, gravel, stone and other minerals. But the legitimacy of this demand cannot be used to justify illegal extraction. Development cannot become a licence to destroy the very landscape on which life and livelihoods depend. Riverbeds have become some of the most visible sites of this destruction. Sand and gravel are extracted in quantities far beyond what rivers can naturally replenish. Once the riverbed is excessively mined, the flow of water changes. The river begins to cut deeper into its channel, banks become unstable and nearby agricultural fields face greater erosion. During heavy rainfall, weakened banks can collapse quickly, threatening homes, roads and public infrastructure. The damage is often cumulative. A single extraction point may not appear catastrophic. But when mining takes place at several locations along the same river, the combined impact becomes severe. The river loses its natural balance. Its ability to absorb floods is reduced, its course may shift and its surrounding ecosystem begins to deteriorate. What appears to be a local act of extraction eventually becomes a regional environmental problem. The situation is even more alarming in Kashmirs flood-prone geography. The region has already experienced the destructive consequences of unplanned construction, encroachment and changes in natural drainage. Continued illegal mining adds another layer of vulnerability. By weakening riverbanks and altering water channels, it increases the risks that communities may face during periods of intense rainfall or sudden flooding. The hills, too, are being treated as if they were inexhaustible. Hill cutting for stone and other material leaves slopes exposed and unstable. Vegetation is removed, soil is loosened and natural drainage patterns are disturbed. In a region vulnerable to landslides, such practices are reckless. Every unregulated cut into a hillside can create a future hazard for a road, a village or a stretch of cultivated land. The economic argument often made in favour of illegal mining is equally flawed. It is said that the activity provides employment and keeps construction material available. But an economy built on the destruction of natural resources cannot be called sustainable. The immediate profit earned by a few operators is eventually paid for by the wider public through damaged roads, degraded farmland, costly flood-control measures and loss of drinking-water sources. The burden is especially heavy on rural communities. Farmers depend on stable river systems, fertile soil and predictable access to water. When riverbanks are mined, or agricultural land is damaged by heavy vehicle movement, the impact is felt directly in household incomes. The loss is not limited to one season. Once fertile soil is washed away, or a natural water source is disturbed, recovery can take years, if it is possible at all. Illegal mining also raises serious questions about governance. The continued operation of mining sites cannot always be explained by lack of knowledge. In many cases, these activities are visible to local communities and pass through public roads. Heavy machinery, trucks and stockpiles of material are difficult to conceal. When illegal extraction continues for long periods, people naturally begin to question whether enforcement is weak, compromised or simply selective. The answer cannot be limited to occasional raids and the seizure of a few vehicles. Such actions may create headlines, but they do not dismantle the network that makes illegal mining possible. Effective enforcement must identify the people financing the activity, the operators managing it, the transporters carrying the material and the buyers who create the demand. Unless the entire chain is addressed, action against individual machines will remain temporary. Technology can help. Satellite imagery, drone surveys, digital permits, vehicle-tracking systems and regular monitoring of riverbeds can make it harder for illegal operators to work unnoticed. Mining permissions should be publicly accessible, clearly mapped and regularly updated. The public should know where extraction is permitted, how much material can be removed and which agency is responsible for monitoring compliance. Transparency is not a luxury in environmental governance. It is a safeguard against abuse. When mining permits, environmental assessments and enforcement records remain inaccessible, suspicion grows. Communities living near extraction sites must have a meaningful role in monitoring them. Their complaints should not be dismissed as routine grievances. Local residents are often the first to notice changes in river flow, unusual truck movement, damaged embankments or the arrival of heavy machinery. At the same time, legal mining must also be regulated honestly. Illegal activity flourishes when legal supplies are insufficient, permits are delayed or the system is too complicated for ordinary construction needs. The solution, however, is not to weaken environmental rules. Authorities must create a transparent and efficient system that meets legitimate demand while keeping extraction within scientifically determined limits. The administration must also recognise that environmental protection is not opposed to development. On the contrary, it is a condition for durable development. A road built with illegally extracted material is not a sign of progress if its construction destroys the river beside it. A building cannot be called development if its foundation contributes to the loss of a nearby water source. Infrastructure must be measured not only by what it creates, but also by what it damages. There is a need for stronger accountability at every level. Officials responsible for monitoring mining sites should be answerable for repeated violations in their jurisdiction. Penalties must be substantial enough to deter profit-driven operators. Vehicles and machinery used repeatedly for illegal extraction should face strict legal action. Environmental restoration should be made a mandatory part of enforcement, with offenders required to help repair damaged riverbanks, restore mined areas and rehabilitate affected land. The judiciary and regulatory institutions also have an important role. Environmental laws must not remain confined to official files. Their enforcement must be consistent, prompt and visible. If illegal mining is treated as a minor administrative violation, operators will continue to calculate that the profits outweigh the risks. The law must communicate clearly that the destruction of rivers and hills is a serious public offence. Ultimately, the issue is about the kind of future Jammu and Kashmir wants. A region blessed with rivers, wetlands, forests and mountains cannot afford to treat nature as an unlimited warehouse of raw material. Its ecological wealth is not an obstacle to prosperity. It is the foundation of agriculture, tourism, public health and human security. Illegal mining is often described as a problem of enforcement. It is that, but it is also a problem of political will and public priorities. The question is not whether construction should stop. The question is whether construction will be allowed to proceed by sacrificing rivers, hills and the rights of communities. The answer must be clear. No short-term profit can justify permanent ecological damage. The rivers of Kashmir are not empty channels, and its hills are not disposable quarries. They are living systems that protect settlements, sustain farms and shape the regions future. If they are allowed to be hollowed out in the name of development, the cost will eventually be paid by everyone. (The Author is a research scholar and columnist)
Fuelling Deep-Tech: Building Indias Semiconductor Product Champions via R&D and IP
India has established formidable depth in semiconductor design and engineering, with its talent contributing to some of the worlds most sophisticated chip programmes. The strategic imperative now is to convert that engineering prowess into enterprise valuebuilding Indian & India-based global semiconductor companies that invest in R&D in India, conceive and commercialise differentiated products, own the intellectual property at their core, and compete at or near the technological frontier in global markets. This is an important distinction. Participation in the semiconductor economy and ownership within it are not the same. India has long supplied high-quality engineering talent to the global technology industry; the greater economic prize lies in converting that intellectual capital into proprietary architectures, products and platforms; and those product decisions are made in India. In an industry where a disproportionate share of value accrues to those who own differentiated technology and IP, the emergence of Indian product companies could fundamentally alter the countrys position in the global semiconductor value chain. Semicon 2.0 can provide an important impetus to this transition. Approved with an outlay of 1,27,500 crore, the programme places greater emphasis on chip design, R&D, talent development and the wider semiconductor ecosystem. It builds on the Union Budget 202627 announcement of ISM 2.0 with a focus on industry-led research, technology development and skilled workforce creation. The foundations are becoming increasingly substantial. Indias first semiconductor mission, backed by an outlay of 76,000 crore, helped catalyse investment in fabrication, packaging and chip design. Under the programme, 12 semiconductor manufacturing projects representing committed investments exceeding 1.64 lakh crore have now been approved, with three having commenced commercial production. Semicon 2.0 widens the aperture furtheracross design, fabrication, advanced packaging, equipment and materials, talent development, and along with ANRF & RDI fund, drives the next phase of R&D in India. For Indian startups, the opportunity is to move up the value chainfrom providing semiconductor design and engineering services to building products and creating indigenous IP. Bringing together design support, industry-led R&D, specialised talent and patient venture capital can help promising deep-tech startups make this transition. Capital will be particularly consequential to this transition. Semiconductor ventures operate on timelines and risk profiles fundamentally different from those of conventional software startups, often requiring years of sustained engineering before meaningful revenues begin to materialise. Fabrication, validation and successive design iterations add further layers of cost and complexity, making access to patient, risk-tolerant capital essential. Building enduring semiconductor companies will therefore depend not simply on expanding the pool of available funding, but on cultivating an investment ecosystem with the technical understanding and long-term horizon required to underwrite innovation from early research through commercial scale. Yet capital alone cannot create globally competitive semiconductor companies. It must be complemented by a deeper continuum connecting universities, research institutions, startups and industry, allowing scientific and engineering advances to move more seamlessly from the laboratory into the marketplace. The most consequential semiconductor companies are typically built at this intersectionwhere specialised research meets entrepreneurial ambition, experienced engineering talent and a clear pathway to commercialisation. Strengthening industry-academia collaboration, expanding access to shared research and prototyping infrastructure, and creating more effective mechanisms for commercialising indigenous research can help turn promising technologies into defensible intellectual property, viable products and, ultimately, globally competitive enterprises. There is already an encouraging base from which to build. More than 100 startups are developing chips under Indias emerging design ecosystem. The challenge ahead is to ensure that the strongest of these ventures can progress from designing a chip to owning a product roadmap, building defensible IP, securing global customers and ultimately scaling into enduring technology enterprises. The ultimate measure of Indias semiconductor ambition will not be how much of the global value chain it can attract, but how much of the future it can create. The real breakthrough will come when chips conceived in India, powered by Indian R&D leading to intellectual property, built into globally competitive products become not the exception, but the signature of Indias technological ascent. (The Author is the CEO, Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India. Courtesy: PIB)
Govt sets 0.4% fee on UPI Merchant Payments above Rs 2,000; Capped at Rs 300
NEW DELHI, Sept 15: Ending nearly six years of a fully free Unified Payments Interface (UPI) network for merchants, the government on Tuesday introduced a 0.4 per cent transaction fee on payment above Rs 2,000, capped at Rs 300 for payments of Rs 75,000 and above, from October 15, while explicitly ring-fencing everyday person-to-person transfers [] The post Govt sets 0.4% fee on UPI Merchant Payments above Rs 2,000; Capped at Rs 300 appeared first on Northlines .
MMU plans monthly sermons on social issues
Srinagar, Sep 15: In a significant initiative aimed at addressing the growing social and environmental challenges confronting J&K, the Mirwaiz Umar Farooq-led Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) on Tuesday resolved to dedicate one Friday every month to a specific social evil, urging Imams and Khateebs across mosques and shrines to lead a coordinated campaign for awareness and reform. The decision was taken at a day-long Ulema Meet and Seerat Conference held in Srinagar, marking the return of a major MMU gathering after a gap of more than two years. More than 70 Ulema and religious leaders from Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh participated in the conference, which focused on the religious, moral and societal responsibilities of the clergy in addressing contemporary challenges. The gathering brought together scholars from different districts of Kashmir, besides representatives from Jammu, Poonch, Rajouri, Kargil and Doda, who travelled to Srinagar for the conference. Addressing media men after the conclusion of the session, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said a unanimous consensus had emerged on dedicating one Friday every month to a specific social issue, ensuring that the selected concern is taken up collectively through sermons and community programmes. Imams and Khateebs of all masjids and shrines will deliberate on one specific topic, be it drugs among teenagers, suicides, immorality or environmental degradation, Mirwaiz said. The initiative seeks to take the discussion beyond occasional conferences and speeches by ensuring that religious institutions collectively focus on issues requiring sustained public attention and practical intervention. The conference also resolved to undertake visits to different districts of J&K and establish contact with local residents, NGOs, Ulema and community organisations to understand area-specific challenges and evolve strategies to address them. Mirwaiz said the proposed outreach would cover both societal and environmental concerns, enabling the MMU to work more closely with communities and develop grassroots responses to the problems affecting people. The conference expressed serious concern over drug and substance abuse, suicides and self-harm, mental and emotional distress among youth, irresponsible use of social media, weakening family bonds and the growing disconnect between young people and religious and community institutions. Particular emphasis was laid on the need to address suicide and self-harm through compassion, awareness and timely support. The Ulema underlined the importance of sensitising communities to the warning signs of distress and guiding those in need towards professional counselling and mental-health support. They also emphasised that mosques and madrasas can contribute through guidance, youth engagement and referrals, while serious mental-health concerns require trained professional care. On drug addiction, Mirwaiz welcomed the warning issued by the Lieutenant Governors administration and urged the authorities to adopt a tough approach towards drug abusers. At the same time, he appealed to the administration to spare their families from unnecessary hardship and ensure that action remains focused on addressing the problem humanely. Mirwaiz also called for a ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that efforts to combat drug addiction would be undermined if alcohol availability continued to expand. Meanwhile, a statement issued by the MMU said that the conference expressed concern over the promotion and expansion of liquor availability in the name of tourism, maintaining that a consistent social policy was necessary to protect young people from addiction and its consequences. The second major resolution focused on unity within the Muslim Ummah, sectarian harmony and mutual respect among different schools of thought. The Ulema acknowledged that differences of Maslak and religious interpretation have historically existed within the Muslim community. However, they stressed that such differences must not become a source of hatred, hostility or division, the statement said. The participants unanimously emphasised that the Mimbar of the mosque is an Amanaha sacred trustand must not be used to ridicule another Maslak, promote sectarianism or deepen divisions among Muslims.
Bring UCC to Parliament if you have numbers: CM
Says national legislation cannot be decided by individual States Srinagar, Sep 15:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday asked the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government to bring the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) legislation before Parliament if it has the numbers to pass it, questioning the move to pursue the issue through individual states. Talking to reporters [] The post Bring UCC to Parliament if you have numbers: CM appeared first on Northlines .
CM, LoP lock horns over Assembly Session schedule
Sharma calls 5- sittings a mockery; Omar defends decision Srinagar, Sep 15:Setting the stage for a stormy session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma on Tuesday locked horns over the duration of the upcoming session. In a preview of fireworks for upcoming session, the CM [] The post CM, LoP lock horns over Assembly Session schedule appeared first on Northlines .
Rain, thundershowers likely in J
Jammu Tawi, Sep 15:Jammu and Kashmir is likely to witness generally cloudy weather with brief spells of rain, thundershowers and gusty winds at many places on September 16 and 17, the Meteorological Centre Srinagar said on Tuesday. The weather department has forecast generally dry weather across the Union Territory from September 18 to 25, with [] The post Rain, thundershowers likely in J&K over next two days: MeT appeared first on Northlines .
Police detain MLA Mehraj, produce him before Court
Jammu Tawi, Sep 15:Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Jammu and Kashmir president and Doda MLA Mehraj Malik was detained by Doda Police on Tuesday and produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrates (CJM) Court after a Non-Bailable Warrant (NBW) was issued against him in connection with a pending criminal case. According to the details, Police clarified that [] The post Police detain MLA Mehraj, produce him before Court appeared first on Northlines .
Former AC Revenue Jammu booked for transferring Gair Mumkin Khad
Jammu Tawi, Sep 15:The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), J&K, has registered an FIR against former Assistant Commissioner (Revenue), Jammu and four private beneficiaries for allegedly granting illegal permissions for the transfer of Gair Mumkin Khad land in Jammu. In a statement issued, a spokesperson said the ACB, J&K, has registered FIR No. 12/2026 at Police Station [] The post Former AC Revenue Jammu booked for transferring Gair Mumkin Khad appeared first on Northlines .
Army GOC reviews security, counter-terrorism ops
Jammu Tawi: General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps Lieutenant General P K Mishra on Tuesday visited operational locations in the Surankote area of Poonch district to review the prevailing security situation and ongoing focused counter-terrorism operations, the Army said. The Corps Commander was briefed on ongoing operations for domination of the Pir Panjal [] The post Army GOC reviews security, counter-terrorism ops appeared first on Northlines .
88 dead, 1,000 injured in 699 accidents in 4 districts of Jammu this year; over 8,000 riders fined
Jammu Tawi: With 88 people killed and over 1,000 injured in road accidents across Kathua, Samba, Rajouri and Poonch during the first seven months of this year, Traffic Police Rural Jammu conducted a special drive targeting two-wheeler violations, which accounted for 44 per cent of the crashes, booking 8,675 violators, an official said on Tuesday. [] The post 88 dead, 1,000 injured in 699 accidents in 4 districts of Jammu this year; over 8,000 riders fined appeared first on Northlines .
RailOne App gains popularity, unreserved ticket bookings rise in Jammu
Jammu Tawi: The RailOne app developed by Indian Railways is gaining popularity among passengers in Jammu division, with a significant rise in the booking of unreserved tickets through the digital platform, railway officials said. The initiative is part of the Railways efforts to promote digital services and provide passengers with convenient, quick and hassle-free travel [] The post RailOne App gains popularity, unreserved ticket bookings rise in Jammu appeared first on Northlines .
Helipad, waiting lounge to come up in Poonch
Jammu Tawi: A helipad and waiting lounge will be built at Qasab village in Mendhar sector of Poonch district, with Jal Shakti Minister Javed Ahmed Rana laying the foundation stone for the project on Tuesday, an official spokesperson said. Approved by the Omar Abdullah-led government and taken up under the UT CAPEX, the project entails [] The post Helipad, waiting lounge to come up in Poonchs Qasab village appeared first on Northlines .
AI in Agriculture: A Promise That Must Reach the Farmer
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way the world understands agriculture. From predicting weather patterns and detecting crop diseases to improving irrigation and estimating yields, AI is opening new possibilities for farmers. For a region like Kashmir, where agriculture remains closely tied to livelihoods, food security and rural stability, this technology could offer important support. But its promise will be meaningful only if it reaches the farmer in the field, not merely the conference hall or policy document. Kashmirs agriculture faces several challenges. Erratic weather, changing snowfall patterns, water stress, pest attacks, fragmented landholdings and weak market access continue to affect farm incomes. Apple growers, vegetable producers, saffron cultivators and paddy farmers often make crucial decisions with limited and delayed information. A sudden spell of rain, an unfamiliar disease or a shift in temperature can damage an entire seasons effort. AI-based tools can help reduce this uncertainty by analysing large amounts of data and providing timely guidance. For instance, weather-linked advisories can help farmers decide when to sow, spray, irrigate or harvest. Image-based applications can identify early signs of disease in apple orchards and recommend appropriate treatment. Sensors can monitor soil moisture and reduce unnecessary use of water and fertilisers. Yield forecasting can help growers and policymakers prepare for storage, transport and market requirements. Such interventions can improve productivity while lowering costs and reducing waste. Yet technology is not a substitute for agricultural extension services. An application cannot replace the trust built by a trained field officer who understands local soil, climate and farming practices. AI systems are only as reliable as the data on which they are trained. If the data does not reflect Kashmirs geography, crops and small farms, the advice may be inaccurate or unsuitable. Local institutions must therefore work with scientists, farmers and technology providers to create region-specific datasets. The digital divide is another concern. Many farmers may not possess smartphones, stable internet connections or the confidence to use complex applications. Information provided only in English will exclude a large section of the farming community. AI tools must be available in local languages, simple to operate and supported through village-level centres, cooperatives and agricultural offices. Training should be treated as seriously as software development. There are also questions of data ownership and privacy. Farmers should know who collects information about their land, crops and production, and how that data will be used. Technology companies must not turn farmers into passive suppliers of data while retaining all the benefits. Public policy must ensure transparency, accountability and fair access. The government should begin with pilot projects in selected districts, focusing on clearly defined problems such as apple disease, saffron productivity, irrigation management and weather alerts. Their results must be independently evaluated and openly shared. AI can strengthen Kashmirs agricultural economy, but only if it serves farmers rather than replacing their knowledge. The future of farming will not be built by machines alone. It will depend on a partnership between technology, science and the wisdom of those who work the land.
Every road accident leaves behind more than twisted metal and shattered glass. It leaves families grieving, livelihoods disrupted and communities asking the same painful question: could this have been prevented? In most cases, the answer is yes. Speeding, reckless overtaking, driving on the wrong side, using mobile phones behind the wheel and ignoring basic traffic rules continue to make Kashmirs roads perilous. Road accidents are often described as unfortunate incidents, but rash driving is not an act of fate. It is a conscious disregard for the safety of others. A driver who races through a crowded market, overtakes on a blind curve or drives under the influence is not merely violating a regulation. They are placing innocent lives at risk. The tragedy is that many such violations continue openly, often in full view of enforcement agencies and bystanders. The growing number of vehicles on the roads has made the problem more serious. Narrow stretches, unregulated parking, encroachments, poor road design and inadequate pedestrian facilities add to the danger. In towns and cities, people are forced to share congested roads with fast-moving vehicles, while schoolchildren, elderly citizens and pedestrians remain particularly vulnerable. On highways, over speeding and dangerous overtaking can turn a moment of impatience into a permanent tragedy. The response cannot be limited to occasional traffic drives after an accident has already occurred. Enforcement must be regular, visible and impartial. Traffic rules should apply equally to private vehicles, commercial transport, two-wheelers and influential motorists. Speed cameras, breath analysers, helmet checks and strict action against repeat offenders can help, but only if enforcement is consistent rather than symbolic. There is also an urgent need to improve road engineering. Black spots must be identified and corrected. Proper lighting, marked crossings, functioning signals, crash barriers and pedestrian paths are not luxuries. They are basic requirements of a safe road network. Public transport vehicles should undergo regular fitness checks, and drivers must be trained not only in vehicle handling but also in responsible road behaviour. Families and educational institutions, too, have a role. Young people must be taught that a vehicle is not a symbol of power or speed but a responsibility. Parents should not celebrate reckless driving as a sign of confidence. Social media trends that glorify dangerous stunts and speeding deserve stronger scrutiny. Ultimately, road safety is a shared civic duty. The administration must enforce, engineers must correct, drivers must restrain themselves, and citizens must refuse to remain silent when rules are violated. Kashmir cannot afford to treat every fatal crash as another headline that fades with time. Every life lost on the road is a warning. The real measure of a society is whether it learns before the next family is made to mourn.
No alliance with BJP ahead of 2028 assembly polls, says KT Rama Rao
The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has officially stated it will not ally with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), while expressing support for a delimitation bill if it benefits southern states with additional seats. Previously, BRS backed the BJP on issues like GST and demonetisation, although KTR criticized support for demonetisation as a misstep. The party is also taking steps to address issues related to recent electoral roll deletions.
Genuine Concerns Over Artificial Intelligence Should Be Heeded
Bring in regulation to curb uncertainly about our future in AI Age By Anjan Roy Theres nothing artificial about the concern over what devastations artificial intelligence (AI) could wreck upon humankind. At four different and distinct layers these concerns are being articulated, though at times denied by some uninformed know-it-alls, like Donald Trump, the [] The post Genuine Concerns Over Artificial Intelligence Should Be Heeded appeared first on Northlines .
Saudi cancels some oil cargoes after pipeline hit, Poland seeks alternative
Supply disruption supported oil prices, with Brent oil futures trading near $108 a barrel and cargo prices in Europe's physical market even higher, with key benchmark dated Brent at $122 per barrel
Slain CM aide's mother Hasirani Rath is BJP's Nandigram face for West Bengal bypoll
Hasirani Rath, mother of a slain former aide, is the BJP candidate for Nandigram. She aims for a victory margin exceeding one lakh votes in the upcoming bypoll. Her son was allegedly murdered by supari killers for assisting Suvendu Adhikari. The CBI is investigating the murder and has filed a chargesheet. Adhikari stated that Hasirani Rath is a long-time party worker.
India's exports to US rise 21.83% in Aug; shipments to China jump 52.35%
The inbound shipments rose 17 per cent to USD 12.77 billion from China and by 65.78 per cent to USD 5.97 billion from the US, according to the ministry's data.
US data centers could consume more natural gas than Germany and Japan combined by 2035
The AI frenzy could push U.S. data centers to become one of the largest consumers of natural gas in the world.
Bukhari flags Srinagars growing civic woes
Srinagar, Sep 15: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday raised concern over the growing civic problems in Srinagar, saying the shortage of parking space in Downtown was only one aspect of a larger crisis facing the historic city. Bukhari said inadequate parking was affecting businesses in Downtown, including the historic markets of Sher-e-Khaas, but stressed that the city was also grappling with inadequate housing, poor infrastructure, damaged roads and lanes, insufficient drainage and a lack of basic amenities. He expressed particular concern over drinking water shortages in several parts of Srinagar, saying many residents continued to struggle for an adequate supply of potable water. Srinagar needs a comprehensive, long-term development plan. This requires political will and a firm commitment to putting peoples interests above politics, Bukhari said. He alleged that successive governments had failed to give the city a clear and sustainable development direction and urged the present administration to take the initiative to upgrade and modernise Srinagars infrastructure through a planned approach. Superficial measures will not solve the citys problems. We need planned development, better infrastructure and sustained investment, he said. Bukhari said Srinagar, being the centre of the regions social, cultural and economic life, should be treated as a development priority and its residents provided basic amenities for a dignified life.
Boosting Soil Microbes through Natural Farming
Dr. Parveen Kumar* Today marks the anniversary of a historic letter sent by Dutch scientist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek to the Royal Society of London containing the first formal description of single-celled organisms in 1683. This single cell microorganism was living bacteria present on the dental plaque. His discovery marked the beginning of microbiology and laying [] The post Boosting Soil Microbes through Natural Farming appeared first on Northlines .
WTITC, Sharjah Government Sign Technology Partnership
WTITC and Sharjah's SRTIP sign an MoU to connect Sharjah's research ecosystem with the global Telugu tech community for innovation and growth.
Gool power network gets a boost
Sangaldan, Sep 15: Banihal-Gool MLA Sajjad Shaheen on Tuesday dedicated the augmented Receiving Station at Sangaldan to the public, with its capacity increased from 3.15 MVA to 6.30 MVA. The augmentation is expected to reduce overloading, minimise power interruptions and improve the reliability and quality of electricity supply in Sangaldan and adjoining areas. Shaheen said reliable electricity was a basic necessity, particularly for people living in remote and mountainous areas, and assured that strengthening power infrastructure would remain a priority in the constituency. The augmentation of the Sangaldan Receiving Station will help address overloading and existing supply constraints and provide considerable relief to consumers, he said. With the latest augmentation, three receiving stations in the Banihal-Gool constituency have been strengthened as part of efforts to upgrade the power distribution network. During his two-day visit to Gool, Shaheen also inaugurated the BDO Office-cum-BDC Building at Sangaldan, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 45 lakh. He said the facility would strengthen administrative infrastructure and improve delivery of public services. He also inaugurated the BDO Office Building at Dharam and said it would improve access to government services for people in the area. The MLA later held a public darbar at Sangaldan, where residents raised various grievances and demands. Officers from different departments attended the interaction, and Shaheen directed them to ensure timely redressal of the issues. At Gool, he addressed a meeting of National Conference workers and urged party workers to maintain close contact with people and strengthen the organisation at the grassroots. Several political workers associated with the PDP also joined the National Conference on the occasion. Shaheen welcomed them into the party fold. He also reviewed local development issues during interactions with residents and party workers in Gool, Sangaldan and Dharam, and said such visits helped assess ongoing works and understand public concerns. Shaheen said power infrastructure would continue to be upgraded in a phased manner to ensure stable electricity supply, particularly during periods of peak demand.
BJP slams Pakistan over Azhar fugitive claim
Srinagar, Sep 15: Senior BJP leader and J&K BJP spokesman Altaf Thakur on Tuesday termed Pakistans latest move to list Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar among its most-wanted terrorists a big fraud, alleging that Islamabad was attempting to evade accountability over his presence in the country. Thakur said Azhar had not fled Pakistan and alleged that he continued to remain there under the protection of the establishment. Pakistans attempt to portray Masood Azhar as a fugitive is nothing but a big fraud and an exercise in deception, Thakur said, demanding that Islamabad hand over the JeM chief to India, where he is wanted in connection with major terror cases. His remarks came after Pakistan listed Azhar among its most-wanted terrorists and increased the reward for information leading to his arrest. Thakur questioned the timing of the move, saying it appeared to have come amid international scrutiny of Pakistans record on terrorism and ahead of an upcoming FATF review. He also referred to the BRICS Summit hosted by India, saying the New Delhi Declarations condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and reiteration of zero tolerance towards terrorism had increased international pressure on Pakistan. Thakur said Pakistan must demonstrate its commitment through concrete action rather than announcements, including by dismantling terror infrastructure and acting against internationally designated terrorists. If Pakistan really wants to prove that it has changed, let it act against Masood Azhar and other internationally designated terrorists, he said. He said India would continue to press for accountability of those involved in terrorism and work with the international community to counter terror financing, recruitment networks and safe havens.
Metro ridership in Pune rises 21% since last year on Ganeshotsavs 1st day
18-yr-old Agniveer aspirant collapses after endurance run, dies
Govt plans push to strengthen fruit mandis
Srinagar, Sep 15: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Tuesday interacted with the representatives of Fruit Mandi Associations from Kashmir Division at the Civil Secretariat here to discuss issues concerning the functioning of fruit mandis and strengthening of horticulture market infrastructure. The meeting was attended by Director Horticulture Marketing and Planning, Ghulam Jeelani Zargar; Managing Director, JKHPMC, Mohammad Farooq Dar; Director Horticulture Kashmir, Vikas Anand; Presidents of Fruit Mandi Associations from Kashmir Division besides other senior officers. During the interaction, the representatives apprised the Minister of various issues concerning the functioning of fruit mandis. They highlighted the need for strengthening the basic infrastructure and improving essential facilities for traders, fruit growers and labourers associated with the horticulture sector. Javid Ahmad Dar assured the representatives that their genuine concerns would be examined and resolved on priority basis. He directed the concerned officers to maintain close coordination with the mandi associations and take necessary measures for addressing their issues in a time-bound manner. The Minister emphasized that the government is committed to create a conducive and efficient working environment in fruit mandis, which play a vital role in facilitating horticulture trade and supporting the livelihoods of thousands of growers, traders and workers. Javid Dar stressed the need for strengthening the basic infrastructure and improving essential facilities in fruit mandis to facilitate smooth trade operations and ensure better working conditions for all stakeholders. He called for coordinated efforts by the concerned departments to identify infrastructure gaps, address operational bottlenecks and ensure timely execution of necessary improvement works. Highlighting the importance of the horticulture sector to Jammu and Kashmirs economy, the Minister underscored the need for sustained efforts to strengthen market infrastructure, improve trade facilitation and safeguard the interests of fruit growers and other stakeholders. He also emphasized the importance of regular interaction with the Fruit Mandi Associations to ensure that their concerns are promptly brought to the notice of the concerned authorities and resolved effectively.
NGT orders strict enforcement of silence-zone rules across Maharashtra
Speaker reviews Assembly session preparations
Srinagar, Sep 15: Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather on Tuesday reviewed arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Assemblys Autumn Session, scheduled to begin on September 21 in Srinagar. The Speaker convened a meeting with senior officers from the General Administration Department, Law, Information Technology, security, traffic, health, hospitality and protocol, estates, Srinagar Municipal Corporation and other departments. Rather stressed the need for close coordination, advance planning and administrative preparedness, describing the forthcoming session as short but carrying major responsibility. He directed authorities to ensure comprehensive security arrangements at the Assembly Secretariat and MLA Hostel, with effective coordination among security and administrative agencies. On legislative business, the Speaker asked the GAD to ensure timely submission of replies to Assembly questions and directed departments to designate nodal officers for coordination with the Assembly Secretariat. He also reviewed arrangements for transportation and parking and directed authorities to minimise inconvenience to the public. Government bills, he said, should be submitted to the Assembly Secretariat well in advance for timely processing and scheduling. The meeting was informed about the implementation of the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) on a hybrid model. The IT Department was directed to ensure reliable internet connectivity and technical support throughout the session. Rather also directed authorities to ensure effective traffic management around the Assembly premises and uninterrupted water and power supply. The SMC was asked to maintain sanitation and cleanliness around the Assembly complex and MLA Hostel. The Health and AYUSH departments were directed to make adequate medical facilities available for members, staff and visitors, while the Information Department was asked to ensure arrangements for media coverage of the proceedings. The Speaker directed all departments to maintain close coordination with the Assembly Secretariat and complete preparations well before the session begins. He said the objective was to ensure a smooth, orderly and productive session in keeping with the responsibilities of the legislature and the expectations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
3D food printing of balanced vegetarian dishes from rice and lentil flours
Rice and lentils are a pairing that goes a long way back, whether as khichdi in India or mujaddara in the Middle East. On its own, each is a source of incomplete protein, short on certain essential amino acids
BJP turns up heat on NC govt over short Assembly session
Srinagar, Sept 15: Jammu and Kashmir unit of BJP on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the National Conference-led government over the curtailed Assembly session, with Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma demanding that the House be convened for at least a month to provide legislators adequate time to raise and debate issues confronting the people. Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters in Jammu, Sharma said people had high expectations from the elected government and the Legislative Assembly remained the primary institutional platform for representatives to voice public concerns. Unfortunately, the government of Jammu and Kashmir has almost completely lost its legislative accountability. The Assembly has effectively been reduced to a joke, Sharma said. The 10-day Autumn Session of the J&K Assembly is scheduled to begin in Srinagar on September 21 and continue till September 30. As per the provisional calendar, the House will have seven sittings, with September 23, 26 and 27 marked as non-sitting days. Sharma objected to the limited number of sittings, saying that after accounting for the non-sitting days, legislators would have only a handful of substantive days to raise matters of public importance. By restricting the session to effectively only five substantive sittings, the government has made a mockery of the people of JK and their expectations, he said. The BJP leader also questioned the role of Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather, saying the Speakers chair was expected to remain impartial and ensure the proper functioning and dignity of the House. Sharma urged the Speaker to reconsider the schedule and extend the session to around 30 days, arguing that the Assembly was the only institutional forum available to elected representatives to directly raise people's grievances with the government. He also questioned the functioning of the Business Advisory Committee (BAC), which, he said, should facilitate discussion among political parties on the legislative business to be taken up during the session. Sharma questioned the purpose of the all-party meeting called by the Speaker for September 17, alleging that the dates, calendar and business of the session had already been decided. The attempt to hold a meeting on September 17 at 2 pm for just 10 minutes, merely to have tea and complete a formality, is deeply regrettable, he said. Questioning the Speaker's understanding of legislative procedure, Sharma asked whether the importance and dignity of the BAC and the Assembly were being adequately respected. The LoP also alleged that routine governance was not visible on the ground and claimed there was inadequate public outreach by ministers. For the past two years, there is hardly any sign of what can be called routine governance on the ground. There is no public outreach by the ministers, he alleged. Sharma further alleged that corruption had become prevalent from the level of officials to ministers, claiming that people were reluctant to visit government offices because of the burden of corruption. He said the decision to limit the Assembly session to seven sittings reflected what he termed the government's non-performance, arrogance and ego. The BJP Legislature Party, Sharma said, had recently undertaken public interactions at district headquarters to understand people's concerns. He claimed BJP legislators had met people across almost all district headquarters in the Jammu region and gathered issues that would be raised during the upcoming Assembly session. A marathon meeting was subsequently held to compile and finalise the issues identified during these interactions, he said. Sharma said the BJP Legislature Party had reached a consensus to raise the concerns of people who were suffering, deprived, exploited and victims during the forthcoming session.
Odisha govt rejects Dara Singh's plea for release from jail in Graham Staines, sons' murder case
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