Iran, Oman agree on new entry, exit routes for Strait of Hormuz: Report
Tehran , September 13 : Iran and Oman have agreed on the details of new entry and exit routes for the Strait of Hormuz and will brief Gulf countries on the outcome of their consultations at a regional meeting in Muscat on Monday, Iranian officials said on Saturday, according to Xinhua News. The development comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia, with the strategic waterway remaining a key focus of regional and international attention. The Iranian and Omani sides reached an understanding on the new routes following consultations, with details set to be presented to Gulf countries at the regional meeting in Muscat, Xinhua reported. Against this backdrop, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, in an exclusive interview with India Today on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, said BRICS was created to counter the unilateral sanctions regime of the United States. The objective of BRICS and what we have come here for is that, regarding the trend which has begun by the US and, you know, actually it sanctions any country it wishes. On the other hand, the BRICS intention is to break this kind of totalitarianism. That is why BRICS was developed, Pezeshkian said. He said BRICS members should develop alternative forms of trade and cooperation independent of sanctions imposed by individual countries. We're supposed to change the type of interactions and the type of trade and cooperation, regardless of and independent of the fact that one country may be, you know, at whim to sanction other countries, he said. Pezeshkian added that BRICS members should support each other to counter unilateralism. We are here to help each other and to support each other so that this unilateralism can be fought against, he said, adding that the objective was to derail America from this unilateralism. The remarks came amid renewed tensions involving Iran and the United States and heightened focus on stability and security in the West Asia region. Meanwhile, BRICS countries reached a consensus on the situation in West Asia, with dialogue and diplomacy emerging as the guiding principles for addressing conflicts, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs Sudhakar Dalela said on Saturday. Addressing a media briefing after the BRICS Leaders Summit, Dalela said the diverse development experiences and economic systems of BRICS members required space for discussions on national perspectives before building consensus. I would say that within the BRICS and in the preparation for the BRICS summit, we have been discussing these issues for some time, and I think it is the essence of the BRICS view is captured in para 28 of the New Delhi Declaration. In a grouping like BRICS, where we have members with diverse development experiences and diverse economic systems, it is important that we allow discussions to evolve and emerge, and we, as Chair, have provided a forum for very transparent discussion among us, and we have ensured that everybody is comfortable expressing their national perspective, and then within that framework, we try to build consensus and see which are the lending zones, which are the comfort areas, he said. I would say that we are very happy that we have an agreed approach on West Asia, and the centrepiece of that approach is that we all believe that dialogue and diplomacy should be the guiding parameter for addressing any conflict, any situation that requires a solution, and that is the only way to build lasting peace, security, and stability in any part of the world, Dalela added. His remarks came after BRICS leaders unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026 at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The declaration expressed deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in West Asia and called for maximum restraint and avoidance of actions that could further aggravate the situation. The BRICS countries urged the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and increased efforts through dialogue and diplomacy towards lasting peace, security and stability in the region. They also stressed the need to maintain the smooth flow of global trade, supply chains and energy in accordance with international law. The declaration expressed serious concern over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under full safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency, stressing that nuclear safeguards, safety and security must be upheld even during armed conflicts. (ANI)
Indonesian Passenger Ship Carrying 243 People Goes Missing
SRINAGAR: An Indonesian passenger ship carrying 243 people was reported missing in the Java Sea early Sunday after contact with the vessel was lost amid bad weather, the countrys search and rescue agency said. The vessel, Virgo Transport 8, had departed from Surabaya in East Java on Saturday for Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan when communication []
Jammu Kashmir: Two Officials Suspended for Alleged Dereliction of Duty During Digital Crop Survey
SRINAGAR: Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Mingpa Sherpa has suspended two officials for alleged dereliction of duty during the ongoing digital crop survey in the district. According to an official order, the suspended officials have been identified as Man Mohan, a GRS posted in the BDO Office Ghordi, and Rattan Lal, NYC, DYSSO. The order said the []
ADGP Armed Nitish Kumar Visits APC Mattan, Reviews Facilities ,Welfare Measures
Srinagar : Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Armed, J&K, Nitish Kumar, IPS, accompanied by DIG Armed, Kashmir Range, Maqsood-ul-Zaman, IPS, visited the Armed Police Complex (APC) Mattan in Anantnag and reviewed the administrative, welfare and training facilities available for police personnel. On his arrival, the ADGP was accorded a Guard of Honour by contingents of the 17 JKAP IR Battalion. He also paid homage to police martyrs at the Martyrs Gallery, honouring their sacrifice and service to the nation. During the visit, Kumar inspected various facilities at APC Mattan, including administrative blocks, barracks, MT and equipment stores and the gymnasium. He took stock of the facilities and welfare measures being provided to the personnel. A Joint Darbar of personnel from the 10, 11 and 17 JKAP IR Battalions was also held during the visit. The ADGP interacted with the personnel, heard their grievances and issued directions for the prompt redressal of genuine issues. He underlined that personnel welfare, morale and a conducive working environment remain key priorities. The ADGP also inaugurated several newly established facilities at APC Mattan, stressing the importance of continuous professional development and capacity building. Addressing the personnel, Kumar called for further strengthening of training programmes, with emphasis on physical fitness, mental well-being, discipline and operational preparedness. He encouraged personnel to participate regularly in sports and physical activities at unit and company levels. He also advised police personnel to stay away from drugs, excessive online gambling and other harmful habits, urging them to adopt healthy, disciplined and constructive lifestyles. As part of the visit, the ADGP participated in a tree plantation drive at the APC premises, planting Deodar and Chinar saplings. The initiative highlighted the importance of environmental conservation and creating a greener and sustainable environment. The ADGP further directed all Commanding Officers to meet the families of martyrs and retired police personnel at least twice a month, listen to their concerns and ensure timely redressal of genuine issues. DIG SKR Anantnag Javid Iqbal Matoo, SSP Anantnag Amod Ashok Nagpuri , SSP SO to ADGP Armed J&K Dalip Kumar, SSP/CO 10 JKAP IR Mohd Majid Malik, SP/I/C CO 17 JKAP IR Zahid Samoon, SP/I/C CO 11 JKAP IR Rahil Marchal, and DySP (S) and Private Secretary to ADGP Armed Syed Sajad Hussain, besides other officers, were present on the occasion.
CIK raids multiple locations in South Kashmir
Kulgam, Sept 13: The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) on Sunday conducted search raids at multiple locations across South Kashmir in connection with a terror-related case, officials said. An official said that searches were carried out at several locations in Shopian and Kulgam districts as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged subversive activities. He said the raids were conducted by CIK teams with the assistance of other security agencies. Further investigation is underway and cognizance has been taken up, he said.(KNO)
District Pencak Silat Cship Bandipora begins
Bandipora, Sep 12: The District Pencak Silat Championship Bandipora 2026 began on Saturday at Government Boys Primary School, Aragam, with around 200 students from different schools across the district taking part in the two-day event. The championship is being organised by the District Pencak Silat Association Bandipora, with competitions being held across different weight categories in Senior, Junior, Pre-Teen and Pre-Junior divisions. The event seeks to introduce Pencak Silat to more children and youth in the area and create interest in the sport at the grassroots level, with the long-term objective of nurturing athletes who can compete at higher levels and represent Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir and the country. Major Achyut Mishra, Company Commander, Charlie Company, 13 Rashtriya Rifles, Aragam, Bandipora, attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest. Arsullah Habib, Teacher, Government Primary Boys Middle School Aragam, was the guest of honour, while Padma Shri awardee Faisal Ali Dar, Brand Ambassador of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, was also present. Speaking on the occasion, Major Achyut Mishra said it was the first time he had witnessed an official sporting competition being held in the area. Appreciating the participation of the students, he said children from the upper belt possess considerable physical strength and that such competitions can provide them with exposure and help channelise their abilities in a constructive manner. Faisal Ali Dar stressed the importance of taking sporting activities to areas where opportunities remain limited. He said introducing children to different sports at an early age can help identify talent and encourage more youth to pursue sports, while also keeping them engaged in positive activities and away from drugs. The championship will conclude on September 13 with the award ceremony, where the winning athletes will be felicitated for their performances. The best-performing players will also be selected for the upcoming UT-level Pencak Silat Championship, providing them an opportunity to compete at a higher level.
J&K launches UT-wide apprenticeship campaign under NAPS
Srinagar, Sep 12: To strengthen industrial productivity, the Department of Skill Development, Jammu & Kashmir, has launched a Union Territory-wide awareness-cum-registration campaign under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), aimed at creating stronger linkages between classroom learning and the evolving requirements of industry. The campaign has received an overwhelming response, with more than 15,000 youth registering on the official apprenticeship portal across all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir in the last few days alone. At the same time, over 2000 MSMEs, industrial establishments and other organisations have onboarded onto the apprenticeship ecosystem, offering structured apprenticeship opportunities with stipend support. The initiative is based on the principle of Earn while You Learn, under which apprentices receive on-the-job training along with a stipend and an opportunity to gain practical workplace experience. Apprenticeships generally range from one to two years, enabling young people to acquire industry-relevant skills, workplace discipline and practical exposure while working in real industrial environments. The District Skill Committees are working closely with the Government ITIs, Polytechnics, industrial establishments, MSMEs and other stakeholders to identify apprenticeship opportunities and facilitate registration of eligible youth. The Deputy Commissioners are also monitoring the progress of the campaign at the district level and ensuring convergence among the various departments and field-level institutions. The Department of Skill Development is working in close coordination with the departments including Industries and Commerce, Labour & Employment and other concerned departments to take the registration process directly to industrial clusters. As part of this coordinated effort, registration and facilitation camps are being organised at industrial estates, providing MSME owners and industrial establishments with on-the-spot guidance regarding registration, apprenticeship engagement, stipend support and other provisions available under NAPS. Prominent industry stakeholders, trade bodies and Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs), including organisations such as NHAI and NHPC, have also joined the effort by supporting awareness, handholding and registration activities. Recognising the significant employment potential of the hospitality and tourism sector in Jammu & Kashmir, the Department has also been reaching out to private hotels and hospitality establishments to expand apprenticeship opportunities in the sector. A number of private hotels have volunteered to engage apprentices, creating opportunities for young people to acquire practical skills in areas such as hospitality operations, food and beverage services, housekeeping, front office operations and other allied functions. The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme provides an important platform for establishments to participate in skill development while gaining access to government financial support towards apprenticeship training. For young people, the programme offers an opportunity to supplement their academic or technical qualifications with practical workplace experience and recognised apprenticeship certification. The Department of Skill Development has urged more industrial establishments, MSMEs, PSUs, hotels and other eligible organisations to come forward and create apprenticeship opportunities for the youth of Jammu & Kashmir. Interested establishments and candidates can register through the official Apprenticeship Portal at apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. The candidates and establishments may also visit their nearest Government ITI or Polytechnic college for assistance and guidance regarding registration and engagement under NAPS. The department has reiterated that the campaign will continue across all districts with a focus on maximum youth participation, wider industry engagement and creation of a sustainable apprenticeship ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.
DC Gbal reviews arrangements for Annual Gangbal Yatra
Ganderbal, Sep 12: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore on Saturday visited Naranag Temple and reviewed the arrangements being put in place in connection with the forthcoming Annual Gangbal Yatra 2026. During the visit, the DC conducted an on-spot inspection and took a detailed assessment of the arrangements and ongoing preparatory works. He reviewed the progress of various tasks assigned to the concerned departments and issued necessary directions for their timely completion. The DC directed all concerned officers to complete their assigned tasks within the stipulated timeline and ensure that all arrangements are in place by September 15. The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments to ensure adequate water supply, uninterrupted power arrangements with generator backup, and installation of sufficient tents and toilet facilities at designated locations for the convenience of pilgrims. He further directed the concerned agencies to ensure proper road maintenance, traffic regulation, cleanliness and sanitation, healthcare facilities and other essential arrangements along the identified route and at designated locations. During the onspot inspection, the DC also assessed the availability and preparedness of essential facilities and directed the concerned officers to address any gaps or deficiencies immediately. He stressed that all facilities must be made fully functional well in advance of the Yatra. The Deputy Commissioner emphasised close coordination among all departments and agencies and directed the officers to undertake regular field inspections and ensure timely execution of all assigned works, keeping the safety, convenience and welfare of pilgrims as the priority. The DC was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, SDM Kangan, SDPO Kangan, Chief Medical Officer Ganderbal, Executive Engineer PW(R&B) Kangan, Executive Engineer PHE Ganderbal, Executive Engineer I&FC Ganderbal, Executive Engineer KPDCL Ganderbal, Executive Engineer PMGSY Ganderbal, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat Ganderbal, Tehsildar Kangan, Block Development Officer Kangan, Ganderbal, Dy. Superintendent Traffic (Rural) Ganderbal, Range Officer Wildlife and other concerned officials.
Industries Commissioner calls for inclusion of artisans in Meeras Cooperative
Srinagar, Sep 12: Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Jammu and Kashmir Vikramjit Singh on Saturday visited the Production Carpet Weaving Centre of Meeras Cooperative Society at Ashayeebagh, Hazratbal Road, Srinagar, accompanied by Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir Masrat Ul Islam and Director, IICT Nowshera. During the visit, the Commissioner Secretary interacted with carpet weavers and the Board of Directors and stressed the need to enrol maximum artisans and weavers from across Kashmir as members of the cooperative, enabling them to access the benefits of various government schemes. He also called for wider outreach to bring more artisans within the cooperatives ambit. He advised the management to maximise benefits under the RAMP Scheme of the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, and explore support available through NABARDs REPO scheme for eligible off-farm producer institutions. Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir Masrat Ul Islam apprised the participants about government schemes that can support weavers and manufacturers and assured all possible assistance from the government. Farooq Ahmad Shah, President Meeras, emphasised the need for maximum utilisation of the GI tag for Kashmir carpets through effective branding and promotion. Sheikh Ashiq, Patron Meeras and COA Member, CPEC India, stressed the importance of expanding exports and called for a dedicated export policy benefiting both weavers and manufacturers. The visit underscored the need to strengthen artisan participation, scheme outreach, GI-based promotion and international market access for Kashmirs carpet industry.
HAS & DSE Bandipora mark 5th death anniversary of Dr. Aziz Hajini
Sonawari, Sep 12: The 5th death anniversary of the towering literary icon, former secretary of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) & eminent critic, writer and language activist Dr. Aziz Hajini was observed on Saturday with profound reverence and enthusiasm. The commemorative event was organized by the Wahab Cultural Society, (WCS) Hajin, in collaboration with the Department of School Education Bandipora. The solemn yet inspiring occasion brought together hundreds of school children, teachers, educationists & prominent members of civil society to pay glowing tributes to a visionary leader who dedicated his entire life to the preservation and promotion of the Kashmiri language and cultural heritage. Dr. Hajinis legacy spans monumental contributions across diverse premier institutions, including his leadership as former president of Adbi Markaz Kamraz (Kashmirs largest literary amalgam), alongside his impactful associations with the J&K Board of School Education, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir, the University of Kashmir, and the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, among several other Union Territory and national-level organizations. The program commenced with a warm and inspiring welcome address presented by Nazir Javed, Patron of the Wahab Cultural Society, Hajin. This was followed by a detailed and insightful keynote address by well-known writer and poet Shahbaz Haqbari, who eloquently highlighted Dr. Hajini's exceptional contributions to education, literature and various other spheres of public life. The presidential chair was graced by Shakit Shafi, President of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari. Arshid Ahmad Lone, Senior Officer & Chief Accounts Officer of Kashmir Power Development Corporation, honoured the event as the Chief Guest. The presidium also included Chief Education Officer Bandipora and Zonal Education Officer Hajin. Engineer Farhan Manzoor Shah, Provincial Secretary of JKEEGA & Additional Secretary NIT Alumni Association and Azhar Hajini son of the late literary icon, noted broadcaster, television presenter, and Media Secretary of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari added special grace to the gathering by their distinguished presence. A major highlight of the day's observance was the highly engaging and intellectually stimulating Dr. Aziz Hajini Quiz, meticulously designed to connect the younger generation with their literary roots. Students from five different schools of Hajin displayed remarkable enthusiasm and competitive spirit. Majeed Majazi, General Secretary of the Wahab Cultural Society, donned the role of Quiz Master, steering the session with interactive flair and keeping both participants and the packed audience deeply engrossed. The first position was shared between Middle School Shahigund and MS Gulshan Abad Hajin. Second position was won by MS Parray Mohallah. While as 3rd position was won by MS Balshibal. The audience witnessed the notable presence of several prominent civil society figures, including Dr. Riyaz-ul-Hassan, President of the Wahab Cultural Society, Haji Gh Nabi Dar, Sagar Sarfaraz, Mohammad Yaqoob Parey, and Mehraj-ud-Din Parey, alongside numerous other educationists and literary enthusiasts. The program concluded with renewed pledges from local literary bodies and education circles to carry forward Dr. Hajinis mission of safeguarding the Kashmiri language and empowering the youth through education and cultural awareness.
Srinagar, Sep 12: Continuing its endeavor to promote access to justice through swift resolution of disputes, J&K Legal Services Authority, under the patronage of Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Patron-in-Chief, J&K Legal Services Authority and under the dynamic leadership of Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority and with the guidance of Justice Sanjay Dhar, Chairperson, High Court Legal Services Committee, organised the 3rd National Lok Adalat for 2026 across UT of J&K. The Lok Adalat covered a wide range of matters, including MACT claims, matrimonial disputes, cheque dishonour cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act, money recovery matters, commercial disputes and compoundable criminal offences. At Srinagar, Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, along with Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority, jointly inaugurated the 3rd National Lok Adalat at District Court Complex, Srinagar. The occasion assumed special significance as it marked the first National Lok Adalat after Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati assumed office as Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh. Upon their arrival, Haq Nawaz Zargar, Principal District & Sessions Judge (Chairperson, DLSA Srinagar), Shazia Tabasum, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, and other Judicial Officers of the district judiciary received the dignitaries. A ceremonial Guard of Honour was also accorded to the Chief Justice. Thereafter, the Chief Justice and Executive Chairman visited different Lok Adalat Benches and interacted with the Presiding Officers, members of the Benches, Advocates and litigants. They appreciated the arrangements made for the smooth conduct of the Lok Adalat and witnessed the settlement of cases at the Benches. MACT compensation cheques were also distributed among eligible claimants on the occasion, extending timely relief to the beneficiaries. As per the information received from various Legal Services Institutions across the UT of J&K, a total of 32908 cases were taken up by 163Benches during the day-long National Lok Adalat, out of which 23213 cases were amicably settled and disposed of, involving a total settlement/compensation amount of Rs. 176,22,29,397. The settled matters included Motor Accident Claims, civil and criminal matters, labour disputes, electricity and water bill disputes, land acquisition matters, family disputes, cheque dishonor cases and bank recovery matters, among others. Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, while interacting with media persons, expressed his gratitude and appreciated the efforts of the Judicial Officers, Secretaries of DLSAs, Advocates, Para Legal Volunteers, staff of the District and Tehsil Courts and the litigants for their wholehearted participation in the 3rd National Lok Adalat of the year 2026. Justice Sanjeev Kumar while welcoming the Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh emphasized the significance of Lok Adalats and observed that they provide an effective mechanism for speedy, amicable and final resolution of disputes without the burden of prolonged litigation. He urged the public to make greater use of Lok Adalats and encouraged all stakeholders to continue their efforts towards strengthening consensual dispute resolution. Justice Rajnesh Oswal, High Court of J&K and Ladakh inaugurated the National LokAdalat at District Court Complex, Jammu. On the occasion, the Principal District & Sessions Judge, Tahir Khurshid Raina received the Justice along with other judicial officers of district Jammu. Shazia Tabasum, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, informed that the 4th and final National Lok Adalat of the current calendar year is scheduled to be held on December 12, 2026. She urged litigants whose cases could not be listed or settled in the present Lok Adalat to avail themselves of the opportunity in the forthcoming National LokAdalat.
Three Jammu Kashmir Filmmakers Win Awards at Inaugural IFFJK
SRINAGAR: Three filmmakers from Jammu and Kashmir have won three of the nine awards presented at the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026, marking a significant recognition of the regions emerging cinematic talent. Baba Tasaduq Hussain received the Best Cinematography Award for the documentary Naqsh-e-Daur (The Story of Ghulam Nabi Dhar), []
The question of political consistency
The political debate in Jammu and Kashmir has once again turned towards New Delhi. But beneath the familiar arguments over who meets whom in Delhi lies a more important question: what does political engagement with the Centre actually produce for the people of Jammu and Kashmir? The question has gained renewed attention following an article published in Greater Kashmir under the headline Delhi was good enough for Bukhari. Why not Omar?, authored by Shreya Handoo, who is associated with the National Conference. The article questions Altaf Bukharis political engagement with New Delhi while drawing a comparison with Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs visits and meetings in Delhi. The comparison, however, raises a larger question of political consistency. If engagement with the Union leadership is legitimate and necessary for one political leader, why should the same engagement be treated as politically questionable when undertaken by another? Political circumstances may change, but the basic democratic standard should remain the same. The debate should therefore move beyond personalities, photographs and political labels. The important question is not simply who travelled to Delhi, who met the Prime Minister or which political party appears closer to the Centre. The real question is what a political leader takes to Delhi, what issues are placed before the Union Government, what is discussed and negotiated, and what ultimately comes back to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. This is particularly relevant when examining Altaf Bukharis approach towards New Delhi. For years, Bukhari has faced criticism for maintaining direct communication with the Union leadership. His meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Union Ministers were used by political opponents to portray him as being excessively close to the BJP. In some political rhetoric, he was even described as the BJPs B-team in Jammu and Kashmir. But political labels rarely tell the whole story. A regional political leader can disagree with the Centre on important issues and still believe that direct engagement with New Delhi is necessary. Meeting the Prime Minister does not automatically mean endorsing every decision of his government. Dialogue does not necessarily mean agreement, and engagement does not necessarily mean political surrender. The real question is what is placed on the table. Bukharis political approach became particularly visible in March 2020, when he and leaders of his party met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Issues concerning land, employment and the political future of Jammu and Kashmir were among the concerns raised during that period. The timing of those meetings was significant. They came after the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A, when uncertainty over land, employment, political representation and the future constitutional framework was deeply felt across Jammu and Kashmir. At that point, the questions of land and employment were not merely administrative matters. For many people, they were connected with economic security, political rights and concerns about possible demographic change. Any political effort aimed at addressing these concerns therefore deserved to be examined seriously. Bukhari and his political camp have maintained that their engagement with New Delhi contributed to protections relating to local employment and land. The continuation of local eligibility in recruitment, including positions from Class IV to higher services such as JKAS and JKPS, has been cited as part of that political effort. Such claims should naturally be examined against government records and actual policy decisions. Political claims should never replace evidence. At the same time, an initiative should not be dismissed simply because it was pursued by a political leader from another party. The public interest should come before political ownership. Land and employment were among the most sensitive concerns in Jammu and Kashmir after 2019. If political intervention helped protect the interests of local people, that deserves recognition. If it did not, then the political leadership should be questioned. Either way, the assessment should be based on facts and outcomes rather than party labels. This brings us to the question of political consistency. Before the elections, the National Conference often presented political distance from Delhi as an important part of its political positioning. The rhetoric sometimes suggested that the Centre was not merely an authority with which Jammu and Kashmir had to deal, but a political adversary from which distance itself carried political value. Leaders who travelled to Delhi and met the Union leadership were often criticised for being too close to the Centre or for failing to adequately represent the interests of Jammu and Kashmir. But after the elections, the political situation changed. Once the National Conference came to power, engagement with New Delhi became an important part of governance. Meetings with the Prime Minister, Union Ministers and senior officials became necessary for issues including statehood, development, finances, administration and other matters concerning Jammu and Kashmir. There is nothing wrong with such engagement. In fact, it is necessary. A government must speak to the institutions that possess the authority to make decisions affecting its people. No responsible government can simply refuse to engage with the Union Government because doing so might appear politically inconvenient. But if engagement with Delhi is necessary today, it was not inherently illegitimate when Bukhari pursued it earlier. That is the central question of political consistency. Political positions can evolve. Circumstances can change. A party in opposition may behave differently from a party in government. But the standards used to judge political opponents should not change simply because political power has changed hands. There is an important distinction between political engagement and political allegiance. A leader can engage with the Centre without becoming an extension of the Centre. A regional political party can negotiate with the Union Government while disagreeing with it on major issues. A political leader can meet the Prime Minister to put forward demands rather than to endorse every policy of his government. That is part of democratic politics. Indeed, dialogue becomes even more important when there are disagreements. The purpose of a political meeting is not necessarily to agree on everything. It is to place demands before those who have the authority to act and to keep pursuing those demands through political and constitutional means. For Jammu and Kashmir, this distinction is particularly important because several major issues ultimately require engagement with New Delhi. Restoration of statehood is perhaps the clearest example. The National Conference government has itself pursued the restoration of statehood and adopted a Cabinet resolution seeking it. There is nothing wrong with that demand. Statehood remains an important political issue for Jammu and Kashmir. But the political reality is equally clear: the Union Government has a decisive role in the restoration of statehood. Therefore, engagement with New Delhi cannot be described as politically wrong merely because it is engagement with New Delhi. If Omar Abdullah travels to Delhi to pursue statehood, there is nothing objectionable about it. But by the same democratic standard, Altaf Bukharis meetings with the Union leadership cannot automatically be described as political weakness simply because he was not in government at the time. The questions should be the same in both cases: What was demanded? What was discussed? What was negotiated? What was achieved? And, most importantly, what did the people of Jammu and Kashmir gain? That is a much healthier way of conducting political debate. For ordinary people, the political identity of the person sitting across the table matters less than the result of the conversation. A young person looking for employment wants to know whether jobs are being created and whether local opportunities are protected. A farmer wants to know whether his land and livelihood are secure. A trader wants better infrastructure and economic opportunities. A student wants better education and employment prospects. Families facing the pressure of rising prices want to know whether governments are capable of providing economic relief. These are the questions that should dominate political discourse. The people of Jammu and Kashmir do not need political theatre in place of political results. They need representation, negotiation, accountability and, above all, outcomes. That is why Bukharis Delhi engagement should not be reduced to photographs of meetings with the Prime Minister or the Home Minister. The photograph is secondary. The substance is primary. If land rights were discussed, that matters. If local employment was protected, that matters. If statehood was raised, that matters. If development, infrastructure, investment, tourism, education and the concerns of young people were placed before the Centre, those issues matter. The B-team label, therefore, does not answer the central question. What was Bukhari actually doing in Delhi? If he was using his access to the Union leadership to place the concerns of Jammu and Kashmir before the highest decision-makers, then those meetings should be judged according to their purpose and results. This does not mean Bukharis political strategy should be beyond criticism. It should not be. Every political strategy must remain open to public scrutiny. If negotiations fail, he should be questioned. If the results are inadequate, the public has every right to demand more. If promises remain unfulfilled, political leaders must answer. But there is a difference between criticising a strategy and declaring the strategy itself illegitimate. Some people may believe that protest is more effective than dialogue. Others may believe that sustained negotiation can produce better results. Both positions are legitimate in a democracy. What is difficult to justify is applying one standard to an opposition leader and another to a government leader. If Omar Abdullahs meetings in Delhi are part of his responsibilities as Chief Minister, then Bukharis meetings with the Union leadership should also be judged by the same democratic principle. Likewise, if Bukhari is criticised simply for maintaining contact with New Delhi, the same criticism should apply whenever another political leader engages with the Centre. The principle cannot change according to political convenience. Jammu and Kashmir is a Union Territory, and many important matters affecting its people remain closely connected with decisions taken by the Union Government. Employment, development, infrastructure, investment, tourism, major administrative issues and the restoration of statehood all require interaction with New Delhi. That is a political reality. The wiser debate, therefore, is not whether Jammu and Kashmir should talk to Delhi. The real debate is how Jammu and Kashmir should talk to Delhi, what it should demand and how effectively its interests are being represented. This is where Bukharis political approach deserves a serious assessment. His position has broadly favoured keeping communication channels open with the Centre and using those channels to pursue the interests of Jammu and Kashmir. Whether that approach has delivered enough is a legitimate question. Indeed, it is a question that must be asked. But the answer should come from facts, government records and measurable outcomes not from political slogans. The same principle should apply to the National Conference government. If the government meets the Prime Minister, people have the right to know what was discussed. If it seeks statehood, people have the right to know what progress has been made. If it seeks financial or administrative support, people have the right to judge what was secured. And if those efforts fail, the government should be questioned. That is democratic accountability. Unfortunately, political debate in Jammu and Kashmir often gets trapped in whataboutery. Instead of answering questions about unemployment, development, governance and representation, political actors sometimes redirect the conversation towards what another party did in the past. That does little for the public. A government should be judged by its own record. An opposition party should be judged by its own record. And every political leader should be judged by his commitments, actions and results. The people should not have to choose between competing narratives. Political parties should compete through performance. There is another reason this debate deserves attention. The political language surrounding New Delhi has changed significantly over the years. There was a time when distance from Delhi was presented as a sign of political independence. Today, engagement with Delhi is increasingly recognised as necessary for pursuing statehood, development and administrative interests. There is nothing wrong with recognising political realities. What is difficult to justify is pretending that those realities did not exist earlier. Bukharis argument has remained relatively simple: if decisions concerning Jammu and Kashmir are being taken in New Delhi, then the political leadership of Jammu and Kashmir must be willing to go there, present its case and negotiate for its people. One may disagree with this approach. But the approach itself is neither mysterious nor inherently undemocratic. Across India, Chief Ministers, opposition leaders and regional parties regularly travel to Delhi to seek funds, policy changes, infrastructure projects, special packages and political assurances. Engagement with the Centre is a normal feature of federal politics. The problem is not dialogue. The problem begins when dialogue becomes an end in itselfwhen meetings produce photographs but no progress, when promises remain unclear or when political engagement is used for publicity rather than public interest. That is why the people must ask difficult questions.What was discussed?What was promised?What was delivered?What remains pending?And who is responsible? These questions should be asked of Omar Abdullah, Altaf Bukhari and every other political leader without exception. Jammu and Kashmir cannot build its political future around a permanent suspicion of dialogue. At the same time, it cannot afford blind faith in dialogue either. Engagement must have a purpose. Negotiations must have a strategy. Representation must be persistent. And results must ultimately be measurable. This is especially important in relation to land and employment, where public concerns are deeply connected with economic security, identity and fears of demographic change. If political intervention and engagement helped secure meaningful protections for local land and employment, that should be recognised as part of the political record. If those protections remain inadequate, political leaders should explain why. Either way, the answer must come from facts and policy records. The same principle applies to statehood. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have every right to demand restoration of statehood. They also have the right to ask what political strategy is being used to achieve it and what progress has resulted from that strategy. New Delhi should neither be glorified nor demonised. It should be engaged with where engagement serves the interests of the people, challenged where necessary, negotiated with where possible and held accountable where commitments are not fulfilled. That is what serious regional politics should look like. Ultimately, the question is not whether a political leader goes to Delhi. It is what he carries with him; It is what he asks for; It is what he negotiates;And, most importantly, it is what he brings back. If Omar Abdullah goes to Delhi, let us examine what he demanded. If Altaf Bukhari goes to Delhi, let us examine what he demanded. If either succeeds, the people should acknowledge it. If either fails, the people should question it. That is not partisan politics. That is democratic accountability. Jammu and Kashmir needs leaders who can speak for its people wherever important decisions are being madewhether in Srinagar, Jammu, Poonch or New Delhi. It needs leaders who can negotiate without surrendering their political position, engage without abandoning their principles and disagree without closing the doors of communication. In the end, New Delhi is neither a place Jammu and Kashmir must fear nor a place it should blindly trust. It is a centre of political and administrative power with which the region must engage in pursuit of its interests. The responsibility of political leadership is to ensure that this engagement serves the people ;that is the real measure of representation. And perhaps that is the question Jammu and Kashmir needs to ask today not who went to Delhi, but who went there for Jammu and Kashmir, what they asked for, what they secured, and what they brought back for its people. Author, a practicing advocate at Srinagar wing of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh High Court, is District President Budgam and Media Panelist of JK Apni Party
J&K Bank bags top national honour for Best CSR Overall Practices
Srinagar, Sep 12: Reaffirming the growing reach and measurable impact of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, J&K Bank was honoured with the Best Corporate Social Responsibility Overall Practices award at the 13th National CSR Leadership Congress & Awards. The recognition acknowledges the Banks institution-wide commitment to sustainable social development through structured, need-based and impact-oriented interventions. Zonal Head (Bengaluru) Shadab Mehboob received the award on behalf of the Bank at an impressive function held on Friday at Taj MG Road, Bengaluru. The ceremony was part of a day-long CSR conference featuring eminent experts and deliberations on emerging trends and contemporary issues shaping the CSR landscape in the country. Expressing delight over the recognition, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said, For J&K Bank, CSR is not a peripheral obligation but an extension of our institutional purpose. This award validates our approach of taking meaningful, need-based interventions to underserved communities, particularly across J&K and Ladakh, while ensuring that every initiative creates measurable and lasting value. Our CSR programme is steadily evolving into a structured platform for inclusive and sustainable development, with healthcare, education, livelihood generation, disability inclusion, environmental sustainability and grassroots sports at its core. Our interventions also cover rural development, women empowerment and gender equality, promotion of art and culture, and support for armed forces veterans and their dependents. Guided by strong governance and strategic partnerships, we shall continue to expand our reach and deepen our impact in alignment with national development priorities, he added. The recognition is a reflection of the Banks sustained commitment to creating meaningful and measurable social impact through a wide range of CSR initiatives. Its interventions span critical areas including healthcare, environmental sustainability, community welfare, skill development and livelihood generation. In healthcare, the Bank has supported cardiac and breast-cancer screening programmes in underserved areas, enabling access to essential preventive healthcare for vulnerable communities. Its environmental initiatives, including solar-powered sanitation facilities, plantation drives and waste-management interventions, demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainable development. The Bank has also undertaken community-focused initiatives such as providing affordable meals to attendants of patients at hospitals, while promoting skill development and livelihood opportunities to strengthen economic empowerment at the grassroots level. Collectively, these initiatives underline the Banks philosophy of going beyond conventional philanthropy to create sustainable and inclusive value for communities, while contributing meaningfully to the social and environmental well-being of the region. The National Awards for Excellence in CSR & Sustainability recognise organisations that have embedded social responsibility and sustainability into their institutional strategies and created demonstrable benefits for communities and the environment.
IFFJK: J&K filmmakers bag three of nine awards
Srinagar, Sep 12: In a significant recognition of the creative talent emerging from Jammu and Kashmir, three filmmakers from Jammu and Kashmir have secured three prestigious awards out of the nine presented at the First International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026. The achievement marks a proud moment for the regions growing filmmaking community, with Kashmiri filmmakers making their presence felt on a platform that brought together acclaimed filmmakers, artists, technicians, industry professionals and cinema enthusiasts from across India and around the world. Baba Tasaduq Hussain won the Best Cinematography Award for the documentary Naqsh-e-Daur (The Story of Ghulam Nabi Dhar), earning appreciation for its visual storytelling and cinematic treatment. The Best Emerging Filmmaker Award was conferred on Askini: The Guiding Darkness, directed by Ajit Singh Bhasin, recognising the films distinctive cinematic voice and promising creative approach. Adding another major honour to the regions tally, filmmaker Kapil Mattos Tasrufdar The Jinns of Kashmir won the Best Film from Jammu & Kashmir Select category, celebrating a work that draws upon the regions distinctive cultural and storytelling traditions. The three awards, spanning cinematography, emerging filmmaking and the best film from J&K, underline the diversity and depth of cinematic talent present in the region. During the festival, the selected films by local filmmakers like Batt Koch (The Lost Lane), directed by Siddarth Koul and Ankit Wali; Tasrufdaar (Djinns of Kashmir), directed by Kapil Mattoo; and Naqsh-e-Daur (The Story of Ghulam Nabi Dhar), directed by Baba Tassaduq Hussain received wider appreciation from the audiences. Batt Koch, was screened as closing film of the festival received much appreciation from renowned filmmaker Ramesh Sippy and audiences. Love in veitnam a movie by Rahat shah kazmi a jammu and kashmir based filmmaker was also screened during the festival and was widely appreciated. The recognition is particularly significant as the inaugural IFFJK has provided filmmakers from Jammu and Kashmir with an international platform to present their work alongside films from different parts of country and the world. The success of the three films demonstrates the festivals role in creating meaningful opportunities for local storytellers to connect with wider audiences, industry professionals and the global cinematic community. The strong showing of J&K filmmakers also reflects the evolving creative landscape of the Union Territory, where filmmakers are increasingly exploring local histories, folklore, landscapes, contemporary realities and cultural narratives through diverse cinematic forms. The achievement is expected to further encourage young filmmakers and emerging artists from the region to pursue their creative ambitions and tell stories rooted in the unique experiences, heritage and cultural identity of Jammu and Kashmir. The First International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir, organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), has thus emerged as an important platform not only for celebrating global cinema but also for placing the creative voices of J&K before a wider national and international audience.
Kashmir can become Indias film festival destination: AR Rahman
Srinagar, Sep 12: Renowned music composer A R Rahman on Saturday lauded the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK), saying Kashmir has the potential to become one of Indias major destinations for international cinema and filmmakers. Rahman, who is currently in Srinagar to shoot an advertisement, was speaking to media persons at the Royal Springs Golf Course. Kashmir is a beautiful place, so having an international film festival here is commendable. People can see the beauty and thevibrationof Kashmir, he said. The music composer expressed hope that the festival would grow into a major international event and attract visitors from across the world. Talking about the film festival, it is a great opening. I wish it grows and becomes such a great experience. We go to Amsterdam and London for film festivals. I wish Kashmir becomes a festival place of India, he said. Describing Kashmir as an inspiration, Rahman said he enjoyed his current visit to the valley while shooting for an advertisement. Kashmir is an inspiration. It is beautiful and uncluttered. I was here to shoot an advertisement, and I enjoyed doing it, he said. The Oscar-winning composer also said he was planning to return to Kashmir for a live performance. Rahman urged filmmakers to return to Kashmir and showcase the regions natural beauty and peaceful environment through cinema. I want filmmakers to come back and shoot in Kashmir. They must show the beauty and peace in nature as a positive thing rather than anything about violence and the past. The past is past, but the future is bright, he said. Referring to Kashmirs scenic beauty, Rahman also broke into the popular song Yeh Haseen Wadiyan, Yeh Khula Aasman. He further backed greater collaboration between Bollywood musicians and Kashmiri folk artistes, saying the region has immense potential in traditional and folk music. Recalling his association with the film Rockstar, Rahman said he had earlier travelled to Kashmir and recorded women singing traditional folk songs, some of which were later used in the film.
Invisible soot choking Kashmirs pristine air
Srinagar, Sep 12: Kashmirs mountain air may look pristine against its snow peaks and green slopes, but an invisible layer of soot is telling a different story,rathersetting alarm bells ringing. A 2025 study on carbonaceous aerosols in the north-western Himalayahasdetected black carbon at multiple locations across the Kashmir Valley, with researchers finding fossil-fuel combustion to be thedominant source of the pollutant. Published in the Indian Journal of Pure & Applied Physics, the study 'Variability of Carbonaceous Aerosols in Two Distinct Climatic Zones of the North-Western Himalaya (India)' - an expedition during summer 2022 examined black carbon and other carbonaceous aerosols at Srinagar, Qazigund, Pahalgam and Gulmarg. The researchers recorded average black carbon concentrations of 6.36 micrograms per cubic metre (g/m) at Gulmarg, 6.18 g/m at Qazigund, 6.10 g/m at Srinagar and 3.77 g/m at Pahalgam during the JuneJuly 2022 campaign. Fossil-fuel sources contributed 8194 per cent of black carbon at the Kashmir Valley sites, while biomass burning accounted for 619 per cent, the study found. The soot burden is not confined to Kashmirs main urban centre. Black carbon was detected at locations ranging from Srinagar to the high-altitude landscape of Gulmarg and the southern Valley sites of Qazigund and Pahalgam. It saidthatGulmarg recorded the highest average concentration among the four monitored Kashmir locations, at 6.36 g/m, despite being a high-altitude tourist destination. The figures, however, represent measurements from individual monitoring locations and should not be interpreted as annual black-carbon emissions for entire districts. Qazigund and Pahalgam are in Anantnag district, and Gulmarg is in Baramulla district, but their readings cannot be treated as district-wide averages, the study notes. A six-year study published in Environmental Pollution in 2022, based on observations from Srinagar between 2012 and 2017, reported a mean annual black-carbon concentration of 6.06 g/m. The study recorded an average of 8.60 g/m during winter and 8.31 g/m during autumn, while November recorded 13.88 g/m and December 13.4 g/m. The researchers linked the winter accumulation to temperature inversions, a shallow atmospheric boundary layer and stagnant conditions that restrict pollutant dispersion. The same study found that fossil-fuel combustion contributed 6070 per cent of Srinagars black carbon, while biomass burning became a substantially larger contributor during autumn and winter. Climate expert and environmentalist Dr Touseef Ahmad Bhat said the wider climate implications of such environmental changes could no longer be ignored. Climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is happening now, Dr Bhat told Rising Kashmir. Known for his environmental conservation work and popularly referred to as Kashmirs TreeMan, DrBhat also stressed the need to treat ecological protection as part of climate resilience. Black carbon is particularly important in the Himalayan context because it absorbs sunlight and contributes to atmospheric warming. When deposited on snow and ice, the dark particles can reduce surface reflectivity and increase solar absorption, potentially accelerating snow and glacier melt, Dr Bhat said. For Kashmir, where snow and glaciers are closely linked to water availability and ecosystem stability, the issue therefore extends well beyond conventional urban air pollution. Earlier Srinagar researchhadalso pointed to regional atmospheric transport as an additional factor, indicating that part of the Valleys black-carbon burden may originate outside the region. What remains missing is a comprehensive district-wise black-carbon emissions inventory for Jammu and Kashmir, quantifying annual emissions and separating contributions from transport, residential heating, biomass burning, industry and other sources. The 2025 study provides an important snapshot of the Valleys soot burden, while older Srinagar observations demonstrate how sharply concentrations can rise during autumn and winter. From Srinagars urban landscape to Gulmargs mountains, the invisible pollutant is now firmly on the Valleys environmental radar.
BRICS condemns Pahalgam terror attack in strongest terms; urges global action
Srinagar, Sep 12: BRICS countries have strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, 2025, in which 26 people were killed and many others injured, while reaffirming their commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In a strong message against terrorism, the grouping called for zero tolerance towards terror and stressed that those involved in terrorist activities and their support must be held accountable and brought to justice in accordance with relevant national and international law. We express strong condemnation of any acts of terrorism as criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, whenever, wherever and by whomsoever committed. We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, during which 26 people were killed and many more injured, an official statement said. BRICS reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism, specifically highlighting the need to tackle the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens. We reaffirm our commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens, it said. The grouping also stressed that terrorism must not be linked to any particular religion, nationality, civilisation or ethnic group, while calling for accountability of all those involved in terrorist activities and their support. We reiterate that terrorism should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group and that all those involved in terrorist activities and their support must be held accountable and brought to justice in accordance with relevant national and international law, the statement said. BRICS further urged the international community to maintain zero tolerance towards terrorism and rejected what it described as double standards in countering the global threat. We urge to ensure zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering terrorism, it said. The grouping also underlined the primary responsibility of States in combating terrorism and said global counter-terrorism efforts must remain consistent with international law. We emphasise the primary responsibility of States in combating terrorism and that global efforts to prevent and counter terrorist threats must fully comply with their obligations under international law, including the Charter of the UN, in particular the purposes and principles thereof, and relevant international conventions and protocols, in particular international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, as applicable, the statement said. BRICS welcomed the activities of its Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) and its five Subgroups, which function under the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan and the CTWG Position Paper. We welcome the activities of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) and its five Subgroups based upon the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan and the CTWG Position Paper. We look forward to further deepening counter-terrorism cooperation, it said. The grouping also called for an early conclusion and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the United Nations framework. We call for an expeditious finalisation and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN framework. We call for concerted actions against all UN-designated terrorists and terrorist entities, the statement said. BRICS further highlighted the importance of countering extremism and radicalisation, particularly among younger generations, and called for greater cooperation among member countries and their competent authorities. We also emphasise the importance of countering extremism and radicalisation specially among the younger generations, and further stress the need to enhance cooperation among the BRICS countries and their competent authorities, including through sharing of best practices, it said. The strong wording of the statement places the Pahalgam attack within a broader BRICS commitment to combating terrorism, while highlighting cross-border movement of terrorists, terror financing, safe havens and radicalisation as key areas requiring coordinated international action.
MP Ruhullah renews resignation call, hints at new political move
Ganderbal, Sep 12: MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday renewed his call for resignation and stepped up his criticism of the National Conference leadership, questioning the partys account of Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs decision to contest the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. He also hinted at a fresh political move, saying his future course would become clear after November 3. Speaking to reporters in Ganderbal, Agha Ruhullah questioned claims by Health Minister Sakeena Itoo that Omar Abdullah was initially unwilling to contest the 2024 Assembly elections and was persuaded or pressured by the party to enter the electoral fray. Ruhullah said that if Omar had taken a principled decision not to contest the election, he should have remained firm despite any pressure. If it was their principled position, then why did they abandon that position under someones pressure? Ruhullah said. He questioned the credibility of a leader who changes a principled stand under pressure, saying it becomes difficult to trust that such a person would not change another position in the future under similar circumstances. Leadership is about standing by your principles. Leadership means remaining committed to your ideology and convictions, he said. Ruhullah claimed he had been a firsthand witness to the partys proceedings and maintained that there was no major pressure from the National Conference on Omar Abdullah to change his decision regarding the elections. I was directly involved in all these matters and in all the partys proceedings. There was no major pressure from the party telling them to change their decision, he said. He further argued that Omar could have resisted any alleged pressure or chosen another person for the Chief Ministers post, including someone from outside the Abdullah family. He could have demonstrated strong leadership, but there was a test and there was an attraction, and he could not resist that attraction, Ruhullah said. Referring to his own political plans, Ruhullah said the match that he intends to play politically would become clear after November 3. If you want to play a match for me or raise slogans in my favour, God willing, we will play that match soon. The political match that we have to play will take place in the coming period. After November 3, you will understand exactly which match I am talking about, he said. Ruhullah also spoke about freeing himself from what he described as chains, saying that after November 3 he would sit with the people, particularly the youth, to decide the future course collectively. Whether a party should be formed or not, what should be done and how we should move forwardall these decisions will be taken collectively, he said, adding that the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the youth, would be part of the decision-making process.
Leh police log 14 NDPS cases, crack Rs 8L burglary
Leh Sep 12:- Leh Police registered 14 NDPS cases in the first eight months of 2026, arresting 24 people, while also cracking a major burglary involving gold, silver jewellery and precious stones, with suspects traced to Pattan in Baramulla, SSP Leh Piyush Fulzele said. Addressing a press conference, Piyush Fulzele said the anti-narcotics crackdown has remained a key focus of Leh Police, with three alleged drug peddlers identified for preventive detention under the PITNDPS Act, 1988. He said one of the detainees is currently lodged in District Jail. At the same time, police have intensified action against property crimes, recovering stolen jewellery and other valuables worth around 8 lakh in the latest burglary case reported on September 4. The case came to light after Padma Yankchan, a resident of Ighu, approached police and reported that unidentified persons had broken into her house during the night by breaking through the floor and stolen gold and silver jewellery, including necklaces, gemstones and other ornaments. Police registered a case under relevant provisions of the BNS and deployed technical as well as human intelligence to trace the suspects. The investigation eventually led officers to Pattan in Baramulla, following which a Leh Police team was sent to Kashmir and conducted raids in a remote area. The accused were apprehended and subsequently brought to Leh on transit remand. Police recovered jewellery and other stolen property valued at approximately 8 lakh. The investigation is now being expanded to determine whether the accused have links with previous burglary cases in Ladakh, including thefts reported from monasteries. Fulzele said police are examining a suspected pattern in which some persons visiting Ladakh for small-scale business allegedly identify houses and monasteries that remain closed or have limited security and subsequently pass information to associates who return to carry out thefts.
Father, 4-year-old son killed in Budgam accident
Budgam, Sep 12 : A 29-year-old man and his four-year-old son were killed, while his wife sustained critical injuries after the motorcycle carrying the family collided with a Swift car at Soibugh in central Kashmirs Budgam district on Saturday, officials said. The deceased were identified as Naseer Ahmad Mir, son of Ghulam Hassan Mir, and his four-year-old son Hadi, both residents of Goon Ahmadpora. According to officials, the family was travelling on a motorcycle when it collided with a Swift car at Soibugh. The collision resulted in serious injuries to all three family members travelling on the motorcycle. Naseer Ahmad Mir and his minor son Hadi died on the spot due to the injuries sustained in the accident, a police official said. Naseers wife, Dilshada Akhter, also suffered critical injuries in the collision. She was initially provided medical attention before being shifted to JVC Hospital, Srinagar, for further treatment. A police official said Dilshadas condition is currently stable and she remains under treatment at the hospital. Both Naseer and his son died on the spot. The driver of the vehicle has been arrested and the vehicle has been seized, the official said. Following the accident, police initiated proceedings and took the vehicle involved in the collision into custody. The driver of the Swift car was arrested in connection with the incident, officials said. Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) regarding the accident and initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the collision. Officials said further investigation into the case is underway.
Ladakh launches four new policing, tourist safety initiatives
Leh, Sep 12: Ladakh Admin has launched four new initiatives aimed at strengthening law enforcement, improving road safety and enhancing assistance for tourists and residents across the Union Territory. The initiatives were inaugurated as part of efforts to modernise policing and provide more responsive services, particularly in view of Ladakhs challenging terrain and growing tourist movement. Among the key initiatives is the Jullay 2.0 Tourist Assistance App, which will provide real-time safety alerts, weather updates, road-condition information and live notifications. The application will also enable users to report incidents, submit online police complaints and seek emergency assistance. The Ladakh Administration has also introduced 20 e-Challan devices to digitise traffic enforcement. The move is expected to improve transparency in traffic regulation while strengthening road-safety measures. In another significant step, five Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) beats have been established to facilitate rapid emergency response through GPS-enabled systems. The police have additionally set up Tourist Facilitation Centres at remote locations, including North Pulu and Serchu, to provide on-ground assistance and support to visitors travelling through these areas. Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said the initiatives reflect the administrations commitment to responsive, transparent and people-centric policing tailored to the Union Territorys geographical conditions. He said the integration of technology, infrastructure and trained manpower would help create a safer environment for both residents and visitors to Ladakh.
Clear Gulmarg or pay the cost: Authority issues cleanup order
Srinagar, Sept 12: The Tourism Development Authority Gulmarg has ordered the removal of hazardous, abandoned and unsightly materials from public places across Gulmarg, citing safety concerns and the need to maintain the resorts cleanliness and appearance. In a circular issued on Friday, the authority directed all concerned persons, agencies and unit holders to clear such material within one week. The order covers old and damaged signboards, bricks, stones, gravel, temporary fencing, benches, tools and equipment, broken dustbins and other structures or material that are obstructive, abandoned or pose a risk to the public. The authority has specifically called for the Gulmarg Bowl and other public areas to be cleared and maintained in a clean, safe and aesthetically acceptable condition. The circular also makes it clear that no material can be stored or placed in public areas without prior permission from the competent authority. Failure to comply within the stipulated period will allow the Gulmarg Development Authority to remove the material without further notice. The cost of such removal will be recovered from the concerned person, agency or unit, while the authority will not be responsible for any loss or damage to the material during the process. The authority has further directed its enforcement wing to prepare a complete inventory of such items within seven days and submit it for necessary action.
NHM standoff deepens as govt fails to address demands
Srinagar, Sep 12: More than 12,000 National Health Mission (NHM) employees across J&K continued their protest on Saturday as part of their extended 72-hour strike over long-pending demands, including a comprehensive job policy, salary revision and social-security benefits. The Jammu & Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA) UT-Level Coordination Committee commenced the 72-hour strike on September 9, with employees staging protests at district headquarters across Jammu and Kashmir. Amid the ongoing strike, the Health Department Kashmir has directed all Medical Superintendents, Block Medical Officers and heads of institutions under its administrative control to ensure the presence of all available regular staff in hospitals. DHSK directed all Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) and heads of institutions to ensure that adequate regular staff remains available on duty in all critical and patient-care areas. Essential services including OPD, IPD, Emergency, Labour Room, OT, diagnostics, pharmacy and other patient-care services are maintained without interruption, the order said. The Directorate further directed that duty rosters be suitably adjusted wherever required to ensure adequate manpower during the strike period. It said patient care and essential health services should not suffer due to the absence of NHM staff. Any shortage of manpower adversely affecting essential services shall be brought to the notice of this Directorate immediately for appropriate intervention, it said. Meanwhile, commenting on the NHM employees strike, Health Minister Sakeena Itoo said she had met the employees several times and maintained that healthcare workers posted in sensitive and critical-care areas should not leave their duties to participate in protests. She said the government had not rejected their demands and assured that efforts were being made to address the issues that fall within the governments jurisdiction, while other matters had already been taken up with the Government of India. I have already taken up the matter with the Union Health Minister in a conference, and this was my main point. We have also sent the proposal to the Government of India, she said. We are examining the matter. We request them to resume their duties. The government is working on their issues, she added. However, JKNHMEA Chief Spokesperson Abdul Rauoof said NHM employees had been protesting for their rights for a long time and remained an important component of the healthcare delivery system. He said NHM employees continued to perform their duties in hospitals despite several unresolved issues concerning their service conditions and future. The NHM employees have been protesting for their rights for a long time. They are an important component of the healthcare delivery system and continue to perform their duties in hospitals, Rauoof said. He said the association was demanding a secure job policy, salary revision, retirement benefits and social-security measures to provide financial and social protection to employees and their families. Rauoof said the association had repeatedly raised these issues through appropriate forums and sought a meaningful and time-bound resolution from the government. Despite repeatedly raising these issues, the government has failed to resolve them and has only given assurances, he said. The latest agitation comes five months after a 48-hour strike held by NHM employees in April over similar demands. The protest was called off on April 2 after representatives met Health Minister Sakina Itoo, who had assured them that their grievances would be addressed.
Hailstorm hits Kashmir paddy crop, farmers seek relief
Srinagar, Sep 12 : Heavy rainfall accompanied by hailstorms during the intervening night of Friday and Saturday has caused extensive damage to standing paddy crops in several parts of central and north Kashmir, leaving farmers facing the prospect of major financial losses just days ahead of the harvesting season. The hailstorm reportedly affected paddy fields in several villages of Beerwah sub-division in Budgam district, including Chewdara, Beerwah, Ohangam, Rathsun and Arwah. Farmers in the affected areas said the crop had reached the maturity stage and was expected to be harvested within the next few days. Similar damage has been reported from several areas of Ganderbal district, including Malikpora, Pati Devpora, Gogjigund, Kurag and Sehpora, where farmers said standing paddy crops were hit by the intense hail and rainfall. In parts of north Kashmirs Baramulla district, farmers from Tangmarg and Kunzer areas have also reported damage to agricultural fields following the sudden deterioration in weather conditions. The affected farmers said the damage had come at a critical time when they had already invested significant amounts of money and labour in raising the crop. For many farming families, the paddy harvest is an important source of annual income, and the destruction of the standing crop has triggered concerns about how they will recover the money spent on seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, labour and other agricultural inputs. Nadeem Ahmad Dar, a resident of Chewdara village, said the hailstorm had completely damaged his paddy fields at a time when the crop was almost ready for harvesting. Our paddy fields have been completely damaged due to the heavy hailstorm. We had already spent a lot of money on cultivation and were expecting to benefit from the crop. The rice plants were ready for harvesting and we were planning to harvest them within a few days. But the hailstorm has completely damaged our fields, Dar said. He said agriculture was the main source of livelihood for his family and that the sudden crop loss had left them in a difficult situation. We are farmers and completely depend on agricultural activities. Our vegetable and paddy crops have also been damaged. We have no other option now. We request the government to identify all the affected farmers and provide them adequate compensation, he said. Another affected farmer, Mohammad Akbar Dev, said the damage had wiped out months of hard work and investment. My paddy fields have been completely damaged due to the heavy rainfall and hailstorm. More than 10 members of my family are dependent on agriculture. I have lost everything. I worked in the paddy fields every day so that we could benefit from the crop. Now, all my hard work and the money I invested in the paddy fields have been lost due to the hailstorm, Dev said. Dev appealed to the government to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the losses and ensure that every affected farmer was identified. He also demanded relief for farmers who had taken loans to finance agricultural activities. The government should identify all the farmers who have suffered losses due to the hailstorm. The KCC loans of the affected farmers should also be waived so that farming families can manage the situation, he said. Farmers in the affected areas said an early assessment was necessary as the extent of damage could increase if the affected crop deteriorated further. They urged the Agriculture Department and district administration to send field teams to the affected villages to assess the losses and prepare a detailed report. Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah said farmers who had insured their maize and paddy crops would be eligible for compensation under the crop insurance scheme. The affected farmers who have insured their maize and paddy crops need to raise their claims through the online mode. They can also contact the concerned agricultural officials in their respective areas, who will guide them in filing the claims within 48 hours so that they can receive compensation, Shah said. He advised insured farmers to approach the concerned Agriculture Department officials for assistance in filing their claims within the stipulated period. The recent damage has once again highlighted the vulnerability of farmers to sudden weather events, particularly during the crucial stages of crop maturity and harvesting.
Theres a strange kind of political theatre playing out in Kashmir these days. Its loud, its crowded, and everyone on stage is having the time of their lives, but completely oblivious to the audience sitting out in the cold. Weve built a political culture where a stray remark can dominate the news cycle for weeks, while the quiet, grinding struggles of everyday life barely get a passing glance. For months, the Valleys public conversation has been hijacked by controversies that generate a mountain of heat and zero solutions. Unemployment, crushing electricity bills and shrinking household incomes have no magnetic pull of a good, provocative soundbite. Instead, our attention gets repeatedly hooked by symbolic turf wars that have a shelf life of about three days or a week. Take Mehbooba Muftis Banta Hai remark, which sparked endless loops of TV studio shouting matches and social media spats. Before that dust had even settled, we were plunged into the surreal saga of the Pyjama Row, triggered by MLA Tanvir Sadiqs comment on Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs death anniversary. A remark about a piece of clothing turned into an existential political showdown in which it was projected that the pyjama held the secret to our collective destiny. The BJP, naturally, jumped at the chance to steal the show, even making a questionable effigy of MLA Tanvir Sadiq. But the irony was hard to miss. Not long ago, voices from that same party were calling the martyrs of July 13 traitors, stabbing right at the heart of Kashmiri memory. Im not equating the two remarks, but Im pointing out how convenient political outrage really is. Outrage isnt a moral compass anymore but rather a strategy and a tool efficiently used by political opponents against each other. Meanwhile, the Congress party hasnt lagged behind in this theatre either. While people waited for leadership on governance, Congress found the energy to pick a fight with its alliance partner, the National Conference, over singing every stanza of Vande Mataram. The NC shot back by pointing out that Congress chief ministers in other states do it all the time. It wasnt a deep debate about secularism or nationalism but a masterclass in how easily political principles bend when votes are on the line. Now put it all together and you see a troubling pattern. Outrage has become a professional sport here. Every sentence is sliced open, looking for hidden malice, and every quote is weaponised as a loyalty test. We spend precious intellectual energy debating the genealogy of buzzwords and the symbolism of wardrobes, while the people facing the worst economic squeezes are left cheering for arguments that give them nothing back. The ordinary citizen is nowhere to be found in this script. He doesnt sit on prime-time panels, feature in party press releases or become a social media sensation. For him, politics isnt a battle of narratives but a daily survival test. He worries about his electricity bill, whether the water supply will hold out, how to pay for his kids education and whether his small shop will survive another month. Our young graduate waits years for a door that never opens. A shopkeeper watches his customer base shrink. A household quietly cuts back on meals because incomes refuse to keep pace with reality. These are the things that actually define life, yet they rarely touch the legislative agenda. Why? Because misery doesnt go viral. Theres no prime-time spectacle in an unpaid power bill or a tired, jobless or underpaid graduate. This is where both those in power and those in opposition fail us. Governments are supposed to translate authority into tangible relief, while oppositions are supposed to offer substance, not just a louder megaphone for grievances. None of this means history, identity and culture dont matter in Kashmir. They matter deeply. Our politics is stitched together from memory and belonging. But theres a massive gap between using history to make sense of today and getting so drunk on its symbols that we completely abandon the present. One is a calling; the other is a distraction. A mature society has to hold both truths. History matters, but so does a monthly paycheck. Identity is vital, but so are a reliable power grid, clean water and decent healthcare. You dont have to choose between them, but you do have to know what comes first. You cant pay an electricity bill with outrage. You cant create jobs with a TV debate. And you certainly cant build an economy by turning every single disagreement into an existential war. The Pajama Row will blow over, just like Banta Hai did. Another controversy will take its place, another phrase will get blown out of proportion, and the wheel will spin again. The outrage will peak, the camps will mobilise and, eventually, everyone will move on. But the electricity bill will still be sitting on the table. The jobless graduate will still be waiting. The struggling businessman will still be counting losses. Thats the difference between a controversy and an actual problem. Controversies expire. Real problems dont. Maybe its time our political class changed the subject from what sounds good to what actually matters. Attention is power, and when we spend all our energy on symbolic theatre, politics loses touch with the people its supposed to serve. Kashmir doesnt need another manufactured crisis. It needs leaders who can tell the difference between whats loud and whats life-changing. At the end of the day, a pyjama is just a piece of fabric. Its the human being wearing it who deserves our attention. And that is the one thing our politics keeps forgetting: the Valley deserves a politics worthy of its people, not just its headlines. (The Author can be reached at Email: azharsahussain@gmail.com )
Valley of Frames: Inside the Inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir
For decades, the cinematic identity of Jammu and Kashmir existed almost exclusively on the other side of the lens. The snow-swept meadows of Gulmarg, the willow-fringed waters of Dal Lake, and the undulating foothills of the Tawi basin served as picturesque backdrops for classic Indian romances, musical interludes, and high-stakes drama. Yet the indigenous creative voice remained largely peripherala location entry on a production call sheet rather than an active seat at the global cinematic table. The recently concluded inaugural edition of the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK), organized by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) in collaboration with national film bodies, dismantled that long-standing dynamic. Guided by the evocative theme Rang-e-Cinema (Colours of Cinema), the four-day festival brought together an ambitious curation of international features, documentaries, shorts, and technical masterclasses. Crucially, IFFJK broke away from the traditional format of an insular, single-venue gathering. By distributing its programming across a tripartite circuitthe political and cultural nerve center of Srinagar, the winter capital of Jammu, and the high-altitude alpine resort of Gulmargthe festival established a decentralized, inclusive model that linked the diverse geographies and creative communities of the Union Territory while sketching a blueprint for a modern, self-sustaining regional film ecosystem. The festival arrived with substantial institutional weight, drawing an overwhelming global response during its initial call for entries. The selection committee evaluated more than 1,100 submissions originating from over 80 countries, arriving at a final official slate of 135 films representing more than 40 nations. India anchored the lineup with 64 selections, complemented by robust international showcases led by France with 13 films and Iran with eight, alongside notable works from Argentina, Spain, Brazil, Germany, Russia, Sweden, South Korea, and the United States. The programming was segmented into four structured verticals: the International Competition for contemporary world cinema, the Bharat Panorama celebrating regional Indian masterpieces, a specialized Cinema of the World showcase, and a dedicated Jammu and Kashmir Select category designed to highlight local independent storytellers. The festival backed its curatorial ambition with one of the most generous prize structures on the Indian festival circuit, totaling 96 lakh across nine categories. The top accolade for Best Feature Film carried a purse of 25 lakh, while Best Director and Best Debut Director were awarded 15 lakh each, alongside 10 lakh for Best Film in the J&K Select section and 8 lakh for leading performance categories. Evaluating these works was a high-caliber international jury featuring Oscar and BAFTA-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty, legendary cinematographer-director Santosh Sivan, veteran German film programmer Dorothee Wenner, international media executive Keiko Bang, and National Award-winning filmmaker Himansu Sekhar Khatua. Rather than restricting guests and audiences to a secluded enclave, the festival's organizational architecture was deliberately distributed across three distinct administrative nodes. Srinagar served as the institutional and artistic epicenter. Perched along the banks of Dal Lake, the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) hosted the formal opening and closing galas, welcoming regional dignitaries, international delegates, and prominent figures from the Indian film industry. Simultaneously, the INOX PVR multiplex complex accommodated continuous, packed theatrical screenings where local youth, cinema students, and visiting filmmakers engaged with complex world cinema on state-of-the-art projection systems. One of the most resonant experiential activations was the open-air floating cinema erected directly on the waters of Dal Lake, where attendees on shikaras watched classic cinema set against the twilight silhouette of the Zabarwan range. The academic core of the Srinagar leg took shape through rigorous masterclasses and panels held at SKICC. Craft masters such as Anil Mehta led sessions on deconstructing visual subtext and framing without expository dialogue, while parallel workshops unpacked the technical rhythm of editing and the complexities of immersive sound design in contemporary cinema. To ensure the festival did not become an insular Valley-centric spectacle, the operational matrix extended concurrently into Jammu. Regional film initiatives in the past have occasionally faced criticism for administrative centralism; IFFJK deliberately mitigated this by transforming Jammu into an equal exhibition and dialogue partner. The Wave Cinema complex was activated to screen selections from the Bharat Panorama, world shorts, and independent features. This allowed Jammus substantial student body, cultural practitioners, and independent Dogri-language filmmakers direct access to the festivals creative momentum without having to navigate cross-regional travel logistics. The third pillar of the execution model took place at an elevation of 8,690 feet in the alpine basin of Gulmarg. Centered around the Gulmarg Convention Centre and surrounding venues, this leg served a dual purpose: high-altitude exhibition and high-level industrial familiarization. Beyond exhibition, the Gulmarg leg operated as an immersive retreat for visiting domestic and foreign studio executives, executive producers, and line producers. It provided these decision-makers with a tangible look at the Pir Panjal ranges production infrastructure, contemporary winter hospitality capacities, and diverse lighting conditions, positioning the area as a viable, cost-effective alternative to traditional European alpine shooting locations. The execution of IFFJK yielded several tangible breakthroughs. First, it achieved a vital narrative reclaim. For decades, global and domestic screens have often viewed Kashmir through a binary lenseither as an idealized escapist paradise or through the narrow prism of conflict. Hosting works from Lebanon, Jordan, Iran, France, and Latin America positioned the region as an intellectually curious, sophisticated space capable of engaging with nuanced cinematic art. Second, the festival demonstrated the vitality of public film culture. Following years of limited theatrical exposure and the historic closure of single screens, the heavy footfall across Srinagar and Jammu proved that communal cinema-going remains deeply valued by regional audiences. Third, it built an immediate bridge between aspiring regional talent and the upper echelons of global cinema craft, giving young Kashmiri and Dogri storytellers access to the mentorship of master technicians. Finally, the inter-departmental synergy between DIPR, Tourism, Floriculture, and district administrations demonstrated that the Union Territory possesses the logistics, security management, and administrative capability required to mount complex international events smoothly. Yet, the success of an inaugural film festival is ultimately defined by whether it can transition from an episodic public relations event into a permanent, self-sustaining cultural institution. The enthusiasm generated during the four days of IFFJK cannot be allowed to dissipate until the next festival cycle. To build upon this foundation, state stakeholders, industry bodies, and creative communities should focus on five strategic areas moving forward: First, future editions must institutionalize a dedicated Film Bazaar and Co-Production Market. While masterclasses and screenings inspire audiences, industry longevity requires economic transactions. IFFJK must establish an industry market modeled on international platforms, where regional screenwriters from Jammu and Kashmir can pitch projects directly to domestic studios, global streaming platforms, and independent financiers. Integrating a competitive project incubation laboffering script doctoring and development seed grantswould ensure that indigenous stories move from conceptual treatments into funded production pipelines. Second, the Union Territory must follow through on creating a digitized J&K Film Talent and Crew Registry. A frequent challenge for productions coming to shoot in the region has been the reliance on bringing entire below-the-line crews from Mumbai or Delhi. The DIPR and local trade bodies should launch a centralized, verified digital portal detailing local gaffers, grips, sound recordists, art directors, actors, makeup artists, and line managers. Establishing mandatory or incentivized minimum quotas for hiring registered local crew members on incoming productions would turn film tourism directly into sustainable, year-round creative employment. Third, the administrative mechanism governing film production must be streamlined through an empowered, statutory J&K Film Commission. Although the region's film policy outlines single-window clearance, production units often navigate overlapping jurisdictions between municipal, forest, heritage, and security departments. Consolidating all location permits, transparent rate cards, drone flight permissions, and standardized security clearances into a single digital window with legally mandated turnaround timelines will dramatically lower the barrier of entry for international and independent productions. Fourth, regional authorities should sustain cinema literacy and training throughout the calendar year rather than confining it to the festival week. The Department of Culture and DIPR could partner with premier national institutions such as the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and the Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRFTI) to deliver certified, intensive short courses in screenwriting, cinematography, sound design, and color grading across Jammu and Srinagar. Furthermore, institutionalizing monthly university film clubs would maintain an active, critical community of young cinephiles. Finally, the festival must secure a stable calendar slot and pursue international accreditation. To attract high-profile world and Asian premieres, IFFJK needs a fixed date on the global cinema circuit, avoiding clashes with major international events. Over time, the festival administration should work toward accreditation from the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). Securing recognized festival status will solidify Jammu and Kashmirs standing on the international cinematic itinerary, placing it alongside respected regional events like the Busan International Film Festival and the International Film Festival of India. The inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir was more than a celebratory assembly of artists; it was a cultural pivot. By relighting auditoriums, casting projected beams across the waters of Dal Lake, and taking world cinema into the mountain expanses of Gulmarg, the festival demonstrated that the region is ready to step beyond being an idyllic backdrop in someone else's movie. Jammu and Kashmir has stepped forward to claim its rightful place as an author of its own stories, an active patron of world cinema, and a vibrant host to the global filmmaking community. (The Author is JKAS)
AIs Next Big Leap: From Answers to Discovery
Every discovery begins with a question that does not have a clear answer. A scientist notices something unusual, a mathematician sees a problem from a new angle, or a researcher finds a pattern hidden in years of information. Human curiosity has expanded knowledge. Now, artificial intelligence is entering that process, not simply as a system that answers questions, but as a tool that can help researchers explore possibilities. Picture a researcher looking through information from a study. Most of it may seem routine, but an AI system notices a small pattern worth exploring. It suggests possible explanations, giving the researcher a direction. The information can then be examined carefully, compared with existing knowledge and studied further. The result may confirm what is known, reveal something unexpected, or lead to a new question. AI can widen possibilities for discovery while human curiosity guides the search. This is the emerging idea behind AI for scientific discovery. Scientists are exploring systems that analyse large collections of data, identify patterns, suggest explanations and assist with experiments. The aim is not simply to produce answers, but to make difficult questions easier to explore. The idea is already producing important examples. In 2024, the Nobel Prize in Chemistry recognised Demis Hassabis and John Jumper for work in predicting protein structures. David Baker was recognised for computational protein design. Understanding protein structures helps scientists study how they work and can support research into new medicines. Mathematics is putting AIs reasoning abilities to the test. An advanced version of Google DeepMinds Gemini Deep Think achieved gold-medal-level performance at the 2025 International Mathematical Olympiad. Another system, AlphaEvolve, has been used to search for improved ways of performing computer calculations. It generates possible solutions, tests them and identifies stronger approaches, examining possibilities at a scale that would be difficult to explore manually. Healthcare research is becoming another important field for AI. AI can examine large numbers of possible chemical combinations and identify those worth studying further. It can also help researchers organise information and analyse study results. Any promising finding still needs careful review and testing before it can be accepted as reliable. Materials science is opening new possibilities for AI. Computational tools can examine large numbers of potential materials and identify those worth studying further. These possibilities can then be developed and tested for practical uses, including batteries, electronics and other technologies. Universities and research centres around the world are studying these possibilities. Stanford researchers are examining ways AI can assist scientific work. Princeton has established a new Data and Intelligent Systems initiative to support AI and data-science research. The University of Cambridge is exploring AI applications in areas such as energy production, healthcare and biology. ETH Zurich is studying AI applications in climate science, energy production and storage, healthcare, robotics and quantum science. Major scientific institutions are examining the subject as well. The Royal Society has studied how AI could influence scientific research. CERN is involved in work connecting AI, computing and scientific research. The European CoE RAISE project explored AI approaches for scientific and engineering applications on next-generation supercomputers. These efforts share an interest in how modern computing can assist research. India is advancing research in this field. The Anusandhan National Research Foundation has a dedicated programme for Artificial Intelligence in Science and Engineering. Its areas include AI for science, engineering design and materials development, weather and climate modelling, and bio and life sciences. It supports shared AI models, scientific datasets, software and access to computing resources. Meanwhile, researchers at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru are working at the meeting point of AI and science. The scale of this research is growing rapidly. Stanfords 2026 AI Index reports that AI-related publications in the natural sciences reached approximately 80,150 in 2025, about 26 percent higher than in 2024. This suggests that AI is becoming a useful partner in scientific exploration. Fully autonomous scientific discovery is still at an early stage, but AI is helping researchers examine complex problems and explore possibilities at remarkable scale. Human testing remains essential for developing promising ideas into reliable knowledge. That partnership is where much of the promise lies. An AI system can identify a pattern, suggest a possibility or point towards an unexpected connection. Researchers can then ask why it exists, test the idea and determine where it might lead. AI does not diminish scientific curiosity. It can give curiosity more directions to follow. A central question in discovery is simple: what should we explore next? AI can examine millions of possibilities and help researchers notice connections that might otherwise remain hidden. People provide the purpose behind the search. Researchers choose questions, define goals, evaluate evidence and decide which ideas deserve further attention. Combined, these capabilities can open new paths for scientific work. What lies ahead is not a choice between humans and machines, but a deeper partnership. Advanced tools can extend human curiosity, while AI can process enormous amounts of information and examine possibilities at remarkable speed. Scientists bring judgement, context and responsibility. The result could be a new way of doing research, one that moves faster while opening fresh avenues for exploration and discovery. The history of science provides an instructive lesson. The telescope did not replace the astronomer. The microscope did not replace the scientist. The computer did not replace the mathematician. Each expanded what people could observe, calculate or investigate. In much the same way, AI can extend scientific curiosity. Its greatest contribution may not be measured only by the answers it produces. It may also be measured by the possibilities it reveals, the connections it helps uncover and the questions it brings into view. The next big leap in AI may not be about machines having all the answers. It may be about helping humans explore a larger universe of questions. And perhaps the most exciting possibility is that somewhere within that vast search, AI may help a curious mind find a question that opens the door to a discovery nobody had imagined before. (The author is a Columnist. Er. Email bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com)
From Yeazar to Trousers: Unravelling the Myth of the Trouserless Kashmiri
From the dawn of human history, clothing has served as our primary armour against the elements. Evolutionary biology and genetic evidence trace humanitys first steps toward covering the body back some 170,000 years ago during an Ice Age, when early humans began utilizing animal skins and furs to trap heat. What began as crude, draped pelts eventually evolved through technological milestones like the invention of the eyed sewing needle 40,000 years ago, allowing for tailored garments that could withstand harsh climates. Across every civilization, the fundamental human drive has been the same: to protect the body and preserve dignity against environmental extremes. Looking back into the historical heritage of Kashmir, multiple independent records demonstrate a long-standing culture of proficient weaving and proper attire. As documented in M.L. Kapur's The History and Culture of Kashmir, historical accounts and archaeological findings from sites like Harvan reveal a thriving textile industry encompassing Kauseya (silks and muslins), Ksauma (linen from flax and hemp), and Kambala (woollen blankets and animal-wool garments). This legacy of fine craftsmanship expanded significantly during the medieval period. As detailed in Prof. Mohibul Hasans authoritative work, Kashmir Under the Sultans, particularly under the enlightened rule of Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin, the valley witnessed a flourishing economic and manufacturing golden age. Kashmiri artisans produced and exported renowned shawls, silks, and woolen cloth celebrated for warmth and durability across various countries, while merchants maintained extensive trade networks spanning Tibet, Central Asia, and India. Nowhere in these comprehensive historical chronicles is there any suggestion that the people of Kashmir lacked basic garments like trousers (yazar). Yet, recent political discourse has occasionally featured sensationalised and baseless claimsalleging that Kashmiris, even as late as the mid-20th century, lacked trousers and had to beg or borrow them to look presentable. This distorted narrative collapses under the weight of historical documentation. Sir Walter Lawrences definitive colonial-era study, The Valley of Kashmir, provides meticulous descriptions of everyday local attire, noting how cultivators routinely wore traditional woollen gowns tucked into drawers that functioned as practical knickerbockers for daily life and travel. Was historical Kashmir marked by material hardship? Undeniably. Centuries of heavy taxation, administrative exploitation, and geographic isolation often forced ordinary villagers to live modestly, where resources were scarce, and a single woollen pheran paired with a kangri fire pot formed the core defence against brutal winters. But periodic economic exploitation and a lifestyle of rustic simplicity are a far cry from the total absence of fundamental clothing. The people of Kashmir have always clothed themselves with innate dignity, drawing upon a rich, centuries-old heritage of textile mastery. History demands fidelity to documented facts rather than political theatrics. While humanity's journey of clothing has evolved from prehistoric animal hides to modern ready-to-wear fashion, the self-respect and cultural identity of the Kashmiri peopleanchored firmly in a rich history of local attireremain entirely untouched by manufactured myths. (The author is a former civil servant from the administrative service. Email: nisargilani57748@gmail.com)
The skin we trust: When beauty promises turn into medical risks
A glowing face. Thicker hair. Clearer skin. Fewer wrinkles. A pigmentation-free complexion. Scroll through social media and the promise is everywhere: a better appearance is only one cream, one injection or one procedure away. The language is persuasive. Miracle cure. Instant results. Advanced technology. 100 per cent natural. Permanent solution. For someone troubled by acne, pigmentation or hair loss, such promises can be difficult to resist. But behind the glossy photographs and confident claims lies a question that deserves far more attention: Where does genuine dermatology endand quackery begin? When Appearance Becomes an Opportunity. Skin problems are different from many other illnesses because they are often visible to everyone. A person may live with acne for months, struggle with pigmentation for years, or watch helplessly as hair becomes thinner. These conditions may not always threaten life, but they can affect confidence, social interaction and emotional well-being. Dermatological treatment is also rarely an overnight process. Acne, melasma, psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo and many forms of hair loss may require months or even years of treatment. Improvement can be gradual, incomplete or interrupted by recurrence. That is precisely where unrealistic promises find an audience. When conventional treatment seems slow, the promise of something new, powerful or instant becomes tempting. And this is where the business of quackery can begin. Quackery Has Changed Its Appearance The word quackery may conjure images of an old-fashioned healer selling mysterious potions. Today, it can look very different. It may come packaged in an attractive clinic, accompanied by sophisticated equipment, impressive photographs and scientific-sounding terminology. It may involve an expensive treatment package, a social-media influencer, a special cream or an injectable therapy described as revolutionary. Quackery is not simply about who provides the treatment. It can also involve exaggerated claims, misleading advertising, unnecessary procedures, inappropriate use of medicines or devices, and promotion of treatments without adequate scientific evidence. The packaging may be modern. The problem remains the same. The Cream That Promises Too Much Perhaps the simplest example is the miracle cream. Products promising permanent removal of pigmentation, acne, scars, wrinkles or other skin problems are widely available. The attraction is obvious: a bottle or tube seems far easier than months of medical treatment. But some fairness and depigmenting preparations may contain potent medicines such as corticosteroids, hydroquinone or retinoids. When used incorrectly or for prolonged periods without medical supervision, these products can damage the skin. Problems may include acne-like eruptions, visible small blood vessels, thinning of the skin and pigmentary abnormalities. The important lesson is not that every cosmetic cream is dangerous. Hair Loss and the Hope of Regrowth Few things can generate anxiety quite like hair loss. This makes the condition particularly vulnerable to commercial exploitation. Patients may be offered injections, supplements, serums, devices or expensive packages promising impressive hair regrowth. Increasingly, terms such as stem cells and regenerative therapy are also used to market treatments. But hair loss is not one disease. Androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, nutritional deficiencies and scarring alopecias have very different causes. A treatment that may be appropriate for one condition may be uselessor inappropriatefor another. The first question should therefore not be: Which package should I buy? It should be: What type of hair loss do I have? In scarring alopecia, this distinction becomes particularly important because damage to hair follicles may become permanent if the underlying disease is not appropriately managed. Lasers: Powerful Technology, Not Magic Lasers have transformed dermatology. They can be extremely useful in appropriately selected patients for a range of skin conditions and cosmetic concerns. But technology does not eliminate the need for medical judgment. A laser procedure depends on the correct diagnosis, patient selection, skin characteristics, device, settings and expertise of the person performing it. The indiscriminate use of lasers can result in burns, increased or decreased pigmentation, scarring and other complications. A machine may be sophisticated. That does not mean every patient needs it. The Seduction of Scientific Words Modern dermatology is witnessing exciting research in areas such as stem cells, exosomes, growth factors, regenerative medicine and nanotechnology. These fields hold scientific promise. But scientific vocabulary can also become a powerful marketing tool. A treatment does not become proven simply because it has a sophisticated name. Before accepting an advanced therapy, patients should ask: What evidence supports it? Has it been adequately studied? What outcome can realistically be expected? What are the risks? These questions matter more than how impressive the treatment sounds. More Procedures Do Not Always Mean Better Care There is another subtle form of commercialisation: the belief that more treatment must mean better treatment. A patient may be offered repeated peels, microneedling, injections, lasers or combinations of procedures as part of a package. But medicine should not work like a subscription service. A procedure should have a reason. The Danger We Cannot See The greatest harm from quackery may sometimes be invisible. It may be the disease that was never diagnosed. A changing pigmented lesion could repeatedly be treated with creams rather than properly evaluated. A persistent ulcer might receive one topical treatment after another when it actually requires further investigation or biopsy. A suspected autoimmune blistering disorder could be treated incorrectly, delaying appropriate management. In these situations, the problem is not merely that a treatment has failed. Valuable time has been lost. And in medicine, time can matter. When the Treatment Becomes the Problem Inappropriate treatment can itself cause disease. Unsuitable steroid-containing preparations can produce steroid-related skin problems. Incorrectly performed injections can cause nodules, granulomas, infection, vascular complications and tissue damage. Aggressive energy-based procedures can lead to persistent changes in pigmentation or skin texture. The label natural, premium, advanced or non-surgical is therefore not a guarantee of safety. Every treatment deserves the same questions: Is it indicated? Does it work? What are the risks? Instagram Versus Evidence Perhaps nowhere is the battle between evidence and marketing more visible than on social media. A short video promising clear skin in seven days can reach millions of viewers. A carefully conducted clinical study may struggle to attract attention. Before-and-after photographs can be compelling, but photographs can be influenced by lighting, camera angle, makeup, hydration, image processing and selective reporting. And a testimonialhowever sincereis still a testimonial. Testimonials are not clinical trials. Social media itself is not the enemy. It can be an extraordinary platform for health education. The challenge is learning to recognise when education ends and advertising begins. A Few Questions Can Protect You Patients do not need a medical degree to make safer decisions. Before undergoing an expensive, invasive or unfamiliar treatment, ask: What is my diagnosis? Why do I need this treatment? Is there scientific evidence that it works? What are my alternatives? What are the possible complications? How many sessions are actually necessary? What happens if I do not undergo the procedure? Is there a simpler, safer or less expensive established option? Be cautious about guaranteed cures, extraordinary promises, pressure to purchase packages and claims based primarily on testimonials or photographs. And when in doubt, seeking an independent medical opinion is reasonable. Doctors, Too, Have a Responsibility The responsibility for combating quackery does not rest entirely with patients. Dermatologists must recognise the influence they have on public trust. A responsible dermatologist should explain realistic outcomes, discuss limitations and risks, use evidence to guide treatment and avoid unnecessary interventions. The same responsibility applies to social media. Medical professionals have the opportunity to counter misinformation with something far more valuable: clear, honest and understandable medical education. Patients deserve to know not only what a treatment can do, but also what it cannot do. Where Ethics Meets Medicine At its heart, this is an ethical issue. A dermatologist may have access to dozens of procedures and technologies. The question is not how many can be offered. The question is which one, if any, the patient actually needs. Not every patient needs a procedure. Not every new technology is a breakthrough. Not every expensive treatment is better. Not every photograph represents a clinically meaningful result. The ethical dermatologist must sometimes put professional judgment before commercial interest. That may mean refusing a procedure. It may mean recommending a simpler treatment. It may even mean telling a patient to wait. These decisions may not always generate revenuebut they build something far more important: trust. Innovation Should Never Be the EnemyBut Evidence Must Lead It would be wrong to suggest that everything new is quackery. Modern dermatology has advanced because doctors and scientists have been willing to explore new medicines, devices, surgical techniques and regenerative approaches. Many treatments that are considered standard today were once experimental. The difference is evidence. New treatments need appropriate scientific evaluation. Their benefits must be measured, their risks recognised and their limitations communicated honestly. Innovation should follow evidencenot replace it. Protecting the Public, Protecting Trust Quackery in dermatology has evolved with the times. It can now hide behind sophisticated equipment, attractive clinics, scientific terminology, celebrity endorsements and carefully edited social-media content. For the public, the answer is neither fear nor blind acceptance. It is informed decision-making. For doctors, the answer is responsible practice. For professional organisations and regulators, it is effective oversight of misleading claims and unsafe practices. And for all of us, it is a return to a simple principle: Good medicine begins with the patientnot the procedure. The next time a cream promises perfect skin, an advertisement guarantees permanent hair regrowth, or a new procedure is described as revolutionary, pause before reaching for your wallet. Ask the simplestand perhaps the most powerfulquestion in medicine: Diagnosis before procedure. The more extraordinary the promise, the more important it is to ask for evidence. What is the evidence? Because when it comes to our skin, our health and our trust, a promise should never be more powerful than proof. (The author is a noted dermatologist and is currently serving as Medical Superintendent of Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, Srinagar
Hazratbal gets 1.35 Cr development push
Srinagar, September 12: Hazratbal MLA Salman Sagar on Saturday laid the foundation stones for developmental works worth 1.35 crore in different areas of the constituency. The projects include development works at the Old Ahmednagar Graveyard, upgradation of the drainage network at Firdous Colony, Buchpora, and macadamisation of the Shah Mohalla stretch in Ahmednagar. Speaking on the occasion, Sagar said holistic and people-centric development remained a key priority during his tenure. He reiterated his commitment to addressing local infrastructure needs through pragmatic measures and ensuring timely completion of developmental projects. Sagar said the focus would remain on people-oriented representation, responsive governance and equitable development across the constituency.
Apni Party backs protesting NHM workers
Srinagar, Sep 12: Apni Party leaders on Saturday visited protesting National Health Mission (NHM) workers in Batamaloo and expressed solidarity with their demands for better service conditions. A party delegation led by Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir met NHM employees observing a sit-in and hunger strike at a park near the PHC in Bonpora Batamaloo. NHM employees across Jammu and Kashmir have been protesting for several days, seeking pay revision, job security and retirement benefits. The delegation included Apni Party Womens Wing President Dilshad Shaheen, spokesperson Ishrat Bhat, Provincial Youth President Kashmir Jibran Dar, Srinagar District President and Central Shalteng Constituency In-charge Zaffar Habib, among other party leaders. During the visit, Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari spoke to the protesting employees over the phone and assured them of the partys full support for their demands. The party leaders expressed solidarity with the employees and said their long-pending concerns deserved due consideration.
NC will continue fight for Statehood, rights: Sagar
Srinagar, Sep 12: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) General Secretary Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar on Saturday said the party would continue to strive for the restoration of constitutional and democratic rights and statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Sagar made the remarks while addressing a meeting of NC legislators from Srinagar district at the party headquarters. The meeting reviewed political activities in the district, party programmes, public issues, development works and ongoing projects. Chief Spokesperson and Zadibal MLA Tanvir Sadiq, Habba Kadal MLA Shameema Firdous, Lal Chowk MLA Ahsan Pardesi, Hazratbal MLA Salman Ali Sagar and Srinagar District President Peer Afaq Ahmad attended the meeting. Sagar said fulfilling commitments made to the people remained among the top priorities of the NC government and that every effort would be made to honour them. He accused the BJP and like-minded parties of spreading what he termed objectionable language and fabricated allegations against the National Conference, saying such attempts to weaken the party had continued since the time of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. He said the NCs bond with the people could not be severed, describing the party as an ideology and movement deeply rooted in Jammu and Kashmir. Sagar also urged party legislators and office-bearers to maintain close contact with the public, raise their concerns before the appropriate forums and strengthen the partys people-centric and democratic agenda. Meanwhile, public delegations and party workers from different parts of the Valley met Sagar and apprised him of various issues. He contacted concerned authorities and directed them to take necessary measures for their early resolution.
BRICS summit encouraging step for global cooperation: Raina
Srinagar, Sep 12: All Party Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) chairman and senior political leader Jagmohan Raina has described the 18th BRICS Summit as an encouraging development, saying the grouping provides an important platform for countries to discuss economic development, security, cooperation and global stability. In a statement, Raina said BRICS has emerged as a significant international forum where major economies, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, Iran and Saudi Arabia, can exchange views on issues affecting their countries and the wider global community. He said the summit offers an opportunity to deliberate on resilience, innovation, trade, finance, cooperation and sustainability. Whenever world leaders sit across the table and engage in meaningful dialogue, it creates opportunities to address differences, resolve issues and build greater cooperation among nations, Raina said. He stressed that such platforms were important for promoting peace and economic stability, adding that direct engagement between leaders could help address bilateral and global challenges and find practical solutions. Raina also called for stronger economic ties among participating countries and greater opportunities in trade, investment and development. At the same time, he said major economies such as the United States, United Kingdom and Japan should also be part of broader global dialogue platforms to create a more inclusive mechanism for addressing international challenges. The younger generation across the world wants cooperation rather than confrontation. They want world leaders to work together on peace, economic development, security and sustainability, he said. Raina expressed hope that the BRICS deliberations would produce meaningful outcomes and strengthen cooperation, peace and economic stability among nations.
Mehbooba welcomes BRICS Pahalgam condemnation
Srinagar, Sep 12: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti has welcomed the BRICS condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack, while urging India to adopt a consistent position on terrorism and civilian suffering worldwide. The 18th BRICS Summit, hosted by India in New Delhi, adopted the New Delhi Declaration on Saturday, strongly condemning the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack and reaffirming a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism, including terrorist financing and safe havens. Welcoming the move, Mufti said India, as the current BRICS chair, should have shown courage and true leadership by ensuring that the groupings position also unequivocally addressed civilian suffering in Gaza and the US-Israeli military action against Iran. Terrorism cannot be condemned selectively. Civilian blood has no nationality, and international justice cannot have double standards, she said. Mufti said the principle of condemning attacks on civilians must apply universally, irrespective of their nationality, religion or geopolitical alignment. She also welcomed the BRICS call for humanitarian assistance to Gaza, but said relief alone could not substitute for accountability and an end to violence. Referring to the declarations call for restraint, civilian protection and dialogue in West Asia, Mufti said such commitments must be applied consistently. If the international community is serious about ending terrorism and protecting civilians, there can be no hierarchy of victims and no selective outrage, she said. Mufti said Indias BRICS leadership offered an opportunity to strengthen the voice of the Global South and advocate a rules-based international order in which terrorism, attacks on civilians and violations of international law are condemned irrespective of who commits them.
New Assembly complex targeted for Oct 2027 completion
Jammu, Sep 12: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, on Saturday visited the new Legislative Assembly Complex and reviewed the progress of ongoing works, taking detailed stock of the physical and infrastructural development achieved so far. During the visit, the concerned officers briefed the Speaker about the status of various components of the prestigious project, including the works completed, those nearing completion and the activities presently in progress. A detailed assessment was also made of the works pending and the pace of execution of different components. It was informed that several important works have already been completed in full. These include internal plumbing, granite work on service stairs, door and window frames, and plastering, which have achieved 100 per cent completion. The Speaker was further apprised that work on other components of the project is also progressing at a brisk pace and is presently in full swing. Taking note of the progress achieved, Speaker Rather emphasised that the New Assembly Complex is a prestigious and important institutional project, which is expected to provide modern and comprehensive facilities for the effective functioning of the Legislature. He underscored the need for maintaining sustained momentum in the execution of the project so that all components are completed within the prescribed timeframe. The Speaker directed the concerned officers and executing agencies to expedite the pace of work and gear up men and machinery to ensure timely completion of the remaining components. He called for close and continuous monitoring of the progress at every stage and directed that any bottlenecks affecting the pace of execution be identified and resolved promptly. Speaker Rather stressed that the stipulated timeline for completion of the project must be adhered to in letter and spirit. He directed the concerned agencies to put in place an effective execution and monitoring mechanism so that the remaining works are taken up simultaneously, wherever feasible, without compromising on the quality and prescribed standards. Later, during the review meeting, the Speaker specifically directed that the entire project be completed within the stipulated deadline of October 2027, stating that timely completion of the New Assembly Complex should remain a priority for all concerned. He further called upon the executing agencies to ensure effective coordination and sustained supervision of the works, with particular emphasis on quality, workmanship and adherence to approved specifications and timelines. The Speaker reiterated that the New Assembly Complex carries significant institutional importance and expressed the expectation that concerted efforts by all stakeholders would ensure its timely completion and operationalisation as planned. Secretary JKLA Manoj Kumar Pandit besides CE Mechanical, SE R&B and others senior officers from concerned departments were present in the meeting. Later, Speaker Rather convened a meeting with the Director Estates and officers of the concerned departments to review the preparedness of the Old Assembly Complex and associated facilities ahead of the Darbar Move. During the meeting, the Speaker took stock of the overall condition of the premises and directed the concerned authorities to undertake necessary repairs, renovation and maintenance works wherever required well before the Darbar Move, so that the complex remains fully functional and adequately equipped for the ensuing legislative requirements. Speaker also directed the officers to keep in view the ongoing implementation of the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) project while undertaking repairs, renovation and other works in the Old Assembly Complex. He emphasised that the infrastructure and facilities required for the effective implementation of the NeVA system must be adequately planned and maintained so that the transition to technology-enabled legislative functioning takes place smoothly.
BRICS adopts New Delhi Declaration; Backs UNSC reforms, condemns Pahalgam attack
New Delhi, Sep 12: BRICS leaders on Saturday unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026, strongly condemning the April 22, 2025 Pahalgam terror attack and backing reforms of the UN Security Council, in a major diplomatic outcome for India at the 18th BRICS Summit. The declaration, adopted on the opening day of the summit under [] The post BRICS adopts New Delhi Declaration; Backs UNSC reforms, condemns Pahalgam attack appeared first on Northlines .
GMC Jammu named NMC Regional Centre for Faculty Training
206 medical faculty members trained through eight programmes so far: Principal Arvind Sharma JAMMU TAWI, Sept 12:Medical faculty across Jammu and Kashmir are set to benefit from strengthened faculty development and competency-based medical education, with Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu becoming a new regional training centre approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC). So far, [] The post GMC Jammu named NMC Regional Centre for Faculty Training appeared first on Northlines .
DGP directs for intense action against narco-terrorism in Jammu
Yogesh Jammu, Sep 12:Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Saturday called for intensifying action against narco-terror modules in Jammu region and directed the officers to enhance intelligence-led operations to counter emerging security threats. Chairing a high-level security review meeting with officers of Jammu Police to assess the prevailing security scenario, DGP Prabhat, according [] The post DGP directs for intense action against narco-terrorism in Jammu appeared first on Northlines .
NC Govt not going to run for long: LoP Sharma
Says three ministerial posts vacant even after two years, accuses Abdullah family of preventing grassroots democracy Jammu Tawi, Sep 12:Jammu and Kashmir Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma on Saturday claimed that the Omar Abdullah-led government would not complete its five-year term, alleging there was growing dissatisfaction within the ruling National Conference (NC). Sharma, who [] The post NC Govt not going to run for long: LoP Sharma appeared first on Northlines .
Terror Case: NIA raids 10 locations
Srinagar, Sep 12: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday conducted searches at 10 locations in Jammu and Kashmir in connection with a cross-border terror conspiracy involving Pakistan-based handlers of the proscribed terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and their alleged network of local Over Ground Workers (OGWs). The searches were conducted at locations in Kupwara, Kulgam, [] The post Terror Case: NIA raids 10 locations appeared first on Northlines .
Former Patwari, driver charge-sheeted in bribery case
Udhampur, Sept 12:The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Saturday produced a charge sheet against a former Patwari and a driver in a bribery case before the Special Judge, Anti-Corruption, Udhampur. In a statement issued to the news agency, a spokesperson said the charge sheet was produced in case FIR No. 01/2023 registered at Police Station ACB [] The post Former Patwari, driver charge-sheeted in bribery case appeared first on Northlines .
23,213 cases settled in Lok Adalat across JK
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 12: Continuing its endeavor to promote access to justice through swift, cost-effective and amicable resolution of disputes, the J&K Legal Services Authority, under the patronage of Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Patron-in-Chief, J&K Legal Services Authority and under the dynamic leadership of Justice Sanjeev [] The post 23,213 cases settled in Lok Adalat across JK appeared first on Northlines .
BRICS Chips at Dollar without fully dislodging its foundations
Local Currencies gain even as USD keeps structural advantage By K Raveendran The most important shift in the debate over the dollar is that BRICS is no longer concentrating on the politically spectacular but economically improbable idea of creating a common currency. The emphasis at the New Delhi summit has moved towards something more practical: [] The post BRICS Chips at Dollar without fully dislodging its foundations appeared first on Northlines .
Balidan Diwas 2026: The Kashmiri Pandit Struggle Through Centuries
A Saga of Resistance, Suffering and Supreme Sacrifice Former MLC GL Raina Every year, Kashmiri Hindus observe Balidan Diwas to remember those who sacrificed their lives for the nation, Dharma and the survival of their community. The day is associated with the martyrdom of Pandit Tika Lal Taploo, one of the tallest political leaders of [] The post Balidan Diwas 2026: The Kashmiri Pandit Struggle Through Centuries appeared first on Northlines .
From backdrop to storyteller: J
The inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu Kashmir opens a new chapter for the regions filmmakers, audiences and creative ecosystem Deepak Dubey, JKAS For decades, the cinematic identity of Jammu and Kashmir existed almost exclusively on the other side of the lens. The snow-swept meadows of Gulmarg, the willow-fringed waters of Dal Lake and the [] The post From backdrop to storyteller: J&K finds its cinematic voice appeared first on Northlines .
BRICS formed to end US sanctions, break totalitarianism: Iranian President Pezeshkian
In an exclusive interview with India Today on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Pezeshkian emphasised that BRICS aims to break the otalitarianism of the United States, positioning the bloc as a direct challenge to Washington's ability to impose economic restrictions on nations at its own discretion.
Ahead of Autumn Session, Speaker Constitutes Business Advisory Committee
SRINAGAR: Ahead of the upcoming autumn session of the Jammu Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather has constituted the Business Advisory Committee (BAC). According to a notification, the committee comprises legislators from different political parties and has been constituted under Rule 317 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Legislative []
Saffron Replanting Picks Up Pace in Pampore as Farmers Avail JKCIP Support
SRINAGAR: Saffron replanting has gained considerable momentum across the major saffron-growing areas of Pampore as farmers have begun actively rejuvenating their fields under the Jammu and Kashmir Comprehensive Investment Plan (JKCIP). The ongoing exercise aims to revive saffron cultivation, improve crop productivity, and restore the health of fields that have seen declining yields over the []
Met Forecasts Scattered Rain, Thundershowers in Jammu Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to experience generally dry weather over the next two days, with isolated to scattered rain or thundershowers expected during the late evening, according to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar. The weather is forecast to become more variable from September 14 to 16, when rain or thundershowers may occur at scattered []
Russian Missile, Drone Strikes Kill Three Across Ukraine
SRINAGAR: Three people were killed and scores injured after Russian missiles and drones struck 10 regions of Ukraine, hitting residential buildings as well as civilian and critical infrastructure, Ukrainian officials said on Saturday, according to Al Jazeera. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a post on social media said Russia had launched an attack involving more []
Jammu Kashmir: NHM Employees Continue Strike Over Long-Pending Demands
SRINAGAR: National Health Mission (NHM) employees across Jammu and Kashmir continued their strike for the fourth consecutive day on Saturday affecting hospital services as they pressed the government to fulfil their long-pending demands. In Anantnag, around 700 NHM employees remained off duty, causing difficulties for patients and affecting healthcare services. The employees said they would []
Woman Dies After Falling Unconscious at Railway Station in North Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A 50-year-old woman died after she fell unconscious at the railway station in north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Saturday, officials said. An official said that the woman fell unconscious at the railway station and was soon shifted to Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla for treatment, where doctors declared her dead. She was identified as []
Power Supply To Several Jammu Areas To Remain Affected
SRINAGAR: Power supply to several areas of Jammu and Samba districts will remain affected on September 13, 14 and 16 due to scheduled maintenance works, the Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) said. According to JPDCL, power supply to Talabtillo, Trilokpur, Bohri, Udheywala, Machelian, Marh, Gajansoo, Gho Manhasan and adjoining areas will remain affected on []
Women-Only E-Rickshaws Begin Operations in Srinagar Parts
SRINAGAR: In a welcome step aimed at improving womens safety and mobility, e-rickshaws reserved for women have been introduced on parts of Srinagar roads, including the Batamaloo area. The initiative is aimed at providing women commuters with a dedicated and more comfortable mode of public transport, particularly for those travelling alone or during busy commuting []
Northern Army commander reviews counter-terrorism grid in south Kashmir
Srinagar, Sep 12: Northern Command GOC Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma on Saturday visited south Kashmir to review the counter-terrorism grid in the region. He also took stock of prevailing security scenario and operational preparedness. The Army commander emphasised on adaptability, precision, sustained vigilance and synergy, the key enablers for successful and intelligence-driven operations and rapid response to any emerging challenges. During his interaction with the troops, the Army commander appreciated their indomitable spirit and dedication towards keeping the region free of terror and ensuring peace and stability.
How Do Travel Routers Create Secure Networks Anywhere?
Travelers increasingly rely on internet connectivity for navigation, communication, work, entertainment, and online services. However, accessing the internet while travelling often means relying on unfamiliar networks in public spaces. While these networks provide convenience, they pose a potential risk from a security and privacy perspective. This is where a travel router addresses many of these challenges faced by travellers. A travel router can create a private network around the traveler by connecting to the available internet connection and then providing its own Wi-Fi network for travellers devices. This creates a consistent networking environment for all devices, is secure, and is easier to manage. With that said, let us take a look at how travel routers create secure networks anywhere. Travel Routers Create a Private WiFi Network The primary function of a travel router is to create a private WiFi network by connecting to a pre-existing internet network. For instance, if you are staying at a hotel that provides WiFi, you can connect the travel router to the hotel WiFi and connect all of your devices to the travel routers network. By doing so, you can connect all of your devices to a private WiFi network of your travel router that you can manage and secure. Since travel routers come with different security features, make sure that you enable all the relevant security configurations, such as WPA3, firewall, etc., through http://192.168.0.1 to properly secure the network, as simply owning a travel router doesn't automatically create a secure network. They Reduce Direct Exposure to Public Networks Public WiFi networks, including those at hotels, cafs, airports, and other public locations, are shared environments. Depending on how the network is configured, devices connected directly to the same network may have some ability to discover or communicate with one another. A travel router acts as an intermediary, preventing anyone from snooping on your devices. The public WiFi network can only see the travel router as the connected client, while your devices communicate through the router's private network. This provides an additional layer of security for your devices to connect to the internet. They Come With Built-In Firewall Protection The good thing about travel routers is that they come with included firewall functionality. The travel router can monitor and control the traffic moving between the external connection and your private network. This can prevent unsolicited and unauthorized connections from reaching your devices and network. You can properly configure the firewall of your travel router through http://192.168.1.1 and add an extra layer of security while you are using public WiFi networks. Keep in mind that a firewall isn't a replacement for endpoint security, and your devices should still have current software, security updates, and appropriate security settings. They Come With VPN Support Another way in which travel routers create a secure network anywhere is by supporting VPN. Many travel routers these days support VPN clients, and when configured properly, the router can establish a VPN connection to a VPN provider or a private server. This means that all of the connected devices on the network can send their traffic through that VPN without having to configure a VPN on every device separately. This means that all the devices can stay protected against network observation, especially on public and untrusted networks.
Div Com reviews removal of bottlenecks for Srinagar Ring Road Phase-II, II-A
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 12: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, today chaired a meeting to review the clearance of impediments for Srinagar Ring Road (SRR) Phase-II and II-A to expedite the completion of the project. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, SSP Traffic Rural, Project Director NHAI, and officers from R&B, PHE and KPDCL. On the occasion, officers of NHAI gave a detailed presentation on the project, highlighting the impediments faced by the executing agency, including land acquisition status, compensation disbursed, demolition of Government and private structures, shifting / alteration of establishment structures, utility shifting, court cases and tree felling. During the meeting, the Div Com directed the Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal to depute a joint team comprising ADC Ganderbal, Tehsildar, NHAI and the contractor to hand over possession of acquired land to the executing agency by Tuesday. He further directed NHAI to take possession of the greenfield land parcels as there is no issues faced by the agency. He also directed documentation of private structures and demolition of all such structures by Saturday to remove black spots and bottlenecks. The Div Com further directed phased felling of Chinar and Walnut trees falling within the road alignment, as per due procedure. He also impressed upon the NHAI officers to undertake immediate maintenance of existing roads in Ganderbal damaged due to movement of their project vehicles.
PIB Srinagar Organises Media Tour to Chennai for Srinagar Journalists
Srinagar, September 12 :The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar Region, is organising a media tour for journalists from Srinagar to Chennai from September 13 to 19, 2026 as part of its ongoing media outreach initiatives. A 13 member delegation comprising journalists from Srinagar and PIB officials will participate in the tour. Prior to the departure, Director, PIB Srinagar, Qazi Salman, briefed the delegation on the objectives of the visit and urged the participants to make meaningful use of the interactions during the tour. The delegation is being led by Shri Shahid Lone, Field Publicity Officer, CBC Anantnag, serving as the Conducting Officer, with Shri Ifham Ul Islam, Information Assistant, PIB Srinagar, accompanying the delegation. The tour is aimed at providing journalists with firsthand exposure to key Central Government institutions, projects and initiatives in Chennai and enhancing their understanding of national level policies and their implementation on the ground. During the visit, the delegation will visit various Central Government establishments and projects in Chennai and interact with senior officials to gain an understanding of their functioning and operations. Addressing the delegation, Qazi Salman congratulated the participants and expressed confidence that the visit would provide an opportunity for professional engagement and a better understanding of the functioning of Central Government institutions.
Father-son killed, mother critically injured in Budgams Soibugh accident
Budgam, Sept 12: A 29-year-old man and his three-year-old son were killed, while his wife was critically injured after a car collided with their motorcycle in the Soibugh area of Budgam district on Saturday. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the car bearing was travelling from Budgam towards Soibugh when it collided with a motorcycle bearing registration number JK04G-3449. He said the motorcycle rider and his three-year-old son were killed in the accident, while the woman riding pillion sustained critical injuries. The deceased were identified as Naseer Ahmad Mir (29), son of Gh Hassan, a resident of Ghoom Ahmadpora, Magam, and his three-year-old son, Hadi. The injured woman was identified as Dilshada Akhter (26). The official said Dilshada sustained critical injuries and was shifted to a hospital for treatment. Her condition was not immediately known. Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident and an investigation has been initiated.(KNO)
Man drowns in River Jhelum in Sopore, body recovered
Sopore, Sep 12: A tragic incident occurred at Vijibal Doabgah area of Sopore in north Kashmir after a man drowned in the River Jhelum while reportedly trying to drag his boat towards the riverbank for repair on Saturday. According to reports, the man was engaged in taking the boat towards the bank when he accidentally fell into the river. The incident caused panic in the area, following which locals immediately rushed to the spot and informed the concerned authorities about the mishap. Soon after receiving the information, a joint rescue operation was launched by personnel of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police and local residents. The rescuers began searching the river in an effort to trace the man, while locals also extended their assistance during the operation. After sustained efforts and an extensive search, the rescue teams managed to retrieve the body of the man from the River Jhelum. The deceased was identified as Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Sumji (60), S/o Sonaullah Sumji, a resident of Sher Colony, Sopore. Following the recovery, police took the body into custody and completed the required medico-legal formalities. After completion of the formalities, the body was handed over to the bereaved family for the last rites. The incident has left the family and residents of Sher Colony in deep shock and grief. Local residents appreciated the timely efforts of the SDRF, police personnel and those who participated in the rescue operation.
New Delhi , September 12 : The New Delhi Declaration, adopted by consensus in the national capital, reaffirmed BRICS support for a lasting two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, while urging deeper international institutional support for Palestine and reaffirming Israels legal obligation to ensure the provision of humanitarian aid in Gaza. We reaffirm that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only be achieved by peaceful means and depends on the fulfilment of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including the rights to self-determination and return, the declaration said. The declaration also affirmed the need for adequate representation of Palestine in all relevant international organisations, including multilateral financial institutions, and access to their resources. It further reaffirmed support for the State of Palestines full membership in the United Nations, in the context of the unwavering commitment to the two-state solution and in accordance with international law, including relevant UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. The grouping said this should include the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within the internationally recognised 1967 borders, including the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The declaration said this was aimed at achieving the vision of two States living side by side, in peace and security. BRICS also expressed firm opposition to the forced displacement, whether temporary or permanent, of any of the Palestinian population from the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as well as any geographic or demographic changes to the Gaza Strip. We express our firm opposition to the forced displacement, temporary or permanent, under any pretext, of any of the Palestinian population from the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as well as any geographic or demographic changes to the territory of the Gaza Strip, it said. The declaration said international law and international judicial bodies demand an end to the illegal occupation and the immediate cessation of practices that undermine legal norms and obstruct a just and lasting peace. We reiterate our grave concern about the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the declaration said, calling for adherence to international law, particularly international humanitarian law and international human rights law. It condemned violations including the use of starvation as a method of warfare, attacks targeting civilians and civilian objects, including healthcare facilities and other civilian infrastructure, as well as the unlawful obstruction of humanitarian access. BRICS also condemned attempts to politicise or militarise humanitarian assistance and reaffirmed its steadfast support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). We reassert our steadfast support for UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and stress the need to fully respect the mandate, bestowed on it by the UNGA, for the provision of basic services to Palestine refugees in its five fields of operations, the declaration said. The grouping called on all relevant parties to respect their obligations under international law, act with utmost restraint and avoid escalatory actions and provocative declarations. It also noted the provisional measures of the International Court of Justice in the legal proceedings instituted by South Africa against Israel, which, among other things, reaffirmed Israels legal obligation to ensure the provision of humanitarian aid in Gaza. On Jerusalem, BRICS rejected unilateral measures seeking to alter the legal and historical status of occupied Jerusalem and urged full respect for the sanctity of all religious sites and holy places in the city. We urge full respect for the sanctity of all religious sites and holy places in the city and for the rights of all to access and to observe their religious rites without hindrance, the declaration said. This comes as part of the wide-ranging geopolitical issues addressed in the New Delhi Declaration as India hosts the BRICS Summit 2026.
New Delhi , September 12 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration 2026 at the 18th BRICS Summit being held in the national capital. The declaration expressed deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in West Asia and called for exercising maximum restraint, as well as avoiding actions that could further aggravate the situation. We urge to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure in accordance with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations in their entirety and interconnectedness, including respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the States. We encourage increasing efforts, through dialogue and diplomacy, towards a long-term understanding that will contribute to lasting peace, security and stability in the region. We stress the need to work together to maintain smooth flow of global trade, supply chains and energy, in accordance with applicable international law, the declaration read. We express serious concern over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under full safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in violation of international law and relevant resolutions of the IAEA. Nuclear safeguards, safety, and security must always be upheld, including in armed conflicts, to protect people and the environment from harm, the resolution added. The BRICS bloc also called for the implementation of the relevant UNGA and UNSC Resolutions and urge all parties to ensure the maintenance of ceasefire and full and unhindered humanitarian access in the Gaza Strip. We express deep concern on the continued violence in Gaza despite the ceasefire agreement of October 2025. We call for halting any policies aimed at forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza Strip and express concern regarding arrangements that may prejudice the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and legitimize or prolong occupation. We reaffirm that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only be achieved by peaceful means and depends on the fulfilment of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including the rights to self-determination and return. The joint declaration noted the current global context of polarization and distrust and encouraged global action to strengthen international peace and security. We call on the international community to respond to these challenges and associated security threats through politico-diplomatic measures to lower conflict potential and stress the need to engage in conflict prevention efforts, including through addressing their root causes. We underscore that security among all countries is indivisible and reiterate our commitment to the peaceful resolution of international disputes through dialogue, consultation and diplomacy. We encourage the active role of regional organizations in conflict prevention and resolution and support all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of crises, the declaration read. We agree to explore avenues for cooperation on the prevention of armed conflicts, UN peacekeeping missions, African Union peace support operations, and mediation and peace processes. We express concern about ongoing conflicts in many parts of the world and the current state of polarization and fragmentation in the international order. We express alarm at the current trend that has seen a critical increase in global military spending, to the detriment of the provision of adequate financing for development to developing countries. We advocate for a multilateral approach that respects diverse national viewpoints and positions on crucial global issues, including sustainable development, the eradication of hunger and poverty and contributing to the global response to climate change, while expressing deep concern over attempts to link security with the climate change agenda, it added. The joint BRICS nations declaration also expressed concern about the growing risks of nuclear danger and conflict. It reiterated the need for invigorating the system of disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation and for preserving its integrity and effectiveness to achieve global stability and international peace and security. We stress the significant contribution of nuclear-weapon-free zones to the strengthening of the nuclear non-proliferation regime, reaffirm our support for and respect towards all existing nuclear-weapons free-zones and their associated assurances against the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons, and acknowledge the paramount importance of the efforts aiming at accelerating the implementation of the resolutions on the Establishment of a Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and other Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Middle East, including the Conference convened pursuant to UN General Assembly Decision 73/546, the declaration read. The declaration said that building on two decades of BRICS, the nations further commit themselves to strengthening cooperation in the expanded BRICS under the three pillars of political and security, economic and financial, cultural and people-to-people cooperation, and to enhancing strategic partnership for the benefit of people through the promotion of peace, a more representative, fairer international order, a reinvigorated and reformed multilateral system, sustainable development and inclusive growth. The declaration also commended the significant progress achieved under India's BRICS Chairship in 2026, under the theme Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability, which the declaration said reflected the shared commitment to strengthening BRICS cooperation in addressing common challenges with a balanced, practical, actionable, inclusive, development-oriented and people-centered approach.
Kashmir is beautiful, blessed: AR Rahman pitches valley for global cinema hub
Srinagar , September 12 : Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman hailed Kashmir as a eautiful and lessed place, saying the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir is a commendable initiative that will showcase the Valley's scenic beauty, vibrant culture and warm hospitality to the world. Expressing hope that the festival will gain global recognition, Rahman said Kashmir's peaceful and inspiring surroundings make it an ideal destination for filmmakers and artists, while encouraging Bollywood to highlight the region's beauty and collaborate more with local musicians. Speaking to ANI, Rahman said Kashmir's scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal destination for filmmakers and artists seeking inspiration. Kashmir is a beautiful place and it's blessed. So having an international film festival is commendable and everybody can see the beauty of Kashmir and the vibration of Kashmir. I wish this film festival becomes really famous and a lot of people come here and enjoy the hospitality of the Kashmiri people, he said. Sharing details of his current visit, the composer said, I've come for an ad. I'll tell you what it is. We enjoyed shooting the ad, we just finished it. AR Rahman also revealed that he is exploring future collaborations in Kashmir, including a possible live performance. Yes, we have some plans, and we are talking. Hopefully, I want to come and perform here, he said. On whether Bollywood should increasingly use Kashmir as a filming destination, Rahman said the industry should project the Valley's beauty and peace. That's a very good point. I think that's what should happen from now. They should bring the beauty and the peace when you see nature as a positive thing rather than talking about violence or the past. The past is past, and the future is bright, he said. Highlighting the potential of Kashmiri folk and traditional music, Rahman welcomed greater collaboration between Bollywood musicians and local artistes. I think that's a beautiful suggestion and I would love to. I came here for 'Rockstar'. I recorded the ladies singing folk songs, and we used it in Rockstar. We want to come and do more things here. We want to come and do more things here, he said. Referring to the International Film Festival, Rahman expressed hope that it would evolve into a globally recognised event. Yes, this is a great opening. I wish it will grow and grow and become such a great experience. We go to Amsterdam, and we go to London Film Festival and Sundance. I wish Kashmir becomes the best festival in India, he added. (ANI)
New Delhi , September 12: The BRICS countries on Saturday adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026, backing the aspirations of India and Brazil to play a greater role in the United Nations, including its Security Council, while strongly condemning the April 2025 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir and calling for zero tolerance towards terrorism. The declaration, adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, said China and Russia, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, reiterated their support for the aspirations of Brazil and India to play a greater role in the UN, including its Security Council. The BRICS leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to reforming the UN Security Council to make it more democratic, representative, effective and efficient, with greater representation for developing countries. On terrorism, the grouping condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025, in which 26 people were killed and several others injured. The declaration reaffirmed BRICS commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens. It also called for zero tolerance for terrorism and rejected double standards in countering the menace. The BRICS countries further called for the expeditious finalisation and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the UN framework and urged concerted action against all UN-designated terrorists and terrorist entities. On the economic front, the declaration voiced serious concern over the rise of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures, saying such measures distort trade, threaten global supply chains and create uncertainty for international economic activity. The grouping reaffirmed its support for reform of the World Trade Organisation and called for an open, equitable, transparent, fair, inclusive and rules-based multilateral trading system. It also advocated the immediate restoration of a fully functioning two-tier binding WTO dispute settlement mechanism. The declaration also condemned unilateral economic and secondary sanctions that it said were contrary to international law, arguing that such measures have adverse implications for development, health and food security.
Will Break Chains Around Me on November 3: MP Ruhullah
SRINAGAR: Srinagar MP Agha Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday described November 3 as the point when he would break those chains and free himself, in his clearest indication yet of a political break from the present National Conference leadership and of a possible new political course after that date. First let me free myself from []
Aga Ruhullah Hits Back At Sakeena Itoo Over Omar Abdullah Poll Remarks
Srinagar: National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has rejected the remarks made by cabinet colleague Sakina Itoo regarding Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs poll prospects, saying such statements couldnt have been made in the right perspective. Ruhullah, reacting to Itoos comments, said that his stand on issues concerning the people of Jammu and Kashmir remains []
Nanda CC Hajin lifts Kilo Force T20 Cricket Trophy
Bandipora: Nanda Cricket Club (CC) Hajin on Saturday lifted the Kilo Force T20 Cricket Trophy after defeating Naidkhai Cricket Club in the final of a cricket tournament organised by the Manasbal Battalion of the Indian Army at Poshwari playground. The tournament witnessed participation of around 16 teams from different villages, providing local youth an opportunity []
Ladakh Wildlife Board Rejects Report on Boundaries of Three Protected Areas
SRINAGAR: The Ladakh State Board for Wildlife (SBWL) has rejected a sub-committee report on the proposed final boundaries of three protected areas, directing that the rights and claims of local communities be settled through public hearings within two months. The decision was taken at the 16th meeting of the newly constituted SBWL, chaired by Lieutenant []
NIA searches 10 locations across J
Srinagar/New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday conducted searches at 10 locations across Kupwara, Kulgam, Bandipora, Baramulla and Sopore in connection with a cross-border terror conspiracy involving Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) handlers and their alleged network of local Over Ground Workers (OGWs). In a statement , an NIA spokesperson said the searches were conducted []
NIA Conducts Searches at 10 Locations Across Jammu Kashmir in LeT Terror Conspiracy Case
SRINAGAR: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday conducted searches at 10 locations across Jammu and Kashmir as part of its investigation into a cross-border terror conspiracy involving Pakistan-based handlers of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and its network of Over Ground Workers (OGWs). According to an NIA handout, the searches were carried out in Kupwara, []
Hailstorm, Heavy Rain Damage Paddy Crops in Parts of Central Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A sudden hailstorm accompanied by heavy rainfall damaged standing paddy crops in several parts of Ganderbal district between Friday night and Saturday, while a severe hailstorm also struck villages in and around Kunzer and Tangmarg in north Kashmir overnight. According to local farmers, paddy fields in Malikpora, Pati Devpora, Gogjigund, Kurag and Sehpora were []
Coming of age of BRICS: PM Modi calls for tangible outcomes under India's chairship
New Delhi , September 12 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday officially opened the BRICS Summit 2026. Addressing the summit the Prime Minister called for tangible outcomes, stating that BRICS nations respect each other's perspectives and move forward through consensus. As BRICS completed its 20 years, PM Modi said that called for a moment of coming of age, calling for maturity and responsibility. Addressing the BRICS Summit 2026 under Indias chairship, PM Modi expressed gratitude towards the group for their support. He said, I am delighted to welcome you all to India. Indias chairship is based on a people-centric and humanity-first approach. Resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability have been our priority. Special emphasis has been placed on connecting BRICS with the general public. With this vision in mind, over 350 meetings were organised. We had the opportunity to welcome your teams in nearly 30 cities. I express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for making India's presidency a success. This year's BRICS summit marks a historic milestone. We are celebrating the 20th anniversary of BRICS. In human life, the age of twenty heralds the beginning of a new phase of maturity and responsibility. This is the stage where responsibility aligns with aspirations, and potential finds a new direction. Today, BRICS, too, is at a moment of coming of age. Over the past two decades, BRICS has carved out a distinct identity for itself. We respect each other's perspectives and move forward through consensus. Our approach is not one of opposition to anyone, but rather of taking everyone along. Now is the time for us to translate the unity and consensus within BRICS into tangible outcomes on the global stage, the Prime Minister added. Prime Minister Modi called on BRICS nations to chart out a new and ambitious agenda for the next 20 years and set the course for global reform We need to work on a new and ambitious agenda for the next 20 years. We must begin this process with our own internal working systems. While the BRICS presidency rotates annually, this should not disrupt our institutional momentum. I propose the establishment of a BRICS continuity and implementation mechanism. This would enable the follow-up of all initiatives and outcomes through the 'Troika' arrangement. We could also create a secure digital repository to record the nodal point, timeframe, and implementation status associated with every decision, he said While strengthening BRICS, we must also chart a course for global reform. The current structure of global governance resembles a pyramid: power and decision-making are concentrated at the top, while the lower tiers consist of nations that are affected by these decisions yet unable to shape them, he added. Meanwhile, in a major diplomatic breakthrough a joint statement will be issued by the BRICS nations during the summit today.BRICS countries have reached consensus on a Joint Statement after intensive negotiations that continued until 4 AM on Saturday. The negotiations saw differences on several contentious issues. India led sustained consultations to bridge competing positions and build consensus among members. The breakthrough assumes particular significance given that Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are all part of the same forum, despite deep differences and competing positions on several regional and geopolitical issues. Against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts and heightened tensions in West Asia, securing consensus among countries such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE presented a particularly complex diplomatic challenge. Indias diplomatic prowess ensured that these differences did not derail the BRICS process, paving the way for a consensus Joint Statement despite sharply divergent geopolitical positions among member countries.
Health Minister Warns NHM Workers of Action, Urges Them to End Strike
SRINAGAR: Health Minister Sakina Itoo on Saturday warned that the Jammu and Kashmir Government could be forced to take action if National Health Mission (NHM) workers continued their protest, while urging the employees to return to duty. Itoo said the government did not want to take such a step, but the continued absence of NHM []
LEH, Sept 12: Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has directed completion within two months of the settlement of rights and claims of local communities in three protected areas of Ladakh, after the State Board for Wildlife rejected the report of a sub-committee on finalisation of their boundaries. The direction was issued at the 16th meeting [] The post State Board For Wildlife Rejects Report Of Sub-Committee On Settlement Of Boundaries In Protected Areas Of Ladakh appeared first on Northlines .
Was the Tata Sumo More Than a Vehicle for a Generation in Kashmir?
by Zubair Lone The Tata Sumo became Kashmirs people mover, connecting students, patients, workers and families while quietly transforming mobility across the region While on a guided tour of their Skill Development Centre, I spotted a chassis sitting on the shop floor. It looked modern yet strangely retro. Something about its proportions, the ladder frame []
Jammu Kashmir Govt Fixes Seven-Day Deadline for Eight Online Services
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has fixed a maximum period of seven working days for conducting field inspections related to eight online services under the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) of the Housing and Urban Development Department. The timeline will be counted from the date an inspection is scheduled or an application is received []
Candidate Declines Appointment as Deputy Medical Superintendent at GMC Srinagar
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has accepted the unwillingness of Dr Shaista Ganai to take up the post of Deputy Medical Superintendent at Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar, and treated her recommendation for the position as not considered. The decision was issued through Government Order No. 685-JK(HME) of 2026, dated September 10, by the []
Pakistani JeM terrorist's body found in J&K's Doda, M4 rifle recovered
Digital Desk | Jammu, Sept 12 (IANS) The body of a Pakistani Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist and his M4 rifle were recovered in J&Ks Doda district on Saturday, police said. Officials said that joint forces have retrieved the remains of the Jaish terrorist, who was killed earlier in a joint operation in Doda. You Can Run But You Can't Hide! the J&K Police wrote on its X handle. According to police, the operation was jointly carried out by its Special Operations Group (SOG) Doda, the Army's Rashtriya Rifles (RR), and the CRPF. The night-enabled M4 rifle was also recovered from the possession of the slain terrorist. The operation was carried out in the Seoj Dhar forest area connecting Dodas Bhaderwah with Udhampur and Kathua districts. The operation highlights ongoing anti-terror sweeps across Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban. Security measures and area domination patrols have intensified following earlier high-altitude gunfights and intelligence inputs regarding militant movement in the rugged upper reaches. Joint forces have scaled up combing and search operations in the upper reaches and dense forests of Doda to track down remaining threat networks. Security forces in the Jammu division have significantly intensified counter-terror operations, specifically targeting the rugged, high-altitude forest areas and mountain passes where foreign mercenaries have shifted their tactics. To counter this shift from urban to jungle warfare, the army deployed over 4,000 elite soldiers, including Para Commandos and specialised mountain warfare troops, across the hilly districts. Major operations carried out in Jammu division include Operation Sheruwali (Rajouri), a massive, multi-week joint operation led by the Indian Army, J&K Police, and the CRPF in the densely forested belts of Gambhir Mughlan and Dorimal (Manjakote sector). Security forces launched aggressive fire assaults on suspected cave hideouts where heavily armed groups were believed to be taking cover. In the Surankote & Mendhar woods in Poonch district, Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) have regularly targeted the thick foliage of Bhata Dhurian, Nar, and Surankote following intelligence tracking suspicious movement from the lower Pangai and frontier villages. Operations carried out in Kathua & Samba districts include those in Ding Amb and Sanyal Forests (Kathua). The operation, involving high-intensity, multi-tier combing operations, was launched covering several kilometres of rugged border terrain. Backed by helicopters, UAVs, and sniffer dogs, these operations uncovered heavily stocked hideouts containing grenades and gear matching those used by JeM groups.
BRICS Summit: Xi Jinping begins first India visit in 7 years
NEW DELHI: Chinese President Xi Jinping began a two-day visit to New Delhi to attend the BRICS Summit on Saturday, marking his first trip to India in seven years and signalling a key opportunity to normalise bilateral ties through expansion of trade and investment ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host President Xi for bilateral []
Dubai Job Promise: North Kashmir Resident Alleges Fraud
SRINAGAR: A resident of north Kashmirs Baramulla district has alleged that he was duped of money by an agent from Rafiabad on the promise of securing him a job in Dubai. Speaking to a local news channel, Fayaz alleged that he paid Rs 1.10 lakh to the agent after being assured of employment in Dubai. []
New Delhi , September 12 : Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in New Delhi on Saturday to attend the 18th BRICS summit. The Chinese President will also meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later today. On arrival, Xi received a warm welcome with a cultural troupe from the North East and other Indian states putting up a classical dance performances. The Chinese President Xi's entourage includes Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, and Wang Yi, Chinese foreign minister and a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, the Chinese news agency said. According to a Xinhua report, Xi Jinping is expected to advance proposals on Global South cooperation at the BRICS summit much as he did during the SCO Summit in Bishkek. The report stated that both groupings -- BRICS and SCO -- have expanded their membership and networks of developing partners. Their members together represent more than half of the worlds population and about 30 per cent of the global economy. The editorial noted that this year marks the 25th founding anniversary of the SCO and the 20th anniversary of the BRICS cooperation mechanism. Over the years, both groupings have expanded their membership and networks of developing partners. Xi has backed the expansion of both groupings and introduced initiatives including the BRICS Plus cooperation approach and the concept of building an SCO community with a shared future. At the SCO summit, XI called for stronger cooperation among countries of the Global South. The Chinese president said the SCO takes root in the Global South, its heart beats with the Global South, and it is an important pillar of South-South cooperation while noting that BRICS was standing at the forefront of the Global South. Emphasising Beijing's commitment to building a constructive relationship with New Delhi, Ambassador Xu Feihong stated that China intends to follow the framework established by both heads of state. China will work with India to act on the strategic guidance of the two leaders, handle the bilateral relations from a strategic height and long-term perspective, step up communication, enhance cooperation, properly handle differences, and be friends enjoying good-neighbourliness and partners helping each other succeed, the envoy said. Xi's visit is particularly significant, as it would mark his first trip to India since his informal meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Mamallapuram in 2019 for the 2nd India-China Informal Summit. The visit also comes against the backdrop of efforts by the two sides to stabilise bilateral ties following years of tensions along the Line of Actual Control. BRICS has emerged as a key platform for coordinating economic policy among major emerging economies. It serves as the principal forum where these nations shape a common position on global governance. Through sustained dialogue, it has become a channel for advancing the interests of the Global South within multilateral institutions. Its agenda spans development, finance, technology, trade and people-to-people exchanges. The grouping reflects the growing economic weight and aspirations of emerging economies globally. It provides members with a platform to share experiences and address common challenges. (ANI)
President Droupadi Murmu meets Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian in Delhi
New Delhi , September 12: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi. The meeting comes against the backdrop of Pezeshkians visit to India to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in the national capital. On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, continuing discussions from their meeting on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the two leaders discussed various aspects of the bilateral relationship, with PM Modi thanking Iran for its regular, high-level participation in BRICS-related meetings despite challenging circumstances. Prime Minister Modi also thanked Pezeshkian for participating in the Leaders' Session of the BRICS Business Forum and noted the potential of BRICS to build resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability among countries of the Global South. The two leaders exchanged views on the conflict in West Asia. PM Modi reiterated India's consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He also underscored the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce and the safety and well-being of seafarers, according to the MEA. In a post on X, PM Modi described the meeting as a continuation of the productive discussions held in Bishkek. From Bishkek to Delhi, the productive discussions continue. Happy to have met Dr Masoud Pezeshkian, the President of Iran. This visit is more special because it is his first visit to India. We talked about the India-Iran friendship. We believe that we should move forward with a long-term and win-win strategy. The prevailing situation in the region was also discussed. India remains steadfast in its commitment to the pursuit of enduring peace, the Prime Minister said. The two leaders also discussed Iran's participation in BRICS, with the Prime Minister appreciating continued cooperation between the two sides on issues of mutual interest in multilateral organisations, including BRICS. Iran, along with Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia and UAE, became a full member of BRICS from January 2024.
Police Raid 20 Waghama Locations, Pick Up 13 Suspected Peddlers
SRINAGAR, Sep 12: Police in Anantnag district on Saturday launched a major anti-narcotics operation at 20 locations in Waghama, identified as a drug hotspot, picking up 13 suspected drug peddlers for questioning and further legal action. The coordinated Narco Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) was aimed at identifying and dismantling the local network allegedly involved [] The post Police Raid 20 Waghama Locations, Pick Up 13 Suspected Peddlers appeared first on Northlines .
JeM terrorists remains, M4 rifle recovered in Doda
Doda, Sept 12 : Security forces on Saturday recovered the decomposed remains of a suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist along with an M4 rifle in the Divshetar area of Seoj Dhar in Doda district, officials said. A senior police officer told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that locals reported the sighting of a suspected decomposed body along with an M4 rifle in the general area of Divshetar on Saturday. Security forces have reached the area and are conducting further investigation to ascertain the identity of the deceased and establish other relevant details, the officer said. Meanwhile, J&K Police, in a post on X, said that SOG Doda, Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and CRPF retrieved the remains of a Pakistani Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist who had been neutralised earlier in a joint operation. You Can Run But You Cant Hide! the police said, adding that a night-enabled M4 rifle was also recovered.(KNO) Further Details Awaited.
Congress leader Harish Rawat Quits Party Posts After ED Seizes Cash, Jewellery From Aide
DEHRADUN, Sep 12: Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and Congress leader Harish Rawat on Saturday announced his decision to step down from all party posts after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) recovered cash, jewellery and luxury watches from the residence of his personal assistant. The ED seized Rs 32 lakh in cash and a dozen luxury wristwatches [] The post Congress leader Harish Rawat Quits Party Posts After ED Seizes Cash, Jewellery From Aide appeared first on Northlines .
Terror Probe: NIA Raids Multiple Locations Across Kashmir
SRINAGAR, Sep 12: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday conducted searches at multiple locations across Kashmir as part of its ongoing probe into a terror-related case, officials said. The raids were carried out at several locations in Kulgam and Bandipora districts and in the Sopore area of Baramulla district, they said. NIA teams carried [] The post Terror Probe: NIA Raids Multiple Locations Across Kashmir appeared first on Northlines .
New Delhi , September 12: Malaysia and Ethiopia have expressed their keenness for stronger defence cooperation with India on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit 2026, sources stated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed Ali at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, followed by meetings with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The meetings took Indias relations with the countries on a new trajectory. The leaders discussed joint personnel training as well as defence procurement from India. Both countries welcomed Indian industry and investment. According to sources, Ethiopia especially welcomed Indian mining companies. Meanwhile, Semiconductor opportunities were discussed with Malaysia. According to MEA, PM Modi and his Malaysian counterpart, Anwar Ibrahim, built further on PM Modis visit to Malaysia in February 2026, and reviewed the progress in bilateral cooperation across a range of areas, including trade and investment, defence and security, semiconductors, infrastructure, digital economy, energy, fintech, education, tourism and people-to-people ties. The leaders exchanged views on key regional and global issues of mutual interest. Malaysia's participation in the BRICS Leaders' Summit in New Delhi is in its capacity as a BRICS Partner Country, on the invitation of PM Modi. The Summit is the highest-level platform of BRICS, bringing together Heads of State and Government of BRICS Member and Partner Countries to discuss strategic issues relating to global governance, sustainable development, economic cooperation, trade and investment, digital transformation, and global challenges affecting developing countries, the Malaysian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. During his visit, Ibrahim is also scheduled to visit Keralam, where he will meet Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister VD Satheesan and the Grand Mufti of India, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, to exchange perspectives on community development, educational advancement, and interfaith harmony. Meanwhile, with Abiy Ahmed Ali, PM Modi discussed avenues to further strengthen the India-Ethiopia Strategic Partnership across sectors including economic, defence and security sectors. Both reiterated their collective voice for the Global South, as per the MEA. Both leaders also exchanged perspectives on regional and international developments of mutual interest.
CBI Nabs CGST Officer, Consultant In
NEW DELHI, Sep 12: The CBI has arrested a Superintendent in the office of the Commissioner of CGST and Central Excise and a CGST consultant in connection with an alleged 1-crore bribe case, officials said. The agency acted after registering an FIR on Wednesday on the complaint of the project head of a private realty [] The post CBI Nabs CGST Officer, Consultant In 1-Crore Bribe Case appeared first on Northlines .
Hafiz Saeed In Pakistan, NIA Tells Jammu Court; Secures 2nd Non-Bailable Warrant
Jammu, Sep 12: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed, Indias most-wanted terrorist, is in Pakistan, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) told a Special Court in Jammu while seeking and securing a second non-bailable warrant (NBW) against him in two months in a terror case linked to the supply of weapons, funds and directions to terror groups [] The post Hafiz Saeed In Pakistan, NIA Tells Jammu Court; Secures 2nd Non-Bailable Warrant appeared first on Northlines .
