CIK conducts multiple raids across valley, mobile phone seized in UAPA case
Srinagar, June 27 : The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) carried out multiple, simultaneous raids across the Kashmir Valley on Saturday as part of an ongoing investigation into a Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) case, official sources said. In a coordinated operation, CIK teams swooped down on locations in Srinagar, Ganderbal, and Anantnag districts. The searches are linked to FIR No. 07/2023, registered at the CIK's Police Station JIC in Srinagar under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the stringent UAPA, including provisions related to promoting enmity and criminal intimidation. Official sources told KNS that in Srinagar, a CIK team conducted a raid at the residence of Riyaz Ahmad Beigh, son of Noor Mohammad Beigh, originally from Maharaj Gunj but currently residing at Hokarsar near Shalteng Police Station for the last 16 years. The operation was stated to be in progress. In the central Kashmir district of Ganderbal, a team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) Nissar Ahmad carried out searches at the house of Syed Qalandar Shah, son of Barkat Shah, a resident of Chountwaliwar Lar. The search operation was underway when last reports came in. In the southern district of Anantnag, a CIK team, led by the local DySP and accompanied by NT Mudasir Yosuf Bhat, raided the residence of Gulzar Ahmad Rather (42), son of Abdul Gani Rather, of Nowgam, Kapran. Rather, a Class 10 pass out, has been serving as the Imam at Phali Masjid Nowgam since 2012, sources added. During the search at the Nowgam Verinag location, investigators recovered and seized a Redmi 9 Note Pro mobile phone, which was taken into custody for forensic examination in connection with the UAPA case, the sources said. Officials confirmed that the raid in the Anantnag district concluded peacefully without any untoward incident. Searches at the other locations in the valley were continuing and further details were awaited, they added. (KNS)
CIK Conducts Multiple Raids Across Kashmir Valley
Srinagar:The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) on Saturday carried out multiple raids at different locations across the Valley in connection with an ongoing investigation. Officials said that a CIK team from Srinagar raided the residence of Riyaz Ahmad Beigh, son of Noor Mohammad Beigh, originally from Dalal Mohalla, Maharaj Gunj, Srinagar, and presently residing at Hokarsar []
Pakistani intruder apprehended along LoC in J-Ks Poonch
Jammu: Army troops apprehended a 26-year-old infiltrator, a resident of PoK, along the LoC in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday, June 27. Mohammad Sajad was taken into custody after entering the Indian side from across the border through the Gulpur area of the Krishna Ghati sector on Friday, June Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
MLA, JMC Commissioner lay foundation stone for flood restoration works in Janipur
Jammu, Jun 26: MLA Jammu North Sham Lal Sharma and Jammu Municipal Corporation Commissioner Dr Devansh Yadav on Friday jointly laid the foundation stone for flood restoration works in Janipur. The project, under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), estimated at Rs 4.99 crore, covers Ward Nos. 34, 35, 36, 37 and 38 and aims at the restoration and upgradation of lanes, drains and allied infrastructure damaged by last year's rains and flash floods. Works will benefit residents of Janipur Colony, Main Chowk, Lakkar Mandi, Daily Excelsior Lane Area, Shivalikpuram Nagar, Shiv Vihar, Basant Nagar, Pamposh Colony and adjoining areas and include reconstruction of damaged lanes and drains, improvement of storm-water drainage systems and strengthening of public infrastructure. On the occasion, MLA Sharma said the Government is committed to rebuilding infrastructure damaged by natural calamities and that the restoration works would also enhance the resilience of civic infrastructure against future weather-related challenges. Dr Yadav said JMC is making sustained efforts to upgrade urban infrastructure across the city and that the project has been planned keeping in view the requirements of the affected areas. He directed officers and executing agencies to ensure time-bound execution at the highest standards of quality. Locals and area representatives welcomed the initiative and expressed gratitude to the Government and JMC for taking up the restoration works. Among those present were senior officers of JMC, local representatives, engineers and officials of departments concerned.
SANJY-2026: DC Bpora reviews arrangements at Shadipora
Bandipora, Jun 26: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib on Friday visited the Shadipora Transit Camp to assess the preparedness and review arrangements being put in place for the smooth conduct of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2026. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner inspected various facilities, including accommodation, sanitation, drinking water supply, electricity, healthcare services, security measures, and other essential amenities for the convenience of pilgrims. Emphasizing inter-departmental coordination, she stressed the importance of providing a seamless and comfortable experience to the pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage. Officials from various line departments accompanied the Deputy Commissioner and briefed her on the progress of the preparations. She instructed the officers to remain proactive in addressing any gaps and to ensure that all necessary facilities are fully operational before the commencement of the Yatra. Indu Kanwal Chib said that District Administration is committed to make all necessary arrangements for the successful and hassle-free conduct of SANJY-2026, ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of every pilgrim.
DLSA Gbal conducts district-wide awareness programs on World Drug Day
Ganderbal, Jun 26: In observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, and in compliance with the directions of the J&K Legal Services Authority under the NALSA (DAWN Drug Awareness and Wellness Navigation for a Drug-Free India) Scheme, 2025, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Ganderbal organized a series of awareness and outreach programmes across various locations of the district. The awareness programmes were organised under the Chairmanship of Abdul Nasir, Chairman, DLSA Ganderbal, and under the guidance of Sheikh Babar Hussain, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority, Ganderbal. The programmes were conducted by the Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) of DLSA Ganderbal at Benhama, Lar, Kondabal, Safapora, Bamloora and other areas of the district, where extensive interaction was held with members of the public, youth, students and shopkeepers. During the programmes, the participants were sensitized about the harmful effects of drug abuse, substance addiction and illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs. The PLVs highlighted the physical, psychological, social and legal consequences of drug abuse and encouraged the public, particularly the youth, to adopt a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. Awareness was also created regarding the availability of free legal aid, counselling services, rehabilitation facilities and other support mechanisms for persons affected by substance abuse under the NALSA (DAWN) Scheme. The participants appreciated the initiative and expressed their commitment towards spreading awareness against drug abuse and supporting collective efforts for building a drug-free society and safeguarding future generations from the menace of narcotic substances. As part of the continuing observance of the campaign and to further achieve the objectives of the NALSA Scheme, the DLSA will also organize awareness programmes in educational institutions of the district, with a special focus on sensitizing students about the dangers of drug abuse, preventive measures, legal awareness, rehabilitation support and the collective responsibility of society in ensuring a drug-free future. Through these sustained awareness initiatives, DLSA Ganderbal reiterates its commitment towards promoting preventive legal awareness, empowering communities and strengthening the collective fight against drug abuse in furtherance of the objectives envisaged under the NALSA Scheme, 2025.
30th Sindhu Darshan Yatra concludes in Leh
Leh, Jun 26: The six-day Pratham Sindhu Kumbh, marking the 30th Sindhu Darshan Yatra, concluded on Friday in Leh, Ladakh with a powerful message of national unity, cultural pride, and devotion. On the final day, thousands of pilgrims visited the sacred Sindhu Ghat and participated in the holy dip under the leadership of Indresh Kumar ji, National Executive Member, RSS. The grand farewell ceremony was held at the NDS Memorial Ground, Leh, attended by national leaders, spiritual leaders, organisers, and pilgrims from across India. The programme began with a vibrant cultural presentation, followed by an appreciation ceremony honouring the efforts of all organisers and volunteers. Addressing the gathering, Indresh Kumar ji delivered a strong message of nationality and unity. Over 3,000 attendees waved the Indian Tricolour and celebrated together, sending a powerful message of patriotism and commitment. With the successful conclusion of the first-ever Sindhu Kumbh, participants expressed great enthusiasm and excitement for the upcoming years celebrations. The organisers expressed heartfelt gratitude to LG Vinai Kumar Saxena, the entire Ladakh Administration, and the people of Ladakh for their warm welcome, cooperation, and exceptional arrangements that made this historic event a grand success.
DC Budgam, SSP oversee arrangements on 10th Muharram
Budgam, Jun 26: Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, along with SSP Budgam, Hari Prasad KK on Friday visited various areas in Budgam to oversee the arrangements and participated in the procession from Mirgund to Budgam. They were also accompanied by ADC Budgam, Additional SP Budgam, CPO Budgam, CMO Budgam, SDPO, Tehsildar, SHO and other concerned district officers. Elaborate arrangements for security, traffic management, parking, electricity, water supply, health and medical facilities, sanitation have been put in place. The DC along with SSP also participated in serving water and refreshments to the mourners at various points enroute. The DC expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, departments, community members and volunteers to their active role in ensuring smooth and peaceful conduct of the Muharram processions across the district.
Yom-e-Ashura: KU holds social service camp at Zadibal
Srinagar, Jun 26: The Department of Students' Welfare (DSW), University of Kashmir, on Friday organised a Social Service Camp at Imam Bara, Zadibal, on Youm-e-Ashura. Officers, officials and student volunteers of the University actively participated in the humanitarian initiative by serving safe packaged drinking water and juice to thousands of mourners and visitors throughout the day. The camp was organised to honour the timeless message of sacrifice, justice and compassion embodied by Hazat Imam Hussain (A.S.). The initiative reflected the University's continued commitment to community outreach, humanitarian service and social responsibility while extending assistance to the mourners participating in the Ashura observances. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said that the observance of Youm-e-Ashura serves as a reminder of the universal values of truth, justice, sacrifice and commitment to humanity. She remarked that the legacy of Hazrat Imam Hussain (A.S.) continues to inspire people across generations to uphold righteousness, dignity and compassion even in the face of adversity. She emphasised that universities have a vital role in nurturing socially responsible citizens, and such initiatives provide students with an opportunity to transform these ideals into meaningful action through selfless service. She appreciated the dedication of the volunteers and reaffirmed the University's commitment to promoting the spirit of humanity, inclusiveness and community engagement. Registrar, Prof. Nasser Iqbal, said that serving the mourners on the sacred occasion of Yom-e-Ashura is a humble tribute to the enduring values of Karbala. He observed that the University remains committed to strengthening its bond with society through initiatives that promote compassion, mutual respect and collective responsibility. He appreciated the efforts of the Department of Students' Welfare and the volunteers for rendering dedicated service with sincerity and devotion. Dean Students' Welfare, Prof. Seema Singh, said that the Social Service Camp embodies the University's vision of encouraging students to actively participate in humanitarian activities and community welfare. She noted that the spirit of Youm-e-Ashura inspires values of sacrifice, empathy and service and expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic participation of student volunteers who worked tirelessly throughout the programme to assist the mourners. Among the other notable functionaries of the University, Dean, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Prof. Pervez Ahmed who also attended the camp said that the message of Karbala transcends religious and geographical boundaries, inspiring humanity with the ideals of courage, justice, patience and selfless sacrifice. He stated that educational institutions should continue to create opportunities that encourage students to practise these values through meaningful engagement with society, thereby contributing to a more compassionate and responsible community. Cultural Officer, Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, said that Youm-e-Ashura represents a profound lesson in humanity, resilience and service to others. He remarked that the Social Service Camp offered students a meaningful opportunity to translate these values into action by serving the mourners with humility and dedication. He appreciated the commitment shown by the volunteers and said such initiatives strengthen the University's culture of social responsibility and humanitarian service. The Social Service Camp was widely appreciated by mourners and members of the public, who acknowledged the University's continued commitment to humanitarian outreach and community service during important religious occasions.
US strikes Iran in response to drone attack on ship that Trump says violated ceasefire
Washington, Jun 27: The US struck Iran on Friday in response to a drone attack a day earlier on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. It's the most significant test yet to an interim understanding reached a week ago by the two countries to begin working to end their months-long war and reopen the pivotal waterway. US President Donald Trump said the drone attack violated the ceasefire. The strikes came shortly after Trump told reporters, You'll find out, whether the US would respond. US Central Command said the military struck missile and drone locations and coastal radar sites in Iran. I don't like the fact that they took a shot yesterday, actually four of them, Trump said at the White House shortly before the US struck back. When asked why there would be strikes when Trump has insisted talks with Tehran are going well, Trump said of Iran, They're a little bit different. He then abruptly cut off questions and reporters were ushered out of his office. Ebrahim Azizi, who heads the Iranian parliament's national security commission, responded to Trump on social media earlier Friday, saying, The Strait of Hormuz is governed by Iran, so: Respect the rules and to ot mistake control for escalation. This is not a violation of the ceasefire; it is ceasefire management, Azizi wrote. Strikes conclude an hour later -------------------------------- The US strikes on Iran concluded about an hour after US Central Command announced the military action on social media, a US official with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing military operation. The British military said on Thursday that a container ship was hit by a projectile off the coast of Oman, coming hours after Iran threatened vessels to stop using the route. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said no injuries were reported. The development came during a fragile time for the US and Iran as they work to negotiate a permanent end to the war. Iran has increasingly challenged the region and the US over its control of the Strait of Hormuz, even with the current interim deal it reached with the US last week. The attack on the cargo ship happened while a United Nations maritime agency was beginning an operation to move stranded ships out of the strait this week, using an alternative route, hugging the shores of Oman rather than sailing through the central part of the strait. The International Maritime Organisation halted the evacuations after the attack and said on Friday they won't resume until there are guarantees that the other ships won't be attacked. About 115 ships were able to move out of the strait in recent days, leaving about 500 still in the area, said Arsenio Dominguez, the agency's secretary-general. The opening of the alternative passage through the strait was expected to relieve pressure on the world economy and remove Iran's main source of leverage in ongoing peace talks with the US. The US and Iran are still negotiating terms of the deal, including issues such as getting ships through the key strait and addressing the future of Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Under the interim deal, the two sides have 60 days to work out the details. Cargo ship attack poses a test for shipping ---------------------------------------------- Shipping analysts said the drone strike cast a shadow over what had been a growing stream of trapped vessels finally leaving the Gulf and an increasing flow of tankers carrying crude oil. A week of widening commercial confidence in the Strait of Hormuz has hit its first significant test, said marine data company Windward on X. It said that while the strait remains operationally open with 43 transits recorded after the incident, he pace of normalisation has slowed. On Wednesday, 78 vessels transited the strait, the highest since the war began, although below the pre-war averages of 130 or more per day. At least two tankers reversed course while attempting to transit the strait on the UN-backed route near Oman after Iran insisted vessels use only the Teheran-approved routes, according to marine data and analytic firm Lloyd's List Intelligence. More than two dozen ships were still transiting the strait's southern route after the attack, Lloyd's said Friday. Lebanon and Israel make a step toward peace -------------------------------------------------- Ambassadors from Israel and Lebanon announced an agreement Friday described as a step toward peace following months of conflict between Israeli troops and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Nada Hamadeh, Lebanon's ambassador to the US, called the framework a move toward enabling our people to go back to their land and allowing all Lebanese to live in peace, security, and prosperity. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the plan was a great achievement for Israel. The most important thing, first and foremost, is that Israel will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon, he said, adding that they will stay until Hezbollah is disarmed and no longer poses a threat to Israel. (AP)
Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi to participate in funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Iran SRINAGAR/BUDGAM: Under the auspices of Anjuman Sharie Shian Jammu and Kashmir, solemn religious commemorations marking Youm-e-Ashura were observed across the Kashmir Valley with deep reverence and devotion, with scores of Zuljanah processions taken out in different parts of the Valley drawing []
Minister Sharma joins Ashura procession at Zadibal
SRINAGAR: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Friday joined the Ashura procession at Zadibal, where he paid homage to the unparalleled sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. The Minister participated in the procession alongside thousands of mourners, reflecting []
CM Omar meets former J&K Governor N. N. Vohra
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday met former Governor of Jammu & Kashmir N. N. Vohra, in Srinagar. The meeting was marked by a warm and engaging interaction, during which the two exchanged views on a range of issues concerning Jammu & Kashmir. The discussions drew upon Shri Vohras vast administrative experience and his []
Dy CM calls for united fight against drug abuse
RAJOURI: Reaffirming the administrations zero-tolerance approach to narcotics, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Friday led a massive anti-drug campaign in Nowshera held to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The Department of Social Welfare, under the overall supervision of the district administration Rajouri, organised a Walkathon, Signature Campaign, and []
Police conduct sniper response mock drill in Anantnag
ANANTNAG: In view of the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026, J&K Police in Anantnag conducted a specialised Sniper Response Mock Drill at Batangoo along the Yatra route as part of its comprehensive security preparedness for the annual pilgrimage. The exercise was aimed at assessing the operational readiness, precision engagement capabilities, and swift response of specially []
Bukhari welcomes prominent NC leaders, workers, activists into Apni Party
SRINAGAR: The ruling National Conference (NC) suffered a major setback on Friday in the Natipora area of the Chanapora constituency as dozens of its prominent leaders, workers, and activists resigned from the party en masse and joined the Apni Party. On this occasion, Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari extended a warm welcome to []
PSAJK to launch Srinagar Declaration 2026 across schools Green Campus initiative gains momentum
SRINAGAR: The Private Schools Association of Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) participated in a high-level seminar on Protection of the Natural Environment of J&K organised by the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC), J&K, under the chairmanship of Khursheed Ahmad Ganai (Retd. IAS), with Dr. Karan Singh, former Sadr-e-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir, eminent scholar, and distinguished []
SANJY-2026: NDMA conducts mock exercise to test emergency preparedness along Baltal Axis GANDERBAL: As part of the ongoing preparations for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Friday conducted a comprehensive multi-agency mock exercise along the Baltal axis to assess emergency preparedness, strengthen inter-departmental coordination and ensure swift []
Police observe intl day against drug abuse & illicit trafficking
SRINAGAR: On the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, J&K Police in Baramulla organized a meaningful awareness and counseling programme at the Police Drug De-Addiction Centre, Baramulla. The event witnessed the participation of recovered patients and their family members, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in overcoming substance abuse. During []
Budgam artist uses calligraphy, painting to serve Muharram
Mir Latif Hussain, JMI graduate, says calligraphy, painting are his way of fulfilling responsibility during sacred month Budgam, Jun 26: Every person has a different responsibility during Muharram. For Budgams multidisciplinary artist Mir Latif Hussain, that responsibility lies in calligraphy and painting. As the month of Muharram begins, Hussain spends his days preparing posters, paintings and banners for mourners and processions, using his art to express remembrance and devotion. I see that with time, a persons responsibility increases. Since it is Muharram, I do calligraphy and make paintings related to Muharram. Every person has a different responsibility and, as an artist, I try to fulfil mine in this way, Hussain told Rising Kashmir. The artist from Wahabpora recently completed a large painting measuring 16 by 17 feet at Imam Bara Bemina, a work that has drawn attention on social media. Recently, I made a large painting measuring 16 by 17 feet at Imam Bara Bemina. It has become quite famous, he said. One of Hussains recent paintings is titled Mithli La Yubayiu Mithlahu, an Arabic phrase attributed to Imam Hussain (AS) and commonly translated as, A person like me cannot pledge allegiance to a person like him. Explaining the idea behind the work, Hussain referred to the popular Urdu verse, They got Hussains head, but never his allegiance, saying it inspired the painting. I made this painting on that title. Imam Hussain had said this to Yazid, and this painting is based on that, he said. A graduate in Fine Arts from the University of Kashmir and a Masters in Painting from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, Hussain said his journey in art formally began in 2016,though he had been drawing since childhood. Before that, I worked on my own without guidance. I joined Fine Arts in 2016 and completed my bachelors degree. After that, I got admission to Jamia Millia University and completed my Masters there, he said. His participation in exhibitions and interactions with artists from outside Kashmir, he said, broadened his understanding of art and practice. I received a national award at the Kochi Biennale and another from Ranchi University in 2018. By participating in different universities and exhibitions, I learned a lot because artists outside Kashmir work very hard, he said. Hussain also sees technology as a support for artists seeking references and developing ideas. I think AI is good for artistry because artists can take help from it. Earlier, there was no such technology, and artists could only use Google for references. Now, artists can get many references and develop their ideas, he said.
Peace spurs revival of border tourism along LoC villages in Kashmir
Srinagar, Jun 26: With normalcy returning to Kashmirs border areas, tourism is witnessing a revival along villages situated near the Line of Control (LoC), bringing renewed hope to local communities dependent on the sector. From Uri in north Kashmirs Baramulla district to Karnah in Kupwara and Gurez in Bandipora, a growing number of local and non-local tourists are once again visiting these scenic destinations, boosting the prospects of border tourism. Among the most popular attractions is Kaman Post in the Uri sector, a strategically significant location along the LoC that offers visitors a view of the other side of the border. Official figures show that 2,757 tourists visited Kaman Post during the first five months of 2026, reflecting a steady increase in footfall. Tourists have started returning to the LoC villages. In Uri, visitors prefer destinations such as Kaman Post, Nambla Waterfall and Limber Waterfall. As peace has returned, tourists have also started making a comeback, which is a positive sign, said Lal Hussain Kohli, a resident of Charunda village in Uri. Locals say the revival of tourism is vital for the economic well-being of border communities.Tourism is the backbone of the border areas. Now that tourists have returned, the government should create more facilities and infrastructure to attract a larger number of visitors, said Bashir Ahmad Wathloo, a member of the civil society in Uri. Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Uri, Prince Kumar said Kaman Post continues to be a major attraction for visitors. Tourists primarily come to see Kaman Post along the LoC. However, we are exploring ways to develop and promote other destinations under the border tourism initiative, and the government has sought a comprehensive plan in this regard, he said. In Kupwara district, border destinations such as Keran, Teetwal and Karnah have also regained popularity among tourists. As peace has returned, tourists have started visiting the border areas again, said Raja Waqar, a civil society member from Karnah. He said several facilities developed by the Indian Army have helped attract visitors to the region. People come to see the Teetwal Crossing Bridge, Sharda Temple and the Kishanganga River. These attractions have significantly boosted tourist interest in the area, he said. Waqar also urged authorities to simplify the permission process and ease security frisking procedures to encourage more tourists to visit the border belt. Another local resident, Khushal Khawaja, said a number of recent initiatives have further enhanced the appeal of Karnah and surrounding areas. Tourists visit Sadhna Top, the Pahari Cultural Centre Museum, the War Museum, Sadhna Caf and various viewpoints. Several new restaurants have reopened, while Keran has developed homestay facilities for visitors, he said. SDM Karnah, Mohd Raiyaz, said the border areas of Kupwara are witnessing a healthy flow of tourists. Visitors come to see attractions such as Sharda Temple, Sadhna Caf and several other scenic spots across the region, he said. Earlier this month, the Kupwara district administration, in collaboration with the Indian Army, launched the 'Shumali Kashmir' Tourism Portal and the North Kashmir Tourism Magazine to promote border tourism and showcase the region's vast tourism potential. The initiatives were unveiled during a tourism promotion event aimed at attracting more visitors to north Kashmir's border destinations. Reportedly more than three lakh tourists have visited various destinations in Kupwara district, while Gurez valley has recorded nearly 60,000 visitors. Gurez, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique culture, has also emerged as a major attraction under the border tourism initiative. Tourists from across India are visiting the Gurez border area once again after the return of peace, said a local resident of Gurez. With tourist arrivals steadily increasing across the LoC belt, residents and officials alike hope that improved infrastructure and sustained peace will further strengthen border tourism and create new livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Sikh youth serve water to mourners
Srinagar, Jun 26: Srinagar's Zadibal area once again witnessed an example of communal harmony as young members of the Sikh community served refreshments to mourners during the Zuljanah procession on Friday. As thousands of mourners joined the Zuljanah procession from Bota Kadal-Zadibal to commemorate the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at Karbala,the Sikh volunteers were seen distributingdrinking water to the participants amid the scorching heat. The gesture, witnessed by scores of mourners, reflected the Valley's long-standing tradition of mutual respect and brotherhood among different communities. Many participants welcomed the initiative, describing it as a symbol of Kashmir's shared cultural ethos and communal amity. Local residents said such acts of goodwill have become a familiar sight during major religious occasions in the area, where people from different faiths often come together to extend support and assistance irrespective of religious affiliations. The volunteers said their participationwasaimed at serving humanity and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood. They expressed hope that such initiatives would continue to promote peace, harmony and mutual understanding among communities. The Zuljanah procession passed through its designated route under elaborate security arrangements before concluding peacefully.
Eternal guide to equality: LGs tribute to Imam Hussains sacrifice
Joins Zuljinah procession, serves refreshments among mourners Srinagar, Jun 26: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday joined the Zuljinah procession at Zadibal in Srinagar on the solemn occasion of Youm-e-Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, paying tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. I pay humble tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. Their supreme sacrifice for peace, love, and compassion remains an eternal guide to building a society rooted in equality and harmony. Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) gave the timeless message of selfless service and compassion for the underprivileged. The society must draw inspiration from his noble life and virtues, walking the righteous path of truth, justice, and humanity, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also served refreshments among the mourners, joining the community in observing the solemn occasion.
Youm-e-Ashura: Kashmir remembers Karbala martyrs
Emotions run high as Zadibal witnesses largest Zuljanah procession Srinagar, Jun 26: Youm-e-Ashura, marking the 10th of Muharram and commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions in Karbala, was observed with religious zeal and fervour across Jammu & Kashmir, with thousands of mourners carrying out the Zuljanah procession in Srinagar. The day commemorates the supreme sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) - the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) - and his companions in the historic Battle of Karbala on the 10th of Muharram, 61 AH. The Zuljanah procession was carried out at around 10:30 AM from Imam Bargah Gulshan Bagh Bota Kadal to Zadibalhereamidthetight security arrangements. The Zuljanah was ritually draped with the traditional chaddar before the procession commenced. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who joined the mourners this afternoon, also offered a chaddar to Zuljinah. Besides, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Inspector General of Police Kashmir Zone, V K Birdi and several other top officials from the police and civil administration visited Zadibal here and joined the mourners. As soon as the procession commenced, the mourners, including men, women and children, marched alongside the Zuljanah, representing the horse of Imam Hussain (AS). The stretch from Botakadal to Zadibal remained packed throughout the day as a sea of mournersengaged in reciting the Nouha and chest-beatingto commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions in Karbala. Pertinently, the traditional route began from Abi Guzar near Lal Chowk, passed through Basant Bagh, Habba Kadal, Nalamar, and ended at Zadibal, but was discontinued by the administration for the last few decades. Additionally, along the roadside, a number of NGOs, political parties, departments and district administration had organised Sabeel where the volunteers and the officials were seen busy distributing water, food items and other things. Notably, security personnel were deployed in strength and traffic diversions were put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the procession. The traffic police had issued an advisoryfor thepeople to ensure the smooth procession in Zadibal. In a statement, the traffic policehadsaid that to ensure smooth movement and public convenience, the following route diversions will be in place, Traffic moving towards Zadibal will be diverted at Firdous Cinema, Mill Stop, Lal Bazar and Bota Kadal. Furthermore, the other areas witnessing Ashura procession include Budgam (from Gazi Manzil to Imambargah Yousufabad, Magam, Iskinderpora Beerwah, Sonpah, Anantnag, Baramulla, Pulwama, and Kulgam and remote areas of Ladakh, including Turtuk, Partappora, and Chushut. Prominent areas in Kashmir, such as Baarji Harwan, Bemina, Mirgund, Hanjiveera, Balhama, Panear, Tral, Devsar Kulgam, Sofipora Pahalgam, Chattergul, Achabal, Dangerpora, and Sonawari also witnessed processions.
Detect, Disrupt, Destroy: Amit Shah's roadmap to eliminate drug network
Unveils vision document on drug control; targets Rs 6,000 crore narcotics destruction Next 3 years will decide Be ruthless on traffickers Be sympathetic to victims Reconnect children with life Victory will be ours New Delhi, Jun 26: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Friday said that the country stands at a critical turning point in the fight against narcotics, where the next three years will decide whether addiction will defeat us or we will defeat addiction. For the future of the country over the next 100 years, we must win this battle with firm determination and collective efforts, and that this fight cannot be waged by any single department, state, government, or individual, Shah said while chairing the 10th apex-level meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) in New Delhi. He released the 'Vision Document on Drug Control (2026-2029)' and the 'NCB Annual Report-2025', and launched the 'Online Drugs Disposal Fortnight Campaign' with a target to destroy narcotics weighing 2,09,500 kilograms valued at Rs 6,000 crore. In his address, the Home Minister said the roadmap from 2026 to 2029 is based on four major pillars: Enforcement, Intelligence and Operations; Precursors and Synthetic Drug Control; Demand and Harm Reduction; and Capacity Building, Coordination and Monitoring. Its aim is to conduct targeted intelligence-led action against the entire network and destroy it completely. The roadmap has been prepared keeping in mind the Whole of Government Approach and Whole of Society Approach. Shah described the fight against drugs in three words: Detect, Disrupt and Destroy. He emphasized that we must use HUMINT, technical intelligence, and community policing to destroy all three types of cartels. Under Disrupt, we must hit drug traffickers at every level with the full force of the law, and through PMLA and ED, conduct financial investigations against drug traffickers very ruthlessly. Under Destroy, we must ruthlessly finish the networks in such a way that they do not rise again. We must maintain a ruthless approach towards those involved in drug trafficking and a sympathetic approach towards the victims of drugs. It is our compassion and goodwill that can reconnect these children with a normal life, he added. The Union Home Minister directed that states should convert their Anti-Narcotics Task Forces (ANTFs) into full-time, dedicated, well-equipped, and accountable units. State Police Chiefs must make financial investigation mandatory in major NDPS cases and ensure real-time data sharing. The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken up the matter with all High Courts to set up special courts for speedy disposal of major cases. States must develop mechanisms to accelerate action through Red Corner Notices, extradition processes, and the CBI against drug smugglers hiding abroad. Amit Shah said that between 2004 and 2014, drugs worth Rs 40,000 crore were seized, while from 2014 to 2026, drugs worth Rs 1,84,000 crore have been seized. Similarly, illegal opium crop destruction has increased from 10,000 acres in 2020 to 42,282 acres in 2025. Between 2004 and 2014, 1,73,000 cases were registered, while from 2014 to 2026, 8,75,000 cases have been registered. During the meeting, the Union Home Minister e-inaugurated NCB zonal offices in Jammu and Guwahati. The meeting was attended by senior officials from various ministries, states, and central agencies. If we fight this battle together and in unity, victory will definitely be ours, and in the next three years, we will make massive progress towards eliminating drug networks in India, Shah said.
Deputy CM calls for united fight against drug abuse in Nowshera
Rajouri, June 26: Reaffirming the administrations zero-tolerance approach to narcotics, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Friday led a massive anti-drug campaign in Nowshera held to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The Department of Social Welfare, under the overall supervision of the district administration Rajouri, organised a Walkathon, Signature Campaign, and Anti-Drug Pledge at Sub-District Headquarters Nowshera to strengthen the community resolve against substance abuse. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister stressed that eradicating drug abuse is a collective responsibility of the society. He underscored the vital role of parents in closely monitoring their children to prevent them from falling into life-threatening habits. The Deputy CM called upon the public to actively support the administration in identifying the drug abuse victims so they can receive timely treatment and rehabilitation. He also asked them to share information on drug traffickers to enable strict action against those endangering the lives of local youth. Additional Deputy Commissioner Nowshera, Dr. Pritam Lal Thapa, also spoke on the occasion. He appealed to the public to extend full support to the administration in bringing drug abuse victims into the mainstream through proper treatment, and to help identify those involved in trafficking. Earlier, District Social Welfare Officer Rajouri, highlighted the significance of the day and created awareness about the ill effects of drug abuse. He also briefed the gathering on initiatives taken by the District Administration for treatment and rehabilitation of the victims. The Walkathon was flagged off by the Deputy Chief Minister from PWD Dak Bungalow Nowshera which culminated at the Tehsil Office. More than 500 participants, including students, officials, civil society members and locals, enthusiastically took part in the event.
Hakeem Yaseen Pays Tributes to Martyrs of Karbala
Srinagar, June 26: President of Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) and former Minister, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen, paid rich tributes to Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala on the solemn occasion of Youm-e-Ashura, remembering their unparalleled sacrifice for truth, justice, and the dignity of humanity. In his message, Hakeem Yaseen said that the tragedy of Karbala, despite having occurred more than 1,400 years ago, continues to resonate deeply across generations and remains one of the most powerful examples of courage, sacrifice, and steadfastness in human history. He said Imam Hussain (AS), along with his family members and loyal companions, laid down their lives while standing firmly against oppression, tyranny, and injustice. He said the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) was not merely a historical event but a universal message for all mankind. Karbala teaches that truth and justice must always prevail over falsehood and oppression, regardless of the cost. The stand taken by Imam Hussain (AS) continues to inspire millions across the world to remain steadfast in the face of adversity.
Satish Sharma joins Ashura procession at Zadibal
Srinagar, June 26: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Friday joined the Ashura procession at Zadibal, where he paid homage to the unparalleled sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. The Minister participated in the procession alongside thousands of mourners, reflecting solidarity with the people commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), whose message of truth, justice, compassion and steadfastness continues to inspire humanity across generations. Speaking on the occasion, Satish Sharma said that the sacrifices made at Karbala uphold timeless values of righteousness, courage and resistance against oppression. He observed that the teachings of Imam Hussain (AS) transcend all boundaries and continue to guide society towards peace, justice and communal harmony. The Minister also interacted with the mourners and reviewed the arrangements made for smooth conduct of the procession. He appreciated the coordinated efforts of the district administration, police, health services, municipal bodies and volunteers in ensuring that the observance was held in a peaceful, orderly and dignified manner. MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, accompanied the Minister during the procession. Satish Sharma prayed for lasting peace, prosperity and communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir. He extended his respects to all those observing Ashura, expressing hope that the values of sacrifice, unity and compassion embodied by Imam Hussain (AS) continue to inspire the society towards harmony and justice.
Ashraf Mir flags governance failures at Srinagar meet
Srinagar, June 26: Apni Party Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir on Friday chaired a workers meeting in Illahibagh area of Srinagar to discuss public grievances, governance issues and organisational matters. The meeting, held at the residence of District Youth Wing Vice President Muddassir Bhat, witnessed participation from hundreds of party workers and local residents. Apni Party Youth Wing President Yawar Dilawar Mir also attended the gathering. Addressing the meeting, Ashraf Mir and Yawar Mir criticised the National Conference (NC)-led government, alleging that it had failed to fulfil key promises related to development, employment generation and improved governance. They said people were growing increasingly disillusioned as assurances made during elections had not translated into tangible results on the ground. The people were promised progress and better governance, but those commitments remain unfulfilled, they said, adding that citizens were now demanding accountability from elected representatives. Several participants at the meeting also expressed dissatisfaction over what they termed unfulfilled promises and voiced support for Apni Party leader Muddassir Bhat, stating that they preferred leadership that remains accessible and responsive to public issues. Speaking on the occasion, Muddassir Bhat thanked the participants for their support and assured them that the Apni Party would continue to highlight public issues and work for people-centric development in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting concluded with party leaders reaffirming their commitment to public service and calling for greater accountability in governance.
Prominent NC workers switch to Apni Party in Natipora
Srinagar, June 26: In a significant political development, several prominent leaders, senior workers, and activists of the National Conference (NC) from Natipora in Chanapora constituency resigned from the party en masse on Friday and joined the Apni Party. The joining took place during a workers meeting organised by Apni Party Ward President Natipora, Arjumand Makhdoomi, which was held to discuss local public grievances and party-related issues. Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari welcomed the new entrants into the party fold and expressed hope that their inclusion would strengthen the partys organisational base in the Natipora area. He assured them that the Apni Party would serve as a platform dedicated to addressing public issues effectively. Addressing the meeting, Bukhari urged party workers to intensify public outreach across Srinagar, stating that people were disillusioned with the performance of the ruling party. He alleged that the National Conference had failed to fulfil key electoral promises, including job creation, regularisation of daily wagers, free electricity, LPG cylinders, and enhanced ration support. People have now realised they were misled by false promises, he said. Bukhari further said that major issues such as restoration of statehood, employment generation, detainee release, and simplification of passport-related processes could only be addressed through engagement with the Union Government. He also reiterated his call for a structured dialogue between the Centre and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Several former NC leaders and workers, including Halqa President Mohammad Amin Bhat and others, formally joined the Apni Party on the occasion. Senior party leaders including Vice President District Srinagar Aijaz Ahmad Rather, Ward President Budshah Nagar Imran Lone, and Member Committee District Srinagar Afroza Khan were also present.
Outsourcing is systematic privatisation of jobs: Sajad Lone
Slams PDP over brownie points on outsourcing issue Srinagar, June 26: J&K Peoples Conference president and MLA Handwara Sajad Lone on Friday said that the outsourcing of government jobs poses a far greater threat to employment in Jammu and Kashmir than backdoor appointments, accusing the National Conference (NC) government of converting public sector posts into privately managed positions. Lone said the ongoing debate over employment practices was being distorted for political gains, cautioning that mischaracterising outsourcing as backdoor appointments undermines the seriousness of the issue affecting thousands of young job-seekers. These are not backdoor appointments. These are outsourced government jobs, and the distinction is extremely important, he said, adding that the government itself had confirmed in the Assembly that around 25,000 posts had been outsourced. He described outsourcing as a systematic privatisation of public employment, arguing that it creates a structure where private agencies and the ruling establishment benefit at the cost of job security for ordinary youth. He warned that such a system makes employment unstable, with future governments free to change outsourcing agencies, leaving workers vulnerable. Lone also referred to the outsourcing of posts under Mission Vatsalya (formerly ICPS), saying he had originally helped establish the child protection framework during his tenure as Social Welfare Minister, including district-level protection mechanisms. He said that after 2019, the then administration had attempted to outsource ICPS appointments and terminate contractual workers, a move he had opposed. While court intervention stayed parts of the decision, he said several recruitments remained unresolved. Expressing disappointment, Lone said he had expected the elected government to reverse these decisions, but instead it had proceeded with outsourcing remaining ICPS posts. He criticised the governments responses in the Assembly as arrogant and evasive. Referring to the NCs poll promises, Lone said the party had pledged to create one lakh government jobs but had instead converted thousands of government posts into outsourced positions. He said he would soon release a detailed case study on the issue. He also urged the PDP not to confuse outsourcing with backdoor appointments for political convenience, saying such misrepresentation allows the NC to escape accountability.
Omar seeks stronger J&KHimachal education ties
Meets Bihar Assembly Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Education Minister Srinagar, June 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah yesterday evening held separate meetings with distinguished visitors from Bihar and Himachal Pradesh at his residence in Srinagar, discussing issues of mutual interest and avenues for greater inter-governmental cooperation. Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, Dr. Prem Kumar, called on the Chief Minister. During the meeting, the two leaders exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, emphasizing the importance of strengthening inter-governmental cooperation, democratic institutions and the exchange of legislative best practices. The Chief Minister welcomed the Speaker to Jammu and Kashmir and wished him a pleasant stay. Later, Himachal Pradesh Minister for School Education, Rohit Thakur, called on the Chief Minister. He was accompanied by State Project Director Rajesh Sharma; Director, School Education, Himachal Pradesh, Ashish Kumar Kohli; Additional Secretary School Education (HP), Anil Chauhan and faculty members associated with Samagra Shiksha, Himachal Pradesh. The meeting featured a constructive exchange of views on key initiatives in the education sector, with discussions focusing on strengthening school education, promoting innovation in teaching and learning, enhancing institutional collaboration and facilitating the sharing of best practices between the two Himalayan regions. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underscored the importance of quality education as the cornerstone of sustainable development and highlighted the value of inter-governmental collaboration in improving learning outcomes. He expressed confidence that such engagements would further deepen cooperation between Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh in the field of education and contribute to the adoption of innovative and effective educational practices. Minister for Education Sakina Itoo, Members of Legislative Assembly Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed and Mushtaq Guroo and other officials were also present during the occasion.
Majority backs Er Rashid as MP : AIP
Party says 746 of 773 delegates opposed resignation, 24 supported it, 3 abstained Srinagar, June 26: A two day internal consultation and secret ballot conducted by the Awami Ittehad Party, AIP, has overwhelmingly rejected the proposal that jailed Member of Parliament Er Rashid should resign from the Lok Sabha. According to the party, 746 out of 773 delegates voted against his resignation, while 24 supported the proposal and three remained undecided. The secret ballot was held after Er Rashid reportedly conveyed to the party leadership his intention to step down as MP, citing his prolonged incarceration, which the party said had limited his ability to remain connected with his electorate. Independent observers Parvaiz Ahmad Bhat and Aijaz Yousuf Shah, who supervised the exercise, said they had no political affiliation with AIP and were invited solely to ensure a free and fair process. They stated that delegates from all 18 Assembly segments of the Baramulla Parliamentary constituency participated in 12 meetings held over two days. Each session lasted around 90 minutes and included discussions on public opinion collected from different sections of society before participants cast their votes through a secret ballot. The observers described the process as transparent, impartial and conducted according to the participants' conscience. In its statement, AIP thanked the delegates, civil society members and the observers for their participation in what it called a unique democratic exercise. The party said it had sought permission to hold the event at Tagore Hall in Srinagar but was not granted approval. AIP maintained that the ballot reflected public confidence in Er Rashid's leadership despite his continued detention in Tihar Jail. The party rejected claims that his 2024 Lok Sabha victory was driven only by sympathy, asserting that the result represented support for his political ideology and long standing public work. The party also renewed its demand for Er Rashid's release, alleging that his detention was politically motivated. It argued that his willingness to resign demonstrated selflessness and commitment to the people of J&K rather than a desire for political office. AIP said the outcome of the secret ballot would be conveyed to Er Rashid through his legal team. While urging him to respect the sentiments expressed by the delegates and the public, the party added that the final decision on whether to continue as MP rests entirely with him.
From Noon Chai to Cola Culture
Lifestyle diseases are striking the young while the system looks away Hypertension, diabetes, heart attacks at frighteningly young ages, obesity, and mental health disorders are no longer rare medical terms; they are turning into everyday realities in neighbourhoods across the Valley. This health crisis did not arrive overnight. It has been carefully engineered by our changing way of life. The traditional Kashmiri routine, physically demanding work, long walks, simple diets, and early nights, has been replaced by a toxic cocktail: long hours of idleness, screen addiction, junk food, latenight social media marathons, and chronic stress. Add to this the easy availability of sugary drinks and fast food on every corner, and we have designed a perfect breeding ground for disease. Hospitals in Srinagar and other districts tell the story more bluntly than any statistic. OPDs are crowded with patients complaining of chest pain, uncontrolled sugar, high blood pressure, anxiety, and depression. Doctors quietly admit that they now see heart attacks in people in their early thirties, strokes in the forties, and advanced diabetes before fifty. A society once praised for its resilience is now buckling under the weight of its own habits. The response so far has been timid and fragmented: occasional awareness drives, a few posters in hospitals, some social media campaigns. But awareness without action is a cruel joke. Where are the sustained, schoolbased programmes to teach children about nutrition and exercise? Where are the communitylevel screenings in villages and urban mohallas? Where is the regulation on misleading food advertising that glamorises what is slowly poisoning our youth? Responsibility does not lie with the government alone. Religious leaders, elders, teachers, and parents all have a role. Friday sermons that thunder against social evils must also speak about the sin of neglecting ones health. Schools that obsess over marks must also insist on sports and daily physical activity. Families that proudly serve heavy, oily feasts must learn that love is also a bowl of fruit and a brisk evening walk. If Kashmir continues to treat lifestyle diseases as normal, the Valley will quietly lose its most precious asset: its people in their most productive years. AI may dominate the headlines, but it is lifestyle that will decide whether the next generation lives long enough to change those headlines.
A Defining Leap for J&K Sports
National Centre of Excellence can bridge the gap between local talent and national podiumsif executed well The Government of Indias approval for Jammu and Kashmirs first National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) in Sports, to be set up in Kashmir, is more than just another infrastructure project. It is a defining moment in J&Ks long and often unfulfilled quest to translate raw sporting talent into consistent, top-tier performance. For a region where young boys and girls have repeatedly shown promise on fields, tracks and courts despite limited facilities, the nod for a national-standard, high-altitude sports hub marks a historic opportunity and an equally serious responsibility. Conceived as a premier centre for high altitude sports, elite athlete development and advanced sports science, the NCOE has the potential to fundamentally redraw J&Ks sporting map. The vision is ambitious: a fully integrated campus with athletics tracks, indoor courts, football and hockey turfs, kabaddi and kho-kho arenas, shooting range, swimming pool, taekwondo hall, skilling centres, a strength and conditioning and rehabilitation complex, hostels, sports science and sports medicine facilitiesall under one institutional framework. If implemented in both letter and spirit, this ecosystem can finally bridge the long-standing gap between local talent and national opportunity. The strategic choice of Kashmir, with its natural advantage for high altitude training, is sound. Across the world, such environments are recognised for enhancing endurance, stamina and overall competitive performance. For J&Ks athletes, who have often had to travel outside the UT for serious preparation, access to scientific training, recovery systems, and specialised coaching at home can be a game-changer. It also opens avenues for the Valley to host national camps, coaching programmes and high-level competitions, placing Kashmir firmly on Indias sports map. Equally significant is the projects potential beyond medals and scoreboards. The NCOE, if run transparently and inclusively, can become a powerful engine of youth empowerment and social development. The plan to skill thousands of young people as coaches, trainers, technical officials, physiotherapists, sports science professionals and support staff can diversify career pathways in a region where unemployment remains a pressing concern. Done right, the Centre can nurture a culture of discipline, aspiration and excellence that radiates far beyond its boundary walls. However, the distance between promise and delivery in J&K has too often been marred by delays, cost overruns and ad-hocism. The detailed preparatory work cited, the feasibility assessment, availability of government land, and a clearly identified administrative chain from the Chief Secretary to the Divisional Commissioner and the Youth Services and Sports Department, is reassuring. But the real test will lie in time-bound execution, transparent recruitment of coaches and experts, merit-based selection of athletes, and insulation of the project from bureaucratic inertia and political interference. The sanction of this NCOE is a milestone in J&Ks sporting journey, but it must not remain a milestone on paper. The administration now has a rare chance to convert an inspiring blueprint into a living institution that consistently produces national and international champions. For the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, who have long waited at the margins of the sporting story, this Centre must become not just a symbol of possibility, but a cradle of performance.
Restoring Trust in NEET Without Militarising Examinations
The use of military resources in civilian functions may appear harmless in isolated situations. However, it carries certain long-term risks The recent deployment of nearly 200 Indian Air Force sorties to transport NEET-UG retest question papers has been projected as a strong response to allegations of question paper leaks and examination irregularities. While the intention of reassuring students and parents is understandable, the development raises a larger and more important question: Should the credibility of a civilian examination system depend upon military intervention? The issue before the nation is not merely the transportation of question papers. It concerns the integrity, competence and public credibility of India's examination system. NEET: An Examination of National Importance NEET-UG is one of the largest entrance examinations in the world. More than 22 lakh students compete annually for approximately 1.18 lakh MBBS seats and other medical courses. For most candidates, the examination represents years of preparation, financial sacrifice and family aspirations. Any allegation of question paper leakage, therefore, strikes at the very foundation of meritocracy and equal opportunity. The National Testing Agency (NTA), established in 2017 by the Government of India, was created specifically to conduct high-quality, transparent and efficient examinations. Consequently, the long-term solution lies not in extraordinary logistical arrangements but in strengthening the institutional capacity of the examination authority itself. Military Resources Must Remain Reserved for National Priorities The Indian Air Force exists primarily for the defence of the nation. Its constitutional and statutory role is linked to national security, strategic preparedness, disaster response and humanitarian assistance. Military aircraft are maintained at enormous public expense. Every sortie involves fuel, maintenance, technical manpower and operational planning. Although the exact expenditure incurred for transporting NEET question papers has not been publicly disclosed, defence analysts consistently point out that military aviation assets are among the most expensive government resources to operate. The concern, therefore, is not whether the armed forces are capable of performing such tasksthey undoubtedly arebut whether civilian administrative deficiencies should routinely require military support. A mature democracy must ensure that civilian institutions are capable of discharging their responsibilities independently. The Risk of Militarising Civil Administration The use of military resources in civilian functions may appear harmless in isolated situations. However, it carries certain long-term risks. 1. Weakening Institutional Accountability If every major administrative failure is solved through extraordinary intervention, the responsible civilian institutions may escape necessary scrutiny and reform. The real questions remain: How did the leak occur? Who was responsible? What procedural weaknesses existed? What corrective actions were implemented? Military transportation cannot answer these questions. 2. Creating a False Sense of Security Question paper leaks generally occur at one of several stages: Printing Packaging Storage Digital transmission Human handling Distribution chain Transporting papers by aircraft addresses only one component of the process. If vulnerabilities remain elsewhere, the risk continues despite extraordinary transportation arrangements. 3. Normalisation of Emergency Measures Exceptional measures are justified during wars, natural disasters or national emergencies. However, if military deployment becomes a recurring feature of civilian administration, it risks blurring the distinction between civilian governance and military functions. Strong democracies are built upon competent civilian institutions, not routine dependence on military mechanisms. Existing Legal and Administrative Framework India already possesses extensive legal provisions for maintaining examination integrity. Several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, relating to criminal breach of trust, cheating, forgery, conspiracy and corruption can be invoked against examination fraud. In addition, Parliament enacted the: The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 This legislation specifically targets: Question paper leaks. Organised cheating. Examination fraud syndicates. Unauthorised access to examination materials. The Act provides severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. The existence of this legislation demonstrates that the solution envisioned by Parliament is stronger accountability and punishment of offendersnot routine militarisation of examination logistics. Learning from UPSC and Other Trusted Institutions India's Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has conducted examinations for decades with remarkable credibility. Millions of candidates have appeared for UPSC examinations over the years without requiring military aircraft for question paper transportation. The credibility of UPSC rests on: Strict secrecy protocols. Multiple security layers. Chain-of-custody documentation. Institutional accountability. Continuous monitoring. The lesson is clear: public trust is built through robust systems, not extraordinary symbolism. Strengthening the National Testing Agency The present controversy should become an opportunity for reform. Several measures deserve consideration: End-to-End Digital Tracking Every packet of question papers should be electronically tracked from the printing press to the examination centre through GPS-enabled monitoring. Tamper-Evident Security Seals Modern forensic seals can immediately reveal any unauthorised access. Background Verification Personnel involved in printing, storage and transportation should undergo rigorous verification and periodic audits. Independent Security Audit Annual third-party audits should be made mandatory for all major examinations. Decentralised Secure Printing Encrypted question papers may be transmitted electronically and printed only shortly before the examination under controlled conditions. Stronger Accountability Officials responsible for lapses should face prompt disciplinary and criminal action. Transparent Communication Students and parents should receive timely and accurate information whenever irregularities occur. Transparency often prevents panic and speculation. Trust Is Built by Competence, Not Symbolism The deployment of Air Force aircraft undoubtedly conveyed a message of seriousness. It may even have reassured many anxious students and parents. However, confidence built through symbolism is temporary. Confidence built through competence is permanent. Students will truly regain faith in the examination system only when they are convinced that: Question papers cannot be leaked. Wrongdoers will be punished swiftly. Honest candidates will not suffer. Examinations are conducted fairly and transparently. These objectives require institutional reform, not military participation. Conclusion The Indian Air Force deserves appreciation for efficiently carrying out any task entrusted to it by the Government of India. Nevertheless, the larger lesson from the NEET controversy is that civilian institutions must become strong enough to perform their duties without extraordinary intervention. The National Testing Agency should emerge from this episode not with greater dependence on emergency measures, but with stronger systems, better technology, enhanced accountability and renewed public trust. The credibility of an examination is not measured by the number of military aircraft deployed to protect it. It is measured by the confidence of every student who walks into the examination hall believing that merit alone will determine the outcome. India needs stronger examination systemsnot militarised examinations. (The Author is B.E. (Mech), B.O.E., ASME, Deputy Director of Boilers (Retd.), Mysuru)
Cancer Burden in Jammu & Kashmir
Do not ignore warning signs. Early detection can mean the difference between life and death HEALTH WATCH Cancer has become one of the most important health concerns in Jammu and Kashmir today. Over the last few years, doctors across the valley as well as the Jammu region have been noticing a steady increase in cancer cases. What is worrying is not just the rising number of patients, but also the fact that many of them reach hospitals at a very late stage, when the disease has already progressed significantly. Earlier, people in our region were more concerned about infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, diarrheal illnesses, and seasonal infections. While these problems still exist, the disease pattern is gradually changing. Lifestyle-related illnesses are increasing, and cancer is now becoming a major contributor to morbidity and mortality. This reflects a larger epidemiological transition taking place in society. Cancer is not a single disease but a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. These abnormal cells can invade nearby tissues and spread to other organs. The danger of cancer lies in its ability to remain silent during the early stages. One striking feature in Kashmir is the relatively high burden of gastrointestinal cancers, especially stomach (gastric) cancer and esophageal cancer. This pattern has attracted attention from researchers across India. Many experts believe that our dietary habits may be playing a significant role. High salt intake is known to damage the protective lining of the stomach, making it more vulnerable to chronic inflammation and cellular injury. Over time, repeated damage may contribute to cancer development. Another important factor is infection with Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that infects the stomach lining. Many individuals may carry this infection without obvious symptoms for years. However, chronic infection can lead to gastritis, ulcers, and precancerous changes. Many people in Kashmir suffer from chronic acidity, bloating, upper abdominal discomfort, or recurrent indigestion and often rely on over-the-counter antacids for temporary relief. Persistent symptoms should be evaluated properly. Lung cancer is another serious concern. Tobacco remains one of the biggest preventable causes of cancer worldwide, and our region is no exception. Among women, breast cancer has become increasingly common and is now one of the leading cancers seen in females. Delayed diagnosis remains a major issue. Cervical cancer is another disease that deserves attention because it is largely preventable through screening and HPV vaccination. Another aspect that deserves attention is genetics and family history. Some cancers may have a hereditary component, increasing lifetime risk. One of the biggest problems in cancer management in Jammu and Kashmir is late presentation. Many patients seek medical care only when symptoms become severe. We must also acknowledge the economic burden of cancer on families. Treatment is prolonged and expensive, often causing severe financial stress. This burden becomes even heavier for patients from remote areas such as Kupwara, Kishtwar, Doda, Gurez, Poonch, and Rajouri, where access to specialized cancer care remains limited. Cancer treatment has improved significantly over recent years with better access to CT scans, MRI, endoscopy, biopsy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical oncology. The importance of screening camps and community awareness programs cannot be overstated. Rural outreach programs can help identify suspicious symptoms much earlier. There is also a psychological dimension to cancer that is often overlooked. Fear of the diagnosis can lead to denial or delayed consultation. As healthcare professionals, we must help patients understand that cancer treatment has advanced tremendously. Many cancers today are treatable, and several are curable if diagnosed early. Preventive strategies include avoiding tobacco, reducing excessive salt intake, limiting processed foods, maintaining healthy weight, exercising regularly, and seeking early medical evaluation. Cancer is no longer a rare disease in Kashmir. Almost every family today knows someone affected by it. The message is simple: do not ignore warning signs. Early detection can mean the difference between life and death. (The Author is a registered medical practitioner and health columnist. He can be reached at: mir.muzaffar@yahoo.com)
Dostoevsky and the Restless Conscience of Our Times
Why a 19th-century Russian still speaks to the anxieties of the modern world There are writers we admire, and then there are writers who unsettle us. Fyodor Dostoevsky belongs firmly to the second category. He is not a comforting companion. He does not offer easy optimism or neat conclusions. Instead, he drags us into dark rooms of the human soul and locks the door from inside. Yet, generation after generation, readers keep returning to him. In classrooms and coffee houses, on social media feeds and in private conversations, Dostoevskys name still appearsperhaps more than many of his more polished contemporaries. The writer of inner earthquakes Dostoevsky did not write about ordinary events. He wrote about inner earthquakes. His novels are full of murderers, fanatics, lost believers, desperate lovers, and broken families. But beneath all the drama is a single obsession: the human conscience. In Crime and Punishment, we watch Raskolnikov commit a brutal murder, convinced he is justified, even destined, to rise above ordinary morality. On paper, it is a crime story. In reality, it is a story of a mind collapsing under the weight of its own rationalisations. The police can chase him, but the real pursuer is his own conscience. Dostoevsky understood something that modern life often wants us to forget: no matter how sophisticated our systems, how powerful our ideologies, or how convenient our justifications, the human heart remains uneasy when it crosses its own moral lines. You can hide from the law. You cannot hide from yourself. For societies living through conflict, this is not a literary detail. It is a central fact. Violence, whether physical or psychological, does not end when the event ends. It lingers in memories, in families, in communitiesand inside the people who committed it, supported it, or silently accepted it. Dostoevsky reminds us that the battlefield is also within. Freedom without responsibility: a dangerous illusion One of the most disturbing aspects of Dostoevskys work is his vision of freedom gone wrong. He saw, ahead of his time, how an idea of freedom detached from responsibility could become destructive. When people begin to believe that everything is permitted in the name of some higher causebe it ideology, nationalism, or even personal ambitionthen any act can be justified. In The Brothers Karamazov, one character imagines a world where God does not exist, and therefore there is no ultimate accountability, no final justice. From that thought emerges a frightening possibility: if there is no one to answer to, why not do anything you like? Dostoevsky does not give a philosophical lecture here; he shows what happens when such thinking takes hold in families and societies. The result is not liberation but chaossuspicion, betrayal, and spiritual exhaustion. Our own age is full of noisy declarations of freedom: freedom to say anything, to insult, to cancel, to humiliate; freedom to consume without limit; freedom to twist truth into whatever shape suits us. Technology has multiplied our reach and our speed, but not necessarily our sense of responsibility. We can ruin reputations in seconds, destroy trust in institutions in a few clicks, and spread hatred or misinformation without ever meeting those we harm. Dostoevsky would not be surprised. He knew that when freedom is separated from moral responsibility, it eventually turns back against the very people who celebrate it. Unchecked powerwhether in the hands of the state, the mob, or the individual egoalways produces victims, and often, finally, devours itself. Faith in a skeptical age Dostoevskys own life was one long struggle with faith and doubt. He was nearly executed for his early political activities, spared at the last minute, and sent to Siberian exile. There he met criminals, peasants, believers, and sceptics, and it was in that harsh environment that his spiritual vision deepened. Unlike preachy writers, Dostoevsky did not offer simple religious slogans. His characters argue fiercely about God, atheism, suffering, and evil. Some lose their faith. Some find it. Some simply wander in between. Yet through all this, one idea emerges: human beings cannot live on material facts alone. In an age that prides itself on being practical and rational, this is an uncomfortable message. We like to believe that better infrastructure, more data, and smarter policies will solve everything. These are necessary, but not sufficient. People do not just crave comfort; they crave meaning. They want to know why their suffering matters, what justice truly is, whether forgiveness is possible, and how to live with dignity in a broken world. In societies marked by conflict, these questions become even more urgent. When injustice accumulates, when trauma is passed down like an heirloom, when young people grow up more familiar with loss than with security, the temptation is either to sink into despair or explode in rage. Dostoevskys novels inhabit the relationship between despair and rage precisely. He does not dismiss either. He lets them speak. But he also asks: can there be a path beyond them? Compassion as a radical act For a writer of such darkness, Dostoevsky is also, paradoxically, a writer of compassion. His greatest characters are not the strong and successful, but the weak, the humiliated, the ashamed. He pays attention to people society mocks or ignores: poor students, fallen women, drunken fathers, desperate children. This does not mean he romanticises suffering. On the contrary, he exposes how easily society uses the suffering of the weak as a kind of entertainment or moral lesson, without ever questioning the structures that produce that suffering. But he also insists that real moral life begins when we stop treating others as background scenery and start seeing them as soulswith their own fears, hopes, and hidden goodness. In one sense, Dostoevsky challenges the modern culture of judgment. Social media has made it easy to condemn from a distance, to reduce complex human beings to a single act, a single post, or a single label. In his novels, no one is so simple. The sinner is rarely only a villain. The saint is never perfectly pure. Everyone is a mixture of good and evil, capable of falling and of rising. The mirror we try to avoid Reading Dostoevsky can be uncomfortable because his real subject is not Russia in the 1800s. His real subject is us. When we follow Raskolnikovs tortured reasoning, we may recognise our own justificationssmaller, perhaps, but similar in structure. When we see families in The Brothers Karamazov tear themselves apart over money, pride, and wounded egos, we may think of our own quarrels, our own silent resentments. Dostoevskys gift is to hold up a mirror we often try to avoid. He forces us to confront our contradictions: wanting justice but refusing to examine our own compromises; demanding honesty while living inside convenient lies; yearning for peace while feeding on news, gossip, and rhetoric that keep us permanently agitated. In a region where narratives are constantly competingeach side sure of its own innocence and the others guiltthis mirror is especially necessary. Without it, we risk becoming trapped in a story where we are always victims or always heroes, never participants in a shared, messy human drama. Lessons for a fragile present What, then, can Dostoevsky offer to a young reader today, perhaps on a phone screen, scrolling between notifications and news alerts? First, he offers seriousness. Not heaviness, but depth. In a world of endless distraction, his novels demand attentionnot just to the story, but to ones own reactions. Why do we sympathise with a criminal? Why do we feel uneasy when a character uses high ideals to justify cruelty? Why are we moved when a small act of kindness shines through the gloom? These questions push us to examine our own values, not just consume a plot. Second, he offers a warning about the seduction of ideologies. Dostoevsky lived in a time of revolutionary ideas, where grand visions promised to solve all social problems through force, upheaval, or total reorganization of society. He had seen where such dreams could lead: to the sacrifice of actual human beings in the name of imagined futures. The 20th century, with its wars and genocides, sadly proved him right. Our own century is not immune. In any place of conflict, the temptation to embrace absolute narratives is strong. Narratives that divide the world cleanly into good and evil, us and them, innocent and guilty. Such stories provide emotional comfort, even moral energy. But Dostoevsky gently, and sometimes brutally, reminds us that reality is more tangled. No ideology, however noble-sounding, has the right to erase the uniqueness of individual lives. Third, he offers a stubborn hopenot the cheap, sentimental kind, but a hard-earned hope that passes through darkness. His characters suffer, fail, and sometimes commit unforgivable acts. Yet again and again he insists that a single moment of compassion, a single act of humility, a single decision to admit the truth, can begin to change a life. This is not a political programme. It will not appear in manifestos or policy papers. But it matters. Because how we treat the person in front of usour neighbour, our colleague, our opponent, even our anonymous online interlocutorshapes the atmosphere in which larger events unfold. Why Dostoevsky still matters It would be easy to dismiss Dostoevsky as a writer of a distant empire, with old-fashioned settings and long, demanding books. But beneath the surface, his questions are our questions. We, too, live in an age of fear and uncertainty, in a world where technology connects and isolates us at the same time, where ideologies promise salvation and deliver division, and where the line between truth and falsehood is constantly blurred. We, too, are tempted to believe that power is more important than conscience, that ends justify means, that inner unease can be silenced by noise and distraction. Dostoevsky does not let us off so easily. He insists that every human being is answerable to others, and finally, to their own soul. He reminds us that the greatest battles are often fought not on the streets but in the privacy of the human heart. And he suggests that any future worth having must be built not only on laws and institutions, but on the difficult, daily work of moral honesty and compassion. For readers, Dostoevsky offers no ready-made answers. But he offers something perhaps more valuable: a language to think deeply about guilt and forgiveness, about freedom and responsibility, about suffering and dignity. In an era of quick takes and short attention spans, that in itself is a quiet act of resistance. The Russian novelist who wrote in the shadow of tsars and prison walls could not have imagined our world of Wi-Fi and smartphones, of online outrage and globalised anxieties. Yet his words travel across time and geography because the human heart has not changed as much as we like to believe. We may change our rulers, our borders, our technologies. But as long as we struggle with conscience, as long as we are torn between selfishness and empathy, as long as we can still be moved by the fate of another human being, Dostoevsky will remain disturbingly, urgently, relevant. And perhaps that is why, in a small corner of the Himalayas, a reader opening his pages today may still feel a shock of recognitionas if a stranger from a distant century has quietly understood something we ourselves hesitate to admit. (The Author is an Assistant Professor working in Dubai and writes exclusively on literature)
Mirwaiz Hopes PM Modi Revives Spirit Of Regional Engagement
Bats for dialogue, urges India-Pakistan engagement Karbala an Eternal Lesson in Truth, Justice, Sacrifice Srinagar, June 26: : Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Molvi Mohammad Umar Farooq on Friday said dialogue, diplomacy and engagement remain the only sustainable path to resolving conflicts, urging India and Pakistan to revive efforts towards peace while drawing parallels from recent global developments. Addressing the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid Srinagar on Youm-e-Ashoora, Mirwaiz said the recent United States-Israel confrontation with Iran once again demonstrated that military force, however overwhelming, has its limits. Wars can alter circumstances and inflict immense suffering, but durable peace and lasting solutions ultimately require dialogue, negotiation and statesmanship, he said. He noted that even after months of confrontation, enormous expenditure of resources and immense human suffering, adversaries eventually returned to the negotiating table. It is not a sign of weakness on either side; it reflects the reality that disputes cannot be resolved through force alone, he said, appreciating efforts by regional and international actors, including Pakistan and Qatar, to facilitate an environment conducive to dialogue. Mirwaiz said the same lesson holds particular relevance for South Asia, especially India and Pakistan. Our region is home to nearly one-fourth of humanity. It possesses immense civilizational wealth, extraordinary human resources and enormous economic potential. Yet for decades, political tensions, mistrust and unresolved issues have prevented the peoples of this region from fully realizing these possibilities. Societies suffer not only economically, but also emotionally and psychologically, he said. Referring to his own commitment to dialogue, Mirwaiz said that following the assassination of his father, Shaheed Mirwaiz Molvi Farooq, in 1990, he inherited not only the office of the Mirwaiz but also the responsibility to uphold the principles for which his father laid down his life. He said Shaheed Mirwaiz consistently advocated justice and dialogue over violence and supported engagement between India and Pakistan, believing that the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the wider region would be best served through peace, mutual respect and meaningful dialogue. Mirwaiz said that whether through the Awami Action Committee or later through the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, he has consistently upheld this principle for more than 36 years despite facing considerable odds and pushback. Sustainable peace cannot emerge from wars, force or violence. Lasting solutions require engagement, understanding and the courage to listen even to those with whom one disagrees, he said. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mirwaiz said he is today among the longest-serving leaders in independent India. He recalled that during the early years of his tenure, Modi spoke of regional cooperation and demonstrated an interest in improving relations with neighbouring countries. Those gestures generated hope across South Asia and created expectations of greater regional engagement and stability, he said. Mirwaiz said he had the opportunity, along with his colleagues, to engage with leaders across political dispensations, including former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani and former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. While differences remained, those engagements reflected an important principle: dialogue itself has value. It reduces mistrust, humanises opposing perspectives and creates possibilities that otherwise remain closed, he said. Expressing hope for renewed engagement, Mirwaiz said the spirit that informed Prime Minister Modi in the early years of his tenure, as well as the efforts made under leaders such as Vajpayee and Dr Manmohan Singh, should once again find expression. Peace may be difficult. Dialogue may be slow. Diplomacy may demand patience. Yet these remain the most reliable instruments for resolving issues and securing a better future, Mirwaiz said. Referring to the significance of Youm-e-Ashoora, Mirwaiz said the tragedy of Karbala is not merely a chapter of history but an eternal lesson in truth, patience, justice and sacrifice. He said Imam Hussain (RA) did not seek war or confrontation but stood for the principle that differences should be addressed through truth, adherence to the principles of Islam and sincere dialogue. When those before him chose oppression and violence instead, history recorded their failure forever, while Imam Hussain (RA) and his devoted companions became everlasting symbols of courage, sacrifice and steadfastness upon truth. Karbala reminds us that power may appear strong for a time, but in the end it is truth, justice and moral courage that prevail, he said, adding that when force replaces reason and confrontation replaces communication, societies suffer, whereas truth, patience and dialogue leave behind a legacy that history honours.
Police test sniper readiness for Amarnath Yatra
Anantnag, June 26: As part of security preparations for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026, Jammu and Kashmir Police on Friday conducted a specialised sniper response mock drill at Batangoo along the Yatra route to assess the operational readiness of security forces. The exercise simulated a realistic threat scenario requiring the rapid deployment of specially trained sniper teams, strategic positioning, target identification and coordinated neutralisation of a simulated threat while ensuring the safety of pilgrims and security personnel. Specialised sniper teams of Anantnag Police, along with other security personnel deployed for Yatra duties, participated in the drill. The exercise also tested communication systems, coordination among ground units, command and control mechanisms, and adherence to standard operating procedures during critical situations. Police said the mock drill was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the overall security framework for the annual pilgrimage. Such specialised exercises are being conducted regularly to enhance preparedness and ensure a safe, secure and peaceful environment for devotees undertaking the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026.
NDMA conducts mock exercise for Amarnath Yatra
Emergency response, evacuation & security protocols put to test Anantnag, June 26: Ahead of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with District Administration, Anantnag on Friday conducted a comprehensive mock exercise at Nunwan Base Camp, Pahalgam. The aim of the exercise was to assess the preparedness of all departments for the ensuing Yatra. The exercise was conducted under the chairmanship of Major General Sudhir Bahl (Rtd.), Lead Consultant (Medical Emergencies and Incident Response System), NDMA. The exercise was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (CEO, DDMA), Vikas Ahlawat, Camp Director Nunwan, Atul Kumar, SDM Pahalgam, officers from civil administration, UTDMA, CRPF, Fire and Emergency Services, Health, Army, JK Police telecommunications, ITBP, BSF and officials from various other departments. The mock drill simulated a range of emergency scenarios, including medical emergencies, fire incidents, disaster response, evacuation, and security contingencies, to evaluate the coordination, communication, and response capabilities of participating agencies. Officials and personnel from the civil administration, police, security forces, Health Department, NDRF and SDRF, Fire and Emergency Services, and other stakeholder departments actively demonstrated their preparations to respond to any disaster-like situation. Speaking on the occasion, Major General Sudhir Bahl (Rtd.) emphasized the importance of coordinated planning, prompt response, and effective communication among all agencies to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims during SANJY-2026. He stressed that regular mock exercises are essential to strengthen emergency preparedness and improve inter-agency coordination. Simultaneously, mock exercises were held at Sheshnag and Panchtarni Yatra Stations, simulating flashfloods and fire incidents and the same were livestreamed. Member NDMA, Krishan Vats joined online for debriefing while Camp Directors Sheshnag and Panchtarni also participated. The mock exercise helped identify strengths as well as areas requiring further improvement, reinforcing the preparedness of all departments to ensure the safe, secure, and smooth conduct of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026.
Baramulla Police attach motorcycle, car in NDPS case
Srinagar, June 26: Continuing its crackdown on drug trafficking and narcotics-related crimes, Baramulla Police on Friday attached a motorcycle and a car allegedly used in illicit narcotics activities under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. According to a police statement, the attached vehicles include a motorcycle bearing registration number JK05H-8100 and a Hyundai Xcent car bearing registration number HR55AD-2930, belonging to Ziyakat Ramzan Dar, son of Mohd Ramzan Dar, a resident of Chechilora, Kunzer. The action was taken by Police Station Kunzer in connection with FIR No. 35/2026 registered under Sections 8, 20 and 29 of the NDPS Act, after investigations established that the vehicles were linked to illegal narcotics activities. Police said the attachment proceedings were carried out in accordance with the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, adding that the move is part of its continued efforts to dismantle the infrastructure supporting drug trafficking and deprive offenders of assets allegedly used in or derived from narcotics-related crimes. Reiterating its commitment to combating the drug menace, Baramulla Police appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in achieving the vision of a Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir. As part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Jammu and Kashmir Police intensified its campaign against narcotic cultivation by destroying wild cannabis (bhang) plants at multiple locations across Baramulla district. A major destruction drive was carried out at the Uroosa graveyard with active participation and support from members of the local community. In a parallel operation, police teams also removed wild cannabis plants growing in open areas at Janbazpora in Baramulla. The drives are part of Baramulla Police's sustained efforts to curb drug abuse at its source by eliminating the illegal cultivation of narcotic plants and fostering a drug-free society. The operations were conducted peacefully and witnessed wholehearted cooperation from local residents. J&K Police also organised an awareness programme in collaboration with the VTech Group of VTech School, Wagoora, to educate the public about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of building a drug-free society. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers and members of the community, who actively joined the campaign against substance abuse. During the programme, participants were sensitized about the adverse social, economic and health consequences of drug addiction and the need for collective action to eradicate the menace from society. As part of the initiative, an awareness rally was conducted from VTech School, Wagoora to Wagoora Main Chowk.
Over 1.4 lakh seek de-addiction services in Kashmir
Doctors credit Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan for improving awareness, treatment and reducing stigma. Srinagar, Jun 26: Jammu and Kashmir's fight against substance abuse has received a significant boost under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan, with health experts saying the multi-pronged campaign has strengthened prevention, treatment, awareness efforts across the valley. According to official figures, the Drug De-Addiction Centre at SMHS Hospital, GMC Srinagar, recorded a total of 112,628 OPD visits between April 2025 and March 2026, including 1,664 new patients and 110,964 follow-up visits. The figures said that during the same period, the facility also registered 261 inpatient (IPD) admissions, reflecting the growing demand for de-addiction and rehabilitation services. In the subsequent shorter period from April 2026 to June 26, 2026, the center recorded 523 new OPD cases and 31,661 follow-ups, bringing the OPD total for those few months to 32,184, alongside 74 IPD admissions. Prof. Yasir Hassan Rather, Department of Psychiatry, IMHANS-K, GMC Srinagar said the Nasha Mukht Abhiyaan launched under the guidance of the Lieutenant Governor has strengthened fight against substance abuse by bringing together enforcement, healthcare, education, and community participation. He said alongside action against drug trafficking, there has been a greater emphasis on prevention, awareness, early identification, and treatment. At IMHANS-K, GMC, Srinagar, we have actively supported this mission by providing comprehensive de-addiction services to hundreds of patients daily, he said. The facility holds regular awareness and capacity building programmes for teachers, students, healthcare workers, Self Help Groups, religious leaders, and community stakeholders in association with district administration of Srinagar and other relevant departments like JKRLM, Education department etc. While the challenge remains substantial, doctors say the campaign has undoubtedly increased public awareness, reduced stigma, and encouraged more individuals and families to seek timely treatment On the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed on June 26, former Head of the Department of Psychiatry, GMC Srinagar, Prof. Maqbool Dar, highlighted the growing global and regional burden of substance abuse. Citing the 2023 United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report, he said there are an estimated 316 million drug users worldwide, including 244 million cannabis users. Referring to studies conducted in Kashmir, Prof. Dar said heroin has emerged as the most commonly abused drug, particularly among young people. He attributed the rising trend of substance abuse to multiple factors, including unemployment, peer pressure, family conflicts, rapid urbanisation, broken families, and inadequate awareness about the harmful consequences of drug addiction. He urged parents to acknowledge the growing involvement of youth in substance abuse instead of remaining in denial. Stressing the importance of parental vigilance, he advised families to closely monitor their children's behaviour, maintain open communication, and seek professional help at the earliest signs of addiction. Prof. Dar emphasized that drug addiction is a treatable medical condition, and said that timely counselling and medical intervention can help individuals recover and reintegrate into society.
AI, space, quantum tech to shape future: Jitendra Singh
Says India progressing alongside leading nations in critical technologies New Delhi,June 26: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh on Friday said Artificial Intelligence (AI), space, nuclear and quantum technologies will define the future of economic growth, national security and global competitiveness, asserting that India is rapidly emerging as a major force in frontier technologies. Speaking during a fireside conversation at a media conclave organised by a leading news channel, the minister said countries that fail to keep pace with advances in these critical technologies risk falling behind in both development and strategic capabilities. Space, Nuclear and Quantum Technologies will play a decisive role in shaping the future world order, he said, adding that India is progressing alongside leading nations in several key technology domains. Highlighting the progress under the National Quantum Mission (NQM), launched in 2023, Dr. Singh said the mission has already achieved more than half of its targeted outcomes within three years. He said significant advances have been made in quantum-secure communication, which has important applications in defence, cybersecurity, strategic communications and protection of sensitive information. The minister said the rapid progress under the mission reflects India's growing scientific capabilities and its commitment to becoming a global leader in emerging technologies, with advancements being made across quantum communication, quantum computing and related research. On Artificial Intelligence, Dr. Singh said AI is becoming an indispensable tool across sectors including governance, healthcare, education, industry, research and public service delivery. He said the government is strengthening the supporting ecosystem through investments in digital infrastructure, computing capacity, data resources and dependable energy systems. Emphasising the importance of energy security, the minister said the growing demand for advanced computing, data centres and digital services would require robust and reliable power sources, making nuclear energy an important pillar of India's technology-driven growth and clean energy transition. Dr. Singh credited a series of policy reforms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi for expanding opportunities in innovation, entrepreneurship and scientific research. He said the opening up of the space sector has created a vibrant startup ecosystem, while recent reforms in the nuclear sector are expected to accelerate investments, technology collaborations and capacity creation. Speaking on education, the minister described the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as a transformational reform that has introduced greater flexibility and multidisciplinary learning, enabling students to pursue careers aligned with their interests while strengthening the country's research ecosystem. He also said India is witnessing a shift from a government-driven innovation model to a collaborative ecosystem involving academia, industry, startups and private enterprises, creating new opportunities for scientific discovery and commercialisation of research. Calling upon young people to participate actively in India's technological transformation, Dr. Singh urged students to harness the unprecedented access to knowledge and learning resources available today and contribute towards building an innovation-driven India. He said the reforms in education, research, space, nuclear energy and emerging technologies would strengthen India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047 and position it among the world's leading innovation-driven economies.
100 Smart City buses to join Srinagar fleet
Srinagar, June 26: Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) on Friday said that the 100 new buses sanctioned for Srinagar under the Central governments PM eBus Sewa scheme are expected to reach Kashmir in October - November this year. An official of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) told Rising Kashmir that the procurement process is still underway and is being handled by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). We are expecting the first lot of buses to arrive in October-November this year. The tendering process and other formalities are being carried out by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the official said. Earlier, the SSCL officials had stated in December last year that the additional buses had been approved under the PM eBus Sewa scheme and were likely to arrive in Srinagar by June 2026. At present, SSCL operates a fleet of 98 buses catering to commuters across Srinagar city and its adjoining areas. The Government of India launched the PM eBus Sewa scheme on August 16, 2023, to strengthen urban public transport by deploying 10,000 electric buses across the country under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The delay has raised concerns among commuters, who have repeatedly highlighted the shortage of Smart City buses on several routes. Many have complained that inadequate bus frequency, particularly during peak hours, has been causing long waiting times and overcrowding. With the arrival of the additional buses now pushed back by several months, commuters have questioned the delay in the procurement process and urged authorities to expedite the deployment to improve public transport services in the city.
CM Omar Abdullah Meets Bihar Assembly Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Education Minister
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met the Bihar Assembly Speaker and Himachal Pradesh Education Minister, discussing inter-governmental cooperation, legislative exchange and collaboration in the education sector
CM Omar Abdullah meets Bihar Assembly Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Education Minister in Srinagar
SRINAGAR, JUNE 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah yesterday evening held separate meetings with distinguished visitors from Bihar and Himachal Pradesh at his residence in Srinagar, discussing issues of mutual interest and avenues for greater inter-governmental cooperation. Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, Dr. Prem Kumar, called on the Chief Minister. During the meeting, the two [] The post CM Omar Abdullah meets Bihar Assembly Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Education Minister in Srinagar appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
DGP J&K chairs security review meeting ahead of Amarnath Yatra
DGP Nalin Prabhat reviews security and logistical preparedness, directs agencies to strengthen coordination, surveillance and traffic management for the smooth and incident-free conduct of the annual pilgrimage
Mirwaiz Calls for Dialogue and Statesmanship in South Asia
Srinagar, June 26, 2026: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Molvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, while speaking at the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid Srinagar on Youm-e-Ashoora, said that the tragedy of Karbala is not merely a chapter of history, but an eternal lesson in truth, patience, justice and sacrifice. Mirwaiz said Imam Hussain (RA) was not in search of war [] The post Mirwaiz Calls for Dialogue and Statesmanship in South Asia appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah joins Youm-e-Ashura mourners at Zadibal
SRINAGAR, JUNE 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday joined mourners at Zadibal on the solemn occasion of Youm-e-Ashura and distributed water and milk at a sabeel set up along the procession route as a mark of respect and solidarity with the mourners. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani and [] The post Chief Minister Omar Abdullah joins Youm-e-Ashura mourners at Zadibal appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah meets former J&K Governor N. N. Vohra
SRINAGAR, JUNE 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today met former Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri N. N. Vohra, in Srinagar. The meeting was marked by a warm and engaging interaction, during which the two exchanged views on a range of issues concerning Jammu & Kashmir. The discussions drew upon Shri Vohras vast administrative experience [] The post Chief Minister Omar Abdullah meets former J&K Governor N. N. Vohra appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Ladakh: Grid Connectivity to Reach Zanskar, Nubra by September
Three major transmission projects will connect Zanskar and Nubra to the power grid by September, expanding reliable electricity access across remote border areas of Ladakh
Pratham Sindhu Kumbh 30th Sindhu Darshan Yatra Concludes with a Strong Message of Nationality
Leh, Ladakh | 26 June : The six-day Pratham Sindhu Kumbh, marking the 30th Sindhu Darshan Yatra, concluded today in Leh, Ladakh with a powerful message of national unity, cultural pride, and devotion. On the final day, thousands of pilgrims visited the sacred Sindhu Ghat and participated in the holy dip under the leadership of [] The post Pratham Sindhu Kumbh 30th Sindhu Darshan Yatra Concludes with a Strong Message of Nationality appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Youm-e-Ashura Observed Peacefully Across Kashmir Amid Tight Security, Massive Devotion
Thousands joined Ashura processions across Kashmir as Youm-e-Ashura was observed peacefully under tight security, with leaders paying homage to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS)
IGP Kashmir Commends Organisers, Public for Peaceful Ashoora Processions Across Valley
Srinagar, June 26: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V.K. Birdi, on Friday commended organisers, volunteers and the general public for their cooperation in ensuring the peaceful and orderly observance of Ashoora processions across Kashmir. Speaking to reporters after the conclusion of the religious procession, Birdi said that the police, in coordination with the civil administration, had put in place comprehensive security and logistical arrangements well in advance to facilitate the smooth conduct of the event. He said meticulous planning and close coordination among various agencies helped maintain public convenience, traffic management and overall discipline throughout the processions. The IGP appreciated the role of organisers and volunteers, noting that their continuous coordination with the police and district administration was instrumental in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the religious event. Birdi also expressed gratitude to the public for adhering to the advisories and extending full cooperation to the authorities, stating that the collective efforts of all stakeholders contributed significantly to the successful and incident-free observance of Ashoora. The Ashoora processions were held across various parts of Kashmir under extensive security and administrative arrangements, with authorities monitoring the events to ensure public safety and smooth movement.
IRGC says transit through Hormuz only possible via routes approved by Tehran
Tehran [Iran], June 26 : Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy on Friday said that transit through the strategic Strait of Hormuz would only be permitted through routes approved by Tehran, despite the IRGC establishing a communication line with the US Central Command (CENTCOM) in the strait to prevent incidents that could escalate into military confrontation and to facilitate the implementation of provisions under the 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU). According to the Iranian state media, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), the IRGC Navy warned that vessels seeking to pass through the Strait of Hormuz must follow routes announced by Iran. The only law that governs this region is still the law of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Revolutionary Guards Navy, an IRIB reporter said, quoting the IRGC Navy's position. The report further claimed that three foreign oil tankers attempting to illegally transit the Strait of Hormuz and use the Southern Corridor were stopped and diverted towards the Persian Gulf. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi also addressed the issue in a post on X, saying that safe passage through the waterway could not be guaranteed without coordination with Tehran. Safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with ambiguous arrangements, parallel routes, or decision-making outside of Iran's considerations as the coastal state, cannot be guaranteed, Gharibabadi said. He added that any credible framework for navigation through the strait must be based on coordination with Iran and provisions outlined in paragraph five of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Otherwise, the outcome will be the suspension of the designated parallel route, he said. Earlier today, Iranian state media Press TV reported that Iran and the US have established a communication line in the Strait of Hormuz to prevent incidents that could escalate into military confrontation and to facilitate the implementation of provisions under the 14-point MoU between the two countries. In order to prevent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz that might lead to military confrontation and to implement the provisions of paragraph five of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, a communication line has been established between the two sides, Press TV reported. The development comes after the conclusion of the initial round of technical talks as part of the MoU aimed at ending the hostilities in West Asia between the US and Iran in Switzerland, with both sides agreeing to establish a High-Level Committee and a roadmap towards a final agreement within 60 days. According to the joint statement issued by Qatar and Pakistan following the Lake Lucerne Summit in Switzerland's Burgenstock, the parties had agreed to establish a direct communication line during the 60-day negotiation period. In addition, a communication line between the parties has been formed for the period mentioned in paragraph 5 of the MoU to avoid incidents and miscommunication with the aim of safe passage for commercial vessels throughthe Strait of Hormuz, the statement read. (ANI)
Air India may restore some flight schedules amid easing West Asia conflict: Sources
According to airline sources, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson communicated to employees that the easing of the conflict has created a more stable operating environment, which in turn has increased available airspace and led to a significant moderation in fuel prices.
NDMA Conducts Mock Drill at Nunwan Base Camp Ahead of Amarnath Yatra
Multi-agency disaster preparedness drill held at Nunwan, with simultaneous exercises at Sheshnag and Panchtarni, ahead of the Amarnath Yatra
6.5 magnitude earthquake recorded in Celebes Sea near Philippines
Manila , June 26: A strong 6.5 magnitude earthquake was recorded in the Celebes Sea, the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) said on Friday evening. In a post on X, the NCS said that the earthquake occurred at a depth of 55 kilometres. EQ of M: 6.5, On: 26/06/2026 17:04:42 IST, Lat: 5.340 N, Long: 125.256 E, Depth: 55 Km, Location: Celebes Sea, NCS said on X. This comes after a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit the Philippines earlier in June.This is a developing story. (ANI)
Omar Abdullah refutes Mehboobas backdoor appointments claim
Rejecting Mehbooba Mufti's claim of 25,000 backdoor appointments, Omar Abdullah says the government will place the full facts before the public soon
AIP members vote against Engineer Rashids resignation as Baramulla MP
A secret ballot among 773 AIP delegates overwhelmingly backed Engineer Rashid's continuation as Baramulla MP, with the party saying it will convey the outcome to him through his legal team
Tells PDP Their Brownie Point Rush Is Killing a Serious Issue; Asks Them to Contact Him on Understanding Outsourcing Srinagar, June 26: J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Lone on Friday drew a sharp distinction between outsourcing and backdoor appointments, calling the NC government's conversion of public sector jobs into privately outsourced positions a far graver crime against the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, while simultaneously cautioning the PDP against muddying the waters for the sake of political point-scoring. Lone said he had anticipated that the outsourcing controversy would eventually descend into a blame game between the two parties, and warned that mislabeling the issue does a disservice to the thousands of young people affected by it. These are not backdoor appointments. These are outsourced appointments of government jobs, and that distinction matters enormously, he said, adding that when he raised the question in the Assembly, the government itself confirmed that 25,000 jobs had been outsourced. The Peoples Conference president argued that outsourcing of government jobs represents a far graver threat than backdoor appointments, describing it as the systematic privatisation of public employment. He said the practice introduces a fundamentally corrupt model in which outsourcing companies and the ruling class collude at the expense of ordinary job-seekers, rendering what should be secure government positions into precarious, temporary engagements that can be terminated at will. Every new government will bring a new outsourcing agency, he warned, and those employed under this system will pay the price. Lone drew particular attention to the outsourcing of jobs under Mission Vatsalya formerly known as the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) a cause he said was deeply personal. He recalled that during his tenure as Social Welfare Minister, he had spearheaded the implementation of ICPS in Jammu and Kashmir, establishing for the first time a formal child protection regime in the region, complete with district-level child protection committees designed to shield children from sexual abuse, juvenile detention, and other threats. He said that following 2019, the Lieutenant Governor's administration had attempted to outsource appointments within ICPS and move to terminate existing contractual employees, a decision he had publicly opposed at the time. Employees had approached the courts and obtained a stay order, but the remaining recruitments were left pending. Lone expressed that he had hoped the return of an elected government would reverse this course, only to find that the current NC administration had proceeded to outsource the remaining ICPS posts. To my horror, this elected government has proven to be as malafide in its intentions toward these employees as the post-2019 regime was, he said, adding that government responses to his repeated Assembly questions on the matter were marked by arrogance. Turning to the NC's electoral promises, Lone reminded the party that it had pledged in its manifesto to create one lakh new government jobs. Instead of creating 100,000 government jobs, they have so far converted 25,000 government jobs into private jobs, he said, announcing that he would shortly release a detailed case study with dates establishing the NC government's culpability in what he termed the outsourcing crime. Addressing his colleagues in the PDP directly, Lone urged them not to allow the NC to escape accountability by conflating two distinct issues. Don't allow NC to walk away with murder by calling outsourcing backdoor appointments, he said, appealing to the party to engage with the substance of the issue rather than seek political brownie points. He offered to assist PDP leaders in understanding the nuances of the matter, while making clear that the real victims in this episode are the thousands of young people now employed at the mercy of private outsourcing firms with no security of tenure.
Carry the voice of every Indian: Rahul Gandhi marks two years as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha
New Delhi [India], June 26 : Marking the completion of two years as the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday reiterated his commitment to carrying the voice of every Indian to Parliament and vowed to continue his fight on key issues, including NEET and the protection of the Constitution. Taking to the social media platform X, the Congress leader reflected on his journey over the past 24 months, stating that every day has been dedicated to representing the common citizen in the corridors of power. Today marks two years since I became the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. Every single day of these two years has been dedicated to one task--to carry the voice of every Indian to the corridors of power, Gandhi wrote in his post. Highlighting the specific causes he has championed during his tenure, the LoP mentioned his involvement in the protests by medical aspirants and his stance on the integrity of the electoral process. Whether it's the fight for NEET aspirants, exposing electoral fraud, or defending the Constitution, I have stood with you on every front, I stand with you today, and I always will, he added. Gandhi, who took over the constitutional role in June 2024 following the general elections, emphasised that the support of the public has been his primary motivation. From the streets to Parliament, your trust is my greatest strength. The journey is long, but my resolve remains the same--I will keep fighting every battle for you, the post further read. Rahul Gandhi's appointment as the Leader of the Opposition in June 2024 marked a historic shift in Indian parliamentary politics, as the post had remained vacant for a decade during the 16th and 17th Lok Sabhas. Under parliamentary rules, a party must secure at least one-tenth of the total strength of the House (55 out of 543) to claim the LoP position; a threshold the Congress party crossed in the 2024 general elections by winning 99 seats. This role is Gandhi's first formal constitutional position since entering politics in 2004, and the third time that a member of the Gandhi family has been the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha. Before this, Sonia Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi also became leaders in the Lok Sabha. (ANI)
16-year-old boy injured after bore gun accidentally goes off in Kupwara
Srinagar: A 16-year-old boy was injured after accidentally sustaining a gunshot injury at his residence in Anwarabad Salkoot area of north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Friday. An official said that the incident occurred when the teenager was accidentally hit by a shot fired from a licensed bore gun kept at home. He said the injured []
Iranian Hacker Wanted by US Arrested in Montenegro Over $3.4 Billion Cyberattack Case
Montenegrin police, in coordination with the FBI, arrested an Iranian national wanted by US authorities for allegedly orchestrating cyberattacks that caused an estimated $3.4 billion in damages. He now faces extradition proceedings to the United States
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Calls for Dialogue and Statesmanship in South Asia
Srinagar: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Molvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, while speaking at the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid Srinagar on Youm-e-Ashoora, said that the tragedy of Karbala is not merely a chapter of history, but an eternal lesson in truth, patience, justice and sacrifice. Mirwaiz said Imam Hussain (RA) was not in search of war or confrontation. []
Elaborate arrangements in place for 10th Muharram procession: IGP Kashmir
Srinagar: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, VK Birdi, on Friday said elaborate multi-tiered security and traffic arrangements have been put in place for the 10th Muharram (Ashura) procession from Gulshan Abad to Zadibal to ensure the safe and smooth movement of mourners. Speaking with reporters, the IGP Kashmir, said mourners from different parts of []
Lieutenant Governor joins Youm-e-Ashuras Zuljinah procession at Zadibal in Srinagar
Srinagar, June 26: On the solemn occasion of Youm-e-Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today joined the Zuljinah procession at Zadibal in Srinagar. I pay humble tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. Their supreme sacrifice for peace, love, and compassion remains an eternal guide to building a society rooted in equality and harmony. Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) gave the timeless message of selfless service and compassion for the underprivileged. The society must draw inspiration from his noble life and virtues, walking the righteous path of truth, justice, and humanity, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also served refreshments among the mourners.
LG Manoj Sinha Joins Ashura Procession at Zadibal, Offers Chaddar to Zuljinah
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday joined the Youm-e-Ashura procession at Zadibal in Srinagar, where he paid rich tributes to the supreme sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. The Lieutenant Governor participated in the solemn procession and was presented with a black armband by mourners as a mark of respect during the []
Kashmir Experts Call for Urgent Action to Protect Glaciers, Wetlands and Rivers
Experts warn of worsening ecological crisis as melting glaciers, shrinking wetlands and illegal mining threaten Jammu and Kashmir's fragile environment
Kashmir Unrest Backdrop for Ajay Devgns Next Film Chauhaan
Action thriller featuring Ajay Devgn draws on Kashmir unrest backdrop; teaser triggers online debate over its theme and dialogue
We Hope Ashura Procession Will Soon Return to Its Original Traditional Route: CM Omar
Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday expressed hope that the Youm-e-Ashura procession would soon be restored to its original traditional route, saying his government would continue its efforts to ensure its full restoration. Speaking to reporters after joining mourners at Zadibal, Omar, said the month of Muharram, particularly the 10th day, Youm-e-Ashura, holds immense []
Centre Reveals Names of Six Personnel Killed During 2025 Operation Sindoor, Mostly in Kashmir
Government officially identifies six Armed Forces personnel killed during Operation Sindoor; names inscribed at the National War Memorial more than a year after the operation
Light to Moderate Rain Likely Across J&K Till June 30; IMD Warns of Thunderstorms, Gusty Winds
Rainfall activity to continue across Jammu and Kashmir over the next five days; MeT advises caution in landslide-prone areas
25-year-old labourer dies at Pulwama workplace
Pulwama: A 25-year-old labourer from Uttar Pradesh died after allegedly falling unconscious while working at a brick kiln in the Zadoora area of south Kashmirs Pulwama district on Friday. An official said that the labourer was working at the brick kiln in Zadoora when he suddenly fell unconscious. He was immediately rushed to District Hospital []
Kashmirs Centre for Excellence in Aromatic Crops Inaugurated in Sirhama
The newly inaugurated Centre of Excellence at Srihama will promote lavender and aromatic crop cultivation through modern technology, research and farmer training to boost incomes and strengthen sustainable agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir
Karbala Symbolises Courage, Truth and Justice: Omar Abdullah
Chief Minister says Imam Hussain's (A.S.) martyrdom remains an eternal symbol of courage, truth and unwavering commitment to justice
As wild animal attacks surge across Jammu and Kashmir, 278 deaths and thousands of injuries over two decades, survivors face not just trauma but financial ruin, reports Asrar Syeed Shaheena no longer visits her family orchard in Ganderbal. She has been attacked there twice by a black Himalayan bear, and the second time, she may []
Can Gurez Preserve Its Pastoral Economy and Agrarian Heritage Amid Rapid Change?
by Dr Suheel Rasool Mir How Gurez Valleys centuries-old farming and livestock traditions are adapting to tourism, development and a rapidly changing landscape. Gurez Valley, popularly known as go-hara (cow pasture), serves as a guardian of the ancient and rich Dard-Shina heritage, providing a nurturing environment for age-old, unique customs, rituals, and traditions. It is []
LG Manoj Sinha Calls for Collective Action on Intl Day Against Drug Abuse
Srinagar: On the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha called for renewed resolve to protect youth and realize the vision of a Nasha Mukt J&K. In a post on X, the LG said, On Intl Day Against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking, lets reaffirm our resolve to protect youth []
SKUAST-Kashmir Secures Patent for Smart Anti-Hail System, Takes Innovation Count to 125
SKUAST-Kashmir has secured a Government of India patent for an automated smart anti-hail net system designed to protect orchards from climate-induced crop damage, while achieving a milestone of 125 patents as it advances agricultural innovation and technology commercialisation
Srinagar Police Issues Public Advisory for Muharram Processions
Srinagar Police has urged the public to observe Muharram processions peacefully, follow designated routes, cooperate with authorities, and refrain from any activity that could disturb law and order or communal harmony
Srinagar Police Issues Public Advisory for Peaceful Muharram Processions
Srinagar: Ahead of Muharram, the Srinagar police have issued a public advisory urging people to observe the procession with peace, dignity and discipline. In a handout, the police said that maintain peace, discipline and communal harmony throughout the procession. Follow all directions issued by the administration and police authorities.Cooperate with traffic police and volunteers for []
JKAS officer dies of cardiac arrest in Jammu; LG, CM express grief
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have expressed profound grief over the sad and sudden demise of senior Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officer Romin Ahmad. Currently serving as Joint Director, Handloom Kashmir, Romin Ahmad died of cardiac arrest at his residence in Bhatindi in Jammu on Thursday. He was 46. A native of Surankote of Poonch district, Romin Ahmad was 2004 batch JKAS officer. He earlier also served as Chief Executive Officer, Accounts Officer Verinag Development Authority. The Nimaz-e-Janaza of the deceased officer was performed this evening. LG Sinha expressed deep grief over the untimely passing of Romin Ahmad. In a condolence message, the Lieutenant Governor said, Grieved by the untimely demise of Shri Romin Ahmad. As a dedicated officer, he served the people of Jammu Kashmir with dedication and commitment. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family in this difficult hour. May the Almighty grant eternal peace to the departed soul. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed profound grief over the demise of Romin Ahmad. In his condolence message, the Chief Minister described the passing of the officer as a significant loss to the administration. The Chief Minister extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends and colleagues in this hour of grief. He prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and for strength and fortitude to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. The sudden demise of the senior JKAS officer was widely condoled in the social, political and administrative circles.
Venezuelans Search Rubble for Survivors After 2 Strong Quakes Kill at Least 188
In response to the devastation, the US Treasury on Thursday moved to waive some sanctions until October 23 to allow transactions related to earthquake relief efforts in Venezuela that would otherwise be prohibited.
PDP fragmented collective voice of J&K people: MP Ramzan
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Additional General Secretary and MP Chowdry Muhammad Ramzan Wednesday claimed that PDP continues to survive on the political patronage of the BJP and functions as an instrument to fragment the collective voice of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a party convention of the Tral Constituency, organised []
MLA Sagar chairs meeting of Committee on Assurances
SRINAGAR: A formal meeting of the Committee on Assurances was held on Thursday at the Assembly Secretariat, Srinagar, under the chairmanship of MLA Ali Mohammad Sagar. MLA Iftkar Ahmad, Waheed ur Rehman Para, Shabir Ahmad Kullay along with senior officers from the Assembly Secretariat were present in the meeting. During the meeting, the Chairman underscored []
Dr Farooq recalls supreme sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS), his companions
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Thursday paid glowing tributes to Sayyid-ush-Shuhada Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his loyal companions saying that the unparalleled sacrifice of Karbala continues to illuminate the path of truth, justice, steadfastness and unwavering faith for all humanity. In his message, Dr. Farooq said that []
Bukhari pays tributes to Imam Hussain (AS), his companions
SRINAGAR: Paying glowing tributes to Imam-e-Aali Maqam Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his loyal companions, Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, Youm-e-Ashura reminds us of the timeless lesson taught by Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions: that we must always uphold truth and justice, and never bow before oppression, even if it []
Sakeena Itoo addresses mega public gathering at Aripal Tral
PULWAMA: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Thursday visited Aripal Tral and addressed a mega public gathering. The Minister was accompanied by Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan and MLA Hazratbal, Salman Sagar. While interacting with the gathering, the Minister assured the people that the government remains []
