Govt to Extend Special Relief to Fire-Hit Jammu Shopkeepers: Dy CM
Jammu, Oct 29: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday assured shopkeepers affected by the devastating fire at Shiva Market near Jammu Railway Station of all possible government assistance, saying special relief would be explored to help them rebuild their businesses and restore their livelihoods. Choudhary gave the assurance during a visit [] The post Govt to Extend Special Relief to Fire-Hit Jammu Shopkeepers: Dy CM appeared first on Northlines .
Woman Killed, Three Injured as Tempo Plunges Off Road in Reasi
Reasi, Oct 29: A 45-year-old woman was killed and three others, including a minor girl, were injured after a tempo skidded off the road and rolled down near Last Galla in the Dansal area of Reasi district during the intervening night of Wednesday and Thursday, officials said. The injured were shifted to a nearby hospital, [] The post Woman Killed, Three Injured as Tempo Plunges Off Road in Reasi appeared first on Northlines .
Srinagar, Oct 29: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday called upon youth to stay away from drugs and actively participate in sports and nation-building, saying their energy, confidence and positive thinking were crucial to building a peaceful, progressive and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing the closing ceremony of Pedal Through Paradise 2026 at Police [] The post Youth Are J&Ks Strength, Must Stay Away From Drugs: LG Sinha appeared first on Northlines .
Special Traffic Plan For Darbar Move On Oct 31, Nov 1: DIG Traffic Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 29: Heavy traffic will not be allowed from Jammu towards Srinagar during the Darbar Move movement on October 31 and November 1, while fruit-laden trucks will be given priority, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Kashmir Haseeb Ur Rehman said on Thursday. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Kashmir Haseeb Ur Rehman said a [] The post Special Traffic Plan For Darbar Move On Oct 31, Nov 1: DIG Traffic Kashmir appeared first on Northlines .
Spain Train Collision Kills 68, Red Signal Failure Suspected
URDA (Spain), Oct 28: At least 68 people were killed and 80 injured after a high-speed Renfe train collided with a stationary Iryo train in Spain on Wednesday, triggering a major rescue operation and an investigation into a suspected signalling failure. Spains Health Minister Monica Garcia said 15 of the injured were in very serious [] The post Spain Train Collision Kills 68, Red Signal Failure Suspected appeared first on Northlines .
India Backs UN Call to End US Embargo on Cuba
United Nations, Oct 29: India has voted in favour of a UN General Assembly resolution calling for an end to the US economic, commercial and financial embargo on Cuba, urging the lifting of restrictions to help the Caribbean nation achieve its development aspirations. The 193-member General Assembly adopted the resolution on Wednesday, with 130 countries [] The post India Backs UN Call to End US Embargo on Cuba appeared first on Northlines .
EOW Kashmir Files Chargesheet Against Five in Alleged Migrant Property Fraud Involving 1 Crore
Srinagar, Oct 29: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet in FIR No. 34/2017 under Sections 420, 419, 467, 468, 471 and 120-B RPC before the Honble court of CJM Sopore against five accused persons in a case involving alleged cheating, forgery and fraudulent sale of migrant property. The accused persons who were found involved during investigation are; Brij Nath S/o Tara Chand R/o Amit Nagar Muthi Jammu. Gh. Mohi-Ud-din Dar S/o Ab Khaliq Dar R/o Samson Budgam, Gh. Mohd Sheikh S/o Ab. Ahad Sheikh R/o Sachin Banit Beerwah Budgam, Zahoor Ahmed Dar S/o Gh. Mohammad Dar R/o Margipora Pattan & Reyaz Ahmad Rather S/o Mohd Sultan Rather R/o Margaripora Pattan Baramulla. The case was registered on a written complaint alleging fraudulent sale of 14 kanals and 3 marlas of land bearing Survey No. 349 at Mouza Wussan, Goshbugh Pattan, owned by Jawahar Lal Bhat. Despite payments exceeding Rs. 1 crore, possession was not handed over nor the amount refunded. Investigation revealed that the accused individuals hatched a criminal conspiracy in connivance with each other to cheat the complainant by resorting impersonation, fabricated identity documents and misuse of a purported Power of Attorney. Two of the accused, Brij Nath @ Soom Nath @ Hadi Nath @ Mohan Lal and Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Dar were arrested in late September. Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Dar secured bail, while Brij Nath remains in Central Jail. Other cases against both accused are also under investigation. The Economic Offences Wing Srinagar had earlier filed a chargesheet in Case FIR No. 27/2021 in August 2023 against Brij Nath Bhat, S/o Late Tara Chand Bhat, R/o Indira Nagar, Srinagar (A/P House No. 156, Amit Nagar, Muthi, District Jammu), and Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh, S/o Abdul Ahad Sheikh, R/o Sachen Bannet, Beerwah, District Budgam, making this the second chargesheet filed against both accused persons. SSP EOW Kashmir advises the public to verify land ownership and documents thoroughly before property transactions to prevent fraud and financial losses.
EOW Kashmir Files Chargesheet Against Five in Migrant Land Fraud Case
SRINAGAR: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch Jammu Kashmir has filed a chargesheet against five persons in an alleged migrant property fraud case involving the purported sale of 14 kanals and 3 marlas of land in Baramulla district after payments exceeding Rs 1 crore, officials said. The chargesheet in FIR No. 34/2017 []
EOW Kashmir files chargesheet against five in alleged migrant property fraud case
Srinagar: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of the Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet against five persons for allegedly cheating a complainant of over Rs 1 crore in a fraudulent sale of migrant property in north Kashmirs Baramulla district, officials said on Thursday. The chargesheet was filed before the court of the Chief []
Over 3,000 Participate in Jammu Kashmir Police Cycling Race in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: More than 3,000 people took part in the Pedal Through Paradise 2026 cycling race organised by Jammu and Kashmir Police in Srinagar on Thursday, with ADGP Armed Nitish Kumar saying the turnout reflected rising awareness about fitness and health in Kashmir. Kumar told reporters that the event had received around 5,000 entries, with more []
Over 3,000 participate in Pedal Through Paradise cycle race at Dal Lake
'Pedal Through Paradise reflects growing fitness awareness in Kashmir: ADGP
Srinagar, Oct 29: Over 3,000 people participated in the Pedal Through Paradise 2026 cycle race organised by J&K Police in Srinagar on Thursday, with ADGP Armed Nitish Kumar saying the turnout reflected growing awareness about fitness in Kashmir. We had around 5,000 entries in this race. And now, as you can see, more than 3,000 people have participated, Kumar told reporters. He said organised under the Fit India initiative, the event featured different categories, including children, women and participants above the age of 45. This is a very auspicious occasion. And it shows how awareness has increased towards fitness in Kashmir. And how people are passionate about health, he said. Highlighting the participation of young children, Kumar said one child had even come in a cradle to participate in the race. He said a concluding ceremony would be held at the Police Golf Course, where Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was the chief guest, and the participants and winners would be awarded. Kumar congratulated everyone who contributed to making the event successful.(KNO)
Anantnag Bar Association Elections Declared Null and Void
SRINAGAR: The District Magistrate Anantnag has declared the District Bar Association elections held on October 27 null and void, citing violations of official orders and failure to fulfil mandatory requirements. In an order dated October 28, the District Magistrate said the elections had been conducted despite an existing prohibition and without obtaining the administrations permission. []
DC Srinagar attends final of 5th Edition of Inter-College Mens Volleyball Tournament at GCoE
Srinagar, Oct 28: Deputy Commissioner (DC), Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, on Wednesday attended the final of the 5th Edition of the Inter-College Mens Volleyball Tournament 2026, held at the Multipurpose Hall of Government College of Education (GCoE), M.A. Road, Srinagar. The tournament was organised by the Department of Physical Education, Government College of Education (IASE) Srinagar, under Cluster University Srinagar, providing a vibrant platform for young athletes from various City Colleges to showcase their sporting talent, volleyball skills, teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship. Among others present on the occasion were Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Nodal Principal, Kashmir Division Colleges, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, IAS Probationer, Aaksh Garg, College faculty members, students, participant athletes, sports coaches and other concerned. The Deputy Commissioner who attended the final match as the Chief Guest and presented trophies to the winner, runner-up and second runner-up teams during felicitation ceremony in recognition of their performance in the tournament. The final match was played between Islamia College of Science and Commerce and Sri Pratap College, with Islamia College of Science and Commerce emerging victorious after an engaging contest. Sri Pratap College secured the runner-up position, while Government College of Education finished third in the tournament. While interacting with the participating athletes, the DC highlighted the importance of promoting sports and extracurricular activities in educational institutions, emphasising their role in nurturing discipline, leadership, teamwork and a healthy competitive spirit among students. He underscored the importance of encouraging greater participation in sports alongside academic pursuits to ensure the holistic development of young people. During his visit to the College, the Deputy Commissioner also inaugurated upgraded College Auditorium undertaken by the District Administration Srinagar using convergence of funds to improve the facility's infrastructure, functionality and overall utility. He took stock of the improvements being carried out to strengthen the auditorium's capacity to host a wide range of academic, cultural and institutional activities. The upgradation is aimed at providing students and faculty members with an improved space for organising seminars, conferences, workshops, cultural programmes, academic presentations and other important college events. Addressing the gathering, the DC said that strengthening educational infrastructure and integrating modern technology into academic spaces were important for enhancing the overall teaching-learning environment. He noted that the upgraded auditorium, equipped with contemporary audio-visual facilities, would enable the College to organise academic programmes, seminars, conferences, presentations, cultural activities and other institutional events more effectively. He added that the newly installed video wall would facilitate digital presentations, interactive teaching-learning activities and the dissemination of educational content, while providing students and faculty members with improved access to modern visual communication tools. The DC reiterated that the District Administration Srinagar remains committed to supporting educational institutions through infrastructure improvements and the provision of necessary facilities. He assured the College of continued support for further strengthening its infrastructure and promoting sports, cultural activities and other extracurricular initiatives. Earlier, Principal, Kashmir Division Colleges, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, in his welcome address expressed her gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, for the support extended by the District Administration to Government College of Education. She particularly acknowledged the provision of the State-of-the-Art Video Wall, Air Conditioners and other essential equipment, stating that these facilities would help improve the institution's infrastructure and enhance its capacity to organise academic and extracurricular programmes.
Man crushed to death by parcel train in Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 29: A man was crushed to death after being run over by a parcel train near Machuwa on the outskirts of Srinagar, officials said. An official said that the man was run over by the parcel train near Machuwa on the citys outskirts this morning. He was identified as Jhon Mohammad, a resident of Reasi district in Jammu. The official said the exact circumstances leading to the accident were being verified, while his body was later removed from the track. An investigation is underway.(KNO)
NIT Srinagar organises e-waste, cleanliness, plantation drives under SCDPM 6.0
SKUAST-K, AIH inaugurates conference on plant physiology, horticulture improvement
Srinagar, Oct 28: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir), in collaboration with the Academy for Indian Horticulture (AIH), Bengaluru, inaugurated a three-day national conference on Applications of Plant Physiology for Crop Improvement, Quality Enhancement and Post-Harvest Management in Horticulture at Nundreshi Convention Centre, Shalimar Campus. The conference organised by Division of Basic Sciences and Humanities, Faculty of Horticulture, brought together scientists, academicians, researchers, industry representatives and students to discuss advances in plant physiology and their applications in crop improvement, quality enhancement and sustainable horticultural production. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, the chief guest, emphasised the role of plant physiology in developing productive, resource-efficient and climate-resilient horticultural systems. He called for science-driven solutions to address climate change, improve crop quality, reduce post-harvest losses and translate research into practical benefits for farmers. He also highlighted the importance of the SKUAST-KashmirAIH collaboration in fostering scientific exchange and research partnerships. The inaugural session was attended by Dr. Surender Kumar Tikoo, President, AIH; Dr. N. K. Krishna Kumar, Secretary, AIH; Prof. Nataraja Karaba, Dean, Postgraduate Studies, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru; and Dr. R. G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech Limited. Welcoming the delegates, Dr. Javeed Iqbal Ahmad Bhat, Organising Secretary and Professor and Head, Division of Basic Sciences and Humanities, highlighted the importance of plant physiology in addressing climatic variability, environmental stress and post-harvest challenges. Dr. N. K. Krishna Kumar underscored the importance of collaborative research and stronger partnerships between academic institutions, professional academies and industry to address emerging challenges in horticulture. The keynote address was delivered by Prof. R. Uma Shaanker, eminent plant scientist and former Head, Department of Crop Physiology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru. He highlighted the relevance of plant physiological research to crop improvement and sustainable horticultural production. A major highlight was the presentation of the Academy for Indian Horticulture Lifetime Achievement Awards to Dr. Surender Kumar Tikoo and Dr. R. D. Rawal, former Principal Scientist and Head, Division of Plant Pathology, ICARIndian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, in recognition of their contributions to horticultural science. Books, publications and the conference souvenir were also released. Prof. Ashaq Hussain Pandit, Dean, Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-Kashmir, delivered the vote of thanks. Scheduled for October 2729, the conference features keynote lectures, invited talks, oral and poster presentations, and technical sessions on climate resilience, stress physiology, plant growth regulation, orchard productivity, precision agriculture, protected cultivation, plant breeding, biotechnology, genomics and post-harvest management.
Vigilance Awareness Week : CUK, ACB hold workshop on Probity for Prosperity
Ganderbal, Oct 28: As part of the Vigilance Awareness Week, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), in collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Srinagar, organised a workshop on Probity for Prosperity for the faculty members and administrative staff at Tulmulla campus, here on Wednesday. The week is being observed across the country from October 26 to November 1, 2026. Speaking on the occasion, Registrar, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, emphasised that transparent procedures, careful documentation and responsible decision-making could reduce avoidable lapses and strengthen public confidence in institutions. He observed that errors could sometimes arise from inadequate familiarity with rules and procedures, making awareness and preventive measures important. Drawing on his experience in higher-education administration, he stressed that institutions should minimise the scope for complaints by ensuring that decisions and processes were conducted properly and transparently. He acknowledged the ACBs work and called for a preventive approach that addresses weaknesses before they lead to consequences. Addressing the gathering, DSP ACB, Mehraj-ud-Din Raina said corruption could not be tackled by investigative agencies alone and required the collective efforts of public institutions, government departments, educational establishments and citizens. He observed that the true prosperity of an institution should be reflected not only in its infrastructure and achievements but also in fairness, transparency and accountability. He emphasised that public funds and institutional resources should be used responsibly and that proper documentation and transparent procedures were essential to preventing irregularities. ACB Inspector, Manzoor Ahmed Beigh, spoke about the functioning of the Bureau and the procedures followed in investigating corruption complaints. He explained that complaints were examined through verification and other prescribed procedures before further action was taken, as applicable under law. He identified procurement, construction, recruitment, admissions, scholarship distribution and the utilisation of research grants as areas requiring transparency in educational institutions. He clarified that a procedural lapse did not automatically amount to corruption and that each complaint had to be examined on its merits and the available evidence. Earlier, welcoming the participants, Dean, School of Legal Studies, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir, said corruption was not confined to bribery or the exchange of money but also included the misuse of authority, favouritism and failure to discharge official responsibilities. Comparing corruption to cancer, he said it gradually weakens the social, economic and cultural foundations of society. Emphasising the importance of honesty, he said integrity earned greater respect than material wealth. Referring to Mahatma Gandhi, former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he said these personalities continued to command respect because of their principles and commitment to public service. Addressing the gathering, Dean Students Welfare, Dr. Jehirul Islam, said, Probity is not merely a compliance requirement or a set of rules to be followed; it is a conscious commitment to doing what is right even when no one is watching. True and lasting prosperity must rest on the foundations of integrity, honesty and transparency. Sr. Asst Prof. Dr. Firdous Ahmad Sofal who conducted the programme and proposed the vote of thanks, said the objective of the workshop was to contribute towards building a culture of honesty and accountability in public institutions, in keeping with the theme Probity for Prosperity.
DC Budgam reviews progress of TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan
Budgam, October 28: Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Jatin Kishore, today chaired a meeting to review the progress of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan across the district, focusing on intensified screening, improved diagnostic facilities and comprehensive care for tuberculosis (TB) patients. During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed screening activities, identification of vulnerable populations and high-risk areas, diagnostic testing, registration of patients on the Ni-kshay portal and distribution of nutritional assistance under the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana. Emphasising a focused and coordinated approach, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Health Department to ensure 100 per cent screening coverage of the target population, with special attention to vulnerable areas and high-risk groups. He stressed the importance of timely examination and access to X-ray, microscopy and NAAT testing facilities to facilitate early detection and diagnosis. He further directed the department to ensure the availability and operational readiness of diagnostic equipment, including NAAT machines, and enhance testing capacity to facilitate prompt diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment. Highlighting the importance of community-level interventions, the Deputy Commissioner underscored the role of ASHA workers in maintaining regular contact with patients, conducting follow-up visits, raising awareness and promoting treatment adherence. He also called for systematic monitoring of their activities to strengthen outreach and provide effective support to vulnerable populations. The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned officers to ensure the timely distribution of nutritional support kits and monetary assistance to eligible patients under the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana and the Ni-kshay Mitra initiative. To strengthen accountability and ensure effective implementation, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to submit weekly progress reports and monitor key indicators daily. He also instructed for carrying out intensified Active Case Finding (ACF) campaigns, expanded awareness activities and regular assessment across the District. The Deputy Commissioner underscored that early diagnosis, uninterrupted treatment, nutritional support and active community participation are essential to achieving the goal of a TB-free district. He directed all concerned officers to accord the campaign high priority and ensure coordinated, time-bound implementation of the prescribed interventions across the district. The meeting was attended by the Joint Director (JD), Planning; CMO Budgam; District Tuberculosis Officer; Block Medical Officers (BMOs); and other concerned officers.
NPPA Revises Prices of 543 Anti-Cancer Medicine Brands, New Rates From November 9
SRINAGAR: The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has revised the maximum retail prices (MRPs) of 543 brands of anti-cancer medicines, with the new rates coming into effect from November 9, 2026, in a move aimed at making cancer treatment more affordable. The revised price list, released by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Union Ministry []
CEO SSCL reviews e-bus operations, directs service improvements
Srinagar, Oct 28: Chief Executive Officer, Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), Dr. Basharat Qayoom, on Wednesday reviewed the functioning of Srinagars electric bus services and inspected the E-Bus depot at Pantha Chowk, directing officials and service providers to improve fleet utilisation, maintenance, operational monitoring and passenger convenience. The CEO was accompanied by the Additional CEO SSCL, General Manager, Public Transport Operations; Manager, Operations and Enforcement (E-Bus); Statistical Officer; and representatives of Tata and Chalo Mobility. During the review, Dr. Basharat took stock of the deployment and operational performance of the electric bus fleet. He stressed the need for effective monitoring of bus schedules, route-wise deployment and service frequency to ensure punctuality and minimise inconvenience to commuters. The CEO directed the concerned SSCL officials to closely monitor daily operations, review the performance of individual routes and ensure prompt resolution of operational issues in coordination with the service providers. Emphasising the responsibility of the operating agency, the CEO stressed the need for regular preventive maintenance, timely repairs, effective charging management and maximum availability of roadworthy buses. Tatas representatives were asked to ensure close coordination between depot and field teams and to address technical and maintenance-related issues promptly, in accordance with the applicable contractual obligations. The role of Chalo Mobility in passenger-facing digital services was also highlighted, with emphasis on the reliability of real-time bus tracking, digital ticketing and passenger information. Accurate service updates and timely communication of route changes or disruptions are important to help commuters plan their journeys and access public transport conveniently. Dr. Basharat further emphasised better coordination among SSCL officials, Tata and Chalo Mobility, along with regular review of operational performance, passenger complaints and service-related gaps. He stressed that issues affecting commuters must be identified and addressed in a time-bound manner. At the Pantha Chowk depot, the CEO reviewed the arrangements supporting the operation and maintenance of the fleet and underscored the importance of operational preparedness, adherence to prescribed standards and efficient utilisation of available infrastructure. The review focused on strengthening accountability among all stakeholders and ensuring that Srinagars electric bus services operate efficiently, reliably and in the interest of the travelling public.
Div Com Kashmir reviews preparations for UT Diwas, Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at SKICC
Srinagar, Oct 28: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Wednesday reviewed the preparations for the celebrations of Union Territory Foundation Day (UT Diwas) and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas during a meeting at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Srinagar. The meeting was attended by Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC); Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Director Information; SSP Traffic; Vice-Chairman, Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA); heads of various departments and police officers. During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner took a detailed review of the arrangements being put in place by various departments for the two important events. He emphasised the need for close inter-departmental coordination, timely execution of assigned responsibilities and ensuring that all arrangements are completed well in advance. Reviewing the preparations for Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, he stressed the importance of ensuring enthusiastic participation of departments, students and citizens in the Run for Unity, underscoring the spirit of national unity, integrity and collective responsibility that the occasion represents. The Divisional Commissioner also reviewed the arrangements for UT Diwas and called for organising both occasions in a befitting manner. He took stock of participant mobilisation, transport facilities, traffic management, public address systems, installation of hoardings and standees, beautification of stages, display screens, distribution of T-shirts and caps, refreshments and the appointment of nodal officers. Directing the concerned officers to ensure meticulous planning and effective implementation, the Div Com stressed that all necessary arrangements must be put in place at the earliest to facilitate the smooth and successful conduct of the programmes. Later, the Divisional Commissioner inspected the arrangements at the back lawns of SKICC for the flag-off ceremony of the Run for Unity. He also reviewed the stage development and installation of hoardings, directing the concerned agencies to ensure proper coordination and readiness at the venue. He emphasised that all departments must work in close coordination to ensure that the celebrations are conducted smoothly, with befitting arrangements and overwhelming public participation.
Minister Dar calls for tech-driven transformation of J
At CII Apple Conclave, stresses precision horticulture, smart farming, stronger global market linkages SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar on Wednesday called for a comprehensive transformation of Jammu and Kashmirs apple industry through technological innovations, precision horticulture, smart farming and improved market connectivity []
NC leaders, workers, prominent citizens call on Ali Sagar, Firdous
SRINAGAR: The party leaders, legislators and office-bearers of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference from various areas on Wednesday called upon newly inducted Minister Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar at his residence and extended congratulations and conveyed their best wishes. Sagar urged party functionaries to further strengthen the organisation at the grassroots level, improve coordination among []
Inclusion of new ministers will accelerate dev, ensure swift grievance: Tanvir Sadiq
SRINAGAR: The J&K National Conference Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq Wednesday said elected National Conference government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is making sustained efforts to promote public welfare, ensure the delivery of basic amenities and accelerate the pace of development. He said the induction of four additional ministers into the Council []
Major judicial reshuffle : 78 civil judges transferred in J
Srinagar, Oct 28: The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has ordered the transfer and posting of 78 Civil Judges (Junior Division) across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, attached 10 trainee judicial officers to the J&K Judicial Academy and placed 11 promoted Civil Judges (Senior Division) under the Registrar Judicial, Jammu, pending further []
Sakeena Itoo calls for n quality edu, improved infra, student-centric facilities
Inaugurates newly constructed Administrative Block at Womens College Srinagar SRINAGAR: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health & Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo on Wednesday inaugurated the newly constructed Administrative Block at Government Womens College, M.A. Road here, marking a significant step towards strengthening the institutional infrastructure of the prestigious womens educational institution. Speaking on the occasion, []
Dy CM directs timely completion of road, bridge projects in Udhampur
UDHAMPUR: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary on Wednesday conducted an extensive tour of Udhampur district and inspected the ongoing developmental works on the PWD road from Jakhani Naka Point to via Lower Balli being executed under NABARD. He also inspected the construction site of a 165-metre-span steel girder double-lane motorable bridge over River Tawi. The []
LG Sinha releases Mission Sahasi poster, backs womens safety initiative
Srinagar, Oct 28: A delegation of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday. The delegation, as per an official statement, comprising Gaurav Attri, Zonal Organising Secretary, ABVP; Tilak Thakur, State Organising Secretary, ABVP Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh; Akeel Ahmad Tantray, National Executive Member, ABVP; and Anjum Saqib, Co-Convenor, Students for Seva (SFS), briefed the Lieutenant Governor on the upcoming initiative Mission Sahasi. The Lieutenant Governor commended the ABVPs initiative aimed at womens empowerment, self-defence training, confidence-building, and encouraging greater awareness about personal safety. On the occasion, the poster for Mission Sahasi was also released. As part of the initiative, ABVP will organise programmes with the objective of reaching out to students in educational institutions and local communities. Through self-defence training and awareness activities, the initiative seeks to nurture courage, discipline, confidence, and a sense of security among young women. ABVP will train 25,000 girl students across the Union Territories of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh.
SKUAST-K secures prestigious Indo-US collaborative research grant for AI-powered soybean breeding
Srinagar, Oct 28:In a significant boost to its international research engagement, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has secured a grant under the Indo-US Collaborative Research Programme to advance AI-powered soybean breeding through smart sensing technologies. The project, SoyWatch: Smart Sensing Network for Precision Soybean Breeding, is jointly supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), USA, and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, and brings together leading research institutions from both countries to develop technology-driven approaches for crop monitoring, disease detection and precision breeding. The three-year project brings together researchers from leading institutions in India and the United States to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and smart sensing technologies into soybean research and crop improvement. The international consortium comprises investigators from the University of Memphis, the University of Missouri and Kennesaw State University in the United States. The Indian partners include the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, SKUAST-K and the ICAR-National Soybean Research Institute, Indore. Representing SKUAST-K in the project are Dr Ajaz Ahmed Lone, Professor, Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Dryland Agriculture Research Station (DARS), Rangreth, and Dr Shabir Hussain Wani, Associate Professor, Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops (MRCFC), Khudwani. Their participation brings the University's expertise in plant genetics and breeding to an international research effort focused on developing technology-driven solutions for crop improvement. Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-K, congratulated the investigators on securing the international grant and commended their contribution to strengthening the university's research collaborations. He said that engagement with leading institutions in India and the United States would further enhance SKUAST-K's research capabilities, promote innovation and expand opportunities for collaborative work in emerging areas of agricultural science. The project aims to establish a smart sensing network integrated with multimodal AI tools to transform field-generated data into actionable insights for plant breeders. The technology is expected to facilitate precise monitoring of crop performance, early identification of pest and disease challenges, and improved yield forecasting. These capabilities can help researchers make more informed breeding decisions, assess crop traits efficiently and accelerate the development of improved soybean varieties. Scheduled to commence in October 2026, the project will run for three years and draw on the complementary expertise of participating institutions in plant breeding, smart sensing and artificial intelligence. The grant marks a significant addition to SKUAST-K's international research engagement and underscores the University's efforts to advance agricultural research through scientific collaboration and technological innovation.
In setback to BJP, Congress wins Nagpur MLC seat
The Congress fielded sitting MLC Abhijeet Wanjari, who secured 67,231 votes, while the BJP fielded former MLA Sudhakar Kohale, who secured 63,960 votes
A U.S. District Judge dismissed the Trump administration's bid to halt ballot processing in California. This decision followed claims that some voters might not be U.S. citizens. The ruling aims to prevent disenfranchisement and election uncertainty. More than 3.7 million Californians have already cast their votes ahead of Election Day. Similar actions have been attempted by the administration in Washington and Alaska over electoral processes.
ED attaches land, buildings of Mohammad Ali Jauhar University in Rampur in money laundering case
ED found that funds meant for public works were diverted to the University, government works were executed on its private campus, and funds from contractors who had been allotted government contracts were routed back to the Trust as donations, the statement said
Delhi HC refuses to entertain plea seeking 50 crore compensation for misery due to CJPs protests
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said several petitions had been filed in the Supreme Court by small traders who claimed their livelihoods had come to a standstill because of the protests
JD Vance-Linked Group In Bolsonaro Poll Probe! Brazil Investigates Alleged Plot Against Lula
A political controversy has erupted in Brazil after the Supreme Court ordered an investigation into possible foreign involvement in Flvio Bolsonaro's presidential campaign following his defeat to Luiz Incio Lula da Silva. The probe includes reported contacts with the Rockbridge Network, a conservative US organisation co-founded by Vice President JD Vance, alongside questions about election betting platforms and online political advertising. Rockbridge has denied involvement, and there is no established evidence that Vance personally participated in any alleged election interference. The investigation comes as Bolsonaro's departure for the United States despite a passport surrender order adds to the controversy, while Donald Trump has questioned Brazil's election result.
Jio Platforms shares surge 21% on debut, overtake Airtel in market cap
Jio Platforms made a remarkable entrance in the stock market, soaring 21.4% above its IPO price on the first day of trading. Closing at
IN-SPACe picks 6 AI space projects for grants of up to Rs 1-cr each
Election Commission reviews Punjab poll readiness for 2027 elections
The News Mill
Indian equities ended lower on Wednesday, primarily driven by selling in heavyweight stocks. Information technology and oil and gas shares experienced significant declines, falling more than 2%. The Nifty 50 index settled at 22,699, down 51 points, indicating ongoing resistance at 22,800. Several companies, including Jio Platforms and Hero MotoCorp, reported their quarterly earnings that impacted market sentiment.
Working in UK? Per diem payments are not taxed
Karnataka SIR: 64.5 lakh voters potentially missing in rolls, majority of them young
Elector-to-population ratio released officially by Karnataka CEO shows under-enrolment of about 64.5 lakh electors, of whom roughly 38.41 lakh are in the 18 to 29 age group.
Weight-loss jab boom brings needles warning for recyclers
Recycling bosses say used needles are increasingly being found among household waste.
Wildfire extinguished near Toraja's traditional stone burial sites
AAP threatens protest if Delhi govt does not withdraw home alcohol delivery policy in 24 hours
The News Mill
Trump jokes USD 5,000 buys little at Mar-a-Lago amid election push
Trump jokes USD 5,000 buys little at Mar-a-Lago amid election push
Assam CM launches Rs 8 crore projects and digital app in Tinsukia
The News Mill
On debut, Jio 2nd most valuable company, behind only parent Reliance Industries
Scientists spot icy object beyond Pluto that could be a new dwarf planet
The discovery highlights how advanced telescopes are helping astronomers uncover distant icy worlds and deepen understanding of the solar system.
FCC chair wants to let prisons jam illegal cellphones
The agency will vote next month on relaxing its long-standing opposition to jammers.
I Put a Bunch of AI Agents in Charge of a Fantasy Soccer Team. Theyre Not Better Than HumansYet
To experiment with AIs predictive skills, I let Codex loose on a fantasy team. It tried to bench Erling Haaland at first, but it soon learned the erro... I Put a Bunch of AI Agents in Charge of a Fantasy Soccer Team. Theyre Not Better Than HumansYet
SC summons Sanjay Raut in contempt case
Atomic magnetism reveals why iron, but not chromium, can produce ammonia using sunlight
Two nearly identical materials have completely different chemical behavior. Research teams at the University of Vienna and TU Wien studied catalysts that use the energy of sunlight to produce ammonia. Surprisingly, when the three iron atoms that form tiny triangles in these catalysts are replaced by chromium atoms, the chemical reaction no longer takes place.
In 40 years, Kashmirs orchards grew fourfold, their thirst for water rose 295%
Traditional agricultures water needs decline 66% Combined agricultural water demand falls 18% Upper Jhelum population nearly triples in four decades Study flags potential water shortages by 2100 Srinagar, Oct 28: The steady disappearance of paddy fields and expansion of fruit orchards across Kashmir over the past four decades has altered more than the Valleys agricultural landscape. It has also changed who needs how much water, and for what. A new study by researchers at the University of Kashmir has found that between 1981 and 2020, the area under horticulture in the Upper Jhelum Basin increased nearly fourfold, from 165 square kilometres to 641 square kilometres. Over the same period, the annual water requirement of horticulture rose from 110 million cubic metres to 434 million cubic metres, an increase of 295 per cent. The findings, published in the international journal Applied Water Science, show that horticulture has overtaken traditional agriculture in its water requirement in the basin, reversing a pattern that prevailed four decades ago. In 1981, traditional agriculture required 716 million cubic metres of water annually, more than six times the requirement of horticulture. By 2020, its demand had fallen to 246 million cubic metres, while that of horticulture had climbed to 434 million cubic metres. Put simply, for every 100 litres required by traditional agriculture in 1981, horticulture needed just 15. Four decades later, horticulture required approximately 176 litres for every 100 litres needed by traditional agriculture. The shift is significant in a region where the conversion of agricultural land into orchards has been driven by changing economic priorities, with horticulture emerging as a major source of rural income. The study, conducted by Ain us Saba Qazi and Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, examined changes in land use, population and water requirements in the Upper Jhelum Basin, which includes the Lidder, Kuthar, Bringi, Sandran and Vishav watersheds. Its findings, however, reveal a distinction often lost in discussions about the impact of expanding orchards on Kashmir's water resources. Despite the sharp rise in horticultural demand, the combined annual water requirement of traditional agriculture and horticulture actually declined from 826 million cubic metres in 1981 to 680 million cubic metres in 2020. The reason lies in the simultaneous contraction of traditional agriculture, whose water requirement fell by nearly 66 per cent. The figures, therefore, do not establish that the shift towards horticulture has increased the overall agricultural demand for water. They show instead that the nature of that demand has changed substantially, with implications for how irrigation systems are planned and managed. The researchers also found that the population of the basin nearly tripled between 1981 and 2020, placing additional demands on water resources beyond agriculture. To assess what lies ahead, the study modelled water requirements under five socioeconomic scenarios extending to 2100. The projections point to the possibility of substantial unmet domestic water demand under certain scenarios, depending on future population growth and development patterns. These are projections, not forecasts of an inevitable shortage. But they draw attention to a planning challenge: Kashmir's water infrastructure must cater to a population and agricultural economy considerably different from those for which much of its irrigation network was originally developed. The implications are particularly relevant to the Upper Jhelum Basin, where streams and rivers serve agricultural, horticultural and domestic requirements, and where changes in land use can alter the location and timing of water demand. For decades, the economic argument for converting farmland into orchards has centred on the higher returns from fruit cultivation. The new research adds another dimension to that transition by quantifying how it has changed the basin's water requirements. It also suggests that measuring the impact of agricultural change solely through the expansion of orchards would give an incomplete picture. The decline in traditional cultivation, changes in population and future domestic requirements must be considered together. Forty years ago, traditional agriculture dominated the basin's irrigation demand. Today, horticulture accounts for the larger share. The challenge for water planners is no longer simply how much water Kashmir's farms require, but where, when and for whom it will be needed.
Justice Department makes a splash with politically sensitive cases and actions during midterm blitz
President Donald Trumps Justice Department has been scrambling before the midterm election with a blitz of headline-making actions and cases that some critics say reeks of politics
Man whose 'hijack' text caused plane to turn back said it was banter with co-worker, police say
The man who was arrested for sending a message that he was gonna hijack a plane told officers that it was banter between co-workers and he had no intention of hijacking the plane
Major fire destroys shops in Vasco; Goa CM pledges support
The News Mill
Trump jokes $5,000 buys barely a burger at Mar-a-Lago
Trump jokes $5,000 buys barely a burger at Mar-a-Lago
Murder in Belfast: Sisters Seeking Justice review
Govt orders upgraded cybersecurity solutions
Srinagar, Oct 28: The Jammu and Kashmir government has ordered the implementation of upgraded versions of Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions across government departments and organisations to furtherstrengthen cybersecurity and secure e-governance. According to an order issued in this regard, Administrative Secretaries and heads of departments, PSUs and corporations have been directed to ensure compliance with the instructions. The directions refer to an earlier Circular No. 12-JK(GAD) of 2025 dated May 21, 2025, which prescribed cybersecurity practices, discontinuation of unauthorised digital assets and compliance with established IT governance protocols across government departments and organisations. It states that, in view of increasing cybersecurity threats to government IT infrastructure, particularly endpoints connected through NICNET/JK SWAN, the deployment of UEM and EDR solutions has assumed critical importance. According to the circular, these solutions provide centralised management of government endpoints, facilitate security compliance and vulnerability monitoring, enable early detection of cyber threats and support prompt responses to security incidents, thereby strengthening the government's overall cybersecurity framework. The circular further states that the licence support for existing versions of UEM and EDR solutions is due to expire. Accordingly, NIC Headquarters has procured upgraded versions to ensure continuity of security services and protection against emerging cyber threats. The upgraded solutions are now ready for implementation. A dedicated team of NIC cybersecurity personnel, designated as Cyber Warriors, will visit the concerned government departments and organisations for installation and deployment of the upgraded solutions on all endpoints connected to NICNET/JK SWAN. The exercise will be undertaken in a phased manner. Commissioner/Secretary to the Government M. Raju has impressed upon all Administrative Secretaries and heads of departments, PSUs and corporations to bring the contents of the circular to the notice of all officers and officials under their administrative control and extend full cooperation to the NIC team. The circular states that the initiative is aimed at ensuring secure and accountable e-governance.
Girl seriously injured in wolf attack at German wildlife park
The eight-year-old was in an enclosure with other children and a staff member when she was attacked.
LG felicitates SSF personnel for securing Drug-Free J&K campaign
Srinagar, Oct 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday felicitated senior officers and personnel of the Special Security Force (SSF) for their outstanding professionalism and dedication in ensuring the successful conduct of the 100-day Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir Campaign. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor commended the SSF for adding a remarkable chapter to the administrative and security history of the Union Territory through their courage, vigilance and exceptional competence. He said the SSF has emerged as a symbol of discipline, excellence and commitment. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the significance of the Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir Campaign, launched on April 11, 2026, as a transformative initiative aimed at mobilising society against drug abuse. The campaign was marked by an extensive Padyatra led by the Lieutenant Governor across all 20 districts of the Union Territory, fostering direct engagement between the administration and citizens. Praising the SSF's role in the initiative, the LG said the Force ensured meticulous security planning, seamless coordination and effective crowd management across diverse terrains and challenging conditions. From urban centres to remote rural areas and mountainous regions, the SSF maintained the highest standards of security while facilitating meaningful public interaction, he said. The Lieutenant Governor conveyed his best wishes to all SSF personnel and their families, expressing confidence that they would continue to serve the nation with courage, honour and commitment. Govind Jaiswal, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor; Swarn Singh Kotwal, DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range and former Director SSF; Hareesh H.P, Director SSF, and senior officials were present on the occasion.
Microsoft has never disclosed Azure's quarterly revenue in dollars. But for the first time, we can see just how close it is getting to besting the biggest competitor in the market, AWS.
Emotional intelligence, tech complement each other: LG
Srinagar, Oct 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said emotional intelligence and technological capability complement each other, stressing that future-ready institutions must encourage continuous learning, adaptability, ethical awareness and multidisciplinary collaboration in an age of rapid technological change and artificial intelligence. Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Kashmir Chapter of the Centre for Regional Studies, Culture, Dialects and Emotional Intelligence of the University of Jammu, the Lieutenant Governor said the initiative would strengthen cultural, historical and human connections while preserving the region's diverse intellectual and linguistic traditions. He described the Centre as a unique and forward-looking confluence of regional studies, culture, dialects and emotional intelligence. The Lieutenant Governor observed that a region cannot be understood through geography alone. Languages, folklore, cultural practices, arts, faith, traditions and lived experiences together shape the identity of a place. The integration of regional knowledge with emotional intelligence would form the soul of the new Centre and help create a deeper understanding of society and the people, he said. He said the Centre's wide-ranging objectives including preservation of manuscripts, creation of digital archives, linguistic mapping, ethnographic studies, research on pilgrimage and tourism, mountain ecology, local entrepreneurship and fellowships for young scholars are unique endeavours by the University and would contribute to building a shared repository of knowledge for future generations. The LG underlined four key factors that make such a Centre relevant in contemporary times: the need to balance global connectivity with local identity, the urgency of preserving endangered languages and knowledge systems, the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to complex challenges, and the growing recognition of emotional well-being in education. He said that while technology is transforming societies, the preservation of cultural roots and human values remains equally important. The Lieutenant Governor said the main Centre at Jammu University's campus in Jammu and its Kashmir Chapter have the potential to emerge as a model institution for research, contributing to knowledge creation, cultural preservation and human-centred development while enhancing the global standing of the universities of Jammu and Kashmir. Prof Umesh Rai, Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Dr Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Research Studies; Dr Guneet Singh Sudan, Director Sub Office Kashmir; Prof Sangita Gupta, Dean, Planning and Development, and faculty members of the University of Jammu attended the ceremony. Dr GV Sundeep Chakravarthy, SSP Srinagar; Jatin Kishore, Deputy Commissioner Budgam; Shruti Awasthi, Regional Director, IGNCA, and senior officials of the civil and police administration were also present.
Rajasthan Panchayat Elections Witness 64.32% Voter Turnout; Batadu Leads with 78.30%
Rajasthans Panchayat elections saw a 64.32% turnout, with Batadu achieving the highest at 78.30%. Voting faced minor disruptions due to EVM issues. Rajasthan Panchayat Elections Witness 64.32% Voter Turnout; Batadu Leads with 78.30%
Cabinet expansion aftershocks continue in NC
Srinagar, Oct 28: The aftershocks of the National Conferences Cabinet expansion continued to reverberate on Wednesday, with Health Minister Sakeena Itoo defending the partys unity, supporters of veteran MLA Mubarak Gul staging a protest in Srinagars Press Colony, and Gurez legislator Nazir Ahmad Gurezis reported disappointment adding to the unease within the ruling party. A day after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inducted four legislators into his Council of Ministers, the celebrations of the new entrants were accompanied by visible disappointment among several senior leaders who had hoped to find a place in the government. The reactions have brought the partys internal dynamics into focus, raising questions about how the leadership will balance seniority, loyalty, regional representation and the expectations of legislators who have remained outside the Cabinet. Itoo sought to play down suggestions of a serious rift, describing the National Conference as a family and maintaining that differences of opinion were natural in a political organisation. She argued that not every legislator could be accommodated in the ministry and that grievances could be expressed within the partys democratic framework. Her remarks came as supporters of Gul took their disappointment to Press Colony, demanding that the veteran Eidgah MLA be accommodated in the Cabinet. Protesters reportedly wore white shrouds, held placards and raised slogans in his support, with some demanding that he resign from the party rather than accept his exclusion. Gul, a six-time MLA and former Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, had expressed disappointment over being overlooked. His subsequent appointment as National Conference general secretary by party president Farooq Abdullah has not prevented supporters from publicly questioning the decision to leave him out of the ministry. The discontent has also extended to Gurezi, whose absence from Tuesdays oath-taking ceremony attracted attention amid speculation over the names considered for ministerial positions. The newly inducted minister, Mir Saifullah, who went to Gurezi's residence to meet him, said: Gurezi is my close friend, and he is a basic soldier of NC; there is no question of him being angry with the party. Meanwhile, Abdul Majeed Larmi, the MLA from Anantnag West, made an emotional appeal to his supporters while addressing party workers, saying he had not cried for himself but for the people who had stood by him. Why shouldnt I cry for those who visited me and remained like a rock with me since 2014? Larmi said, referring to the loyalty and support of his workers over the years. Urging his supporters not to react in a manner that could go against the principles of the National Conference, Larmi asked them to remain committed to the party despite their disappointment. While acknowledging that he was hurt by being overlooked for a ministerial berth, he made it clear that he would continue with the party. His remarks reflected the emotional undercurrent surrounding the Cabinet expansion, with the disappointment of individual legislators increasingly intertwined with the expectations of their supporters. The leadership has sought to contain the fallout by emphasising party unity and the limitations on Cabinet strength. Omar Abdullahs adviser Nasir Aslam Wani acknowledged that every MLA aspired to become a minister but said the Union Territorys constitutional framework imposed constraints. The expansion saw Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shamima Firdous and Altaf Ahmad Kaloo inducted into the ministry. With the four appointments, the government filled the vacancies that had remained open for nearly two years and brought the Council of Ministers to its maximum permissible strength of nine, including the Chief Minister. The episode has left the National Conference leadership facing the delicate task of managing expectations without allowing disappointment to harden into a wider organisational dispute. While the party has maintained that the reshuffle was an exercise in governance, protests and emotional appeals from within its ranks have ensured that the political consequences of the Cabinet expansion continue to unfold.
LG allocates portfolios to ministers; CM Omar retains Tourism
Srinagar, Oct 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has assigned departmental charges to ministers in the Omar Abdullah-led Jammu and Kashmir government, formally outlining the distribution of government business through an order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) on Wednesday. According to Government Order No. 1690-JK(GAD) of 2026, dated October 28, the allocation has been made under Rule 4(2) of the Transaction of Business of the Government of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir Rules, 2019. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary has been assigned the Public Works (Roads and Buildings), Industries and Commerce, Labour and Employment, and Skill Development departments, placing key infrastructure and employment-related portfolios under his charge. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has retained the Tourism portfolio. Senior National Conference leader Ali Mohammad Sagar has been given Revenue, Power Development, Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR), and Election departments. Health and Medical Education, along with Social Welfare, have been assigned to Sakeena Masood Itoo, while Javed Ahmad Rana will oversee Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Tribal Affairs, and Transport. Javid Ahmed Dar has been entrusted with Agriculture Production, Finance, Mining and Cooperatives. His Finance portfolio places him at the centre of the government's fiscal management, while Agriculture Production remains a key department for a region where horticulture and farming are major sources of livelihood. Mir Saifullah has been assigned Planning, Development and Monitoring, Culture, Youth Services and Sports, and ARI and Trainings. Shamim Firdous will handle School Education, Higher Education and Jal Shakti, bringing the education sector and water resources under her charge. Altaf Ahmad Wani has been allocated Forest, Ecology and Environment, along with Rural Development and Panchayati Raj. These departments carry particular significance for Jammu and Kashmir amid growing concerns over environmental degradation, pressure on forests and water bodies, and the need to strengthen rural infrastructure. The order specifies that all departments and subjects not allocated to any minister will remain with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, allowing him to retain direct charge of the unassigned portfolios. The allocation formalises the distribution of departmental responsibilities across the council of ministers following the latest ministerial changes. The order was issued by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and published for general information by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo.
Forest panel rejects Uttarakhand HC relocation plan again over forest land concerns
The committee directed the State government to explore the possibility of locating the proposed project on suitable non-forest land before pursuing forest clearance
Haryana BJP Leader Accuses Congress of Misleading Public on Voter List Updates
Archana Gupta criticizes Congress for misleading voters about the special voter list revision process in Haryana. Haryana BJP Leader Accuses Congress of Misleading Public on Voter List Updates
ISI Project-Linked Persons Recruitment 2026
Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) has released the official notification for the recruitment of 5 Project-Linked Persons (Junior Research Assistants) posts. The last date to send the application by email is 01 November 2026. Further details are available at isical.ac.in.
Affordable Healthcare Cannot Remain a Promise
Healthcare is a basic human need, but for thousands of families in Kashmir it is becoming an increasingly unaffordable burden. The cost of consultation, diagnostic tests, medicines, hospitalisation and prolonged treatment has risen steadily, while household incomes have not kept pace. For a poor or lower-middle-income family, a medical emergency can wipe out years of savings, force people into debt and push children out of school. This is not merely a personal tragedy; it is a failure of public policy. Affordable healthcare cannot be measured only by the availability of hospitals and doctors. It must also be judged by whether an ordinary family can actually afford treatment when illness strikes. A hospital may exist nearby, but if diagnostic tests are expensive, essential medicines unavailable and specialist care beyond reach, access remains incomplete. The promise of universal healthcare loses meaning when patients are compelled to borrow money or sell property to pay for treatment. Kashmirs public health institutions continue to serve a large population under difficult circumstances. Doctors, nurses and other health workers often work under pressure, particularly in government hospitals where patient numbers far exceed available infrastructure. Yet the system needs stronger support, better planning and greater accountability. Overcrowded hospitals, long waiting periods, shortages of medicines and uneven distribution of specialists make treatment difficult for those who cannot turn to private healthcare. The expansion of private hospitals has increased choices for some, but it has also exposed the deep inequality in access to care. Medical treatment must not become a privilege reserved for those with the ability to pay. Regulatory mechanisms are needed to ensure transparency in hospital charges, prevent unnecessary procedures and protect patients from arbitrary billing. At the same time, the government must strengthen public hospitals so that people are not forced into private facilities merely because the public system is unavailable or overburdened. Preventive healthcare also deserves greater attention. Regular screening, maternal care, vaccination, nutrition programmes and early diagnosis can reduce the need for expensive treatment later. Primary health centres must be adequately staffed and equipped, especially in remote and rural areas. Healthcare should reach people before disease becomes an emergency. Insurance schemes and government assistance programmes can provide relief, but they must be simple, transparent and genuinely accessible. Families should not have to navigate complicated procedures while dealing with illness. Coverage must include medicines, diagnostics and long-term care, not only hospital admission. Affordable healthcare requires sustained public investment, responsible regulation and a patient-centred approach. The measure of progress is not the number of buildings constructed but the number of families protected from financial distress. Kashmir deserves a health system in which no one is forced to choose between treatment and survival. That is not an ambitious demand. It is the minimum obligation of a welfare-oriented government.
To empower panchayats, gram yojana gets nod
When a Language Falls Silent, a World Disappears
A language is never merely a means of communication. It is a record of memory, a vessel of emotion and a distinct way of making sense of the world. When a language disappears, humanity does not simply lose words; it loses stories, knowledge systems, humour, songs, proverbs and ways of seeing life that may never be recovered. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinhas warning that the disappearance of a language amounts to the loss of a distinctive worldview therefore deserves serious reflection. In Kashmir, this concern has a particular urgency. The regions cultural identity has been shaped by linguistic diversity, oral traditions, folk practices, religious heritage, literature and the lived experiences of its people. These cannot be reduced to maps, administrative boundaries or official statistics. A society is understood through the memories it preserves and the languages through which those memories are transmitted from one generation to another. The proposed focus on cultural heritage, language preservation, manuscript conservation, digital archiving and linguistic mapping is welcome. But preservation cannot remain confined to seminars, reports or institutional announcements. It must become a sustained public effort involving schools, universities, families, writers, artists and local communities. Languages survive when they are spoken at home, taught to children, used in education, supported in publishing and allowed to flourish in public life. Digital technology can help in this effort. Manuscripts can be archived, oral histories recorded, and endangered vocabulary documented before it fades away. Linguistic mapping can reveal the richness of dialects and regional expressions that are often ignored by standardised systems. Yet technology must remain a tool, not a substitute for living cultural practice. A language stored in a database but absent from daily conversation is preserved only in a limited and fragile sense. The LGs remarks on artificial intelligence and emotional intelligence are equally significant. Technological progress without ethical awareness can become detached from human needs. The challenge before students is not merely to master new tools but to retain independent thought, imagination and sensitivity. Technology should widen human possibilities, not diminish the human qualities that give knowledge meaning. The most valuable aspect of the proposed centre is its interdisciplinary vision. Climate change, migration and tourism cannot be addressed through a single discipline. They affect ecology, economy, culture, psychology and social life simultaneously. Kashmir needs institutions that bring scholars, technologists, artisans and communities into meaningful dialogue. Such a centre can become more than a research facility. It can serve as a living archive of Kashmirs plural inheritance and a bridge between tradition and innovation. But its success will depend on sustained funding, professional scholarship, community participation and measurable outcomes. The preservation of language is ultimately a question of dignity. Every language carries the memory of a people. To protect it is to protect the many ways in which humanity understands itself.
ISI Project Associate I Recruitment 2026
Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Biological Sciences Division, has invited online applications for the post of Project Associate-I. Applications can be submitted at isical.ac.in till 20 November 2026.
Political dynasties rarely recognise the warning signs of decline. When power remains within a family for generations, political inheritance can begin to look like an entitlement and personal loyalty can become more important than organisational strength. But the real test of leadership is not how long a family occupies the centre of power; it is whether it stands with its people when the political storm arrives. The Abdullah family, which has dominated the National Conference for decades, now faces renewed questions about its leadership, its regional priorities and its ability to hold the party together. Omar Abdullahs cabinet reshuffle on October 27 has intensified the debate. Four new ministers have been inducted, all from the Kashmir Valley, while Independent MLA Satish Sharma has been dropped, leaving the Jammu plains without a minister in the Council of Ministers. The reshuffle has also provoked discontent among senior NC leaders The question is whether this controversy is an isolated disagreement over portfolios or another indication of a deeper problem in the partys political culture. More importantly, it revives a longstanding criticism of dynastic politics: when power is threatened, do leaders share the risks with their workers, or are ordinary party supporters left to face the consequences? A political legacy that cannot escape history The National Conference was founded in 1932 as the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference. In 1939, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah renamed it the National Conference and formally opened its membership to people of other communities. That transition was presented as a broader political vision. Yet critics continue to question whether the party has consistently translated its secular identity into equitable representation and respect for the aspirations of Jammus diverse regions. The latest cabinet reshuffle has revived precisely this debate. The absence of representation for the Jammu plains has reinforced the perception that the political priorities of the Valley receive greater consideration in the governments decisions. The issue is not whether Kashmir deserves representation. It unquestionably does. The issue is whether a government responsible for the whole Union Territory can justify a cabinet in which Jammus plains have no direct ministerial representation. For the BJP, the reshuffle reflects a wider contradiction between the NCs claims of inclusive politics and the political consequences of its decisions. The partys defenders may point to electoral arithmetic and administrative experience, but these explanations do not remove the need to address regional concerns. A historic name cannot serve as a permanent certificate of inclusiveness. Every generation must earn public confidence through its conduct. 1953: Sheikh Abdullahs fall from power In August 1953, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah was dismissed as Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and arrested. Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad succeeded him. This was a defining rupture in the regions political history. The episode arose from deep political disagreements over the future of Jammu and Kashmir and its relationship with India. It would be inaccurate to reduce such a complex crisis to a simple story of abandonment. Nevertheless, the episode demonstrated how rapidly political circumstances could transform the fortunes of a powerful leader and the organisation associated with him. The party and its supporters had to navigate a new political order after the removal of the leader around whom the movement had been built. The enduring lesson is that a political organisation cannot depend entirely on the authority of one individual. It must have institutions capable of surviving leadership crises without losing its purpose or abandoning its grassroots. 1984: A revolt within the familys political circle The events of 1984 exposed another vulnerability. Farooq Abdullahs government was brought down after Ghulam Mohammad Shah, his brother-in-law, led a breakaway group of legislators. Shah became Chief Minister following Farooq Abdullahs dismissal. His government was itself dismissed The episode demonstrated that political alliances and family relationships could not guarantee organisational unity. A party that had won a decisive electoral mandate found itself divided by internal rivalry. For grassroots workers, such conflicts create a particularly difficult situation. They campaign for the party, defend its leadership and persuade voters to support its candidates. Yet when senior leaders fall out, workers must confront confused supporters, hostile opponents and uncertainty about the organisations future. The historical record does not prove that the Abdullah family abandoned every worker during these episodes. But the repeated upheavals raise an important question about whether the party has built an organisation strong enough to protect its cadre from the consequences of leadership rivalries. 1990: When democratic politics collapsed The dismissal of Farooq Abdullahs government in 1990 and the imposition of central rule occurred amid escalating militancy and a profound security crisis. The period saw widespread violence, the breakdown of normal political activity and the mass displacement of Kashmiri pandits. This was a tragedy of immense proportions, and responsibility must be examined in its full historical context, including Pakistan-backed militancy, the actions of armed groups and the failures of political and security institutions. Yet the period also raises an unavoidable question about political accountability. When democratic politics becomes impossible, ordinary citizens and political workers bear consequences that leaders cannot measure merely through the loss of office. The criticism directed at political leadership during such crises concerns its ability to preserve public confidence, protect citizens and maintain a credible connection with the people. Political legacies must be judged not only by the power their leaders exercised, but also by how institutions and society fared during their most difficult years. The present crisis: Workers and regions demand answers The current cabinet controversy has brought the National Conferences internal contradictions into sharp focus. Senior leader Mubarak Gul publicly expressed disappointment after being excluded from the cabinet, while supporters protested at the party headquarters. Abdul Majid Larmi also voiced hurt over his exclusion. Farooq Abdullah subsequently appointed Gul as the partys general secretary. These developments show that even within the ruling party, ministerial appointments can create resentment among experienced leaders. Omar Abdullah must now manage two challenges simultaneously: dissatisfaction among party leaders and the growing political debate over regional representation. Neither can be resolved simply by invoking the familys legacy or the partys electoral success. The people of Jammu are entitled to ask why the Jammu plains have lost their place in the cabinet. NC workers are entitled to ask whether years of service will be recognised through meaningful organisational participation. And the public is entitled to demand that political accommodation never takes precedence over accountable governance. The central question is whether the party leadership sees workers as partners in a political mission or merely as a support base expected to remain loyal regardless of the decisions taken at the top. Is this the last innings? Calling this the last innings of the Abdullahs does not mean that their departure from politics is inevitable. The family retains political recognition, and the National Conference continues to have an established presence. Its future will depend on public confidence, governance, organisational unity and its ability to respond to a changing political environment. But the assumption that a familys historical importance guarantees permanent political dominance is no longer sufficient. Regional discontent, competing political forces and internal disagreements have made the NCs position a subject of renewed scrutiny. The BJPs challenge to the National Conference is straightforward: prove through action that secularism means equal respect, that representation extends beyond the Valley, and that leadership entails responsibility when circumstances become difficult. The Abdullah family must also demonstrate that the National Conference is an institution capable of functioning beyond the fortunes of a single household. The real test of a political dynasty is not how many times its leaders occupy office, but whether the workers who sustain it are remembered when power slips away. The cabinet reshuffle may prove manageable, or it may expose deeper organisational divisions. That remains to be seen. What is clear is that the National Conference cannot rely indefinitely on history, inherited authority or appeals to loyalty. It must answer the concerns of its regions, its workers and the people it governs. Whether this is the last innings of the Abdullahs traditional political dominance will be decided by events. But the warning is unmistakable: a legacy may open the door to power; only accountability, representation and responsible leadership can sustain public trust. (The Author is a spokesperson for the J&K BJP)
Ted Cruz Claims Americans Could Die If Abdul El-Sayed Joins Senate Intelligence Committee
Republican Senator Ted Cruz has issued a stark warning about Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, claiming American lives could be endangered if El-Sayed wins the election and is appointed to the Senate Intelligence Committee. Campaigning for Republican candidate Mike Rogers, Cruz argued that such an appointment could give El-Sayed access to highly classified information. He linked his warning to allegations of Muslim Brotherhood connections, which El-Sayed has denied. Cruz's remarks have intensified the national security controversy surrounding Michigan's closely watched Senate race.
I Saw A New Era: Why Rajesh Dogra Left Finance For Tata Group And Bet On Indias Digital Shift
What prompted Rajesh Dogra to move from financial services to the Tata Group? Air India's Chief Customer Experience Officer recalls how India's National e-Governance Plan opened up new opportunities to transform public services through technology. Drawing on his experience in financial services and government projects, Dogra explains why he saw the country's digitisation push as the beginning of a new era and decided to take on a fresh challenge at TCS. He also reflects on his transition into the Tata ecosystem and why its modern systems, processes and decision-making culture felt familiar.
The Uncomfortable Economics of Kashmiri Weddings
Weddings, once conceived as celebrations, have now devolved into spectacles. Guy Debord, in his seminal work, The Society of the Spectacle, posits that in the modern world, everything that we once lived directly has transposed into an image. The shift from expression through directly lived experiences to expression through the exchange and consumption of images has endangered a profound and pervasive erosion of both the human existence and the sanctity of marriage. Life, in general, and weddings, in particular, are no longer lived, but performed to be watched. Debord traces the development of a modern society in which authentic social life has been replaced with its representation. He argues that the history of human social life has seen a decline from being into having, and from having into merely appearing. A socio-economic equation idiosyncratic to most Kashmiri weddings is: an un/der-employed starry-eyed woman trying to live up to an image of an Instagram bride and a father/brother who is(nt) ready to squander all his savings for a curated performance. Out of Debords 221 theses, many fit perfectly in helping us comprehend the nuanced economics of Kashmiri weddings. Thesis 34, particularly, states, The spectacle is capital accumulated to the point that it becomes an image. The unemployment rate in Jammu & Kashmir among young women(aged 15-29) ranges between 46% to 53%. On the other hand, an average middle-class Kashmiri wedding minimally costs 20-25 lakh rupees. An unemployed woman who has no independent economic capital has only a spectacle in the form of symbolic capital. This is capital that could have been a house down payment, a business enterprise, a Masters degree, a rewarding future. But the capital must annihilate itself to become an image & so it does. Thesis 42 deserves mention: The spectacle corresponds to the historical moment at which the commodity has succeeded in totally colonising social life. A few decades back, a Kashmiri wedding was all about a family gathering, happy moments & a sumptuous meal. Now the list of what is visibilised & commodified includes: our emotions(one must pat to show love), our kinship(one must pay to look honourable), our bodies( one must pay to look unrealistically beautiful), our religion(one must pay for a Nikah shoot with the holy Quran as a prop). Every ritual is commodified into a service one can buy & pay for. The question is, where to place the blame? On the woman, who is an under-achiever in education and employment(by choice or by chance) and seeks recognition not by being a woman of substance but by being a maximalist ornate bride. For her, the wedding becomes the only rationally chosen social spectacle where she is allowed to be central, visible, and commanding. For her the spectacle gives the appearance of an achievement without the labor of achievement. On the patriarchal system which limits her access to public life, to meaningful employment, to spaces where she is seen and valued for her work. When there is no office to go to, no business to build, no career ladder to climb, life can feel purposeless. She plans a spectacle to compensate for an empty calendar. On the mother who makes her son spend extravagantly by making him believe that love for her sister equals expenditure, that honor of the family equals display and to say no would make him less of a brother and far less of an honourable man. On the consumer economy where conspicuous consumption becomes production. A womans self-worth doesnt come from earning money but by spending money not for use, but to signal status. On the father/brother who has fallen prey to conspicuous consumption by proxy in which he displays his wealth, economic privileges, social status not through his own direct consumption but by outfitting and provisioning his daughter/sister in luxury goods. Tragically, wherever the blame falls, it is the father/brother's wallet that becomes the brides only access to capital in a patriarchal consumer economy. When such a woman is denied self-worth, she attempts to find it in one big day because the other 364 days offer her little worth in her own eyes & in the eyes of the world. Does this mean that we should have no celebrations at our weddings? No, we don't need less celebrations. What we need is more life outside the celebration. What we need for our women is meaningful, rewarding, fulfilling jobs, start-ups, research projects, and incomes of their own so that they wouldnt make the men in the family silently carry a burden which isnt entirely theirs to bear. If their daily lives are filled with meaning, they wouldnt need to make one day unnaturally heavy with meaning. We need to give our women something more spectacular than a wedding. And if we dont, the spectacle will go on!
She has sought anticipatory bail in a case booked against her pursuant to a speech at DMK womens wing meet held in Chennai on October 7, 2026
Pakistan minister invites Punjab CM Mann
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann had said that he wished to accept the invitation from the organisers of the Lahore International Punjabi Conference in Lahore from November 27 to 29 and would want to visit Sikh shrines in Pakistan
Principle Over Power: Congress, Complete Statehood and the Constitutional Rights of Jammu & Kashmir
Power, Conscience and the Gandhian Understanding of Public Service In parliamentary democracy, ministerial office represents executive authority and responsibility for governance. However, political responsibility extends beyond the exercise of administrative power. It also encompasses the obligation to uphold constitutional principles, protect democratic institutions and safeguard the rights of citizens. Mahatma Gandhis philosophy of public service offers an important perspective on this distinction. For Gandhi, political authority was never an end in itself. Public office carried a moral obligation to serve the people, particularly those whose rights, dignity and opportunities required protection. This understanding provides a philosophical framework for examining the Indian National Congresss decision not to participate in the Council of Ministers of the National Conference-led government in Jammu and Kashmir until the restoration of full statehood. Congresss Position: Support for Representative Government, Not Participation in the Cabinet The Congress leaderships position on participation in the Jammu and Kashmir government has remained consistent since the formation of the elected government in October 2024. Under the leadership of Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Shri Rahul Gandhi, and Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee President Shri Tariq Hameed Karra, the party has maintained that the restoration of full statehood is a fundamental constitutional and political priority. Congress has therefore distinguished between supporting an elected government and accepting ministerial responsibilities within the existing Union Territory framework. Its decision to remain outside the Cabinet does not amount to withdrawal from the political alliance, rejection of the electoral mandate or abandonment of its responsibility towards the people. Rather, it reflects the partys declared position that participation in ministerial office should not take precedence over its demand for the restoration of the constitutional status and rights of Jammu and Kashmir. This distinction is particularly important in the context of the recent Cabinet expansion. The absence of Congress ministers should not be interpreted as the party having been excluded from government. The party has consciously maintained its decision not to accept ministerial portfolios under the prevailing constitutional arrangement. At the same time, continued support for the elected government does not imply unconditional endorsement of every administrative decision. Congress retains its political responsibility to raise public grievances, seek accountability and advocate fulfilment of commitments made to the electorate. Complete Statehood: Restoring Constitutional Equality The reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019 fundamentally altered its constitutional and administrative status. The former state was reorganised into Union Territories, resulting in a different distribution of legislative and executive authority. Although the restoration of an elected Legislative Assembly in 2024 represented an important return to representative government, the existing Union Territory framework does not confer the same constitutional position and institutional authority ordinarily enjoyed by a full-fledged state. The Congress demand for complete statehood must therefore be understood as a demand for the restoration of meaningful democratic authority, legislative competence and institutional accountability. The principle is straightforward: the people of Jammu and Kashmir should enjoy the constitutional dignity, democratic representation and powers of self-government available to citizens living in other states of the Indian Union. This is not a demand for separation from the national constitutional framework. It is a demand for equal and effective participation within that framework. A fully empowered elected government, functioning within the constitutional distribution of powers applicable to states, is essential for ensuring that public representatives can meaningfully discharge their responsibilities towards the electorate. Beyond Statehood: Constitutional Safeguards for Land, Employment and Resources The Congress leadership has also emphasised that restoration of statehood must be accompanied by appropriate safeguards for the legitimate interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. These concerns relate particularly to land ownership, employment opportunities, natural resources and the preservation of the regions distinctive social and cultural identity. The demand for such safeguards should be examined within the broader Indian constitutional tradition, which recognises that different states and regions may require particular legal or constitutional protections arising from their historical, geographical, social and economic circumstances. Constitutional provisions and special protective arrangements already exist for several regions of India. Their existence demonstrates that regional safeguards and national unity are not inherently contradictory. For Jammu and Kashmir, the objective should be to secure an appropriate constitutional and legislative framework that protects legitimate local interests while remaining consistent with fundamental rights, national citizenship and the constitutional structure of the Republic. It is equally important to recognise that restoration of statehood and restoration of specific safeguards are legally distinct questions. Statehood alone would not automatically reinstate every protection that previously existed. The nature, scope and legal mechanism of such safeguards would require separate constitutional and legislative consideration. This is why the Congress leaderships broader emphasis on complete statehood together with constitutional guarantees for land, jobs and resources deserves to be understood as a comprehensive constitutional demand rather than merely an administrative proposal. Equal Citizenship and Regional Protection Are Complementary Principles The people of Jammu and Kashmir are entitled to the same constitutional dignity and democratic rights as their fellow citizens across India. At the same time, equality within a federal democracy does not necessarily require identical administrative arrangements in every region. Indias constitutional framework accommodates regional diversity while preserving the unity and integrity of the nation. The protection of legitimate regional interests can therefore coexist with the principles of equal citizenship, constitutional supremacy and national integration. The Congress position seeks to place Jammu and Kashmirs aspirations within this established constitutional understanding. The objective is neither preferential treatment at the expense of other citizens nor the creation of an arrangement outside the Indian constitutional order. It is the restoration of full democratic statehood, accompanied by legally sustainable safeguards appropriate to the regions circumstances. Political Responsibility Beyond Ministerial Office A political partys responsibility to the public cannot be measured exclusively by the number of ministerial portfolios it holds. Participation in government provides opportunities to influence administrative decisions directly. Equally, remaining outside the executive may allow a party to maintain a distinct political position on unresolved constitutional questions while continuing to support representative institutions. The Congress leadership has chosen the latter course in Jammu and Kashmir. However, the credibility of this position ultimately depends upon sustained political engagement, constructive legislative participation, responsiveness to public grievances and continued pursuit of the commitments articulated by the party. The restoration of statehood is closely connected with practical questions affecting ordinary citizens, including employment, public services, infrastructure, economic development and accountable administration. Consequently, the constitutional demand cannot remain detached from everyday governance. It must be accompanied by meaningful efforts to address the concerns of youth, farmers, workers, traders, women and other sections of society. A Consistent Position in a Changing Political Environment The Congress decision not to accept Cabinet positions has been reiterated despite political developments and opportunities for ministerial participation. JKPCC President Shri Tariq Hameed Karra has consistently maintained that the party will not compromise its position on statehood and constitutional rights merely to obtain executive office. The party has also continued to support the stability of the elected government while asserting its right to question administrative decisions and raise matters affecting public welfare. This approach reflects a distinction between alliance responsibility, ministerial participation and constitutional advocacy. The immediate responsibility of an elected administration is to govern effectively within the authority available to it. The wider constitutional responsibility of political parties, including Congress, is to pursue the restoration of powers and protections that they believe are necessary for meaningful self-government. These responsibilities need not be mutually exclusive. Conclusion: Statehood as a Question of Constitutional Dignity The debate over Congresss participation in the Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet should not be reduced to questions of political accommodation or distribution of ministerial portfolios. At its centre lies a larger constitutional question: whether the people of Jammu and Kashmir should continue under the existing Union Territory arrangement or regain the status, powers and institutional autonomy associated with full statehood. The Congress leadership has made its position clear. It supports representative government while declining ministerial participation until its demand for the restoration of statehood is addressed. Its wider demand encompasses appropriate constitutional safeguards for land, employment and natural resources, consistent with the rights and protections available under the Indian constitutional framework. The enduring significance of this position will be determined not simply by the refusal of ministerial office, but by the consistency, constitutional clarity and effectiveness with which the party pursues these objectives. The fundamental issue is not who occupies a ministerial chair, but whether the democratic institutions of Jammu and Kashmir possess the constitutional authority necessary to serve their people. In that distinction lies the meaning of Principle Over Power. (The author is pursuing an M.Tech in Power Systems and is a member of the National Students Union of India (NSUI). fahadpeer07@gmail.com )
Womens College Sgr gets new administrative block
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 28: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health & Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo on wednesday inaugurated the newly constructed Administrative Block at Government Womens College, M.A. Road here, marking a significant step towards strengthening the institutional infrastructure of the prestigious womens educational institution. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister underscored the importance of strengthening educational infrastructure alongside academic excellence, stating that a well-equipped institutional environment is essential for the effective delivery of education and the overall development of students. Governments endeavour is to ensure that educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir have the necessary infrastructure and facilities to provide quality education in a conducive and student-friendly environment. Strengthening the infrastructure of colleges is not merely about creating physical assets; it is about improving the overall academic ecosystem and enabling our institutions to function more effectively, the Minister said. The Minister observed that womens education holds a pivotal place in the governments vision of an inclusive and progressive society, emphasising that educational institutions must provide young women with opportunities to excel academically, develop their potential and prepare themselves for greater responsibilities in society. Empowering women through quality education remains one of our foremost priorities. Our colleges must serve as centres of learning, confidence-building and excellence, where young women are equipped with the knowledge, skills and opportunities required to shape their future and contribute meaningfully to society, she remarked. The Minister further stressed the need for educational institutions to focus on continuous improvement in infrastructure, administrative efficiency and the quality of academic services. She called for sustained efforts to ensure that the facilities created in educational institutions are utilised effectively and contribute to a better experience for students as well as staff. Reiterating the governments commitment to strengthening the higher education sector, the Minister highlighted that concerted efforts are being made to improve institutional facilities and create an enabling environment that supports academic growth, innovation and the holistic development of students. The Minister expressed hope that the newly inaugurated facility would contribute to more efficient administrative operations and further strengthen the academic and institutional environment at this prestigious institution. Principal, Government College for Women, Dr. Yasmeen Farooq; Secretary in Higher Education, Shafqat Iqbal; Nodal Principal (Kashmir division colleges), Dr. Seema Naz; other senior officers of Higher Education department and faculty members of the college were also present on the occasion.
Cabinet reshuffle triggers political row: BJP accuses Omar of targeting Hindus; Dy CM hits back
The BJP has accused Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of targeting Hindus and neglecting the Jammu region in the latest Cabinet reshuffle, alleging inadequate regional and religious representation.
J&K apple industry needs a technology push: Dar
Srinagar, Oct28: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, on wednesday called for a comprehensive transformation of Jammu and Kashmirs apple industry through technological innovations, precision horticulture, smart farming and improved market connectivity to enhance growers income and strengthen the regions position in domestic and international markets. The Minister was speaking at the 6th Edition of the CII J&K Apple Conclave 2026, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), J&K, at Radisson Collection, Srinagar. The conclave, themed From Orchard to Global Market, witnessed detailed deliberations on strategies for modernising the apple sector and unlocking its potential in an increasingly competitive global marketplace. Emphasising the need to move towards technology-driven horticulture, Javid Dar highlighted the importance of adopting modern orchard management practices, precision farming techniques and scientific interventions to improve the productivity, ensure consistent quality and make apple cultivation more sustainable and economically rewarding. He stressed that strengthening Jammu and Kashmirs apple economy requires a coordinated approach encompassing orchard modernisation, scientific cultivation, efficient post-harvest management, value addition and robust marketing infrastructure. He called for greater collaboration among the government departments, industry representatives, agricultural scientists and growers to translate emerging opportunities into tangible benefits for the farming community. The Minister said that the transition from traditional cultivation practices to modern, market-oriented horticulture is essential to meet the evolving consumer expectations and international quality standards. He emphasised that improved grading, packaging, storage and supply-chain management can play a crucial role in reducing post-harvest losses, preserving produce quality and enabling growers to secure better market returns. Javid Dar underscored the need to promote innovation, sustainability and technology adoption across the apple value chain. He said that close coordination among the government, industry and research institutions would be instrumental in addressing existing challenges, improving competitiveness and opening new avenues for market expansion. The Minister appreciated CII J&K for providing a constructive platform for dialogue and partnership among stakeholders. He said that such initiatives can facilitate knowledge exchange, encourage investment and help identify practical solutions for the sustainable growth of Jammu and Kashmirs apple industry. Vice Chancellor, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Professor Nazir Ahmad Ganai, attended the conclave as the Guest of Honour. Senior officers from Agriculture Horticulture department and representatives from CII were also present on the occasion.
Self-adjusting drone controls could make for smoother formation flying
A new method for controlling groups of drones, technically known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), could make formation flying smoother and reduce energy consumption and mechanical wear, according to research in the International Journal of Systems, Control and Communications. The work combines fuzzy logic processing with a self-adjusting control system, known as a self-coupling proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller.
Social media is flooded with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comic style of roasting Congress as they did not win a single seat in the MLC elections 2026. He roasted the opposition who called EVM rigged and said that the MLC
Phniti 330ml 47KHz Ultrasonic Dental, Glasses & Jewelry Cleaner $9.99
Phniti 330ml 47KHz Ultrasonic Dental, Glasses & Jewelry Cleaner $9.99
PTQCC boosts testing capacity for Kashmir handicrafts
Srinagar, Oct 28: The Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) at the Craft Development Institute (CDI), Srinagar, has significantly expanded its testing capacity for Geographical Indication (GI) products, including Kashmir Pashmina, Kani and Sozni-embroidered shawls, with the daily testing rate rising from 40-45 in 2024-25 to around 170 in the current financial year. According to a spokesman of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, PTQCC conducted 13,369 tests in 2024-25, which increased to 22,351 in 2025-26. The centre has already conducted approximately 21,000 tests in the current financial year, with the annual tally projected to reach around 42,000 by March 31, 2027. The increase has been attributed to strengthened laboratory infrastructure, improved testing facilities and growing demand for GI certification and QR coding of authentic handicraft products. The Pashmina laboratory has been equipped with advanced instruments, including a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and two high-resolution digital microscopes. The department is also procuring an additional OFDA 2000 fibre analyser and another digital microscope under the CAPEX budget for 2026-27 to improve testing efficiency and accuracy. The department is also developing an online appointment and token management system to bring greater transparency to GI testing, certification and QR coding. The system, developed by the department's Resource Cell, will initially be launched on a pilot basis and will cover its testing laboratories, including the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT) and the Quality Control Division (QCD). To meet the growing demand, the Directorate is augmenting its technical workforce and sending staff to the Wool Research Association in Thane, Maharashtra, for specialised training in operating the testing equipment. The department is also giving preferential treatment to GI-authorised users submitting hand-spun and hand-woven Pashmina products with Sozni embroidery. The enhanced testing capacity is expected to strengthen the authentication of Kashmir's traditional handicrafts, safeguard the interests of artisans and weavers, and improve consumer confidence in genuine GI-tagged products. The department said faster and more reliable certification would also benefit exporters and manufacturers catering to premium domestic and international markets, where authenticity is a key factor in determining the value of Kashmir's renowned handicrafts.
Hrithik Roshan penned a heartfelt note for his ex-wife Sussanne Khan, leaving fans surprised by their cordial bond post-divorce. Netizens questioned their relationship as the former couple continues to share a healthy equation despite moving on with their respective partners, Saba Azad and Arslan Goni.
Microsoft stock jumps 4% as cloud growth drives earnings and revenue beat
Microsoft reported better-than-expected results driven by 48% growth in Azure revenue. Microsoft stock jumps 4% as cloud growth drives earnings and revenue beat
