Jammu & kashmir

Jammu Kashmir Announces 15-Member Squad For U-23 Women

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has announced a 15-member squad for the U-23 Womens T20 Tournament 2026-27, scheduled to be held in Haryana from November 14 to 21. According to an official JKCA order dated November 9, Rudrakshi Chib has been appointed captain of the team, while Mehak Rukwal will serve as []

NCB opens office in Srinagar

Srinagar, Nov 10:The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has operationalised its office in the Peer Bagh area of Srinagar and begun focused operations to target those involved in the supply of narcotics. The move forms part of broader central and J&K government efforts to intensify enforcement against drug trafficking in Jammu and Kashmir. Senior NCB official Abhishek Sharma told Greater Kashmir that the office has been opened with a clear objective. We have opened office here and only motive is Drug Free Kashmir, he said. We have counselled some people and stopped them from this menace. According to officials, NCB teams are working in close coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police and other agencies. They have dealt with eight cases so far. The agency is also facilitating six-month rehabilitation programmes for addicts who seek help. Sharma said those who want to return to a normal life can approach the office, with their identities kept confidential. We will keep their identity confidential and are sending them for six months rehabilitation programmes outside, he said. The bureau is simultaneously running awareness programmes in schools and universities and contributing to the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan (Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan). The NCB Srinagar zonal unit has been established as part of the Union governments strategy to strengthen narcotics enforcement in J&K. The office has since conducted intelligence-led operations, including seizures of charas in areas such as Anantnag and the Baramulla-Pulwama belt, and has worked with local police to dismantle supply modules. These efforts align with a sustained crackdown across Jammu and Kashmir. Under the 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan launched by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in April 2026, J&K Police registered thousands of NDPS cases and made large numbers of arrests. In the Kashmir Zone alone, between January and October 2026, police registered 1651 NDPS cases, arrested 1941 persons, seized about 1711 kg of contraband, and attached properties worth approximately Rs 154 crore linked to the drug trade. J&K-wide figures under the campaign cited by senior officers included over 3200 cases and more than 4000 arrests, with 288 properties valued at around Rs 138 crore attached. Official data has also shown a sharp decline in overall narcotics seizures in J&K in recent years, particularly of opium-based drugs, even as treatment-seeking for addiction has risen significantly reflecting both intensified enforcement and growing recognition of the problem. Addiction treatment numbers at supported centres climbed from roughly 5300 in 2021-22 to over 46,000 in 2025-26. Officials emphasise a three-pronged approach of disrupting supply chains, expanding public awareness, and supporting rehabilitation. NCB has urged the public to report information confidentially via the MANAS helpline and to support the drive for a drug-free Kashmir.

El Nio threatens to dull Kashmirs winter

Record-strength Pacific warming raises snowfall, temp concerns Experts say Western Disturbances could still change seasonal picture Kashmir gradually becoming part of global weather change: Dir MeT Sgr Srinagar, Nov 10: Kashmir's winter is facing another climate test, with the strengthening El Nio phenomenon raising questions over the Valley's snowfall prospects, winter temperatures and the natural water reserves that sustain its rivers, streams and springs. The concern goes beyond whether the Valley will witness a white winter. For a region whose water security, agriculture, horticulture and hydropower depend heavily on mountain snow, a warmer winter or prolonged gaps between snowfall spells could have consequences extending well into the summer. The latest global climate assessment indicates that El Nio conditions are established in the equatorial Pacific and are expected to strengthen, potentially influencing global weather patterns through the coming winter. The Japan Meteorological Agency's November 10 assessment has reported an extraordinary development sea surface temperatures in the Nino-3 region were 4.4 degrees Celsius above normal in October, exceeding the previous record of 4 degrees set in September. The agency says the ongoing El Nio has reached its strongest intensity since records began in 1949. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), meanwhile, says there is more than an 83 per cent probability of a strong-to-very-strong El Nio persisting through January-March 2027. For Kashmir, the crucial question is how this global climate phenomenon interacts with Western Disturbances, the weather systems responsible for most of the Valley's winter rain and snowfall. Director, Meteorological Department, Srinagar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, told Rising Kashmir that Jammu and Kashmir could experience a relatively mild and drier-than-normal winter under El Nio's influence, although significant snowfall spells cannot be ruled out. Winter will definitely come. Sometimes winters are severe and sometimes mild. What we have been witnessing over the last few years is a relatively mild winter, Ahmad said. One thing is clear: Kashmir, once known for heavy snowfall and wet spells, is fast becoming part of the global warming system and this season, we may again witness a snow-deficient winter. He cautioned against making definitive long-range predictions, pointing out that one or two strong Western Disturbances accompanied by adequate moisture could significantly change the seasonal precipitation scenario. One or two active spells of Western Disturbances might reverse everything as far as precipitation is concerned, he said. But that doesnt mean we are not part of the larger weather system of the globe which is under the influence of global warming. Director Meteorological Centre Ladakh Sonam Lotus also cautioned against drawing conclusions solely from El Nio, saying global models indicated the possibility of a mild winter, but the region's complex atmospheric conditions made seasonal forecasting difficult. According to the global models, it seems that it will be a mild winter. But still, we cannot conclude it at this stage, Lotus said. But yes, we are becoming part of the global weather system and J&K and Ladakh are under the impact of global warming. He said the frequency and intensity of Western Disturbances, jet-stream configuration and other atmospheric circulation patterns would determine the actual winter outcome across J&K and Ladakh. Independent weatherman Faizan Arif said seasonal predictions required continuous examination of multiple international forecasting models rather than relying on a single climate indicator. It is indeed premature to draw conclusions on whether Kashmir would witness a dry or mild winter. Global weather change is a major reality, and one cant rule out Kashmir not being a part, Arif said. The concerns are particularly significant because Kashmir is entering another winter after years of inadequate precipitation. A March 2026 report documented seven consecutive winters of below-normal precipitation in Jammu and Kashmir. The winter of 2025-26 was particularly deficient, with the Union Territory receiving 100.6 mm of precipitation against a normal of 284.9 mm between December and February, marking a shortfall of 65 per cent. February was exceptionally dry, recording just 14.2 mm against a normal of 130.4 mm, a deficit of nearly 89 per cent. Srinagar received only 5.3 mm during the month. The wider Himalayan picture is equally concerning. An analysis published by the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing in January 2026 documented significantly reduced winter precipitation across the North Western Himalayas during the 2025-26 season. A separate assessment in May reported that snow cover across the Hindu Kush Himalayas was nearly 28 per cent below its long-term average between November 2025 and March 2026. These figures underline the growing vulnerability of the Himalayan snow system, which acts as a natural reservoir, storing winter precipitation and releasing water gradually during the warmer months. For Kashmir, reduced snow accumulation can affect the flow of rivers and streams, groundwater recharge, drinking water supplies, irrigation and hydropower generation. It can also disrupt horticulture, as fruit trees depend on adequate winter chilling to maintain their natural dormancy and flowering cycles. The impact is not limited to the summer water crisis. Prolonged dry spells and warmer conditions can also increase forest-fire vulnerability and alter the ecological balance of mountain habitats. Meteorologists, however, caution that El Nio should not be interpreted as a guarantee of a snow-deficient winter in Kashmir. Unlike some other parts of the world, winter precipitation in the western Himalayas is heavily dependent on Western Disturbances originating in the Mediterranean region and moving eastwards. Their frequency, intensity, movement and moisture content determine whether Kashmir receives widespread snowfall, isolated precipitation or prolonged dry spells. A strong disturbance during December or January could bring substantial snowfall even in an El Nio year. Conversely, frequent but weak systems could leave the mountains with inadequate snow accumulation. The immediate weather outlook also illustrates this uncertainty. The Meteorological Department has forecast a significant Western Disturbance around November 12-13, with widespread rain and snowfall expected over higher reaches of J&K. The coming winter will therefore be a crucial test of the region's changing climate. While the Pacific Ocean is registering unprecedented warming, Kashmir's fate will ultimately depend on how global climate signals interact with local atmospheric systems.

Kumar Sanu visits Valley for first time

Srinagar, Nov 10: Renowned Bollywood playback singer Kumar Sanu on Tuesday visited Indian Army and Border Security Force (BSF) camps in Baramulla district, where he interacted with soldiers and expressed gratitude for their service in safeguarding the countrys borders. During his visit to the Armys Fearless Forty-One camp and the adjoining BSF camp, the singer was seen chanting Bharat Mata Ki Jai along with the jawans. He later shared glimpses of his interaction with the soldiers on his official social media handle. Paying tribute to the personnel, Kumar Sanu said that the sacrifices made by soldiers enable people across the country to live peacefully. Hamare soldiers ki wajah se hi hum sab surakshit hain (It is because of our soldiers that we are all safe), he wrote in his social media post, while saluting the personnel for their dedication and commitment. Speaking during his Kashmir visit, the singer said that meeting soldiers and expressing gratitude to them had been a long-standing wish. I always wanted to visit Kashmir since my childhood. I meet the jawans who keep our borders and country safe. Whether it is extreme heat, cold, high-altitude areas or difficult conditions, these soldiers are always there for us, he said. Sanu also appealed to other celebrities to visit Kashmir and acknowledge the contribution of security personnel. I believe every celebrity should visit Kashmir and show respect to these soldiers, he said. Earlier during the day, the singer explored popular destinations including Dal Lake and Lal Chowk in Srinagar, describing Kashmir as heaven on earth and praising its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. I am visiting Kashmir for the first time, and it is truly a heaven on earth, he said. He also encouraged people from across the country to visit Kashmir and experience its scenic beauty. Meanwhile, Sanu expressed his desire to collaborate with Bigg Boss contestant Qazi Touqeer after the latters stint on the reality show. He also extended his best wishes to Touqeer, expressing hope that he would emerge as the winner.

All schools must use JKBOSE books: DSEK

Srinagar, Nov 10: Director School Education Kashmir (DSEK), Naseer Ahmad Wani, has said that all schools across Kashmir must make books prescribed by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) compulsory, asserting that ensuring the use of board-prescribed textbooks remains the departments primary concern amid complaints over the high prices of books. Speaking about the issue of textbook pricing, Wani said the departments main focus was to ensure that schools follow the prescribed JKBOSE curriculum and do not unnecessarily burden parents with expensive books. He said private schools have been issued strict directions to make JKBOSE-prescribed books compulsory. However, he clarified that parents would remain free to purchase additional books for their children if they wished to do so voluntarily. If any parent wants their child to study an additional book with their own consent, we will not stop them, he said, adding that the department would not interfere with such decisions taken independently by parents. Addressing complaints regarding expensive textbooks, the Director said whenever such grievances are brought to the departments notice, the concerned Chief Education Officer (CEO) is directed to verify the matter on the ground. He added that appropriate action is taken wherever complaints are found to be genuine, stressing that the department remains concerned about preventing unnecessary financial pressure on parents. On the development of school infrastructure, the DSEK said significant improvements had been made over the past few years, with new facilities being added to government schools on a continuous basis. Smart boards have already been introduced in several schools, while facilities such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratories, astrophysics labs and Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) have also been established to provide students with better learning opportunities, he said. Wani said the department was working to extend these facilities to more schools in a phased manner, prioritising institutions where the requirements were greatest. The process of strengthening educational infrastructure would continue until such facilities become available across all schools, he said.

CM directs full use of SASCI funds by Mar 2027

Jammu, Nov 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress of works and projects taken up under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), taking stock of financial and physical performance, funds utilisation and plans for the coming financial years. The review covered the physical and financial progress of projects undertaken during FY 2025-26, availability of funds and expenditure targets for FY 2026-27, besides steps taken for effective implementation of projects during FY 2027-28. The Chief Minister reviewed progress across key sectors, including Public Works, Jal Shakti, Youth Services and Sports, Power Development, and Housing & Urban Development. The Chief Minister called for special focus to be given to Disaster Management component, aimed at strengthening disaster mitigation and resilience, besides restoring infrastructure damaged in natural disasters. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary; Ministers Ali Mohammad Sagar, Javed Rana, Javid Dar, Mir Saifullah and Shamim Firdous; Acting Chief Secretary Shailendra Kumar; Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta; Administrative Secretaries, Heads of Departments, senior officers of the Finance Department and other concerned officers. During the meeting, the Chief Minister directed expediting SASCI Part-I works and ensuring full utilisation of approved funds by March 2027 to qualify for the second instalment. He stressed strict adherence to revised deadlines for completion of works under the SASCI 2025-26 Disaster management Component and directed departments to achieve the prescribed financial targets within the stipulated period. Emphasising financial discipline and transparency, the Chief Minister directed strict compliance with Public Financial Management System (PFMS) uploads and timely submission of action plans on BEAMS. He also called for the closure of all Single Nodal Agency (SNA) bank accounts relating to Centrally Sponsored Schemes. In view of the forthcoming visit of the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) to assess damages, departments were asked to finalise comprehensive, sector-wise damage assessment reports to facilitate the assessment process. The Chief Minister further directed all departments to identify and prepare a robust shelf of encumbrance-free projects by March 2027 to facilitate timely tendering and smooth execution during FY 2027-28. He stressed advance planning and close inter-departmental coordination to ensure that the next years SASCI plan is finalised well in time. Reviewing the performance for FY 2025-26, the meeting was informed that against an overall allocation of 5,166.46 crore, comprising untied funds, Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) shares, incentive-based allocations and disaster management components, an expenditure of 3,367.64 crore had been incurred. The meeting was also informed that the State Executive Committee (SEC) has approved 1,416 crore for the Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) across social, infrastructure, productive and cross-cutting sectors, against the NDMA ceiling of 1,534.58 crore. An amount of 424.79 crore has been proposed for immediate release. For FY 2026-27, 811 crore is available under SASCI Part-I Untied Funds, including 541 crore in current-year receipts and 270 crore carried forward as unutilised funds from the previous financial year. Departments have been assigned an expenditure target of 608 crore to qualify for the second instalment. Under Part-II, relating to Centrally Sponsored Schemes, J&K has received 116 crore, constituting 66 per cent of the 176 crore SASCI loan assistance sought for 10 major schemes linked to J&K. The meeting also reviewed the J&K Administrations efforts to leverage the incentive-based funding pool of 2,890.51 crore available for FY 2026-27, linked to governance reforms, improved financial management and sector-specific performance benchmarks. Significant progress was reported under the Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture initiative (AgriStack), with 7.59 lakh Farmer IDs generated, representing 59 per cent of the target. The Digital Crop Survey (DCS) has been completed in 5,714 villages, covering 83.3 per cent of the target and more than 30.27 lakh land parcels. The meeting was informed that the pilot distribution of AgriStack-enabled fertilisers through Farmer IDs commenced on November 5, 2026, in Jammu and Srinagar districts, marking another step towards strengthening technology-driven agricultural service delivery. Progress was also reviewed under other incentive-linked reform areas, including Mining Reforms, with a target of 350 crore; Livestock Sector Reforms (150 crore); Efficiency in Financial Management (400 crore); implementation of Right of Way (RoW) Rules (50 crore); and achievement of Capital Expenditure targets (218 crore). Proposals in these areas have either been submitted or are at various stages of verification. The Ministers also shared their inputs and suggestions during the meeting, highlighting key priorities and issues concerning their respective departments. They emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to accelerate the implementation of SASCI-funded projects and ensure optimal utilisation of available resources. The Chief Minister emphasised that SASCI should be leveraged not merely as a special funding window but also as a strategic instrument for accelerating capital investment, strengthening public infrastructure and improving governance outcomes across Jammu and Kashmir. He underscored the importance of timely execution, efficient financial management and sustained coordination among departments to maximise the benefits available under the scheme.

Twelve Injured, Questions Unanswered

The crash near Sumbal Bala is more than a frightening interruption to a tourist journey. A Tempo Traveller skidded off the road on Tuesday evening, injuring at least 12 people from Gujarat, West Bengal and Punjab. The injured were first taken to PHC Gund; several were later referred to SKIMS Soura for specialised care. Their safe recovery is the immediate concern. The wider concern is why a road used by residents and visitors continues to expose passengers to such risk. The available details do not establish what caused the vehicle to skid. That is precisely why the police investigation must be more than a formal entry in a case register. It should establish the circumstances of the crash and examine the relevant factorsroad condition, visibility, vehicle fitness, speed and driver conductwithout presuming blame before evidence is gathered. Cognisance is only a beginning. The public deserves to know what the inquiry finds and what action follows. The incident also tests the emergency response system. PHC Gund provided initial treatment, and some injured passengers were referred to Srinagar. That pathway may have been necessary, but it raises a practical question: can local facilities consistently stabilise multiple casualties while arranging prompt onward transport? Authorities should review the response, identify any delay or resource gap, and make improvements where evidence points to them. In an accident involving a dozen people, readiness is not an abstract administrative issue; it can shape the first critical hours of care. Tourism is often discussed through arrivals, bookings and revenue. Yet visitors encounter Kashmir through its roads as much as its landscapes. When a vehicle carrying families from several states leaves the road, confidence depends not on reassurance but on visible safeguards: road maintenance, clear warnings at hazardous stretches, responsible driving and timely medical care. Residents deserve those protections every day; visitors should not have to rely on luck. No single crash, on the facts currently available, proves a systemic failure. But it does demand scrutiny, especially on routes carrying tourist traffic through difficult terrain. Authorities should inspect the stretch near Sumbal Bala, publish the findings of the investigation and act on any identified defect or lapse. Transport operators, too, must ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and drivers fit for the journey. Twelve people were injured; the consequences could have been worse. Treating the incident as routine would be the greater failure. A road becomes safer not through condolences or promises, but through transparent investigation and corrective action before another vehicle skids off it.

NCs history of sacrifice far greater than political stature of its critics: Tanvir Sadiq

Says LoP living in fools paradise; even his entire party cannot make a scratch in National Conference SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma, saying that he was living in a fools paradise if he []

KPDCL launches Digital Handbook on Winter Preparedness 2026

Comprehensive winter action plan covering network readiness, swift restoration, grievance redressal, consumer safety SRINAGAR: In view of the prevailing weather advisory and ahead of the winter season, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) on Tuesday launched its Digital Handbook on Winter Preparedness 202627, placing its comprehensive winter action plan for Kashmir Division in the []

Sakina inaugurates Rs 1.88 cr NTPHC at Chukar, inspects PHC Sariwarpora

Visits bereaved family of Sopore medical student, assures govt support BARAMULLA: Emphasizing the importance of accessible and quality healthcare facilities at the grassroots level, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo, on Tuesday inaugurated the New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) at Chukar, Tangmarg constructed at a cost of 1.88 crore. MLA []

Minister Dar exhorts officers to intensify field visits, redress farmers

JAMMU: Minister for Agriculture Production, Finance, Mining and Cooperative Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar on Tuesday convened a review meeting with senior officers of the Horticulture Department to assess the progress of ongoing projects and evaluate implementation of development schemes aimed at strengthening the horticulture sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Director []

Save Nilnag Front seeks Master Plan, dedicated authority for lake

Calls on Speaker Rather; urges coordinated development SRINAGAR: The Save Nilnag Front on Tuesday called on Speaker JKLA Abdul Rahim Rather and expressed appreciation for the developmental initiatives undertaken in the constituency over the years, particularly in strengthening the road connectivity, infrastructure, educational and healthcare facilities, electricity distribution and other essential public amenities. In a []

Chand Harich Zoon: Cluster University Sgr stages musical opera on Habba Khatoon

Prog at Amar Singh College connects students with Kashmiri literary heritage SRINAGAR: The Abdul Ahad Azad Memorial Chair, Cluster University of Srinagar, in collaboration with Adbi Markaz Kamraz, presented the musical opera Chand Harich Zoon in the auditorium of Amar Singh College. The opera dwelled on the life of Habba Khatoon, the most celebrated and []

IUST holds 7th University Library Committee Meeting

Plans Rumi Heritage Corner to celebrate Jalaluddin Rumis legacy AWANTIPORA: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) convened the 7th meeting of its University Library Committee on November 9 to deliberate on measures for strengthening the Rumi Library and enhancing its role in supporting the Universitys academic and research ecosystem. The meeting was chaired []

JKTF felicitates GMS Yarbalpora teacher Mehraj ud Din at pre-retirement function

HAJIN: The Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) Bandipora organised a pre-retirement function to felicitate Mehraj ud Din, a teacher at Government Middle School (GMS) Yarbalpora, in recognition of his 41 years of service in the Education Department. The function was attended by Principal Mehboob Ahmad Khan, Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Hajin Masood Ahmad, Zonal []

The Chaos!

Dear reader, isn't life becoming a little too chaotic? Too many thoughts. Too many expectations. Too many unanswered questions. We wake up with worries and go to bed with regrets. Somewhere between yesterday's disappointments and tomorrow's uncertainties, we have forgotten how to live today. Welcome to the chaos. The strange thing about life is that nobody really knows what they are doing, yet everyone appears to have everything figured out. We pretend to be strong when we are falling apart. We smile when our minds are screaming for help. We say, Everything is fine, when nothing actually is. Perhaps growing up is nothing but learning the art of hiding your chaos behind a perfectly ordinary face. Look around. There is chaos everywhere. In our homes, where conversations have been replaced by arguments. In our workplaces, where competition has overtaken cooperation. In our relationships, where expectations have become heavier than affection. And inside our heads, where a thousand thoughts fight for attention. We are surrounded by people, yet increasingly lonely. Wait a minute. What exactly are we so worried about? The job we haven't secured? The promotion we haven't received? The person who walked away? The society that refuses to accept us? Or the future that hasn't even arrived? We exhaust ourselves fighting battles that exist only in our imagination. We suffer twiceonce in our thoughts and again in reality. Of course, life is not a bed of roses. Rejections hurt. Betrayals change you. Financial struggles test your patience. Losing someone leaves a void that no amount of success can fill. There are days when even getting out of bed feels like an achievement. And there are nights when silence becomes louder than words. Not every battle is visible. But here is the irony. We desperately want a peaceful life, yet sometimes become addicted to the very chaos that destroys our peace. We revisit old conversations, replay past mistakes and imagine imaginary arguments. We keep explaining ourselves to people who have already made up their minds. We seek closure from those who gave us confusion. Tell me, how long will you keep paying for yesterday's mistakes? Society has its own version of chaos. Someone is too poor, someone is too rich. Someone is unmarried, someone is unemployed. Someone has no children; someone has too many responsibilities. If you succeed, people question your methods. If you fail, they question your abilities. If you remain silent, you are arrogant. If you speak, you are troublesome. Strange standards, aren't they? You cannot spend your entire life trying to fit into everyone's definition of normal. And then comes the biggest chaos of allour own expectations. We want everything, and we want it now. A successful career, a happy family, financial security, social recognition and a peaceful mind. Nothing wrong with wanting these things. But somewhere along the way, we forget that life is not a checklist. You cannot control every outcome. You cannot please every person. And you certainly cannot predict every twist. Time has taught me something. Not every problem deserves a reaction. Not every argument deserves an explanation. Not every person deserves access to your peace. Sometimes, walking away is not weakness. Sometimes, silence is not surrender. And sometimes, accepting that things are beyond your control is the greatest form of strength. Be kind to yourself. You are allowed to have bad days. You are allowed to change your mind. You are allowed to start again, even when the world thinks you should have figured it out by now. Don't confuse a difficult chapter with a failed story. Life has a strange way of surprising those who refuse to give up. So, embrace the chaos, but don't become the chaos. Let the world rush, argue, compete and compare. You don't have to participate in every storm. Protect your peace. Choose your battles. Forgive yourself for the things you didn't know yesterday. (The author is a freelance Columnist and writes on various issues. He can be reached at: fidahumairawrite@gmail.com )

Geothermal Energy: A New Chapter in Indias Clean Energy Journey

Puga valley, a place located at 14,000 feet above sea level in southeastern Ladakhs Chanthang is known for its hot springs and underground heat reserves. This place is completely redefining the geothermal story of the country. In July 2026, the ONGC Energy Centre commissioned the country's first two geothermal wells in the Puga valley. For a nation of 1.4 billion people that has long looked to the sun and wind for its renewable ambitions, the heat of the Earth itself is now entering daily conversations. The two wells, each 1,000 metres deep, will support reservoir evaluation. They also pave the way for India's first one-megawatt demonstration geothermal power project, marking the country's entry into geothermal power generation. Though the scale is modest, what it implies is more important. The concept of Geothermal Energy India is moving from resource assessment to field demonstration, and Puga valley is where that shift becomes visible. Geothermal energy is steady, low-carbon and not affected by weather. Unlike solar and wind, it is available throughout the year. This matters for a large, densely populated country that wants to add reliable, home-grown sources to its renewable energy mix. That is why regions like Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh become important. Science states why the Earth's interior is hot because it is driven by the radioactive decay of elements like uranium, thorium and potassium, along with residual heat from the planet's formation. In geologically active regions, faults and fractures let hot material travel closer to the surface, creating reservoirs of hot water and steam trapped within permeable rock. Deep wells bring these resources up. The steam drives a turbine connected to a generator, a process resembling conventional thermal power, except that naturally occurring underground heat replaces fuel combustion. The used water is condensed and reinjected into the reservoir, supporting replenishment and continued production. Importance of Puga What makes Ladakh's milestone critical is the policy framework behind it. In September 2025, the government notified the National Policy on Geothermal Energy. The policy aims to establish geothermal energy as a major renewable pillar enabling systematic exploration and deployment of the country's resources. While prioritising research, drilling, reservoir management and direct-use applications, and supports Ground Source Heat Pumps for heating and cooling. A clear regulatory framework encourages both public and private sector participation. It facilitates repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells, builds toward a national geothermal data repository, and supports pilot projects and Centres of Excellence. Alongside this, MNRE is implementing the Renewable Energy Research and Technology Development Programme through research institutions and industry partners, aiming at indigenous, cost-effective technologies. Internationally, geothermal energy has been identified as a key area of cooperation with Australia and Iceland, and as a focus area in an MoU with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Future The Geological Survey of India has mapped 381 hot springs and identified 10 geothermal provinces, from the Himalayan province to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the West Coast and the South Indian Cratonic regions. India's theoretical geothermal prospect stands at nearly 10.6 GW, and 42 sites have been recognised as promising for power generation and direct heat use. Technology could widen this further. Enhanced Geothermal Systems and Advanced Geothermal Systems will expand exploration opportunities, so suitable projects can arise anywhere geothermal resources exist. Inactive oil and gas wells could be repurposed, subject to technical and operational feasibility, building on existing drilling expertise, well data and infrastructure. Beyond electricity, geothermal heat supports district heating, agriculture, aquaculture, and space heating and cooling. Possibilities include geo-tourism too. For a high-altitude region like Ladakh, such direct uses are worth watching closely. Other projects are already adding experience. Gujarats Gandhinagar has demonstrated electricity generation of 50 to 90 kilowatts from fluid at 70 to 80C. Ankleshwar in Gujarat is evaluating retrofitted oil and gas wells, Tawang in Anuranchal Pradesh is studying five geothermal sites, Hyderabad is developing a geothermal cooling system, and a pilot study is modelling shallow systems with Borehole Heat Exchangers. An honest account must note that commercial-scale power generation is yet to be established. What exists today is a foundation: expanding well fields, demonstration activities and research initiatives strengthening the ecosystem. The world offers proof of concept, with global installed capacity reaching 15.67 GW by the end of 2025, led by Indonesia, the US, the Philippines, Trkiye and New Zealand, together holding around 67%. India, by comparison, is only at the starting line. The government's larger purpose is clear. India is driving towards Net Zero by 2070, and the policy seeks to make geothermal energy a key part of the nation's renewable energy story. The aim is energy security and sustainable growth, through a steady, indigenous pillar of the energy transition. From the cold, thin air of Puga Valley, that aim feels both distant and tangible. The wells are only 1,000 metres deep, and the demonstration plant is only one megawatt. But every large energy system begins with a first well. If policy, research, partnerships and patient field work continue to align, the heat beneath Ladakh may help power the journey to 2070. (COURTESY - PIB SRINAGAR)

Kashmiri Women Making Their Mark in Science, Research and Innovation

Women were traditionally expected to stay within the boundaries of their homes, with few opportunities to pursue careers outside their household responsibilities. However, societal attitudes and expectations have gradually changed. Today, women work in almost every field and prove their abilities through education, hard work, and determination. Science, technology, medicine, and research are among the areas where their contribution are becoming increasingly visible. Every year, 10th November is marked as the World Science Day for Peace and Development. This day stresses the significance of science in our day-to-day life and its importance in developing a good society. It also makes us realise that scientific developments should be available to all, irrespective of their gender or geography. On this occasion, it is important to recognise the contributions of women who are working hard in the scientific field in Jammu & Kashmir. Their stories deserve recognition because they have overcome various hurdles in their lives to create opportunities for themselves. Kashmiri Women Contributing to Scientific Research Kashmir has many talented women working in different areas of science. Their research covers biotechnology, agriculture, genetics, medicine and other important subjects. Some of their work is directly connected with the region's needs and resources. One such name is Dr Hina Fayaz Bhat, an Assistant Professor and Junior Scientist in the Biotechnology Division at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Srinagar. In 2013, she achieved an important milestone by becoming the first woman scientist from the region to receive the Department of Science and Technology's INSPIRE Faculty Award in the biomedical sciences category. Her career highlights the increasing participation of Kashmiri women in scientific research. Biotechnology is an area that needs many years of hard work, dedication, and effort. Her contributions may inspire young girls to pursue higher education and develop their careers in scientific streams of life. Another scientist worth mentioning is Dr Nasheeman Ashraf, who has been working in the genetics of saffron. Saffron is of great importance to the agricultural identity of Kashmir, and any improvements in the cultivation of this crop would benefit the Kashmiri farmers and the economy of the state as well. Her work revolves around saffron genetics and transcriptome, consisting of almost 64,000 genes. She has also worked in the field of saffron cultivation research in various districts of Kashmir. Such research contributes significantly to knowledge about the plant and helps find new ways to improve it. A Young Girl from Baramulla with a Vision for Innovation Scientific ideas do not always come from big laboratories or research institutions. Sometimes, they begin with a simple observation made by a school student. The journey of Shahida Bano from Baramulla is a good example. She came up with an idea for a smart vehicle key. Her project uses a fingerprint sensor to identify the driver's age and licence details, with the aim of preventing underage and unauthorised driving. Her idea earned her the INSPIRE National Award. She also won the Inventor India Challenge while she was still in school. Later, she was selected for the prestigious Japan-Asia Youth Exchange Programme in Science under the SAKURA Exchange Programme. What makes this journey worth noting is the fact that she began contemplating innovation at such a tender age. Road accidents remain an important problem, and the idea is basically her attempt to innovate technology to help make roads safer. While the idea may need more technical work to become practical, this is the sort of thinking encouraged by innovation. The success story of Shahida Bano is actually a way of encouraging other students, particularly female students in rural areas, to consider their ideas seriously. A student does not necessarily have to reach university to start venturing into science. A little idea generated in the classroom can actually lead to many big things. Women and Their Contribution to Medicine and Technology Medicine and healthcare are other important areas where women have made remarkable contributions. Women from Kashmir are also becoming part of this scientific journey. Their participation in biotechnology, microbiology and medical research is helping expand the region's presence in these fields. The work of women researchers in areas such as tuberculosis, genetics, and biomedical sciences is particularly important. These subjects may appear complicated, but their purpose is connected with everyday life. Better scientific understanding can help improve disease detection, treatment research and public health. Technology has also created new opportunities for women. Young girls are now exploring robotics, computer science, digital tools and other emerging areas. With the right guidance and facilities, more students from Kashmir can develop ideas that address problems in their communities. These accomplishments assume additional significance in view of the fact that several women have had to cope with certain challenges during their academic and professional endeavours. Some Challenges: Geographical constraints, limited availability of research facilities, familial duties, and social norms may create some hurdles for women in Kashmir. Scientific research needs laboratory facilities, instruments, funding and mentorship; however, these resources are not available to all. Despite the above-mentioned barriers, women have succeeded in making strides in their careers. Their success story is a reminder of the need for education, encouragement from family and teachers, as well as institutions. Remembering Women Who Inspired the Scientific World While recognising Kashmiri women, we should also remember some of the Indian and international women who opened doors for future generations. The examples of famous female scientists in India include Kamala Sohonie who is known for her achievements in biochemistry, becoming the first Indian woman to obtain a PhD in a scientific field. Anna Mani was a scientist contributing to the fields of meteorology and scientific instruments; Asima Chatterjee was a pioneer in organic chemistry and medicinal plants research. Finally, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw contributed greatly to India's biotechnology sector. Worldwide, Marie Curie was one of the most famous female scientists due to her discovery of radioactivity. Research by Rosalind Franklin contributed to our understanding of DNA, while Grace Hopper made contributions to computer science and programming. In 2020, the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was bestowed upon Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier for their work on CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing. These women came from different backgrounds and worked in different fields, yet their achievements share one thing: they continued their work even when the path was difficult. Encouraging the Next Generation of Kashmiri Girls As the world observes World Science Day, the successes of Kashmiri women should prompt us to think about the future. There are numerous girls enrolled in educational institutions all over the valley who possess the potential to grow up to be doctors, scientists, researchers, engineers and innovators. Hina Fayaz Bhat, Nasheeman Ashraf and Shahida Bano prove the point that Kashmiri women are leaving their mark in the domain of science. The success of these women is also a reminder of the numerous girls whose talent is still not recognised. A girl seated in a classroom today might just end up becoming a scientist tomorrow. Her query could become a reason behind some research, while her idea could give rise to innovation and help solve some of the problems faced by society. So, let us acknowledge the contributions made by Kashmiri women in science and motivate more girls to pursue their passion. Kashmir possesses talent, ideas, and potential, and with proper opportunities for women, this potential could be turned into achievements. (The Author is a Writer and Social commentator who writes on themes related to women's empowerment, rural livelihoods, entrepreneurship, health, and changing social realities in the Kashmir Valley. Feedback: rakshandagul629@gmail.com )

Before We Fill the Card, Let Us Learn to Ask: The Holistic Progress Card in Kashmir

Picture a teacher in a Kashmir classroom, late in the session, with the online Holistic Progress Card open on a screen. A cursor blinks in a field. She knows the child well. She knows he hesitates before speaking but draws beautifully, and that he helps younger children with their shoelaces. The form, however, asks her to choose, select, map and paste. She hesitates, not because she doesn't know the child, but because she isn't sure what the form is asking her to know. That hesitation is the most honest data point we have on the HPC in Kashmir Division, and we should not rush past it. The promise behind the card The HPC, developed by PARAKH, the assessment body within NCERT, was designed to move us away from a single number that claims to summarise a child. It is meant to be a 360-degree record. It is built on competency-based activities and brings together the teacher's observations, the child's self-assessment, the views of peers and the voice of parents. PARAKH describes it as an integrative document capturing progress across several curricular areas. Cards have been developed for the Foundational, Preparatory and Middle stages, and work on the Secondary stage was reported as ongoing. The philosophy flows directly from the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023, which ask for assessment that supports learning rather than merely ranking it. It helps to keep three ideas apart. Assessment of learning asks what the child has achieved. Assessment for learning asks what the teacher should do next. Assessment as learning asks what the child can notice about her own thinking. For decades our system has lived almost entirely in the first idea. The HPC, at its best, invites us into the other two. A winter calendar and a summer template Kashmir Division follows a winter calendar, and schools here have rolled out the HPC. Teachers have struggled, and most have learnt to complete the required fields. That deserves acknowledgement. Learning a new digital document in the middle of teaching, examinations and administrative returns is no small feat. But completing fields and understanding assessment are different achievements. The questions teachers are asking show where the gap lies. How should one choose among R1, R2 and R3 at the middle stage, and between R1 and R2 at the foundational stage? How does one fetch an activity from the activity bank? How does one create an activity, place it in the online document, and map it to learning standards and the PARAKH framework? I have no survey to cite, and I will not pretend otherwise. These are concerns I have encountered in my own observation, and they need systematic study. Notice, though, that nearly all of them are procedural questions about the document. Very few are questions about the child. When teachers ask how to fill a field, we are probably seeing a reporting tool arrive before the assessment thinking that should precede it. There is also a structural question worth asking. PARAKH's published material appears to map activities across an April-to-March session. Kashmir's academic rhythm differs, with its winter vacation and its own session boundaries. Is the card's timeline being adapted sensibly to our calendar, or are teachers left to reconcile the two on their own? An honest review should find out. Fix the pedagogy first My central argument is simple. Before we address the problems of the HPC, we must address the problems of our pedagogy. A progress card can only record what the classroom has made visible. If lessons are lectures followed by recall questions, there is little to observe beyond recall. No format, however elegant, can capture curiosity that was never invited. If we want the card to say something true about a learner's creativity, collaboration or ethical sense, the classroom must first create occasions for those things to appear. That begins with questions, and with the children's own questions above all. A child who is allowed to ask why? and what if? is already doing the work of competency. The questions, the child's explanations of her thinking, her perceptions and her learning environment all feed her holistic development. A classroom where questions are welcomed produces rich evidence for the HPC almost as a by-product. A classroom where questions are discouraged will produce a card full of ticks and little truth. The same applies to teachers. Confusion is not a failure. It is where learning starts, and the questions teachers are asking about the HPC are the best professional-development agenda we could hope for. They should be gathered, discussed and answered, not silenced by the next circular. What teachers need to own For the HPC to mean something, teachers need to be at home with a set of ideas that cannot be learnt in a single workshop. These include formative and summative assessment, curricular goals, competencies and learning outcomes, and the skill of mapping an activity to a learning standard. They also include the craft of framing a good question, with a clear stem, plausible distractors and a defensible key. Finally, they include writing a rubric, which is the hardest part and the most important. A rubric is not a scoring sheet. It is a conversation with the learner. Its criteria tell her what quality looks like, and its descriptors show where she stands. Its levels show her where she might go next. A child who can read a rubric can plan her own growth, which is the point of assessment as learning. This is practice, not theory. A teacher should be identifying competencies and learning outcomes across the chapters of the prescribed textbooks, designing activities, and building rubrics for them throughout the year. After a hundred such experiences, mapping an activity to a standard stops being a clerical task and becomes professional instinct. The risk of the single sitting The danger I most want to name is the default mindset of finishing a task. Our system is very good at converting reforms into returns, and an HPC filled in one sitting at the end of the session is a compliance exercise wearing the clothes of a reform. It records the teacher's memory, not the child's journey. A 360-degree document cannot be built in a week. It needs almost a full year of working with children, colleagues, parents and peers. The evidence should accumulate in portfolios, projects, observation notes and conversations, and the card should be a living record that is revisited rather than a form submitted. If the card is truly to show a learner's choices, tendencies and possible directions, it must be assembled slowly enough for those things to emerge. The parent and the multilingual classroom PARAKH treats parent observation as a major component of the card. That is a genuine opportunity. For many parents in Kashmir, a report card has meant a mark and a rank. A card that asks them what they notice at home, such as whether their child shares, persists or wonders, widens their understanding of what schooling is for. But this will not happen if the card arrives only at the end of the year. Parents need to be invited early and to see why their observations matter. They also need those observations to be asked for in a language and a manner they find natural. Language is the wider question. Our classrooms bring together Kashmiri, Urdu, Gojri, Pahari and other home languages, alongside English. Can a teacher record a child's strengths in the child's own linguistic world? Will a rural parent find the document intelligible? And in a small multi-grade school with one or two teachers, how can the card be sustained alongside everything else? These are open questions, and context-sensitive answers will serve us better than uniform instructions. The way forward None of this is an argument against the HPC. It is an argument for giving it the conditions in which it can work. Several steps seem realistic. First, training should move from explaining fields to showing practice. Teachers learn assessment by watching an assessment happen, so demonstration sessions built on real classroom situations, with a real activity, a real rubric and real student work, would do more than any number of presentations. Second, DIETs and SCERT should act as academic mentors rather than collectors of returns. A visit that asks show me a child's portfolio and let us discuss it teaches more than a visit that counts completed cards. Third, we need simple, contextual rubrics and exemplars, ideally developed with Urdu/Kashmiri teachers, in forms that a teacher in a remote school can adapt without a specialist beside her. Fourth, documentation should be reduced wherever the HPC makes older records redundant. A reform that adds to the workload without removing anything will be quietly resisted, and with good reason. Fifth, parent-teacher interaction should be built into the calendar across the year, not left to the end of it. Finally, we should review quality rather than quantity. The success of the HPC cannot be measured by the number of cards filled. It should be judged by whether teachers understand their learners better, whether classroom assessment has grown stronger, and whether parents and schools are better able to support each child. A light, not a ledger A ledger records what has happened. A lamp shows what is there and where one might walk next. The Holistic Progress Card can be either, and the difference will not be decided in New Delhi or in an online form. It will be decided in classrooms, by whether teachers are given the time, trust and training to look closely at children. If we do that, the card will matter. If we do not, it will be one more format completed on schedule, and the child at the centre of it will be no better understood. (The Author is a teacher educator with about 30 years of service; he writes on school education, assessment and teacher development. The views expressed are personal. He can be emailed at: sheikhgulzar1970@gmail.com )

Jammu University offers one-time mercy chance to clear backlogs

Srinagar, Nov 10: In a major relief to students who have exhausted their chances or exceeded the prescribed period of eligibility, the University of Jammu has announced a One-Time Special Mercy Chance to clear their pending backlog papers. According to an official notification issued by the Examination Wing of the University of Jammu, the special opportunity will be available to students enrolled in LL.B. (Three-Year Course), B.A. LL.B. (Five-Year Course), B.Ed., M.Ed., B.E. and undergraduate courses under the Annual Pattern. As per the notification, eligible candidates can submit their duly completed examination forms in person at Window No. 1, Examination Block-II, Examination Wing, University of Jammu, on or before **November 30, 2026**. Forms will also be accepted with a prescribed late fee up to **December 10, 2026**. The university has clarified that candidates will be required to deposit the prescribed examination fee along with an additional 25 per cent of the applicable fee, which will be non-refundable. The payment must be made through a demand draft drawn in favour of the Registrar, University of Jammu. The special mercy chance will be strictly limited to clearing existing backlog papers in the concerned class, course or semester. It will not grant candidates any fresh eligibility for admission, continuation or progression to subsequent classes, courses or semesters. The examinations are tentatively scheduled to be conducted in March-April 2027 , providing students with at least two months to prepare. The detailed date sheet will be notified on the university's official website, www.coeju.com, well in advance. No individual intimation will be issued to candidates. The notification further states that no examination forms will be entertained beyond the prescribed deadline, including the late-fee period. Candidates appearing under the special scheme will also not be entitled to any further re-appearance opportunity, re-evaluation or rechecking of their results. Students have been advised to submit a self-attested copy of both sides of their Aadhaar Card, along with their mobile number and email address, while submitting the examination form. The university has also clarified that the scheme will not override existing statutory provisions governing the concerned courses, including rules relating to division improvement, grace marks and other examination-related benefits. The final terms and conditions, including any amendments or withdrawal of the scheme, will be notified on the university website at least two weeks before the commencement of the examination.

Fire damages commercial building, two houses in Indra Nagar

Srinagar, Nov 10: A fire broke out in Indra Nagar area of Srinagar, damaging three structures, including a commercial building and two residential houses, prompting the deployment of multiple Fire and Emergency Services stations and nine fire tenders to contain the blaze. Officials said the Fire Control Room Batamaloo received a running fire call after flames erupted in the area. Immediately after receiving the information, fire tenders from different stations were mobilised to prevent the fire from spreading to adjoining structures. Officials said that due to heavy traffic congestion, fire tenders initially faced some difficulty in reaching the spot. However, SSP Traffic City Srinagar, along with concerned traffic personnel, intervened and facilitated the movement of fire tenders, ensuring their passage towards the affected area. Upon reaching the spot, firefighters found that a commercial building and two residential houses had been engulfed by the fire, with the attic portions of all three structures involved in the blaze. Firefighting operations were immediately launched, with personnel working tirelessly alongside police officials and local residents to bring the situation under control and prevent further damage. Officials said that Fire Station Gaw Kadal, F&ES Headquarters Batamaloo, Fire Station Hari Niwas and Fire Station Nowgam were pressed into service. Additionally, water bowsers from F&ES Headquarters were also dispatched as reinforcement to ensure an adequate water supply during the firefighting operation. The coordinated efforts of firefighters, police personnel, traffic officials and local residents played an important role in tackling the blaze. Officials further said that the exact cause of the fire was not immediately known and is being investigated.

Focus on expanding NCC outreach to remote areas: Maj Gen Mukesh Sharma

Srinagar, Nov 10: Major General Mukesh Sharma has assumed charge as the Additional Director General (ADG) of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Directorate, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, pledging to expand the organisations outreach, empower young cadets and strengthen its training programmes. Under the theme Envision and Evolve: Empowering Youth, Strengthening NCC, Building the Nation, Maj Gen Sharma said his focus would be on building upon the achievements of his predecessors while introducing fresh ideas and initiatives to further strengthen the NCC. After assuming the charge, he said the organisation would continue to uphold its guiding principles of Unity and Discipline and work towards developing confident, disciplined and responsible young citizens with strong leadership qualities and a spirit of service. Outlining his priorities, Maj Gen Sharma said expanding the NCCs outreach to more schools and colleges, particularly in remote, rural and border areas, would remain a key focus to ensure that geographical challenges do not deprive young people of opportunities. He also emphasised the empowerment of girl cadets, citing the achievement of 20 girl cadets who successfully crossed the 5,578-metre-high Parang La Pass during the Aparajita Expedition as an example of their courage, determination and leadership. He said the Directorate would continue to create more such opportunities for young women to demonstrate their capabilities and take up challenging assignments. On modernisation, the ADG said efforts would be made to make NCC training more contemporary, relevant and engaging while strengthening teamwork and partnerships with educational institutions, the civil administration and other stakeholders. Addressing young cadets, Maj Gen Sharma urged them to dream big, embrace challenges, maintain physical fitness, stay away from drugs and continuously develop their skills. NCC is not merely about uniforms, drills and parades; it is about building character, leadership and responsible citizens, he said. He also acknowledged the contribution of NCC officers and staff working at the grassroots level, saying their dedication and guidance played a vital role in shaping young cadets into disciplined and responsible citizens. Maj Gen Sharma sought continued support from the Jammu and Kashmir government, the UT administration of Ladakh, educational institutions, parents and the media in strengthening the organisation. Highlighting the role of the media, he said it had an important responsibility in bringing the achievements and contributions of NCC cadets to public attention. Our aim is simple to reach more youth, create more opportunities and build a stronger NCC for a stronger nation, he said. He expressed confidence that collective efforts would help the NCC Directorate adapt to changing times, empower young people and prepare them to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

Ladakh to hold Panchayat, Municipal polls on Nov 21

Leh, Nov 10: Ladakh is gearing up for a major democratic exercise, with elections to Panchayats, Leh and Kargil Municipal Councils scheduled for November 21, followed by elections to all eight Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs) on December 4. Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, IAS, announced the election schedule while addressing a press conference, where he also briefed the media on the proposed Excise Policy and Nautor Land Regulations. Providing details of the electoral preparations, Kundra said that elections would be conducted across 192 Panchayat Halqas, while voters in Leh and Kargil would elect their representatives to the respective Municipal Councils on November 21. He said that elections to all eight LAHDCs, covering 100 constituencies across Ladakh, would be held on December 4. This marks a significant expansion of the democratic framework following the creation of eight districts from the erstwhile two districts of Leh and Kargil. Consequently, the number of LAHDC constituencies has increased from 26 each in Leh and Kargil to 100 across the Union Territory. The delimitation exercise, he explained, was carried out under the prescribed rules, keeping population distribution, Panchayat Halqas and Municipal Wards in consideration. As per the announced schedule, November 17, 2026, is the last date for filing nominations for LAHDC elections, followed by scrutiny on November 18 and withdrawal of candidature on November 20. The entire electoral process is scheduled to be completed before December 8. Sharing the election statistics, the Chief Secretary said that 55 Sarpanches out of 192 Panchayat Halqas had already been elected unopposed, while elections would be held for the remaining 137 positions. Similarly, 1,186 Panch candidates out of a total of 1,428 had been elected unopposed. In the Leh Municipal Council, elections would be held in all 21 wards, while four of the 17 wards in the Kargil Municipal Council had elected their representatives unopposed. Highlighting another important aspect of the upcoming LAHDC elections, Kundra said that 36 out of the 100 seats had been reserved for women for the first time, describing it as a significant step towards enhancing women's participation and representation in grassroots democratic institutions. Responding to concerns surrounding the Excise Policy, the Chief Secretary said that the Ladakh Administration had held detailed discussions with women representatives and other stakeholders, taking into account the region's cultural values, traditions and local sensitivities. He assured that the policy would be reviewed through wider consultations after the completion of the elections, clarifying that no changes could be introduced while the Model Code of Conduct remained in force. Emphasising the importance of maintaining a balance between local traditions and economic considerations, Kundra observed that tourism remained a major pillar of Ladakh's economy and provided livelihoods to a large section of the population. Referring to the teachings of Lord Buddha and the principle of the Middle Path, he stressed that the next year's Excise Policy should be formulated through a balanced approach, taking into consideration the concerns of society as well as economic realities. On the proposed Nautor Land Regulations, Kundra said that the draft had been prepared to address the long-pending issue of people occupying Nautor land without proper legal titles. He said that suggestions and objections received from the public, particularly regarding land regularisation rates and the proposed provisions concerning land belonging to universities, educational institutions and religious organisations, would be carefully examined. The Chief Secretary assured that the final regulations would be framed only after detailed consultations with the newly elected LAHDCs, ensuring that the concerns of local communities and institutions were adequately addressed. He further clarified that the newly elected Hill Development Councils would retain all powers vested in them under the existing law. In addition, they would exercise the powers envisaged for District Panchayats under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, further strengthening their role in local governance and decentralised administration. Addressing concerns over holding elections during the winter season, Kundra assured that necessary arrangements would be made to facilitate voters, particularly in areas experiencing extreme cold. He said instructions had been issued to all Deputy Commissioners to ensure adequate facilities at polling stations, including heaters and separate queues for senior citizens, so that people could exercise their democratic rights without facing unnecessary difficulties. He also underlined the importance of constituting the newly elected Councils on time, noting that January, February and March would be crucial months for the Councils to prepare the budget for the next financial year. Concluding his address, the Chief Secretary appealed to all sections of society, particularly youth, women, senior citizens, religious organisations and government employees, to participate enthusiastically in the forthcoming elections and exercise their right to vote. He pointed out that Panchayat elections had not been held in Ladakh for the past three years, making the forthcoming electoral exercise particularly significant for restoring and strengthening grassroots democratic institutions. Referring to discussions with the Apex Body and other stakeholders, Kundra reiterated the commitment of the Government of India and the Ladakh Administration towards strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring the early constitution of the newly established District Councils. He urged the people of Ladakh to come forward in large numbers and make the forthcoming elections a success, describing the exercise as an important milestone in deepening democracy and strengthening public participation in governance across the Union Territory.

Sakeena Itoo visits family of deceased Sopore medical student

Sopore, November 10: Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo on Tuesday visited the bereaved family of 26-year-old MBBS student Adnan Altaf Rather at Dangerpora in Sopore and expressed condolences over his death in Bangladesh. During the visit, the Minister conveyed her sympathies to the family and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and strength and patience for the bereaved family. Expressing grief over the incident, Itoo said the death of a young student pursuing his dream of becoming a doctor was deeply saddening. Words cannot adequately express the pain of a family that has lost its young son. May Almighty Allah grant the departed soul the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous and bless the family with strength and patience to bear this immense loss, she said. The Minister was accompanied by Gulmarg MLA Farooq Ahmad Shah, Pattan MLA Javid Reyaz and Sopore MLA Irshad Rasool Kar, who also expressed condolences and conveyed solidarity with the bereaved family.

Javid Dar asks officers to step up field visits, address farmers' concerns

Jammu, Nov 10: Minister for Agriculture Production, Finance, Mining and Cooperative Departments Javid Ahmad Dar on Tuesday directed Horticulture Department officers to intensify field visits and ensure timely redressal of farmers' grievances. He was chairing a review meeting with senior officers of the Horticulture Department to assess the progress of ongoing projects and implementation of development schemes aimed at strengthening the horticulture sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Director Horticulture Jammu Gul Syed, Director Horticulture Kashmir Vikas Anand, Managing Director JKHPMC Mohammad Farooq and other senior officials. The Minister called for a focused and farmer-centric approach to ensure that the benefits of government schemes reach the intended beneficiaries, particularly small and marginal farmers. He stressed the need for transparency, accountability and timely delivery of benefits. Emphasising field-level monitoring, Dar directed officers and field functionaries to regularly visit horticulture areas, interact with farmers and assess the challenges faced by them. He said such visits should help identify implementation gaps and ensure prompt resolution of grievances. He also called for intensified awareness campaigns to inform farmers about government schemes, financial assistance, technological interventions and other support facilities, stressing that no eligible farmer should be left out due to lack of awareness or procedural difficulties. The Minister directed the officers to prepare district-specific development strategies based on local horticultural potential, production patterns and crop requirements. He called for need-based and crop-specific interventions to improve productivity and strengthen the sector. Dar also stressed the need to strengthen the entire horticulture value chain, including production, post-harvest management, processing and marketing, to ensure better returns for farmers. He called for coordinated efforts between the Horticulture Department, Jammu and Kashmir Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (JKHPMC) and other allied agencies for effective implementation of schemes and optimum utilisation of available resources. During the meeting, officers presented details of the physical and financial progress of various ongoing schemes and projects being implemented by the Horticulture Department, JKHPMC and allied sectors.

Mian Altaf visits remote Hill Kaka village, seeks urgent infrastructure push

Srinagar, November 10: Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad visited the remote Hill Kaka area of Poonch district, undertaking a difficult journey on horseback through mountainous terrain to meet residents and take stock of their grievances. During the visit, Mian Altaf interacted with local residents, tribal elders and members of the Gujjar-Bakarwal community to assess the availability of basic amenities and the challenges faced by people living in the far-flung region. Residents raised several issues, including the absence of electricity, poor road connectivity, shortage of drinking water, limited healthcare facilities and inadequate telecommunication services. Tribal elders also highlighted the difficulties faced by residents during harsh winter months and sought better access to government welfare schemes, including the VB-G-RAM scheme. Addressing the gathering, the MP said geographical remoteness should not prevent people from accessing basic facilities and government services. No region is too distant when it comes to resolving the genuine grievances of our people. I am here to ensure that your voice reaches the highest halls of governance, he said. Mian Altaf assured residents that their demands would be taken up with the concerned authorities and the government. He called for expediting pending infrastructure projects and improving the delivery of essential services to remote settlements. He also assured that demands for better road connectivity, improved telecommunication networks and establishment of health sub-centres would be taken up with the concerned departments for consideration in future development plans. Residents appreciated the MP's visit and said direct interaction with elected representatives provided an opportunity to highlight the difficulties faced by people in remote areas.

AIP seeks 40-year age limit for J&K Bank recruitment

Srinagar, November 10: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Tuesday urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to raise the upper age limit for Open Merit candidates to 40 years in the ongoing Jammu and Kashmir Bank recruitment process. Inam said the government should take an immediate decision on the issue without linking it to Jammu and Kashmir's Union Territory status or the restoration of statehood. He said that with 1,356 vacancies advertised and the upper age limit for Open Merit candidates fixed at 30 years, thousands of aspirants risk losing an opportunity despite waiting for recruitment for several years. The AIP spokesperson also called for a review of the reservation policy, saying concerns over the distribution of employment opportunities among Open Merit candidates needed to be addressed. He further demanded that J&K Bank make public its post-wise and category-wise reservation roster, including horizontal reservations and backlog vacancies, to ensure transparency in the recruitment process. He, however, said any review of the reservation framework must safeguard the legitimate constitutional rights of reserved communities. The Chief Minister must honour his promise. Raise the Open Merit upper age limit to 40 years, address the reservation rationalisation issue without further delay and make the Banks reservation roster public. Our youth cannot afford to lose more opportunities waiting for decisions that are long overdue, Inam said.

NC's history of sacrifices cannot be undermined by political rhetoric: Tanvir Sadiq

Srinagar, November 10: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) Chief Spokesperson and Zadibal MLA Tanvir Sadiq on Tuesday hit back at the Leader of Opposition, saying that claims about weakening the National Conference reflected a lack of understanding of the party's history and political legacy. Perhaps the Leader of Opposition needs a history lesson. The National Conference is not a political outfit that came into existence yesterday. It is an institution built on decades of struggle, immense sacrifices and the blood and sweat of generations who stood up for the rights and dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Those who have little understanding of this history should refrain from making such fanciful claims, Sadiq said. He said the party had withstood political conspiracies, difficult periods and repeated attempts to undermine its organisational strength, but its bond with the people remained intact. Let me make this absolutely clear: even if the Leader of Opposition were to mobilise his entire party against the National Conference, he would not be able to make even a small dent in our organisation. The NC draws its strength from the people, its history and its sacrifices. Political adventurism and wishful thinking cannot erase a legacy that has been built over generations, he said. Sadiq said that while some political leaders remained preoccupied with rhetoric and predictions about the NC's future, the party was focused on governance, fulfilling its commitments and addressing public concerns. Earlier, Sadiq undertook a tour of various areas of his Zadibal constituency, including New Colony Lal Bazar and interior areas of Nowshera, to review ongoing development works and assess public grievances. During the visit, he directed the concerned authorities to take up the repair and restoration of Nowshera Ghat, which, according to the statement, has become rodent-infested and is causing inconvenience to residents. He also visited the residence of Misra Bano, a widow from Hawal whose house was damaged in a natural calamity. Taking note of her circumstances and the responsibility of raising her daughter, Sadiq provided her financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh and assured her of further support. He said efforts would be made to expedite the establishment of the proposed Fire Station at Lal Bazar and ensure its transfer to the Fire and Emergency Services Department so that it could be made operational without further delay. Later, during a surprise visit to Primary Health Centre (PHC) Lal Bazar, he interacted with patients and attendants, reviewed the functioning of the facility and took note of the difficulties faced by people. He assured that the issues raised would be taken up with the concerned authorities for redressal.

Save Nilnag Front seeks authority, master plan for lake's conservation

Srinagar, November 10: The Save Nilnag Front on Tuesday called on Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather and sought focused government intervention for the conservation, restoration and planned development of Nilnag lake in south Kashmir. During the meeting, the delegation submitted a memorandum highlighting the historical, ecological and tourism significance of Nilnag and called for the constitution of a dedicated Nilnag Development Authority and preparation of a comprehensive five-year master plan for the area. The Front acknowledged the developmental initiatives undertaken in the constituency over the years, particularly in road connectivity, infrastructure, education, healthcare and electricity distribution. However, it stressed the need for a coordinated and time-bound approach to protect Nilnag's ecological character while tapping its tourism potential. In its memorandum, the Front stated that Nilnag, situated in the Pir Panjal forests, finds mention in historical accounts, including the Rajtarangini , and has also been documented by British historian Sir Walter Lawrence in his book The Valley of Kashmir . It said the lake could emerge as an important eco-tourism destination if its development was undertaken in an environmentally sustainable manner without disturbing its natural surroundings and ecological balance. Among its key recommendations, the Front proposed a high-level committee comprising representatives from the departments of Tourism, Forest and Ecology, Flood Control and Irrigation, Revenue, Gardens and Parks, Roads and Buildings, Floriculture, Fisheries, Jal Shakti and Soil Conservation to ensure coordinated planning and implementation. The delegation said a dedicated development authority with a clearly defined mandate would help streamline conservation measures, infrastructure development and tourism-related activities in the area. The Speaker heard the representatives and appreciated their concerns and suggestions regarding the preservation and development of Nilnag. He assured the delegation that the matter would be taken up with the concerned higher authorities for consideration and that all possible efforts would be made to explore measures for the conservation, restoration and planned development of the lake.

Jugal Kishore, Jammu MLAs seek relief for fire-hit traders from CM Omar

Jammu, November 10: Member of Parliament from Jammu Jugal Kishore Sharma and several MLAs from Jammu district on Tuesday called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and sought financial assistance for traders affected by recent fire incidents in Jammu city. During the meeting at the Civil Secretariat, the public representatives apprised the Chief Minister of the damage caused by fires at Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station, Warehouse near Nehru Market and Pahari Mohalla. They highlighted the difficulties being faced by affected traders and shopkeepers and urged the government to extend financial assistance to help them recover from the losses. The Chief Minister said relief was being provided to those affected by the fire incidents and assured the representatives that all possible assistance would be extended to the traders. Abdullah had earlier visited Shiv Market to assess the damage and interact with affected shopkeepers. He had also deputed the Deputy Chief Minister and a Cabinet Minister to visit Warehouse near Nehru Market to assess the situation and take stock of the losses suffered by traders. Those who called on the Chief Minister included Jugal Kishore Sharma, Jammu North MLA Sham Lal Sharma, Bahu MLA Vikram Randhawa, RS Pura-Jammu South MLA Narinder Singh Raina, Jammu West MLA Yudhvir Sethi and Jammu East MLA Arvind Gupta. Meanwhile, Surankote MLA Choudhary Mohd Akram also called on the Chief Minister and discussed developmental issues and public welfare concerns related to his constituency.

Prof. Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, Director, SKIMS, Soura, called on LG Manoj Sinha and briefed him about various initiatives undertaken by the institute to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and improved patient care.

CM calls for fast-Tracking SASCI projects

Directs Deptts to ensure timely completion, full utilisation of funds Jammu Tawi, Nov 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress of projects under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), directing departments to accelerate execution, ensure financial discipline and achieve expenditure targets within stipulated [] The post CM calls for fast-Tracking SASCI projects appeared first on Northlines .

Kargil shuts down against winter LAHDC polls

Winter Polls may disenfranchise 2025 pc Ladakh voters: Kargili Kargil, Nov 10: Kargil on Monday observed a complete shutdown in response to a call by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and other organisations against the proposed holding of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) elections during winter, with protesters demanding that the polls be deferred. [] The post Kargil shuts down against winter LAHDC polls appeared first on Northlines .

Defence Prod Deptt reviews 1 lakh files, frees 19.35 lakh sq ft space

New Delhi, Nov 10: The Department of Defence Production has successfully completed Special Campaign 6.0, conducted in two phases, with the objective of institutionalizing Swachhata (cleanliness) and minimising pendency across its offices. In a statement, a spokesperson said the campaign was conducted in two phases, with the preparatory phase from October 15 to 31, 2026, [] The post Defence Prod Deptt reviews 1 lakh files, frees 19.35 lakh sq ft space appeared first on Northlines .

NC plans MLAs Advisory Groups for Ministers

Jammu Tawi, Nov 10: In a major outreach to disgruntled party lawmakers, National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah has accepted a proposal to constitute informal advisory groups of MLAs for each minister in the Omar Abdullah-led government in Jammu and Kashmir, party sources said. The NC chief wrote to all MLAs days after a meeting [] The post NC plans MLAs Advisory Groups for Ministers appeared first on Northlines .

MP, Legislators meet Omar over fire incidents; seek relief for traders

CM assures all possible assistance Jammu Tawi, Nov 10 : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday assured traders affected by the recent fire incidents in Jammu that the government would extend all possible assistance to them. Abdullah gave the assurance during his interaction with a BJP delegation comprising Member of Parliament from Jammu Jugal [] The post MP, Legislators meet Omar over fire incidents; seek relief for traders appeared first on Northlines .

8 women, children among 19 report dog bite cases

Jammu Tawi, Nov 10 : At least 19 people, including eight women and children, reported dog bite cases at a sub-district hospital in Mendhar in Poonch district on Tuesday. According to an official report, the dog-bite victims belonged to different areas of Mendhar and also included people from outside the region who were currently staying [] The post 8 women, children among 19 report dog bite cases appeared first on Northlines .

US mid-term elections internal matter, unlikely to impact bilateral ties: MEA

New Delhi, Nov 10 : The US mid-term elections were an internal matter of the country and are unlikely to impact ties between New Delhi and Washington, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the India-US partnership enjoys strong bipartisan support in Washington and both sides remain [] The post US mid-term elections internal matter, unlikely to impact bilateral ties: MEA appeared first on Northlines .

CISCE board exams from Feb 9

New Delhi, Nov 10: The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) on Tuesday announced the schedule for the 2027 board exams, with class 10 and 12 exams set to begin from Feb 15 and 9, respectively. A total of 3,79,980 candidates will appear for the two examinations. The ICSE (class 10) examination will [] The post CISCE board exams from Feb 9 appeared first on Northlines .

LG Sinha directs SKIMS to ensure best treatment for injured tourists

Srinagar, November 10, 2026: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha spoke to the senior officials and inquired about the health and well-being of the tourists who were injured in an unfortunate road accident at Sumbal Bala, in Ganderbal. He has directed the officials and Director, SKIMS to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said: I spoke with senior officials, Director, SKIMS, and the Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal regarding the unfortunate road accident at Sumbal Bala, Ganderbal. 8 injured tourists from Gujarat and West Bengal have been referred to SKIMS. I have directed the officials and the Director, SKIMS to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. Praying for their speedy recovery.

Sakina Itoo Seeks Age Relaxation Up to 40 Years for J&K Bank Aspirants

Srinagar: Minister Sakina Itoo has appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir Bank authorities to grant age relaxation up to 40 years for aspirants awaiting recruitment opportunities, saying that young candidates should not suffer because of delays beyond their control. In a post on X, Itoo highlighted the concerns of thousands of J&K Bank aspirants who, she said, have lost precious years waiting for recruitment opportunities. Dreams should not have an expiry date! she said, emphasising that candidates should not be penalised for delays in the recruitment process. Appealing directly to the J&K Bank authorities, the Minister urged them to consider granting age relaxation up to 40 years to provide aspirants with a fair opportunity to compete for jobs.

The First Computer: Reminiscences of Those Wonderful Days

By Syed Majid Gilani Some memories remain with us for a lifetime. We may get busy with our daily lives, but certain moments never really leave us. Sometimes, a small thought takes us years back, bringing before our eyes places, faces and incidents that once formed a part of our everyday lives. Yesterday, a [] The post The First Computer: Reminiscences of Those Wonderful Days appeared first on Northlines .

Republicans struggling to come out of Nov 3 debacle to prepare for 2028 Prez polls

J.D. Vance, Marco Rubio and Ron Desantis have joined the fray by appealing to donors By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers WASHIGTON DC: The battle for the Republican Partys 2028 presidential nomination has effectively begun. But the real contest is not merely about personalities. It is about whether the GOP will perpetuate Trumps divisive political [] The post Republicans struggling to come out of Nov 3 debacle to prepare for 2028 Prez polls appeared first on Northlines .

Army Jawan Posted at Rashtrapati Bhawan Shot Dead

SRINAGAR: A 26-year-old Army jawan posted with the Presidents Bodyguard unit at Rashtrapati Bhawan was shot dead during a dispute over bursting firecrackers on Diwali night in Uttar Pradeshs Baghpat district, The Indian Express reported. The deceased, identified as Saurabh Tomar, was at his native Gopalpur Khadana village to celebrate Diwali with his family. He []

JPDCL Issues Posting Orders for 39 Newly Promoted Junior Engineers

SRINAGAR: The Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) has adjusted 39 newly promoted Junior Engineers (Electric) across its divisions, circles and other wings in Jammu, with the postings taking effect immediately. An order issued by JPDCL Managing Director Gurpal Singh, IAS, on November 10, 2026, follows the promotion of Technicians and Draftsmen to the post []

Ganderbal Accident: LG Sinha Directs Best Possible Treatment for Injured Tourists

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday directed officials and the Director of SKIMS Soura to ensure the best possible medical treatment for tourists injured in a Tempo Traveller accident at Sumbal Bala in Ganderbal district. The Lieutenant Governor said he had spoken to senior government officials, the Director of Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences []

12 Injured as Tempo Traveller Skids Off Road in Ganderbal

Ganderbal, Nov 10 : At least 12 persons, including tourists from Gujarat, West Bengal and Punjab, were injured after a Tempo Traveller skidded off the road near Gund area of central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Tuesday evening, officials said. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the vehicle skidded off the road near Sumbal Bala on the SSG Road, resulting in injuries to at least 12 occupants. He said the injured were shifted to Primary Health Centre (PHC) Gund, where they were provided emergency medical treatment before several of them were referred to SKIMS Soura, Srinagar, for specialised treatment. The injured were identified as Sharda Bi, wife of Ramesh Bhai, and Ramesh Bhai, son of Bovin Bi, both residents of Ahmedabad, Gujarat; Daysha, son of Subash Chandra, a resident of Surat, Gujarat; Shobha, wife of Rajesh Kumar, and Rajesh Kumar, son of Derubi Patil, both residents of Ahmedabad. Others include Swarnadyyti Ghosh, wife of Surjeet Ghosh, a resident of West Bengal; Mala Ghosh, wife of Surjeet Ghosh, a resident of Murshidabad, West Bengal; Surjeet Ghosh, son of Late Krishna Dulal Ghosh, also from West Bengal; Mukesh Bhai, his wife Kala Ben, and their son Rohan Bhai, all residents of Gujarat; and Jagdesh, son of Amreet Singh, a resident of Gurdaspur, Punjab. Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated further investigation.(KNO)

Jammu Kashmir Forest Department Seeks GPS Devices for All Beat Guards, Desktops for Range Officers

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department has sought a comprehensive assessment of the shortage of information technology equipment across its field formations, with a focus on providing functional GPS devices to every Beat Guard and desktop computers to every Range Officer. In a communication dated November 9, 2026, the Office of the Principal Chief []

Body of Missing Woman Recovered from River in Rajouri

SRINAGAR: Police on Tuesday evening recovered the partially decomposed body of a young woman from a river in Solki village of Rajouri district. Officials said a police team rushed to the spot after receiving information and retrieved the body from the river. The body was found to be partially decomposed, indicating that it may have []

Agnipath 2.0: Diluting the Original Vision of Military Reform

By Shivanand Pandit The Agnipath scheme was introduced in 2022 to reform military recruitment and create a younger, fitter and technologically advanced armed force. Another major objective was to reduce the growing expenditure on soldiers salaries, pensions and retirement benefits, particularly after the implementation of the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme in 2014. Under [] The post Agnipath 2.0: Diluting the Original Vision of Military Reform appeared first on Northlines .

Bengal Industry bodies happy at state Govt

Suvendu Administration making special efforts to acquire lands By Tirthankar Mitra KOLKATA: Unveiled recently, the West Bengal Investment Promotion Policy, 2026 addressed some key issues while taking flak for charges of overlooking the problem of scarcity of land for industry in the state. Land is a key driver of industry. That is why [] The post Bengal Industry bodies happy at state Govts offer of industrial plots appeared first on Northlines .

Govardhan Puja: Wisdom for a Better World

Ancient Indian philosophy of ecological protection, food security and collective welfare holds vital lessons for Viksit Bharat and Surakshit Vishva Prof. Jayadeba Sahoo Loka-Sagraham Evpi Sampayan Kartum Arhasi. You should act with a view to the welfare and preservation of the world. Bhagavad Gita (3.20) Human civilisation stands at [] The post Govardhan Puja: Wisdom for a Better World appeared first on Northlines .

Over a Dozen Injured in Road Accident on SSG Road

SRINAGAR: At least a dozen tourists from Gujarat, West Bengal and Punjab were injured after a Tempo Traveller skidded off the road near Sumbal Bala on the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road in Ganderbal district on Tuesday evening. According to sources, the vehicle was travelling from Sonamarg towards Srinagar when the accident occurred near Gund. The injured []

Leh Labour Commissioner Proposes Reinstatement, Rs 3.06 Lakh Maternity Benefits for Former HIAL Employee

SRINAGAR: The Assistant Labour Commissioner (ALC), Leh, has proposed the reinstatement of a former employee of Sheshyon Innovations Private Limited (HIAL) and payment of Rs 3.06 lakh in maternity-related benefits after she raised grievances over denial of maternity leave, non-payment of benefits and termination of her services without prior notice. The matter concerns Amina Khatoon, []

Several Injured After Vehicle Falls Off SSG Road in Ganderbal

SRINAGAR: Several people were injured after a Tempo Traveller skidded off the road and fell down near Sumbalballa Gund on the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Tuesday evening. According to reports, the vehicle went out of control before skidding off the road, leaving several occupants injured. Locals and police personnel rushed []

District Admin Bandipora issues Weather Advisory

BANDIPORA, NOVEMBER 10: In view of the prevailing weather advisory and the possibility of adverse weather conditions, including snowfall and disruption of road connectivity in the far-flung areas of Bandipora and Gurez, the District Administration Bandipora has issued a weather advisory for tourists, travellers, aspirants appearing in the upcoming Finance Accounts Assistant examination and the general public. As per the advisory issued by District Administration Bandipora, candidates belonging to these areas who are scheduled to appear in the OMR-based written examination for the post of Accounts Assistant (Finance Department) on November 15, 2026, have been advised to plan their journey well in advance and reach nearby stations or locations sufficiently ahead of the examination date, keeping in view the possibility of road closures and weather-related disruptions. Tourists presently staying in Gurez have been advised to plan their departure immediately in consultation with the District Control Room. Furthermore, Gurez Sector has temporarily been declared out of bounds for tourists in view of the prevailing weather advisory. The advisory also requests expectant mothers residing in upper reaches, whose expected date of delivery falls within one month, to shift to nearby hospitals to ensure timely and appropriate medical care. The general public has also been urged to avoid unnecessary travel towards Gurez and higher reaches and refrain from social gatherings in such areas. For assistance and information, the public can contact the District Control Room, Bandipora, on 7006526985, 7006630771 and 7006328689.

Setback to Sonam Wangchuk

Leh, November 10: In a setback to Sonam Wangchuk-associated HIAL, the Ladakh Labour Court has directed the institution to reinstate Amina Khatoon, whose services were terminated after childbirth in 2024, and pay 3.03 lakh in maternity benefits along with a medical bonus of 3,500. The court observed that her termination was carried out without prior [] The post Setback to Sonam Wangchuks HIAL: Labour Court Directs Reinstatement of Terminated Employee, Orders 3.03 Lakh Maternity Benefits appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

Chief Secretary Ladakh Calls for active public participation in upcoming elections, assures stakeholder consultations on key policy matters

Leh, November 2026: The Chief Secretary, Union Territory of Ladakh, Shri Ashish Kundra, IAS addressed a press conference to brief the media on the forthcoming Panchayat, Municipal Council and Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) elections, besides addressing key policy matters concerning the Excise Policy and Nautor Land Regulations. Extending Diwali greetings to the people [] The post Chief Secretary Ladakh Calls for active public participation in upcoming elections, assures stakeholder consultations on key policy matters appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

No woman politician has endured as much: Mehbooba Mufti calls Sonia Gandhi's memoir 'beautiful'; slams BJP over Nehru remarks

Srinagar , November 10 : Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday praised Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi's memoir 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', saying that no woman politician had endured as much as she had, while also defending the legacy of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and criticising the BJP's ideological approach. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Mufti said she had witnessed Sonia Gandhi's evolution as a political leader and stateswoman and admired her strength in dealing with personal tragedies, including the assassinations of her mother-in-law, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and husband Rajiv Gandhi. I have seen Sonia Gandhi evolving into a leader and then into a stateswoman. She has gone through a lot. I mean, in my opinion, no woman politician has endured as much as she has. And the way she carried herself, especially when, you know, the trauma her children faced when their grandmother and then father Rajiv ji was killed... I mean, that must have been very emotionally taxing on her, Mufti said. But still, to come up with such a beautiful book, with so many, you know, happy memories--of course, there are sad occasions also in it. I think it's something, you know, really I admire in her. She has the capacity, she has the, you know... she has the strength to bear it all, she added. Mufti also criticised the BJP over its remarks on Nehru, highlighting his contribution to nation-building and the establishment of institutions after Independence. And the way the BJP people--the way they are talking about Jawaharlal Nehru--what would they understand about Jawaharlal Nehru? Jawaharlal Nehru was the person, was the Prime Minister who, at a time when the whole country... before Independence, he went to jail; his daughter went to jail. After that, that family gave two Prime Ministers who sacrificed their lives for this country. That is Jawaharlal Nehru's legacy, she said. She further credited Nehru with steering the country through the communal tensions surrounding Partition and establishing institutions, industries and basic infrastructure. He steered this nation at a time when Hindus and Muslims were thirsty for each other's blood. And this country had virtually nothing. Education was hardly even 15 to 20 per cent. After that, he gave institutions here, gave ISRO, through which they are launching satellites and other things into space today. He built this nation, gave it industries, gave it basic infrastructure, which today they are handing over entirely to Adani, Mufti said. In my view, the BJP cannot understand Jawaharlal Nehru because their mentality, their mindset, is very narrow. Their mindset is only about pitting Hindus and Muslims against each other, Mufti alleged. Mufti further described the memoir as a reflection of the ideological differences between the Congress and the BJP, saying Sonia Gandhi associated herself with Mahatma Gandhi, secularism and democracy. I feel that this book--I haven't heard much about it yet, though I have read a little bit--its a beautiful book, and it tells you the truth: that the BJP's ideology is the ideology of the RSS, Jan Sangh, and Godse, whereas Sonia Gandhi associates herself with Gandhi ji, secularism, and democracy. So, I think it must be a very interesting book, she said. Asked about the title Belonging, given that Gandhi has long been accused of having an Italian mindset, Mufti said, In my opinion, she... as I said earlier, the way she evolved as a leader, as a stateswoman... in the BJP, you don't even have a single... leave alone a statesman, you don't even have a true leader. They are just RSS pracharaks. They are rioters, considering what they are doing right now and the riot-like atmosphere they have created. She (Sonia Gandhi) was always called an outsider, but the amount she has sacrificed for this country--her husband's sacrifice, and before that, her mother-in-law's sacrifice... I think in the history of India, no other family has fought as much for freedom, nor made as many sacrifices for the integrity of this nation, as this family has, Mufti added. The remarks come amid a political controversy surrounding Sonia Gandhi's newly released memoir, which touches upon her personal journey, political experiences, the Nehru-Gandhi family and her criticism of the BJP-led government. In her memoir, Sonia Gandhi has accused the BJP of systematically dismantling democratic institutions, suppressing dissent and centralising political and economic power. She has also alleged that the RSS has brought several educational institutions under its ideological influence. Gandhi has criticised the government's 2016 demonetisation decision, the functioning of central investigative agencies and the Election Commission of India (ECI). She has also accused the ruling party of using government agencies to target political opponents. The memoir has drawn sharp reactions from BJP leaders. BJP national spokesperson CR Kesavan criticised the book, saying it could have been titled 'Whitewashing' instead of 'Belonging: A Journey of Love'. Sonia Gandhi could have titled her memoir 'Whitewashing', instead of 'Belonging' because the motive of this book appears to be sugarcoating the historical wrongs perpetrated by the Nehru-Gandhi family and camouflaging the cardinal sins committed by the Congress party, Kesavan said. Questioning her references to the Babri Masjid demolition, the 1984 anti-Sikh massacre, the Batla House encounter and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Kesavan asked whether she had expressed similar grief over the deaths of innocent people and security personnel. He also criticised her account of the Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, saying it was appalling and shocking to normalise or justify a period during which fundamental rights were suspended. In Patna, JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha questioned Sonia Gandhi's account of declining the Prime Minister's post in 2004, claiming that Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav had refused to support her. This is a controversial matter as well. While managing numbers, what we know is that Mulayam Singh Yadav had refused to support her. Otherwise, there was a full attempt to become the PM. But she could not become. It is a different matter what she did or did not do, Jha said. Meanwhile, Congress leaders defended the memoir and rejected the BJP's criticism over Sonia Gandhi's reflections on the Babri Masjid demolition. Congress leader Salman Khurshid said there was deep regret across political circles over the demolition, including among BJP leaders Atal Bihari Vajpayee and LK Advani. Advani ji had also said that they did not want this to happen. Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said they didn't want this, Khurshid said. Congress MP Rajeev Shukla also accused the BJP of giving the memoir a political spin, arguing that several BJP leaders had themselves criticised the Babri Masjid's demolition at the time. (ANI)

900 Doctors Recruited in Two Years to Address Shortages in Remote Areas: Sakina Itoo

SRINAGAR: Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Tuesday said the Jammu and Kashmir Government had recruited 900 doctors over the past two years to address staff shortages, particularly in remote and far-flung areas. She made the announcement while inaugurating a New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) at Chukar in Tangmarg, constructed at a []

National Conference Sets Ball Rolling for Constitution of Advisory Groups

SRINAGAR: National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah has asked all party legislators to submit their preferences for inclusion in informal advisory groups to be attached to ministers. According to a letter, NC president stated that during a recent meeting with party legislators, it was decided to constitute informal advisory groups of MLAs to be attached []

Major Gen Mukesh Sharma Takes Over as ADG NCC for Jammu Kashmir, Ladakh

SRINAGAR: Major General Mukesh Sharma on Tuesday assumed charge as the Additional Director General (ADG) of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Directorate for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, outlining plans to expand the organisations reach, strengthen youth participation and modernise its training programmes. Under the theme Envision and Evolve: Empowering Youth, Strengthening NCC, Building the []

CM Omar Abdullah Directs Departments to Complete SASCI Works Within Deadline

SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday directed departments to complete ongoing projects under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) within the stipulated timeframe, stressing the need for timely execution and maximum utilisation of funds. Chairing a comprehensive review meeting, the Chief Minister assessed the physical and financial progress of []

NC sets ball rolling for constitution of advisory groups

Srinagar, Nov 10: In a significant development, National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah has written to all party legislators, asking them to submit their preferences for being attached to ministers as part of informal advisory groups. According to a letter accessed by the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), NC president stated that during a recent meeting with party legislators, it was decided to constitute informal advisory groups of MLAs to be attached to each minister. These legislators will act as a bridge between the party and the government. Ministers will be asked to hold regular meetings with their advisory groups and keep them informed of policy initiatives and the progress being made in their respective departments, the letter reads. The move is being seen as an attempt to address discontent among party MLAs following the recent cabinet expansion. In a memorandum submitted to the party leadership, the dissident legislators had suggested the constitution of consultative committees comprising MLAs to be attached to ministers. According to the letter, each legislator can be a member of up to two advisory groups. The MLAs have been asked to submit, in writing, a list of three ministers in order of their preference. The lists will be prepared and notified. Let us ensure that all legislators send in their preferences. Kindly complete this exercise within two weeks, the letter states.

Jammu Kashmir High Court Dismisses Jammu Firm

SRINAGAR: The Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has dismissed an appeal filed by a Jammu-based business firm seeking recovery of Rs 3.73 lakh from a hotel and restaurant, holding that the suit was filed beyond the prescribed limitation period and that the Supreme Courts COVID-19-related extension of limitation did not save the delayed claim. []

Pollution in Delhi-NCR: Sharp increase in vehicular emissions warrant urgent intervention, says SC

NEW DELHI: ) The sharp increase in vehicular emissions warrant urgent intervention, the Supreme Court has said while directing the governments of Delhi and three neighbouring states to apprise it about the steps taken to prevent the entry and operation of over-age vehicles within the National Capital Region. The apex court directed the governments of []

Jammu Warehouse Traders Call for 48-Hour Shutdown

SRINAGAR: Traders at Jammus Warehouse-Nehru Market complex, the citys largest wholesale grain market, have called a complete 48-hour shutdown following a devastating fire that gutted more than 15 shops and godowns during Diwali night. Some members of the traders federation have extended the shutdown to 72 hours, while loading and unloading operations have been suspended []

Ladakh Hill Council Elections on Dec 4, Nominations from Nov 17

Srinagar, Nov 10 : The State Election Commission, Ladakh, on Tuesday announced the schedule for elections to all Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs), with polling scheduled for December 4. As per a notification issued by the State Election Commission, a copy of which is available with the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), the last date for filing nominations is November 17, while scrutiny of nomination papers will be held on November 18. Candidates can withdraw their nominations by November 20, the notification reads. Polling, if required, will be held on December 4 between 8 am and 5 pm, while the entire election process will be completed by December 8. The notification was issued by State Election Commissioner Sudhanshu Pandey on November 10(KNO)

Mirwaiz Seeks Review of Anti-Terror Laws, Cites Six-Year Detention of Baramulla Youths

SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Tuesday urged authorities to review the practice of booking young people under anti-terror laws, citing the case of two Baramulla youths who spent six years in jail before being acquitted by a court after finding the evidence against them unreliable. In a statement, the Mirwaiz said the case highlighted the []

Ladakh to Hold LAHDC Elections on December 4

SRINAGAR: The State Election Commission, Ladakh, on Tuesday announced the schedule for elections to all Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs), with polling scheduled for December 4. According to a notification issued by the State Election Commission on November 10, the last date for filing nomination papers is November 17, while scrutiny will take place []

UT Administration Publishes Schedule For Elections To LAHDCs 2026

Leh,: The Administration of Union Territory of Ladakh has published the schedule for the forthcoming General Election to the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs) in the Union Territory. The schedule has been notified vide Order No. 551-LA(GAD) of 2026 dated 10.11.2026 issued by the General Administration Department. According to the order, the notification regarding []

Jammu Kashmir High Court Allows Woman Facing Murder Trial To File Fresh Bail Plea

SRINAGAR: The Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has granted a woman facing trial in a murder case liberty to file a fresh bail application before the trial court, directing the Additional Sessions Judge, Udhampur, to decide the plea expeditiously, preferably within four weeks of its filing. The High Court also directed the trial court []

6-Year-Old Boy Mauled to Death by Leopard in Baramulla's Kreeri

Baramulla, Nov 10 : A six-year-old boy was mauled to death by a leopard in Kalantra village of Kreeri in north Kashmirs Baramulla district, officials said. An official said that the boy was attacked by a leopard in Kalantra, Kreeri, leaving him injured. He was shifted to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The deceased was identified as Kifayat Bhat (6), son of Mohammad Ramzan Bhat, a resident of Kalantra, Kreeri. Meanwhile, cognisance of the incident has been taken and a probe has been initiated.(KNO)

Rising Air Pollution and Winter Smog May Increase the Risk of Stroke

Dr. Biplab Das, Organising Secretary, Stroke & AI 2026 and Director Neurology & Interventional Neuroradiology, Batra Hospital As winter approaches, deteriorating air quality and rising pollution levels across northern India have become a major public health concern. While the immediate effects of polluted air are commonly associated with respiratory problems, their impact extends much [] The post Rising Air Pollution and Winter Smog May Increase the Risk of Stroke appeared first on Northlines .

CM Omar Abdullah Reviews Progress Of Works Under SASCI, Stresses Time-Bound Completion

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a comprehensive meeting to review the progress of works under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI). The Chief Minister reviewed both physical and financial progress across key sectors, including Public Works, Jal Shakti, Youth Services and Sports, Power Development, and Housing & Urban []

India, Saudi Arabia Sign Haj Agreement for 2027; 1.75 Lakh Pilgrims to Perform Haj

NEW DELHI, Nov 10: India and Saudi Arabia have signed the bilateral Haj agreement for 2027, providing for 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims to undertake the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who is on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq [] The post India, Saudi Arabia Sign Haj Agreement for 2027; 1.75 Lakh Pilgrims to Perform Haj appeared first on Northlines .

Delhi Air Quality Improves to

NEW DELHI, Nov 10: Delhis air quality improved marginally to the poor category on Tuesday, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) settling at 299, against 376 recorded a day earlier, as increased wind speed helped disperse pollutants, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The improvement came a day after Diwali, when the [] The post Delhi Air Quality Improves to Poor as Winds Pick Up appeared first on Northlines .

Boy, 6, mauled to death by Leopard in Baramulla

Baramulla: A six-year-old boy was mauled to death by a leopard in Kalantra village of Kreeri in north Kashmirs Baramulla district, officials said. An official said that the boy was attacked by a leopard in Kalantra, Kreeri, leaving him injured. He was shifted to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The deceased was []

SMHS parking crunch forces roadside parking by patients, attendants

Srinagar, Nov 9: Shortage of parking space at SMHS hospital, one of Kashmirs largest tertiary care hospitals, has left patients and their attendants with little choice but to park their vehicles along adjoining roads, leading to prolonged traffic congestion in the area. With inadequate parking facilities within the hospital premises, people visiting the hospital for medical treatment are often forced to leave their vehicles on the roadside, resulting in traffic bottlenecks that continue for hours and cause inconvenience to commuters and other road users. Patients and attendants said that finding a parking space inside the hospital premises has become a major challenge, particularly during peak hours, leaving them with no alternative but to park their vehicles outside. Patients come to SMHS Hospital from different parts of Kashmir for treatment, but there is hardly any proper space to park vehicles inside the premises. We are left with no option but to park on the roadside, Mukhtar Ahmad, an attendant said on Monday. SMHS is one of the biggest hospitals in Kashmir and caters to patients from across the Valley. It is unfortunate that such an important healthcare institution does not have adequate parking arrangements. The government must take this issue seriously, said Bashir Ahmad, a local of the Bemina area. Locals said that many people visiting the hospital are already dealing with medical emergencies and the lack of adequate parking facilities adds to their difficulties. They have expressed concern over the growing traffic congestion and urged the government to take immediate measures to address the issue. They have appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Education Minister Sakina Itoo to intervene and ensure a permanent solution to the parking problem. They said that being a major referral hospital catering to patients from different parts of Kashmir, SMHS should have adequate parking arrangements to accommodate the large number of vehicles visiting its premises every day. Locals stressed that the authorities must identify additional parking space and put in place a proper traffic management plan to prevent roadside parking and ensure smooth movement of vehicles around the hospital. However, a few days back, Medical Superintendent (MS) SMHS Hospital, Dr Andleeb Bashir had told Rising Kashmir that the hospital has identified a designated area within the premises for parking, and the tendering process for its management will be initiated soon.

Manasbal Lake in Crisis: Former SSP Bashir Parrey Demands Immediate Govt Intervention

Former SSP Bashir Parrey, speaking to Rising Kashmir, says Mansbal Lake is believed to have originated from around 1,200 natural springs, as recalled by elderly locals. Expressing concern over its shrinking size, he calls for urgent government intervention, including dredging, desilting and other conservation measures. He also stresses the need to deploy dedicated staff to prevent garbage dumping and ensure the protection of this precious natural heritage. Reports Umar Raina

Asias Largest Tulip Garden Runs on 311/Day: The Dark Reality Behind Kashmirs Pride

Why I Quit Acting For Kashmir Politics | Mateena Rajputs Untold Story

AActor-turned-politician Mateena Rajput speaks about her new political journey, why she entered politics, her decision to leave acting, and social issues such as late marriages in Kashmir in a podcast with Rising Kashmirs Idrees Bukhtiyar Camera & Edit: Musaib Fayazctor-turned-politician Mateena Rajput speaks about her new political journey, why she entered politics, her decision to leave acting, and social issues such as late marriages in Kashmir in a podcast with Rising Kashmirs Idrees Bukhtiyar Camera & Edit: Musaib Fayaz

Short: India gets 1.75 lakh quota for Haj-2027

AIMSA Expresses Gratitude to Authorities for Bringing Adnan Altafs Mortal Remains Back to Kashmir

Srinagar, Nov 10: The All India Medical Students' Association (AIMSA) has expressed gratitude to the Union Ministry of External Affairs and External Affairs Minister for facilitating the repatriation of the mortal remains of Adnan Altaf, a Kashmiri MBBS student from Sopore, who tragically passed away in Bangladesh. In a letter addressed to the External Affairs Minister, AIMSA acknowledged the timely intervention of the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and other concerned authorities in ensuring that the mortal remains of the deceased student were brought back to India and handed over to his grieving family. AIMSA also appreciated the support extended by the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and Eastern Medical College for facilitating the necessary arrangements, including cargo transportation. Speaking on the matter, AIMSA President, Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Mohammad Momin Khan, said, We are thankful to the External Affairs Minister, the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and all the concerned authorities for their timely intervention and support in bringing back the mortal remains of Adnan Altaf to his family. Their efforts during this difficult time have provided immense relief to the bereaved family. He further said that the association deeply appreciated the Government of India's support to Indian citizens and their families in times of distress, even beyond the country's borders. AIMSA reiterated its gratitude to all the authorities and institutions involved in facilitating the repatriation process.

Shutdown In Kargil Against Holding Of LAHDC Polls In Winter

KARGIL/JAMMU, Nov 10: Kargil region in Ladakh on Tuesday observed a complete shutdown, demanding that the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) elections being held in winter months be deferred and the recently concluded delimitation exercise be reviewed. Shops and business establishments remained closed and traffic remained thin on roads across Kargil. Security was [] The post Shutdown In Kargil Against Holding Of LAHDC Polls In Winter appeared first on Northlines .

Public Servant in Judicial Custody for Over 48 Hours Deemed Suspended: SC

NEW DELHI, Nov 10: The Supreme Court has ruled that a public servant who remains in judicial custody for more than 48 hours is automatically deemed to be under suspension, and no separate order is required to give effect to the provision. A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and Manmohan made the observation while [] The post Public Servant in Judicial Custody for Over 48 Hours Deemed Suspended: SC appeared first on Northlines .

Fire Engulfs Hill In J

JAMMU, Nov 10: A massive fire that engulfed nearly 1,000 kanals (125 acres) of State land in Trigam area of Kishtwar was brought under control on Tuesday morning after an 11-hour-long joint firefighting operation involving multiple agencies and local volunteers. No casualties were reported, though the blaze caused extensive damage to vegetation, with dry grass [] The post Fire Engulfs Hill In J&Ks Kishtwar; Blaze Brought Under Control After 11-Hour Operation appeared first on Northlines .

Crime Branch Jammu Chargesheets Man in Rs 7.92 Lakh Bank Loan Fraud Case

JAMMU, Nov 10: The Crime Branch (Economic Offences Wing), Jammu, has filed a chargesheet against a resident of Samba district in connection with an alleged Rs 7.92 lakh bank loan fraud involving forgery of a No Due Certificate (NDC) and illegal transfer of a hypothecated vehicle. The chargesheet has been presented before the Court of [] The post Crime Branch Jammu Chargesheets Man in Rs 7.92 Lakh Bank Loan Fraud Case appeared first on Northlines .

Scooty rider succumbs to injuries after being hit by vehicle in Sgr

Srinagar: A 27-year-old scooty rider succumbed to his injuries after being hit by a vehicle near Ahmad Nagar in Soura on Monday late evening, officials said. An official said that at least three persons travelling on a scooty were injured after a vehicle hit them at Umarhair, Soura, on Monday. He said the injured were []

NMC Warns Students Against Fake Medical Colleges, Fraudulent Admissions

NEW DELHI, Nov 10: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has cautioned students and parents against falling prey to fake medical colleges and fraudulent admission offers, advising them to verify the authenticity and regulatory approval of institutions before seeking admission or making any payment. The advisory follows directions of the Supreme Court in an ongoing case, [] The post NMC Warns Students Against Fake Medical Colleges, Fraudulent Admissions appeared first on Northlines .