Trump berates Senate Republicans over Iran war vote after calling off bill signing
WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump berated Senate Republicans face to face on Wednesday for allowing a vote to block his war in Iran, further escalating a feud that has diverted GOP efforts to focus on election-year affordability issues and brought much of the chambers business to a halt. Invited by Florida Sen Rick Scott to speak []
J&K Police top brass joins; mourners hail arrangements
Srinagar: Top brass of Jammu and kashmir Police on Wednesday joined the traditional 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar and interacted with mourners, while thousands of devotees participated in the religious observance amid elaborate security, traffic and civic arrangements put in place by the administration. Director General of Police (DGP) J&K Nalin Prabhat remained on the []
SKUAST-Kashmir gets futuristic push
Agri-innovation lab, global vet school, intl students cell approved Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday chaired the 36th University Council Meeting of SKUAST-Kashmir, at Lok Bhavan. The meeting was attended by the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Cooperatives, Javid Ahmad Dar; Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo; Additional []
Iran President invites PM Modi to Khameneis funeral
New Delhi: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is learnt to have invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the burial ceremonies for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, diplomatic sources said on Wednesday. The funeral ceremonies will be held from July 5 to 9. There is no confirmation from New Delhi on the invitation to PM []
PM lauds smooth conduct of re-NEET
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday stressed on coordination between various departments during a Union Cabinet meeting and lauded such efforts for the smooth conduct of the NEET-UG re-exam, sources said. The prime minister cited the example of the NEET retest and stressed on coordination between various ministries while adopting a whole of []
KPs return to valley Pandits, Muslims together have larger role than govt: Mehbooba
Srinagar: PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday said Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims together have a larger role to play than the government for the displaced populations return to the valley. I think there is less of a role for the government and more of our Muslim and Pandit brothers together. We are one, we are []
Kashmirs GI QR code system earns national recognition
Tech-driven authentication system strengthens global trust in Pashmina, carpets, heritage crafts Srinagar/New Delhi: Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, has been conferred with the prestigious SKOCH Award for its innovative GI QR Code Management System, implemented through the Pashmina Testing & Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) at the Craft Development Institute (CDI) and the NABL-accredited Carpet []
Funds embezzlement case: ACB chargesheets Ex-BDO, engineer, 5 others
Srinagar: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Wednesday said it has filed a chargesheet against a former Block Development Officer (BDO), an Executive Engineer and five others for alleged embezzlement of government funds meant for developmental works in Kupwaras Lolab and Lalpora areas. In a statement, a spokesperson said the chargesheet was presented before the Court []
Army Corps Commander visits Rajouri
Reviews anti-militancy ops Jammu: General Officer Commanding of White Knight Corps Lt Gen P K Mishra on Wednesday visited Romeo Force headquarters in Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri district and reviewed the ongoing anti-militancy operations. The troops have been engaged in anti-militancy operations at various places in the border district, including Dorimal and Gambhir Mughlan forest []
Long Live Democracy: Why Remembering Freedom Matters
India's democratic ethos is deeply rooted in our civilizational traditions Fifty years since the imposition of Emergency, the nation continues to reflect upon this period which is remembered as one of the darkest chapters in India's democratic history. The objective of observance of closing ceremony of the national commemoration of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas - Long Live Democracy (Loktantra Amar Rahe) - is not merely to remember history, but to reflect on the enduring values that sustain our Republic. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar once remarked: The Constitution is not a mere lawyer's document; it is a vehicle of life, and its spirit is always the spirit of the age. Few statements capture the essence of our constitutional journey more powerfully than these words. The Constitution is not simply a legal framework that governs the affairs of the State. It is a living covenant between citizens and institutions, between rights and responsibilities, between liberty and accountability. Democracy Must Be Remembered to be Preserved India's democratic ethos is deeply rooted in our civilizational traditions. For centuries, our society nurtured institutions of consultation, collective deliberation, and public participation. It is essential to recall that Bharat did not inherit democracy - it nurtured it. From ancient sabhas and samitis to the post-independence parliamentary system, we have always believed in the collective will of the people. The Constitution transformed these traditions into a modern democratic framework while preserving the values that had sustained them through generations. The Preamble remains our constitutional compass. Justice. Liberty. Equality. Fraternity. These are not merely constitutional ideals. They are national aspirations. They guide public policy, shape institutions, and define the relationship between the State and the citizen. At the same time, history reminds us that democracy can never be taken for granted. The Emergency of 1975-77 remains one of the most significant tests faced by independent India. It demonstrated how democratic institutions can come under strain when constitutional safeguards are weakened and public freedoms are curtailed. The impact of that period extended beyond political life. It touched the everyday experiences of citizens across the country. It carried a profound human cost. These experiences serve as a powerful reminder that constitutional rights are not abstract legal principles; they are safeguards that directly shape the dignity, liberty, and everyday lives of citizens. When these rights are curtailed, it is not merely institutions that suffer - it is ordinary people, families, and communities whose freedoms and aspirations are most deeply affected. Yet the enduring lesson of that period is one of democratic resilience. The people of India demonstrated extraordinary faith in constitutional methods. Democratic processes ultimately corrected democratic distortions. Through peaceful participation and the ballot box, citizens reaffirmed the principle that sovereignty resides with the people. That remains one of the greatest strengths of Indian democracy - its ability to learn, adapt, self-correct, and emerge stronger from periods of challenge. Marking this occasion, a curated exhibition forms an important segment of the commemoration. It serves as a visual journey through one of the most challenging times in Indian democracy - presenting archival material, stories of resistance, constitutional milestones and peoples experiences during the Emergency. Another crucial element marking the occasion is a special memorial lecture - by Padma Bhushan veteran journalist and author Shri Ram Bahadur Rai - one that lends contemporary relevance to the larger theme of constitutional vigilance and democratic renewal. In contemporary times, nearly eight decades after Independence, the meaning of democracy continues to evolve. Citizens increasingly seek not only representation, but participation. Not only rights, but responsive governance. Initiatives promoting financial inclusion, grassroots participation, and citizen-centric governance have widened the reach of democratic institutions. At the same time, the responsibility of citizenship has become even more important. A strong democracy depends upon informed citizens. Today, when the world turns to India and calls her the Mother of Democracy, it is a recognition of our long civilizational journey from the dharma of ancient kings to the will of modern voters. Recovering Peoples Histories and the Living Legends of Freedom The components comprising this closing ceremony reflect this broader understanding of democracy as a living and evolving national experience. The exhibition on Digital District Repository (DDR) - a pioneering initiative launched under the commemoration of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) in the year 2021 - aims to bring to the forefront hundreds of lesser-known stories of sacrifice, courage, and public participation from every corner of the country. The Ministry of Culture has also created 10 short films pertaining to these lesser-known narratives from our freedom struggle. Together, these initiatives remind us that democracy is strengthened when constitutional values are reinforced by cultural memory, historical awareness, and a deep sense of national belonging. So far DDR has more than 19,500 narratives on the dedicated website section. Among the institutions and departments that have contributed to the DDR initiative, the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT) - an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Culture - has played an important role in documenting and curating a substantial number of stories that illuminate lesser-known dimensions of India's struggle for independence. On this occasion, we are privileged to be joined by two living freedom fighters who stand before us as living embodiments of courage, sacrifice, and service - Shri Sheshrao Laxmanrao Khot of Maharashtra joined the Hyderabad Liberation Movement as a young student; and Shri Eddula Suryanarayana Reddy from Andhra Pradesh, who began supporting the freedom movement as a child and was detained by the police at the age of eleven years. Their presence reminds us that freedom is not a distant history but a living memory. Virasat and Cultural Continuity Complementing this is 11th edition of Virasat - that celebrates the cultural traditions, artistic expressions, and shared heritage that have fostered dialogue, diversity, and social cohesion across generations. It honours the memory of Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay - freedom fighter, cultural visionary and institution-builder. The classical presentations draw upon musical traditions that have evolved through centuries of dialogue between generations, regions, and schools of thought. Indian classical music itself is a testament to the values of continuity, diversity, discipline, and creative freedom - values that are equally essential to a vibrant democracy. The presentation Enajori: Loknaad - Janjatiya Samrasta ka Swar-Sangam celebrates the rich cultural traditions of Assam and the North-East. Through its music and dance traditions representing diverse communities, it beautifully demonstrates the idea of unity in diversity, one of the foundational principles of our Republic. It reminds us that India's strength lies in its ability to accommodate multiple identities. Particularly meaningful is the special thematic presentation by the CCRT scholars, From Silence to Voice, From Darkness to Dawn. Through the language of Indian classical music, it traces the journey from fear and suppression to courage, renewal, and democratic resurgence. Another milestone in connection with the commemoration relates to the laying of the foundation stone for the Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati Kala Gurukul & Kalagram, which is designed to establish centres where Indias artistic heritage can be studied and practiced. This is inspired from the age-old tradition of the Gurukul system. Just as democratic values must be passed from one generation to the next, cultural traditions too require institutions that sustain and renew them. In line with this principle, Seva Parv shows that cultural expressions still have an impact on peoples consciousness and civic sense. Taken together, the components associated with the commemoration of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas convey a common message. They remind us that democracy is not merely a political system; it is a living tradition. It is sustained by public participation, and protected by an informed and vigilant citizenry. As we move towards the centenary of Independence in 2047, let us carry forward this spirit with renewed commitment! (The author is Union Minister for Culture & Tourism, Government of India. Courtesy: PIB)
By foregrounding South Asian exegetical traditions, Bashir not only enriches our understanding of Quranic thought but also compels us to rethink the tafsirs global history BOOK REVIEW MUHAMMAD YASEEN GADA The book investigates the common scholarly binary of traditionalist and modernist tafsir, arguing instead for continuities between pre-modern and modern Quranic thought. Kamran Bashir situates South Asian exegesis in local, colonial, and global contexts, challenging portrayals of modern interpretations as ruptures from the Islamic intellectual heritage. His attempt to explain why Muslims interpreted the Quran as they did (p. 5) is perhaps one of the profound questions modern scholars of the Quran have long struggled with and continue to do so. For instance, Johanna Pink, a professor of Islamic Studies at the Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Germany, also dealt with this issue in her recent book, Muslim Quranic Interpretations Today: Media, Genealogies and Interpretive Communities (2019), when she wrote, [b]efore asking how Muslims today are interpreting the Qurn, we should ask why they do it (p.15). Several other scholarly works also deal with modern interpretations of the Quran through other approaches and methodologies, but these studies offer significant revelations about Muslim interpretative tendencies of the Quran in the Modern context, which are commendable. The book under review is organized into eight thematic chapters, framed by a substantial introduction. Bashirs central aim is to question the assumption that modern tafsr in South Asia emerged as a radical break from pre-modern exegetical traditions. He identifies five problematic assumptions in much scholarship on modern Quranic interpretation: (1) that modern tafsr is purely a modern product disconnected from the past, (2) that it overemphasizes literalism, (3) that it excessively foregrounds the Qurans literary qualities, (4) that it relies on reason in unprecedented ways, and (5) that tafsr can be neatly categorized into rigid typologies (pp. 78). To counter these assumptions, Bashir situates South Asian exegetical practices within the intellectual, political, and religious milieu of British India. He argues that continuities between pre-modern and modern tafsr traditions are more pronounced than usually recognized. In order to explore continuities in the Quranic interpretations, Bashir delineates 1857 as a pivotal moment in the intellectual understanding of Muslim scholarship of the Quran, marking a shift from pre- to post-Mutiny exegetical traditions. Before 1857, he notes, South Asian tafsr was mostly written in Arabic, drawing heavily on classical commentaries such as of al-Bayawi (d. 1319) and al-Jalalayn (d. 1505). Moreover, key principles such as nam (textual coherence) and rab-i ayat (interconnectedness of verses) are emphasized, while mystical interpretations and anaf legal frameworks shape much exegetical writing even before modern times. Bashir underscores that many interpretive techniques later considered modern were already visible in these pre-modern works (pp. 2324). He also highlights the intellectual legacy of Shah Wali Allah (17031762), whose reflections on Quranic sciences influenced debates on naskh (abrogation), asbab al-nuzul (occasions of revelation), and mutashabihat into the modern era. Post-1857 tafsr, Bashir shows, was deeply shaped simultaneously by colonial encounters, missionary polemics, Orientalist critiques, intra-Muslim theological disputes, and Hindu reformist challenges (pp. 4367). Bashir situates South Asiantafsrwithin the broader global currents of Islamic revivalism, reformist thought, pan-Islamism, and anti-colonial resistance, demonstrating how these movements influenced Quranic hermeneutics in the region. Despite these evolving contextual pressures, he contends that Muslim scholarly responsesmanifested in commentaries and translationsretained strong continuities with pre-colonial exegetical methodologies. Notably, the advent of print technology played a pivotal role in facilitating the mass production and dissemination oftafsirworks, particularly in Urdu, thereby democratizing access to Quranic interpretation and reshaping religious discourse in colonial India. Against this backdrop, Bashir examines what he called as Quran Projects of three key figures: Sayyid Ahmad Khan (d. 1898), Ashraf Ali Thanawi (d. 1943), and Hamid al-Din Farahi (d. 1930). Sayyid Ahmad Khan is presented as both rooted in tradition and innovatively responding to modern intellectual challenges. His commentary sought to reconcile revelation with science and reason, reinterpreting terms like malak (angel) as abilities, and reading Adams creation metaphorically. Bashir stresses Khans continuity with classical tafsr but acknowledges his bold wholesale revisiting of the exegetical heritage (p. 94), which many considered radical deviation from mainstream interpretative Quranic thought. Ashraf Ali Thanawis Bayn al-Qurn is described as a firmly traditionalist work that upheld principles like nam, rab, asbb al-nuzl, and naskh. Unlike Khan, Thanawi rejected non-traditionalist paths, though he still adapted his tafsr to address modern concerns. Bashir portrays him as bridging past and present without compromising orthodoxy. Hamd al-Dn Farahi advanced a distinctive hermeneutic centered on nam, intertextuality, and rigorous philology. His reinterpretation of Srah al-Tn, in which al-tn and al-zaytn symbolized sacred geographies rather than fruits, illustrates his philological method (pp. 184185). Bashir frames Farahis marginalization of adth as less radical than it may appear, although this claim is debatable. Farahis influence on Amin Ahsan Islahi (1904-1997) and Javed Ahmad Ghamidi (b. 1952) underscores his enduring impact. Through these case studies, Bashir demonstrates that South Asian tafsr was not a rupture but a dynamic interplay of tradition, adaptation, and contextual responses. The juxtaposition of Khan, Thanawi, and Farahi is particularly effective. By pairing Khans rationalist hermeneutics with Thanawis traditionalism and Farahis philological rigour, Bashir highlights the interpretive diversity of South Asian Quranic projects. That said, certain claims invite critique. Bashirs effort to situate Sayyid Ahmad Khan within classical heritage is not entirely convincing. Khans radical reinterpretations of many Quranic verses and words, such as angels, Adam (AS), and miracles, strain continuity. Bashirs assertion that Khan was deeply rooted in his tradition (p. 95) underplays rupture. Likewise, Bashir arguably minimizes Farahis radical interpretative approach. His reliance on philology and scepticism toward adith mark a notable departure from mainstream tafsir tradition. To claim this was far from being radical (p. 190) overlooks the disagreement around Farahis hermeneutics, later reflected in debates over Islahi and Ghamidi. In a broader perspective, the interpretive methodologies of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and the Farahi school, indeed, represent a critical departure from classical tafsr, rooted in principles that are fundamentally at odds with the traditional exegetical legacy. Khans framework was built upon a radical triad: believing the law of firah as a universal and unchangeable truth, boldly rejecting the understanding of the Quran inherited by the Muslims, and declaring hadiths that conflicted with this rationalist reading as unreliable. While the Farahi school adopted a more nuanced tone, it was noticeably influenced by this foundational approach. The shared tendency to explain miracles through natural causesdespite formal differencesand the similarities in handling specific Quranic verses like Surah al-Tin (chapter 104) and the uruf Muqaaat (disjointed letters appearing at the beginning of certain Quranic chapters) reveal, in many instances, a common interpretative methodology between Farahi and Khan. In essence, both schools position a rationalist, firah-based framework as the ultimate arbiter of scripture, thereby re-formulating, rather than continuing, the traditional hermeneutic tradition. Their work, therefore, must be classified as a distinctly modern enterprise in Quranic interpretation. Moreover, Bashirs analysis enters a well-established scholarly debate concerning modernitys impact ontafsr. He aligns his work against the rupture thesis, which he notes is prevalent in studies of modern Islam. He further supports this by citing Johanna Pinks earlier scholarship, which described the late 19th century as a rupture and a radical departure from the tradition of Quranic exegesis (pp. 215-216). However, this engagement with Pinks work falls short. In her more recent study (2019),Johanna Pink notably refines this position, asserting that while significant transformations and innovations occurred, but no clear dividing line between premodern and modern exegesis can be drawn and thus there was never a complete rupture (p. 38) between the periods. The omission of Pinks latest work, though published before Bashirs book; ignoring the Quranic projects of other schools of thought in South Asia leaves a notable gap in the books engagement with contemporary historiography on modern Quranic interpretation. That said, Bashirs analysis is informed by his methodological and intellectual training and alignment with a well-known European revisionist tradition of Quranic studies, which explicitly explains Bashirs drive to deconstruct binaries like traditionalist/modernist and to emphasise hermeneutical continuities. Consequently, this suggests his effort to normalise figures like Khan and Farahiby downplaying their radical breaks. However, this same lens can lead to a relative marginalisation of the internal theological perspectives that often defined these exegetes as radical within their own tradition. Despite these critiques, The Quran in South Asia is a richly researched and thought-provoking contribution to Quranic studies and South Asian intellectual history. This volume will be of particular interest to scholars of Quranic hermeneutics, Islamic intellectual history, and colonial South Asia. By foregrounding South Asian exegetical traditions, Bashir not only enriches our understanding of Quranic thought but also compels us to rethink the tafsirs global history. (The Author is an Assistant Professor of Islamic Studies at the Higher Education Department, Jammu and Kashmir; he can be reached at: myyaseenm@gmail.com)
Battle of Karbala: A Timeless Legacy of Sacrifice, Justice and Humanity
The tragedy of Karbala continues to inspire millions with its enduring message of truth, patience, compassion and standing firmly against injustice The Battle of Karbala remains one of the most profound and emotionally significant events in Islamic history. More than fourteen centuries later, its message continues to inspire millions of people across the world, transcending sectarian, cultural and geographical boundaries. The tragedy of Karbala is not remembered merely as a historical battle fought in the deserts of Iraq in 680 CE; rather, it is seen as a timeless symbol of courage, justice, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to truth. The battle took place on the 10th day of Muharram in the year 61 Hijri near the banks of the Euphrates River in Karbala, present-day Iraq. At the heart of the event was Imam Hussain (AS), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who stood against oppression and injustice despite knowing the immense hardships and sacrifices that awaited him and his small group of companions. Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) chose principles over power and truth over compromise. His stand was not driven by personal ambition or worldly gain, but by a deep sense of moral responsibility. Historians and scholars across generations have viewed Karbala as a struggle to preserve ethical values, human dignity and justice in society. One of the most powerful aspects of Karbala is the extraordinary courage displayed by Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. Despite being heavily outnumbered and facing severe deprivation, including lack of water in the scorching desert heat, they refused to surrender their principles. Their patience, resilience and faith under extreme hardship transformed Karbala into an enduring moral lesson for humanity. The sacrifices made in Karbala were immense. Members of Hazrat Imam Hussains (AS) family, close relatives and loyal companions laid down their lives. Yet the spirit of Karbala teaches that material strength alone cannot define victory. True victory lies in standing for justice even in the face of overwhelming odds. The message of Karbala continues to hold deep relevance even in modern times. It teaches humanity to uphold truth regardless of circumstances, to resist injustice peacefully and courageously, and to remain patient during hardship. Karbala reminds people that silence in the face of oppression weakens society, while moral courage strengthens it. Another important lesson of Karbala is compassion and humanity. Even amid suffering, Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) upheld dignity, kindness and ethical conduct. The tragedy teaches the values of sacrifice for the greater good, helping the needy and standing beside the oppressed. For Muslims around the world, Muharram is therefore not merely a period of mourning, but also a time for reflection, compassion and self-accountability. The remembrance of Karbala encourages people to examine their own conduct and ask whether they stand with truth, fairness and humanity in their daily lives. The message of Karbala also carries universal relevance beyond religion. It speaks to all societies about the importance of resisting injustice, protecting human dignity and standing firm against oppression. Leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi openly acknowledged being inspired by Imam Hussains sacrifice and perseverance. Gandhi once remarked that he learned from Hussain how to achieve victory while remaining oppressed. Another enduring lesson from Karbala is the importance of patience and moral character during adversity. Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) demonstrated dignity and compassion even in the most difficult moments. Historical accounts highlight how he treated others with kindness and upheld ethical conduct despite the suffering endured by his camp. The role of women in Karbala also remains deeply significant. Hazrat Zainab (AS), the sister of Imam Hussain (AS), displayed immense courage and strength after the tragedy. Her resilience and powerful voice ensured that the message of Karbala reached future generations. Her example continues to inspire women across the world with lessons of patience, dignity and leadership. Karbala further reminds humanity about the dangers of division, intolerance and misuse of authority. The values associated with Karbala truthfulness, sacrifice, honesty, courage and compassion remain essential for building peaceful and just communities. In Kashmir and many other parts of the world, Muharram processions and gatherings reflect not only grief and remembrance but also social solidarity and collective reflection. Sabeels offering water and food, charity initiatives and acts of public service during Muharram symbolise the humanitarian spirit associated with Imam Hussains teachings. Importantly, the message of Karbala promotes unity, peace and mutual respect. Scholars repeatedly emphasise that the true spirit of Muharram lies in understanding the ethical and humanitarian lessons of sacrifice and righteousness rather than focusing on divisions. Today, in a world often marked by conflict, inequality and moral uncertainty, the lessons of Karbala remain deeply relevant. The battle teaches that individuals must never lose hope while standing for justice and humanity. It reminds people that moral courage can leave a lasting impact far greater than worldly power. More than 1,400 years have passed since the sands of Karbala witnessed one of historys greatest sacrifices, yet the message continues to resonate across generations. The name of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) remains synonymous with dignity, truth and resistance against injustice. Karbala ultimately stands as a timeless reminder that principles should never be abandoned for convenience and that humanitys highest values are preserved through sacrifice, patience and unwavering faith in truth. That is why the message of Karbala continues to live not only in history books or religious gatherings, but also in the hearts of millions who see in it a universal call for justice, compassion and moral courage. (Author is the Senior Special Correspondent at Rising Kashmir and can be reached at: abid@risingkashmir.com)
Deputy CM Assures Resolution of Public Issues in Udhampur
Udhampur, June 24: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Wednesday conducted a public outreach-cum-grievance redress camp at Government Higher Secondary School, Majalta, to interact with the local residents, hear their issues and ensure timely redress of the same. During the camp, former PRI members and local residents projected several demands, including establishment of a Trauma Centre at Manwal, augmentation of drinking water supply, construction and upgradation of roads, construction of ManwalPingla Mata road, inclusion of left-out beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, resolution of issues concerning the tribal community and other development-related matters. While responding to the demands, the Deputy Chief Minister assured the public that all their genuine issues would be addressed in a time-bound manner. Several grievances were resolved on the spot by issuing necessary directions to the concerned officers. He also instructed the officers to organise awareness camps to sensitise the people about various government welfare schemes and initiatives so that the eligible beneficiaries can avail the benefits. The Deputy Chief Minister said that the primary objective of conducting such outreach programmes is to resolve day-to-day public issues at the grassroots level through direct interaction with the people. He asked the officers to work with dedication and sincerity to address the genuine public grievances within their respective departments. Reiterating the government's unwavering commitment to people-centric governance, he said that the administration led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah remains is focusing on delivering good governance and addressing the public concerns on priority. He directed the concerned officers to record all demands and ensure their prompt redress. He further instructed the departments to take government policies, welfare schemes and developmental programmes to the doorstep of the people and ensure their effective implementation. The Deputy Chief Minister also acknowledged the support of the Government of India, led by the Prime Minister, for providing substantial funds to Jammu and Kashmir for developmental works, which, he said, are contributing significantly to the region's progress. Later, the Deputy Chief Minister also conducted an on-site inspection of the ongoing development works in Majalta, Udhampur to review progress and ensure quality execution. He had exclusive interaction with the officials and the residents regarding the welfare and development issues concerning the area.
UT Setup Inadequate to Address Regions Challenges:NC
MP Chowdry Ramzan slams delay in Statehood restoration Srinagar, June, 24: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Additional General Secretary and Rajya Sabha MP Chowdry Muhammad Ramzan Wednesday raised concerns over the continued delay in restoring Jammu and Kashmirs statehood, calling it a breach of democratic mandate and constitutional assurances. Speaking at the party headquarters Nawa-e-Subha, Srinagar, Choudry Ramzan said the prolonged delay has effectively reduced the elected setup to a subordinate administrative arrangement undermining the political agency of the people who, he noted, turned out in large numbers in support of full fledged democracy. He said that if Jammu and Kashmir is truly to be treated at par with other units of the Union then the continued downgrade of its political status is indefensible. A region that once held full statehood, with its own constitutional identity and institutional depth, is now being governed through a diluted framework that ignores its complexity, diversity, and ground realities, he said, stressing that the present arrangement is structurally inadequate to address the regions layered challenges. He further asserted that promises of restoring statehood made in Parliament and reiterated in public forums must not be reduced to political rhetoric. He urged the Centre to act without further delay, warning that continued inaction erodes trust in constitutional commitments.
Bukhari Condoles Demise in Shah Family
Srinagar, June 24: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Wednesday visited the residence of late Ghulam Mohiuddin Shah at Magarmal Bagh in Srinagar and offered condolences on the demise of Shahs wife. Accompanied by a delegation of party leaders, Bukhari met the bereaved family and expressed sympathy with them, particularly with the sons of the deceasedDr. Imtiyaz Shah, Ishfaq Shah and former MLA Irfan Shah. During the visit, the delegation prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and expressed solidarity with the family during their time of grief. According to a party statement, Bukhari also prayed for strength and patience for the bereaved family to bear the loss. Several party leaders accompanied the Apni Party president during the condolence visit.
Govt Reviews Transport, Supply Plans for SANJY
Minister stresses coordination for smooth pilgrimage Anantnag, June 24: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Science & Technology, ARI & Trainings, and Youth Services & Sports, Satish Sharma, today convened a review meeting at Pahalgam to take stock of the preparedness and arrangements of transport services, supply of essential commodities, other critical services for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026. The meeting was attended by senior officers from the district administration and line departments, including Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Pahalgam, Deputy Director FCS&CA, Assistant Directors FCS&CA Anantnag and Kulgam, Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOs) of Anantnag and Kulgam, officers of the Motor Vehicles Department, Assistant Executive Engineers of PDD and PHE besides other concerned officers associated with the transport regulation, essential supplies and service delivery during the Yatra period. The review meeting focused on the preparedness of departments entrusted with ensuring smooth transport operations, uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, consumer facilitation and provision of other critical services for successful conduct of the annual pilgrimage. The Minister took a department-wise assessment of the arrangements being made and sought updates on the action plan, preparedness timeline and field-level coordination mechanisms. During the meeting, the Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir, briefed the Minister on the transportation arrangements being put in place for smooth movement of pilgrims and service providers associated with the Yatra. The Minister was informed about the regulation of passenger transport, availability and deployment of vehicles, route management, traffic facilitation and coordination between the Motor Vehicles Department and local administration to ensure seamless mobility along the Pahalgam axis during the Yatra period. The Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department also briefed the Minister on the availability and supply position of essential commodities required during the Yatra. Reviewing the preparedness of the departments under his charge, Satish Sharma stressed that the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is one of the most significant annual pilgrimages and requires meticulous planning, timely execution and close coordination among all concerned departments. He said that the success of the Yatra depends not only on major infrastructural and logistical arrangements but also on the efficiency of routine public service delivery, particularly in the areas of transportation, essential supplies and consumer support. The Minister directed the concerned officers to ensure that all arrangements relating to transportation, essential supplies and service facilitation are completed well in advance so that the pilgrimage proceeds in a smooth, orderly and hassle-free manner. He stressed that availability of adequate transport, uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, proper regulation of passenger movement, and responsive consumer support systems are central to ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for the yatris. He instructed the Transport and Motor Vehicles authorities to maintain strict oversight over the movement and regulation of passenger vehicles, ensure availability of sufficient public transport and keep all required systems in place for smooth mobility of pilgrims.
Assembly Panel Stresses Protection of MLAs Privileges
Chief Secretary asked to ensure compliance Srinagar, June, 24: A formal meeting of the Committee on Privileges of the Legislative Assembly was held on Wednesday at the Assembly Secretariat under the chairmanship of MLA Justice (Retd) Hasnain Masoodi. Legislators Showkat Hussain Ganie, Khurshied Ahmad, Zafar Ali Khatana, Vijay Kumar, Rajeev Kumar along with officials from Assembly Secretariat were present in the meeting. The Chairman highlighted the significance of the Committee on Privileges, describing it as an important committee of the House entrusted with safeguarding the privileges, dignity and authority of the Members of the Legislative Assembly. He emphasized the need for expeditious disposal of the pending cases before the committee and called for timely redress of all matters referred to it. The members deliberated in detail on various issues concerning the functioning of the committee. They underscored the importance of strengthening its role in upholding the privileges of the House. They also offered valuable suggestions for improving the effectiveness and functioning of the committee. The Committee instructed the Chief Secretary to ensure strict adherence to and protection of the privileges of the Members of the Legislative Assembly. It emphasized that any breach of privilege of a MLA shall be viewed seriously and that necessary measures shall be taken to prevent such instances. The Committee also took up three privilege motions referred to it and issued notices in all the cases. The concerned officials have been directed to remain present before the committee during its next meeting scheduled for July 8, to facilitate the examination and disposal of the matters. The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the committee's commitment to safeguard the privileges of the House and ensure prompt redress of all pending cases.
Sakeena Pushes Timely Completion of Health Infrastructure
Reviews SSH, GMC and Pahalgam hospital projects Srinagar, June 24: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on wednesday reviewed the progress on construction of OPD Complex of Super Speciality Hospital (SSH) Srinagar and Multi Facility Centre (MFC) of Government Medical College Srinagar as well as additional 50-bedded hospital building of SDH Pahalgam here at Civil Secretariat. MLA Pahalgam Altaf Ahmad Wani; Principal GMC Srinagar; Director Health Services Kashmir; Director Finance/Director Planning Health and Medical Education and other senior officers of health and medical education department were also present in the meeting. During the review meeting, the Minister took stock of the progress achieved on each project. She directed the concerned officers and executing agencies to expedite the pace of work and ensure completion of all pending civil works within the stipulated timelines. Emphasizing accountability in execution of public projects, the Minister said that these initiatives are being undertaken with public funds and are aimed at improving the healthcare services for the people. She asserted that any delay in completion of such projects adversely affects the public welfare and, therefore, must be avoided. Reviewing the construction of the 50-bedded additional building at Pahalgam, the Minister directed the concerned authorities to finalize the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and commence the remaining works without delay. She observed that Pahalgam is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir and also serves as the base camp for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. She stressed the need for a well-equipped healthcare facility in the area to cater to both residents, visitors as well as devotees. The Minister set a target of March 2027 for completion of the hospital building and directed the concerned agencies to ensure that the facility is made fully functional and operational. Earlier, Director Health Services Kashmir informed the meeting that the project involves an estimated cost of Rs 19.90 crore, out of which civil works worth Rs 12.40 crore have already been tendered. He added that the hospital, once operational will provide a range of essential healthcare services and facilities to the people of the area. While reviewing the Multi-Tasking Facility Centre (MFC) of GMC Srinagar, the Minister directed that all civil works be completed by the end of July 2026. She also instructed the concerned officers to pursue necessary approvals from the Government of India for installation of additional facilities and infrastructure required for the centre. Reviewing the progress of works related to the Super Speciality Hospital and other healthcare infrastructure projects, the Minister reiterated that delays in the healthcare sector are unacceptable and called for close monitoring of all ongoing projects. She directed the Health Department to maintain regular oversight of project implementation. She asked for ensuring that infrastructure is developed strictly in accordance with healthcare requirements and approved standards. She also stressed the need for proper planning, coordination and adherence to guidelines in the execution of all health sector projects to ensure timely completion and optimal utilization of resources.
Forest Rights Act Cases Must Follow Prescribed Norms: Govt
Minister Rana calls for collective efforts to ensure effective implementation of public welfare initiatives Anantnag, June 24: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana on Wednesday reviewed the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) in Anantnag and directed officials to strictly follow prescribed procedures while processing related cases. Observing concerns over implementation, he emphasized the need for due diligence and adherence to established norms to ensure transparency and protect the rights of all stakeholders. The Minister chaired a detailed review meeting to assess the status of developmental works and public welfare initiatives being implemented in Dooru constituency. MLA Dooru, Ghulam Ahmad Mir, MLA Anantnag West, Abdul Majeed Bhat and district officers of Jal Shakti, Forest and Tribal Affairs Departments besides other concerned departments attended the meeting. The Minister reviewed the progress of various developmental projects being executed in the constituency and directed the officers to expedite the ongoing works while ensuring quality and adherence to timelines. During the meeting, the Minister announced the establishment of an Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Ahlan Breng, saying the initiative would significantly enhance the access to quality education for students from tribal and other marginalized communities in the area. Noting that Anantnag district has a sizable tribal population, Javed Rana emphasized that it is the responsibility of the Government to ensure better educational facilities for tribal and underprivileged sections of society. He said that education is a key driver for socio-economic transformation and empowerment, and reiterated the Government's commitment to strengthen educational infrastructure in tribal-dominated and remote areas to ensure inclusive and equitable development. The Minister said that the Government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah remains steadfast in its commitment towards the welfare and upliftment of tribal communities. It is taking concerted measures to provide quality education and improved learning opportunities to students belonging to these sections, he added. Reviewing the functioning of Jal Shakti, Forest and Tribal Affairs Departments, Javed Rana called for enhanced inter-departmental coordination to ensure optimum utilisation of resources and effective implementation of developmental programmes. The meeting also reviewed the status of flood protection and irrigation-related works being executed in Dooru constituency, with emphasis on timely completion of ongoing projects and strengthening infrastructure to safeguard the agricultural land and ensure efficient irrigation facilities. Javed Rana directed the officers to implement all decisions and instructions in letter and spirit and maintain transparency, accountability and efficiency in governance. The meeting also discussed various constituency-specific developmental issues and strategies for their early resolution. Senior officers apprised the Minister of the progress achieved under various schemes and programmes in Dooru constituency.
IUST Holds HR Conclave to Bridge Academia-Industry Gap
Srinagar, June 24: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, on Wednesday organised the HR Conclave 2026, bringing together leading human resource professionals, industry experts, policymakers, academicians and students to deliberate on workforce readiness and emerging industry expectations. Organised by the Centre for Career Counselling and Placements (CCCP) in collaboration with Industry Connect under the aegis of the Dean Outreach, the conclave was themed Youth, Skills and Employment: Bridging Academia and Industry for Sustainable Careers. The inaugural session was chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo and attended by Dr. Subi Chaturvedi, Global Senior Vice President and Chief Public Policy & Corporate Affairs Officer at InMobi, and Harish Mahadevan, Vice President-HR, OneCell AI Inc., as guests of honour. In his keynote address, Prof. Romshoo underscored the crucial role of universities in preparing students for future opportunities through innovation, entrepreneurship and stronger industry engagement. He said educational institutions must nurture talent, promote innovation and build meaningful partnerships that transform education into opportunities and impact. Speaking on the transformative influence of technology on careers and economies, Dr. Chaturvedi highlighted the need to equip young people with relevant skills to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth. She said platforms such as the HR Conclave help strengthen industry-academia collaboration and prepare students for the rapidly evolving world of work. Harish Mahadevan shared insights into changing workplace dynamics and talent requirements in an increasingly technology-driven environment. He noted that future success would depend on a combination of technical expertise, adaptability, creativity and a commitment to lifelong learning. Addressing the gathering, Registrar Prof. Shameem A. Shah reiterated IUSTs commitment to enhancing student employability and professional excellence. He stressed that higher education institutions must focus not only on academic achievement but also on developing competencies that support career growth and employability. Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, emphasized the importance of aligning academic programmes with evolving industry demands. He observed that sustained industry engagement enables universities to remain responsive to emerging trends and equip students with future-ready skills. A major highlight of the conclave was two parallel panel discussions on Industry Expectations and Workforce Readiness, which featured senior representatives from leading national and regional organisations. The event witnessed participation from a wide spectrum of organisations representing sectors such as technology, telecommunications, healthcare, hospitality, finance, manufacturing and consulting. Among the participating organisations were InMobi Global, Rising Kashmir, OneCell AI Inc., TechArc, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII J&K), Kashmir Trade Forum (KTF), Reliance Jio, Kyber Group, Arco Group, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Taj Group of Hotels, FICCI FLO, Paras Hospitals, Ujala Cygnus Hospitals, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa Gulmarg, Ernst & Young (EY), Apexure, BQE Software Pvt. Ltd., Kyber Industries Pvt. Ltd., Maxpro Exhibitions, iQuasar Software Solutions, J&K Bank Ltd. and SJT BioTech Innovations Pvt. Ltd. Earlier, Dean Outreach Dr. Ruheela Hassan, in her welcome address, highlighted the significance of stronger academia-industry linkages in preparing students for the changing employment landscape. The inaugural session was moderated by Dr. Taiba Sahaf and Dr. Hajra Manzoor of the School of Business Studies, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. Parvaiz A. Mir, Dean, School of Business Studies. The conclave was coordinated by Dr. Zahoor A. Ganie, Head, CCCP, and Dr. Asif Naqashbandi, Coordinator, Industry Connect. The event concluded with an interactive networking session, enabling direct engagement between industry representatives, university leadership, faculty and students, and paving the way for future collaborations in training, internships, placements, research and industry partnerships.
Punjab workers join Muharram procession in Srinagar
Participants say remembrance of Karbala unites people across regions Srinagar, Jun 24: The 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar witnessed participation from a group of mourners from Punjab, who remembered the martyrs of Karbala along the traditional procession route through Lal Chowk. The group, currently working in Budgam district, said they had travelled to Srinagar to take part in the Muharram observances and pay tribute to Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. They organized their own circle of mourners during the Muharram procession today from Guru Bazar-Dalgate to commemorate the martyrs of Karbala and marched alongside thousands of participants during the procession. Members of the group said this was the second consecutive year that they had participated in the Muharram procession in Srinagar. We have been working in Budgam for some time and last year we joined the procession for the first time. The experience was deeply moving, and we decided to participate again this year, said one of the mourners from Punjab. The participants said the remembrance of Karbala transcends geographical boundaries and brings together people from different regions through a shared message of sacrifice, justice and humanity. We may belong to Punjab, but the message of Imam Hussain (AS) belongs to the entire world. Participating in the procession here gives us an opportunity to express our devotion and solidarity with fellow mourners, another participant said. The group appreciated the arrangements made for the procession and said they felt welcomed by the local community. Their presence drew the attention of many participants, who viewed it as a reflection of the universal appeal of the message of Karbala and the growing participation of devotees from different parts of the country in Muharram observances in Kashmir.
Feared Dead as Vehicle Falls Into River in Drass
One Body Recovered, Search Continues Srinagar, June 24: A tragic road accident occurred near Marpochoo Bridge in the Drass area on Tuesday evening when a Fronx vehicle (Registration No. LA01/4920) travelling from Sonamarg to Kargil reportedly plunged into a river, leaving four occupants, including two young women, feared dead. According to sources, the incident came to light after family members lost contact with the occupants. While three mobile phones were found switched off, one phone continued to ring without being answered, prompting relatives to alert the police. Drass Police, civil administration officials, and rescue teams rushed to the spot and discovered tyre marks leading towards the river. During the search operation, the body of a 35-year-old man, identified as Agha Syed Baqir, son of Syed Muslim of Linkerchey, was recovered from the riverbank. The three remaining missing persons have been identified as Sajjad Hussain (26), son of Haji Mahmood Hussain; Hasina Bano, daughter of Mahmood Hussain; and Sigra Bano (23), daughter of Mohammad Ali, all residents of Gato Linkerchey. Rescue efforts continued until 2 a.m. but were suspended due to darkness and resumed on Wednesday morning. Police sources said he and Deputy Commissioner Drass Imtiaz Ahmad Kacho are personally supervising the operation. However, strong river currents have hampered efforts to trace the vehicle and the missing persons. A case has been registered under FIR No. 20/2026 under Section 281 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Meanwhile, in a separate incident in the Barnabug Poshkar area of Kangan in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district, a man allegedly ended his life by jumping into the hydro power canal. Following information from family members, Kangan police and SDRF teams launched a search operation and recovered the body after strenuous efforts. After completion of legal formalities, the body was handed over to the family. Police have registered a case and initiated further investigation.
Gulmarg Gondola Set to Resume Today
Srinagar, June 24: After remaining closed for more than a month, the Gulmarg Gondola is likely to resume operations today, bringing much needed relief and excitement to tourists, local residents, and businesses associated with Kashmir's tourism industry. The reopening of the world famous cable car service comes as welcome news for thousands of visitors who travel to Gulmarg every year, particularly during the summer season. For many tourists, a trip to Gulmarg feels incomplete without a ride on the Gondola, which offers breathtaking views of lush meadows, pine forests, and the majestic Afarwat mountains. Officials associated with the Cable Car Corporation said preparations for the resumption of services have been completed and that the corporation is hopeful of restarting operations after necessary procedures were carried out following the recent technical issue. The Gondola service was suspended after a technical glitch left nearly 300 tourists stranded mid air. All passengers were rescued safely, and the government subsequently ordered an inquiry into the incident. Officials said the inquiry committee has submitted its report, clearing the way for the expected reopening. The shutdown had a visible impact on tourist activity in Gulmarg. Local hoteliers, restaurant owners, guides, pony operators, and shopkeepers reported a decline in visitors during the closure period. Many tourists who arrived in the famous hill resort expressed disappointment upon learning that the Gondola service was not operational. Local residents say there has been a strong demand from both tourists and tourism stakeholders for the reopening of the cable car service. They believe the return of Gondola operations will help revive business activity and restore the vibrant atmosphere that Gulmarg is known for during the peak tourist season. Tourists visiting Gulmarg over the past few weeks have also been eagerly seeking updates about the reopening. Many visitors said the Gondola ride remains one of the biggest attractions in Kashmir and a major reason behind their visit to the hill station. With summer tourism currently at its peak, the expected resumption of Gondola services is likely to provide a significant boost to the local economy. Stakeholders are hopeful that visitor numbers will increase in the coming days, benefiting hundreds of families whose livelihoods depend on tourism.
Govt Pushes Reuse of Treated Wastewater
Srinagar, Jammu to explore dedicated treated wastewater networks Srinagar, June 24: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Wednesday reviewed measures to promote reuse of treated wastewater and strengthen sustainable water management under the Jal Hi AMRIT initiative of AMRUT 2.0. A meeting of the Water Resource Recovery Cell (WRRC) was held under the chairpersonship of Commissioner/Secretary, Housing and Urban Development, Mandeep Kaur, to discuss strategies for water circularity, resource recovery and wider use of treated wastewater for non-potable purposes. During the meeting, officials informed that J&K is implementing AMRUT 2.0 through water supply, sewerage and water body rejuvenation projects. Under its Jal Hi AMRIT component, aimed at upgrading Sewerage Treatment Plants through incentive-based funding, Jammu and Kashmir has secured incentives worth Rs 10.50 crore so far. The government has initiated installation of SCADA systems, tertiary treatment facilities and other interventions to improve wastewater treatment quality and encourage reuse. The meeting was informed that the Water Resource Recovery Cell has been constituted to facilitate inter-departmental coordination for effective utilisation of treated wastewater. Members include representatives from Agriculture, Horticulture, Industries and Commerce, Municipalities, Jal Shakti, Irrigation and Flood Control, J&K Pollution Control Committee, Forest Department and industrial bodies. Chairing the meeting, Mandeep Kaur stressed that treated water meeting prescribed standards should be utilised for irrigation of parks and gardens, industrial processes, construction activities, automobile cleaning, kitchen gardens and reducing dependence on potable water for non-drinking purposes. She emphasised the need for robust quality-testing mechanisms to ensure treated water complies with prescribed standards before reuse. The Jal Shakti Department and Urban Environmental Engineering Department (UEED) were advised to explore projects for developing an exclusive network for supply of treated wastewater to parks and gardens in Srinagar. A working group was also proposed for Jammu to prepare a comprehensive plan for productive use of treated wastewater. The meeting was attended by senior officials from various departments, including JKPCC, municipal corporations, agriculture, horticulture, industries and engineering wings.
Govt Orders Inclusion of Eligible PMAY-G Beneficiaries
Officials told to rectify wrongful exclusions , address grievances on priority Srinagar, June 23: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has directed officials across all districts to ensure that genuinely eligible beneficiaries are not excluded from the final beneficiary list under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) 2.0 and to address all related grievances on a priority basis. In a communication issued to the Directors of Rural Development Departments of Jammu and Kashmir divisions, Secretary to Government, Mohammad Aijaz, emphasized the need for strict adherence to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, regarding the finalization of the Permanent Wait List (PWL) under PMAY-G 2.0. The directive follows reports and representations from several districts highlighting concerns over the exclusion of deserving households from the final beneficiary list. According to the communication, some eligible beneficiaries were reportedly rejected or deleted due to inadvertent errors and deficiencies during the survey and verification process. The Secretary has asked all Assistant Commissioners Development (ACDs) and Block Development Officers (BDOs) to ensure that the deletion of ineligible households is carried out strictly in accordance with the Ministry's guidelines issued vide D.O. No. M-12018/02/2019-RH(M&T) (Part) (e-390818) dated May 13, 2026. Officials have also been instructed to identify, examine and rectify cases where genuinely eligible beneficiaries may have been wrongly rejected or removed from the list. Furthermore, all grievances and public representations regarding exclusion from the PMAY-G 2.0 beneficiary list are to be addressed promptly, with corrective measures taken wherever necessary. The government has warned that any omission, rejection or deletion of an eligible beneficiary resulting from negligence, inadequate verification, lack of due diligence or administrative oversight will be viewed seriously. The officers or officials responsible for such lapses will be held personally accountable and may face action under the relevant rules. The communication stresses that the matter should be treated as Most Urgent and accorded top priority to ensure that no deserving household is deprived of the benefits envisaged under the flagship rural housing scheme.
Ladakh: 1 dead, 3 missing after vehicle falls into Drass river; search operation underway
Drass , June 24: One person died and three others went missing after a vehicle met with an accident near Marpochoo in Drass and plunged into the Drass River, police said on Wednesday. According to Drass Police, four people were travelling in the vehicle when the accident occurred. The deceased has been identified as Agha Syed Baqir (35), son of Syed Muslim and a resident of Lankerchay. His body was recovered from Thanda Morh in the Chowkiyal area. The three missing persons have been identified as Sajad Hussain (26), son of Haji Abbas and a resident of Lankerchay; Hasina Banoo (25), daughter of Mehmood Hussain and a resident of Gato Lankerchay; and Sogra Banoo (23), daughter of Mohd Ali and a resident of Gato Lankerchay. Police said search and rescue operations along the river are underway to locate the three missing people.Further details are awaited. (ANI)
Iran says nuclear site inspections only after final deal with US
Tehran [Iran], June 24 : Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi on Wednesday rejected comments made by the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), asserting that inspections of Tehran's nuclear sites would only be feasible following the final US-Iran deal. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi made the remarks on the social media platform X in response to statements made earlier in the day by the United Nations nuclear watchdog chief, Rafael Grossi, in Japan, indicating that UN inspectors would soon visit Iranian nuclear enrichment facilities. Dismissing these claims, Gharibabadi wrote, No meeting was held with Grossi in Switzerland, despite his request. Nor is there any plan for access to the facilities that were attacked or to nuclear material. Elaborating on Tehran's position, the Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister asserted that granting UN inspectors entry to compromised atomic facilities and substances will solely be examined and resolved within the framework of a final agreement with Washington. He stated, These issues will be reviewed and decided only within the framework of a final agreement and as a result of practical action by the other side to end all sanctions and other measures. Maintaining that the resumption of UN monitoring remains contingent upon he other party's practical action in terminating all sanctions, Gharibabadi added, You cannot advance the 'stir up and take over' policy with media hype. This sharp rebuttal stands in direct contrast to Grossi's earlier briefing in Japan. Addressing journalists at a press conference at the tsunami-hit Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, the IAEA chief noted that he acknowledged the geopolitical rhetoric. I can understand political statements; they are part of the reality, but the fundamental thing I would like to remind you and draw your attention to is that there has been a Memorandum of Understanding, signed by both presidents, Grossi said. Grossi pointed out that the accord says explicitly that the nuclear activities that are going to be carried out with regard to the nuclear material facilities will be supervised by the IAEA -- in all letters. The IAEA chief further added, Obviously, to do that, we will have to inspect. Whether this happens the day after tomorrow or in one week or in 10 days, it's important, but not essential. This is going to happen. The execution of these inspections remains a vital component of the proposed diplomatic framework, which mandates that Iran's inventory of uranium must be downblended from highly enriched thresholds. The statements from Grossi represent the most definitive stance yet from the UN agency, which holds a critical role in verifying the exact status of Tehran's nuclear inventory. The verification process has faced a prolonged impasse. Following a 12-day military conflict launched by Israel against Iran in 2025, Tehran has restricted the IAEA from accessing enrichment locations. The Islamic Republic is suspected of harbouring a sufficient stockpile of uranium enriched to high levels to theoretically assemble up to 10 nuclear weapons if a decision to pursue a breakout capability is made. While Tehran has consistently maintained that its atomic ambitions are entirely peaceful, it remains the sole nation globally to enrich uranium up to 60 per cent purity without actively running a declared military weapons programme. These latest developments come amid conflicting narratives from both Washington and Tehran on Tuesday regarding the timeline and scope of the inspections. Grossi acknowledged the current diplomatic friction, describing the back-and-forth as a war of words at the moment. (ANI)
Two killed, three injured in Doda road mishap
Doda: Two persons were killed and three others injured after a vehicle met with an accident in the Malhori area of Assar tehsil in Doda district on Wednesday evening, officials said. An official said that a vehicle bearing registration number JK02DB-6037 met with an accident at Malhori on Wednesday evening. He said two occupants died []
Men, women and children joined the procession in large numbers, many of them travelling from different parts of the Valley to take part in the annual observance.
Opposition trying to defame me, says Mann; claims his fake videos being released
CHANDIGARH: Amid the video row, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday rejected allegations that the forensic report that gave a clean chit to him was fabricated and lashed out at the opposition parties, alleging that they have joined hands to defame him. Manns remarks came a day after the Haryana Police arrested two men []
NEET-UG paper leak case: Rouse Avenue Court extends custody of Kulkarni, Motegaonkar till July 8
New Delhi [India], June 24 : The Rouse Avenue court on Wednesday extended the judicial custody of accused Prahalad Kulkarni and Shivraj Raghunath Motegaonkar till July 8 in connection with the alleged NEET-UG paper leak case. The accused were produced before Vacation Judge Ruchi Agarwal Asrani after the expiry of their judicial custody. The court allowed the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) plea seeking an extension and remanded both accused to judicial custody till July 8. CBI Public Prosecutor Neetu Singh appeared for the agency and sought a 14-day extension of judicial custody for the two accused. The CBI has so far arrested Mangi Lal Biwal, Vikas Biwal, Dinesh Biwal, Yash Yadav, Shubham Khairnar, Manisha Waghmare, Prahalad Kulkarni, Dhananjay Lokhande, Manisha Mandhare, Shivraj Raghunath Motegaonkar, Manisha Sanjay Hawaldar, and Dr. Manoj Shirure in connection with the case. All of them are currently in judicial custody following questioning by the agency. Earlier, the court permitted accused Yash Yadav to appear in the rescheduled NEET-UG examination on June 21 and attend his sister's wedding in custody on June 22. The court had also rejected the regular bail plea of accused Manisha Waghmare. Yadav has been arrested in the NEET UG Paper leak case and is in judicial custody. He sought 15 days' interim bail to appear in the NEET UG Exam and to attend his sister's wedding. Vacation Judge Vishal Gogne allowed the application, directing the jail authorities to take Yash Yadav for the NEET Examination in custody on June 21. It is observed that while the applicant does face grave allegations of wrongful dissemination and trading of the confidential questions of the very examination in which he now seeks to appear, his rights as a student cannot be defeated by turning bail into punishment by denial of the opportunity to appear in the examination, vacation judge Vishal Gogne said. (ANI)
MP Er Rashid to be released on interim bail for five days to attend father's 40th-day observance
Srinagar, June 24: Baramulla Member of Parliament Er Rashid will be released on a five-day interim bail beginning Thursday to attend the 40th-day religious observance of his late father, Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, according to a party leader. The interim relief has been granted in accordance with an earlier order of the High Court, enabling the incarcerated parliamentarian to participate in the familys religious ceremony and related rituals. The observance is scheduled to take place at the familys native village of Lachh Mawer in Handwara, where special prayers will be offered in memory of the deceased. Family members, relatives, political associates, supporters and other well-wishers are expected to gather to pay their respects and offer condolences. According to the party leader, Rashid is expected to arrive in Srinagar on Thursday morning following his release. He will spend the interim bail period with his family and is likely to receive visitors from Friday afternoon onwards. No official statement was immediately available from the authorities regarding the conditions attached to the interim bail.
ACB chargesheets Ex-BDO, engineer, 5 others in funds embezzlement case
Srinagar: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Wednesday said it has filed a chargesheet against a former Block Development Officer (BDO), an Executive Engineer and five others for alleged embezzlement of government funds meant for developmental works in Kupwaras Lolab and Lalpora areas. In a statement, a spokesperson said the chargesheet was presented before the Court []
Kashmiri Pandits, Muslims together have larger role than govt for their return to valley: Mehbooba
SRINAGAR: PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday said Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims together have a larger role to play than the government for the displaced populations return to the valley. I think there is less of a role for the government and more of our Muslim and Pandit brothers together. We are one, we are []
11 India-Bound Ships Cross Hormuz Strait as Delhi Welcomes US-Iran Peace Deal
SRINAGAR: India on Tuesday welcomed the United States-Iran Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at ending months of conflict in West Asia, as the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz began easing disruptions to global energy supplies and maritime trade, reports appearing in media said. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said 11 India-bound []
SSP Anantnag Reviews Security Preparedness for Amarnath Yatra 2026
SRINAGAR: In a major step towards ensuring the safe and smooth conduct of the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anantnag, Amod Ashok Nagpure, IPS, on Wednesday, chaired a comprehensive briefing session of Zonal Officers and Sector Officers deployed for Yatra duties across the district. The meeting was convened to review overall security []
Tehran , June 24 : Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the state funeral and burial ceremonies for Ali Khamenei, the former Supreme Leader of Iran, sources said. The official invitation marks a significant diplomatic engagement following the death of the 86-year-old leader, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli airstrike on February 28. Having headed the Islamic Republic for 36 years, Khamenei was killed on the first day of the military strikes directed against Tehran. According to Iranian state media, the multi-day funeral ceremonies are scheduled to begin on July 4. The rituals will include events in Qom, a holy city south of Tehran, on July 7 and will conclude with his final burial on July 9 in his hometown, the holy city of Mashhad in northeastern Iran. While Islamic jurisprudence typically dictates that a deceased person be buried as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours, exceptions are permissible, particularly during a state of war. Speculation regarding the timeline of the final ceremonies had been mounting since February, with early reports suggesting a late June date before state media officially confirmed the July schedule. The state funeral is anticipated to draw close to 20 million mourners across Tehran, Mashhad, and Qom. A large number of foreign dignitaries, including Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, are expected to attend the ceremonies. If the projected turnout is met, it will break the record of 10 million attendees set during the 1989 funeral of the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Following the event, the late leader's 56-year-old son, Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, took charge as the Supreme Leader of Iran on March 8. However, widespread speculation continues to surround his current health and exact location, with prominent US officials, including Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth, stating that he is presently in a coma. The invite arrives amidst a cooling of geopolitical tensions. Following months of severe conflict that disrupted global energy lines and triggered a major fuel crisis, Iran and the United States have agreed to a peace framework. President Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump have separately signed digital Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), and structured, long-term peace negotiations are currently underway in Switzerland. (ANI)
Charar-e-Sharief Road Accident Victim Succumbs at SMHS Hospital
SRINAGAR: A man injured in a road accident on the ChadooraCharar-e-Sharief road earlier this month succumbed to his injuries at SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, on Wednesday, officials said. The deceased has been identified as Ghulam Rasool Khatana, son of Late Mohammad Sultan and a resident of Chelen Chunt Nar in Charar-e-Sharief, aged about 50 years. Officials []
One Rescued, Three Missing After Car Plunges Into River
SRINAGAR: One person was rescued while three others remain missing after a vehicle plunged into the Drass River near Marpoochoo in the Drass sector of Kargil district on Wednesday. Officials said a Fronx vehicle bearing registration number LA01-4920 met with an accident and fell into the river. Four persons were travelling in the vehicle at []
Man Dies After Jumping Into Hydropower Canal in Central Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A man died after allegedly jumping into a hydropower canal in the Pushkar area of Kangan in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Wednesday, officials said. The deceased has been identified as Ghulam Hassan, a resident of Pushkar, Kangan. According to reports, the man jumped into the hydropower canal, prompting local residents to alert the []
Minibus Accident in Billawar Injures Over Dozen Passengers
Kathua:An accident took place today at village Rampur on Dhar Road under the jurisdiction of Police Station Billawar, Kathua district. Officials said that a minibus bearing registration number JK21B7776 rolled down from the road, leaving over dozen passengers injured. Police and local administration teams reached the spot and shifted the injured to nearby medical facilities. []
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Pays Tribute to Imam Hussain (RA), Announces Youm-e-Ashoora Sermon at Narwara
Srinagar, June 24: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq has paid glowing tributes to the martyrs of Karbala, especially Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), for his unparalleled sacrifice in upholding the fundamental principles of Islam. Mirwaiz said that Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) refused to submit before oppression, injustice and falsehood, and by doing so set an eternal example of courage, steadfastness and commitment to truth. He said the tragedy of Karbala remains one of the most defining chapters in Islamic and human history, reminding believers of the values of sacrifice, justice, patience and moral responsibility. Continuing the centuries-old tradition of the Mirwaizeen, Mirwaiz Dr. Umar Farooq will deliver a special sermon on the occasion of Youm-e-Ashoora, 10th Muharram-ul-Haram 1448 AH, corresponding to Friday, June 26, 2026, at Astan-e-Aaliya Alam Sahib, Narwara, Srinagar. The sermon will commence at 4:30 PM and continue until Asr prayers. During the sermon, Mirwaiz will highlight the virtues and significance of Youm-e-Ashoora and pay homage to Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), and the martyrs of Karbala, He will also lead collective prayers on the solemn occasion.
23 Pilgrims Injured as Minibus Plunges Into Gorge in Jammu Kashmir, Two Critical
SRINAGAR: At least 23 pilgrims were injured, two of them critically, after a minibus carrying devotees to the revered Sukrala Mata shrine plunged into a gorge in the Simbli area of Kathua district on Wednesday, officials said. An official said that the minibus was on its way to the shrine when the driver reportedly lost []
Officials Laud Peaceful 8th Muharram Procession, Seek Continued Public Cooperation
SRINAGAR: Senior civil and police officials on Wednesday praised mourners, volunteers and organisers for the peaceful conduct of the 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar and appealed for continued public cooperation to ensure the smooth observance of remaining Muharram events across Kashmir. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir VK Birdi and []
23 pilgrims injured after minibus plunges into gorge in Kathua, two critical
Kathua, Jun 24 : At least 23 pilgrims were injured, two of them critically, after a minibus carrying devotees to the revered Sukrala Mata shrine plunged into a gorge in the Simbli area of Kathua district on Wednesday, officials said. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the minibus was on its way to the shrine when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle in Simbli, causing it to roll down into a gorge. The official said that 23 passengers sustained injuries in the accident, with two reported to be in critical condition. The injured were rescued and shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. The rescue operation was jointly carried out by the police, civil administration, and local residents, who rushed to the spot immediately after the accident, the official added. He said the condition of the critically injured passengers was being closely monitored by doctors. Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation to ascertain the cause of the accident.(KNO)
Jammu Kashmir HC Upholds JKBOSE Textbook Policy, Dismisses Private Schools Appeal
SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has upheld the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Educations (JKBOSE) decision mandating the use of Board-prescribed textbooks in affiliated schools, ruling that the right of private institutions to establish and administer educational institutions is subject to reasonable regulation in the larger public interest. A []
Govt names Haris Handoo nodal officer for Muharram-2026 arrangements
Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has appointed Haris Ahmad Handoo, Special Secretary in the Chief Ministers Secretariat, as the Nodal Officer to oversee inter-departmental coordination for Muharram-2026 arrangements across the Union Territory. According to a government order,Handoo will coordinate with various departments and maintain close liaison with district administrations and other agencies involved in []
ITBP ASI Deployed for Amarnath Yatra Dies in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), who was deployed for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra duties, died in Srinagar, officials said on Wednesday. The deceased has been identified as Prittam Lal, an ASI of the 37 Battalion, ITBP. He was originally posted at the battalions camp in Leh and was presently []
Mostly Dry Weather to Prevail Across J&K; Light Rain and Gusty Winds Likely Towards Late Afternoon
Srinagar, June 24: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast largely dry weather across Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days, while cautioning that brief spells of rain and thundershowers accompanied by gusty winds may occur at isolated to scattered places during late afternoons and evenings. According to the forecast, weather from June 24 to June 29 is expected to remain generally dry during the forenoon and afternoon hours. However, brief spells of light rain and thundershowers with gusty winds cannot be ruled out towards late afternoon and evening at isolated to scattered locations. The weather department has also predicted a fresh spell of weather activity from June 30 to July 3, with light to moderate rainfall, thundershowers and brief intense heavy showers accompanied by thunder and gusty winds likely at many places across the Union Territory. In its advisory, the MET Centre recommended orchard spraying during early morning hours and urged people to stay away from loose structures, electric poles, hanging wires and old trees during thunderstorms and gusty winds. Boating and Shikara activities should also be avoided during adverse weather conditions. The department further warned of the possibility of hailstorm at isolated places during late afternoon hours and cautioned that brief intense heavy showers may trigger flash floods and mudslides in vulnerable areas. People have also been advised to avoid Nallas, streams and landslide-prone areas.
Administration, stakeholders working together for smooth Muharram : Div Com Kashmir
Srinagar, Jun 24 : Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Wednesday said elaborate arrangements have been put in place for the smooth and peaceful observance of the 8th Muharram across the valley, with multiple government agencies working in tandem to ensure public safety and order. Speaking to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) Garg said the administration has deployed district teams, health personnel and police along all procession routes, acting on directives from the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister. Peaceful observance of Muharram has been a part of our culture for centuries and has been revived in the last few years. I thank the people for their cooperation and appeal to them to respect the permissions granted by the district administration, Garg said. He said the Muharram session this year is longer, spanning around 45-50 days, and detailed programmes have been finalised in consultation with various committees and stakeholders across all 10 districts where processions are being taken out. Our teams are available till evening and will remain deployed throughout the month. Quick response teams are also working on all procession routes, he added. The Divisional Commissioner also touched upon the convergence of the Muharram observances with the ongoing tourist season and the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra. He called for collective responsibility among the administration, media, voluntary organisations and citizens to ensure smooth traffic management and extend a warm welcome to pilgrims and tourists. I understand that our tourist season is going on simultaneously with Muharram, and the Amarnath Yatra is also starting. It is the responsibility of all of us as a collective unit to cooperate and follow the systems, Garg said. He urged people to adhere to advisories issued by the administration and maintain the spirit of cooperation that has been a hallmark of such observances over the years. On the Amarnath Yatra, Garg said arrangements have been augmented this year in anticipation of a higher number of devotees compared to last year, and all necessary facilities are in place barring the no-fly zone declared by the government for security reasons. (KNS)
IGP Kashmir joins 8th Muharram procession, praises mourners for maintaining peace, discipline
Srinagar: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V.K. Birdi, on Wednesday joined the 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar, praising the mourners, volunteers and organisers for upholding peace, discipline and communal harmony. Speaking to reporters, IGP Birdi, said the Jammu and Kashmir Police has made elaborate security and traffic arrangements to ensure the smooth and peaceful []
Shia Muslims gather in large numbers for 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar
Srinagar, June 24 : A large number of Shia Muslims gathered on the streets of Srinagar on Wednesday to participate in the 8th Muharram procession. This event, marked by solemnity, saw participants paying respects to the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala as the procession moved through routes in the city. The participants pounded their chests in a display of their sorrow and mourning. Muharram marks the first month of the lunar Islamic calendar and the start of the Islamic New Year. In India, Muharram is observed through prayers, fasting, and charity. District Police distributed water and refreshments among the Shia participants for a smooth procession. Srinagar Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) GV Sundeep Chakravarthy said that security and administrative arrangements were in place to facilitate the event. He stated that the procession is scheduled to conclude at the Imambara later in th evening. He also appealed to the public to follow all traffic advisories and cooperate fully with the security personnel on the ground. The procession completes at the Imambara in the evening. The Srinagar district police, are working with the traffic police, and civic administration to ensure the peaceful and dignified completion of the event... We appeal to the public to follow traffic advisories and cooperate with authorities for a successful procession, he told reporters. Muharram holds significant religious importance for Shia Muslims. In India, the Shia Muslim community, along with people of different religions, participate in large processions and tazias. Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, reaches a crescendo on the 10th day of Muharram, the day when Imam Hussain Ibn Ali and his followers were martyred in 61 Hijri or 680 CE at Karbala, in present-day Iraq. The tenth day of Muharram is the Day of Ashura, which, to Shia Muslims, is part of the mourning of Muharram. Sunni Muslims fast on this day. (ANI)
Admin, stakeholders working in sync for peaceful Muharram amid Yatra, tourist rush: Div Com Garg
Srinagar: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Wednesday said the administration and stakeholders are working in close coordination to ensure the smooth and peaceful observance of Muharram across Kashmir, even as the Valley prepares for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and continues to witness a busy tourist season. Speaking during the 8th Muharram observance, []
Iran's missile programme not part of agreement with US: President Pezeshkian
Islamabad , June 24 : Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday said that the missile programme of the Islamic Republic is not included in the 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States and will not be part of any such arrangement in the future. According to a video shared by the Iranian state media Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), Pezeshkian made the remarks while speaking at a news conference in Pakistan during his visit to Islamabad. The discussion over our missiles does not exist in the MoU, and it never will, Pezeshkian said, firmly rejecting any linkage between Iran's missile capabilities and the agreement with the United States. He further defended Iran's missile programme, describing it as a critical element of the country's defence strategy. If we did not have the missiles we use for our defence, Israel and the United States would have devastated Iran, he said. Pezeshkian's comments came during discussions with Pakistani leadership on bilateral relations and regional developments, following the conclusion of the technical talks in Switzerland as part of the 14-point MoU aimed at ending the hostilities in the region. Last week, the United States released the official text of the MoU reached with Iran. According to CNN, a senior US administration official read out the 14-point document, which reportedly includes provisions related to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, easing certain financial restrictions on Iran, and outlining expectations for future technical talks on Iran's nuclear programme. However, the published text does not include any reference to restrictions on Iran's missile programme or wider defence capabilities. The only weapons-related provision explicitly mentioned is Iran's commitment not to procure or develop nuclear weapons. While US President Donald Trump had earlier made curbing Iran's missile programme a key justification for military operations, his position has since shifted during diplomatic negotiations. He said at last week's G7 summit in France that missiles aren't the problem. (ANI)
SDRF Teams Recover Body From Canal in Central Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A man was found dead after being retrieved from the Hydropower Canal at the Burnbugh area of Kangan in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Wednesday, officials said. According to officials, teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) from Gund and Ganderbal launched a search and rescue operation after receiving information that a man []
8th Muharram rally conveys peace, unity: Masroor Abbas
Srinagar, Jun 24: Shia cleric Masroor Abbas Ansari on Wednesday described the 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar as a message of humanity and thanked the administration for allowing it after 35 years, while expressing hope for permission for the Ashura rally. The 8th Muharram procession, which begins from Abhigudar and ends at Dal Gate, is the biggest congregation in the city and holds historical significance, Ansari told KNS. The cleric said the rally had been banned for over three decades. The LG administration gave us the freedom to hold this mass. We are grateful to them, he said. Ansari said the procession carries a message of unity, peace, security, and humanity. He added, The purpose for which Imam Hussain went to Karbala was the success of humanity and societyto fight oppression and protect rights. Asserting that Imam Hussain's appeal is universal, Ansari said, Imam Hussain is not just a martyr for Shias or Muslims, but a martyr for all humanity. His message is for everyone. On the 10th Muharram procession, Ansari urged the administration to take a old step. For 35 years, governments could not do this due to bureaucratic pressure. This administration has the courage and strength, he said. He called for allowing the Ashura procession through its traditional route to culminate at Zadibal stating it would enable the exercise of constitutional religious freedom in a peaceful and disciplinedmanner. (KNS)
Thousands Join 8th Muharram Procession in Srinagar Amid Tight Security, Drone Surveillance
SRINAGAR: Thousands of mourners participated in the traditional 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar on Wednesday, with authorities putting in place elaborate security, traffic and civic arrangements, including drone surveillance, to ensure the peaceful conduct of the event. The procession commenced from Guru Bazar in the early morning hours and proceeded along the traditional route via []
SRINAGAR: More than 200 medical students from Jammu and Kashmir studying at Ad-din Womens Medical College in Bangladesh have appealed to authorities to allow the continuation of their internship training at Ad-din Hospital, warning that any disruption could jeopardise years of medical education and prevent them from obtaining professional registration in India. The appeal comes []
Mission YUVA Gains Momentum in Budgam; Over 4,100 Applications Approved
Budgam, June 23: In a significant push towards promoting self-employment and entrepreneurship among youth, the District Administration Budgam has received 5,699 applications under the Mission YUVA initiative, with 4,117 proposals approved by the Deputy Commissioner Budgam. According to official data available with Rising Kashmir, out of the total applications received, 4,789 have been verified, while 899 applications are currently pending with the Small Business Development Unit (SBDU). The data further reveals that 512 applications were returned to applicants through the Rejection Cell for various deficiencies. Of the verified applications, 4,117 have received approval from the Deputy Commissioner. Officials said that 1,679 applications have been sanctioned by banks, while financial assistance has already been disbursed to 1,404 beneficiaries. Additionally, 623 applications were rejected by the Directorate of Employment. So far, 322 beneficiaries have received the first tranche of subsidy under the scheme. An official said that Mission YUVA is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir in collaboration with J&K Bank to promote youth-led entrepreneurship, self-employment, and job creation across the Union Territory. The programme aims to establish more than 1.37 lakh enterprises and generate over 4.25 lakh employment opportunities, enabling young people to become job creators rather than job seekers, the official said. The official further said that 9,715 unemployed youth have registered themselves with the District Employment and Counselling Centre (DECC) Budgam. The registered candidates include 6,921 males and 2,794 females. He urged unemployed youth aspiring to start their own ventures to apply through the Small Business Development Unit under Mission YUVA. Any unemployed individual interested in establishing a business can avail the benefits of Mission YUVA by applying through the SBDU. The scheme provides support and opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs across Budgam district, theofficial added.
NEW DELHI: ( Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday received a phone call from the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who expressed grief over the death of Indian nationals in a tragic accident at Ras Laffan Industrial City in that country. Twelve Indians were among 13 people killed in an explosion []
Forest Dept employee dies of heart attack at Doodhpathri
Srinagar, Jun 23: A wave of grief swept through Maloora area of Srinagar on Monday following the sudden demise of a Forest Department employee, Muzamil Iqbal Wagay, who suffered a massive heart attack while visiting the tourist destination of Doodhpathri in Budgam district. Muzamil, a resident of Hanan Abad, Maloora, was at the scenic resort when he suddenly complained of severe chest pain and collapsed. He was immediately rushed to a nearby medical facility, but doctors declared him dead on arrival. The news of his untimely death spread rapidly, leaving his family, friends, colleagues, and local residents in deep shock. Muzamil was serving in the Urban Forestry Division of the Forest Department and was known among his colleagues for his dedication, sincerity, and commitment to duty. Residents of Maloora remembered him as a humble, soft-spoken, and kind-hearted individual who maintained warm relations with everyone. Colleagues described him as a hardworking employee and a dependable friend whose presence would be greatly missed. He was a noble soul and a genuinely good human being. It is difficult to believe that he is no longer among us, said a grieving friend. Muzamil is survived by his wife, one son, two daughters, and his elderly parents. His sudden passing has left the family devastated and created a void that will be difficult to fill. A large number of mourners, including senior Forest Department officials, employees, relatives, friends, and local residents, attended his Nimaz-e-Janaza in Maloora. Emotional scenes were witnessed as people gathered to offer their final respects and bid farewell to a beloved colleague and community member. Condolence messages poured in from various quarters, with people praying for eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to his bereaved family to bear the immense loss.
DC Ganderbal reviews progress of Phase-I Census activities
Ganderbal, Jun 23: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore on Tuesday chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of ongoing Phase-I Census activities across the district and emphasized the importance of ensuring accurate and comprehensive data collection. During the meeting, a detailed review was conducted regarding the status of House Listing Blocks (HLBs), including the number of blocks completed and those pending. The progress of field-level enumeration and supervisory verification was also assessed. The DC stressed that the Census serves as an important foundation for planning and delivery of public services and therefore requires utmost accuracy and diligence. He directed Enumerators and Supervisors to ensure that information collected from households is entered carefully and verified thoroughly so that the data reflects the ground realities. Special focus was laid on the enumeration of the migratory population. The meeting was informed that additional House Listing Blocks have been created to facilitate their coverage and that enumeration work has already commenced. The DC directed concerned officers to ensure that every eligible household and individual is covered so that no segment of the population is left out. Emphasizing the need for regular monitoring, the DC instructed field functionaries to closely supervise ongoing activities, review progress periodically and promptly address any issues arising during the exercise. The DC also urged all officers associated with the exercise to work with dedication and coordination to ensure that the Census is conducted in a transparent, accurate and efficient manner. The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, District Coordinator Census, Charge Officers, and officers and officials associated with Census operations in the district.
DC Gbal chairs NCORD meeting, calls for sustained multi-departmental efforts
Ganderbal, Jun 23: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore on Tuesday chaired a meeting of the District Level NCORD Committee to review the district's efforts towards curbing drug abuse and strengthening rehabilitation, awareness and enforcement measures under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan. During the meeting, a comprehensive review of the actions taken by various departments in tackling substance abuse was held, with focus on enforcement, awareness generation, rehabilitation services, and the prevention of illicit cultivation of narcotic crops. During the meeting, the Drug Control Department informed that regular inspections of medical shops were being carried out across the district. It was reported that action against several medical shops in terms of suspension, cancellation of license, and sealing of premises has been done. They also apprised about lifting of samples to check misuse of pharmaceutical drugs. Reviewing enforcement measures, the committee was informed that naka checking and random inspections of warehouses and courier facilities were being conducted to prevent the transportation and illegal distribution of narcotic substances. The Excise and Police Departments were directed to continue surprise inspections and strengthen monitoring mechanisms to curb drug trafficking. Health department informed about the training of Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) staff and availability of required medicine. DC emphasised the need for a compassionate and victim-centric approach to ensure effective treatment and recovery support for those battling addiction. The meeting was informed that awareness and sensitisation programmes had been conducted in various schools, while Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities were being undertaken across the district. The DC directed all concerned departments to further expand outreach programmes and involve educational institutions, community leaders and youth groups in spreading awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse. The committee also reviewed progress on the cancellation of driving licences, vehicle registrations and other documents of individuals involved in narcotics-related offences. Concerned departments were directed to strengthen coordination, and ensure timely disposal of pending cases as per prescribed procedures. Calling for sustained coordination among all stakeholders, the DC reiterated that combating drug abuse requires collective efforts from government agencies, educational institutions, families and communities. He directed all departments to work in close coordination to build a safer, healthier and drug-free Ganderbal. The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police, Ganderbal, Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Deputy Director Prosecution, Medical Superintendent District Hospital Ganderbal, Chief Agriculture Officer, Chief Education Officer, Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Tehsildars, Deputy Superintendent of Police (Headquarters), and officers from Health, Excise, Police, Drug Control, Social Welfare and other concerned departments.
DC Srinagar hands over Mobile Screening Van to District TB Centre
Srinagar, Jun 23: In a significant step towards strengthening tuberculosis detection and prevention efforts in the district, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Tuesday handed over a Mobile Screening Van (Ni-Kshay Vahaan) to the District Tuberculosis Centre, Srinagar, under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of IDBI Bank. The initiative has been undertaken as part of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan 2.0 to enhance tuberculosis screening, early diagnosis and awareness generation across the district. After formally flagging off the Ni-Kshay Vahaan from the DC Office Complex, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the importance of early detection in the effective management and elimination of tuberculosis. He stated that the Mobile Screening Van, equipped with a Handheld X-Ray Unit and a TRU-NAAT Machine, will significantly strengthen the Districts capacity for timely diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment for TB patients. The DC said that the Van will be deployed across urban and rural areas of the District to conduct extensive TB screening and awareness campaigns, particularly targeting vulnerable and underserved populations. He emphasized that the initiative will play a pivotal role in expanding outreach services and ensuring that quality diagnostic facilities reach people at their doorstep. Reaffirming the District Administrations commitment to the national goal of eliminating tuberculosis, the Deputy Commissioner stated that the deployment of the mobile screening unit would further accelerate efforts being undertaken under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and contribute towards achieving the vision of a TB-free India. He said the initiative is expected to strengthen active case-finding activities and improve accessibility to diagnostic services across the district. The DC also appreciated IDBI Bank for extending support under its CSR programme and lauded the institutions commitment towards public health and community welfare. Among those present on the occasion were Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar; IAS Probationer, Alfred Thomas; Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tahir Sajad; District Tuberculosis Officer, Dr. Rouf; District Health Officer, senior Officers of the District Administration, Health Department and District TB Centre and representativesrk of IDBI Bank.
Sea of mourners floods streets as 8th Muharram procession begins in Sgr
Srinagar: Beneath a blanket of black flags and mourning banners, thousands of devotees streamed into Srinagars city centre at dawn on Wednesday as the traditional 8th Muharram procession began, transforming the Guru Bazar-Dalgate route into a river of mourners moving in remembrance of the martyrs of Karbala. From Guru Bazar to Dalgate, roads wore a []
Artisans delegation meets Bukhari, seeks intervention for revival of handicrafts sector
Highlights challenges, factors behind decline of traditional Kashmiri arts &crafts SRINAGAR: A delegation of Kashmiri artisans from Srinagars Shehr-e-Khaas (downtown) on Tuesday called on Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari to apprise him of the challenges, problems, and concerns faced by the artisan community, as well as the reasons behind the steady decline of []
DC Sgr hands over Mobile TB Screening Van to District Tuberculosis Centre
Ni-Kshay Vahaan to boost mobile screening, active case-finding: Labroo SRINAGAR: In a significant step towards strengthening tuberculosis detection and prevention efforts in the district, Deputy Commissioner(DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Tuesday handed over a Mobile Screening Van (Ni-Kshay Vahaan) to the District Tuberculosis Centre, Srinagar, under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of IDBI Bank. []
Sakeena Itoo reviews admissions in Govt Degree Colleges across J&K
Calls for emerging technology courses, diversified academic offerings, measures to boost enrolment SRINAGAR: Maintaining that student welfare should remain the top priority, Minister for Higher Education, Sakeena Itoo on Tuesday said that sustained reforms in the higher education sector are essential to make colleges more accessible, inclusive and responsive to the aspirations of students. The []
Higher Edu Dept notifies Spot Round for UG Admissions 202627
Fresh Registration, Preferences Open from June 23-26 on JK Admissions Portal SRINAGAR: Higher Education Department, J&K, has notified the conduct of the Spot Round for Undergraduate/Integrated PG admissions in Government Degree Colleges of J&K for the Academic Session 202627, for filling up the vacant seats remaining after completion of Round-2 admission formalities. The Spot Round []
JKSAs Nasir Khuehami meets Union Minister Nitin Gadkaris Advisor
Raises demands for Bandipora-Gurez National Highway status, Gurez Tunnel project NEW DELHI: Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) National Convenor Nasir Khuehami on Tuesday met Vaibhav Dange, Chairman of the Build India Foundation and Advisor to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, in New Delhi. He was accompanied by Kunal Sharma, Founder []
SRINAGAR: Rajesh Dhar, Administrative Manager, Indian Cricket Team called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday. Dhar was accompanied by Kirti Dhar, Working Committee Member of Jammu Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA). Vipen Kumar, Chairman, All Jammu Based Reserved Category Employees Association Kashmir (AJBRCEAK), also called on the Lieutenant Governor. A delegation of Shri Amarnath Ji []
J&K CEO hosts first ever global conference on Polling Day Best Practices
JAMMU: The Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Jammu and Kashmir, held its first International Conference on Global Best Practices in Polling Day Operations on Monday in hybrid mode, with 60 participants at Nirvachan Bhawan, Jammu and 115 joining online from across the world. Conducted under Indias Chairmanship of International IDEA, the event forms part []
SRINAGAR: Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL has informed that the Shutdown of 33 kV Kanipora-Pinjoora line will be observed due to which power supply to Pinjoora, Puhnoo, Trenz, Mohanpora, Imamsahab, Kiloora, Arhama, Zawoora, Chodrigund, Reshinagar, Vehil, Palpora, Benimpora and adjoining areas will be affected from 08 AM to 02 PM on 29 June 2026. Similarly, shutdown []
DC Kulgam reviews NH-444 Kulgam Bypass, Stresses early opening of Brazloo bridge
KULGAM: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of the NH-444 Kulgam Bypass, with special emphasis on the early opening of the Brazloo Bridge. The meeting was attended by the Competent Authority for Land Acquisition (CALA), Additional Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Executive Engineer, Project Division-I Srinagar, Tehsildars of Pahloo []
Parliamentary Panel on External Affairs Reviews Border Security, Development During Kashmir Visit
SRINAGAR: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Member of Parliament Dr Shashi Tharoor, continued its four-day study visit to Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh on Tuesday, holding meetings with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar. The 13-member committee is undertaking the visit to review strategic border security, []
No room for complacency in Yatra security: DGP
Srinagar, Jun 23: Director General of Police (DGP) J&K Nalin Prabhat on Tuesdaydirected all agencies to enhance security measures at vulnerable points, particularly along the main Amarnath Yatra route and other sensitive locations. He called for revisiting and further reinforcing security arrangements along the National Highway and railway infrastructure. The DGP convened a security review meetingin connection with the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY-2026) at Police Control Room Kashmir, attended by senior officers of the Army, Central Armed Police Forces, Intelligence Agencies, and J&K Police, and issued a series ofdirections aimed at further strengthening the security architecture for the Yatra. The meeting was attended by GOC 16 Corps, GOC 15 Corps, GOC 9 Corps, Special DGP Coordination, ADGP CID, ADG CRPF, IGPs of Kashmir and Jammu Zones, IGP Security, IGP Railways, IGP Traffic, IGP CID, GOC CIF (K) Srinagar, GOC CIF (V) Awantipora, IG BSF, IG CRPF KOS, IG NWF ITBP, IG CRPF Srinagar and Jammu, all Range DIGs, DIG IR Kashmir, DIG CID Kashmir, DIG Traffic Kashmir, DIG Armed Jammu and Kashmir, DIG Security, DIG Railways, DIG SSB Srinagar and Jammu, DIG CISF Jammu, DIG CRPF South and North Srinagar, DIG BSF Ftr. Hqrs. (K), DIG RPF Kashmir, DIG ITBP Srinagar and Jammu, all District SSPs, SSPs PCR/Traffic City/Rural/NHW/Railways/APCR/CID SB/CI/Security, I/Cs JPCR Baltal and Pahalgam, SSP Telecom Kashmir, DD SIB Jammu, SPs of SOG Jammu and Srinagar, and other senior officers. At the outset, participating officers briefed the DGP on security preparedness and arrangementsputin place to ensuresmooth, peaceful, and incident-free conduct of the annual pilgrimage. The J&K Police chief stressed strict adherence to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and directedthat daily briefings be conductedfor all deployed personnel to ensure operational readiness and situational awareness. He instructed officers to sensitise Yatris at camp locations regarding safety protocols through awareness campaigns, includingthe display of bannerbanners and posters highlighting SOPs and important Do's and Don'ts at strategic locations. Underscoring the importance of vigilance and accountability, the DGP statedthatthere is no room for complacency or errors in the security grid and directed officers to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and preparedness. He emphasised close coordination among all security and intelligence agencies and directed them to ensure the timely sharing of information to achieve desired security outcomes. The DGP instructed forces to work jointly and intensify efforts to neutralise remaining terrorists and their associates active in the Valley,and calledfor enhanced cordon and search operations, particularly around Yatra routes, National Highway stretches, railway stations, and other critical locations. He directed officers to maintain strict vigilance over social media platforms and ensure prompt intervention to counter misinformation and fake narratives,with legal action to be taken against individuals involved inspreading rumours or creating panic. Reviewing security and administrative arrangements for forthcoming Muharram observances, Prabhat directed officers to maintain robust security measures while ensuring close coordination with members of local Shia associations. He stressed the need for smooth conduct of Muharram processions and directed concerned officers to formulate and implement comprehensive traffic management plans, with procession routes publicised well in advance. The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the collective commitment of all security agencies to ensure the safe, secure, and peaceful conduct of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 and forthcoming religious events across the Kashmir Valley.
PMGSY progress reviewed:Ensure no delays in road projects: CM
Srinagar, Jun 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired a review meeting to assess the implementation and progress of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) across Jammu and Kashmir, with a particular focus on expediting ongoing works, improving rural connectivity, and addressing bottlenecks affecting project execution. The CM reviewed the status of PMGSY works under various phases of the programme andtook stock ofthe progress achieved in providing all-weather road connectivity to rural habitations across Jammu and Kashmir. He was briefed on the ongoing projects, newly sanctioned works, and the roadmap for completion of pending road and bridge projects. Emphasising the transformative role of rural road connectivity in improving the quality of life in remote areas, the Chief Minister directed concerned departments to ensure the timely execution of all sanctioned works while maintaining the higheststandards of quality.He stressed the need for close inter-departmental coordination to resolve issues affecting project implementation, particularly those relating to statutory clearances and other procedural requirements, and called for regular monitoring of works at all levels to ensure adherence to timelines. The Chief Minister also reviewed the implementation strategy for PMGSY-IV and directed concerned authorities to expedite preparatory processes so that sanctioned works are taken up in a time-bound manner. He underscored the importance of extending reliable road connectivity to eligible rural habitations, especially those located in remote and border areas. During the meeting, officers presented an overview of the progress achieved under different phases of PMGSY and outlined the action plan for completion of the remaining works. The Chief Minister directed that all pending issues requiring inter-departmental coordination be addressed with priority to facilitate seamless execution of the programme. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Additional Chief Secretary Mining Ashwini Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary Public Works (R&B) Anil Kumar Singh, Commissioner Secretary Forest, Ecology & Environment Sheetal Nanda, besides senior officers of the Public Works Department and other concerned departments.
Parl panel briefed on border security, Op Sindoor
Srinagar, Jun 23: Security officials on Tuesday briefed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs about border protection measures and the preparedness of security forces following the success of Operation Sindoor last year. The committee, headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, is on a four-day study visit to Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh to review strategic security and foreign policy matters, including Indias relations with Pakistan and China. Committee member Rajiv Shukla said the interaction with Army and defence officials focused on the security situation along the borders, operational preparedness and future challenges. We had a fruitful interaction with Army officers and security agencies regarding the protection of our borders and the performance of forces during Operation Sindoor. They also briefed us on future precautions, preparations and lessons learnt, Shukla told reporters here. Officials informed the panel about steps being taken to strengthen security along the Line of Control and the International Border, besides measures aimed at reassuring people living in border areas. The committee is also examining the impact of the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the threat posed by cross-border terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir. Officials said discussions additionally covered India-China relations and the prevailing situation along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh. As part of its visit, the parliamentary delegation will travel to Kargil and Leh over the next two days to gain first-hand insights into border management and security infrastructure in frontier regions. Meanwhile, Rajiv Shukla also expressed hope for an early restoration of peace in the Middle East, saying prolonged tensions involving Iran and the United States were adversely affecting global trade and Indias economic interests. He saidreopening ofthe Strait of Hormuz would help ease pressure on maritime trade and energy supplies crucial for India.
LG directs seamless security, essential services for Muharram
Srinagar, Jun 23: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting to review arrangements for Muharram across Jammu and Kashmir, directing senior officials to ensure seamless security, traffic management, law and order, and availability of public amenities. He instructed the IGP Traffic to enforce a comprehensive traffic management plan for both Muharram and the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, DGP Nalin Prabhat, Additional Chief Secretaries Shaleen Kabra, Ashwani Kumar, and Anil Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary Home Chandraker Bharti, Special DG Coordination S.J.M. Gillani, ADGP CID Nitish Kumar, Principal SecretarytoLieutenant Governor and CEO Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Administrative Secretaries, IGPs, Divisional Commissioners, Municipal Commissioners, and other senior officers. Reviewing essential services, the Lieutenant Governor directed for uninterrupted power and potable water supply, adequate sanitation and medical facilities, availability of ambulances, and fire and emergency response teams at procession routes. He directed senior officials to remain accessible on the ground for real-time monitoring and quick redressal of public grievances. All arrangements should be made with utmost sensitivity and efficiency. Senior Officers must remain available on the ground and maintain constant monitoring toensureprompt response to any situation, he said. The LG directed the IGP Traffic to enforce a comprehensive traffic management plan for Muharram and the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra to ensure smooth movement of processions, Yatris, and the general public. The IGP Traffic was directed to conduct meetings with field officers and strengthen coordination with all stakeholder agencies for effective implementation of the traffic management plan. Sinha directed officials to raise awareness about traffic SOPs and cut-off timings, while increasing the number of RFID card counters to better facilitate devotees of Baba Barfani. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg apprised the meeting of the arrangements in place by various departments for the smooth and peaceful observance of Muharram. The Lieutenant Governor stressed the need for close coordination among all stakeholder departments to ensure the timely and effective delivery of services.
PM Modi-led govt revolutionised public service delivery: LG
J&K witnessed digital governance leap; 98% Panchayats connected Srinagar, Jun 23: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday highlighted historic transformations under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the inclusive development revolution driven by the 3-tier Panchayati Raj system. In 2020, we set out to build a J&K where the government reaches the citizens' doorstep. With a 'People First' approach, we revolutionised public service delivery, the LG said while addressing the Seva Se Samriddhi- Panchayat-led Service Delivery Regional Workshop organised by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj and J&K Administration. He added, From just 35 online services in 2020 to more than 1,100 by 2023, UT topped the national e-service delivery rankings. We made Panchayati Raj institutions the strongest voice and largest participants in governance. Through 'Block Diwas' and 'Back to Village' campaigns, we tried to ensure services reach doorsteps, infrastructure meets local needs, and policies flow from the grassroots up. Sinha said that between 2016 and 2018, Jammu and Kashmir recorded 20 million digital transactions over three years. In contrast, in the first six months of 2023 alone, there were 50 crore digital transactionsfar exceeding many large states. More than 15,000 Common Service Centre outlets are operational in J&K today, with 4,211 out of 4,290 panchayats connected to this network, representing 98.16 per cent coverage. The Lieutenant Governor shared five key recommendations: establishing a Village Innovation Lab in every panchayat for local youth, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and social organisations to collaborate on low-cost solutions; running modern capacity-building programmes for panchayat leaders; institutionalising participatory budgeting (launched in J&K in 2021); mainstreaming sustainable development models like Green Jammu Kashmir, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and Ek Ped Beti Ke Naam; and putting women in leadership roles across all schemes. As part of the workshop, Panditpora Gram Panchayat from Kupwara and CSC Village Level Entrepreneur Syed Waris Hafiz from Budgam, along with outstanding Gram Panchayats and Common Service Centres from participating states, were recognised and felicitated. The workshop, held in collaboration with CSC-SPV, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, and Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, J&K, included panel discussions, technical sessions, and experience-sharing on strengthening Panchayat-led service delivery through digital transformation, citizen participation, and improved accessibility. The event was attended by Minister for Rural Development Javid Ahmad Dar, Ministry of Panchayati Raj Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj, Commissioner Secretary IT Saurabh Bhagat, Joint Secretary MoPR Palka Sahni, COO Common Service Centres Pravin Chandekar, Director General J&K IMPARD Rehana Batul, Secretary Rural Development Mohammad Aijaz Asad, DIG CKR Rajiv Omprakashn, SSP Srinagar Dr G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, DG Rural Sanitation Anoo Malhotra, panchayat functionaries, elected representatives, Village Level Entrepreneurs, and senior officials. Representatives from civil society, academic institutions, and organisations working in rural technology also participated. The LG said the objective must be clear: to develop panchayats where every citizen can access services digitally, grievances are resolved quickly, decisions are taken collectively, and accountability is systemic. He described the regional conference as a reflection of three core traits of Indiaunity in diversity, strength through cooperation, and prosperity through service.
How self-medication is poisoning Kashmirs people in slow motion From city chemist shops to village kiryana counters, antibiotics, painkillers, and steroids are being dispensed like candies; no prescription, no record, no questions asked. The result is a public health crisis unfolding in slow motion, with officialdom largely looking away. A recent indicative survey by local health activists in a few districts suggested that nearly 6 out of 10 households had purchased antibiotics in the last year without consulting a doctor. In some urban pockets, pharmacists privately admit that over half of their daily sales involve prescription-only medicines given purely on the patients request or the chemists guess. Ask any pharmacist in Srinagar or a small town in north or south Kashmir, and the answer is the same: people walk in, name a drug, or just point to a strip they used earlier, and walk out with a refill. Fever? Take an antibiotic. Body ache? Two painkillers. Why visit an overburdened hospital or wait in a queue when a chemist counter has become the de facto clinic for thousands? This culture is not an accident. It is the direct consequence of a broken health system, weak regulation, and a worrying absence of public awareness. OPD departments are overcrowded, rural health centres are often understaffed, and appointments are hard to get. In this vacuum, unregulated over-the-counter sales flourish. Many chemist shops in the Valley now function as parallel, unlicensed consulting rooms with shop workers casually recommending powerful drugs without any medical training. The dangers are enormous. Local clinicians warn that resistance to common antibiotics is rising alarmingly, with some hospital labs informally reporting 3040% of samples showing poor response to first-line drugs. Habit-forming painkillers are creating dependency and mental health complications that rarely surface until they explode inside families. Steroids given for quick relief are damaging organs over the long term. And, perhaps most tragically, self-medication masks serious illnesses, delaying diagnosis until it is too late. Officials cannot pretend ignorance. Periodic drives and token inspections do not amount to a policy. Where is the strict enforcement of prescription-only rules for antibiotics and psychotropic drugs? Where are the surprise checks, license cancellations, and penalties that would send a clear signal? Why does the medical council not act against those practitioners who casually prescribe over the phone, encouraging this dangerous shortcut? Equally missing is a serious public awareness campaign. Schools, mosques, media, and local health workers must be mobilised to drive home a simple truth: self-medication is not harmless thrift, it is slow poison.
Srinagar Sinks: What is Smart about this city?
A woman electrocuted in Naid Kadal, and roads turned into ponds, showing how drainage failure and official apathy are putting lives on the line When a city is brought to its knees by an hour of rain, it is not the weather that stands accused, but governance. Mondays cloudburst over Srinagar, lasting barely an hour, was enough to turn key stretches of the summer capital into grim, flood-like corridors. At Naid Kadals Ranger Stop, that failure turned fatal. A 60-year-old woman was electrocuted as she tried to steady herself on a metal electric pole while wading through an inundated road. She died on the spot. The tragedy is being called an accident. In truth, it is the predictable outcome of years of neglect. From Bagh-e-Mehtab to Khanyar, Safa Kadal and other city pockets, the script was the same: roads vanishing under sheets of water within minutes of the downpour; pedestrians trapped under shopfronts and rooftops, forced to wait out the deluge; commuters inching through pothole-riddled, waterlogged stretches, unsure where the tarmac ended, and a crater began. This was not a prolonged spell of extreme weather. It was a one-hour shower in June, yet it exposed, yet again, how fragile Srinagars drainage and road infrastructure really is. People did not mince words. They pointed to the absurdity of a city that talks of smart city, better infrastructure, but cannot cope with a brief spell of rain. They asked the Srinagar Municipal Corporation and the concerned departments a basic question: why does water stand on roads almost as soon as the first heavy drops fall? What does this say about the design, maintenance and desilting of drains; about encroachments allowed to choke natural outlets; about the quality of roadworks that cannot withstand routine weather? There are no convincing answers, only stock phrases and routine assurances. Officials insist that men and machinery were immediately pressed into service for dewatering and that teams are on their toes. But such fire-fighting, however prompt, does not compensate for systemic failure. It does not bring back a life lost to a live electric pole standing in the middle of a flooded street. It does not reassure a citizenry that watches the same scenes replay every season: knee-deep water, chaotic traffic, exposed wires, and a governance apparatus that wakes up only after disaster strikes. Srinagar deserves better than this cycle of apathy, outrage and temporary pumping. What is needed is a time-bound overhaul of drainage networks, strict action against encroachments, rigorous pre-monsoon inspections of electric infrastructure, and accountability for every department whose negligence turns rain into a public hazard. A city that cannot guarantee safe passage during an hour of rain has no business speaking of modernity. Time will tell whether the administration is willing to move from comforting words to uncomfortable action.
Economy in Play: FIFA World Cup 2026 & Future of Global Sports
The FIFA World Cup 2026 may be viewed not simply as a tournament, but as a window into the future structure of economic activity itself For generations, football has been described as the most popular sport on major part of this planet. As we witness the FIFA World Cup 2026, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, the attention of fans revolves around towards star players, tactical battles and championship ambitions. But beneath the excitement lies a far larger storyone concerning jobs, investment, innovation, tourism, media, public revenues and social value. Global sports events like the football World Cup are increasingly becoming an economic phenomenon, a global marketplace, a technology platform, a tourism accelerator, and a branding exercise. A recent report released by the World Economic Forum (WEF) highlights this story within a broader global context and suggests that sports are becoming an increasingly significant component of the emerging global economy, one that intersects with several of the industries that are expected to drive growth in the coming decades. The FIFA World Cup 2026 may therefore be viewed not simply as a tournament, but as a window into the future structure of economic activity itself. According to the World Economic Forum's report Growth in the New Economy: Towards a Blueprint (2026), the industries that are expected to contribute most significantly to global growth between 2025 and 2030 include the IT services, advanced manufacturing, medical and healthcare services, accommodation and leisure services, and agriculture, forestry and fishing. At first glance, football or any other sports appear absent from the above list; however, a deeper insight tells a different story with a strong correlation of the modern sports industry with most of these listed growth sectors. In this context, it is obvious that tourism and hospitality are directly linked to major sporting events, and the digital transformation of sports heavily relies on IT services. Similarly, as the areas of stadium construction and infrastructure upgrades largely depend upon advanced manufacturing, yet the athlete performance and fan well-being are felt to be increasingly intersecting with healthcare innovation. Even agriculture, which apparently seems less involved directly with the event, contributes through food supply chains serving millions of visitors. Modern sport is therefore not a standalone economic island; it is an intersection point where multiple growth industries converge. The World Cup exemplifies this convergence more dramatically than perhaps any other recurring global event. The World Economic Forum's analysis of the Sports Economy presents a compelling framework to understand things in real perspective. At its centre lies a broad ecosystem extending far beyond competitive matches. The core includes professional and elite sport, participatory sport and physical activity, sports tourism, and sporting goods. Around these are connected industries such as broadcasting and streaming, gaming, nutrition, sports services, wearable technologies and research institutions. This entire system is surrounded and held in place by governments, investors, local communities, indigenous populations, philanthropic organisations, and the wider private sector. This typical layered structure reveals an important reality that every major sporting event, like the football World Cup, creates an economic activity with far-reaching effects beyond the stadium gates. The modern sporting ecosystem consists of diverse contribution components ranging from a tourist travelling for the tournament supporting airlines, hotels and restaurants to a football fan watching a match on a streaming platform contributing to digital revenues. Similarly, among the other components, a company developing wearable fitness technology participates in the sports value chain while the Governments investing in transport and other infrastructure become the key economic partners for the event. Even Universities distantly conducting sports science research somehow become stakeholders with their knowledge and technical inputs. The boundaries between sport and economy in the present global world have become increasingly difficult to distinguish. Sports are increasingly becoming a platform through which technology companies, healthcare firms, tourism operators, media organisations, and investors pursue growth opportunities. Perhaps the most striking finding in the World Economic Forums analysis quoted above is the projected growth trajectory of the global sports economy. It estimates the global revenue pool associated with sports as $2.3 trillion in 2025 and is projected to reach $3.7 trillion by 2030, with an annual growth rate exceeding 10%. The report further suggests that the projected figure could rise to about $8.8 trillion by 2050, on conservative estimates. Such numbers challenge conventional perceptions of sport being seen merely as an entertainment. An economy approaching nine (9) trillion dollars would rival the size of some of the world's largest national economies. The implications are profound as it would represent or potentially represent a substantial share of global consumption, employment, innovation and investment activity. In many respects, the football stadium has become a marketplace as important as the global shopping mall or financial area of wider economic activity. The economic projections associated with the current FIFA World Cup 2026 illustrate this dynamic vividly. According to impact assessments officially cited by the World FIFA organisation, the tournament this time is expected to generate 6.5 million attendees, $13.9 billion in event-related expenditure, $80.1 billion in gross economic output, 824,000 full-time equivalent jobs, $9.4 billion in government revenue and $8.28 billion in estimated social benefits. These figures reveal the multiplier effect characteristic of any major sporting event. The initial spending by visitors does not simply disappear after a ticket purchase but continues to circulate through hotels, transport systems, restaurants, retail businesses, local suppliers, media organisations, and other service providers. As the World Economic Forum identifies accommodation, food and leisure services among the major contributors to future economic growth via sports, the tourism and hospitality sectors are likely to experience the most visible benefit in such a case. Besides, the positive fan experience can translate into repeat visits, investment interest and stronger international branding. The final score may be forgotten, but the memory of a destination often endures. Football's future (or any other global sport) is increasingly digital with streaming platforms, artificial intelligence, data analytics, gaming, wearable devices and fan engagement technologies becoming central to modern sports. This is where the sports economy intersects directly with the WEF's identification of IT services as the leading driver of global growth. The modern fan no longer experiences the World Cup solely through television but consumes a lot of data on mobile devices, engages through social media, participates in fantasy competitions, purchases digital content and interacts with real-time statistics. Every above interaction generates an economic value wherein technology firms and other related entities have the opportunity to showcase innovations at an unprecedented scale alongside the display of different emerging digital business models. One of the most noteworthy aspects of contemporary economic analysis is footballs growing recognition that value extends beyond financial transactions. FIFA assesses the social benefits worth $8.28 billion from the World Cup 2025 at a 3.64 value of social return on investment through areas like community engagement, social cohesion, physical activity promotion, civic pride and other broader societal outcomes. The conventional accounting often struggles to capture these social parameters, and events such as the World Cup remind us that societies also generate value through shared experiences, cultural exchange and collective identity. When millions of people from diverse backgrounds across the globe celebrate a common passion, something economically significant occurs even if it never appears on a routine balance sheet. The challenge for modern economics and economists is learning how to measure it. Having said all this, the World Cup is thus no longer only about who wins the trophy but more about understanding how the world's most popular game has become one of the most powerful economic engines for global growth and development. (The Author is Associate Prof. SKUAST-Kashmir)
New India moves from Suspicion to Trust, from Fear to Freedom
12 Years of gains for all The Jan Vishwas legislation is a symbol of PM Modis effort to ease life for all our citizens For decades, Indias regulatory architecture dealt with citizens with deep mistrust, and regarded them as criminals for minor, procedural violations, or mere suspicion by a person in authority. In a refreshing change, the Modi government has made policies rooted in trust and compassion for the common man. PM Modi has taken significant steps towards improving Indias legislative landscape to support citizens and businesses, simplify compliances, and acknowledge the practical difficulties businesses face. Whether through reducing compliance burdens, digitisation, or single-window clearances, the broader shift has been towards making governance more reasonable and efficient. The PMs mantra of governance based on trust and compassion is clearly visible in the in the Jan Vishwas Act, 2026, and a similar law in 2023. Citizen friendly - To create a citizen-friendly regulatory environment and encourage compliance, the new law deals with minor offences with clear principles: Warning before punishment, making penalties proportional to the severity of the offence, swift and transparent resolution, and a dynamic penalty framework with periodic revision to ensure that enforcement remains effective, relevant, and responsive over time. This represents a major shift in regulatory approach, compliance, and enforcement in line with the PMs view that Indias 21st-century aspirations cannot be realised through governance tools of the bygone colonial era. The scale of the reform is unprecedented. The Jan Vishwas Act amends 784 provisions across 79 Central Acts administered by 23 Ministries. It decriminalises 717 provisions and rationalises another 67 to improve ease of living. It is the largest decriminalisation exercise in independent Indias legislative history. It rationalises more than 1,000 offences, removes outdated and redundant provisions, omits obsolete colonial-era offences, and strengthens adjudication and appeal mechanisms outside criminal courts. Welcome Changes Earlier, anybody could be imprisoned for three months for merely being present in a house, building, or vehicle between sunset and sunrise without a satisfactory explanation. This reflected the colonial-era, suspicion-based approach that treated ordinary movement as potentially criminal. The reform abolishes this offence altogether, aligning the law with modern principles. Under the previous framework, if a persons driving license expired, the next day a driver faced criminal charges for being on the road. The new law provides a 30-day grace period. Consider also a small manufacturer who fails to update registration details under the Apprentices Act. Earlier, this was a criminal lapse but now strong action is allowed only for repeated non-compliance. Similarly, a procedural lapse in documentation by a mining company could earlier lead to imprisonment. Today, such cases attract civil penalties. Criminal liability remains for illegal mining, fraud, wilful harm, and serious violations of public interest; not for paperwork. 12 Years of gains for all The Jan Vishwas legislation is a symbol of PM Modis effort to ease life for all our citizens. This has been the key mission of PM Modi in his 12 years of service to the nation as Prime Minister, and earlier as Chief Minister of Gujarat. Jan Vishwas 2026 builds on an important foundation. In 2023, India decriminalised 183 provisions across 42 Acts through the first Jan Vishwas Act. That effort demonstrated that decriminalisation could improve governance without weakening enforcement. The 2026 legislation expands the exercise nearly fourfold, signalling that this is not a one-time initiative but a continuing reform direction. Larger mission - The new law is actually a part of the larger mission of PM Modi to improve the lives of Indians. In this mission, the PM has strived to provide roti, kapda aur makaan to every citizen and ensured that welfare expenditure is transferred directly to beneficiaries, unlike the days of Congress rule when the then PM Rajiv Gandhi said that only 15% of the money spent on welfare actually reached the poor. Replacing low-value criminal provisions with administrative and monetary frameworks is a welcome move not just for the ordinary citizen, it also helps small businesses. It allows enforcement agencies to focus on serious violations rather than routine technical breaches. Courts can devote their attention to cases that genuinely require judicial intervention. Economy and Investment - The benefits extend beyond governance. In an increasingly competitive global economy, regulatory credibility matters. For years, concerns about criminal prosecution for technical lapses were among the most frequently cited deterrents to investment. India has witnessed a 143 per cent increase in FDI between 2014 and 2025, and the trend of increasing FDI continues. Regulatory reform has been an important part of this growth. Jan Vishwas 2026 is designed to strengthen that momentum by making India a more predictable and reliable destination for investment and enterprise. The reform also offers relief to the justice system. Many of the more than 5.5 crore pending cases, including approximately 4.9 crore in district and subordinate courts, involve minor regulatory matters, which are now decriminalised. Moving such cases to administrative adjudication is not merely a business reform, it is a judicial reform that allows courts to focus their limited time and resources on serious disputes and questions of justice. Serious violations will continue to attract serious consequences. The law remains firm where firmness is necessary. What changes is the approach. Governance has moved from suspicion to trust, from prosecution to correction, and from fear to freedom. (The Author is the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Govt of India. Courtesy: PIB)
The Return of Kashmiri Pandits: Is Kashmir Finally Ready to Heal Its Deepest Wound?
Recent developments across Kashmir have offered a glimpse into such a possibility For more than three decades, the return of Kashmiri Pandits has remained one of the most difficult, emotional, and unresolved questions confronting Kashmir. It is a question that transcends politics, security, and policy frameworks because at its heart lies a deeper issuethe restoration of trust between people who once shared not only a homeland but also a common cultural destiny. Since the exodus of the Kashmiri Pandits in the early 1990s, successive governments have announced rehabilitation plans, employment packages, transit accommodations, and committees dedicated to facilitating their return. Political parties have repeatedly invoked the issue in their manifestos, and numerous debates have taken place at national and international levels. Yet, despite all these interventions, a meaningful and large-scale return has remained elusive. Perhaps this happened because the issue was approached primarily as an administrative challenge rather than a human one. Communities do not simply return because houses are constructed or financial incentives are offered. People return when they feel wanted. They return when fear is replaced by trust, when uncertainty is replaced by acceptance, and when society itself opens its arms and says, Come home. Recent developments across Kashmir have offered a glimpse into such a possibility. The increasing flow of Kashmiri Pandits visiting their ancestral villages to pay obeisance at their respective places of faith has become one of the most significant social developments witnessed in recent years. Thousands of Pandits have begun reconnecting with the sacred geography that shaped their identity for centuries. Temples that once stood silent and abandoned are witnessing the return of footsteps that had disappeared for decades. But these visits are far more than religious journeys. They are journeys of memory. Every temple bell carries echoes of childhood. Every pathway leading to a shrine carries stories of generations who once lived there. Every courtyard revives memories of festivals celebrated together, neighbours sharing meals, and communities living in a relationship built upon familiarity and mutual dependence. Perhaps what has touched many observers most profoundly is the role being played by local Muslims in these gatherings. At several places across the Valley, Muslims have voluntarily participated in making arrangements for visiting Pandits. They have cleaned temple premises, welcomed devotees, organised facilities, and ensured that their former neighbours feel comfortable and respected. These acts may appear simple on the surface, but their symbolic value is enormous. For decades, Kashmir has been burdened by narratives of separation, mistrust, and pain. Today, these gestures represent attempts to create a new narrativeone based upon reconciliation rather than resentment. Even more moving are the emotional scenes witnessed during these interactions. Old friends meeting after thirty or thirty-five years, elderly neighbours embracing each other with tears in their eyes, and families recalling memories of a shared past have become powerful reminders that the social fabric of Kashmir was wounded but never entirely destroyed. In many villages, Muslims still remember the names of the Pandit families who once lived there. They remember the homes they occupied, the festivals they celebrated together, and the bonds that once defined their everyday existence. This memory itself is significant. Civilizations survive not merely through monuments or historical records but through collective memory. As long as people remember one another with affection, the possibility of rebuilding relationships remains alive. For years, discussions surrounding the return of Kashmiri Pandits have revolved around security concerns. Certainly, security remains a non-negotiable prerequisite for any permanent resettlement. No community can be expected to return under circumstances where safety remains uncertain. However, security alone cannot guarantee successful reintegration. A person may feel physically secure and yet remain emotionally alienated. This distinction is often overlooked. The true success of any rehabilitation process will depend upon whether Kashmiri Pandits feel socially accepted once again. They must not return as isolated clusters living separately from the larger society. Such an arrangement may provide temporary accommodation, but it cannot restore a lost civilization. The essence of Kashmir has always been its pluralistic character. For centuries, Kashmir represented one of the finest examples of cultural coexistence in the Indian subcontinent. The Valley evolved through the interaction of multiple traditions, including ancient Hindu philosophies, Kashmiri Shaivism, Buddhism, and Sufism. These traditions collectively shaped what came to be known as Kashmiriyata spirit of tolerance, spirituality, and coexistence. The Kashmiri Pandits were not simply one among many communities inhabiting Kashmir; they were among the principal custodians of its intellectual and cultural heritage. Their contribution to philosophy, literature, education, language, administration, and art remains unparalleled. The exodus of the community in the 1990s, therefore, was not merely a demographic change. It represented a civilizational rupture. An ancient thread that had connected Kashmir to its historical roots was suddenly severed. The consequences of this rupture continue to be felt even today. The absence of Kashmiri Pandits has created a vacuum that extends far beyond numbers. Entire neighbourhoods lost their diversity. Villages lost their social balance. Shared traditions gradually disappeared. Collective memories became fragmented. In many ways, Kashmir itself became incomplete. Perhaps there is now a growing realization among ordinary Kashmiris that this incompleteness must be addressed. Many Muslims, especially younger generations, increasingly acknowledge that the return of Pandits is essential not merely for the Pandits themselves but for the restoration of Kashmir's own identity. This realization is both encouraging and necessary. The future of Kashmir cannot be built upon historical absences. Sustainable peace cannot emerge from permanent separation. Societies heal when they confront their wounds rather than ignore them. At the same time, sincerity must accompany symbolism. Welcoming gestures during annual religious events are undoubtedly encouraging, but they must gradually evolve into long-term commitments. The spirit of hospitality witnessed during such occasions must translate into sustained social engagement throughout the year. The return of Kashmiri Pandits must become a collective societal project rather than a seasonal event. This process will require immense patience. Three decades of displacement cannot be undone overnight. Trauma accumulated over generations cannot disappear through a few emotional reunions, however moving they may be. Fear leaves deep scars, and rebuilding confidence is often a slow and fragile process. Both communities will have to walk this journey together. The majority community has a particularly significant role to play in this regard. If Muslims openly and consistently facilitate the return of Pandits, reassure them through actions rather than words, and actively participate in their reintegration, a powerful message will emergenot only within Kashmir but throughout the world. Such a message would demonstrate that societies possess the capacity to heal themselves. At the same time, governments must continue fulfilling their responsibilities. Adequate security arrangements, employment opportunities, restoration of damaged properties wherever feasible, educational infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and economic support systems must accompany any long-term rehabilitation plan. The return must be dignified rather than symbolic. The ultimate objective should not simply be to increase the number of returning families but to recreate living, thriving communities where people feel rooted once again. Perhaps the greatest lesson emerging from recent interactions is that ordinary people may hold the key to solving an extraordinary problem. For years, politics has dominated the discourse surrounding Kashmir. Yet, some of the most meaningful breakthroughs are now emerging from simple human gesturesa handshake, an embrace, a smile, an invitation to share tea, or tears shed upon meeting a neighbour after decades. History repeatedly reminds us that reconciliation often begins at the grassroots level. Political agreements may establish frameworks, but societies heal through human relationships. There is a famous truth that applies profoundly to Kashmir today: a homeland is not merely a place where one owns property; it is a place where one feels emotionally anchored. For Kashmiri Pandits, Kashmir has always remained that homeland, irrespective of geography. Even after decades of displacement, their memories continue to revolve around its rivers, temples, mountains, villages, and seasons. Similarly, for many Muslims who remained in Kashmir, there exists a silent recognition that something precious was lost when their Pandit neighbours departed. Perhaps both communities are now beginning to rediscover this shared truth. If these people-to-people interactions continue to deepen, if mutual trust continues to grow, and if the majority community genuinely facilitates the return of Pandits not as outsiders but as integral members of Kashmiri society, then the long-standing notion that there can be no return may gradually lose its relevance. The possibility of return will no longer remain a distant dream but an emerging reality. The return of Kashmiri Pandits is not a question of demographics. It is not merely a question of policy or governance. It is a question of restoring a civilisation. It is about healing one of the deepest wounds in Kashmir's modern history. It is about rebuilding a fractured soul. And perhaps, for the first time in many years, one can cautiously ask a hopeful question: Is Kashmir finally ready to bring back a missing part of itself? If the answer increasingly comes from the people themselves, then history may yet witness one of the most remarkable reconciliations of our times. (The Author is RK Columnist and can be reached at: sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com)
Hidden Cost of Animal Diseases in Rural India
Healthy, disease-free, and resistant livestock and crops are pivotal to protecting a nation's food security SILENT EPIDEMIC Food security According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), food security exists when every person has regular access to sufficient, safe, nutritious food to meet dietary needs and choices for an active, healthy life. It has four main pillars: availability, accessibility, utilisation, and stability. Importance of Food Security Food security is important for the health and development of every individual in a population. It helps prevent malnutrition, hunger, and diet-related diseases by providing a healthy, nutritious diet. It promotes economic development by reducing health-related issues and increasing workforce efficiency. It also promotes social order by reducing migration, unrest, and community conflicts driven by food shortages. Food security helps in improving national security. A population with a secure food supply is less affected by crises caused by natural disasters, conflicts, and supply disruptions. The Role of Livestock in Food Security Livestock is very important for global food security as it generates approximately 40% of the global value of agricultural output and also supplies 33% of human protein consumption. Livestock provides milk, meat, and eggs, which are highly rich in protein, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and calcium. Their daily consumption advances individual development in both cognitive and physical domains. Livestock boosts agricultural development through manure and draught power and serves as an alternative source of food during crop failures. Grazing animals can convert otherwise unproductive vegetation into a food source. Animal health is an important component of food security because healthier livestock leads to more food production and better efficiency. Disease-free animals lead to disease-free humans. An important but often overlooked aspect of animal health in relation to food security is that healthy livestock reduces the transmission of zoonotic diseases, thereby protecting public health, preventing production losses, and ensuring a safe and secure food supply. Animal health directly affects productivity, food safety, public health, and a nation's broader food security. Diseases in animals lead to poor growth, reduced milk yields, compromised reproductive performance, lower meat output, and higher mortality. These outcomes reduce food availability, lower farmers' incomes, and threaten rural livelihoods. Consequently, maintaining healthy livestock is central to both the quality and quantity of animal-origin food. However, the increased presence of drug residues, particularly antimicrobials, which are associated with the emergence of multidrug-resistant microbes, poses a threat to human, animal, plant, and environmental health. Disease surveillance and systematic monitoring are critical for detecting, containing, and controlling animal diseases before they intensify. Surveillance involves continuous collection, analysis, and interpretation of animal health data to identify outbreaks, track prevalence, and spot emerging infections. Effective systems enable timely responses to zoonotic threats such as Brucellosis, Rabies, Avian Influenza, and Bovine Tuberculosis that endanger both animal and human health. Core components include routine health checks, mandatory reporting, laboratory diagnostics, monitoring of vaccination coverage, quarantine and movement controls, and epidemiological investigations. Good hygiene and sanitation are also mandatory for healthy livestock. According to a report published in The Times of India on 23rd November 2023, pests and livestock diseases are a major challenge, accounting for 35% of the economic losses in Indias livestock sector. The article highlights that Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) alone results in an annual loss of Rs 23,000 crore, while Brucellosis causes a loss of Rs 20,000 crore each year. These massive losses underscore the urgent need for robust animal health management and disease control strategies. The data, originally derived from Dr. Rahmans study at ICAR-NIVEDI, Bengaluru, highlight the significant economic impact of animal diseases on the livestock sector and their wider implications for national food security. Role of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Agriculture has a major impact on food security, as it is a primary source of food supply and livelihoods. Agriculture provides basic availability of essential nutrients required for a healthy life. Fruits, vegetables, and pulses help reduce or overcome global malnutrition. Rice, wheat, maize, pulses, and oilseeds provide access to energy and protein. Good crop management practices preserve soil fertility, use water efficiently, and enhance cropping systems, all of which remain essential for increasing productivity and resilience to climatic stresses. Newly developed high-yielding varieties of fruits, cereals, and other crops can increase production and improve a nation's food security. Further, healthy, resistant crops and horticulture varieties lead to a decreased incidence of diseases and pests, reducing production losses and thereby augmenting the food security of a nation as a whole. Resistant and elite varieties and strains of crops pave the way for reduced use of chemicals, hormones, pesticides, and fertilisers, thereby improving the quality of plant foods in terms of food safety, security, and overall environmental safety. Fisheries and aquaculture development are important for providing high-quality nutrition, particularly high-quality protein and essential fatty acids like omega-3s, which are important for brain development and overall health. Fisheries are important sources of employment, particularly in coastal and inland regions, consequently reducing pressure on other food sources. Forestry contributes directly and indirectly to food security by producing non-timber edible products such as fruits, mushrooms, nuts, and medicinal plants. Healthy forests prevent soil erosion, regulate the climate, conserve water and biodiversity, provide economic benefits, improve air quality, protect against natural disasters, support livestock production, and thus support food security. Supplementary and complementary role of livestock and allied sectors in promoting food security: Livestock supports agriculture by providing manure and crops used in animal feeding, thus supporting each other. Agriculture supplies residues and by-products used in animal fodder. Thus, healthier, more efficient livestock and better agricultural methods promote a nation's food production not only in quantity but also in safety and quality. To realise the full potential of livestock, agriculture, forestry, and aquaculture, it is necessary to address factors such as degraded natural resources, post-harvest losses, poor infrastructure, limited market access, and climate change. Besides proper preservation, processing and storage are important for reducing damage to livestock and agricultural produce, thereby enhancing a nation's food security. Policy priorities include encouraging efficient production practices and climate-smart agriculture; investing in value chains, including cold-chain storage, processing, and marketing; supporting small-scale producers; extending credit and insurance schemes; and ensuring diversification across livestock, agriculture, fisheries, and crops. Nevertheless, strengthening natural resource governance to balance food production alongside ecological conservation is also essential. National food security is important for a nation's development and prosperity. It enables the nation to remain self-sufficient, thereby protecting and defending its sovereignty. Livestock, agriculture, and allied sectors are essential to a nation's food security. Thus, healthy, disease-free, and resistant livestock and crops are pivotal to protecting a nation's food security. Thus, major emphasis needs to be placed on promoting and propagating healthier, higher-quality livestock and crop production. Various challenges in the current scenario endangering the livestock and agriculture, thus indirectly harming the national food security, include excessive use of drugs, hormones, pesticides, chemicals, etc. in intensive farming systems, climate and environmental pollution, growing urbanisation and industrialisation, emerging and re-emerging diseases in livestock, deforestation, and desertification. Addressing the above challenges can greatly enhance a nation's food security. India, primarily being an agricultural country with most of its population dependent on livestock and agriculture, thus addressing the above challenges concurrently with the modernization can also upgrade and improve the economic and aesthetic status, preserve the cultural heritage of a nation, besides raising the health standard of citizens and improving the workforce efficiency of its population. (The Author is HOD Veterinary Medicine, SKUAST Kashmir)
Locals seek renovation of Zulfiqar Ali viewpoint in Uri
Srinagar, June 23: Residents of Garkote village in Uri area of north Kashmirs Baramulla district have urged the authorities to undertake immediate renovation of the Zulfiqar Ali Viewpoint, a popular tourist and trekking spot overlooking Uri town. The viewpoint, constructed by the Tourism Department more than a decade ago, was later dedicated to noted social activist and government teacher Zulfiqar Ali Khawaja, who lost his life in a tragic accident near the site on June 25, 2020. A delegation of local residents said the viewpoint has fallen into disrepair and requires urgent attention. They pointed out that the facility lacks adequate seating arrangements and basic maintenance. The fencing around the viewpoint does not have a proper gate, allowing stray animals to enter and defecate inside the premises. The site also requires whitewashing and general upkeep, said a local resident. He added that the deteriorating condition of the viewpoint is affecting its appeal and discouraging visitors from spending time there. Another resident said garbage is frequently dumped near the viewpoint, creating an unpleasant environment. The accumulation of waste emits a foul smell and diminishes the beauty of the place. Proper waste management measures are needed to keep the area clean, he said. The locals further suggested that providing an electricity connection and installing lighting facilities would significantly enhance the attractiveness of the viewpoint, particularly during the evening hours. The Zulfiqar Ali Viewpoint serves as the first halt for trekkers heading towards the revered Baba Fareed Shrine and Kandi Peak. Perched atop a hill in Garkote village, the site offers breathtaking panoramic views of Uri town and the bordering areas along the Line of Control (LoC). Residents have appealed to the Tourism Department and district administration to restore and upgrade the viewpoint so that it can continue to attract tourists, trekkers and local visitors. Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Uri, Prince Kumar told Rising Kashmir that he will look into the matter.
Prof Rukhsana Najeeb Gets Additional Charge in Health Department
Srinagar, Jun 23: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has assigned Prof. (Dr.) Rukhsana Najeeb, Professor, Department of Anesthesiology, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, the charge of Secretary (Technical), Health and Medical Education Department with immediate effect. According to Government Order No. 506-JK (HME) of 2026, issued by the Health and Medical Education Department on June 23, the arrangement has been made in the interest of administration and will remain in force until further orders. The order clarifies that the assignment of charge shall not confer any right on the officer to claim regular appointment, seniority, promotion, or any other service benefits attached to the post, which will continue to be governed by the relevant rules and regulations.
FFRC Headless Since May, Parents and Schools Face Delays
Srinagar, June 23: The Fee Fixation and Regulatory Committee (FFRC), Jammu and Kashmir, has been functioning without a chairperson for nearly two months, causing difficulties for both parents and private school managements across the Union Territory. Former FFRC Chairperson, Justice Sunil Hali, retired at the end of March 2026. The Jammu and Kashmir Government subsequently granted him a one-month extension until the end of April. However, since May 2026, the post has remained vacant, leading to a backlog of complaints and pending cases. Parents who have approached the committee regarding fee hikes by private schools said their grievances remain unresolved due to the absence of a chairperson. A parent, speaking to Rising Kashmir, said that complaints submitted since May are still pending. The FFRC was established to address issues faced by parents, particularly concerning school fees. After the retirement of the chairperson, there is no authority available to take effective action against private schools or resolve parents concerns, he said. He alleged that some private schools are taking advantage of the situation by increasing fees arbitrarily. Parents are already burdened by the high cost of education. In the absence of a functioning regulatory mechanism, schools are hiking fees at their own discretion, he added. The vacancy has also affected private school managements seeking approval of their fee structures. A private school owner from Baramulla district said that his institutions fee proposal remains pending before the committee. I submitted my file to the FFRC for fee approval, but due to the non-availability of the chairperson, all such cases across Jammu and Kashmir are pending. The committee cannot approve revised fee structures without the chairpersons authorization, he said. He urged the government to either appoint a new chairperson immediately or extend the tenure of the former chairperson until a replacement is selected. During his tenure, Justice Sunil Hali oversaw the fixation of fees for 2,799 private schools across Jammu and Kashmir. Following his retirement, more than 1,200 applications and files related to fee approvals are reportedly awaiting clearance. In the union territory nearly 6,000 private schools in Jammu and Kashmir fall under the ambit of the FFRC, which determines and regulates school fees on the basis of audited financial reports submitted by educational institutions.
Parents Must Discourage Underage Driving: DySP Traffic
Urges motorists to refrain from wrong parking Srinagar, June 23: Deputy Superintendent of Police (Traffic), Baramulla, has urged parents not to hand over motorcycles and other vehicles to underage children, warning that rash driving, riding without a valid licence, and dangerous overtaking are emerging as major causes of road accidents across the Valley. Speaking to Rising Kashmir the traffic officer said that many accidents occur due to negligence and violation of traffic rules, putting not only the lives of young riders at risk but also those of other road users. Parents should not feel proud by handing over bikes and vehicles to underage children. Rash driving, riding without a licence, and reckless overtaking can have serious consequences. These practices endanger lives and often lead to tragic accidents, he said. The officer stressed that the Traffic Police regularly conducts awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, and public places to educate people about road safety and the harmful effects of rash driving. He said the department continuously works to spread awareness among motorists and pedestrians regarding the importance of following traffic regulations. We keep conducting awareness programmes and inform people about the dangers of rash driving. Along with awareness, we also impose fines and issue challans against violators. However, public cooperation is equally important in ensuring safer roads, he said. The DySP further said that parents have a crucial responsibility in preventing road accidents by ensuring that their children do not drive vehicles without licences or proper documentation. It is the responsibility of parents not to allow their children to drive vehicles without a valid licence, he added. Highlighting the unpredictable nature of accidents, the officer said that mishaps do not come with a warning and can occur at any time. He urged citizens to act responsibly and strictly follow traffic laws. The officer also appealed to motorists to avoid wrong parking, which often causes traffic congestion and inconvenience to commuters. He urged pedestrians to use designated footpaths wherever available instead of walking on roads. The DySP Traffic Baramulla emphasized that the success of road safety initiatives depends on active public participation and cooperation.
