ACB traps SMC inspector with Rs 10,000 bribe in Srinagar
Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday said it had trapped and arrested a Junior Building Inspector of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) for allegedly demanding and accepting a Rs 10,000 bribe from a complainant. In a statement, a spokesperson said the J&K Anti-Corruption Bureau received a written complaint alleging that Gazala []
ACB Traps SMC Junior Building Inspector for 10,000 Bribe
Srinagar, August 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday trapped and arrested Gazala Akhter, Junior Building Inspector, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Ward No. 28, for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of 10,000 from a complainant. According to the ACB, a written complaint was received alleging that Akhter had demanded illegal gratification in connection with the construction of two structures, despite the complainant having obtained the requisite building permission from the competent authority. The complainant further alleged that the accused official was deliberately delaying and obstructing the ongoing construction, allegedly with the intention of putting pressure on him to pay the demanded amount. Following the complaint, the ACB conducted a discreet verification, which prima facie substantiated the allegations. Subsequently, FIR No. 11/2026 was registered at Police Station ACB Srinagar under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and an investigation was initiated. During the investigation, the ACB constituted a trap team. The team subsequently laid a trap and apprehended Gazala Akhter red-handed while allegedly demanding and accepting 10,000 from the complainant. The bribe amount was recovered from her possession in the presence of independent witnesses, following which she was taken into custody. The ACB said that further investigation in the case is underway.
Jammu Kashmir ACB Traps SMC Building Inspector While Accepting Rs 10,000 Bribe
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Thursday trapped a Junior Building Inspector of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) while allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 10,000 from a complainant. The accused, Gazala Akhter, posted as Junior Building Inspector in SMC Ward No. 28, Srinagar, allegedly demanded the bribe in connection []
Jammu Kashmir Assembly Staff Protests Against Deputation of JKAS Officer
SRINAGAR: Employees of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Thursday staged a protest inside the Assembly premises against a General Administration Department (GAD) order deputing KAS officer Bilal Ahmad Mir to the Assembly Secretariat. The protesting employees raised slogans and objected to the deputation, saying the move was contrary to the established rules and []
Trump Threatens Tougher Economic Measures Against Iran, Its Allies
US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose sweeping new economic penalties on Iran and countries that continue to provide financial, commercial or logistical support to Tehran. Trump said the measures would amount to the toughest economic campaign ever imposed against a country, but did not specify the countries that could be targeted or outline []
Jammu Kashmir Food Department Tightens Rules on Transfers, Seeks Prior Approval for All Postings
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs has directed all its Directors and Heads of Offices to refrain from issuing transfer and posting orders without prior approval of the Administrative Department. The directions have been issued through Circular No. 06-JK(FCS&CA) of 2026 following observations that several transfer and posting []
Congress Ex-MP Sajjan Kumar Dies While Serving Life Sentence in 1984 Sikh Massacre Case
NEW DELHI, Aug 20: Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar, convicted for his role in the 1984 Sikh Massacre, died on Thursday at the age of 80 after being brought from Tihar Jail to Delhis Safdarjung Hospital, where he was declared dead. Kumar was serving a life sentence in Tihar Jail in connection with the killing [] The post Congress Ex-MP Sajjan Kumar Dies While Serving Life Sentence in 1984 Sikh Massacre Case appeared first on Northlines .
Drug Addiction Treatment Cases in Jammu Kashmir Rise From 5,382 to 46,491 in Five Years
SRINAGAR: The number of people treated for drug addiction at centres supported by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir has increased nearly nine-fold in five years, rising from 5,382 in 2021-22 to 46,491 in 2025-26. The figures were disclosed by the Ministry in Rajya Sabha in response to a []
Assembly staff protests against deputation of KAS officer
Srinagar: Employees of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Wednesday staged a protest inside the Assembly premises here against the General Administration Department (GAD) order deputing Deputy Secretary Bilal Ahmad Mir. Raising slogans, the protesting employees said the deputation order was against established rules and administrative procedures governing the Assembly Secretariat. They urged the []
After Kashmir Visit, US Ambassador Sergio Gor Arrives In Leh
SRINAGAR, Aug 20: US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor arrived in Leh on Thursday on his maiden visit to Ladakh, a day after meeting Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar, officials said. An official said that Gor left Srinagar for Leh this morning. The US envoy arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday and [] The post After Kashmir Visit, US Ambassador Sergio Gor Arrives In Leh appeared first on Northlines .
Shah Faesal Gets 2-Year Extension As Deputy Secretary In Culture Ministry
Srinagar:The Central government has extended the deputation tenure of IAS officer Shah Faesal. According to an Office Memorandum issued by the Department of Personnel and Training, Government of India, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Culture for extension in the central deputation tenure of Shah Faesal, IAS []
Jammu Kashmir-Cadre IAS Officer Gets Two-Year Central Deputation Extension
SRINAGAR:The Central Government has approved a two-year extension of the central deputation tenure of Shah Faesal, IAS (AGMUT:2010), who is serving as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Culture. The extension, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, will continue from September 19, 2026, until September 18, 2028, or until further orders, whichever is []
IEI Jammu Kashmir Delegation Meets New NIT Srinagar Director
SRINAGAR: A delegation of the Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu and Kashmir State Centre, led by its chairman Er Ferdous Ahad Bhat, FIE, on Thursday met newly appointed NIT Srinagar Director Prof Anurag Misra, FIE, and discussed ways to strengthen collaboration between the two institutions. The delegation welcomed Prof Misra on his new assignment and []
Woman Dies After SUV Collides With Tata Mobile in Central Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A 45-year-old woman died after an SUV collided with a Tata Mobile vehicle in the Akhal area of Kangan in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Thursday. Officials said the accident occurred when a Scorpio collided with a Tata Mobile near Akhal, leaving the woman seriously injured. The injured woman was shifted to Sub-District Hospital []
After Srinagar visit, US Envoy Sergio Gor reaches Leh
Leh: US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor arrived in Leh on Thursday on his maiden visit to Ladakh, a day after meeting Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar, officials said. An official said that Gor left Srinagar for Leh this morning. The US envoy arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday and met CM []
Unauthorized Structures Outside Pakistan High Commission Removed in Delhi
NEW DELHI, Aug 20: Authorities have removed unauthorised structures, including queue-management barriers, erected outside the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, official sources said on Thursday. The structures, including queue liners installed near the commissions visa section, were located on a lane outside the approved boundary of the diplomatic compound and were removed as part [] The post Unauthorized Structures Outside Pakistan High Commission Removed in Delhi appeared first on Northlines .
Land Subsidence Damages 12 Houses in J
Jammu, August 20: Around 12 houses have been damaged, including two that suffered severe damage, after land subsidence struck Kheri village in Jammu district, also affecting agricultural land and a road, officials said. The incident has triggered panic among residents of Kheri and adjoining areas of Bantalab, where renewed land-sinking activity has been reported. The [] The post Land Subsidence Damages 12 Houses in J&Ks Kheri Village appeared first on Northlines .
Body recovered from Nowshera river
Rajouri, Aug 20: An unidentified body was recovered from a river in the Nowshera area of Rajouri district on Thursday, officials said. An official said that locals engaged in contract-related work spotted the body floating in the river and informed the police. He said a police team along with personnel from the SDRF reached the spot and recovered the body from the river. The body has been taken into custody, while the identity of the deceased has not been ascertained, he said, adding that the body is in a decomposed condition, making identification difficult. Meanwhile, an investigation has been taken up and a probe has begun.(KNO)
Srinagar, Aug 20: Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari has welcomed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gors remarks describing Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India and an incredibly beautiful place, saying the comments are significant and could help strengthen recognition of J&Ks place within India while opening avenues for greater US engagement, including a possible review of its travel advisory for the region. In a post on X, Altaf Bukhari wrote, US Ambassador Sergio Gors recognition that J&K is an important part of India is highly significant. It reflects Washingtons acknowledgement of Indias position on Jammu and Kashmir. One hopes that Gors remarks will also help raise awareness in our country and strengthen the case for ensuring that J&K receives the rights, attention, and recognition it deserves as an equal and important part of the nation, he added. He further wrote, The Ambassadors indication that Washington could review its travel advisory for J&K is also significant. It gives hope and reflects a recognition of the positive changes taking place on the ground in Jammu and Kashmir. Sergio Gor rightly described J&K as an incredibly beautiful place. His remarks are encouraging and give hope that the US could support efforts to further explore and develop the vast potential of this region, Bukhari said. I urge the Central Government to explore ways to secure technological support from the US to unlock the potential of various sectors in J&K. For instance, we could consider introducing advanced American horticultural technologies that are being used to improve productivity. These technologies use modern tools such as smart automation, precision sensors, and robotics to increase crop yields while conserving water, the post reads. Overall, the US diplomats visit to J&K was highly encouraging and significant, with implications that go beyond the immediate diplomatic engagement, he added.
Vande Bharat touches 100 kmph on worlds highest Chenab bridge
Jammu, Aug 20 : The Vande Bharat train has, for the first time, operated at a speed of nearly 100 kmph on the worlds highest railway bridge over the Chenab River, following the Railway Ministrys approval to increase the maximum permissible speed on the Katra-Banihal rail section. Details available with the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), said the approval allows trains to run at speeds of up to 100 kmph on the 111-kilometre-long new Broad Gauge rail section between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Banihal under the Jammu Division of Northern Railway. Earlier, the permissible speed was 85 kmph on the Katra-Sangaldan section and 75 kmph on the Sangaldan-Banihal section. Northern Railway has also said the speed enhancement was approved after ensuring compliance with all prescribed safety conditions. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal, told KNO that the increase in speed would reduce travel time and further strengthen connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir. The move would provide passengers with faster, safer and more comfortable travel while also boosting tourism, trade and economic activities in the region, he said. It is worth mentioning that, with the revised speed limit, travel time between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Banihal is expected to reduce further.(KNO)
Vande Bharat touches 100 kmph on world
Jammu: The Vande Bharat train has, for the first time, operated at a speed of nearly 100 kmph on the worlds highest railway bridge over the Chenab River, following the Railway Ministrys approval to increase the maximum permissible speed on the Katra-Banihal rail section. Approval allows trains to run at speeds of up to 100 []
SRINAGAR: The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) have put forward a set of non-negotiable demands ahead of their proposed dialogue with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in September, insisting that any future arrangement for Ladakh must address its political, financial and constitutional concerns. The two organisations submitted a joint memorandum []
Trump says US, Canada have trade deal, but key terms remain unclear
Canada has dodged President Donald Trump's threat of 50 -per cent tariffs - at least for now. Trump went on social media late Tuesday to say he was pausing for three days the taxes on USD 20 billion worth of Canadian imports less than two hours before they were set to go into effect. Speaking to reporters at the White House Wednesday, Trump said that talks with Canada yielded a very fair deal for both sides. Our farmers are going to be thrilled, our manufacturers are going to be thrilled, Trump said in an impromptu gaggle during a tour of South Lawn construction. Trump also noted that the agreement is all subject to the finalization of documents. For now, the tariffs have been postponed until 12:01 am Saturday. Dominic LeBlanc, the minister responsible for Canada-US trade, returned to Ottawa on Wednesday to meet Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who was also set to chair Cabinet and a virtual meeting with provincial and territorial leaders. Trump's tariff threat would hit
Age controversy around BCCI Chief reopens old wounds in JKCA
Jammu, Aug 19: A court-ordered preliminary inquiry into allegations concerning the date of birth of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Mithun Manhas has reopened a much larger and deeply uncomfortable debate over transparency, accountability and the continued influence of entrenched interests within cricket administration in Jammu and Kashmir. A Special Railway Magistrates Court in Jammu has directed the Station House Officer (SHO) of Police Station Nowabad to conduct a preliminary inquiry into a complaint filed by former Joint Honorary Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association, Sudershan Mehta, and submit a report before the court by September 3. The complaint alleges that Manhas furnished different dates of birth at different stages of his cricketing career and that the date allegedly used for junior level cricket differed from the date recorded in his school records. The complainant has cited information purportedly obtained from Maharaja Hari Singh Agriculture Collegiate School, Nagbani, Jammu, which records Manhass date of birth as December 9, 1977, while the Delhi and District Cricket Association website has reportedly listed October 12, 1979. The court, while directing the preliminary inquiry, observed that under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, a preliminary inquiry may be required before registration of a cognizable offence in such circumstances. The allegations remain unproven at this stage, and the police inquiry will establish whether there is sufficient material to proceed further. But the case has already triggered a more consequential question in the cricketing circles of J&K: has the cricket administration in the Union Territory ever applied its standards of integrity, eligibility and accountability consistently, irrespective of who is involved? The question becomes particularly pertinent because allegations of age and eligibility manipulation are not entirely new to Jammu and Kashmir cricket. In an earlier case involving another J&K cricketer, similar allegations were reportedly made regarding his age and eligibility for junior level cricket. The matter reached the Crime Branch of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, which reportedly registered an FIR after examining the allegations. Yet the case was subsequently withdrawn on behalf of the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association by a then senior subcommittee member. What followed has continued to raise eyebrows among sections of the cricket fraternity. Despite the seriousness of the allegations and the reported intervention of the Crime Branch, the same cricketer was subsequently seen making his way back into the J&K cricket establishment. His reported re-entry has fuelled allegations that institutional doors can be reopened for individuals who have faced serious questions, provided they enjoy the backing of influential elements within the system. For years, players, coaches and cricket followers have questioned the persistence of an old power structure within the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association. Despite changes in office bearers and administrative arrangements, critics allege that the same individuals and networks continue to exercise considerable influence over the associations functioning. The allegations extend from administration and player selection to the appointment of support staff and procurement, creating a perception that control over the association remains concentrated in the hands of a small and well-established group. Questions have also been raised over the reported continuation of individuals in influential positions despite having crossed prescribed age limits. In one such case, a senior subcommittee member is reportedly over 70 years of age but is alleged to have remained interested in securing or retaining a lucrative position within the association. Critics view such arrangements as another indication of an entrenched lobby determined to preserve its influence. The central concern among cricket enthusiasts is therefore not merely who occupies a particular post. It is whether the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association has genuinely broken with the culture of closed-door decision making that has dominated its affairs for years. The frustration is palpable as the cricket followers have watched the same names, networks and power centres remain relevant through successive administrative arrangements, while questions concerning accountability, transparency, selection, appointments and financial decisions continue to surface. The situation has left many stakeholders asking a fundamental question: if the same people continue to control administration, selection, appointments and procurement, what has actually changed in the governance of Jammu and Kashmir cricket? The courts direction in the Mithun Manhas matter now places another sensitive issue under official scrutiny. It also provides an opportunity for the authorities to demonstrate that allegations relating to age manipulation, eligibility and sporting integrity will be examined impartially, regardless of the stature or position of the individual concerned. For the cricket fraternity of Jammu and Kashmir, the demand is increasingly straightforward. They want a cricket administration where rules are applied uniformly, selection is based on merit, appointments are transparent, procurement is accountable and no individual or lobby is allowed to exercise unchecked influence over the game.
Cycling spirit soars as KU hosts annual inter-collegiate cycle races
Srinagar, Aug 19: The Directorate of Physical Education and Sports (DPES), University of Kashmir (KU), organised the Annual Inter-Collegiate Men & Women Cycle Races as part of its Annual Sports Calendar. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing more than 20 affiliated colleges of the University, along with postgraduate students from KU. The races provided the participants an opportunity to showcase their sporting prowess along the Boulevard Road while enjoying the scenic surroundings of the Dal Lake. The Mens Cycle Race was flagged off from Lalit Grand Palace, while the Womens Cycle Race commenced from Nishat Garden. Both races culminated at the Universitys Rumi Gate. The races were flagged off by Director, DPES, KU, Prof. Raies Qadri. Speaking at the concluding ceremony, Prof. Raies Qadri congratulated the participants for their enthusiastic participation and highlighted the importance of promoting cycling and active lifestyles among young people. Cycling is an important means of promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and a healthy lifestyle. In line with the Prime Ministers clarion call for mass cycling and the Khelo Bharat Niti 2025, we encourage our students to make cycling and regular physical activity an integral part of their daily lives, Prof. Qadri said. He highlighted the various physical and mental benefits of cycling and urged students to incorporate cycling and other forms of regular physical activity into their daily routines. A medal ceremony was subsequently held at Ground B of the Main Campus, where medals and participation certificates were distributed among the podium finishers by Prof. Raies Qadri. Students from the Universitys Shri Pran Krishan Kaul Institute of Music & Fine Arts enthralled the participants and guests with their melodious musical performances during the ceremony. In the Mens Cycle Race, Tasleem Muhammad of Gandhi College, Srinagar, clinched the Gold Medal with a timing of 19:47, while Hamed Arshid of Islamia College, Srinagar, secured Silver with 20:00. Muhammad Tahir Mir of GDC Beerwah won the Bronze Medal, clocking 26:48. In the Womens Cycle Race, Muskaan Naseer of Womens College Zakura bagged the Gold Medal with a timing of 18:20. Adfara Alam of GDC Pampore secured Silver with 18:36, while Pakeeza Ashraf of GDC Ganderbal won the Bronze Medal, clocking 19:33.
2-day seminar on GST Reforms 2.0: Sectoral Growth Prospects and Challenges begin at CUK
Ganderbal, Aug 19: Department of Commerce, School of Business Studies, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi, began a two-day national seminar on GST Reforms 2.0: Sectoral Growth Prospects and Challenges, at the Tulmulla campus here Wednesday. Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, said the introduction of GST represented a significant transformation of Indias indirect tax system, while the subsequent reforms were aimed at addressing emerging challenges and making the system more responsive to the needs of citizens and businesses. He called for a balanced approach in which taxation supports economic activity while encouraging environmental consciousness, social responsibility and responsible consumption. Prof. Nath highlighted the importance of examining GST reforms from the perspective of different income groups and sectors, particularly agriculture, manufacturing and services. CUK VC expressed hope that the deliberations would result in substantive recommendations capable of contributing to policy discourse and could eventually be placed before the appropriate authorities, including the GST Council. Vice-Chancellor, Ravenshaw University, Prof. (Dr.) Arka Das Mohapatra, who was the chief guest on the occasion, appreciated CUK for creating a platform where academic knowledge, policy experience and field-level perspectives could converge. He noted that taxation ultimately affects the everyday lives of citizens and, therefore, the success of tax reform should be assessed not merely by the sophistication of its structure but by whether its benefits reach ordinary people. Prof. Mohapatra called for greater attention to affordability, quality of services, environmental responsibility and socially conscious taxation. He suggested that taxation policies could encourage environmentally responsible manufacturing and healthier consumption patterns, while ensuring that essential goods remain affordable for economically vulnerable sections of society. Additional Commissioner, Sales Tax, J&K, Parvez Ahmed Raina, explained the practical dimensions of implementing GST Reforms 2.0. He identified three key features of the reform processsimpler rate architecture, sectoral rationalisation and a new phase of compliance. Raina said that while the rationalisation of rates could enhance affordability and purchasing power, its implementation also presented challenges relating to rate transitions, classification, input tax credit (ITC), refunds and registration. He emphasized that tax administration had to respond to these challenges through technological intervention, analytical tools and stronger monitoring mechanisms. Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, said that GST has evolved into a significant component of India's economic architecture and that the reforms under GST 2.0 needed to be assessed not merely as a rate-rationalisation exercise but in terms of their wider impact on economic growth, consumption, businesses and households. Dean, School of Business Studies, Prof. Syed Zahoor Ahmad Geelani, observed that GST was conceived with the objective of creating a unified national market and simplifying the complex indirect taxation structure that had previously confronted businesses with multiple taxes and compliance requirements. Head, Deptt of Commerce and seminar Convenor, Dr. Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, said the seminar was conceived as a platform to critically examine the immediate and emerging implications of GST Reforms 2.0 through a research-oriented and interdisciplinary approach. Prof. Nisar Ali Head, Deptt of Economics, KU and Prof S. M Shafi Former Head, Department of Commerce, KU were present. Asst Prof. Dr. Rizwana Rafiq, conducted the programme and Dr. Arfa Zahoor, proposed the vote of thanks.
KMCH Sempora organises CME on womens mental health
The Department of Psychiatry, Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, on Wednesday organised a Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme titled Real Life, Real Stories: A CME on Womens Mental Health at the colleges conference room. The programme was attended by Managing Director KMCH Tausif Ahmad, Executive Director Insha Qazi, Principal KMC Prof. Nazir Ahmad Khan, Dr Mantasha Binti Rashid, JKAS Officer who is currently posted as General Manager, Industries & Commerce, District Ganderbal and Registrar, Land Revenue, Ganderbal, was the guest speaker, Chairman SSM College of Engineering Dr Qazi Shabir Ahmad, Medical Superintendent Dr Syed Mubashir, HoDs of various departments, faculty members, doctors and other healthcare professionals. Speaking on the occasion, Executive Director Insha Qazi said that alongside the CME, KMCH has introduced several specialised mental health services aimed at making mental healthcare more accessible and responsive to the needs of different sections of society. She said the hospital has introduced a Polysomnography Clinic, EEG support and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for insomnia, besides a dedicated Workplace Burnout Clinic for KMCH staff. The clinic is managed by experienced psychiatrists and psychologists and focuses on identifying and addressing work-related stress and burnout. She added that KMCH has also established a Womens Emotional Wellness Clinic, with a special focus on pregnancy-related mental health concerns and postpartum depression, as well as a self-help group for women going through menopause. The Executive Director said KMCH has further introduced a Mind Check-Up, a confidential 15-minute screening service for stress, anxiety, mood, sleep and burnout. The Sleep Clinic addresses concerns such as insomnia, disturbed sleep, nightmares, excessive sleeping and screen-related sleep problems, while the Student and Young Adult Clinic focuses on exam anxiety, concentration difficulties, bullying, gaming and screen dependence, relationship stress and adjustment-related issues. She said the Memory and Healthy Ageing Clinic provides memory assessment, dementia support and counselling for caregivers. Insha Qazi said KMCH is committed to transforming mental healthcare by providing specialised services supported by modern, state-of-the-art facilities and a team of trained mental health professionals. The CME focused on various aspects of womens mental health, including depression, the unique mental health challenges faced by women, and the biological, psychological and social factors associated with different stages of womanhood. Head of the Department of Psychiatry, KMCH, Prof. (Dr) Mohammad Maqbool, spoke about the growing burden of depression and discussed its various dimensions, symptoms and impact on womens overall well-being Dr Mantasha Binti Rashid spoke on Womens Mental Health: A Denied and Ignored Reality of Our Society, highlighting social stigma, lack of awareness and other factors that often prevent women from seeking timely mental healthcare. Her presentation was well received by the audience. Dr Muhasin Mujtaba, Senior Resident, Department of Psychiatry, KMCH, shared insights into The Unique Landscape of Womens Mental Health, focusing on the specific psychological challenges women may experience across different stages of life. Dr Shazia Kouser, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, KMCH, delivered a presentation on Challenges of Womanhood: Biology and Beyond Biology, exploring the biological, psychological and social factors that influence womens mental health.
Prof. Anurag Misra assumes charge as Dir, NIT Srinagar
Srinagar, Aug 19: Prof. Anurag Misra on Wednesday assumed charge as Director of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, succeeding Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, in accordance with the orders of the Ministry of Education. Prof. Misra was warmly received by Dean R&C, along with outgoing Director Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia. After assuming charge, Prof. Misra held a meeting with the Deans and Heads of Departments. He sought inputs from the academic leadership and assured that genuine concerns would be examined and addressed on priority. Addressing the Deans and HoDs, Prof. Misra said the institutes students, faculty and staff must remain at the centre of all institutional efforts. Our collective priority should be to strengthen NIT Srinagar as an institution of excellence. Every decision and initiative must ultimately contribute to better opportunities for our students, stronger academic and research outcomes, and a more efficient and responsive institutional system, he said. Prof. Misra assured the institute community of his full support and called for collective efforts to achieve institutional goals. An institution can progress only when its faculty, officers, staff and students work together with a shared sense of purpose. I look forward to working with the entire NIT Srinagar community to take the institute to greater heights, he said. Outgoing Director Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, who joined NIT Srinagar in 2024, while interacting with the new Director and the institute leadership, highlighted the importance of continuity in institutional development. He said the welfare of students, faculty and staff, along with the overall progress of NIT Srinagar, should remain the collective focus of the institute community. During his tenure, Prof. Kanaujia spearheaded several initiatives aimed at strengthening the Institutes administrative and academic systems. Prof. Kanaujia also emphasised the importance of building upon the initiatives already undertaken and ensuring continuity in the Institutes developmental journey. Progress is always a collective endeavour. The support of faculty, officers, staff and students is essential for taking the institute forward. The focus must remain on strengthening NIT Srinagar as a premier centre of learning, research and innovation, Prof. Kanaujia said. Prof. Anurag Misra was appointed Director of NIT Srinagar by the Ministry of Education on July 29, 2026, through an order issued by the Department of Higher Education. Before joining NIT Srinagar, Prof. Misra served as Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering and Dean (Infrastructure Planning and Management) at IIT Jammu. His professional experience spans academia, research and the infrastructure industry. Prior to IIT Jammu, he worked as Chief Executive Officer of an infrastructure company, where he was involved in the planning, design and execution of pre-engineered steel warehousing complexes and steel-concrete composite elevated road projects. Prof. Misra also played a key role in establishing an automated manufacturing facility for precast sections and heavy prefabricated steel structures for public infrastructure and multi-storey buildings. He has also served as Professor and Head of Structural Engineering and Coordinator of the Centre for Building Technology and Construction Materials at Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, besides serving as Director of Anand International College of Engineering, Jaipur. He has also worked with Liverpool John Moores University and Curtins Consulting Engineers in the UK. His research interests include sustainable concrete, durability of concrete, concrete repair, non-destructive testing and utilisation of industrial and construction waste in infrastructure. He has supervised research in areas including high-volume fly ash concrete, self-compacting concrete, geopolymer concrete and sustainable construction materials. Prof. Misra has also been associated with collaborative international research projects and has undertaken more than 200 consultancy projects, including work related to the Jaipur Metro.
Div Com Kashmir reviews preparations for Eid Milad-un-Nabi, Friday following
Srinagar, Aug 19: In view of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (S.A.W.) and the following Friday, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg convened a high-level meeting on Wednesday to assess and strengthen arrangements at major mosques and shrines across the Kashmir Division. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners, Commissioner SMC, SSPs, VC LCMA, senior officials from various departments, including KPDCL, PHE, FCS&CA, PWD, Food Safety, Legal Metrology, LCMA, Wakf Board, Health, Police and Traffic departments, along with religious representatives from prominent shrines. The Divisional Commissioner conducted a detailed assessment of essential facilities at major religious sites, including Hazratbal Shrine, Jenab Sahib Soura, Assar-i-Sharief Kalashpora, Aham-i-Sharief Bandipora, Kabamarg Anantnag and Pethmakhama Budgam, besides other mosques and shrines expected to witness significant gatherings for night prayers. He gave special emphasis on arrangements at Hazratbal Shrine, where more than one lakh devotees are anticipated to participate in congregational and night prayers. Garg instructed the concerned departments to ensure that all arrangements remain fully functional throughout the occasion. The Chief Engineer, KPDCL was directed to maintain an uninterrupted power supply at Hazratbal, along with a reliable backup arrangement through DG sets. The PHE department was asked to establish sufficient drinking-water points and keep water tankers available as an emergency measure. To ensure convenient movement of devotees, SSCL, SRTC and ARTO were instructed to deploy adequate buses and e-autos, including services extending into the late hours. Traffic Police Srinagar was asked to prepare a comprehensive route plan for visitors arriving from different districts to prevent congestion and facilitate smooth traffic flow. Emphasising the need for adequate shelter and crowd-management facilities, the Divisional Commissioner directed Wakf authorities to make advance arrangements for tents at designated religious locations. The Commissioner of SMC was instructed to undertake an extensive sanitation and cleanliness campaign at Hazratbal Shrine and its surrounding areas. To safeguard public health, joint market-inspection teams were ordered to monitor food quality, hygiene standards and pricing around markets and religious sites. Garg stressed strict action against traders found violating prescribed quality standards or resorting to overcharging. The Health Department was directed to establish medical camps and deploy personnel according to duty rosters, while Fire & Emergency Services were instructed to position fire tenders at vulnerable and strategically important locations to ensure a rapid response in case of any emergency. Religious leaders attending the meeting expressed satisfaction with the arrangements being undertaken for the occasion. DCs were instructed to ensure availability of essential commodities and services during the religious occasion. Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioners briefed the Divisional Commissioner on the preparations and facilities being put in place in their respective districts.
CS reviews progress on CITaGs governance, policy, dev initiatives
Srinagar, Aug 19: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo on Wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the progress, strategic interventions and future roadmap of the Centre for Innovation and Transformation in Governance (CITaG), J&K, with particular focus on policy formulation, knowledge outputs, public-private partnership (PPP) projects and initiatives aimed at accelerating socio-economic development across the Union Territory. The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary, Culture; Commissioner Secretary, Planning; Chairman, Bureau of Public Enterprises; Commissioner Secretary, Science & Technology; Secretary, Transport; Managing Director, J&K Power Development Corporation (PDC); Managing Director, J&K Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC); Managing Director, J&K Housing Board; Director, Skill Development Department; Director, Employment; CEO, CITaG and representatives of other concerned departments. During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasized the need for establishing a dedicated Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to comprehensively oversee PPP projects, including their conceptualisation, development, progress, execution and outcomes on the ground. He further directed that a dedicated digital portal for PPP projects in the pipeline be developed to facilitate real-time monitoring and enable senior officers to maintain close oversight over their progress. He observed that such a mechanism would ensure effective follow-up, identify bottlenecks at an early stage and facilitate timely execution of projects. The Chief Secretary called upon departments, particularly the Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD), Tourism, Science & Technology and Power, to undertake regular review and follow-up of their projects and policy initiatives so that these are translated into tangible outcomes and grounded expeditiously. Highlighting the potential of Jammu and Kashmirs abundant water resources, he underscored the importance of small hydropower projects and called for making optimum use of this potential as part of the UTs broader energy development strategy. The Chief Secretary also advised CITaG to explore an innovative education framework focused on identifying and addressing individual learning gaps among students. Giving a detailed presentation, CEO, CITaG, Dr Sandeep apprised the meeting of the progress achieved under its institutional partnership with different government Departments of J&K. It was highlighted that against the original Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) target of 28 deliverables by August 2026, CITaG has tracked 100 knowledge-output projects, reflecting a significant expansion in the scope of policy research, strategic advisory and institutional support being provided to the UT administration. The milestone MoU between the Planning, Development & Monitoring Department and IIM Jammu has also been extended for a further two years, providing a longer-term institutional framework for continued policy innovation and governance transformation. The current knowledge-output portfolio includes 21 completed deliverables, covering major interventions such as the J&K Road Safety Plan 2026, J&K Electric Vehicle Policy 2026, J&K Circular Economy Policy 2026, Compressed Bio-Gas Policy, Urban and Rural Mobility Plans and the PPP Project Lifecycle Tracker, which have been submitted and adopted by the concerned departments. Moreover another 20 strategic frameworks have been submitted and are under review, covering areas such as attracting FDI, J&K GCC Policy 2026, Agri-Startup Policy, Tourist Safety Policy Framework and sector-specific viability analyses. Seven further deliverables, including the J&K Youth Policy 2026, HR Management & Manpower Auditing, Capital Adequacy and Leveraging of Assets for J&K Bank and blueprints for Model Industrial Estates, are scheduled for submission during August 2026. It was also revealed that sixteen initiatives are presently under active development, including the roadmap for doubling the GSDP economy, Ease of Doing Business benchmarking and Business Process Re-engineering of the J&K Single Window System. Another 36 future deliverables have been structured for implementation through 2027. The meeting was also apprised of CITaGs project development and transactional support for a portfolio of 76 PPP projects spanning tourism, real estate, renewable energy, infrastructure and industrial development. Another 10 projects are at the development stage, with site finalisation and preparatory work underway for Skill Development Centres, Residential Coaching Academies, a Skill University and biotech-based Aroma Valley clusters across Jammu and Kashmir. The CS directed all concerned departments to maintain close coordination with CITaG and ensure that policy recommendations and project proposals move swiftly from the stage of conceptualisation to implementation.
Distressed Kashmiri students in MP helped out: JKSA
Two Kashmiri students studying in Bhopal were allegedly subjected to harassment, intimidation and pressure to vacate their accommodation by fringe elements, as per a JKSA statement. The matter has since been addressed and brought under control following the timely intervention of the Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) and Madhya Pradesh Police, it said. The students, who are pursuing pharmacy studies in Bhopal under the Prime Ministers Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS), approached JKSA after allegedly facing pressure from certain local residents and individuals who, according to their representation, objected to their presence in the area. The alleged pressure was also reportedly extended to their landlord. The students alleged that the landlord was warned to evict them and that, if they were not removed, the individuals involved could forcibly enter the premises and throw the students out. Concerned over the students safety and security, JKSA National Convenor Nasir Khuehami raised the matter with Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police Kailash Makwana and sought his immediate intervention. DGP Makwana took strong note of the matter and assured JKSA that no individual would be permitted to take the law into their own hands or harass, intimidate or threaten Kashmiri students. He directed Bhopal Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar to intervene promptly and ensure the safety, security and well-being of the students. Following the DGPs intervention, a police team led by ACP concerned, along with Nishatpura SHO Manoj Patwa, visited the students at their residence, met them and heard their concerns. The students were assured of complete safety and security. Police also questioned individuals allegedly involved in threatening, intimidating or pressuring the students and called them to the police station for further inquiry. Residents of the concerned society were counselled regarding the need to maintain peace, communal harmony and non-discrimination and were cautioned against indulging in any discriminatory or intimidating conduct. Khuehami said action is being also initiated against fringe elements allegedly found responsible for creating pressure, fear or intimidation, and that legal proceedings would follow against anyone found to have violated the law. He said the police intervention has helped resolve the immediate situation and restore confidence among the students. The matter has now been brought under control following the prompt intervention of DGP Kailash Makwana and the Bhopal Police. The students have been assured that they will be able to live peacefully, move around freely, walk in the area, meet people, attend college and carry out their day-to-day activities normally, just like any other resident. Khuehami appreciated DGP Kailash Makwan, Bhopal Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar and DCP Bhopal Zone IV Adarsh Shukla, SHO Manoj Patwa for taking immediate cognisance of the matter. Their intervention has sent a clear message that no one can take the law into their own hands or target students because of their Kashmiri identity or religion. JKSA reiterated that Kashmiri students studying outside Jammu & Kashmir are equal citizens of India and must be able to pursue their education without fear, intimidation or discrimination. No student should ever be forced to choose between their safety and education. Students from Jammu & Kashmir travel across the country to build their future, and they deserve to live, study and move freely with dignity. Identity, region or religion cannot be a basis for harassment, intimidation or exclusion, Khuehami said. Association also appreciated DGP Kailash Makwana for reiterating that Jammu & Kashmir is an integral and equal part of India and that its people are equal citizens of the country, entitled to the same rights, protection and dignity as citizens from any other state or Union Territory. The swift response of the Madhya Pradesh Police has reinforced our faith in the administration and in the principle that the rule of law must prevail over prejudice, intimidation and identity-based discrimination, Khuehami added.
Amid challenges, Omar Govt's performance commendable: Chowdry Ramzan
National Conference Additional General Secretary and Rajya Sabha Member Chowdry Muhammad Ramzan Wednesday called upon party leaders, office-bearers and workers to strengthen their direct connect with the people and proactively take up their concerns with the government and concerned authorities for timely redressal. Addressing a meeting at the party headquarters, Chowdry Ramzan said that the National Conference is a mass-based political movement rooted in public service, as per a press release. He commended the performance of the Omar Abdullah-led government, saying that it assumed office amid exceptionally difficult circumstances, including financial and administrative constraints and a host of inherited challenges. Despite these limitations, he said, the government has remained focused on public welfare and development and has continued working to fulfil the commitments made to the people. He said visible attention is being accorded to vital sectors including roads, electricity, drinking water, healthcare, education, urban amenities, infrastructure and employment. He added that the governments initiatives reflect its commitment to addressing public concerns and improving the delivery of essential services. Chowdry Ramzan urged party workers to take these people-oriented initiatives to the grassroots while at the same time ensuring that public grievances and aspirations are effectively conveyed to the government. He said workers should serve as a bridge between the people and the administration by identifying genuine issues, pursuing them with the concerned departments and using their influence to facilitate their resolution. Emphasising the urgency of restoring statehood, he said it is indispensable for effective governance, accelerated development and meaningful administrative accountability in Jammu and Kashmir. He maintained that an elected government must have the requisite constitutional and administrative powers to respond swiftly to public needs, ensure greater accountability and implement developmental programmes efficiently. He reiterated that the National Conference would continue its democratic, constitutional and political struggle for restoration of statehood and would not compromise on this legitimate demand. He said public service has always been at the core of the National Conferences politics and cannot be restricted to any particular period or circumstance. A strong political organisation is one whose roots remain firmly embedded among the people and whose workers stand shoulder to shoulder with them in every difficult period, he said. Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir, Provincial Secretary Syed Tauqeer Ahmad, Convener Minority Cell Sardar Jagdish Singh Azad, Joint Secretary Ghulam Nabi Wani Tilbali and other office-bearers were also present at the meeting.
SMVDU a beacon of knowledge, innovation, values: LG Manoj Sinha
The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, on Wednesday attended the 23rd Foundation Day celebrations of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU). He felicitated the achievers and delivered a keynote address that outlined a vision for the Universitys future and its role in nation-building. Extending warm greetings to the University family, the Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, described the day as a celebration of foresight, resolve, and sustained efforts that has transformed SMVDU into a centre of knowledge, innovation, and social responsibility. He emphasised that the University, blessed by Mata Vaishno Devi, carries in its name the tradition of devotion, strength, and faith, inspiring millions across India and the world. The Lieutenant Governor said that a university is not built by its buildings but by ideas, dreams, and possibilities. He highlighted the role of visionary leadership, dedicated faculty, and curious students in shaping institutions that nurture not only knowledge but also humility, sensitivity, and responsibility towards society. Reflecting on SMVDUs journey, the Lieutenant Governor lauded its achievements in education and research. He noted that faculty members have secured around 140 research projects, including international collaborations, and established a state-of-the-art AI and Deep Learning Lab. The University has received 14 patents, incubated 30 start-ups, and launched innovative programmes such as peer-learning. He urged the institution to strengthen industryacademia relations by organising open-house meetings to commercialise patents and innovations. The Lieutenant Governor stressed that the true measure of a universitys success lies in its students and alumni, who carry forward its reputation through their contributions to society and the nation. He encouraged SMVDU to leverage government initiatives such as the Rs. One lakh crore research fund announced by the Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi on 15th August 2026 and the PM Research Chairs scheme launched earlier this year, to ensure maximum participation in national innovation efforts. In the contemporary world, research and innovation becomes meaningful when it finds solutions to real problems, improves the quality of life in society and brings positive change to the lives of ordinary citizens through its contributions across different fields. On 15 August, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, made a historic announcement from the ramparts of the Red Fort and allocated Rs.1 lakh crore. He called upon the youth of the country to focus on research and innovation, saying that they should come forward with ambitious dreams. The Government of India had created a robust system of financial support, and that no young person would now face lack of resources. I would like the Vice-Chancellor to constitute a team comprising faculty members and selected students so that the maximum possible number of applications may be submitted from this University, the Lieutenant Governor said. In his speech, the Lieutenant Governor underscored that education is the most powerful investment for universities, society, and the nation. He cited foreign university's success in generating revenue through innovation and research as an example, urging Indian universities to aspire to similar heights by focusing on research, innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship. The Lieutenant Governor identified key challenges facing Indian universities, including limited research, shortage of faculty, lack of accountability and weak industry linkages. He called for a change in mindset, urging institutions to ask not What should we teach? but What problems must we solve? He emphasised that Indias youthful population, creativity, and risk-taking ability are its greatest assets, and universities must transform students into creators of opportunities rather than mere job seekers. Highlighting Indias strengths, the Lieutenant Governor pointed to the nations ability to innovate at low cost, its cultural and linguistic diversity, and its vast diaspora. He urged SMVDU to connect these strengths with its research ecosystem and create solutions for real-world challenges in healthcare, rural economy, urbanisation, and digital innovation. The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised the importance of holistic education, calling for the promotion of sports, arts, literature, debates, and cultural activities alongside science and technology. He encouraged the University to engage with rural communities, promote sustainable development, and adopt best practices from global education models such as emphasis on fieldwork, industry partnerships, and a strong vocational training system. Looking ahead, the Lieutenant Governor presented a comprehensive vision for SMVDU by 2040. He urged the University to become a leading global knowledge centre, establish advanced research facilities in AI, robotics, biotechnology, and climate science, and develop digital learning networks across rural Jammu Kashmir. He also called for international student-exchange programmes to strengthen global collaboration. He said the ultimate purpose of education is not limited to economic development but also the creation of creative human beings who understand themselves, respect nature, and recognise their responsibility towards humanity. He urged SMVDU to harmonise modernity with human values and to resolve to become a pilgrimage centre of knowledge, a laboratory of innovation, and a beacon guiding society towards progress. On this Foundation Day, I urge all of you to move beyond established paths and work courageously on the important issues. As efforts are undertaken in this direction, we should ask ourselves: What do we possess that other countries do not? Our nation's greatest wealth and strength is the passion, ingenuity and daring spirit of our youth. We must remember, the light of education becomes complete only when it moves beyond the walls of the University and reaches the last person in society, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor invited suggestions from various stakeholders for the establishment of the state-of-the-art International Museum of Goddess at Katra. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated the Self-Help Groups Bakery unit at SMVDU. Dr Ashok Bhan, Suresh Kumar Sharma and Gunjan Rana- Members of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Sachin Kumar Vaishya, CEO, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG, Udhampur-Reasi Range; Kumar Abhishek, Deputy Commissioner Reasi; Members of Universitys Executive Council; Heads of various educational institutions; senior officials, faculty members, staff, and students of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University attended the foundation day celebrations.
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Calls for dedicated SPV,digital portal to ensure effective monitoring of PPP projects SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting in Srinagar to evaluate the progress and future strategies of the Centre for Innovation and Transformation in Governance (CITaG), Jammu & Kashmir. The focus was on policy formulation, knowledge outputs, public-private []
SKUAST-K transfers exotic mushroom technology to Agri Dept
For scaling up high-value circular bioeconomy SRINAGAR: In a key move to advance Jammu & Kashmirs agriculture sector into a high-value, knowledge-based circular bioeconomy, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) on Wednesday transferred its patented exotic mushroom production technology to the Department of Agriculture. This step aims to expand cultivation among []
Sagar seeks adequate arrangements for Urs Syed Ali Aali Balki (RA)
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference General Secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar has urged the district administrations of Budgam and Pulwama to ensure foolproof arrangements for devotees attending the annual Urs Mubarak of Hazrat Sultan Syed Mohammad Ali Aali Balkhi (RA) at Pakharpora. Sagar called for uninterrupted provision of essential services, including electricity, drinking water, []
Altaf Bukhari warmly welcomes new entrants into party fold
Pays obeisance at revered shrine of Sufi saint Lal Baba Sahib in Zakura SRINAGAR: Several prominent political and social activists from the Zakura area on the outskirts of Srinagar today joined the Apni Party in the presence of party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari. They joined the party during a meeting with the party president []
VC JKLCMA directs intensified lake cleaning operations
SRINAGAR: The Vice Chairman, JKLCMA, Khurshid Ahmad Shah on Wednesday undertook an extensive on-site assessment of Dal Lake to take stock of the ongoing cleaning and conservation activities being carried out by the Authority. During the inspection, the Vice Chairman visited various locations of Dal Lake, particularly the Gagribal Basin, and took stock of the []
CUK organizes blood donation camp
GANDERBAL: Under the theme Blood Donation: A Contribution to the Nation (Raktdaan Desh Ke Naam), Health Centre and Dean Students Welfare (DSW), Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), in collaboration with the Blood Bank department of the Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar, organised a one-day blood donation camp at Tulmulla Campus The camp was inaugurated []
No one can take law into their own hands: DGP Makwana assures Valley students SRINAGAR: Two Kashmiri students studying in Bhopal were allegedly subjected to harassment, intimidation and pressure to vacate their accommodation by fringe elements. The matter has since been addressed and brought under control following the timely intervention of the Jammu & Kashmir []
Experts, scholars, artists discuss future of modern theatre in Valley SRINAGAR: A two-day theatre seminar on Modern Theatre and Youth of Kashmir concluded successfully at Kashmir Government Polytechnic College, Gogji Bagh, Srinagar, bringing together prominent theatre experts, artists, scholars, critics and young theatre enthusiasts. The seminar was organised with the objective of creating meaningful dialogue []
Beyond Military Zones : Kashmirs LoC areas emerge as new tourism hotspots
Srinagar, Aug 19: For decades, areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir were known mainly for security installations, checkpoints and military activity. Today, several of these remote areas are slowly gaining attention as emerging tourist destinations. Places such as Keran, Tangdhar, Uri and Gurez are seeing growing interest as improved infrastructure and a sustained ceasefire have made travel easier. The change is giving visitors a chance to explore areas that remained largely outside the traditional tourism circuit. Tangdhar Valley, reached through the Sadhna Pass, offers mountain views, alpine meadows and access to remote villages. Travellers, however, need to plan carefully around security checks and changing weather conditions. Teetwal, located along the Kishanganga River, is also attracting visitors interested in Kashmirs history and culture. The restored Sharada Temple has added to the areas appeal among pilgrims, researchers and heritage enthusiasts. Uri offers another perspective on the regions history. The Aman Setu, associated with cross-LoC links, remains an important landmark reflecting the areas strategic and political past. Further north, Gurez Valley offers visitors an opportunity to experience the culture of the Dard-Shin community. Traditional wooden houses, mountain landscapes and the prominent Habba Khatoon Peak remain among its major attractions. The growing interest in these areasis differentfrom conventional mass tourism. Visitors are increasingly looking for history, culture, local experiences and lesser-known landscapes. The trend could also support local communities through homestays, transport services, guides, handicrafts and small businesses. At the same time, tourism authorities and local residents face the challenge of protecting the fragile Himalayan environment. As more frontier villages enter Kashmirs tourism map, the focus is shifting from security-only narratives to community-led tourism, cultural preservation and sustainable economic opportunities.
JKRTC Diesel Exhaust Fluid tender under scanner
Srinagar, Aug 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department has ordered a detailed examination of the procurement process for Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) for the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporations (JKRTC) BS-VI fleet. Ithasdirected officials to produce the complete tender file and all related records before a committeein the wake ofa complaint alleging irregularities in the tendering process. In a fresh communication dated August 19, Director Finance, Transport Department, Romesh Singh, JKAS, directed the Financial Advisor and Chief Accounts Officer (CAO), JKRTC, Srinagar, to appear before his office on August 20alongwith all relevant records about the DEF procurement process recently concluded through the JK Tender Portal. The communication, issued with reference to JKRTC order no. 257-JKRTC of 2026 dated August 5, specifically seeks the complete tender and procurement file, including the Notice Inviting Tender (NIT), tender documents, technical and financial bids, bid evaluation and comparative statements, proceedings and minutes of the concerned committees, approvals of the competent authority, correspondence with participating bidders, and purchase or supply orders. The department has also sought the Procurement Manual, General Financial Rules (GFR), relevant government orders, circulars and instructions, besides theprovisions relied upon by JKRTCfor determining eligibility, evaluating bids and awarding the contract. The records, according to the order, are required to facilitate a detailed examination and ascertain whether prescribed rules, procedures and government guidelines were followed at different stages of the procurement process. The latest communication follows an earlier order issued by JKRTC on August 5, through which the corporation constituted a committee to examine the procurement process relating to the complaint receivedregardingsupply of DEF for its BS-VI fleet. The August 5 order stated that a complaint had been received alleging irregularities in the procurement process and that the matter required comprehensive examination to ascertain whether prescribed procedures and norms had been followed. The committee comprises the Director Finance of the Transport Department, Joint Director SMG Srinagar and General Manager (Operations), JKRTC Srinagar. It was tasked with examining the complete procurement and tendering process, scrutinising relevant records, documents, approvals and proceedings, and submitting a report with specific findings and recommendations to the Managing Director JKRTC within five days. The committee was formed on the directions of the transport minister. Importantly, the order also directed that no supply order be placed with the tenderer until the matter was closed. Itsaidany immediate requirement was to be met from the open market at ASRTU rates or the after-market rate, whichever was cheaper. The issuecame to the official notice after a written complaint submitted by a Jammubased advocate Aman Thappa to the Transport Minister, alleging irregularities in JKRTCs tender for procurement of DEF/AdBlue. The complaint alleged that Tender Reference No. 10 of 2026-27, dated May 26, 2026, had been awarded to M/s UE Autotech Pvt. Ltd at rates higher than the ASRTU-approved rates applicable during the corresponding period. Among other allegations, the complaint claimed that the tender was initially published on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) but was subsequently withdrawn and re-published on the JK Tender Portal. The complainant alleged that this resulted in the tender being taken away from the reverse-auction mechanism available on GeM. The complaint further alleged that only two bidders participated in the tender, questioned the award price against ASRTU benchmarks, and claimed that the higher rates could result in substantial additional expenditure for JKRTC, whichit saidconsumes around 800,000 litres of DEF annually. It also raised concerns over the quality of DEF supplied by the selected firm to some other State Transport Undertakings. These claims are allegations contained in the complaint and have not been established by the authorities through the inquiry. The complainant also alleged a lack of transparency in the bid evaluation process and sought examination of the role of officials in JKRTCs Purchase and Stores (P&S) Wing. In particular, the complaint named General Manager P&S Parvez Abdullah and Manager P&S Srinagar Siraj-u-din, alleging that they had a role in the tender-related decisions. The complainant claimed to be in possession of video and audio material which, according to the complaint, could establish the alleged role of the officials and offered to produce the material before the competent inquiry or vigilance authority. The complainant subsequently sought an independent inquiry, examination of thewithdrawal of the tenderfrom GeM, scrutiny of comparative rates and participating bidders, review of the award, quality testing of DEF supplied to JKRTC and fixation of responsibility if any procedural violations or wrongdoing were established. The letter further added that he demanded a direct independent inquiry, through the Anti-Corruption Department of Jammu & Kashmir or an officer not connected with the original tender, into the conduct of the DEF tender process and the basis on which the award to M/s UE Autotech Pvt Ltd. was approved at rates higher than the ASRTU-approved rate.
J&K important part of India: US envoy
Srinagar, Aug 19: United States Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Wednesday indicated that Washington may review its travel advisory for Jammu & Kashmir, citing improved security conditions and describing the region as an important part of India. Gor made the remarks during his maiden visit to Kashmir since taking charge as the 27th US ambassador to India in January 2026. He arrived in Srinagar and met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at his residence on Gupkar Road amid full media glare. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Gor said the United States regularly reviews its travel warnings and that the advisory concerning J&K could be reconsidered. The US puts out travel warnings and every so often we re-evaluatethose travel warnings.I cannot make any big announcements today, but it is something we are going to look at, he said. The US envoy said New Delhi, the J&K administration and the local government had taken significant steps to improve the security situation. We willbe looking to see if the travel warning that is imposed and recommended by the US is something thatshould be downgraded, he said. Calling Kashmir a beautiful destination, Gor added that many Americans would enjoy visiting the region and exploring its beauty and opportunity. The United States has maintained travel advisories for J&K for decades amid security concerns since 1989. In June 2025, following the India-Pakistan military confrontation after Operation Sindoor, the US had listed Kashmir among high-risk areas and advised its citizens against travelling to the region. Gor described his meeting with Omar Abdullah as very good and cordial and said there would be follow-up discussions in Washington and New Delhi. We just had a very good meeting. We have some follow-ups, so we hope to take that back to Washington, back to Delhi, he said. The ambassador also made a significant reference to Jammu and Kashmirs status, saying, It is a pleasure to be here. This is an important part of India, and some of us are visiting for the first time. Gor said he was thrilled to be in Kashmir and praised the region for its natural beauty. The US envoy is scheduled to travel to Ladakh on Thursday after spending the night in Kashmir. CM Omar Abdullah said the meeting focused on India-US relations, particularly the scope for greater American engagement with J&K. We had an opportunity to discuss relations between the two countries with a specific focus on what the US can do in J&K. There are certain legacy issues that over time we will be working to resolve, he said. The Chief Minister expressed hope that engagement between Jammu and Kashmir and the United States would expand in the coming years. But we look forward to taking this conversation further. This is a conversation that will take place both between Gor and Washington and me and the government of India in New Delhi. But we are hopeful and optimistic that the engagement between the USA and J&K will widen and deepen in the years ahead, he said. Earlier, Abdullah had said he would discuss the situation in Jammu and Kashmir with Gor but ruled out taking up internal political issues with the US representative, saying such matters could only be resolved by the Government of India. Gors visit assumes significance as it comes amid efforts to deepen India-US engagement and growing calls within Kashmirs tourism sector for the relaxation of international travel advisories. However, the envoy did not announce any immediate change in the US advisory, making it clear that Washington would first review the existing warning before taking a decision.
Two drug peddlers arrested in Budgam
Budgam: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday arrested two suspected drug peddlers and recovered 11.240 kilograms of poppy straw-like substance during a naka checking operation in the Narbal area of central Kashmirs Budgam district. According to police officials, the operation was conducted by a team from Police Post Narbal near the Fisheries Department. During the checking, the police intercepted a truck trailer bearing registration number PB06L-2575, which was travelling from Magam towards Srinagar. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of two nylon bags containing a poppy straw-like substance weighing 11.240 kilograms. The contraband was allegedly concealed beneath the seat of the vehicle. The driver and co-passenger were identified as Iqbal Masih, son of Kulla Masih, and Akshay Masih, son of Mohan Masih, both residents of Gurdaspur, Punjab. Police said both were arrested on the spot and taken into custody for further investigation. Police have registered FIR No. 116/2026 under Sections 8/15 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Magam. An investigation has been launched to ascertain the source of the contraband and identify other individuals or links allegedly associated with the drug network. The recovered substance was seized, weighed and duly sealed on the spot in the presence of independent civilian witnesses, police said adding that all requisite legal formalities under the provisions of the NDPS Act were complied with.
GMC Baramulla staff protest delayed recruitment rules
Baramulla :- Aug 19 Non-gazetted employees of Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla have started an indefinite peaceful protest over the continued delay in framing recruitment rules, which they said have been pending for nearly seven years. The employees stated that they had earlier staged a protest following which the administration assured them that the recruitment rules would be finalized within three months. However, they alleged that the assurance was not fulfilled and the process remains pending. The protesting employees said they would continue their agitation until a senior official from the administration or Health Department, including the Health Secretary, intervenes and provides a clear and time-bound assurance on the issue. They claimed that the absence of recruitment rules has hampered the appointment of fresh staff in newly established medical colleges, resulting in significant manpower shortages. According to the employees, several institutions are functioning with around 50 per cent staff shortages. The employees said the shortage has increased the workload on existing staff and is adversely affecting the delivery of healthcare services and patient care. They appealed to the concerned authorities to address the matter urgently, frame the recruitment rules and initiate the recruitment process without further delay.
US ambassador hints at downgrading travel warning for J
Calls J&K important part of India, praises safety measures Jammu Tawi, Aug 19:Describing Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India, United States Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor on Wednesday said Washington would reassess its advisory cautioning citizens against travelling to the region. Speaking to reporters after meeting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at his [] The post US ambassador hints at downgrading travel warning for J&K appeared first on Northlines .
Sinha calls for universities to foster opportunity creators
Says true measure of Universitys success lies in its students, alumni Jammu Tawi, Aug 19:Asking varsities to transform students into creators of opportunities rather than mere job seekers, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said that a university is not built by its buildings but by ideas, dreams, and possibilities. Addressing the 23rd Foundation Day [] The post Sinha calls for universities to foster opportunity creators appeared first on Northlines .
JERC equalizes power tariff, grants industrial rates to Ladakh
Srinagar, Aug 19:The Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) has mandated that hotels, guest houses, resorts, and homestays registered with the Ladakh Tourism Department will be reclassified for electricity billing. The Commission said that these establishments shall be charged tariffs at par with industrial consumersa move that may alter operational costs for the regions hospitality sector. [] The post JERC equalizes power tariff, grants industrial rates to Ladakhs hospitality sector appeared first on Northlines .
Train speed on Katra-Banihal section raised to 100 kmph: Rlys
Jammu Tawi, Aug 18 : The maximum permissible speed of trains on the 111-km-long new broad gauge rail section between Katra and Banihal under Northern Railways Jammu division has been increased to 100 kmph, officials said. The 111-km-long Katra-Banihal rail section is a crucial and technically challenging component of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) [] The post Train speed on Katra-Banihal section raised to 100 kmph: Rlys appeared first on Northlines .
Holy Mace of Machail Yatra departs for Paddar
Jammu Tawi, Aug 19 : The Pavitra Charri (Holy Mace) of the Shree Machail Mata Yatra, accompanied by thousands of devotees, left the Gori Shankar Temple in Sarkoot for Sub-Division Paddar early Wednesday, an official said. Earlier, the Holy Mace had embarked on its journey from Jain Bazar in Jammu, reached Doda, and arrived in [] The post Holy Mace of Machail Yatra departs for Paddar appeared first on Northlines .
Bilal Mir transferred as Dy Secy in JK Assembly
Jammu Tawi, Aug 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the transfer and posting of JKAS officer Bilal Ahmad Mir, with immediate effect. According to Government Order No. 1415-JK(GAD) of 2026, issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) on August 19, Bilal Ahmad Mir, JKAS, presently serving as Sub-Registrar, Khansahib, and holding additional charge [] The post Bilal Mir transferred as Dy Secy in JK Assembly appeared first on Northlines .
Fatal Crash Shatters Family: 35-Year-Old Dies in Peerbagh Accident
Srinagar, August 19: A 35-year-old man died after the Alto car he was driving collided with another vehicle in the Peerbagh area of Srinagar on Wednesday evening, officials said. According to an official, the Alto car collided with another vehicle, leaving its driver critically injured. The injured man was shifted to a hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead, the official said. The deceased was identified as Ziya Ahmad Malik (35), son of Abdul Gafer Malik, a resident of Rawalpora, Srinagar. Meanwhile, police have initiated an investigation into the incident to ascertain the circumstances leading to the collision.
DGP holds operational review of TOBs in Pir Panjal
Srinagar, Aug 19: Director General of Police (DGP) Jammu & Kashmir Nalin Prabhat conducted an operational review of Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs) established on the northern face of the Pir Panjal range, officials said. The DGP was accompanied by Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, VK Birdi, Rajiv Pandey, Hariprasad KK, SSP Budgam, and other [] The post DGP holds operational review of TOBs in Pir Panjal appeared first on Northlines .
Railways raises Katra-Banihal speed limit to 100 kmph
Jammu, August 18: The Railway Ministry has approved an increase in the maximum permissible speed of trains to 100 kmph on the 111-km Broad Gauge rail section between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Banihal under the Jammu Division of Northern Railway. Earlier, the permissible speed was 85 kmph on the Katra-Sangaldan section and 75 kmph on the Sangaldan-Banihal section. The speed enhancement has been approved after the Railways ensured compliance with all prescribed safety conditions on the section. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal said the increase in speed would reduce travel time and strengthen connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir. The increase in speed will not only reduce travel time, but will also strengthen the connectivity of Jammu-Kashmir. Passengers will get faster, safer and more comfortable travel facilities, he said. Singhal said the move would also give a boost to tourism, trade and other economic activities in the region, adding that the Railways remained committed to the safety and convenience of passengers. With the revised speed limit, train journeys between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Banihal are expected to become faster and more convenient for passengers.
PDP delegation visits Batamaloo families of Jalandhar accident victims
Srinagar: A delegation of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday day visited Batamaloo to offer condolences to the families of Ikhlas Qadir and Aneek Amin, who died in a road accident in Jalandhar, Punjab. In a statement, the party said the delegation was led by PDP General Secretary Mohammad Khursheed Alam and included former MLA Noor Mohammad Sheikh, former State Secretary Arif Laigroo and District Coordinator Dr Ali Mohammad. The leaders expressed grief over the deaths of the two young men and conveyed their sympathies to the bereaved families. They prayed for strength and courage for the families to bear the loss. The delegation was accompanied by Mohammad Shafi Kundangar, Khalid Mir, Mohammad Ashraf, Suhail Ahmed and other party workers. The PDP leaders also prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls.
Kashmirs traffic jams have long ceased to be a mere inconvenience. They are now a daily reminder of how quickly urban growth can outpace planning, discipline and infrastructure. From Srinagars choke points to the crowded arteries linking residential, commercial and institutional areas, the Valleys roads are carrying far more pressure than they were ever designed to handle. The result is predictable: lost time, wasted fuel, rising frustration and a civic problem that affects everyone, from schoolchildren and office-goers to patients and emergency responders. The knee-jerk response to traffic congestion is usually to demand wider roads, more flyovers or additional parking spaces. While infrastructure upgrades are necessary, they are not a complete solution. Kashmir cannot pave its way out of congestion alone. In a Valley where road space is limited and expansion is constrained by geography, the real answer lies in better traffic management, stronger public transport, and more disciplined use of existing roads. A major reason for the worsening jams is the sheer volume of private vehicles on the road. As car and two-wheeler ownership has increased, public transport has not expanded in a way that can absorb the pressure. When people are forced to rely on private vehicles for even short trips, the roads become clogged far beyond capacity. This is where a dependable, affordable and comfortable public transport system becomes not just useful, but essential. Equally important is the need for order. Illegal parking, roadside encroachments, unregulated loading and unloading, and indiscipline at busy junctions all add to the chaos. Even a well-designed road can turn into a bottleneck if lanes are blocked and traffic rules are treated as optional. Enforcement must therefore be consistent, not occasional. The message has to be clear: traffic discipline is not an inconvenience imposed by authorities; it is the minimum requirement for a functioning city. There is also a planning failure that cannot be ignored. New commercial establishments, schools and institutions have often come up without adequate parking or traffic impact assessments. This has shifted the burden onto roads that were already under strain. Urban planning must stop reacting after congestion appears and start anticipating where pressure will emerge next. Technology can help, but only if used properly. Smart signalling, synchronised lights, real-time traffic monitoring and better deployment of personnel can make a visible difference. So can pedestrian-friendly zones in selected areas, staggered office timings, and stricter checks on encroachments. But no reform will work unless commuters also change behaviour. Honking, lane-cutting, stopping anywhere and treating roads as personal territory only deepen the mess. Kashmir needs a traffic strategy that is long-term, practical and enforced with consistency. Roads must be managed as shared civic spaces, not battlegrounds. If authorities, planners and citizens all do their part, the Valley can begin to reclaim not just smoother roads, but a calmer urban life.
Human-Wildlife Crisis Demands Urgent, Shared Response
Kashmirs latest figures on human-wildlife conflict are more than a routine departmental update. They are a warning that the Valley is entering a phase where the struggle for space between people and wild animals is becoming increasingly deadly, frequent and socially disruptive. Around 1,700 distress calls this year, more than 14,000 over the past six to seven years, 70 deaths and nearly 700 injuries in that period, and 24 active control rooms across Kashmir together paint a picture of a crisis that can no longer be treated as a seasonal nuisance or a narrow wildlife-management issue. The Wildlife Department deserves credit for responding promptly to distress calls and for maintaining dedicated teams. The claim that all complaints were attended to is reassuring, at least in administrative terms. But the real question is not only how quickly teams respond after an incident; it is why the incidents are multiplying in the first place. A system that is forced to react to hundreds of emergencies every year is already under strain. Control rooms may help in coordination, but they are not a substitute for long-term conflict prevention. Devas comments point to the core of the problem: shrinking and disturbed habitats, changing habitation patterns, and human encroachment into forest areas. Kashmirs expanding human footprint has steadily pushed settlements, orchards and activity corridors closer to animal movement routes. Once that balance is broken, conflict is inevitable. Wild animals are not invading human spaces out of malice; they are searching for food, prey and safer movement paths in landscapes that humans have increasingly fragmented. There is also a growing agricultural dimension to the crisis. The conversion of paddy fields into fruit orchards has altered land use in ways that may have economic logic for farmers but ecological consequences for nearby communities. Fruit-bearing areas can attract animals closer to residential pockets, raising the risk of damage and encounters. This is a reminder that land-use decisions cannot be viewed in isolation from wildlife behaviour. Yet public behaviour matters too. The departments advice to avoid unnecessary movement during early morning and evening hours, travel in groups and keep children indoors in vulnerable areas is practical and necessary. But precautionary appeals will only go so far unless they are backed by sustained community outreach, better local reporting systems, stronger habitat buffers and a more visible presence in conflict-prone areas. The bigger lesson is that human-wildlife conflict in Kashmir is not merely about safety; it is about governance. It tests whether the administration can protect lives while also protecting biodiversity. The answer cannot lie in emergency response alone. It must include habitat restoration, scientific mapping of conflict zones, regulated land use, community education and stricter protection of wildlife corridors. Kashmir wants fewer deaths, fewer injuries and fewer distress calls, it must stop treating this as an episodic problem. The Valley needs a coordinated policy response that brings together the Wildlife Department, local communities, planners, forest experts and district administrations. Otherwise, the statistics will keep rising, and each number will represent another preventable tragedy.
Buildings That Think: When Buildings Begin to Sense, Learn and Respond
A building in Kashmir faces changing conditions. It has to deal with cold winters, snowfall, rain, summer heat and different demands for heating and electricity. Buildings are usually treated as structures. Today, sensors and digital systems can provide information about what is happening inside. Artificial Intelligence can analyse this information and support better decisions. The idea is not to make buildings think like humans. It is to provide information about their condition. ETH Zurich researchers are working on self-aware infrastructure, bringing together sensors, digital models, Artificial Intelligence and maintenance systems. The aim is to understand structures while they are being used, rather than waiting for problems. In Kashmir, where buildings face different weather conditions in different seasons, such information could prove useful. Leading universities are exploring this field. MIT, Stanford, Cambridge, UCL, TU Delft and ETH Zurich are studying sensing, Artificial Intelligence, digital twins, smart buildings and infrastructure monitoring. Their work shows that buildings are becoming sources of information. These developments offer ideas that could eventually be adapted to Kashmirs climate, buildings and practical needs. India is also developing research in this area. IIT Bombay is working on digital construction, smart infrastructure, digital twins and monitoring. IIT Madras is researching Artificial Intelligence, which helps computers analyse information and assist with digital construction. IIT Kharagpur is working on energy, buildings, indoor air quality and thermal comfort. These areas have relevance to Kashmir, where heating and indoor comfort change with the seasons. One important tool is the digital twin. It is a digital representation of a real building or structure. Sensors can provide information about temperature, energy use and equipment. Engineers can use it to understand performance and examine possible changes. Simply put, it creates a digital record of how a structure behaves over time. In Kashmir, this could help build a clearer picture of building performance. This approach could begin on a small scale. A building could be fitted with sensors that record temperature, energy use and system performance. The information could show seasonal changes, wasted energy or equipment needing attention. Such monitoring could help identify areas for improvement. The first step towards intelligent infrastructure is not advanced technology. It is understanding how a building performs. Kashmir already has a wide stock of existing buildings. Intelligent infrastructure does not always mean new construction. ETH Zurich researchers have examined how cities can make better use of existing spaces. One study explored how Zurich could accommodate around 100,000 additional residents by 2040 through planned development. The lesson is simple: existing spaces can sometimes be used more effectively. In Kashmir, a building could be given a health check. Its energy use, heating system, insulation and physical condition can be monitored. Regular observation can help identify changes and problems earlier. Sometimes, the smartest building is not the newest one. It is a building that is better understood, maintained and used. Better buildings can come from better design and careful use of materials. ETH Zurich and Holcim developed a new floor system that uses up to 50 per cent less material than traditional structures. The system has an embodied carbon footprint up to 80 per cent lower than traditional structures in the reported comparison. The cement used in the system contains 20 per cent recycled construction and demolition waste. The lesson is clear: thoughtful design can reduce material use and waste. Artificial Intelligence is being explored for building design. TU Delft researchers used Artificial Intelligence to study 9,000 design samples from a high-rise project. Three buildings for 1,800 residents reached a modelled electricity self-sufficiency level of 43.7 per cent. This was a specific study, not a general prediction. The work shows how computers can help examine design options before construction. A building depends on electricity, water, roads, communication and other services. These systems are connected, so a problem in one can affect another. ETH Zurichs Future Resilient Systems programme ran from 2014 to 2025 and produced more than 160 scientific papers examining such connections. In Kashmir, infrastructure also depends on services working together. Artificial Intelligence should remain a tool, not the final decision-maker. It can process information and identify unusual patterns. Digital twins can show how a structure may respond under different conditions. But technology does not automatically understand Kashmirs requirements. Engineers and planners still decide what information matters and what action should follow. Digital tools should strengthen human judgement. Better maintenance is another benefit. Small changes in temperature, energy use or equipment behaviour can be recorded. Digital systems can compare measurements with earlier ones, while Artificial Intelligence can help identify unusual patterns and possible problems earlier. In Kashmir, this could be useful where seasonal conditions place different demands on heating and energy systems. Intelligent infrastructure should not become a race to install the newest technology. A sensor is valuable when it answers a real need. Artificial Intelligence is useful when it makes complex information easier to understand. A digital twin matters when it improves planning or maintenance. In Kashmir, technology should be used when it addresses a real need. The important question is not how much technology can be added, but what it is meant to improve. The buildings of the future in Kashmir may not look futuristic. Their walls and windows may appear familiar. Inside, sensors may record their condition, digital systems may retain information, and Artificial Intelligence may identify patterns. Engineers may use these insights to improve energy use and maintenance. The building would not be alive, but it could have a record of its performance through Kashmirs changing seasons. That is what Buildings That Think can mean. Not buildings with human minds, but buildings that can sense their surroundings, provide information, learn from data and respond to changing needs. In Kashmir, this future can begin with one building that is measured and understood. The idea can grow to wider infrastructure. The future may begin with one sensor and one question: How can buildings in Kashmir work better? (The author is a Columnist. Feedback: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )
The Drying Tears of the Himalayas: Why Kashmirs Water Crisis is a Warning to the World
There was a time when summer in Kashmir arrived not as a season, but as a celebration. The gentle snowmelt would breathe life into the Valley, filling the rivers with a rush of crystal-clear water, while the mighty glaciers stood resilient, promising a steady bounty to sustain the land through the sunlit months. Today, that rhythm is broken. Summers now pass in an anxious blur of unprecedented heatwaves and parched earth, reducing once-roaring streams to a trickle, and the vast water towers of Asia are quietly fading. It is because, in the Paradise on Earth, we are choking the very natural systems meant to protect our future. The Vanishing Mirrors of the Valley The tragedy of Kashmirs water is unfolding right before our eyes, but it is moving slowly enough that we risk becoming numb to it. According to a new report published on 30, April 2026, A damning report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) laid bare a terrifying reality: nearly three out of four lakes in Jammu and Kashmir have either entirely vanished or shrunk dramatically. Out of 697 lakes catalogued across Jammu and Kashmir, 518 have either vanished entirely or shrunk to a shadow of their former selves. These water bodies have been swallowed by reckless urban expansion, concrete encroachments, siltation, pollution and decades of institutional indifference. That is 74 per cent of a regions liquid heritage, lost. Of the 697 lakes surveyed, 315, nearly 45 per cent, have not just been reduced or degraded but erased completely. One of the major reasons, the CAGs findings revealed, is a troubling absence of coordination. The Forest Department, Revenue Department, Agriculture Department, Fisheries Department, and the Department of Ecology, Environment and Remote Sensing all hold overlapping mandates. Yet the audit found no unified framework binding them together. Lakes fell through the cracks, not because no one owned them, but because too many agencies did. None was willing to take primary responsibility for their decline. Iconic lifelines like the Dal and Wular lakes, which once acted as massive natural sponges, soaking up excess water to prevent catastrophic floods, are suffocating under layers of untreated sewage and silt. When we destroy a wetland, we don't just lose a view; we destroy natures own engineering system for climate resilience. The Melting Lifelines Glaciers in Kashmir act as natural water reservoirs, gradually releasing meltwater into rivers and streams during the summer months. Their continued shrinkage affects irrigation, drinking water supplies, hydropower generation and horticulture-dependent livelihoods across the Valley. The Jhelum river system and several of its tributaries depend heavily on snow and glacier melt originating in the higher Himalayas. Environmentalists say a major and worrying sign is the rapid melting of the glaciers that feed Kashmirs rivers and streams during summer months. Studies and recent observations have shown accelerated ice loss in several glaciers, including the famous Thajwas Glacier near Sonamarg. Researchers have warned that the glacier has lost a substantial portion of its ice volume over recent decades due to rising temperatures and erratic snowfall patterns. Scientists say glaciers initially release more water as they melt rapidly, but over time the shrinking ice reserves reduce long-term water availability downstream. This threatens irrigation, hydropower generation and drinking water supply for thousands of households dependent on glacier-fed systems. Independent weather observers say Kashmirs changing climate pattern is becoming increasingly visible through shorter winters, weak western disturbances and prolonged dry spells. If the valleys are losing their mirrors, the mountains are losing their crowns. Kashmirs glaciers, which have sustained agriculture, orchards, and households for centuries, are retreating at an unprecedented pace. Researchers caution that while accelerated melting may initially increase river flows, the long-term impact could be a decline in water availability as glacier reserves continue to diminish. A report published in National Herald India on 31 May 2026 cites a recent comprehensive study by the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Kashmir, led by noted glaciologist Professor Shakil Ahmad Romshoo (Vice Chancellor, IUST). They analysed nine benchmark glaciers across the Kashmir Himalayas using Landsat satellite data collected between 1980 and 2013. The findings point to a significant climatic shift in the upper reaches of the Valley, where temperatures are rising more rapidly at elevations above 3,000 metres. The study revealed that glaciers in the region have lost nearly 17% of their total area over the past three decades. Even more concerningly, the high Himalayas are warming faster than the low-lying cities. A Global Crisis Hits Home According to meteorological data, Jammu and Kashmir recorded a rainfall deficit of 26 % between March 1 and May 6 this year. The UT also witnessed its seventh consecutive dry winter, with precipitation during December 2025 to February 2026 remaining far below normal. An ETV Bharat news report published on 13 May 2026 highlights that the rainfall shortage has affected districts unevenly, but some areas have recorded alarming deficits. Shopian reported nearly 71 % below-normal rainfall during March-May, making it one of the worst-hit districts. Kathua recorded around 63 % deficiency, followed by Kulgam at 53 %, Anantnag at 46 % and Budgam at 40 %. Kishtwar, Udhampur, Doda, Pulwama, Bandipora and Ramban also remained below seasonal averages. Srinagar recorded a deficit of over 20 % during the same period. If the valleys are losing their mirrors, the mountains are losing their crowns. Kashmirs glaciers, which have sustained agriculture, orchards, and households for centuries, are retreating at an unprecedented pace. This is no longer a distant threat confined to scientific journals. It is an immediate crisis of water scarcity. According to local meteorological data, Kashmir suffered an alarming rainfall deficit of 26% between March and May this year, hot on the heels of its seventh consecutive dry winter. In districts like Shopian, the deficit skyrocketed to 71%. A recent report by The Guardian highlighted that famous Kolahoi Glacier near Pahalgam is thinning rapidly, losing about 0.65 meters of ice thickness annually for every 1 o C temperature rise. Local farmers in Pulwama and Budgam are already facing the consequences. Irrigation canals that used to flow steadily through the summer are running dry by June. Paddy fields are cracking, and apple orchardists are looking at the sky in despair. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has consistently warned that mountain ecosystems are the first responders to climate change. When the Water Towers of Asia fail, the shockwaves will travel far downstream, threatening the drinking water and food security of millions of people across the subcontinent. Moreover If a region historically defined by its glacial abundance, sprawling wetlands, and endless freshwater can face dry taps, cracked fields, and vanishing springs in 2026, no region on Earth is safe. Kashmir is the canary in the coal mine for global climate resilience. So there is a wake-up call asking us to stop trying to conquer nature with concrete and instead design our future in harmony with it. If we protect nature today, nature will protect us tomorrow. If we allow Kashmirs glaciers to melt away and its water bodies to turn into dust, we aren't just losing our heritage; we are compromising our very survival. Therefore, let the drying springs of Kashmir be the wake-up call we can no longer afford to ignore. (The author works as a Science Teacher in the J&K School Education Department and is currently Pursuing Research at the School of Education, Central University of Kashmir)
Soil, Sky, and Impermanence: Ladakh biennale transforms Lamayuru rooftops
Ladakh: A 1,008-square-foot contemporary art installation made entirely with natural soil has transformed the rooftops of a house in Lamayuru into an evolving canvas, as part of the contemporary art activities surrounding the Ladakh Biennale 2026. Titled Rising from the Soil, Soaring to the Sky, the installation has been created by Nepalese visual artist Amrit Karki with support from the Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art. The artwork recreates motifs inspired by traditional Himalayan carpets, translating familiar patterns from woven textiles into designs formed directly from soil. The installation brings together elements of Himalayan cultural traditions, contemporary art and Ladakhs distinctive natural environment. The work is intentionally temporary. Foot traffic from visitors, along with wind and rain, gradually disturbs and erodes the soil patterns. As the motifs disappear, the material slowly returns to the earth. The changing form of the installation is central to the artwork, drawing attention to themes of impermanence, memory and the vulnerability of landscapes. Located on the rooftops of a house in Lamayuru, the installation places contemporary artistic practice within the everyday architectural and environmental setting of the Himalayan region. Rather than separating the artwork from its surroundings, the project allows the landscape and weather to become part of its natural transformation. The use of Himalayan carpet motifs also connects the contemporary installation with a long tradition of textile art across Himalayan communities. By recreating those motifs in soil, Karki presents a familiar visual language in a form that is deliberately fragile and short-lived. The project highlights a growing engagement with site-specific and environmentally responsive contemporary art in Ladakh, while bringing together artistic traditions from across the Himalayan region.
Border Defines India: But who defines border citizen?
As the 80 th anniversary of Independence Day dawns, the country will simply go into an overdrive with customary grandeur. The Tricolour will flutter atop important buildings; schoolchildren will sing patriotic songs, and speeches will extol the sacrifices that won us freedom from our colonial masters. A nation- state is defined by two of its very distinct facetsits people who populate its entire length and breadth and off course the national boundaries/borders. Both of these entities find ample space and discourse in its constitution and are complementary to each other. Not one of them individually can define the concept of a nation-state on its own steam. No wonder eighty years back, when Cyril Radcliffe the British lawyer cum boundary commission chairman set out his task of defining the national boundaries of India and Pakistan in a mere forty five days span , even he wouldnt have realized the importance of carving out such a cartographic lineation. Since this lineation was followed by one of the biggest human displacements with bloody repercussions in modern times across the Radcliffe line, hence the uniqueness of this partition.The borders of a country are not merely cartographic labyrinthine but a place where the republic is tested every single day. It is where the idea of India ceases to be an abstraction and becomes a lived reality. Ironically, while the border defines Indias geography, the border citizen often remains invisible in Indias policymaking. For close to seventy nine years, India has viewed its national borders primarily through the prism of military strategy, investing in troops, weapons, surveillance and other infra to protect its territorial integrity. These investments are indispensible no doubt, but they also reveal a deeper flaw in our national thinking right from 1947. We have treated borders as military spaces to be defended rather than living spaces to be nurtured. This distinction matters, and hence my endeavour to pen down this write up on Indias 80 th Independence day to put under the scanner such a distinction which may not portend well for our country if left untreated. A nation-state is not merely secured by its armed forces guarding its borders. It is secured when citizens choose to live there with dignity, confidence and hope. Every inhabited village on the border is a declaration of national sovereignty. Every family that refuses to abandon its ancestral home despite enemy shelling, infiltration or isolation is performing an act of national service that rarely finds mention from the ramparts of Red fort of India. Nowhere is this reality more visible than in Jammu & Kashmir. Border residents have lived through wars since 1947, terrorist violence, repeated ceasefire violations and prolonged uncertainty. Children have grown up distinguishing mortar fire from festival fireworks, farmers have cultivated fields under the shadow of sniper fire and many more such vagaries as thrown up by our inimical western neighbour at us. These are not isolated tragedies. But represent a way of life that few Indians living hundreds of Kilometers away can fully comprehend. Out of a stated fifteen thousand kilometers of total land boundary of India touching seven neighbouring nations, how much of border is actually under fire of ours? I may dare say only that which abuts our western neighbour in the UT of J&K and now under an uneasy calm punctuated by repeated ceasefire violations. Isnt it suitable time on the anvil of 80 th Independence Day of India, that these hapless people are not left to the mercy of geo-political machinations of this sub-continent which are played with utter disregard to their wellbeing? Be that as it may, yet public policy frequently views border districts through the lens of relief rather than resilience. Compensation is announced after damage, roads are sanctioned after strategic necessity arises. Same is the case with a plethora of welfare schemes involving schools, hospitals and employment opportunities. In the after math of mayhem unleashed by Pakistan last year during Op Sindoor on our border villages abutting both the IB and the LC, stories of continued neglect, administrative cum bureaucratic apathy emanate from media circles regarding laggardly pace of redevelopment of damaged infra. Leave alone relief, resilience is a far cry for us to come on top of the things as they stand today. The contrast with China is instructive. Both India & China threw out the yolk of slavery in the late 1940s. With a gap of only two years in between i.e. 1947 and 1949 respectively, China has pursued an integrated border strategy in which civilian settlements, economic development and military preparedness reinforce each other thereby surpassing India both in thought and action. Many of the readers of my article may argue that being a totalitarian cum communist nation, for China the concept of a nation-state supersedes its denizens. This is pass, simple and straight. For the sake of argument even if I do take this concept as viable, then may I ask why India has woken up lately to emulate the same concept in the format of VVP (Vibrant village programme now? The villages of China all along the LAC in our context present themselves the Chinese instrument of national security, signaling that the writ of mandarins of power in Beijing runs not only in their national capital but right till the last village of theirs. Though India as stated above has lately started in the right earnest to rectify decades of its inertia in such matters, by kicking starting programmes like the VVP it is too late and too less. The intent though commendable, the scheme doesnt inspire that much confidence. As late as a few weeks back, the PM in one of his discourses with the youth of India under the aegis of DIYLD (Developed India Young Leaders Dialogue) presented an idea before them of visiting border villages, staying, and connecting with them instead of using the virtual media to do so. This suggestion by our honourable PM throws an interesting question insteadIs merely encouraging the youth of India to visit these border villages enough? Can these cosmetics change the dismal situation as found present in these frontier areas? I shall not dwell much upon this topic, since it is being tackled by me in a separate article from Rising Kashmir paper. Border citizens per se ought to be placed head and shoulders above the rest of the populace of our country. Their defining attributes being derived from their very stay in the border areas and acting as the sentinels of a democratic dispensation in a region surrounded by theocratic countries. As India enters its eightieth year of independence, perhaps the time is ripe enough to redefine the citizenry of our border areas who, away from the din of the mainstream living of India, are silently carving out an existence for themselves based on true values of nationalism. The strength of a nation cannot be measured in terms of its military or economic might. But from the confidence of its citizens living at its farthest edge. If the border defines Indias territorial identity, then the border citizens define its moral identity. How India treats those who stand at its frontiers reveals what kind of republic it truly is. (The author is a retired army officer and a regular scribe of Rising Kashmir. He can be approached at his email: slalotra4729@gmail.com)
Pakistan summons US envoy over Sergio Gor's 'J-K important part of India' remark in Srinagar
Pakistan on Wednesday (August 19) summoned US Charg dAffaires Natalie Baker and lodged a 'strong demarche' after US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor described Jammu and Kashmir as an 'important part of India' during his visit to Srinagar.
J&K: US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor enjoys a Shikara Ride at Dal Lake in Srinagar
J&K: US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor enjoys a Shikara Ride at Dal Lake in Srinagar
US to reconsider travel advisory for J&K: US Ambassador Sergio Gor
The United States will reconsider the advisories on travel to Jammu and Kashmir as the central government and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have taken steps to make it a safer place, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said on Wednesday. Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India and an incredibly beautiful place, the US envoy said at a joint media briefing with Abdullah. Gor reached Srinagar earlier in the day on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The United States puts out travel warnings and every so often, we re-evaluate those travel warnings. I cannot make any big announcements here today, but it is something we are going to look at. New Delhi, the chief minister here, the government here, we believe have made some incredible steps to keeping this area safer and making it more safe, Gor said at a joint media briefing with Abdullah. So, we will be looking at if the travel warning that is imposed and recommended by the United States is something that should
MSMEs Must Embrace Technology, Green Growth to Stay Globally Competitive: LG Sinha
SRINAGAR :Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday called for greater focus on technology, green growth, formalisation and export competitiveness to strengthen the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector in Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing the second edition of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) MSME Conclave 2026 in Jammu, Sinha said MSMEs were central to []
India-Bangladesh: From liberation war to Sheikh Hasina test
Dhaka wants conducive environment fro PM visit By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers The relationship between India and Bangladesh has arrived at its most delicate moment in decades. A friendship forged in the blood and sacrifice of the 1971 Liberation War is now being tested by the fate of one woman: Sheikh Hasina, the daughter [] The post India-Bangladesh: From liberation war to Sheikh Hasina test appeared first on Northlines .
Death penalty survives, but door to abolition opens wider
Science may force reconsideration of right of state to kill By K Raveendran The Supreme Courts refusal to refer the challenge to execution by hanging to a larger constitutional bench may appear, at first sight, to strengthen the legal foundations of capital punishment in India. A closer reading points in a more complicated [] The post Death penalty survives, but door to abolition opens wider appeared first on Northlines .
India pushes coal gasification to reduce import risks
Ripple effects of Gulf tensions spread fast, create crisis By R. Suryamurthy Energy security often becomes a national priority only when a crisis erupts. The current conflict spreading across West Asia has once again reminded India how fragile global energy supply chains can be and how deeply its own economy remains tied [] The post India pushes coal gasification to reduce import risks appeared first on Northlines .
Jammu Kashmir Govt Promotes Assistant Section Officers as In-Charge Section Officers
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has placed two Assistant Section Officers of the JK Secretariat (Subordinate) Service as In-charge Section Officers on an officiating basis for a period of six months or until the posts are filled on a regular basis, whichever is earlier. The decision was issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) []
Man Killed, Pillion Rider Injured After Motorcycle Collide With Vehicle in North Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A 30-year-old man was killed while his pillion rider was injured after the motorcycle they were travelling on was hit by an unknown vehicle at Main Market Hajin in north Kashmirs Bandipora district on Wednesday, officials said. Quoting an official, the news agency KNO reported that the duo were travelling on a motorcycle when []
Jammu Kashmir Govt Promotes 29 Senior Scale Stenographers as Private Secretaries
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has accorded sanction to the regular promotion of 29 Senior Scale Stenographers of the Head of Departments cadre as Private Secretaries in the Jammu and Kashmir Private Secretary to Head of Departments (Gazetted) Service. The promotions have been ordered under Government Order No. 1420-JK(GAD) of 2026, dated August 19, []
Pakistan summoned the top US diplomat after remarks by the US envoy to India. Sergio Gor described Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India during his visit. He made these comments while meeting with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar. The US envoy's visit marked his first trip to the region since taking office. Pakistan lodged a formal protest with the United States regarding the envoy's statement.
Jammu Kashmir Govt Forms Panel to Examine Career Progression of PM Package Employees
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has constituted a committee to examine issues affecting the career progression of employees appointed under the Prime Ministers Package for Kashmiri Migrants and employees of the JK Relief Organisation (DMRRR). The committee has been constituted under Government Order No. 1419-JK(GAD) of 2026, dated August 19, and has been given []
Train Speed Limit Raised to 100 Kmph on Katra-Banihal Rail Section
SRINAGAR: The Railway Ministry has approved an increase in the maximum permissible speed of trains to 100 kmph on the 111-kilometre Katra-Banihal broad gauge rail section under the Jammu Railway Division of Northern Railway. The revised limit replaces the earlier permissible speeds of 85 kmph between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Sangaldan and 75 []
Pakistan summons US envoy over Sergio Gor's 'J&K important part of India' remark
Pakistan summons US envoy over Sergio Gors JK important part of India remark
Jammu Kashmir Government Orders Transfer and Posting of JKAS Officer
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has transferred JKAS officer Bilal Ahmad Mir from his post as Sub-Registrar, Khansahib, and posted him as Deputy Secretary in the JK Legislative Assembly with immediate effect. According to Government Order No. 1415-JK(GAD) of 2026, dated August 19, Mir was also holding additional charge of Sub-Registrar, Budgam before his []
Wedding Joy Turns to Grief as Groom
Hajin: Wedding celebrations in Sadunara, Hajin, turned into mourning on Wednesday after a 28-year-old manthe grooms cousindied in a road accident, leaving the family devastated on what was meant to be a joyous day. The victim, identified as Mohammad Yawar Mir, had stepped out to buy a new pair of slippers for his father when []
Jammu Kashmir: Govt Orders Transfer and Posting of Engineers in Power Development Department
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the transfer and posting of three engineers, all holding the charge of Executive Engineer, in the Power Development Department with immediate effect. According to Government Order No. 179-JK(PDD) of 2026, Er. Sunil Gupta has been posted to STD-I, Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL), Jammu, after being []
