CRS Completes Safety Inspection of Katra-Srinagar Section of USBRL
SRINAGAR: Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), Northern Circle, Dinesh Chand Deshwal on Friday completed a safety inspection of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra-Srinagar section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), with officials reviewing key infrastructure and operational arrangements along the strategically important corridor. Officials said Deshwal inspected the rail section in view of the []
Amarnath Yatra Suspended From Jammu Amid Rain, Adverse Weather
SRINAGAR: The Shri Amarnath Yatra was suspended from Jammu on Saturday as rainfall and adverse weather conditions affected Ramban district and parts of Kashmir, officials said. No fresh convoy was permitted to leave the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu as a precautionary measure, with authorities assessing the prevailing weather and road conditions before allowing []
Jammu Kashmir NHs Hit by Repeated Landslides in 2025-26, Centre Tells Parliament
SRINAGAR: The Union Government has informed Parliament that Jammu and Kashmir recorded one case of major structural failure on a National Highway project since 2014, resulting in the blacklisting of the contractor, while repeated landslides triggered by cloudbursts and heavy rainfall have continued to disrupt traffic on the Union Territorys key highway corridors. Replying to []
CIK raids multiple locations across Kashmir in terror recruitment case
Srinagar: The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) on Saturday conducted raids at multiple locations across the Kashmir Valley in connection with a terror-related case involving the alleged online glorification of terrorism and recruitment of individuals into terrorist ranks, officials said. Officials said that the searches were carried out in Baramulla, Shopian, Anantnag, Kupwara, Bandipora and other []
CIK Conducts Raids at Multiple Locations Across Kashmir in Terror-Related Case
SRINAGAR: The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) on Saturday conducted raids at multiple locations across the Kashmir Valley in connection with a terror-related case involving the alleged online glorification of terrorism and recruitment of individuals into terrorist ranks, officials said. Officials said the searches were carried out in Baramulla, Shopian, Anantnag, Kupwara, Bandipora and other districts. []
Plaintiff Trump gets reprieve from order to disclose finances in BBC case
WASHINGTON: President Donald J Trump, Plaintiff, got a welcome break this week in one of his battles with the media but for the moment, only a temporary one. As his USD 10 billion lawsuit against the BBC proceeds, a federal judge in Florida granted the president a temporary reprieve on Thursday from an order []
Trump administration to back three mineral projects with $58 million in financing
The US Export-Import Bank is lending fifty-eight million dollars to three critical mineral companies. This funding aims to reduce reliance on Chinese supplies and boost domestic mining operations. Westwater Resources will receive twenty-five million dollars for its graphite mine and processing facility. Global Advanced Metals gets twenty-five million dollars for tantalum and niobium processing expansion. An eight million dollar loan goes to 5E Advanced Materials for boron production.
Letters to The Editor July 30, 2026
Congress tells govt to come clean on ropeway project
SHILLONG, Aug 7: Raising concerns over the environmental implications of the proposed Shillong Ropeway Project, the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) on Friday asked the government to disclose studies on its impact on the citys ecology and water catchment areas. MPCC secretary Manuel Badwar told reporters that the Congress was not opposed to development or []
WJH admin issues alert over water release from dams
JOWAI, Aug 7: The West Jaintia Hills district administration has issued a safety alert following an advisory from the Kopili Hydro Power Station regarding the potential release of water from the Khandong and Umrong dams. The warning follows a rise in water levels in the reservoirs caused by persistent rainfall in the catchment areas. Residents []
Rains Bring Major Relief To Punjab, Haryana Farmers, Boost Crop Prospects
The ongoing monsoon rains across Punjab and Haryana have brought much-needed relief to farmers, significantly improving crop conditions while reducing dependence on irrigation.
JH group seeks dedicated traffic personnel and impartial policing
KHLIEHRIAT, Aug 7: The Advocacy Reform Movement (ARM) on Friday met East Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police to demand the appointment of dedicated traffic personnel at all police outposts and more stringent action against violent crimes. Led by the organisations president Burom Dkhar, the delegation submitted a memorandum highlighting three primary concerns. The organisation urged []
A delegation from Punjabs Kheti Virasat Mission (KVM) met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on The post Punjab Delegation Showcases Farm-to-Fabric Khadi to Indian PM on National Handloom Day appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Narmada Meeting held in Rajpipla regarding Har Ghar Tiranga campaign - Sandesh News
CM reviews Srinagar-Jammu NH restoration
Ramban, Aug 7:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday travelled by road from Jammu to Srinagar via the Srinagar-Jammj National Highway and reviewed the ongoing restoration and repair works at several affected stretches amid challenging weather conditions and traffic disruptions. During his visit, CM Omar inspected vulnerable portions of the highway and received detailed briefings from officials of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), Traffic Police, and civil administration regarding the condition of the road, traffic movement, and progress of restoration works. He was accompanied by Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, Dheeraj Gupta, senior NHAI officials, Traffic Police officers, and other concerned officers. Describing the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway as the lifeline of Jammu and Kashmir, the CM stressed the need for expediting restoration works to ensure safe and smooth movement of traffic. He directed the concerned agencies to maintain close coordination, deploy adequate manpower and machinery, and complete the remaining works at the earliest without compromising safety. Speaking to reporters during his visit to the Peera area of Ramban, CM Omar said there is currently no reliable alternative to the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway for connecting Jammu with Kashmir, highlighting the highway's crucial importance for the movement of people, essential commodities, and agricultural produce. He appreciated NHAI personnel, workers, Traffic Police, and civil administration for their round-the-clock efforts to keep traffic moving despite damage caused by heavy rainfall, landslides, shooting stones, and mudslides. The situation between Peer Ki Gali and Bufliaz is very bad. It is a relatively small stretch that has suffered damage due to rainfall, but the NHAI, police, and Traffic Police have made efforts to keep traffic moving, the CM said. He said that the disruption had occurred at a particularly sensitive time as the region was witnessing both the fruit season and the ongoing AmarnathYatra. CM Omar said that prolonged disruption of the highway could adversely affect horticulture growers, traders, and the wider economy. People want to reach the markets before their goods get spoiled, he said, stressing the importance of ensuring timely transportation of horticulture produce. The CM said priority was being given to fruit-laden vehicles and petroleum tankers coming from Jammu, so that perishable consignments could reach markets in time and there was no shortage of fuel and other essential supplies in Kashmir. He called for exploring more dependable alternative connectivity options, including the construction of tunnels at vulnerable stretches and to reduce dependence on the existing road network during adverse weather. Referring to his recent journey on the Rajouri-Poonch route, CM Omar said the stretch between Peer Ki Gali and Bufliaz was in particularly poor condition and underlined the need to examine long-term alternatives for reliable connectivity between different regions of J&K. He appealed to commuters to cooperate with the authorities whenever traffic had to be temporarily halted because of rainfall, landslides or restoration work. The CM said said coordinated efforts by NHAI, Traffic Police, police, and district administrations had helped minimise inconvenience to commuters. He said that restoration activities were being carried out on a day-and-night basis. On the AmarnathYatra, CM Omar said that if permission was granted to divert traffic through alternative routes, it could provide considerable relief and facilitate the movement of a large number of yatris. There are still several days left for the yatra. We hope that more and more people come here and complete their yatra safely, he said. The CM also spoke about the broader impact of recurring disruptions on road connectivity and the economy of the hilly regions, particularly the horticulture sector, and stressed the need for resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. On the issue of J&K's rights and expectations from the Centre, he said his government had initially hoped for a positive response but had now decided to take the matter to the streets through protests. About the hopes of the people of J&K, CM Omar said, The world survives on hope. You keep hope; the rest we will take care of.
Iltija Mufti questioned for 90 minutes in assault, rioting case
Srinagar, Aug 7:Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti was questioned for around one-and-a-half hours by police in connection with an FIR registered over an assault and rioting during a protest in Srinagar on the eve of the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370. The questioning was conducted by the Station House Officer (SHO) of Police Station Kothibagh, who is also the investigating officer in the case, in the presence of a woman police officer. A senior police officer said Iltija Mufti cooperated with the investigation and assured the police that she would remain available whenever required during the course of the probe. She cooperated fully during the investigation. She assured us that she will remain available whenever required during the investigation and will cooperate, the officer told Greater Kashmir. Iltija arrived for questioning accompanied by PDP MLA Waheed-ur-Reman Para and MLA Muntazir Mehdi. However, the two were not permitted to accompany her inside during the questioning, officials said. The questioning comes as police widen the probe into the August 4 incident in Srinagar, in which PDP president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, Iltija Mufti, and several party workers were booked following a protest over the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370. Police had registered FIR No 63/2026 at Police Station Kothibagh under provisions of the BharatiyaNyayaSanhita (BNS), including charges relating to assault and rioting. The case was registered in connection with allegations that protesters attempted to violate restrictions, blocked Residency Road, marched towards LalChowk and obstructed police personnel deployed for maintaining law and order. The police action followed restrictions in Srinagar ahead of August 5, when authorities had prohibited unauthorised protest demonstrations by political parties and organisations across J&K. The PDP, however, had announced its intention to protest against the Centres August 5, 2019 decisions, including the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A and the subsequent reorganisation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories. During the protest, police and protesters came face-to-face after security personnel attempted to prevent the gathering from moving towards LalChowk. Police subsequently booked several people in connection with the alleged violations. The investigation is not confined to Iltija Mufti, with police indicating that more people who were present during the incident are likely to be questioned. There were many people and gradually they will be questioned, besides recording the statements of witnesses, the senior police officer said. Officials said the investigation would seek to establish the sequence of events, identify the individuals involved in the confrontation with police personnel and record statements of witnesses as part of the evidence-gathering process. The questioning of Iltija is therefore being treated by investigators as part of the ongoing probe rather than as an isolated action against the PDP leader.
MeT forecasts intense rain spells-triggering flash floods in Jammu division
Jammu, Aug 7:High-intensity rains, which may induce cloudbursts and flash floods, are expected to lash many parts of Jammu region, from the intervening night of August 9 and 10. According to the met department, there is possibility of intense localised downpours and isolated cloudburst events in higher reaches and vulnerable areas of Chenab valley, Jammu, Udhampur, Reasi, Rajouri and Poonch on August 10. The weatherman had predicted fairly widespread light to moderate rainfall across the Jammu region between August 7 to 10. After August 7, rainfall activity in most of the locations of Jammu division is likely to decrease. Later after August 10, rainfall activity will commence again with the possibility of intense spells at isolated places, stated DrMahender Singh, Chief Scientist and In-charge Agrometeorology, SKUAST-Jammu. The spell is likely to last for a couple of days, with a high risk of landslides and shooting stones triggered by heavy rains in vulnerable hilly areas. According to Singh, the maximum temperature in Jammu will swing between 33 to 35 degrees Celsius, followed by hot and humid weather conditions. Meanwhile, in a weather-related incident, a husband-wife duo drowned in Kaghote Panchayat of Ramnagar in Udhampur district, after they were caught in heavy-rains triggered flash-floods. As per official statistics, from June to July end, J&K witnessed over 25 incidents of cloudbursts, triggering flash-floods and claiming over 30 lives, with maximum impact experienced in Jammu region. Weather advisories, issued by the divisional, district authorities and Police, cautioning people in vulnerable stretches to stay alert continue to be in place.
Srinagar-Jammu NH open for 2-way traffic
Ramban, Aug 7:The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open on Friday for the scheduled movement of the Amarnath Yatra convoy as well as regulated two-way traffic of Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) despite intermittent rainfall and vulnerable road conditions at several locations. Heavy vehicles were also being allowed to move towards Jammu from Kashmir in accordance with the traffic management plan issued by the Traffic Police. However, vehicular movement remained slow at vulnerable stretches, particularly the damaged portion at Dewal-Samroli in Udhampur district and the Maroog-KishtwariPather stretch in Ramban district, where restoration and four-laning works are in progress. At Dewal-Samroli, traffic is being managed through a damaged single-lane portion of the highway. Uneven and eroded road surfaces, along with rain-induced slush and mud, have slowed vehicular movement. NHAI has deployed machinery, engineers and maintenance teams to keep the stretch motorable, while Traffic Police personnel are regulating traffic and assisting commuters. Officials said the Dewal stretch continues to require frequent maintenance as potholes and damaged portions of the carriageway are repeatedly affected by rainfall. Stones and construction material are being used at vulnerable points to facilitate controlled movement of vehicles. The Maroog-KishtwariPather stretch in Ramban is also witnessing slow movement due to ongoing restoration and four-laning works. Authorities are closely monitoring both stretches, particularly during spells of rainfall, as the possibility of landslides, shooting stones and further road damage remains. Traffic officials said vehicular movement is being allowed cautiously at vulnerable locations in view of commuter safety. Temporary restrictions may be imposed whenever restoration work or adverse weather conditions make movement unsafe. Restrictions on local inter-district movement also continue at designated points following the passage of the Amarnath Yatra convoy. Commuters are being allowed beyond notified cut-off points after verification of valid photo identity cards by security personnel. The Traffic Police has advised motorists travelling towards Srinagar to use the old Jawahar Tunnel road wherever permitted to avoid congestion and security checks at Lamber and Banihal. Commuters travelling from Jammu towards Batote, Doda, Bhaderwah and Kishtwar have been advised to use the Patnitop route. Motorists, particularly those travelling in LMVs, have been advised to undertake journeys during daylight hours and exercise caution in view of the continuing risk of landslides, shooting stones and ongoing four-laning works along the Ramban-Banihal corridor. Heavy vehicles carrying fruits, vegetables, livestock, and other perishable commodities have been directed to strictly adhere to the movement schedule issued by Traffic Police Headquarters. Fruit growers and transporters from Kashmir have also been advised to follow parking and movement instructions at designated locations to facilitate smooth regulation of traffic. Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic), Ramban, Raja Adil Hameed, said the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remained open for regulated two-way traffic and that necessary traffic management measures were being implemented to ensure the safe movement of commuters. The highway has witnessed repeated disruptions during the ongoing monsoon spell, with landslides, mudslides, flash floods and shooting stones affecting several locations between Udhampur, Ramban and Banihal. Sustained restoration and maintenance efforts by NHAI, Traffic Police, and other agencies have helped keep the strategic highway operational. However, authorities continue to maintain close surveillance of vulnerable stretches to ensure safe and regulated connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of the country.
July rainfall 35% surplus in J&K, Ladakh
Srinagar, Aug 7: Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh recorded 35 percent excess rainfall in July, receiving 259.7 mm against a normal of 192.6 mm, though the overall surplus masked sharp local variations, with rainfall intensity differing even within districts. Director Meteorology Mukhtar Ahmad said rainfall distribution remained highly localised, rather than widespread, with intense spells confined to pockets while nearby areas received little or no rain. Several pockets, particularly in higher reaches, witnessed localised torrential rains and cloudburst events triggering flash floods and landslides, while nearby areas received drizzle or light to moderate rain. Some events were also accompanied by hailstorms and strong gusty winds, Ahmad said. The activity was linked to the interaction between monsoon currents and mostly feeble Western Disturbances (WDs), which created conditions for short-duration, high-intensity rainfall. Despite several wet spells since March, only a few weather systems brought widespread or uniform rainfall across Kashmir, leaving many areas, particularly plains, with continued shortfalls.Rainfall departure between minus 19 percent and plus 19 percent is considered normal.A deficit of 20 to 59 percent is deficient, while 60 percent or more is large deficit. A surplus of 20 to 59 percent is excess, while 60 percent or more is a large excess. According to the Indian Meteorological Department ( IMD) data, the Jammu division received 317.8 mm of rainfall in July against a normal of 204.5 mm, a surplus of 55 percent. Kashmir division recorded 89.9 mm against a normal of 52.5 mm, a 71 percent surplus, while Ladakh received 25.8 mm against a normal of 6.5 mm, a 297 percent surplus. Jammu division Ramban recorded the highest departure, receiving 287.2 mm against a normal of 127.9 mm, a 125 percent surplus. Udhampur received 839.7 mm against 402.9 mm, recording a 108 percent surplus. Samba and Rajouri recorded 91 percent and 88 percent excess rainfall, placing both in the large excess category. Poonch received 47 percent above normal rainfall and remained in the excess category. Doda, Jammu, and Reasi remained within the normal range, with departures of 17 percent, 3 percent, and 14 percent. Kathua recorded a 25 percent deficit, receiving 383.5 mm against a normal of 514.4 mm. Kishtwar had only a 16 percent deficit, so it remained in the normal category. Kashmir division Baramulla recorded the highest departure, receiving 151.9 mm against a normal of 57.3 mm, a 165 percent surplus. Ganderbal and Pulwama recorded 110 percent and 108 percent excess rainfall. Anantnag and Srinagar were each 71 percent above normal. All four districts were in the large excess category. Kulgam recorded a 51 percent surplus, followed by Bandipora and Kupwara with 33 percent and 32 percent excess rainfall. Budgam remained normal with a 6 percent positive departure. Shopian was the only Kashmir district in the deficient category, receiving 59.8 mm against a normal of 99.2 mm, a 40 percent deficit. Ladakh Kargil recorded an exceptional 426 percent surplus, receiving 10 mm against a normal of 1.9 mm. Leh received 31.4 mm against 11.2 mm, recording a 180 percent surplus. Both districts were in the large excess category. June Rainfall The July surplus came after a 24 percent rainfall deficit in June, when Jammu and Kashmir received 57.9 mm against a normal of 75.9 mm. The June shortfall extended an eight-month period of below-normal rainfall that began in November 2025. June, however, witnessed recurring light to moderate spells apart from several localised dominant weather systems. The showers improved soil moisture and groundwater recharge, while short-duration intense rainfall resulted in greater surface runoff. The wet spells during June and July also kept temperatures largely under control. Most days remained normal or below normal, with only brief heatwave episodes- lasting not more than five days. Humidity remained high due to the influence of the southwest monsoon and passing Western Disturbances. The pattern contrasted with last year, when temperatures crossed 36 degrees Celsius in June and early July, with prolonged hot and humid conditions prevailing across the region. During June, Poonch recorded the highest positive departure at 37 percent, followed by Baramulla with 34 percent, Ganderbal 24 percent, and Samba 22 percent. Kishtwar recorded the largest shortfall at 70 percent, followed by Shopian with 69 percent, Kulgam 53 percent, Rajouri 51 percent, and Reasi 44 percent. Several districts, including Srinagar, Budgam, Bandipora, Kathua, and Jammu, also recorded below-normal rainfall. Ladakh ended June with a 126 percent surplus, receiving 6.5 mm against a normal of 2.9 mm. Leh recorded a 198 percent surplus, while Kargil had a 69 percent deficit. The June deficit came amid a 28 percent rainfall shortfall during spring. Between March 1 and May 31, Jammu and Kashmir received 235.6 mm precipitation against a normal of 327.8 mm. Kashmir recorded a 36 percent spring deficit, while Jammu recorded a 20 percent shortfall. Ladakh, however, ended spring with a 26 percent surplus. The spring deficit followed a prolonged dry winter from November 2025 to February 2026, when Jammu and Kashmir recorded its seventh consecutive deficient winter. During December-February, the region received 100.6 mm precipitation against a normal of 284.9 mm, a 65 percent deficit. The dry winter was accompanied by reduced snowfall, leaving lower snow accumulation in the mountains before the region entered spring and summer.
Will Soon Have A Solution: Jharkhand Minister After Meeting Protesters
Jharkhand Minister Dipika Pandey Singh noted that administrative channels have already forwarded core concerns to the Chief Minister's office, adding that a few issues are supposed to be addressed in writing.
Ukraine says it hit a major Russian oil refinery, hours after Zelenskyys meeting with Trump
The overnight attack started a fire at the Ryazan refinery, which has a capacity of about 17 million tonnes of oil per year, producing gasoline, diesel fuel, aviation fuel and other petroleum products, according to Ukraines General Staff
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Hull City Signs Norwegian Midfielder Jens Herto-Dahl on a Five-Year Deal
Hull, August 8: Championship club Hull City has signed Norwegian midfielder Jens Herto-Dahl from Eliteserien side Troms on a five-year contract. He will remain with the team until 2031. The transfer fee for the 20-year-old player has not been disclosed. This marks Hull Citys sixth signing of the summer transfer window. Herto-Dahl has established himself ... Read more Hull City Signs Norwegian Midfielder Jens Herto-Dahl on a Five-Year Deal
Gill skips Day 1 of practice game against SLC XI due to finger injury
Gill picked up the niggle during a training session here on Thursday (August 5) and as result, K.L. Rahul is leading the side in his absence
Gujarat Police Uncover Cyber Fraud Source in Jharkhand, Two Arrested
Ahmedabad, August 8: The Surat Cyber Crime Cell has arrested two alleged money mule operators from Jharkhand in connection with a cyber fraud case involving 10.65 lakh. Investigators identified suspicious transactions exceeding 65 lakh in bank accounts purportedly used to transfer the cyber crime proceeds. These arrests followed a four-day operation in Giridih district, located ... Read more Gujarat Police Uncover Cyber Fraud Source in Jharkhand, Two Arrested
Liverpool close to signing Barcelona's Araujo on loan
Liverpool are close to signing Uruguay defender Ronald Araujo on a season-long loan from Barcelona, with an option to purchase.
Student Protester Hospitalized Amid Ongoing JPSC Movement in Ranchi
Ranchi, August 8: A student protester involved in the ongoing agitation against alleged irregularities in the JPSC and JSSC recruitment exams was hospitalized on Friday after his health deteriorated. Rahul Kranti, a student leader from Palamu, was taken to Ranchi Sadar Hospital by ambulance after experiencing severe symptoms. Doctors have admitted him to the ICU. ... Read more Student Protester Hospitalized Amid Ongoing JPSC Movement in Ranchi
Supreme Court shunts out two coal scam judges on unusual Delhi high court request
You can't be too defensive: Ajinkya Rahane warns India batters before Sri Lanka Tests
You can't be too defensive: Ajinkya Rahane warns India batters before Sri Lanka Tests
Shatrughan Sinha Backs Mamata Banerjee, Praises Abhishek Banerjees Contributions
Patna, August 8: Shatrughan Sinha, a prominent MP and member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has declared Mamata Banerjee as his sole leader. He also acknowledged the significant contributions of party general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, praising him as one of the best speakers in Parliament. In an exclusive interview, Sinha commended Prashant Kishors substantial victory ... Read more Shatrughan Sinha Backs Mamata Banerjee, Praises Abhishek Banerjees Contributions
Post Pahalgam, panel proposes security boost at major J&K sites
Central Government Announces Appointment of 30 Judges in Four High Courts
New Delhi, August 8: The central government has issued a notification announcing the appointment of 30 lawyers and judicial officers as judges and additional judges in the Madras, Calcutta, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh High Courts. In a post on the social media platform X, Union Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal stated that the ... Read more Central Government Announces Appointment of 30 Judges in Four High Courts
Discrepancies in validating Kunbi caste certificates: Jarange-Patil
Mr. Jarange-Patil has set an August 29 deadline and threatened a fresh final agitation over delays and denials in the certificate process
Rohini Acharya Supports Changes in RJD, Urges Priority for Experienced Leaders
Patna, August 8: Political activities within the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have intensified following the dissolution of all party committees across Bihar. Amid this organizational restructuring, Rohini Acharya, daughter of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, has welcomed the decision and advised party leader Tejashwi Yadav on forming a new organizational structure. In a social media ... Read more Rohini Acharya Supports Changes in RJD, Urges Priority for Experienced Leaders
Almost $4T Added to National Debt Since January 2025, $1T Since Iran War Began
Overall, Trumps two terms have added about $11 trillion to the national debt, some 30 percent of its nearly $40 trillion total. ... The post Almost $4T Added to National Debt Since January 2025, $1T Since Iran War Began appeared first on The New American .
In addition to a range of AirPods Pro 3 sitting down at nearly 25% off, joined by $150 off iPhone Air , a notable MacBook Neo offer by way of a FREE $25 Best Buy gift card , up to $130 off Apple Watch Ultra 3 , and much more.
Vehicle Breaking Security Barrier Found in Jammu, Occupants Missing
Jammu, August 8: A suspicious vehicle that broke through a security barrier in Ramban, Jammu and Kashmir, has been located, but the occupants remain unaccounted for. This incident caused a stir on the crucial Jammu-Srinagar highway, frequently used by Amarnath pilgrims. Joint teams of security forces are conducting a search operation to locate the individuals ... Read more Vehicle Breaking Security Barrier Found in Jammu, Occupants Missing
Delhi BJP Questions Absence of Opposition Leader Atishi in Assembly Proceedings
New Delhi, August 8: The Delhi BJP targeted Opposition Leader Atishi for her absence during the assembly session on Friday. They claimed her absence reflects the Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) insensitivity towards constitutional institutions and democratic processes. Delhi BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor stated that Atishi and former minister Gopal Rai were also absent during ... Read more Delhi BJP Questions Absence of Opposition Leader Atishi in Assembly Proceedings
Trump administration to invest $3 billion into minerals projects to boost US defense supply chains
USA-TRUMP-MINING:Trump administration to invest $3 billion into minerals projects to boost US defense supply chains
44,551 cases pending in J&K and Ladakh HC
Srinagar, Aug 07: A total of 44,551 cases are pending before the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, while 3,65,191 cases are pending in the subordinate courts of Jammu & Kashmir and 1,748 cases in the subordinate courts of the Union Territory of Ladakh, according to data tabled in Parliament by the Union Government. Replying to a question raised by Members of Parliament Sanjay Haribhau Jadhav and Sanjay Uttamrao Deshmukh, Minister of State for Law and Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal informed the Lok Sabha that 44,551 cases were pending before the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh as on July 28, 2026. The data showed that pendency in the High Court stood at 47,371 cases in 2021, 43,575 in 2022, 42,934 in 2023, 43,296 in 2024, 43,039 in 2025, and 44,551 cases as on July 28, 2026. According to the reply, the number of pending cases in the subordinate courts of Jammu & Kashmir has increased steadily over the years. The pendency rose from 2,16,245 cases in 2021 to 2,72,543 in 2022, 3,10,486 in 2023, 3,11,925 in 2024, 3,45,785 in 2025, and 3,65,191 cases as on July 28, 2026. For the Union Territory of Ladakh, the subordinate courts had 1,244 pending cases in 2023, which increased to 1,407 in 2024, 1,583 in 2025, and 1,748 cases as on July 28, 2026. The minister also informed Parliament that, at the national level, 92,755 cases were pending before the Supreme Court of India, 64,67,391 cases were pending across the country's 26 High Courts, and 4,99,16,653 cases were pending in subordinate courts as on July 28, 2026. Meghwal said the disposal of cases lies within the domain of the judiciary and depends on several factors, including the availability of judges and judicial officers, adequate supporting staff and court infrastructure, the complexity of cases, the nature of evidence, and the cooperation of stakeholders such as the Bar, investigating agencies, witnesses, and litigants. He said the government remains committed to reducing pendency and ensuring the speedy disposal of cases through a series of initiatives. These include the implementation of the e-Courts Mission Mode Project to enhance access to justice and transparency, strengthening court infrastructure, policy and legislative measures to curb excessive litigation, implementation of the new criminal laws, establishment of Fast Track Special Courts, promotion of Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, and focused development of judicial human resources to improve the justice delivery system.
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J&K loses 9.51% of apple produce to post-harvest losses
Table: Post-harvest losses in J&K vs national range Commodity J&K loss (%) National range for category (%) Apple 9.51 Fruits: 6.02-15.05 Egg 6.08 Egg (all-India): 6.03 Maize 3.92 Cereals: 3.89-5.92 Source: NABCONS Study, 2022, as tabled by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries in reply to Lok Sabha Srinagar, Aug 07: Jammu and Kashmir loses an estimated 9.51 per cent of its apple production to post-harvest losses, according to a government-commissioned study tabled in the Lok Sabha by the Union Ministry of Food Processing Industries. The ministry said the Centre is implementing several schemes to improve cold-chain infrastructure, storage and processing facilities to reduce post-harvest losses. The data was given in response to an unstarred question by MP Jai Prakash on the assessment of post-harvest losses of cereals, pulses, fruits and vegetables. Union Minister Chirag Paswan gave the reply, citing the most recent of two studies commissioned by the ministry, conducted by NABARD Consultancy Services (NABCONS) in 2022, with reference years 2020-22. An earlier study by ICAR-CIPHET had been conducted in 2015 with reference years 2012-14. J&K's apple loss figure of 9.51 per cent sits close to Himachal Pradesh's 9.2 per cent, the only other major apple-growing state listed in the study, suggesting similar post-harvest handling challenges across Himalayan fruit-growing belts. Nationally, post-harvest losses for fruits ranged widely from 6.02 to 15.05 per cent depending on the commodity, with items like guava recording losses as high as 17.08 per cent in some agro-climatic zones and tomato exceeding 12 per cent in others, pointing to particularly acute post-harvest losses in perishable, high-moisture produce. J&K's egg loss of 6.08 per cent was marginally higher than the all-India egg loss figure of 6.03 per cent cited in the study, while its maize loss of 3.92 per cent fell at the lower end of the national cereals range of 3.89 to 5.92 per cent, suggesting comparatively better post-harvest handling for that crop. The reply noted that the NABCONS study, while providing commodity-wise and state-wise post-harvest loss estimates based on field surveys in major producing states, did not include an assessment of the impact of these losses on farmers' incomes. What Centre says it's doing On strengthening storage and cold-chain infrastructure, the ministry pointed to three ongoing schemes. The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY), running since 2017-18, supports integrated cold-chain and value-addition infrastructure, creation and expansion of food processing and preservation capacities, and agro-processing clusters, though two of its components, Mega Food Parks and Backward and Forward Linkages, were discontinued from April 1, 2021. The Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme provides financial, technical and business support for setting up or upgrading micro food processingunits, whilethe Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industries (PLISFPI), running from 2021-22 to 2026-27 with an outlay of Rs 10,900 crore,is aimedat building globally competitive Indian food manufacturing brands.
Solati 6500RPM Waterproof Adjustable Professional Trimmer & Hair Clippers Kit $19.99
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OpenAI Delays Next Major AI Model
OpenAI today said it is pausing activities involving its upcoming AI model Astra, because its cyber capabilities are potentially too dangerous. OpenAI says its newest internal evaluations show significant advancements in agentic coding and cybersecurity, and it cannot rule out critical cyber capabilities. Prior OpenAI models, including GPT5.6 Sol, were labeled as High. Astra triggers stricter guidelines in OpenAI's Preparedness Framework . The guidelines call for caution when developing frontier AI capabilities that create risks of severe harm, and the cybersecurity portion of the framework says OpenAI will implement extra safeguards for models that create new risks of scaled cyberattacks and vulnerability exploitation. The Critical threshold Astra may have hit is defined by an ability to identify and develop functional zero-day exploits of all severity levels in many hardened real-world critical systems without human intervention, or devise and execute end-to-end novel strategies for cyberattacks. OpenAI says it is increasing its safeguards and security controls before deploying Astra, including limiting work on the model until new safeguards are in place. The company plans to use isolated testing environments with restricted network and tool access, along with adding sandboxed execution and more monitoring capabilities. OpenAI says it will work with relevant government agencies and AI safety organizations to test Astra. We're committed to working alongside governments, safety institutes, and civil society to ensure that the frontier capabilities of models like Astra, and those that follow, are deployed responsibly and broadly for the benefit of all humanity, writes OpenAI. Astra wasn't formally announced, but OpenAI shared details on its next major model in a recent post outlining its mathematical advancements. Astra solved 10 open problems in math and theoretical computer science for around $2,000 (in Sol API rates). Advancements in AI are changing cybersecurity for major tech companies like Apple by unearthing an unprecedented number of bugs. Apple recently limited its bug bounty program submissions because it is having trouble handling the volume. Models like Claude Mythos are able to suss out critical vulnerabilities, and Apple is one of Anthropic's Mythos partners. Mythos is limited to select companies because in addition to finding vulnerabilities, it has the potential to exploit them. OpenAI made headlines in July because GPT5.6 Sol and a more capable pre-release model (not Astra) autonomously hacked Hugging Face during internal benchmark testing. Anthropic found Claude had done something similar . Meta this week said it too had an AI model hack another company during a cybersecurity evaluation. Tag: OpenAI This article, OpenAI Delays Next Major AI Model 'Astra' Over Critical Hacking Concerns first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums
Says NHAI, police working to maintain flow; urges commuters to be patient Ramban/Jammu: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said that fruit-laden trucks from Kashmir and petroleum tankers from Jammu were being given priority on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities and timely transportation of horticultural produce []
Ties with Pak can only move ahead in environment free of terror, hostility: Govt
New Delhi: Relations with Pakistan can only progress in an environment free of terror, hostility and violence, however, the neighbouring nation continues to use terrorism as an instrument of state policy against India, the Centre informed Parliament on Friday. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said this while responding to Samajwadi Party MP Dharmendra Yadavs query []
Flash flood sweeps away couple in Udhampur village
MeT warns of heavy showers across J&K from Aug 9 Srinagar: Flash floods swept away a couple in Udhampur District on Friday, while as the MeT predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir between August 9 and 11 and warned of landslides and waterlogging in vulnerable areas. An official said that a []
Major Drug Bust in Mizoram: 45 Crore Worth of Methamphetamine Seized
Aizawl, August 8: Security agencies in Mizoram have uncovered a significant drug trafficking operation disguised as an ambulance service. A joint team from the Assam Rifles and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized approximately 15 kilograms of methamphetamine tablets, valued at an estimated 45 crore rupees in the international illegal market. Three traffickers, including ... Read more Major Drug Bust in Mizoram: 45 Crore Worth of Methamphetamine Seized
Omar inaugurates Residency Road
Lays foundation for Water Supply Scheme for Udhampur Jammu: In a major push towards urban development and infrastructure enhancement in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday inaugurated a landmark project in Jammu, laid foundation stones for critical water and sewage projects in Udhampur and Reasi. The day began with the inauguration of []
Initiatives to strengthen AI-driven governance, innovation, entrepreneurship Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday launched the J&K Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence (AI CoE) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jammu and dedicated Project Phoenix, an AI-enabled digital commerce platform at IIT Jammu. The initiatives are aimed at promoting technology-driven governance, fostering innovation and []
Mehbooba to workers: Continue on PDP founder
Srinagar: Accused of assaulting an on-duty police officer, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Friday said she and her daughter were being targeted for raising their voice and urged the party workers to continue the struggle for resolution of the Kashmir issue even if she and Iltija go to jail. A day after the mother-daughter duo []
Srinagar: As many as 3,65,645 cases are pending in district and subordinate courts of Jammu and Kashmir, including 63,876 cases pending for more than five years and 20,767 cases pending for over 10 years, the Union Ministry of Law and Justice informed the Lok Sabha on Friday. As per the reply by Minister of State []
India to grow old before it grows rich, 20 pc of population to be over 60 by 2050
New Delhi: One in five Indians on an average will be over the age of 60, with nearly seven in 10 older adults living in rural India, a study showed on Friday. The study released by Transform Rural India (TRI) said India is growing old before it grows rich, unlike many developed nations that became []
Is The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement Signed By Pakistan, Saudi Arabia And Turkey A Threat To India?
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif confirmed his signing of the Mecca Agreement for Joint Defence along with Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Posting on X he stated, Today, I had the honor of signing the Mecca Agreement for Joint Defense alongside
Amarnath Yatra crosses 4.76 lakh mark
Qazigund: With 21 days left for the conclusion of the annual Amarnath Yatra, 5,095 pilgrims paid obeisance at the Holy Cave Shrine on Friday, taking the total number of devotees who have performed darshan this year to 4,76,683. According to official figures, 2,871 men, 1,544 women, 25 children, 61 sadhus, eight sadhvis, three transgender devotees []
Peaceful Religious Activities Held at Bhojshala Amid Tight Security
Indore, August 8: In the historic Bhojshala complex of Madhya Pradeshs Indore, both Hindu and Muslim communities conducted their religious activities peacefully on Friday. Strict security measures were in place, ensuring tranquility and harmony throughout the area. Police officials indicated that an alternative location has been designated for future prayers, but consensus among the communities ... Read more Peaceful Religious Activities Held at Bhojshala Amid Tight Security
Ahead of proposed strike, Haryana Energy Minister Anil Vij says talks with employees underway
Referring to their second demand regarding smart meters, Mr. Vij said that no tenders have yet been floated for the project and that the proposal is still under process
Emilio Gay Injured, England Faces Challenges Ahead of Pakistan Test Series
New Delhi, August 8: England is set to play a three-match Test series against Pakistan. The team has announced its squad for the first two Tests, but complications have arisen following the announcement. Opener Emilio Gay, who plays for Durham, has injured his right shoulder. Due to the injury, Gay had to retire hurt. If ... Read more Emilio Gay Injured, England Faces Challenges Ahead of Pakistan Test Series
Water conservation a shared responsibility: CM
Udhampur, Aug 07: Water conservation is a shared responsibility, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Friday as he laid foundation stones for two major infrastructure projects worth overRs 140 crore, reaffirming his government's commitment to providing safe and sustainable drinking water to every citizen. The projects include theRs 124.19 crore Augmentation of Water Supply Scheme for Udhampur Town under AMRUT 2.0 and theRs 16.33 croreUsed WaterManagement Project, including a 3.0 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant at Reasi under SBM 2.0. The Udhampur water supply project is designed to address the town's long-standing drinking water requirements by augmenting and modernising the existing infrastructure. On completion, it will ensure a sustainable supply of safe and quality drinking water, cater to the town's growing population and support planned urban development. The Chief Minister also virtually laid the foundation stone for the Reasi sewage management project, which will significantly improve wastewater treatment and sanitation infrastructure in the district. Highlighting the importance of the Udhampur water supply project, Abdullah said it marks a significant step towards strengthening the town's water infrastructure and improving the quality of life of its residents through assured access to safe drinking water. He called upon the public to adopt the 'Catch the Rain' campaign and promote rainwater harvesting for gardening, agriculture and other non-potable uses. He stressed the need to preserve water resources and construct check dams to enhance water conservation and groundwater recharge. Reiterating his government's commitment to inclusive development, the Chief Minister assured the people and their elected representatives that all genuine public demands would be examined and addressed on priority. Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Jal Shakti Javed Ahmed Rana congratulated the people of Udhampur and Reasi on the commencement of the two projects and appreciated the efforts of all stakeholders in bringing them to fruition. MLA Udhampur West Pawan Kumar Gupta and MLA Reasi Kuldeep Raj Dubey also addressed the gathering and thanked the Chief Minister for sanctioning the projects and laying their foundation stones. Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana, MLA Udhampur West Pawan Kumar Gupta, MLA Reasi Kuldeep Raj Dubey, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development, Mandeep Kaur, Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Minga Sherpa, senior officers from the civil administration and the Jal Shakti Department, and a large gathering of local residents were present on the occasion. The Chief Minister received a warm welcome on his arrival at Riwayat Hall, Udhampur.
iOS 26 Gets First Jailbreak Thanks to Dopamine
After 326 days, iOS 26 has received its first jailbreak, thanks to the developers behind the popular Dopamine jailbreak. Lars Frder, better known as opa334, today released Dopamine 3.0 , which adds support for a number of newer firmware versions, including iOS 26.0 and iOS 26.0.1 on devices with A12 or A13 chips. Another major addition in today's release is support for all devices running iOS 16.5.1 through iOS 17.3.1, significantly expanding the range of devices and software versions compatible with Dopamine. A full breakdown of supported devices and iOS versions can be found on AppleDB , a database that tracks jailbreak compatibility. Related Roundups: iOS 26 , iPadOS 26 Tag: Jailbreak Related Forum: iOS 26 This article, iOS 26 Gets First Jailbreak Thanks to Dopamine first appeared on MacRumors.com Discuss this article in our forums
Rajasthan Hospital License Revoked After Mothers Death During Childbirth
Jaipur, August 8: A private hospital in Alwar, Rajasthan, has come under scrutiny after a woman died following childbirth. The incident prompted the health department to revoke the hospitals license on Friday. The tragic event occurred at Nishu Hospital in Nagla Raisis, leading to an order from Gayatri Rathore, Principal Secretary of the Medical and ... Read more Rajasthan Hospital License Revoked After Mothers Death During Childbirth
Jagan Mohan Reddy Criticizes Andhra Pradesh Governments Withdrawal of Disha Bill
Amaravati, August 8: Former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has sharply criticized the state governments decision to withdraw the Disha Bill, labeling it a black day for women and children in the state. On social media, Reddy stated that a comprehensive safety mechanism designed for ... Read more Jagan Mohan Reddy Criticizes Andhra Pradesh Governments Withdrawal of Disha Bill
AI must deliver better outcomes: Omar
Jammu, Aug 07: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said Artificial Intelligence must ultimately translate into better outcomes for people. The CM launched the J&K Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence (AI CoE) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jammu and dedicated Project Phoenix, an AI-enabled digital commerce platform at IIT Jammu. The initiatives are aimed at promoting technology-driven governance, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, and expanding economic opportunities through the adoption of emerging technologies and enhanced digital market access. Addressing faculty, students, entrepreneurs, artisans and officials, the Chief Minister said Artificial Intelligence should be harnessed to improve governance and deliver tangible benefits to citizens. The Centre of Excellence will help us build more efficient, responsive and citizen-centric governance, while Project Phoenix will create new opportunities for artisans, self-help groups, startups and MSMEs to access wider markets, he said. Highlighting the practical applications of AI, the Chief Minister said the technology should be deployed in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education and disaster management to bridge the urban-rural divide and improve public service delivery. Referring to recent cloudbursts in Rajouri and Poonch, he stressed the need for AI-enabled early warning systems capable of identifying localised risks and saving lives through timely alerts. He also said AI could assist farmers and horticulturists by providing timely information on crop diseases, treatment and scientific use of agrochemicals. The Chief Minister said Project Phoenix would complement the governments flagship Mission YUVA initiative by strengthening market access, mentorship and incubation support for startups and local enterprises. He called for close collaboration between the Government and IIT Jammu to build a vibrant innovation ecosystem capable of generating employment and attracting investment. The J&K Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence, established at IIT Jammu with the support of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, and the Information Technology Department, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, will serve as a hub for AI research, solution development, benchmarking, technology evaluation and deployment support. The Centre will work with government departments, academia, startups and industry partners to develop AI-enabled solutions for real-world challenges across sectors including governance, education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure and disaster management. Project Phoenix is designed to connect artisans, self-help groups, cooperatives, startups, brands and MSMEs from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh with national and global markets through a digital commerce platform offering simplified onboarding, product discovery and market access. Earlier, Director IIT Jammu, Prof Manoj Singh Gaur, said that the institutes commitment to translating research into solutions with tangible societal impact and strengthening collaboration with the Government, industry and startups to build an innovation-led ecosystem for inclusive development. The event was attended by Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary, Information Technology Department Saurabh Bhagat, senior officers, faculty members, students, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders.
Gold is just a trailer: CWG 2026 medallist Sharmila Dhankar sets sights on Asian Games, Paralympics
Dhankar scripted one of the most inspiring stories of the 2026 Commonwealth Games by clinching the gold medal in the women's shot put F57 event
NH-44 is lifeline of J&K: CM Omar
Udhampur, Aug 07: Emphasising that the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway is the lifeline of Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday directed the concerned agencies to expedite restoration works and take all necessary measures to ensure smooth, safe and uninterrupted movement of traffic. He laid particular emphasis on facilitating the movement of trucks carrying fruit and other agricultural produce, noting that any prolonged disruption on the highway adversely impacts growers, traders and the overall economy. The Chief Minister travelled by road from Jammu to Srinagar via National Highway-44 to personally assess the condition of the highway and review the restoration works being carried out following the recent spell of adverse weather that triggered landslides and disrupted traffic at several locations. During the journey, he was briefed by officials of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the executing agencies on the progress of repair, restoration and stabilisation works being undertaken along the affected stretches of the highway. Abdullah was accompanied by Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, Dheeraj Gupta, senior NHAI officials, Traffic Police officers and other concerned officers. The Chief Minister stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among the NHAI, executing agencies, Traffic Police and the district administration to minimise inconvenience to commuters and ensure effective traffic management during the ongoing restoration works. He instructed the officers to closely monitor vulnerable stretches, deploy adequate manpower and machinery wherever required, and complete the remaining works at the earliest while maintaining the highest safety standards. The Chief Ministers visit comes in the wake of the recent spell of heavy rainfall that triggered landslides, shooting stones and mudslides at multiple locations along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, leading to repeated closures of the arterial road over the past several days.
BJP MP Manoj Tiwari Visits Mahakal Temple, Prays for National Prosperity
Ujjain, August 8: BJP MP Manoj Tiwari visited the world-renowned Mahakaleshwar Temple on Friday with his family. During the visit, he performed rituals and offered water abhishek, praying for the prosperity of the nation and the welfare of its citizens. After the darshan, he expressed his spiritual experience, stating that he felt immense joy due ... Read more BJP MP Manoj Tiwari Visits Mahakal Temple, Prays for National Prosperity
Joe Cracknell, Naavya Sharma guide Middlesex win as Durham lose Emilio Gay to injury
Hosts suffer blow as England opener retires hurt with shoulder problem, Alex Lees' century goes in vain
Gujarat Government Doubles Development Grants for Districts Hosting National and State Celebrations
Gandhinagar, August 8: The Gujarat government, led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, has announced a significant increase in development grants for districts hosting state-level Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gujarat State Foundation Day celebrations. The maximum allocation has been raised from 7.5 crore to 15 crore under the revised provisions approved by the state. According ... Read more Gujarat Government Doubles Development Grants for Districts Hosting National and State Celebrations
Two-time Asian Tour winner Rashid Khan (68-68-64-69) finished runner-up at 15-under 269
When learning is reduced to a market commodity, society pays the price
YAWAR NABI Education in Kashmir has long been spoken of as the ladder to dignity, empowerment and social mobility. For generations, families across the Valley have invested in schooling with the hope that their children would rise above hardship, think independently and contribute meaningfully to society. But somewhere along the way, this noble purpose has been steadily overtaken by a more troubling trend: the commercialization of education. What should have remained a public good has increasingly become a profit-driven enterprise, where fees rise faster than standards, and branding often matters more than learning. This shift is not unique to Kashmir, but its consequences here are especially serious. In a region already burdened by economic fragility, and unemployment the growing commercialization of education creates new barriers instead of removing old ones. It widens inequality, weakens merit, pressures families and turns education into a race for certificates rather than understanding. The result is an environment where access to quality learning depends less on talent and curiosity, and more on the ability to pay. Across the Valley, one can observe the steady growth of private schools, coaching centres and tuition-driven learning ecosystems that market themselves as the only route to success. In the absence of consistently strong public education, parents are often pushed into a costly compromise. They pay for school fees, transport, books, uniforms, annual charges, activity fees and then additional tuition on top of that. For many middle-class and lower-income households, this becomes a severe financial burden. Education, instead of being an equalizer, starts functioning as a pressure system that reproduces privilege. The deeper problem is not private participation in education by itself. Private initiative can play a useful role if regulated properly and aligned with public purpose. The problem begins when education is treated primarily as a business opportunity. In such a model, institutions are incentivized to expand marketing, charge more, and promise results rather than strengthen pedagogy. Parents are sold aspirations; students are sold rankings; teachers are often reduced to deliverables. The classroom becomes a marketplace, and learning becomes secondary to performance metrics. In Kashmir, this commercialization has also reshaped the culture of education. The pressure to excel in exams has intensified, while critical thinking, reading habits, creativity and emotional development receive far less attention. Many students are pushed into an endless cycle of tuition, test preparation and academic competition from an early age. This narrows the meaning of education. Instead of forming well-rounded individuals, the system often produces anxious students who know how to answer questions but not how to ask them. The consequences are visible in the widening gap between elite and ordinary learners. Children from affluent families can access better schools, more coaching, digital resources and personalized support. Those from poorer households, meanwhile, remain dependent on underfunded public institutions or low-cost private schools that may struggle with infrastructure and teaching quality. Over time, this creates an education hierarchy that mirrors social inequality. Those who already have advantages gain more, while those with fewer resources are told to work harder in a system tilted against them. Another troubling aspect is the commercialization of hope. In a society where education is seen as the main route to stability, institutions often exploit parental anxiety. Promises of guaranteed results, top ranks, and career success are used as sales tools. But real education cannot be guaranteed like a product. It requires patience, consistency, trained teachers and a supportive environment. When education is sold like a commodity, disappointment is inevitable, because the deeper responsibilities of teaching cannot be replaced by glossy advertisements and aggressive admissions campaigns. The coaching culture deserves special scrutiny. While supplementary learning has its place, the mushrooming of coaching centres across the Valley reflects a larger failure of the regular schooling system. If students need heavy dependence on tuition merely to keep pace with their syllabus, then the core system is clearly not functioning as it should. Coaching has become not an exception but an industry. And like any industry driven by competition, it thrives on fear, urgency and the belief that without extra payment, success is impossible. This is not healthy educational development; it is a market built on insecurity. At the heart of the issue lies the weakening of public education. No discussion on commercialization can be complete without acknowledging the responsibility of the state. When government schools lack adequate teachers, infrastructure, discipline and accountability, families naturally look elsewhere. That vacuum is then filled by private players. In that sense, commercialization is not merely the result of greed; it is also the result of neglect. If public education were strong, affordable and trustworthy, the market would not have such an easy opening. A serious response, therefore, must begin with revival and reform. Public schools must be improved in both quality and credibility. Teacher training should be prioritized, infrastructure upgraded, and classroom learning made more meaningful. The education department must move beyond paperwork and inspection rituals to real accountability. Private schools, meanwhile, must be regulated transparently so that fee structures, admission practices and academic standards are not left entirely to commercial discretion. Education cannot be left to the free market alone, because the market does not naturally protect equity. Parents too have a role, though theirs is often a difficult one. Many are under immense social pressure to choose the best school, even when the definition of best is shaped more by branding than substance. A society obsessed with labels eventually forgets values. We need to ask not only which institution sends students to top ranks, but which one teaches them to think, to question, to empathize and to grow with confidence. That is the larger purpose of education, and it should not be sacrificed at the altar of competition. The Valley needs an education system that serves society, not one that merely sells success. It needs institutions that nurture knowledge, not just performance. It needs classrooms that encourage understanding, not anxiety. And it needs a policy environment that treats education as an investment in the collective future, not as a lucrative business segment. If Kashmir is to move toward a more just and stable future, education must be rescued from excessive commercialisation. The classroom should not be a marketplace. It should be a place of discovery, discipline and hope. That is where the real battle lies. And that is where the future of the Valley will be decided. (The author is an educationist and a freelance writer)
Man City reject Barcelona bid for Rodri: reports
The 30-year-old has just one season remaining on his deal at the Etihad Stadium and has been strongly linked with a return to his native Spain
Kashmir Valley and the Urban Test
ER SIBGHAT MUSHTAQ Kashmir has always been a land of rare beauty and delicate balance. Its rivers, lakes, orchards, wetlands, snow-fed streams and mountain slopes are not just scenic markers; they are the very foundation of life, economy and identity in the Valley. Yet, in the rush of modern expansion, urban development in Kashmir has increasingly begun to resemble an unfolding contradiction: one that promises comfort and progress, but too often delivers congestion, environmental stress and shrinking livability. The debate on sustainable urban development in Kashmir Valley is therefore not a technical exercise for planners alone. It is a political, ecological and moral question that will define the future of the region for generations. The Valleys urban centresSrinagar in particularhave expanded in a largely unplanned manner. Residential colonies have risen on agricultural land, wetlands have been encroached upon, natural drainage channels have been narrowed or blocked, and transport growth has outpaced infrastructure. What was once a compact urban fabric with a recognizable ecological rhythm is now increasingly burdened by traffic chaos, waste mismanagement, air pollution and haphazard construction. The cost of this urban disorder is borne not merely in inconvenience, but in public health, environmental degradation and a gradual weakening of the Valleys resilience to floods, heat, water scarcity and land instability. Sustainable urban development, if it is to mean anything in Kashmir, must begin with a recognition that the Valley is not an ordinary urban setting. It is a fragile Himalayan ecosystem with limited land, seismic vulnerability, seasonal extremes and a high dependence on natural water systems. Development models borrowed blindly from plains or metropolitan cities cannot be transplanted here. Kashmir needs a distinct urban visionone that respects geography, protects ecology and serves human needs without exhausting the land that supports them. The first principle of such a vision must be land-use discipline. Urban sprawl in Kashmir has often proceeded by consuming fertile agricultural land and fragile ecological zones. This is short-sighted and dangerous. Every wetland filled, every orchard converted, every drainage path blocked compounds the Valleys exposure to flooding and waterlogging. A sustainable city must grow vertically where appropriate, compactly where possible and intelligently where necessary. Urban planning authorities must enforce zoning laws with seriousness, not symbolism. No development blueprint can be credible if it treats floodplains, wetlands and catchment areas as disposable real estate. Equally important is the protection and restoration of water bodies. Kashmirs lakes, streams, canals and wetlands are not decorative assets; they are environmental infrastructure. Dal, Nigeen, Wular, Hokersar and numerous smaller water systems perform vital ecological functions, including groundwater recharge, flood moderation and biodiversity support. Their degradation is a warning sign of broader urban failure. Sustainable urban development in the Valley must therefore place wetland restoration, sewage treatment and pollution control at the centre of policy, not at its margins. Untreated waste entering water bodies should be seen not as a routine administrative lapse but as an assault on the Valleys future. Transport is another defining issue. The current urban mobility model in Kashmir is heavily dependent on private vehicles and congested road corridors. This creates traffic bottlenecks, increases emissions and reduces the quality of urban life. Sustainable development requires a shift toward efficient public transport, pedestrian-friendly streets, cycling pathways and integrated mobility planning. Cities should be designed for people, not only for vehicles. Footpaths must be walkable, crossings safe, and neighbourhoods connected through reliable transport systems. A city where a short journey becomes a daily ordeal is not a developed city, however many flyovers it may have. Waste management is perhaps the most visible test of urban governance. The sight of garbage piling up along roadsides, water channels and vacant spaces has become distressingly common in many parts of the Valley. This reflects not only municipal weakness but also a deeper civic crisis. Sustainable development requires systems of segregation, recycling, composting and scientific disposal. At the same time, public awareness must be built through schools, resident welfare groups, local bodies and community campaigns. Clean cities cannot be manufactured by machinery alone; they require civic discipline and shared responsibility. Another critical aspect is housing. Kashmir faces a growing need for affordable, resilient and well-serviced housing. But the answer cannot be uncontrolled expansion or speculative construction. Housing policy must prioritize compact settlements, mixed-use neighbourhoods, disaster-resistant design and access to basic services. New colonies should not become islands of concrete without drainage, schools, health facilities or green spaces. Urban development must be measured not by the number of structures raised, but by the quality of life they enable. The role of greenery is also central. In a region where climate stress is already visible, urban trees, green belts, parks and open spaces are not luxuries. They are essential to air quality, thermal comfort and mental well-being. Sadly, green spaces are often the first casualty of commercial pressure. Sustainable urban planning must protect existing green cover and expand it through deliberate design. Every neighbourhood should have accessible open space. Every development project should account for shade, permeability and ecological balance. There is also an institutional dimension that cannot be ignored. Urban governance in Kashmir suffers from fragmented authority, weak coordination and short-term thinking. Sustainable development demands better planning institutions, stronger enforcement, data-driven decision-making and public accountability. Master plans should not remain paper exercises. They must be implemented with consistency, reviewed honestly and adapted to changing realities. Urban local bodies need both autonomy and capacity. Without empowered institutions, even the best ideas remain stranded in reports and speeches. At the heart of the matter lies a simple truth: Kashmir cannot afford the luxury of development that destroys the very landscape it claims to improve. The Valleys future depends on a development model that is humane, ecological and inclusive. Such a model would protect wetlands instead of filling them, restore waterways instead of polluting them, expand public transport instead of multiplying traffic, and create livable neighbourhoods instead of concrete chaos. Sustainable urban development in Kashmir is not anti-growth. It is pro-future. It recognises that real progress is not the reckless consumption of land and resources, but their careful stewardship. It insists that the dignity of the citizen and the integrity of nature must advance together. In a place as beautiful and vulnerable as Kashmir, there can be no other serious path. If the Valley is to remain livable, resilient and worthy of its own heritage, urban development must be reimagined not as conquest over nature, but as coexistence with it. That is the challenge. And that is the opportunity. (The Author is a structural engineer working in the UAE)
Corporate Social Responsibility
DR OWAIS ASLAM In todays corporate world, social responsibility is no longer a decorative phrase to be printed in annual reports or a public relations exercise rolled out during crises. It has become a serious expectation, one that reflects how businesses understand their place in society. Corporate social responsibility, or CSR, is about more than donating money or planting a few trees. It is about recognizing that profit and purpose are not enemies, and that a company operating in a community must also contribute to the well-being of that community. For a long time, business houses were judged almost entirely by their balance sheets. If profits were rising, the company was considered successful. But that narrow definition has changed. Today, people ask harder questions. How does a company treat its workers? Does it respect the environment? Does it invest in the society that helps sustain it? Does it act responsibly when it has the power to influence lives? These questions have pushed CSR from the margins to the center of public debate. The need for corporate social responsibility is especially visible in societies where public services remain under strain. In such places, private companies cannot afford to behave as isolated profit-making islands. They benefit from roads, electricity, labour, markets, and natural resources. In return, they owe something meaningful to the same social fabric that supports them. A business that uses community resources but refuses community responsibility is not truly contributing to development; it is only extracting value. CSR, when done properly, can fill important gaps. It can support education, healthcare, skill development, environmental protection, and livelihood generation. It can help build libraries in neglected schools, improve sanitation in underserved areas, support youth training, or provide relief in times of disaster. These are not minor acts. In many communities, they can change lives in practical and lasting ways. But such efforts matter only when they are sustained, transparent, and aligned with real needs rather than publicity goals. Unfortunately, CSR is still misunderstood by many businesses. Some treat it as a legal formality. Others see it as a one-off donation drive that satisfies annual requirements. Such an approach defeats the very spirit of the idea. Responsibility cannot be seasonal. It cannot begin only when a company has excess funds or when it wants to improve its image. It must be built into the companys culture, strategy, and decision-making. A truly responsible corporation does not ask what it can give only after making profits; it asks how it can operate in a way that creates value for everyone involved. There is also an ethical dimension to CSR that cannot be ignored. In an age of widening inequality, climate anxiety, and social fragmentation, corporations carry a greater burden than before. Their decisions affect not only shareholders but workers, consumers, local communities, and future generations. If a company pollutes the environment, underpays labour, ignores safety, or exploits vulnerable groups, no amount of charity can wash away that damage. Responsibility must therefore begin with conduct, not compensation. This is why CSR should not be reduced to cheque-writing. It should reflect fairness in hiring, honesty in business practices, environmental care, respect for human dignity, and long-term community engagement. A company that pays attention to these values will naturally be more trusted. And trust, in the modern economy, is one of the most valuable assets any institution can have. In fact, businesses that are socially responsible often discover that good ethics and good economics can go hand in hand. There is another important point: CSR works best when it is local, participatory, and responsive. Communities know their own needs better than corporate boards do. A meaningful CSR initiative should therefore involve consultation, collaboration, and continuity. It should not be imposed from above like a gift wrapped in corporate branding. Instead, it should emerge from a genuine understanding of local realities. That is what turns CSR from a photo opportunity into a development tool. For regions like ours, where unemployment, environmental pressure, and social needs remain pressing, responsible corporate engagement is especially important. Companies operating here should not limit themselves to extracting business opportunities. They should also help strengthen human capital, promote environmental stewardship, and support social resilience. If CSR is done with sincerity, it can bridge gaps that governments alone cannot always fill. Yet we must also be clear that CSR is not a substitute for the state. It should complement public responsibility, not replace it. Governments remain accountable for delivering basic services and ensuring justice. Corporations, however, have the capacity to support broader development and ease some of the burden through meaningful, targeted action. When both institutions do their part, society benefits. The real test of CSR lies not in speeches but in outcomes. Are lives improving? Are communities becoming stronger? Is the environment being protected? Are young people getting better opportunities? If the answer is yes, then CSR has moved beyond rhetoric. If not, it remains just another corporate slogan. In the end, corporate social responsibility is not charity dressed up in modern language. It is an acknowledgment that business exists within society, not above it. A company that grows while its surroundings decline is failing its moral duty. But a company that grows with its people, protects its environment, and invests in shared well-being earns something far more enduring than profit: legitimacy. That is the true promise of CSR, and it deserves to be taken seriously. (The author is a columnist and PhD scholar)
Rehabilitating Lives Through the SMILE Scheme
BEYOND ALMS RABIYA JAN Begging is often seen as a nuisance on roads and public places, but behind every outstretched hand lies a story of poverty, helplessness, disability, old age, mental illness, or social exclusion. In some cases, begging may be linked with difficult socio-economic conditions and limited access to social support systems. Therefore, begging is not merely a law-and-order issue but a social problem that demands compassion and rehabilitation rather than punishment. According to the 2011 Census, India has over 4.13 lakh persons engaged in begging. The issue poses not only economic and social challenges but also raises concerns about human trafficking, organized exploitation, and the vulnerability of children. Constitutional provisions such as Article 23 prohibit trafficking and forced labour, while Article 41 recognizes the States obligation to provide public assistance in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness, and disability. Further, Section 139 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 criminalizes the kidnapping or maiming of minors for the purpose of begging, highlighting the seriousness of child exploitation associated with the practice. Recognizing that criminalizing poverty cannot offer a lasting solution, the Government of India introduced the Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) Scheme. Under its component, Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Persons Engaged in the Act of Begging (SMILE-Beggary), the Government seeks to make India a Bhiksha Vritti Mukt Bharat through identification, counselling, rescue, rehabilitation, skill development, and reintegration into mainstream society. Rather than viewing beggars as offenders, the scheme seeks to restore dignity and self-confidence to individuals trapped in cycles of deprivation. With this objective, the Srinagar administration has intensified the implementation of the Centre-sponsored SMILE Scheme and announced a complete ban on begging activities across the district. The initiative seeks not only to remove begging from public spaces but also to rehabilitate those engaged in it and reintegrate them into mainstream society. According to the district administration, more than 1,000 persons involved in begging have been rehabilitated over the past two years and accommodated in old-age homes, shelter homes, and juvenile care institutions. Children found begging are being provided counselling, educational support, and access to welfare schemes. Mobile publicity vans and awareness campaigns have also been launched to encourage citizens to cooperate with the administration and report instances of begging. However, rehabilitation cannot merely mean shifting people from the streets to shelter homes. True rehabilitation requires addressing the circumstances that force people into begging in the first place. Poverty, unemployment, disability, addiction, family breakdown, old age, homelessness, and mental illness are some of the major factors that compel individuals to seek alms. Therefore, rehabilitation must include not only temporary shelter and food, but also healthcare, psychological counselling, education, vocational training, employment opportunities, and social security measures. Children rescued from begging must be provided with access to education and a safe environment, while elderly and disabled persons require sustained care and financial support. Unless these underlying causes are addressed, the cycle of begging is likely to continue. Equally important is the role of society. Citizens must move beyond the culture of charity and support initiatives aimed at rehabilitation and social inclusion. Offering money on the streets may provide temporary relief, but long-term solutions lie in empowering vulnerable individuals through opportunities, care, and dignity. Government agencies, NGOs, religious institutions, and local communities must work together to ensure that those rescued from begging are not abandoned again to poverty and exclusion. Srinagars initiative under the SMILE Scheme marks a significant shift from charity to rehabilitation. The real success of the campaign will not be measured by the absence of beggars on the streets, but by the number of lives transformed through dignity, care, and opportunities for a better future. A truly Bhiksha Vritti Mukt Bharat will not be achieved by merely clearing public spaces, but by ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity, security, self-reliance, and hope. ( The author is a research scholar at the University of Kashmir. rabiyamir119@gmail.com )
Stray dog threat grips Gund, Sonamarg
Ganderbal, Aug 7: The growing presence of stray dogs has become a major concern for residents across several areas of central Kashmirs Ganderbal district, with locals from Gund, Haknar, Rayil, Gagangir, Sonamarg Surfraw, Ganiwan and adjoining parts of Kangan in Central Kashmir's Ganderbal district saying they are facing inconvenience and fear, particularly during the morning and evening hours. Residents said packs of stray dogs are frequently seen roaming along roads, residential lanes and other public places, with many claiming that the animals often chase pedestrians. The situation has raised concerns among school-going children, elderly people and those who step out during early morning and evening hours for prayers. Locals said children are particularly vulnerable while walking to and from schools, while elderly residents often find it difficult to move freely because of the fear of being chased by stray dogs. People heading towards mosques during morning and evening prayers have also expressed apprehension over the situation. Abdul Gani, a local resident, said the presence of stray dogs has increased considerably in the area and people are now forced to remain alert while walking on roads. People, especially children and elderly persons, are scared when they see groups of stray dogs on the roads. They sometimes suddenly start chasing pedestrians, creating panic among people, he said. Mohd Sidiq, another resident, said the problem is not confined to one locality but is being witnessed across several areas along the Gund-Gagangir-Kangan belt. We see stray dogs roaming around Gund, Haknar, Rayil, Gagangir, Surfraw, Ganderbal, Sonamarg, Kangan and Ganiwan. During the morning and evening hours, the situation becomes more difficult as many people are out for work, school or prayers, he said. Hajra Begum, a local resident, said women, children and elderly people are particularly worried about the issue. Children are afraid to walk alone and elderly people also feel unsafe. We appeal to the concerned authorities to look into the matter before any unfortunate incident takes place, she said. Residents said the stray dog menace has also become a source of anxiety for families, particularly those with young children. They urged the concerned authorities to identify areas where stray dogs are frequently found and undertake sustained and humane measures to control their population. Locals maintained that a temporary response would not be sufficient and called for a proper mechanism involving regular monitoring, sterilisation and vaccination of stray dogs, along with measures to prevent their unchecked growth. Residents of the affected areas appealed to the administration and concerned civic authorities to take timely action and address the issue on priority, saying that ensuring safe movement of children, elderly people and other pedestrians should remain a key concern. They also urged authorities to pay particular attention to school routes, residential areas and roads leading to places of worship, where the movement of pedestrians increases during morning and evening hours.
Two Separate Political Identities: Why It Could Benefit Both Jammu and Kashmir
COLONEL AJAY K RAINA The demand for creating two political entities out of the present UT, i.e. a separate Jammu state/UT is often portrayed as a contest between two regions, as though the aspirations of Jammu can only be realised at the expense of Kashmir. This perception has obscured a more fundamental question: can the reorganisation of the present Union Territory create better governance, more balanced development and greater political stability for both regions? A careful examination suggests that it can. Across the world, administrative boundaries are periodically redrawn not because people become adversaries but because governance becomes more effective when institutions are aligned with regional aspirations, geographical realities and developmental priorities. India itself has repeatedly reorganised states on linguistic, cultural and administrative grounds. The creation of Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Telangana did not weaken the Indian Union. Instead, it allowed governments to focus on the distinct needs of their respective populations. The proposal for a separate Jammu deserves to be viewed in this context. It is not about dividing people but about improving governance. More importantly, it offers significant benefits not only to the people of Jammu but also to the people of Kashmir. For decades, the politics of the erstwhile state revolved around a perpetual struggle over power-sharing between Jammu and Kashmir. Every issuebudget allocations, recruitment, infrastructure, tourism, education, healthcare and administrative appointmentswas viewed through the prism of regional competition. Whether these perceptions were entirely justified is less important than the fact that they became deeply entrenched in public consciousness. The result was a political discourse in which each region increasingly believed that the other's gain came at its own expense. A separate Jammu state would fundamentally alter this equation. Instead of competing within a single political framework for limited resources and influence, the two regions would govern themselves according to their own priorities while continuing to remain integral parts of the Indian Union. For Jammu, the advantages are evident. Its government would be accountable solely to the people of Jammu. Development priorities would naturally reflect the region's own requirements, whether that means expanding pilgrimage tourism, harnessing the hydroelectric potential of the Chenab River, improving infrastructure in the remote districts like Poonch, Rajouri, Kishtwar etc, promoting industry in Kathua and Samba, or strengthening agriculture in the plains. Administrative attention would no longer be divided between two regions with very different developmental needs. Less discussed, however, are the equally significant advantages for Kashmir. Successive governments in Srinagar have had to balance competing regional demands while simultaneously dealing with complex security and political challenges unique to the Valley. A separate Kashmir administration would no longer need to reconcile two distinct regional agendas within a single governmental framework. This would allow greater policy focus on issues specific to the Valley, including horticulture, tourism, urban development, environmental conservation, flood management and employment generation. Political debates within Kashmir would also become more internally focused. Instead of regional representation becoming a recurring issue, public discourse could increasingly revolve around governance, economic development, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability. In mature democracies, governments are judged less by whom they represent geographically and more by how effectively they deliver public services. Administrative separation creates the opportunity for precisely such a transition. The economic benefits are equally compelling. Jammu and Kashmir possess fundamentally different comparative advantages. Jammu's economy is anchored in pilgrimage tourism, agriculture, logistics, hydropower and emerging industry. Kashmir's strengths lie in horticulture, handicrafts, high-end tourism, floriculture and knowledge-based services. Under separate administrations, each government could formulate policies tailored to its own economic profile instead of pursuing one-size-fits-all approaches. Tourism illustrates this distinction particularly well. Jammu can position itself as India's premier spiritual and adventure tourism destination, while Kashmir can concentrate on luxury tourism, winter sports, eco-tourism and international branding. Rather than competing for budgetary allocations, both governments could independently invest in infrastructure, marketing and destination development while continuing to cooperate on integrated tourism circuits that benefit visitors travelling across the Himalayan region. Infrastructure planning would similarly become more efficient. Jammu's priorities include industrial corridors, expressways, logistics hubs and connectivity to the plains. Kashmir's priorities increasingly centre on urban mobility, environmental protection, flood mitigation and sustainable tourism. Separate governments would enable each region to allocate resources according to its own developmental needs without constant negotiations over competing regional claims. The administrative benefits extend beyond economics. Smaller states generally enable governments to function closer to the people they serve. Decision-making becomes more responsive, bureaucratic accountability improves and public grievances are addressed more efficiently. While smaller size alone does not guarantee better governance, it often facilitates more focused administration, particularly in geographically diverse regions. Kashmiris have been voicing their concerns about the reservations in education, jobs etc, citing absence of any significant reserved category population in Kashmir, unlike in Jammu. Such apprehensions will also get addressed if the step towards a peaceful separation is taken. There is also an important psychological dimension. Much of the political friction between Jammu and Kashmir has stemmed not merely from policy differences but from perceptions of imbalance. Whether relating to employment, public expenditure, infrastructure or political representation, these perceptions have repeatedly shaped regional politics. Administrative separation removes many of these sources of recurring contention. Each government becomes responsible for its own successes and failures, reducing the tendency to attribute local problems to decisions made elsewhere. Critics often argue that separating Jammu would weaken Kashmir economically. Such concerns deserve careful examination but are not necessarily supported by experience elsewhere in India. Modern federal systems are built upon cooperation rather than administrative dependence. States routinely trade with one another, share river waters, coordinate transport, exchange electricity and collaborate on tourism without requiring political integration. Jammu and Kashmir would continue to share history, culture, economic linkages and infrastructure irrespective of administrative boundaries. Indeed, cooperation may become easier once competition diminishes. The two governments could jointly promote tourism circuits, coordinate disaster management, develop common transport infrastructure, facilitate trade, protect shared river systems and collaborate on higher education and healthcare. Such cooperation would rest upon partnership rather than political rivalry. Nor should statehood be viewed as a rejection of Kashmir's unique cultural identity. On the contrary, administrative autonomy allows each region greater freedom to preserve and promote its own linguistic, cultural and historical heritage. J Jammu's Dogra and Pahari legacy, diverse religious traditions and multilingual society would receive focused institutional support, while Kashmir could independently strengthen policies relating to Kashmiri language, arts, crafts and cultural preservation. Diversity within the Indian Union has always flourished through decentralisation rather than uniformity. There is also a broader national perspective. Stable governance in both Jammu and Kashmir serves India's long-term interests. Administrations that are more responsive to local needs are better positioned to deliver development, improve public services and strengthen democratic institutions. As regional grievances decline, politics can gradually shift from questions of representation to questions of governance and economic performance. Such a transformation benefits citizens regardless of region. Naturally, state reorganisation would involve transitional challenges. The division of assets, liabilities, government cadres and institutional responsibilities would require careful planning. Mechanisms for sharing river waters, electricity infrastructure, transport networks and administrative services would need to be negotiated. Yet India has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to manage such transitions peacefully through constitutional processes. These are administrative questions, not insurmountable obstacles. Ultimately, the debate should move beyond the assumption that one region's progress must come at the expense of the other. Jammu and Kashmir are distinct in geography, economy, history and developmental priorities. Recognising these differences through administrative reorganisation need not diminish either region. On the contrary, it offers both an opportunity to govern according to their own needs while continuing to cooperate as neighbours within the same federal framework. The true test of any constitutional arrangement is whether it improves the lives of ordinary citizens. If a separate Jammu state enables better governance, more balanced development, greater accountability and reduced regional friction, while allowing Kashmir to focus more effectively on its own priorities, then the proposal should not be viewed as a division of a shared legacy. It should be seen as an exercise in cooperative federalismone that seeks stronger institutions, better governance and greater prosperity for both Jammu and Kashmir. (The Author is a retired Army officer and the Chairman of JSPM)
CM Omar inaugurates upgraded Residency RoadHigh Street in Jammu
JAMMU, Aug 07: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday inaugurated the upgraded Residency RoadHigh Street in Jammu, a landmark urban infrastructure project executed by Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL) under the Smart City Mission at a cost of 9.18 crore. The project has transformed nearly 1.2 kilometres of the Residency RoadHigh Street corridor, covering the stretches from Raghunathji Mandir to CM House, Vivekanand Chowk to Raghunath Mandir Chowk, and Vir Marg Chowk to Vivekanand Chowk. As part of the upgradation, an underground communication corridor has been constructed and communication cables have been shifted underground to streamline utility infrastructure and enhance the area's visual appeal. The project also includes the development of new paver-block footpaths, a bituminous concrete road surface, and RCC drains, significantly improving civic infrastructure along the corridor. The upgraded corridor is expected to enhance pedestrian convenience, improve traffic movement and utility management, and contribute to a cleaner, more organised urban environment while lending a renewed aesthetic character to one of Jammu city's key commercial and civic corridors. MLA Jammu East Yudhvir Sethi, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary Housing & Urban Development Department Mandeep Kaur, CEO Jammu Smart City Limited Devansh Yadav, and other senior officers were present on the occasion.
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Saumitra Jha, Associate Professor of Political Economy at the Stanford Graduate School of Business, has been named a finalist for the prestigious Social Science Breakthrough of the Year by the Falling Walls Foundation. The international recognition honors his work on Breaking through the Ethnic Growth Trap, an ongoing research initiative that examines how societies can overcome entrenched intergroup divisions to build lasting stability and economic progress.
Police rescue 35 stranded after landslide in Ladakh
LEH, Aug 7: Kharu Police in UT Ladakh safely rescued 35 passengers, including foreign nationals, who were stranded after landslides blocked the Shang SumdoChokdo road in Kharu area of Ladakh, officials said here on Friday. The passengers were left stranded along the road following landslide activity that disrupted vehicular movement and made the route temporarily inaccessible. On receiving information about the situation, Kharu Police launched a rescue operation to ensure the safe evacuation of all those caught in the affected stretch. The rescue operation continued for around six hours, with police personnel working in coordination with the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Kharu, and the Lambardar of Shang. Joint efforts were made to reach the stranded passengers and move them to a safe location despite the difficult conditions caused by the landslide. Police officials maintained close coordination with the civil administration and local representatives throughout the operation, ensuring that the stranded group, which also included foreign nationals, was safely evacuated. All 35 passengers were rescued without any injuries, officials said, bringing the operation to a safe conclusion. Kharu Police also urged travellers to remain cautious while travelling through landslide-prone areas and to follow advisories issued by the administration and concerned authorities during adverse weather conditions.
Saints Gather in Vrindavan for Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Plans Ahead of Shila Poojan
Vrindavan, August 8: A significant meeting of saints took place in Vrindavan on August 7, focusing on the grand temple construction at Krishna Janmabhoomi and the upcoming car service. The gathering was held at the ashram of Mohini Sharan Maharaj and included participation from various akhadas, peeths, and religious organizations. The saints pledged their full ... Read more Saints Gather in Vrindavan for Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Plans Ahead of Shila Poojan
Ladakh to strengthen landslide safety on key roads
Leh, Aug 7: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena chaired a high-level review meeting with the Army, Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and UT Administration to assess disaster preparedness and preventive measures amid frequent landslides and rockfalls reported across the Union Territory in recent days. The incidents have caused extensive damage in several villages and disrupted traffic movement on key highways, raising concerns over the safety of residents, tourists and vital road infrastructure. The meeting focused on strengthening preparedness and ensuring timely intervention in vulnerable areas before such incidents escalate into major emergencies. During the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor directed concerned agencies to undertake immediate safety audits of identified high-risk stretches along the Leh-Kargil National Highway and the Khardung La route. He stressed the need for a detailed assessment of vulnerable slopes, rock faces and road sections to identify potential hazards and take preventive action. Saxena called for the deployment of advanced engineering and slope-stabilisation measures at vulnerable locations. These include rock bolting, flexible ring nets, soil nailing and smart detection systems aimed at reducing the risk of landslides and rockfalls and improving early warning capabilities. The LG also reviewed the preparedness and response mechanisms of the Army, BRO and civil administration in dealing with landslides, road blockages and other emergencies. He appreciated the forces and agencies for their prompt rescue operations and road-clearance efforts during recent incidents. However, Saxena emphasised that authorities must move beyond responding to disasters after they occur and adopt a more preventive approach. He urged all concerned agencies to shift from a reactive response to proactive safety and preventive measures, particularly along stretches that have repeatedly witnessed landslides and rockfalls. The meeting also underlined the importance of close coordination between the Army, BRO and UT Administration to ensure faster assessment, response and restoration of connectivity whenever roads are affected. The Lieutenant Governor stressed that the safety of human lives must remain the foremost priority while planning infrastructure and disaster-management measures in the mountainous region. Our priority remains safeguarding human lives, protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted and safe connectivity for all residents and tourists across Ladakh, Saxena said. The administration is expected to intensify preventive works along vulnerable road corridors, particularly before further weather-related disruptions, with a focus on strengthening slopes, improving monitoring systems and ensuring that emergency response teams remain prepared at critical locations.
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Former US congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene says Washington and other NATO governments have basically funded and fought a proxy war with Russia through Ukraine. She argues that Western weapons, intelligence and financing prevented the conflict from ending earlieran account disputed by Kyiv and NATO, which say their support protected Ukrainian sovereignty following Russias military intervention. No definitive evidence establishes that NATO collectively ordered Ukraine to reject a completed peace agreement. Watch.
What Did CENTCOM Track? Mystery Object Over Mideast Enters Pentagons Unsolved UFO Files
Newly released Pentagon footage shows a bright, unidentified object moving above what appears to be a densely built Middle Eastern city. Recorded in 2025 by a sensor aboard an undisclosed US military platform, the case was submitted by Central Command to the Pentagons anomaly-investigation office and remains publicly unresolved. Officials have not disclosed its location, size, altitude or speed, while possible explanations range from ordinary objects and sensor effects to foreign surveillance or secret technology. The material does not establish an extraterrestrial origin. Watch.
Man fights for life after plunging from Majorca flats onto pair drinking at bar
The man fell from a 12-storey building near Palma's Barcelona Square before reportedly hitting a tree then two other people Man fights for life after plunging from Majorca flats onto pair drinking at bar
Tequila giant Becle makes direct India push, appoints Shweta Jain as MD
Proximo is among the last major global spirits companies to establish a direct India operation. Most of its international rivals are already present in India, which ranks among the largest markets by volume for Diageo and Pernod Ricard, among others.
