80 rescued as cloudbursts hit Bandipora
Bandipora, Aug 3: More than 80 people were rescued after cloudbursts and flash floods triggered by incessant rainfall affected several parts of Bandipora district on Monday, prompting a large-scale rescue and evacuation operation by the police. In a statement the police said, acting on the directions of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), police teams were rushed to the affected areas of Arin, Dardpora, Sumlar, Aragam and other vulnerable locations following reports of cloudbursts and rising water levels. Officials said over 80 stranded persons were rescued from Neelupati Sirender and shifted to safer locations. In Tota Mode, two families were evacuated after their houses were damaged in flash floods, while three residential houses sustained damage in Sathri. In Gori Hajin, Aragam, police personnel, assisted by JCB machines, evacuated several families trapped by floodwaters. Passengers stranded near the Tangwani-Garoora bridge were also rescued after a sudden rise in the water level. Despite damage to houses and infrastructure in several areas, no casualties were reported due to the timely response of the police and other emergency agencies. Police said personnel remain deployed in vulnerable areas to monitor the situation, assist affected residents and respond to emergencies. They also advised the public to avoid flood-prone areas and follow advisories issued by the district administration. Residents appreciated the rescue efforts, commending the police for their prompt response during the natural calamity.
Digital Payment Frauds Touch Rs 4,457 Cr In 11 Years, Govt Says
SRINAGAR: Digital payment frauds involving Rs 4,457.03 crore were reported in India over the 11 financial years from 2015-16 to 2025-26, with the banking system recording a cumulative 8,22,781 cases, according to data placed before the Lok Sabha on Monday. The data, furnished by the Ministry of Finance in response to a question on the []
50-year-old mauled by bear in Ganderbal
Ganderbal, Aug 3: A 50-year-old woman from Kalaspati Rayil Gund in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district was seriously injured after being attacked by a wild bear in the Burzapati Behak area of central Kashmir's Ganderbal district on Monday. The injured woman has been identified as Rashida Begum, wife of Ghulam Dawood Gakhad, a resident of Kalaspati Rayil Gund. According to officials the attack took place in the upper meadow area of Burzapati Behak, where the woman was reportedly present when the bear suddenly attacked her, leaving her with injuries. Soon after the incident, locals and Gund Police rushed to the spot and shifted the injured woman for medical assistance. She was later referred to SKIMS Soura in Srinagar through a 108 ambulance for specialised treatment. Police confirmed the incident and said that further details regarding the extent of her injuries and the circumstances surrounding the attack will be known after her medical examination and treatment. The incident has once again highlighted the increasing incidents of human-wildlife conflict particularly during the summer months when residents move to high-altitude meadows for grazing livestock and other activities. Authorities have advised people living in or visiting forest and pasture areas to remain vigilant and avoid venturing into isolated locations alone. Police have taken cognisance of the incident, while the woman's condition is being monitored at SKIMS Soura.
SRINAGAR: An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police died after collapsing while on duty in the Mawer area of Handwara in north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Monday. Officials said the ASI suddenly collapsed while performing his duties in Mawer and was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead []
KU, Rashtriya Raksha University sign MoU to boost research, academic ties
Srinagar, Aug 3: The University of Kashmir (KU) and the Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), an Institution of National Importance under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen academic collaboration and promote joint research in areas of mutual interest. The MoU was signed at the office of the Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir, by RRU Jammu and Kashmir Campus Director Dr Mahesh Tripathi and KU Registrar Prof (Dr) Naseer Iqbal. The signing ceremony was attended by KU Vice Chancellor Prof (Dr) Neelofar Khan, RRU Lifetime Professor Prof (Dr) Mehraj Ud Din Mir, Dean and Head of KU's School of Law Prof (Dr) Shahnaz, Special Secretary to the Vice Chancellor Dr Ashfaq Ahmad Zari, RRU Senior Law Faculty Dr Mudasir Bhat, and KU Senior Law Faculty Dr Mohammad Yaseen Wani. The agreement aims to enhance cooperation through joint research projects, student and faculty exchange programmes, internships, and credit transfer under the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS). The two institutions will also collaborate in teacher training, academic consultation and skill development in national security, behavioural and forensic sciences, law, police administration, criminology and other multidisciplinary fields. Officials said the partnership is expected to strengthen academic engagement between the two universities and create new opportunities for collaborative teaching, research and capacity building.
31 Killed in 35 Cloudbursts Across Jammu Kashmir This Year
Chenab Valley bears the brunt as experts seek stronger early warning systems, hazard mapping and stricter land-use regulations
Two Appointed as Assistant Directors in Jammu Kashmir Economics and Statistics Service
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has appointed two candidates as Assistant Directors (Economics and Statistics) in the JK Economics and Statistics (Gazetted) Service under the Planning, Development and Monitoring Department. According to Government Order No. 80-JK(PD and MD) of 2026, the appointments have been made on a temporary basis in Pay Level-8 (Rs 47,6001,51,100) []
Jammu Kashmir Govt Forms High-Level Panel to Fast-Track National Centre of Excellence at Awantipora
Core group headed by Youth Services & Sports Commissioner-Secretary to oversee land transfer, clearances, infrastructure planning and inter-departmental coordination for the project
Cloudbursts Trigger Flash Floods Across Kashmir; Woman Dies in Kupwara, Hundreds Evacuated
SRINAGAR: A series of cloudbursts lashed several parts of Kashmir on Monday, triggering flash floods that claimed the life of a woman in Kupwara district, damaged infrastructure and forced authorities to evacuate hundreds of residents and tourists to safer locations. The deceased, identified as Naseema Begum (52), was swept away by a flash flood after []
Flash Flood Damage Forces Rajouri DC Office To Shift To New Premises
Old Deputy Commissioner's office declared unsafe; public advised to visit new location until further orders
ASI dies after collapsing on duty in Handwara
Kupwara, Aug 03 : An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest while on duty in the Mawer area of Handwara in north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Monday. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the ASI collapsed while performing his duties in Mawer. He said the policeman was shifted to a hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. The official said the ASI is suspected to have suffered a cardiac arrest that led to his death. His identity is yet to be ascertained, while further investigation has been taken up.(KNO)
J-K: Paper leak allegations surface at GMC Doda; MLA seeks inquiry, college denies claims
Doda , August 3 : A controversy has erupted at Government Medical College (GMC) Doda after Doda MLA Mehraj Malik alleged an examination paper leak and sought an immediate inquiry, while the college administration categorically denied the allegations. In a letter addressed to the Principal of GMC Doda, Malik said he had received information from reliable sources regarding an alleged paper leak that reportedly took place on August 2. The MLA requested the preservation of CCTV footage recorded between 5 pm and 9 pm, covering the area from the main gate to the academic section through the Principal's office lobby, to ensure that no evidence is deleted or tampered with. He also called for a fair and impartial inquiry and urged the college administration to preserve all relevant records, including CCTV footage, examination material, attendance records and other related evidence. A copy of the letter was also forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner, Doda. Responding to the allegations, GMC Doda issued an official circular stating that reports of an examination paper leak being circulated on social media were false, baseless and misleading. The college clarified that no examination paper had been leaked at the institution and appealed to the public not to believe or circulate unverified information. As of now, the allegations remain unverified. While the MLA has sought an investigation into the matter, the college administration has denied any paper leak, and no official inquiry confirming the allegations has been announced. The allegations at GMC Doda come after the broader controversy over NEET paper leaks, which triggered protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and led to the resignation of then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. (ANI)
Rajya Sabha Data Shows 12,915 Women-Owned Manufacturing MSMEs Registered in Jammu Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir recorded 12,915 registrations of women-owned manufacturing MSMEs in 2025-26, while the number of such enterprises reported closed on the Udyam Registration Portal rose to 181, according to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Monday. The figures, provided by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in response to Unstarred []
Srinagar, August 03, 2026: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha today attended Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST) conference on Strengthening Climate Resilience and Livelihoods in the Himalayan Region through Nature-based Solutions. He also inaugurated Civil and Mechanical Engineering Block at the main campus, IUSTs Larmoo Campus and the Law School. The Lieutenant Governor [] The post Lieutenant Governor Attends IUSTs Conference; Calls for Nature-Based Solutions for Building Climate Resilience in the Himalayas appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Cloudburst triggers flash floods in Kashmir parts, woman dies
Srinagar , 3 August : A woman died after a cloudburst triggered a flash flood in Himli area of Lolab in north Kashmirs Kupwara district on Monday, police said. The deceased has been identified as Naseema Begum, wife of Mohd Ayub, a resident of Warnow. Police said her body was recovered following a search operation after the cloudburst caused a sudden surge of water in the area. Officials said that damage assessment is underway and further details are awaited. In south Kashmir, another cloudburst struck Batkoot area of Pahalgam in Anantnag district, triggering flash floods and creating panic among locals and tourists. Authorities said teams have been deployed to monitor the situation and assess the impact. The heavy rains also disrupted connectivity. Officials said the AishmuqamPahalgam road has been blocked at Langnai Bridge due to flooding. In addition, the bridge at Langnai Batkoot has suffered damage because of the strong water current. Residents and travelers have been advised to avoid the affected areas until the situation is brought under control. (GNS)
Rain Triggers Slush, Shut Jammu-Srinagar Highway
Srinagar , 03 August : Traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was suspended on Monday evening after heavy rainfall triggered slush near Dawal Bridge in Udhampur district, making the road unsafe for vehicles. The highway has been restricted to a single carriageway at the Dawal slide point in the Samroli area due to muddy and slippery conditions. Officials said NHAI teams, machinery, and Traffic Police personnel have been deployed to clear the affected stretch and restore movement. Commuters have been advised to avoid travelling on NH-44 until the road is declared safe and to rely only on official traffic updates.
MP: Congress retains Datia assembly seat; Ghanshyam Singh defeats BJPs Tiwari by 6,000 votes
DATIA: The Congress on Monday retained the Datia assembly seat in Madhya Pradesh, with the party candidate Ghanshyam Singh defeating his nearest rival Ashutosh Tiwari of the BJP by 6,016 votes in the byelection marked by differences in the saffron camp over the choice of candidate. At the end of all 15 rounds of counting, []
Sakina Itoo Hails Owais Yaqoob's BRAVE CF Triumph, Auqib Nabi's India Test Selection
Srinagar, Aug. 3: Cabinet minister for Education, Health & Medical Education and Social Welfare in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir Sakina Itoo has congratulated mixed martial artist Owais Yaqoob and cricketer Auqib Nabi for their outstanding achievements on the international and national sporting stage. In a post on X, the minister hailed Owais Yaqoob for his spectacular victory at BRAVE CF 107 in Bulgaria, where he defeated an unbeaten two-time IMMAF World Champion in an impressive display of skill, determination, and resilience. She also extended her congratulations to Auqib Nabi on his well-deserved selection to the Indian Test squad, describing it as a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir. Both of you have brought immense pride to Jammu & Kashmir and inspired a new generation of young athletes. Wishing you continued success and many more laurels for the nation, Itoo said in her message. The minister's congratulatory message has been widely appreciated, with both athletes being recognised for raising the profile of Jammu and Kashmir through their achievements in their respective sports.
MP: Congress retains Datia assembly seat; Ghanshyam Singh defeats BJP&K gets statehood: CMs Advisor
Baramulla: National Conference (NC) will continue its campaign for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs statehood until the demand is fulfilled, said Chief Ministers Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani on Monday. Speaking to reporters in Baramulla, Wani, said the recent protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi was the first step toward reminding the Centre of []
Lieutenant Governor calls for nature-based solutions for building climate resilience in Himalayas
Srinagar, Aug 03: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST) conference on Strengthening Climate Resilience and Livelihoods in the Himalayan Region through Nature-based Solutions. He also inaugurated Civil and Mechanical Engineering Block at the main campus, IUSTs Larmoo Campus and the Law School. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the IUST for their initiatives and lauded the University's policy brief on the Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir campaign. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the alarming pace of climate change in the Himalayan region. He noted that between January and August last year, the Himalayas witnessed a natural disaster almost every day. In Jammu Kashmir alone, flash floods and cloudbursts have damaged public infrastructure, disrupting roads, water supply schemes, and power feeders. The Lieutenant Governor observed that there is no dichotomy between development and conservation and the nature itself is infrastructure. For example, constructing a watershed is also an effective flood-control system. It is infrastructure that also serves as a water purification system and forms the basis of an irrigation system. Similarly, a wetland is natures vast reservoir because it absorbs excess water during the monsoon and then slowly gives life to surrounding areas during the dry months. A dense forested mountain slope is in fact like a strong wall that protects the entire mountain from collapsing onto the villages below. Therefore, I believe that when we destroy these natural systems, we are playing with the future. But when we conserve and restore these natural systems, we are investing in a bright future, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor urged the scientists and domain experts to bring Nature-based Solutions out of the margins of development planning and place them at its centre. He also placed six major recommendations before policymakers, scientists, and engineers. Use modern technologies like remote sensing, geospatial mapping, and AI to track glacier retreat, spring flow, soil health, and forest cover. This data should inform every development project in the region. Nature-based Solutions must be embedded into project budgeting, appraisal, and monitoring. Farmers, shepherds, orchard owners, and tribal communities must be equal stakeholders. Their generational knowledge of rivers, mountains, and forests is invaluable. Annual budget reviews should include whether forests and ecosystems have grown richer or weaker, ensuring accountability for environmental wealth. Establish platforms for long-term cooperation among scientists, policymakers, and communities. Move beyond concrete embankments to restore floodplains and wetlands, combining built structures with natural systems, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor urged universities to elevate Nature-based Solutions into a multidisciplinary subject, spanning ecology, hydrology, engineering, economics, disaster management, and traditional knowledge. He stressed that future professionals must understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems, economies, technologies, and societies. Recalling the Green Jammu Kashmir Drive launched in 2020, which raised forest cover to nearly 55 percent, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated the importance of sustainable living. He envisioned a Himalaya where watersheds are healthier, wetlands thrive, and rivers flow naturally, sustaining biodiversity and culture. By placing nature at the centre of development, integrating modern technology with traditional wisdom, and involving communities as equal partners, the Himalayan region can build resilience against climate change. We must remember that Himalayas are not merely a geographical entity but a living heritage that demands foresight, patience, and responsibility, the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor released the special edition of IUST's monthly magazine 'Times Echo' on 100-Day Anti-Drug campaign and Policy Brief on Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan, prepared by various experts of J&K. Certificates were also handed over to the PMKVY trainees. Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Chief Justice (Acting), High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh; Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST; Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, IUST; Prof. Javed Hussain Mir, Convener of the Conference; eminent scientists, experts, senior officials, faculty and students attended the conference.
Flash Floods Hit Shopian Villages, Homes Inundated; SDRF Deploys Rescue Teams
SRINAGAR: Intense rainfall triggered flash floods in Shopian district on Monday, inundating several houses in Badrhama village and causing panic among residents. Quoting officials news agency GNS reported that the sudden downpour led to an overflow of water into residential areas, damaging property. Fortunately, no loss of life or injuries have been reported so far. []
Power Losses Remain A Major Challenge For Jammu Kashmir As Distribution Losses Stay High: Centre
Govt says reforms under RDSS aimed at reducing losses and improving reliability of electricity supply
Textile Sector Employs Over 2.3 Lakh People In Jammu Kashmir, Exports Cross Rs 850 Crore In 2025-26
SRINAGAR: The textile and apparel sector in Jammu and Kashmir has provided employment to over 2.3 lakh people, while exports from the Union Territory crossed Rs 850 crore in the financial year 2025-26, the Ministry of Textiles informed the Rajya Sabha. In a written reply to an unstarred question by MP Gulam Ali, Minister of []
Over 1,000 pilgrims leave Jammu for Amarnath cave shrine in Kashmir
JAMMU: The 26th batch of over 1,000 devotees left Jammu base camp on Monday for the annual Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir amid multi-tier security arrangements, officials said. Over 4.50 lakh pilgrims have visited the 3,880 metre high holy cave shrine of Amarnath in Kashmir Himalayas since the commencement of the yatra on July 3. The []
Centre Reports Rs 193.49 Crore Financial Fraud in Jammu Kashmir in 202526
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir recorded 103 financial fraud cases involving Rs 193.49 crore in 2025-26, with banks reporting recovery of Rs 6.92 crore, according to data placed before the Lok Sabha on Monday. The figures, provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in response to Unstarred Question No. 2460, show that the number of []
Jammu Kashmir Records 5,908 Small Companies, 585 LLPs in Five Years: Centre
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir recorded the registration of 5,908 small companies and 585 Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) over the last five financial years, while 1,231 startups were registered in the Union Territory between 2021 and 2025, according to data placed before the Lok Sabha on Monday. The figures were provided by Minister of State for []
Rainfall, Thunderstorms Set to Lash Parts of Jammu Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Rain and thundershowers are likely to affect many parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the next 12 hours, with the Jammu region expected to witness the maximum impact, according to an update issued by weather forecaster Kashmir Weather. The weather update said considerable cloud development has taken place near the Jammu plains, with the []
Digital Divide Persists in Jammu Kashmir Schools as Only 3,066 Have Smart Classrooms, Data Shows
SRINAGAR: Only 3,066 of the 24,228 operational schools in Jammu and Kashmir had smart classrooms in 2025-26, while 6,203 had computer facilities and 8,550 had internet connectivity, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Education in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The figures, based on UDISE+ data, highlight the continuing digital infrastructure gap []
Jammu Kashmir Gets Rs 60,240 Crore PMMY Credit Through 26.57 Lakh Loans: Centre
SRINAGAR: As many as 26.57 lakh loans amounting to Rs 60,240.14 crore have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) in Jammu and Kashmir since the scheme was launched in April 2015, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Finance in the Lok Sabha on Monday. Of the total loan accounts []
21 Suspected Bangladeshi Nationals Held In Ramban While Travelling Towards Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Police in Jammu and Kashmirs Ramban district have detained 21 people suspected to be Bangladeshi nationals, including women and children, after they were intercepted while travelling towards the Kashmir Valley, officials said on Monday. The group was stopped at a checkpoint during a routine inspection on Sunday while travelling in two vehicles from Jammu. []
Cabinet memo ready for compassionate jobs to relatives of deceased Anganwadi staff: Sakina Itoo
Baramulla: Minister Sakina Itoo on Monday said the government has prepared a cabinet memorandum to provide compassionate appointments to the relatives of Anganwadi workers and helpers who die while in service. Addressing an awareness programme in Baramulla, Itoo, said the proposal seeks to ensure that a family member of a deceased Anganwadi worker or helper []
Bill to increase Supreme Court judges passed by LS without debate; House adjourned for day
NEW DELHI: The Lok Sabha on Monday passed a bill to replace an ordinance which increased the number of Supreme Court judges from 34 to 38, including Chief Justice of India, without a debate as opposition members raised slogans against the NEET paper leaks and alleged theft of Ram temple donations. A statutory resolution moved []
CM Omar congratulates J&Ks MMA star Owais Yaqoob on historic BRAVE CF 107 victory
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 03: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today congratulated Jammu & Kashmirs talented Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Owais Yaqoob on his remarkable victory at BRAVE CF 107 in Bulgaria, where he defeated an unbeaten two-time IMMAF World Champion in a stunning display of skill, determination and grit. Describing the achievement as a proud moment for Jammu & Kashmir and the nation, the Chief Minister lauded Owais Yaqoob for bringing international recognition to the region through his outstanding performance on the global stage. Heartiest congratulations to Owais Yaqoob on this remarkable achievement. Defeating an unbeaten two-time IMMAF World Champion at BRAVE CF 107 is an extraordinary feat and a testament to his hard work, dedication and exceptional talent, the Chief Minister said. He said Owaiss success would inspire countless young sportspersons across Jammu & Kashmir to pursue excellence and believe in their potential. The Chief Minister wished the young fighter continued success in his career and expressed confidence that he would bring many more laurels to Jammu & Kashmir and the country in the years to come.
Short: Jannats Mission Dal Lake: How a FatherDaughter Duo is Saving Kashmirs Water Commons
Delhi HC seeks NIA stand on appeals by Aasiya Andrabi, 2 others against conviction in UAPA case
New Delhi, Aug 3: The Delhi High Court on Monday sought the stand of the NIA on appeals by hardline separatist Aasiya Andrabi and her two associates challenging their conviction for conspiring to wage war against India and being members of a terrorist organisation under stringent anti-terror law UAPA. Andrabi (62), the founder of the all-women separatist group Dukhtaran-e-Millat (DeM) in 1987, and her close aides -- Nahida Nasreen (58), and Sofi Fehmeeda (48)-- were convicted by the special NIA court on January 14, which said the trio had orchestrated a systematic campaign to destabilise J-K. On March 24, the trial court awarded life imprisonment to Andrabi, while Fehmeeda and Nasreen received a 30-year prison sentence. On Monday, a bench of Justices Prathiba M Singh and Vikas Mahajan condoned the delay in filing the appeals against the trial court decision and said it would issue notice to the investigating agency in the matter. The bench also gave time till September 15 to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to reply to their pleas seeking suspension of sentence and listed the matter for hearing on October 6. Andrabi and her two associates were formally charged with multiple offences under the stringent UAPA and the IPC in February 2021. It was alleged that they plotted to wage war against the country, besides conspiring to carry out terror-related activities. The trial court found them guilty of offences under UAPA sections 18 (punishment for conspiracy) and 38 (offence relating to membership of a terrorist organisation). It also convicted the three under IPC sections 153 A (promoting enmity between different groups), 153B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national-integration), 121-A (conspiracy to wage war against Government of India), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 505 (statements conducing to public mischief). While sentencing the convicts, the trial judge said o remorse has been shown by any of the convicts in respect of their acts; rather it is submitted that they are proud of what they were doing and also that they will continue to do the same work. Showing any leniency will amount to infusing a fresh lease of life and vigour in the spirit of convicts which aims at secession of an integral part of India, the trial judge had stated. In April 2018, on directions of the Union Home Ministry, the NIA registered a case against them as well as the DeM. According to the FIR, the central government has received information that Aasiya Andrabi and her associates namely Sofi Fehmeeda and Nahida Nasreen are actively running a terrorist organisation named as 'Dukhtaran-E-Millat' (DeM) which is proscribed under the First Schedule to the UAPA. They are using various media platforms to spread insurrectionary imputations and hateful speeches that endanger the integrity, security and sovereignty of India. The DEM through Andrabi openly advocates secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India and has also called for Jihad and use of violence against India, the FIR alleged. The agency also said that Andrabi and her associates had spoken, written and also published visible representations that bring into hatred and contempt apart from exciting disaffection towards the Government of India. The organisation, it added, is promoting enmity, hatred and ill-will between different communities on the grounds of religion and is doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony. Andrabi has solicited help from proscribed terrorist organisations and along with her associates, has entered into a criminal conspiracy to wage war against the Government of India, the FIR alleged. Andrabi was arrested by the Jammu and Kashmir police in Anantnag in April 2018 for allegedly planning to organise a large-scale demonstration and stone-pelting in the area. She was subsequently sent to jail.
Bankipur bypoll results: Prashant Kishor widens lead to 6,011 votes over BJP candidate
PATNA: Jan Suraaj Party candidate Prashant Kishor on Monday widened his lead over BJPs Neeraj Kumar Sinha to 6,011 votes in the Bankipur assembly by-election as the counting progressed in Bihar, officials said. A celebratory mood was witnessed among Jan Suraaj Party supporters at its headquarters here. While political strategist-turned-politician Kishor bagged 20,059 votes, Sinha []
Rain, Thunderstorms to Lash J&K; Heavy Showers Likely in Several Districts
Srinagar, Aug. 3: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms across many parts of Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days, while warning of heavy rain, flash floods and landslides at vulnerable locations. According to the forecast, August 3 and 4 are likely to witness spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places, particularly during the afternoon, evening and early morning hours. Heavy rain, brief intense showers and torrential rainfall are also expected over a few districts. From August 5 to 7, light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely at many places, with brief intense heavy showers expected at isolated locations. The weather is expected to improve slightly between August 8 and 10, with the possibility of light rain and thundershowers at scattered places, although brief intense showers may still occur at a few locations. In its advisory, the MeT Centre warned of the possibility of heavy rain and brief intense showers over a few districts of the Jammu division on August 3 and 4. The weather office also cautioned that torrential rain and intense showers could trigger flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas over the next five days, advising people to remain alert and follow official weather updates.
Youth found dead in Sopore, investigation begins
Sopore: A youth was found dead under mysterious circumstances at his residence in the Dangerpora area of Sopore in north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Monday, officials said. An official said that the youth was found unconscious at his residence in Pal Mohalla, Dangerpora. He said a police team immediately reached the spot, took the body []
Trump says US-Iran talks to begin Monday after shelving planned strike
Washington, August 3 : US President Donald Trump stated that negotiations with Iran, expected to take place through intermediaries, are scheduled to commence on Monday. Speaking to reporters on board Air Force One, Trump confirmed that discussion channels were active. We are talking to them [the Iranians] in the form of a negotiation; it begins tomorrow afternoon, and we'll see how it goes. I'd love to do that. It'll save a lot of lives, a lot of unnecessary power, to be honest with you. We are ready to go whenever we want. Would I rather make a deal? I'm not looking to kill people, because a lot of people die; we don't want that. So they asked us, Iran specifically, but the other three, they asked us, Trump said. The US President revealed that diplomatic engagements involving Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Iran led him to halt what was originally planned as a massive attack on Friday. Trump further indicated that an agreement could be reached regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz, while asserting that an accord would be established concerning the denuclearisation of Iran. The sudden turn towards diplomacy comes as mediators race to reactivate a dynamic framework between Washington and Tehran. According to Israeli media reports on Sunday, regional intermediaries are attempting to revive a memorandum of understanding signed last month to ensure the strategic waterway remains open, fee-free, for 60 days. Iranian state media similarly indicated that discussions between Iran and Oman concerning a joint operational mechanism to govern the maritime corridor were in their final stages. The initial framework had previously collapsed due to conflicting interpretations, with Trump asserting the passage would remain open permanently, while Tehran maintained the agreement preserved its sovereign control over the trade route. Behind-the-scenes diplomatic pressure over the weekend played a pivotal role in averting immediate conflict. Qatari officials engaged in intensive talks with Iran, the US and Oman, ultimately informing Trump on Saturday that Tehran had accepted a proposal regarding the strait. Concurrently, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held a telephone call with Trump to urge against military action. Following these exchanges, Trump announced on Truth Social that he was halting the planned strikes, citing progress on the shipping route and nuclear discussions. Although no military strikes were recorded overnight into Sunday, Iranian military leaders rejected Trump's characterisation as a lie, while a source tied to Tehran's delegation told the semi-official Fars News Agency that no formal accord on the strait had yet been reached. Meanwhile, opinions among Gulf allies remain sharply divided over how Washington should handle Tehran. The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that while Saudi Arabia counselled restraint, the United Arab Emirates lobbied Washington for more assertive military action, arguing that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps would not alter its course without direct US force. (ANI)
Bankipur bypoll results: Prashant Kishor leads by 862 votes over BJP rival in early trends
PATNA: (Jan Suraaj Party candidate Prashant Kishor was leading by a margin of 862 votes over BJPs Neeraj Kumar Sinha in the early trends of Bankipur by-election results, officials said on Monday. While political strategist-turned-politician Kishor bagged 2,225 votes, Sinha got 1,363 votes and RJDs Rekha Gupta stood third with 505 votes after the first []
J&K's Aquib Nabi Replaces Bumrah in India Test Squad
Srinagar, Aug 3: Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Aquib Nabi has earned his maiden call up to the Indian Test team after being named as the replacement for injured pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming two match World Test Championship 2027 series against Sri Lanka. Bumrah has been ruled out after failing to recover fully from a knee injury. The uncapped pacer has been rewarded for his impressive performances in domestic cricket, where he consistently emerged as one of the leading wicket takers. His selection marks a big milestone for J&K cricket, with Nabi becoming one of the few cricketers from the region to receive a Test call up. India will begin the Sri Lanka Test series on August 15, with Aquib now in line to make his international debut if included in the playing eleven.
Auqib Nabi Set to Join Indias Test Squad for Sri Lanka Series
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi is set to receive his maiden senior India call-up after being approved as Jasprit Bumrahs replacement for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, becoming only the third cricketer from the Union Territory to earn a place in the national mens team. The right-arm pacer is expected []
Digital News outlets restricted in Pakistan following coverage of PoJK tensions: Reports
Islamabad , August 3 : Digital censorship measures have been escalated in Pakistan, with access reportedly being restricted to various news websites across Pakistan following widespread media reports and critical coverage of the ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). In tandem with the blocking of local and regional digital news domains, incoming reports indicate that international broadcasters, including Al Jazeera English, have also become inaccessible to users within parts of the country. The restrictions target platforms reporting on the recent wave of protests, alleged security crackdowns, and mounting public grievances in the region. However, there has been no official confirmation from Pakistan regarding the restrictions. The moves come amid heightened sensitivity over information flows regarding the political climate and local resistance movements in PoJK. Earlier, Al Jazeera reported that the judicial magistrate court in Islamabad said it was seeking the ban after the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency criticised various YouTube channels in a June 2 report for sharing highly intimidating, provocative and derogatory contents against state institutions and officials of the state of Pakistan. The channels at risk of being blocked in Pakistan include those belonging to the main opposition party, its leader and jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, as well as several journalists critical of the government, according to a court order dated June 24. Notably, earlier in July, Al Jazeera reported that an Islamabad judicial magistrate court sought to block several YouTube channels following a June 2 report by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency. The agency criticised these platforms for allegedly sharing highly intimidating, provocative, and derogatory content targeting state institutions and officials. As detailed in a June 24 court order cited by Al Jazeera, the channels facing potential bans include those associated with the primary opposition party, its leadership, and jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, alongside multiple journalists known for their government criticism. Al Jazeera noted that digital rights campaigners have warned that these bans would further suppress freedom of expression in Pakistan. With traditional television and print media heavily stifled by authorities, social media remains one of the few remaining avenues for public dissent. Additionally, YouTube notified 27 content creators that their channels risk being removed if they fail to comply with the court directives, Al Jazeera reported. Meanwhile, the Joint Awami Action Committee has released urgent details regarding ongoing violence in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, releasing footage that purportedly shows security forces dragging and assaulting an unarmed civilian in the street. According to the committee, an individual in civilian clothing is standing alongside security forces and is discharging a firearm toward protesters. The appeal comes against a backdrop of mounting casualties during the ongoing protest movement. According to data updated by the Human Rights Council of Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (HRC-PoJK) as of Sunday, a total of 80 fatalities have been documented, comprising 33 civilian deaths prior to July 27, 43 from July 27 onwards across Rawalakot, Mirpur, and Muzaffarabad, and 4 Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir police personnel. In response to these events, the Joint Awami Action Committee is calling on the United Nations, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, international media outlets, and diplomatic missions to examine the footage, independently verify the facts, and press for an immediate, independent, and impartial investigation. Furthermore, the committee has urged the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to closely monitor the deteriorating humanitarian situation and ensure that injured individuals and affected civilians receive necessary protection and assistance in line with its mandate. The fresh developments come a day after the second phase of elections in Pakistan-occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK) witnessed widespread disruptions, logistical failures and continuing protests on Sunday, casting a shadow over the electoral process and raising fresh questions over its credibility. Polling was scheduled across 21 constituencies, including nine constituencies in the Muzaffarabad Division of PoJK and 12 refugee constituencies located in different parts of Pakistan. The voting process was disrupted in several constituencies due to road blockades and protests. (ANI)
Moderate Earthquake Strikes Egypt, Emergency Response Activated
SRINAGAR: A 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck Egypts northeastern Ismailia province early on Monday, prompting authorities to activate emergency measures, although there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. According to Trkiyes Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the earthquake occurred at 3 a.m. local time (0000 GMT) at a depth of 5.47 kilometres. The tremor []
Counting underway for Datia assembly bypoll in MP; tight security in place
DATIA (MP): Counting of votes for the bypoll to the Datia assembly constituency in Madhya Pradesh commenced on Monday, officials said. The bypoll was necessitated after a Delhi court in April this year sentenced Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti to three years imprisonment in a cheating case, leading to the termination of his assembly membership. The []
MEI School Pampore organises Grand Alumni Meet 2026
Over 100 former students reunite to celebrate legacy WAMIQ HAYAT PAMPORE: Muslim Education Institute (MEI), Pampore, organised a grand Alumni Meet 2026 (Phase-I) at its campus in Saffron Town, Pampore, on Sunday, bringing together former students from different batches to reconnect and celebrate their lifelong association with the institution. The event witnessed the participation of []
Traders Association Lal Chowk inducts Mohammad Hussain Matto as Executive Member
Charts future plans for business community SRINAGAR: A meeting of the Traders Association Lal Chowk was held at the Association Office, 2nd Floor, Royal Sweets, Amira Kadal, under the presidentship of Mr. Mohammad Iqbal Khan, which unanimously approved the induction of Mr. Mohammad Hussain Matto, Proprietor of M/s Royal Choice, Amira Kadal, as an Executive []
GCOE Sgrorganises Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan 2026 awareness campaign
SRINAGAR: The Nasha Mukti Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) Cell of the Government College of Education (GCoE), IASE, Srinagar, successfully organised a comprehensive institutional campaign under the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan 2026 on Sunday. Conducted under the leadership of the Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Seema Naz, the campaign focused on addressing the growing []
KU joins nationwide GenZ Against Addictioncampaign
SRINAGAR: The University of Kashmir on Sunday joined the nationwide GenZ Against Addiction, Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan, launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, with a programmeorganised by the Department of Students Welfare, KU at Gandhi Bhawan. Presiding over the programme, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nilofer Khan, []
NIT Srinagar students join PM Modis Nasha Mukt Viksit Bharat Abhiyan
Registrar urges youth to become ambassadors of drug-free India SRINAGAR: Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modis call for a Nasha Mukt Viksit Bharat, dozens of students, including NSS volunteers and NCC cadets, of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Sunday participated in a series of anti-drug awareness activities, including a pledge ceremony, a []
MY Bharat Anantnag empowers youth as dynamic agents of change
ANANTNAG: In a significant step toward empowering the youth and building a drug-free nation, MY Bharat Anantnag, under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, organised a special youth awareness program on Sunday at Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports (JIM&WS), Pahalgam. Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR), Tariq Ahmad []
Students need no forgiveness: Rahul Gandhi says Modi owes them truth, justice & apology
NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks of forgiving students, but it is the government that owes the students truth, justice and an apology. Gandhi made the remarks in an Instagram post as he shared a video of his interaction with the families of Gopika, Roshini and Vetri []
CJPs key members to meet on Aug 5 to decide future strategy
NEW DELHI: Core members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) will hold a meeting in Maharashtras Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on August 5 to discuss their future agenda, sources in the outfit said on Sunday. The meeting will take place at CJP founder Abhijeet Dipkes residence, they said. According to sources, activists and volunteers of the CJP []
Rahim Rather inaugurates cricket tournament at Tujan
Budgam, Aug 2: Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather on Sunday inaugurated a local cricket tournament at Tujan in which more than 32 teams from various urban and rural areas are participating Addressing the participating players local gathering, officials and organisers, the Speaker emphasized that sports play a pivotal role in the holistic development of youth by fostering discipline, teamwork, leadership, perseverance and a spirit of healthy competition. He said that active participation in sports not only promotes physical fitness and mental well-being but also serves as a constructive avenue for nurturing talent and character. Reaffirming the government's commitment to promote sports as a means of developing a healthy, disciplined and progressive society, he said much impetus is being given to create world class infrastructure in the UT to train our talented youth to compete both at National and International level. He said sports has traveled beyond recreation and is now an honourable way of earning livelihood and respect. He quoted a number of names of the UT who made a mark at international level bringing repute not only for themselves but for the entire UT. The Speaker said that various innovative measures are being ensured to promote sports at the grassroots level by strengthening the infrastructure and creating opportunities for the aspiring athletes to excel at district, UT and national level. He urged the parents, teachers, community leaders and sports organizations to collectively encourage the young people to adopt sports as a way of life. Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug abuse and other anti-social activities, the Speaker called upon the youth to shun such harmful practices and instead devote their time and energy to sports and other positive pursuits. He said that engaging in sports keeps young people focused, builds confidence and inspires them to contribute meaningfully to society. Commending the organizers for providing a platform to local talent, the Speaker expressed hope that the tournament would foster the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie and healthy competition among the participants while motivating more youth to embrace sports and lead healthy, drug-free lives.
Srinagar to host fifth J&K Open with record Rs 1 crore prize purse
Srinagar, Aug 02: Srinagar is set to welcome India's leading professional golfers as the fifth edition of the J&K Open tees off at Royal Springs Golf Course from August 4 to 7. Organisers said this year's tournament will be the biggest so far, with the prize purse doubled to Rs 1 crore and participation from some of the country's top golfers. The tournament, jointly organised by Government of J&K, the J&K Tourism Department and the DP World Professional Golf Tour of India (DP World PGTI), also marks the beginning of the second leg of the 2026 PGTI season. Among the prominent names in the field are Saptak Talwar, Veer Ahlawat, Om Prakash Chouhan, Manu Gandas, defending champion Shaurya Bhattacharya and Angad Cheema. Local professionals Arindam Sudan, Faiyaz Ahmad Langoo, Adnan Mubarik Rah and Pawan Parihar will also compete before the home crowd. Ahead of the tournament, the DP World India Championship Lotus Trophy was unveiled in Srinagar in the presence of Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, DP World Country Manager for the Indian Subcontinent Hemant Kumar Ruia, DP World PGTI CEO Amandeep Johl, noted cricketer Aqib Nabi and Order of Merit leader Saptak Talwar. The unveiling marked the start of the second phase of the 2026 season and reflected J&K's growing place on India's golfing calendar. Speaking at the event, Wani said the J&K Open is more than a golf tournament. He said it provides an opportunity to showcase J&K's natural beauty, warm hospitality and world class sporting infrastructure to visitors from across the country and abroad. He said the event would strengthen J&K's image as a preferred destination for golf, leisure and adventure tourism while creating fresh opportunities for the local tourism and hospitality sectors. Ruia said DP World sees the tournament as a platform to promote J&K's potential in tourism, trade and investment. He said hosting world class golf in the region would help attract greater attention to its economic and sporting opportunities. Amandeep thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Government of J&K and the Tourism Department for extending support to the event. He said the J&K Open has become one of the most anticipated tournaments on the tour calendar and continues to play an important role in expanding professional golf in India by giving players the chance to compete on internationally recognised courses. A panel discussion titled Tee Side Talk was also held on the sidelines of the launch, where speakers discussed how partnerships between sports and industry can help promote tourism, trade and investment in J&K while strengthening its identity as a destination for international sporting events. The tournament is part of the J&K Tourism Department's broader effort to promote golf tourism in the Union Territory. Along with Royal Springs Golf Course, J&K is home to well-known golfing venues at Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Jammu. Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones II, the Royal Springs Golf Course overlooks the Dal Lake against the backdrop of the Zabarwan hills. Widely regarded as one of Asia's most beautiful golf courses, it is expected to provide a fitting stage for another high-quality edition of the J&K Open.
GDC Majalta concludes 15-day AI internship
Jammu, Aug 2: GDC Majalta successfully concluded a 15-day Summer Internship on Artificial Intelligence and Computer Applications held from July 16 to August 1, 2026. The programme aimed to equip students with practical knowledge of emerging technologies and digital skills. Led by Principal Prof. (Dr.) Alpana Vohra, the internship featured expert sessions by Dr. Ravia Gupta Assistant Professor, University of Jammu, Certified FactShala and AI Trainer (led by DataLeads, supported by Google) and Divya Vasu (Entrepreneur, IT Expert, Guest Faculty IIMC Jammu). They introduced students to AI fundamentals, digital tools, automation and ethical use of technology. Prof. Krishana Kumar Pangotra coordinated the programme, ensuring smooth execution. Students engaged in hands-on exercises, group discussions and demonstrations, gaining confidence in applying AI and computer applications to real-world scenarios. Participants praised the internship as informative and inspiring, noting improved digital competencies and motivation to explore AI further. Faculty members including Dr. Chander Mohan Sharma, Prof. Anuradha Chaudhary, Prof. Kamaljeet Chaudhary, Prof. Naresh Kumar, Prof. Dalip Kumar and Prof. (Dr.) Sameer Koul also contributed to its success. The initiative reflects GDC Majaltas commitment to fostering innovation, skill-oriented education and preparing students for the digital era. The college plans to organize more such programmes in the future.
CEO Doda, DYO attend Live Streaming of PMs address at HSS Boys Doda
Doda, Aug 2: Chief Education Officer (CEO) Doda, Bhushan Kumar Pathak along with District Youth Officer, Sandeep Sharma of MY Bharat Kendra Doda attended the live streaming of the Prime Ministers address under the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp programme at Govt. Higher Secondary School (HSS) Boys Doda. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members of HSS Boys Doda and officials of MY Bharat Kendra, who attentively followed the Prime Ministers address with great interest and patriotic spirit. The programme served as a platform to sensitize the youth about the vision of a drug-free India and encouraged their active role in nation-building. CEO Doda appreciated the active involvement of students and staff, highlighting the significance of such initiatives in promoting awareness, strengthening civic responsibility and inspiring youth towards positive societal contributions. The presence of senior officials and the coordinated participation of all stakeholders made the programme impactful and inspiring, reflecting a shared commitment towards the vision of a drug-free and developed India.
Maiden District Badminton Tournament concludes in Kathua
Kathua, Aug 2: The Grand Finale of the maiden District Badminton Tournament, organised by the District Administration Kathua under the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan concluded the other day at the Indoor Sports Stadium, Kathua. Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, presided over the finals and felicitated the winners and runners-up in various categories. The tournament witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 200 participants competing in Under-14, Under-19, Senior and Veteran categories for both boys and girls. A total of 211 matches were played, providing an excellent platform for shuttlers from across the district to showcase their talent. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner said the District Administration is consistently organising sporting events under the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan to provide quality exposure and competitive opportunities to budding sportspersons. He said the tournament was conceived to engage youth in constructive activities, encourage them to adopt sports as a way of life and make optimum use of the sports infrastructure created in the district. Highlighting the enthusiastic participation of girls, the Deputy Commissioner observed that they are now matching their male counterparts in every field, including sports. He said the tournament reflected the growing sporting culture in the district and reaffirmed the administration's commitment to promoting equal opportunities for all. Rajesh Sharma said Kathua continues to emerge as a hub of sporting talent and expressed confidence that the facilities at the Indoor Sports Stadium would be further upgraded. He said the necessary projections have already been submitted to the competent authorities. The Deputy Commissioner appreciated Chief Planning Officer Kathua Ranjeet Thakur, Assistant Director Fisheries Pawan Paul Sharma and their team for organising the maiden tournament with utmost dedication in a truly sporting atmosphere. He also acknowledged the support extended by Ex-MC Councillor Rahul Dev and the management of Kartar Public School, Kathua. The finals witnessed keenly contested matches across categories. Priyashi and Sunshine won the Under-19 Girls' Doubles title, Kulbhandu clinched the Men's Singles title, while Akshay and Nitish emerged winners in the Men's Doubles. Manyata won both the Women's Singles and Under-19 Girls' Singles titles. Arun and Sanjeev claimed the Veterans' Doubles title, while Rajat Sudan won the Veterans' Singles. Sunshine won the Under-14 Girls' Singles title, Saksham Singh emerged champion in the Under-14 Boys' Singles, Aaradhya and Arush won the Under-14 Boys' Doubles, Aniket Sharma clinched the Under-19 Boys' Singles title and Saksham and Daksh won the Under-19 Boys' Doubles championship. IAS Probationer Nidhi, District Information Officer Gurpreet Singh, officers of the district administration, besides a large number of players, parents and sports enthusiasts were present and witnessed the finals. The tournament concluded with the presentation of trophies, medals and certificates to the winners, runners-up, officials, support staff and volunteers.
MVD Rajouri intensifies enforcement against traffic violations
Rajouri, Aug 2: In a major crackdown on traffic violations, the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) Rajouri, acting on the directions of higher authorities, conducted an extensive enforcement drive across the district to ensure strict compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act and promote road safety. The enforcement drive was led by ARTO Rajouri, Ashiq Rafiq Malik and covered Rajouri town, Potha, Dhandkote and other adjoining routes. During the operation, the enforcement team checked 250 vehicles and initiated stringent action against traffic violators. During the day's drive, the team issued 18 challans, imposing fines amounting to 42,000. Additionally, three vehicles were seized for serious violations, while one driving licence was recommended for suspension. The overall enforcement campaign resulted in the issuance of 55 challans, with fines amounting to 1,11,600. The department also seized six vehicles for various violations and recommended the suspension of five driving licences for offences warranting stringent action under the Motor Vehicles Act. Speaking on the occasion, ARTO Rajouri, Ashiq Rafiq Malik, said that the department is committed to ensuring safer roads through sustained enforcement and strict action against violators. He emphasized that such drives will continue on a regular basis to deter traffic violations and foster responsible road usage. He appealed to all motorists to carry valid vehicle documents, adhere to traffic regulations, avoid overloading, overspeeding and other unsafe driving practices and extend full cooperation to enforcement teams in the interest of public safety. The enforcement team comprised MVI Lakhvinder Singh, AMVI Nitin and other officials of the Motor Vehicles Department, Rajouri.
MY Bharat organises awareness program on Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat at Pahalgam
Anantnag, Aug 2: To empower youth and build a drug-free nation, MY Bharat Anantnag, under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Govt. of India, organized a special youth awareness program on Sunday at Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports (JIM&WS), Pahalgam. Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR), Tariq Ahmad Malik, graced the occasion as Chief Guest while Adm Officer, JIM&WS, D. N. Raina, District Social Welfare Officer, Basharat Mehmood, Deputy Director My Bharat Anantnag, Khushal Gupta besides officials, youth, volunteers and other stakeholders were also present. The highlight of the event was the collective participation of local youth, officials, and community members in the virtual address delivered by the Prime Minister, regarding nationwide campaign: Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat. The participants listened to the address with keen interest and enthusiasm, reflecting their dedication for a healthy and drug free society. Addressing the gathering, Deputy Director My Bharat impressed upon the youth to act as dynamic agents of change by inspiring others toward creating a healthy, vibrant, and drug-free society, as envisioned in the national ambition of Viksit Bharat @2047. He advised the young minds to channel their energies into constructive, health-oriented, and goal-driven pursuits. Khushal Gupta sensitised the participants about the harmful physical, psychological and social consequences of substance abuse and urged them to become ambassadors of a drug-free society. He emphasised that a healthy, disciplined and responsible youth population is essential for achieving the national vision of a developed India. The venue reverberated with spirited slogans raised by the participating youth, including Gen Z Against Drug Addiction and Ek Sankalp, Ek Bharat Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat, showing determination of the younger generation to stand united against the menace of drug and substance abuse. Calling the initiative a pivotal step, representatives from MY Bharat highlighted the importance of such grassroots awareness drives, interactive workshops, and youth engagement programs in strengthening community resilience against substance abuse and encouraging youth participation in national development. The programme served as a platform to mobilise young citizens against substance abuse and reinforce the message that the journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047 must be powered by a healthy and drug-free generation. It concluded with a strong collective resolve to carry the message of Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat by enthusiastic and passionate youth to their communities and contribute towards building a drug-free and developed India.
CS lays foundation stone for Dharamshala restoration at Mata Kantiyani Bhagwati Asthapan, Kakran
Kulgam, Aug 2: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, on Sunday laid the foundation stone for revival and restoration of historic Dharamshala at Mata Kantiyani Bhagwati Asthapan, Kakran, in Kulgam district. The restoration project, being executed by PWD (R&B) Division, D.H. Pora, has been sanctioned at an estimated cost of 2.84 crore. The initiative is aimed at preserving the religious, cultural, and historical significance of the Dharamshala while providing improved facilities for the pilgrims and visitors. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of conserving the heritage sites and strengthening the public infrastructure. He said the project would not only enhance the experience of devotees but also promote religious tourism and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region. He stressed the need for timely completion of the work while ensuring the highest standards of quality and heritage conservation. During his visit, the Chief Secretary also interacted with the members of the Kashmiri Pandit community. Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, briefed the Chief Secretary on the proposed restoration works and highlighted the district administration's ongoing efforts to preserve heritage assets and improve civic amenities across the district. Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha, underlined the cultural and historical significance of the Dharamshala. The foundation stone laying ceremony was also attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary, ADDC, Altaf Ahmad Khan, ACD, Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B) Division D.H. Pora, other officers of the district administration, officials of the PWD (R&B) Division D.H. Pora, representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community and other concerned officials.
Kashmirs MMA fighter defeats unbeaten Bulgarian in 4 mins at BRAVE CF
Srinagar, Aug 02: Jammu and Kashmir's rising mixed martial arts fighter Owais Yaqoob produced the biggest victory of his professional career by defeating previously unbeaten Bulgarian fighter Delyan Georgiev via technical knockout in the opening round at BRAVE Combat Federation 107 held in Burgas, Bulgaria, on Saturday. The emphatic win further established the Pulwama fighter as one of India's brightest MMA prospects on the international stage. Competing in a 68-kilogram catchweight contest, the 27-year-old from Murran village in south Kashmir needed just four minutes to dismantle Georgiev inside the cage. The referee stopped the contest after Owais unleashed a dominant display from the opening exchange, leaving the Bulgarian with no chance to recover. The victory improved Owais' professional record to 6 wins and 1 loss, while Georgiev suffered the first defeat of his career, dropping to 3 wins and 1 loss. The result came as a surprise to many followers of the sport. According to Tapology, nearly 73 percent of fans had backed Georgiev to emerge victorious. Owais, however, displayed remarkable confidence, discipline and technical skill to overpower his opponent from the very beginning. Speaking after the bout, Owais dedicated the memorable victory to the people of India and Jammu and Kashmir. This victory means everything to me. I stepped into the cage carrying the hopes of my family, my people in Jammu and Kashmir and the entire country. Defeating an unbeaten world champion is a dream achievement, but this is only the beginning. I will continue to work harder and aim for even greater success while proudly representing India on the global stage, he said. The triumph also highlighted Owais' steady rise in international mixed martial arts. He entered the contest riding a five fight winning streak after being named BRAVE CF Breakout Fighter of the Year 2025. His latest success has now extended that streak to six consecutive victories. The contest attracted global attention because Georgiev represented Team Topuria, while Owais trains under the renowned Team Khabib at the American Kickboxing Academy, one of the world's leading MMA training centres. Known for his disciplined approach and consistent performances in domestic and international competitions, Owais has steadily emerged as one of India's most promising fighters. His latest victory against an unbeaten opponent is expected to strengthen his position within BRAVE Combat Federation and open doors to bigger opportunities on the global circuit. Sports enthusiasts across J&K and the country hailed the victory, describing it as another proud moment for Indian mixed martial arts. Owais' achievement also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes from Kashmir, proving that dedication and perseverance can help local talent compete successfully on the world's biggest sporting platforms.
ICLS Officer Trainees arrive in Sgr on Bharat Darshan tour
Srinagar, Aug 02: Seven Officer Trainees of the Indian Corporate Law Service (ICLS), recruited through the UPSC All India Civil Services Examination 2023, have reached Srinagar as part of their domestic study tour, also known as Bharat Darshan. The trainees are visiting the Union Territory to gain exposure to the regulatory and enforcement work of the office of the Registrar of Companies (ROC J&K) and to meet dignitaries and Central Government officials posted in the region. Thetour of the traineesis restricted to three days, and they shall depart for the UT of Ladakh on August 5, 2026, in the forenoon. Profile of Officer Trainees: - Dr Issac Jose Thrissur, Kerala. Holds an MBBS degree from Kerala University; served as a Resident in Cardiology for five years prior to joining ICLS. - Parth Noida, Uttar Pradesh.HoldsB.A. (Hons.) in Political Science from Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi,andLL.B. from MMH College, Ghaziabad; worked as a Lawyer before joining the Service. - Dethe Sagar Shamrao Jalgaon, Maharashtra.HoldsB.Sc. in Zoology from Fergusson College, Pune; joined ICLS without prior professional experience. - Himanshu Kumar Muzaffarpur, Bihar.HoldsB.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Delhi; worked as a Data Scientist for two years before joining. - Mitul Dabhi Surat, Gujarat. Holds an MBBS degree from Sumandeep Vidyapeeth, Vadodara; worked as a doctor prior to joining the Service. - Apoorva Jagbharia Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.HoldsB.A. (Hons.) in Political Science from Indraprastha College, University of Delhi, and a postgraduate degree in Political Science and International Relations from JNU; joined ICLS without prior professional experience. - Navneet Mishra Gonda, Uttar Pradesh.HoldsB.Tech. in Chemistry from IIT Bombay; worked as a Biomedical Scientist for three years before joining. The trainees come from different backgrounds and hail from various states across the country.
Omar govt approves water supply scheme for Pulwama
Srinagar, Aug 02: Continuing its efforts to strengthen essential public infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led government has accorded administrative approval to anRs 18.96 crore Water Supply Scheme for Pulwama town. The projectis aimed at augmentingand modernising the town's water-supply infrastructure to ensure a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable supply of safe drinking waterto theresidents. The scheme is expected to address the growing demand for potable water while enhancing the overall quality and dependability of water services in the town. The initiative reflects the government's continued commitment to upgrading essential civic infrastructure and improving the quality of life for people by ensuring access to basic amenities. Once completed, the project will significantly strengthen the drinking water distribution network in Pulwama, benefitting households through improved water availability and service delivery.
JKSSB announces exam schedule for SI, Constable posts
Srinagar, Aug 02: The Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) has announced the examination schedule for several posts in the Home Department, including Sub-Inspector and Constable, with computer-based written examinations set to commence from November 29, 2026. According to a notification issued by the JKSSB, the examinations will be conducted in online Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode for various posts advertised under different recruitment notifications. The written examination for the Sub-Inspector post, advertised under Notification No. 02 of 2024 (Item No. 07), will be held on November 29. The examination for Constable (Executive) posts, advertised under Notification No. 12 of 2025 (Item Nos. 273 and 274), has been scheduled for December 13, while the test for Constable (Armed/IRP/SDRF) posts under Notification No. 14 of 2025 (Item Nos. 323 and 324) will be conducted on December 20. The Board has also fixed December 23 for the examination of Sub-Inspector (Telecommunication), advertised under Notification No. 11 of 2025 (Item No. 272). Similarly, the examinations for Constable (Telecommunication) and Constable (Photographer), both notified under Notification No. 15 of 2025, will be held on December 27 and December 30, respectively. JKSSB said admit cards for all examinations will be made available seven days prior to the respective examination dates. Candidates have been advised to regularly visit the Board's official website for updates, admit card downloads, and other important instructions related to the recruitment process.
Srinagar, Aug 02: Jammu and Kashmir's power distribution utilities have registered a significant reduction in Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses over the past few financial years under the Centre's Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). However, despite the reduction, boththe utilities, including Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), remained short of their Financial Year-25 loss reduction targets. As per the data released by the Government of India, JPDCL reduced its AT&C losses from 37.64% in FY23 to 32.47% in FY24 and further to 27.45% in FY25. However,the target of 27% for FY26 has been set under the scheme. Similarly, KPDCL brought down its AT&C losses from 59.59% in FY23 to 51.98% in FY24 and 33.54% in FY25. Despite the sharp improvement, the utility remained below the desired performance level against the FY25 target of44%, whilethe FY26 target has been fixed at 34%. As per the details, Minister ofState, Power Shripad Naik has said that the transmission losses in the country are around 3-4% on an annual basis.Distribution losses in the distribution network, along with the losses on account of shortfall in collection of revenue, are together reported as Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses of the distribution utilities. Naikhas recently informed Lok Sabha that Government of India (GoI) launched the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) in July 2021 with the objective of improving the quality of powerthrough a financially sustainable and operationally efficient distribution sector. The scheme has an outlay of Rs 3,03,758 croreandestimated Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) from the Central Government of Rs 97,631 crore. Under the scheme, he stated,financial assistance is being provided to the distribution utilitiesfor loss reduction infrastructure and smart metering works. Projects worth Rs 1.53 lakh crore for loss reduction infrastructure and Rs 1.31 lakh crore for smart metering works have been sanctioned under the scheme. Release of funds under the scheme is linked with performance of the distribution utilities against operational and financial parameters including the AT&C losses. With concerted efforts of the Central and State Governments and as a result of various reform measures undertaken, there has been a reduction in overall transmission and distribution losses. AT&C losses across the country have reduced from 21.91% in FY21 to 15.04% in FY25. These collective efforts have also resulted in distribution utilities, on an aggregate basis, achieving a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs 2,701 crore in FY25 for the first time since the coming into force of the Electricity Act, 2003.
Amarnath Yatras green mission hits new high, waste nears 300 MT
Srinagar, Aug 02: With the 57-day Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra entering its final phase, the ongoing pilgrimage has emerged as a shining example of sustainable wastemanagement, with nearly 300 metric tonnes (MT) of solid wastecollected and scientifically processed till July 30, underscoring the success of the government's green initiatives in the fragile Himalayan region. The annual pilgrimage, which commenced on July 3 and will continue for 57 days, has witnessed an unprecedented response from devotees. Nearly 4.5 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the holy cave shrine through the Baltal and Pahalgam routes till July 30, making it one of the highest pilgrim footfalls in recent years. Despite the record rush, sanitation authorities have maintained an impressive cleanliness record, ensuringthatthe pilgrimage remains both spiritually enriching and environmentally responsible. Official figures accessed by the RisingKashmir,reveal that 291.72 MT of solid waste had been collected and scientifically processed till July 30, making this year's Yatra one of the cleanest and most environmentally managed editions in recent years. According to the data, 191.29 MT of waste has been collected along the Baltal axis and 100.43 MT on the Pahalgam route. On July 30 alone, sanitation workers collected 7.7 MT of waste from Baltal and 1.3 MT from Pahalgam, ensuring prompt collection and scientific processing despite the heavy daily pilgrim rush. The figures also indicate overwhelming public appreciation for the sanitation arrangements. A total of 34,266 feedback responses have been received through the Yatra mobile application, website and digital kiosks. More than 98 per cent of pilgrims rated toilet facilities and overall cleanliness positively on both pilgrimage routes. Officials said the limited complaints received were mainly related to temporary water supply and electricity issues at a few toilet locations. The Department's Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign has also recorded encouraging public participation. As many as 11,048 pilgrims have taken the environmental pledge, while 7,200 Responsible Yatri Certificates have been issued to visitors committing themselves to protecting the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. To minimise plastic pollution, the Department of Rural Sanitation has distributed 1,10,200 reusable bags among pilgrims. The Bartan Bank initiative has issued 200 reusable utensil kits, of which 94 have been returned, while the Sewa Caf initiative has distributed another 200 reusable bags. These initiativesare aimed at discouraging single-use plastics and promotingresponsible pilgrimage practices. A unique feature of the sanitation drive has been the large-scale use of horses to transport waste from inaccessible mountainous stretches. Around 1,000 horses operating on the Baltal axis have brought down nearly 46 MT of waste, while 590 horses on the Pahalgam route have transported another 34 MT, taking the total waste evacuated through equine logistics to approximately 80 MT. Dr Sameer Sharma, CEO of Swaaha, the startup entrusted with scientific collection and processing of both solid and liquid waste during the Amarnath Yatra, said the figures reflect the scale of the operation and the success of the collaborative effort. The figures speak for themselves. Till July 30, we have scientifically collected and processed nearly 300 metric tonnes of solid waste generated during the Yatra despite a record footfall of nearly 4.5 lakh pilgrims. Our teams are working round the clock to ensure that no waste is left unattended and that the fragile Himalayan ecosystem remains protected, Dr Sharma told Rising Kashmir. He said Swaaha's integrated waste management model covers both solid and liquid waste, ensuring scientific collection, transportation, segregation, processing and environmentally safe disposal throughout the pilgrimage. This is not just about waste collection; it is about creating a sustainable pilgrimage model. Along with managing solid waste, we are also treating liquid waste through scientific systems. The overwhelming public response, with over 98 per cent positive feedback on cleanliness, reflects the coordinated efforts of the Department of Rural Sanitation, sanitation workers, volunteers, pony operators and our field teams, he said. Dr Sharma said initiatives such as the Responsible Yatri campaign, distribution of reusable bags, the Bartan Bank and continuous awareness programmes have significantly reduced plastic litter and encouraged pilgrims to become active partners in conserving the Himalayan environment. Officials said the coordinated efforts of the Department of Rural Sanitation, Swaaha, sanitation workers, volunteers, pony operators and other stakeholders have transformed this year's Amarnath Yatra into a national model of eco-friendly pilgrimage management, demonstrating that even a record influx of pilgrims can be managed while preserving the pristine Himalayan ecosystem.
PM Modis leadership empowered Pahari community: LG Sinha
Srinagar, Aug 02: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday highlighted the historic transformation brought about under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership that empowered the Pahari community and other marginalised groups. He launched Dr A.H. Shah's book Sharda to Sansad, describing it as a meaningful dialogue between heritage and hope, between the wisdom of the past and the democratic aspirations of the present. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor said, Books related to history, civilisation, and culture often serve as bridges between generations. Through 'Sharda to Sansad', Dr Shah has built such a bridge, reminding us that history and culture never truly pass away. They remain alive within us. Drawing a powerful parallel between Sharda Peeth, the ancient seat of learning, and Parliament, the symbol of collective consciousness in modern India, the LG said, If Sharda nurtured the wisdom of society, Parliament has worked to fulfil the aspirations of the nation. He highlighted the historic transformationbrought about under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi afterthe abrogation of Article 370, which connected Jammu and Kashmir's aspirations with those of the nation. The empowerment of the Pahari community, along with other marginalised groups, marked a turning point in India's democratic journey, he said, adding that future generations will remember this transformation well. Sinha praised the Pahari community for preserving its language, folklore, folk music, and traditions with dignity andpatience, notingthat their oral literature and rich traditions are powerful expressions of courage, harmony, and human values. The journey from Sharda to Sansad is not merely the journey of a community, but it is the journey of India itself. It is the journey of a civilisation that carried its ancient knowledge tradition into the institutions of democracy while keeping its faith in both equally intact, he said. Urging scholars, teachers, artists, and citizens to invest in preserving India's civilisational heritage, the Lieutenant Governor said, There are villages whose stories remain unwritten, dialects whose grammar is yet to be studied, and folk songs that have not been recorded. Each of these efforts will enrich our national archive. Responding to issues raised by the Chairman of J&K Pahari Welfare Society, the Lieutenant Governor stated that even after the implementation of the law, certain elements are deliberately causing trouble, and assured that a robust mechanism will be put in place to relieve people from this distress. The book launch ceremony was attended by J&K Pahari Welfare Society Chairman Zafar Iqbal Manhas, author Dr A.H. Shah, Khush Dev Maini, Dr Jahangir Danish, prominent literary personalities, members of various Pahari organisations, MLA Uri Dr Sajjad Shafi, former DDC Chairperson Baramulla Safina Baig, DIG CKR Rajiv Pandey, SSP Srinagar Dr G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, JKAACL Secretary Harvinder Kour, and senior officials.
Indias strength lies in 65% youth below 35: LG Sinha
Srinagar, Aug 02: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said India's greatest strength lies in its young population, with nearly 65% below the age of 35. He attended the launch of the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan at a UT-Level function organised by the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports and SKUAST-Kashmir, virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a nationwide resolve to secure India's future by empowering its youth and eliminating the menace of drugs. Addressing the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor said, The Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan seeks to energize this demographic, guiding them toward healthy lifestyles and active participation in development. Our youth must emerge like a cloud of energy and spread across the horizon of development. The LG highlighted significant achievements of the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaign: around 2,300 FIRs registered, 2,600 people arrested, 1,500 kilograms of narcotics seized, and more than 331 properties worth around Rs 200 crore belonging to narco-terrorists and drug smugglers attached. Additionally, over 370 driving licenses and 750 vehicle registrations have been cancelled, with recommendations made to cancel nearly 3,000 Aadhaar cards. He announced that the government will soon initiate the Rehabilitation and Socio-Economic Reintegration Scheme for Drug Abuse Victims, 2026, with a pilot project beginning in two most-affected districtsone from Kashmir and one from Jammu division. Designed as a three-year rehabilitation cycle, the scheme will focus on medical treatment, counselling, education, skill development, employment, reintegration, and long-term monitoring. I see youth affected by drugs as victims and we need to ensure their dignity, livelihood, and a meaningful future, the LG said. Sinha urged families, teachers, and youth organizations to play a proactive role in guiding youth, and exhorted volunteers of MY Bharat, Nehru Yuva Kendras, and youth clubs to take the campaign's message to every village, school, college, and community. A healthy youth, a strong family, and an aware public will become the identity of Viksit Bharat, he said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor administered the Nasha Mukt Yuva Pledge to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. The event was attended by SKUAST Kashmir Vice Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Commissioner Secretary Youth Services and Sports Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, MY Bharat J&K Director Nitin Hangloo, senior officials, members of Youth Clubs, Nehru Yuva Kendras, prominent citizens, and a large number of youth.
Sharda to Sansad : Pahari history comes alive in new book: Shafi
Srinagar, Aug 2: MLA Uri Dr Sajjad Shafi on Sunday described the book Sharda to Sansad as a significant contribution to documenting the history, culture and long struggle of the Pahari community. He said the book provides a comprehensive account of the Pahari language, tracing its origins, geographical spread and historical evolution. According to him, it also highlights the communitys ethnicity, cultural identity and rich heritage. The author has done an excellent job by documenting the history of the Pahari community and bringing together several important aspects of its cultural and social journey, Shafi said, speaking to the media on the sidelines of the event. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha unveiled Sharda to Sansad, a book authored by Dr Abdul Hafeez Shah, during a function held at Tagore Hall in Srinagar. MLA said the book also chronicles the decades-long struggle for the grant of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Pahari community, noting that the movement dates back to 1971. He said the publication acknowledges the contributions of several leaders and activists who consistently worked for securing ST status and preserving the Pahari language and culture. Among those mentioned in the book are Nazeer Masoodi, Mohammad Shafi Uri, Mirza Rasheed and several others. Shafi said these leaders raised the concerns of the Pahari community in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly as well as in Parliament, ensuring that the communitys issues remained in the public and political discourse. He added that the book also reflects on the socio-economic challenges faced by the Pahari community and highlights the efforts made over the years to secure greater recognition, representation and empowerment for the community.
Cloudbursts trigger flash floods in Ganderbal, Kargil
Ganderbal/Kargil, Aug 2: Heavy rainfall accompanied by cloudbursts triggered flash flood situations in parts of central Kashmir's Ganderbal district and Ladakh's Kargil district on Sunday. While significant damage was reported in Ganderbal's Safapora area, officials said no damage or loss of life was reported from the Tumail area of Kargil. In Ganderbal's Safapora, a cloudburst triggered a sudden surge of water that overflowed local drains and streams, inundating several residential localities within minutes. Floodwaters entered houses, shops, orchards and low-lying areas, damaging household belongings, electronic appliances, furniture, food stocks and merchandise. Roads and interior lanes were submerged under water, mud and debris, disrupting normal life and affecting vehicular movement. Residents said many families, with the help of neighbours, spent hours draining water from their homes and shops while trying to salvage their belongings. Fruit orchards and agricultural fields also remained inundated, raising fears of damage to standing crops and this season's harvest. Locals urged the district administration to immediately assess the losses, provide compensation to affected families, deploy dewatering pumps and sanitation teams, and restore damaged infrastructure. They also demanded long-term flood mitigation measures, including strengthening drainage channels and constructing flood-control structures. Meanwhile, a cloudburst was also reported from the Tumail area of Kargil district. However, officials confirmed that no damage to property or infrastructure and no loss of life was reported from the area. The incident remained limited, and the situation was reported to be under control. Meanwhile, the district administration and Jammu & Kashmir Police remained on alert in the affected areas, closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with field officials to ensure timely response. Authorities said the situation was under watch.
Court drops domestic violence case against five in-laws
Srinagar: In a significant ruling safeguarding individuals from being unnecessarily subjected to trial, the Court of the Sub-Judge, Srinagar Junaid Imtiyaz Mir has dropped the domestic violence proceedings against five relatives of the husband after finding that the complaint contained only vague and omnibus allegations against them. The Court held that the complaint failed to attribute any specific role or act of domestic violence to Respondent Nos. 4 to 8 and that their mere relationship with the husband could not justify their continued prosecution. Consequently, the Court dropped the proceedings against them and deleted their names from the array of respondents and vacated all interim directions against them. Appearing for the Respondents, Adv. Mustahsun Mattu assited by Adv. Qazi Athar argued that vague and generalized allegations, particularly where no domestic relationship exists with the aggrieved person, cannot be made the basis for compelling the relatives of the husband to face trial. They contended that permitting such proceedings to continue would amount to an abuse of the process of law. Accepting the contention in so far as Respondent Nos. 4 to 8 were concerned, the Court held that no prima facie case was made out against them and accordingly terminated the proceedings against the said respondents. This marks the second such success for the legal team within a week. Earlier, the Court of the City Magistrate, Srinagar, had also dropped the domestic violence proceedings against the relatives of a husband in another case, where they too were represented by same legal team reinforcing the principle that family members cannot be compelled to face trial in the absence of domestic relationship, specific and substantiated allegations.
Govt ramps up golf tourism push
Srinagar, Aug 2: J&K is stepping up efforts to establish itself as a leading golf tourism destination by promoting its internationally acclaimed golf courses and hosting more national and international tournaments, Director Tourism Syed Qamar Sajad said on Sunday. Speaking on the sidelines of the J&K Open at the Royal Springs Golf Course, Sajad said the Tourism Department has made golf promotion a priority over the past six months. He said this is the third major golf event organised during the period, following the first junior golf tournament in Pahalgam and a golf carnival at the Royal Springs Golf Course. He said J&K possesses some of the finest golf courses in the country, including the Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar, the Pahalgam Golf Course and the historic Gulmarg Golf Course, which is among the oldest in the Indian subcontinent. These courses, he said, offer immense potential to attract golfers and tourists from across India and abroad. Sajad said golf tourism is emerging as a high value segment globally and can make a significant contribution to the tourism economy of J&K. He said the department wants the world to know that the Union Territory has quality golf infrastructure and all the facilities required to host tournaments of international standards. He said the government does not want golf to remain limited to a small section of society. More tournaments will encourage greater public participation and inspire young players to take up the sport. He added that the Royal Springs Golf Course will also begin a membership drive to attract more aspiring golfers. The Director Tourism said special emphasis is being placed on junior golfers, describing it as a long term investment in the future of the sport. He said increased participation at the grassroots level will improve the standard of golf in J&K and help local players compete successfully at national and international events. Sajad said the department will continue to organise more golf events in the coming years with the twin objective of promoting tourism and developing golf as a major sporting activity in J&K.
Kashmiri IFS officer wins five IGNFA awards
Srinagar, Aug 2: Srinagar-born Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Sana Fayaz of the AGMUT cadre has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning five prestigious awards at the convocation ceremony of the 2024 IFS batch held at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA), Dehradun, on Saturday. She is understood to be the first woman from the Kashmir valley to join the Indian Forest Service as a direct recruit through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination. The Indian Forest Service (IFS) is one of Indias three All India Services, alongside the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS). In recognition of her outstanding academic performance, field competence, and professional excellence during training, Sana was conferred the Dr. B.N. Ganguly Award for Academic Excellence, the Senior Forester Prize for Best Field Forester, the D.C. Agarwal Prize for Land Management and Soil Conservation, the Sulochana Naidu Memorial Prize, and the K.P. Sagreya Shreshtha Vanik Puraskar. The awards were presented by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav during the convocation ceremony. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Sana expressed hope that her achievement would encourage more young people from Jammu and Kashmir, particularly women, to consider a career in the Indian Forest Service. I hope more women from Jammu and Kashmir choose the Indian Forest Service as a career. I have found that many young people are still unaware of the opportunities the IFS offers, especially for those interested in forest and wildlife conservation, climate change, disaster management, pollution, and other environmental challenges, she said. A resident of the Peer Bagh area of Srinagar, Sana secured the 12th All India Rank (AIR) in the Indian Forest Service Examination. Earlier, she had qualified the UPSC Civil Services Examination, 2021, and joined the Indian Trade Service (ITS) as an Assistant Director General of Foreign Trade. She also qualified the JKAS-2021 examination, securing the fourth rank in Jammu and Kashmir. Driven by her passion for environmental conservation and natural resource management, she ultimately chose to join the Indian Forest Service. Addressing the convocation, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav congratulated the probationers on successfully completing their training and said they were embarking on a career devoted to protecting Indias forests, wildlife, and natural heritage. He expressed confidence that the officers graduating in 2026 would play a pivotal role in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Govt approves sewerage project for Ahmed Nagar, Pandach
Srinagar, Aug 2: In a significant step towards strengthening urban infrastructure and improving public sanitation, the Government of Jammu & Kashmir has approved a 19.61 crore project for the development of a comprehensive sewerage network covering Ahmed Nagar, Pandach, Illahi Bagh, the right side of 90 Feet Road, Rangpora Zakura and Ghulab Bagh in Srinagar. The project aims to establish a modern sewerage system in these localities, providing residents with improved sanitation facilities and ensuring the scientific collection and management of wastewater. Once completed, the initiative is expected to enhance public health, improve environmental hygiene and contribute to a cleaner urban landscape. The new sewerage network will facilitate efficient wastewater disposal, reduce the risk of water contamination and support sustainable urban development in these rapidly growing residential areas.
Jammu statehood movement plans Aug 4 protest
Jammu, Aug 2: The Jammu State Movement on Saturday announced a peaceful demonstration on August 4 at the Maharaja Hari Singh Statue near Tawi Bridge, Jammu, to press for separate statehood for the Jammu region and highlight what it described as long-standing regional imbalance and discrimination. The decision was taken at a meeting of the organisation, where members discussed the future course of the movement and issues concerning the Jammu region. The organisers said the protest aims to draw the Centre's attention to the aspirations, development needs and concerns of the people of Jammu, while urging it to positively consider the demand for separate statehood. Speakers at the meeting said the people of Jammu have consistently contributed to national unity and integrity since Independence and have always supported democratic values and national interests. They further said that following the abrogation of Article 370, people in the region had expected greater regional balance and equal opportunities in development, governance and political representation. However, they alleged that many of Jammu's aspirations remain unfulfilled. The meeting also noted growing support for the movement from districts including Samba, Kathua, Udhampur, Reasi, Poonch, Rajouri, Doda and Ramban. The organisers decided to strengthen the movement across these districts and expand public outreach programmes in the coming months. The participants reiterated that the movement would continue through peaceful, democratic and constitutional means, with the objective of raising issues related to Jammu's rights, balanced development and political aspirations. Representatives of several organisations, including the Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, Movement Kalki, Hindu Vahini Sangathan, Shashwat Hindu Sangathan, Yuva Rajput Sabha, All India Rajput Ekta Manch, Sainik Samaj Party and Panther Party, attended the meeting and pledged support for the August 4 demonstration. The Jammu State Movement also appealed to people across the Jammu division, including youth, women, farmers, traders, employees, students and civil society members, to participate in the protest.
Khatana hails India's clean energy progress
Srinagar, Aug 2: BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ghulam Ali Khatana on Sunday hailed India's progress in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure, saying the country has emerged as a global leader in green growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a statement, Khatana said the inauguration of India's first indigenously built hydrogen-powered train marked a major milestone in the country's transition towards clean mobility and its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. He also highlighted the rapid electrification of the Indian Railways, stating that 99.6 per cent of the Broad Gauge network has now been electrified, making it the world's second-most electrified large rail network. Nearly 48,072 route kilometres have been electrified over the past 12 years, he said. Khatana further welcomed the addition of 29 GW of solar and wind energy capacity during the first half of 2026, taking India's total renewable energy capacity to nearly 288 GW. He said the expansion of rooftop solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana had accelerated the country's clean energy transition while benefiting millions of households. Referring to India's global standing, the BJP leader said the United Nations had recognised the country as a solar superpower, with solar capacity increasing more than fifty-fold since 2014. He added that renewable energy now accounts for nearly half of India's installed power generation capacity, reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports and strengthening energy security.
GenZ Against Addiction : KU joins nationwide anti-drug campaign
Srinagar, Aug 2: The University of Kashmir on Saturday joined the nationwide GenZ Against Addiction, Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, with students, faculty members and officers taking a pledge against drug abuse at a programme held at Gandhi Bhawan. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, who presided over the event, said educational institutions have a vital role in creating awareness about substance abuse and empowering young people to make responsible choices. She lauded the Department of Students' Welfare for extending awareness programmes beyond the university campus through outreach initiatives in colleges and communities. Prof. Khan expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for a drug-free India would inspire youth to take collective responsibility in combating addiction. She urged students to spread the message of a healthy, drug-free lifestyle among their families, friends and communities. Dean Students' Welfare Prof. Seema Singh, in her welcome address, said educational institutions must play a leading role in promoting healthy lifestyles and raising awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse. During the programme, participants took the Nasha Mukt Bharat Pledge, administered by the Vice-Chancellor, reaffirming their commitment to stay away from intoxicants and create awareness about substance abuse. The participants also joined the Prime Minister's live virtual address, in which he described the anti-drug campaign as a people's movement and called upon youth to lead the fight against addiction with the support of families, educational institutions and society. The programme was coordinated by Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal and attended by senior university officials, faculty members, NSS volunteers and students from various departments. According to the university, the nationwide campaign was organised at more than 10,000 locations across the country, with over one crore youth participating by taking the anti-drug pledge through the MY Bharat platform.
Restore statehood, end dual power structure: Dr. Farooq
Srinagar, Aug 2: Srinagar, Aug 2: National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Sunday questioned the continuation of what he termed a dual power structure in Jammu and Kashmir, saying it was inconsistent with the principles of democracy and federalism despite the presence of an elected government. Speaking to reporters during a visit to Duratyar in Bijbehara, Dr. Farooq said the assurances made by the Union Government following the August 5, 2019 decisions remained unfulfilled and that the people of Jammu and Kashmir continued to be denied the democratic rights enjoyed by other states. The people of J&K were promised that the events of August 5, 2019 would place the region on par with the rest of the country. If that is the case, why does a dual power structure continue despite a duly elected government? he asked. The NC president also referred to the recent incidents of violence in Bijbehara and Kulgam, saying they contradicted promises that the constitutional changes of 2019 would usher in lasting peace and normalcy. He said repeated assurances by the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister regarding the restoration of statehood and democratic rights must now be translated into action. Jammu and Kashmir, with its unique social, cultural and geographical diversity, can realise its full potential only under a fully empowered elected government. The National Conference will continue its peaceful, constitutional and democratic struggle until the people's legitimate rights are fully restored, he said. Earlier, Dr. Farooq visited Duratyar, Bijbehara, to offer condolences to the family of former National Conference Block President Muhammad Ismail Wani, who passed away after remaining bedridden for nearly eight years following injuries sustained in a militant attack in 2019. Accompanied by senior party leaders and legislators, Dr. Farooq offered prayers for the departed soul and expressed sympathies with the bereaved family.
Curbing food adulteration is a public priority
The rising burden of diseases in our society is no longer a matter for medical journals or official seminars alone; it has become a grim reality visible in homes, hospitals and communities across the region. From lifestyle disorders to gastrointestinal infections, from chronic ailments to sudden outbreaks of preventable illnesses, the public health challenge is growing by the day. One of the most disturbing drivers of this crisis is the alarming spread of food adulteration, a menace that silently poisons consumers and weakens the health of an already vulnerable population. Food is meant to nourish, but when it is contaminated, diluted or chemically altered for profit, it turns into a weapon of slow harm. Spurious milk, fake spices, substandard edible oils, chemically ripened fruits and unhygienic street food are no longer isolated complaints; they are part of a larger pattern of negligence and greed. The tragedy is that most consumers have little means to detect what they are eating until the damage is done. The consequences often appear later in the form of digestive disorders, liver problems, kidney stress, allergies and even long-term diseases that place an enormous burden on families and the healthcare system. What makes the situation worse is the weak enforcement of food safety laws and the lack of sustained public awareness. Occasional raids and sample checks cannot substitute for a robust, continuous monitoring system. Authorities must move beyond symbolic action and ensure strict inspections, transparent testing and exemplary punishment for those found guilty of adulteration. At the same time, there is a need for stronger public education so that consumers are informed, alert and able to demand accountability. The fight against food adulteration is not merely about protecting quality; it is about defending public health, restoring trust and preventing disease before it begins. If this menace is allowed to grow unchecked, the rising burden of illness will only deepen. The cost will be measured not just in medical bills, but in lost well-being, reduced productivity and lives diminished by avoidable suffering. The time to act is now.
Bricks, Steel and Broken Budgets
In Kashmir, building a home has never been a simple matter of brick and mortar. It has always carried the weight of aspiration, security, and social standing. A house here is not just a structure; it is a statement of permanence in a place where uncertainty often shadows daily life. But today, that dream is being pushed further out of reach as the cost of essential building materials continues to rise sharply across the Valley. Cement, steel, sand, bricks, and timber have all become dearer, and for ordinary families trying to construct a modest home, the burden is becoming unbearable. What once was a calculated expense has now turned into a moving target. By the time a family arranges money for one stage of construction, the price of the next material has already climbed. This constant escalation is not only frustrating for households; it is unsettling the entire construction sector, from masons and labourers to small contractors and transporters. The crisis is especially hard on the middle and lower-middle classes, who depend on savings, loans, or remittances to build homes piece by piece. In Kashmir, many families do not build houses at once; they construct them gradually, often over years. Rising prices make this slow, phased process far more difficult. A wall left unfinished for months now represents not just delay, but financial defeat. For young couples hoping to establish a household, and for families seeking to replace unsafe or damaged structures, the dream of homeownership is becoming increasingly remote. There is also a wider economic angle that cannot be ignored. The construction sector is one of the important engines of local employment. When costs rise steeply, private construction slows down, and the ripple effect is felt by workers who depend on daily wages. This means the price surge is not merely a household problem; it is an employment problem, a livelihood problem, and ultimately a development problem. The government cannot remain a passive observer while basic construction inputs become unaffordable. There is an urgent need to examine why prices are increasing so sharply and whether cartels, transport bottlenecks, supply disruptions, or weak market monitoring are adding to the burden. In a small and fragile economy like Kashmirs, unchecked price hikes in essential goods quickly become social problems. Stronger regulation, transparent market checks, and better facilitation of supply chains are necessary if the market is to be brought under control. At the same time, the public works and housing sectors must look at long-term solutions, including the promotion of locally available and cost-effective materials where possible. If the Valley is to move toward more inclusive growth, then affordable housing must remain part of the conversation. A society cannot claim progress when building a basic shelter becomes a luxury. Bringing building material prices under control is not a technical issue alone; it is an act of economic justice.
Dreams of Youth, Strength of Their Parents
A steady and meaningful change is taking place in Kashmir. It can be seen in students who continue their studies with focus, in young people who remain committed to their goals, and in families who stand beside them with care and responsibility. This change may not always be visible, but it is real and steadily growing. At the centre of this change is a simple truth: the future of Kashmir depends on its youth. At the same time, it is equally shaped by the guidance, values and sacrifices of parents who support them at every step. Todays youth in Kashmir are not only focused on their education, but also thinking about what they want to become and how they can move forward with purpose. This growing awareness is an important sign of maturity and development. Every young person carries a dream. For some, it is to pursue a respected profession. For others, it is to build something meaningful. For many, it is to create a life of dignity, stability and balance. These dreams give direction, but they need effort and guidance to grow. Behind every student working hard, there is a parent who has adjusted their own life to support them. They manage responsibilities, make sacrifices and continue to stand by their children with patience and belief. Their role may not always be visible, but it is deeply valued and deserves respect. In different parts of the region, young people are making sincere efforts to improve themselves. They are learning new skills, focusing on their studies and making use of available opportunities. Many are using digital platforms to learn and grow step by step, showing a clear willingness to move forward. At the same time, students from different areas of Kashmir are progressing in education and professional paths. Their achievements show that when effort is steady and support is strong, progress follows. These examples reflect the strength and potential of the regions youth. Youth development is not limited to education alone. It is about becoming stronger as a person. It means learning how to think clearly, speak with confidence and face challenges with patience. It is about building both skill and character. Communication is an important part of this growth. When young people learn to express their thoughts clearly, they gain confidence and connect better with others. Reading, speaking and sharing ideas can help them grow. Exposure also matters. When students try new things, learn different skills and explore their interests, they begin to understand what they are capable of. These opportunities are increasing, and technology is helping make them more accessible. The internet has opened many doors. Students can now learn from anywhere, explore new subjects and build skills that were once difficult to access. This has made growth more possible, even from within their own surroundings. Opportunities are changing. Today, young people can learn, grow and move forward from wherever they are. This gives them the chance to aim higher, build their future and turn their dreams into reality. However, opportunities must be supported by direction. Parents, teachers and mentors play an important role in helping young people make informed and thoughtful choices. Their encouragement helps build confidence and clarity. At the same time, young people must remain patient and focused. Growth takes time. It needs patience, discipline and the willingness to keep learning. Success does not come overnight, but it becomes possible through steady effort. It is also important to take care of well-being. Growth is not only about achievement. It is about staying balanced, positive and calm. A strong and steady mind helps young people move forward even when things are not easy. For Kashmir, this is a moment of hope. The region has young people who are thoughtful, capable and willing to work hard. It also has parents who guide them with patience, care and responsibility. Together, they form the foundation of a stronger future. As people often say, mehnat kabhi zaya nahi jaatieffort never goes to waste. The real question is not whether the youth of Kashmir have potential. They do. The real question is how that potential is supported and guided in a meaningful way. Youth development is a continuous journey that requires effort from young people and support from families and the wider community. Both are equally important in shaping the future. There will be challenges along the way, but they are part of growth. What matters is to keep moving forward with patience and belief. So the question is not whether Kashmiri youth can succeed. They can. The real question is how far they are willing to go, and how strongly they are supported along the way. The answer lies within them, in their effort, in their patience and in the strength they draw from their parents. Because the future does not come on its own. It is built step by step through hard work, sincerity and support. And that future is not small. It is full of hope, shaped by dreams and strengthened by the bond between youth and their parents. Beyond what we see today, there are greater possibilities ahead. And together, they have the strength to reach them. (The author writes on youth development. Feedback: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )
India shipped fewer smartphones between April and June 2026 than in any June quarter for six years. Counterpoint Research put the decline at 10 per cent year on year. The figure that deserves more attention sits underneath it. Handsets priced below Rs 15,000, a band that accounts for roughly a third of Indias volumes, fell 45 per cent. That is not consumers losing interest in phones. Indian demand does not turn that quickly. Something changed upstream, and the cost travelled down until it reached the cheapest shelf in the shop. The global artificial intelligence buildout is outbidding handset makers for memory chips, and the resulting price rise has landed hardest on the entry level of Indias phone market. India built its digital state on the assumption that this tier would keep getting cheaper every year. That assumption has broken, and no part of the government appears to own the problem. How a server rack raises the price of a phone in Ranchi Memory is the most commodified component in a smartphone and also the least visible. DRAM handles what the phone is doing at any given moment. NAND flash stores what it keeps. Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron together account for close to 90 per cent of world DRAM output, and those suppliers now serve two very different customers. One builds AI data centres and pays a premium for high bandwidth memory. The other builds phones and competes on price. Capacity has moved toward the first. The price record is unambiguous. Counterpoint recorded DRAM rising more than 50 per cent year on year in the first quarter of 2026 and NAND flash by 90 per cent, at a point when memory already made up 30 to 40 per cent of a handsets bill of materials. Carl Pei of Nothing has said module costs could rise fivefold by year-end, leaving manufacturers to raise prices by around 30 per cent or cut specifications. Indian brands have no leverage here. The country fabricates no memory wafers. It buys at whatever the three suppliers charge, in dollars. The stack assumes a phone The damage is concentrated at the bottom. IDC recorded a 59 per cent year-on-year collapse in Indias sub-100 dollar segment in the first quarter of 2026, its market share falling from 18 per cent to 8 per cent. The forecast is blunter than the number. IDC expects that segment to become permanently uneconomical even after memory prices settle around mid-2027. This is where the second order problem starts. India spent fifteen years moving the machinery of the state onto the handset. UPI, Aadhaar authentication, direct benefit transfers, DigiLocker and the ABHA health record all presume a person holding a device capable of running an app over mobile data. A Rs 6,000 Android phone was the delivery mechanism for financial inclusion, and it got cheaper every year without anyone having to legislate it. That floor is now rising. Counterpoint expects financing to account for 42 per cent of Indian smartphone sales this year, up from 35 per cent in 2025. Access to the digital state is quietly turning into a credit product for the households it was meant to serve. The effect is not evenly distributed. It falls on rural buyers, first time users, women, and regions where the phone is the only practical interface with a government office. In Jammu and Kashmir, where connectivity is already interrupted by administrative order more often than anywhere else in the country, a broken handset that cannot be replaced closes the only door a household has to its own entitlements. The policy that has no owner On 2 August, Ashwini Vaishnaw said India now has 12 semiconductor units carrying about 20 billion dollars in investment, three of them already producing chips, and that Semicon 2.0 has been approved. The Expenditure Finance Committee cleared an outlay of Rs 1.25 lakh crore for the second phase, against Rs 76,000 crore for the first. Look at what it contains. The Tata Electronics plant at Dholera is the only genuine wafer fabrication facility among the approved projects, and it is targeted for 2028. Everything else is assembly, packaging and testing work, or compound semiconductor capacity. None of it is memory fabrication. India does have a memory facility. Microns 2.75 billion dollar plant at Sanand, inaugurated on 28 February this year, handles assembly, test, marking and packaging for DRAM and NAND. Packaging is not fabrication. The wafers arrive from Micron fabs abroad. The plant adds nothing to world supply and gives India no say in what a gigabyte costs. Now set that beside the other half of the same ministrys portfolio. The IndiaAI Mission subsidises GPU compute at roughly Rs 115 to Rs 150 per GPU-hour and has committed to scaling from around 34,000 GPUs to 100,000 by the end of 2026. Hyperscalers have announced more than 30 billion dollars of Indian data centre investment. MeitY is underwriting demand growth in precisely the component market that is pricing Indian households out of the device its own welfare rails depend on. Nobody in the system is required to hold both facts at once. The semiconductor mission answers for units approved. The IndiaAI Mission answers for compute made available. The price of a gigabyte of mobile memory, which now helps decide whether a family in Kupwara can reach a subsidy, belongs to nobodys brief. The case that this corrects itself There is a reasonable argument that the market fixes this without intervention. UPI 123Pay already lets feature phone users transact through voice prompts and missed calls without internet, and NPCI was pushing feature phone-inclusive rails as recently as February. Analysts expect memory supply to loosen around mid-2027 as new capacity arrives. The Union Budget removed import duties on several handset components. Each of those points is true, and none of them closes the gap. UPI 123Pay accounts for somewhere between 5 and 10 per cent of UPI users, and it was designed on the expectation that cheap Android phones would make it redundant, the reverse of what is now happening. The duty exemptions cover batteries, display assemblies and charging components, not memory, because there is no domestic memory industry to protect. A replacement cycle stretched by three years is an accounting detail only to people whose ration entitlement is not authenticated on that handset. Bottom Line Memory has stopped being an ordinary electronics input. It is now an input to financial inclusion, and Indian industrial policy does not classify it that way anywhere. Two moves would begin to correct that. Semicon 2.0 should carry an explicit memory line, even if the realistic target is legacy DRAM for the domestic mass market rather than the leading edge. And the duty schedule should treat memory bound for sub-Rs 15,000 handsets the way it already treats inputs the government has decided are strategic. Neither is a complete answer. Both would at least establish that someone in Delhi is watching the number. Which leaves the question the last two quarters have already put on the table. If the price of DRAM now decides how many Indians can reach a government service, who in the government is tracking it? (The author studies Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence at Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA. He is interested in emerging technologies and innovation, and can be reached on LinkedIn at @arssh-kumar14)
Kashmirs magnanimity towards Iran is magnanimous, but reeks of selectiveness
There is little doubt that historically speaking, Iranian, or to be exact, Persian influence on Kashmir has been of a tremendous magnitude. While Sayyed Sharfuddin Abdur Rahman from Turkistan, fondly remembered as Hazrat Bulbul Shah, belonging to the Suharwadi order, visited Kashmir earlier, the fourteenth century Iranian Kubrawi Saint, Mir Sayyed Ali Hamadani, popularly known as Shah-i-Hamadan remains the most prominent Sufi who came to Kashmir. The Brahmanical social domination coupled with unsteady economic order in the Kashmir Valley after the devastating Mongol invasion led by Dulacha, created room for Sufism. The economy of the Kashmir Valley was on a constant decline, and the socio-political equilibrium was profusely disturbed. The prevailing socio-economic and political situation of the Kashmir Valley worked in favor of Shah-i-Hamadan and he filled the existing void with his ideology that he carried from Iran. Shah-i-Hamadan also took a keen interest in the economy of the Kashmir Valley and introduced the arts and craft techniques of Iran, and suggested ways and means to improve upon the irrigation system in the Valley. People of Kashmir benefitted from his strategies, and involvement in socio-economic activities helped the common man to elevate his standard of living and thereby also accepting Islam as his faith. This historical and emotional connect with Iran was perhaps the foundation of the recent outpouring of support in Kashmir for Iran after the killing of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei, especially from the Shia community while Sunni Muslims too joined in solidarity. Massive demonstrations were organized in Kashmir against the killing, and a substantial donation drive was initiated by Kashmiris collecting funds in the shape of cash, gold, silver, copper, vehicles and other valuables to support the war-affected country. According to some estimates, Kashmiris raised hundreds of Crores of Rupees in a matter of days. With the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1979, the relationship between Kashmir and Iran, especially among the Shia community in Kashmir cemented itself even more. After all, historically, the Shia community in Kashmir had struggled with persecution, especially in the 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th century. Ten campaigns of terror, collectively called Taraaj-e-Shia , were unleashed against them during which their sacred sites were destroyed, women were raped, books were burned and their neighborhoods destroyed. The Islamic revolution in the 20th century in Iran evoked religious and political consciousness among the Shias in Kashmir and nourished further spiritual, public and educational exchanges between Kashmir and Tehran. In essence, in the absence of one at home, Kashmiri Shias found an elder brother in Iran. It is, of course, praiseworthy that such a small population got unified and within a matter of days, tangibly succeeded in financially supporting the people of Iran. However, this piece is not about Shias or Sunnis. Nor is it about us religion. It is also not about Iran, India, Pakistan, Israel or the US. It is about us Kashmiris as human beings. While I genuinely appreciate us Kashmiris for uniting and aiding our Iranian brethren in their predicament, at the same time, I cant help being burdened with a simple and perhaps thought-provoking question; Why havent we Kashmiris, irrespective of being Shia or Sunnis, ever been able to show such unity, such urgency, such support and such magnanimity to other tragedies and calamities? Many of them much closer to home. When carefully considering this conundrum and trying to conscientiously introspect, I must again, with due respect, refer to the common thread running through my writings. Our selective selectiveness. It is exactly this selectiveness of ours, which rather embarrassingly, enables us to keep distinguishing between right and wrong on the basis of religion, sect, nationality and political affiliations and has made us believe that injustice and atrociousness have a face, a name, a nationality, a sect and a God. Depending on that face, the name, the nationality, the sect and the God, we either remain silent or choose to act. There are tens of thousands of people who have suffered due to terrorism in Kashmir since the late eighties and early nineties. Decades of violence and economic malaise have produced an ocean of destitutes, orphans, widows, vilomahs, victims of sexual violence, refugees and persons with disabilities in our own home. While some of us might intermittently give alms to these victims, mostly on religious festivals or to ward off the evil eye, such actions are individual in nature and more than often rooted in our own self-interest inspired by either our belief that such acts will elevate our status in the afterlife or reduce our possible sufferings in this life. Never have we, as a society, tried to unite for the well-being of these people. We have never bothered to institutionalize any attempt to tangibly help our own brothers and sisters. If Kashmir could collect hundreds of Crores in a few days for Iran, why have we failed for over three decades to come up with a financially viable system to collect funds for these victims of violence which we all collectively created? Perhaps a gratis school for these orphans, a free of charge hospital for those with disabilities, small concrete houses for the poor living in sheds, monthly stipends for the widows, legal expenses to fight for dignity and justice for the victims of sexual violence? If we can raise hundreds of Crores in a few days, try doing the math and imagine what we could have done in over three decades. Let alone financial support, how many of us adopted an orphan? How many of us married a widow or a victim of sexual violence? Instead, we spend Lakhs on IVF treatments and ironically many of our so-called leaders responsible for creating widows and victims of sexual violence in the first place, along with shipping in guns and terrorists from apoor , also imported their wives from across the border. Alas. No matter how we try to spin it, we were either guilty by our actions or complicit by our silence for the exodus of the Kashmiri Pandits. Not to mention assisting them financially, many of us still refuse to acknowledge their plight and our own collective culpability. When they were forced out of Kashmir, instead of safeguarding their properties, we looted their household goods, furniture, kitchenware, accessories, electronic gadgets, libraries, papers, files and documents. We pulled out their electricity and sanitary fittings and large number of houses and properties of Kashmiri Pandits went on distress sale. While the situation in Iran over 2,000 kms away somehow felt close, the fate of our Kashmiri Pandit brethren in Jagti township 200 kms away still seems too far away. While I will grant my readers the benefit of the doubt by conceding that not everyone is a keen student of history this ancient, however, some contemporary events are difficult to ignore. Lets start with one of the biggest tragedies closer to home. Mumbai attacks in 2008. 175 innocent people died and more than 300 were injured. Of course, we all condemned, but wouldnt our condemnations carry much more weight had we demonstrated against these attacks with the same ardency as we did against the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei? Such actions were necessitated, not only because of humanitarian reasons, but especially as the terrorists claimed to have carried out these attacks in our name. Why couldnt we initiate a small donation drive in Kashmir which would financially support the injured and the dependents of those who had lost their lives? Lets move on to tragedies even closer to home. In 2016, 17 soldiers were killed in the attack on an Army base in Uri. In 2017, 8 security force personnel were killed in an attack on the District Police Lines in Pulwama. Six Army personnel were killed in an attack on the Sunjuwan Military Camp in Jammu in 2018. In Pulwama in 2019, 44 people were killed when a suicide bomber rammed his vehicle filled with explosives into a CRPF convoy. None of these attacks provoked us Kashmiris to start a donation drive for the soldiers and policemen who were killed. None of us thought of collecting some funds for their wives and children. Of course, their families must have received some relief from the Government, but where was our humanity? These soldiers and policemen were people among us. People who stand a post and defend us. Lets move on to civilians. In 2023, two blasts in Rajouri killed seven civilians including two children while 12 people were injured. In 2024, nine people were killed and an additional 41 were injured in an attack on Hindu pilgrims in Reasi. Also in 2024, seven people were killed, one doctor and six workers, and five people were injured in an attack on a construction site in Gagangir, Ganderbal district. Just a year ago, in 2025, 26 people were murdered at a tourist site in Pahalgam. Natural disasters and accidents perhaps? In July 2021, a cloudburst occurred in in the Dachhan area of Kishtwar district resulting in 26 deaths and 17 injuries. Floods caused by a cloudburst in Amarnath in 2022, killed at least 16 people and left at least 40 of others missing. In 2023, ground collapse in the town of Thathri in Doda district displaced approximately 300 people. Also in 2023, 39 people died and 17 more were injured when the driver of a passenger bus lost control and the vehicle plunged into a deep gorge in Doda district. Flash floods occurred in Chositi in Kishtwar in 2025 as the result of a cloudburst which caused 68 deaths, 300 injuries, and left at least 38 people missing. More recently, in November 2025, an explosion in Nowgam police station in Srinagar, killed nine people and injured around 30. While we managed to raise Crores for Iran in a matter of a few days, not a single penny was raised for any of these souls who died, got injured or were displaced. People who are no different from us. Our own flesh and blood. Humans. Exactly like those living a bit further away in Iran. If we did what we did for Iran on humanitarian basis then we must have done the same for all these victims. If not, then we must muster the courage to admit that what we did for Iran was not solely on humanitarian basis but was perhaps provoked by other considerations. Religion, sect, political affiliations, emotional attachment, historical and cultural ties or perhaps sheer animosity towards Israel, US, the West, NATO, UN? In other words, pure selectiveness. There is no use dwelling on the past, however, the present gives us a lot to reflect. Now that we have shown that we can unite and bring ourselves to help those in need, we must have the propriety and more importantly, the morality, to implement this at home as well. Our religion, our Prophet (SAW) and Imam Ali (AS), all instruct us that charity and help should begin at home with a special emphasis on orphans and widows. None of our teachings even remotely insinuate that we should distinguish between victims. Our first religion is humanity. Perhaps, our historical relation and the recent developments in Iran are intertwined and whisper to us through the mighty Chinar which was brought to Kashmir from Iran. We Kashmiris must try to emulate that grand Irano-Kashmiri Chinar. Determined, firm and unwavering. Providing shade to everyone without bias or prejudice. It is time to turn over a new leaf of the majestic Chinar and abandon our selective selectiveness. Author is the Director of European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS) and can be reached at: j.qureshi@efsas.org )
I am a daughter of Jammu & Kashmir. During my lifetime I have butchered my individuality, my wishes, my dreams and my own self inside my heart, to give life to the other selves around me. Culture, society, manmade laws, traditions, politics and the interpretation of the word of God - all have been culpable of my extortion. It is a cruel irony that while my honour was shamelessly being dissected, I kept receiving the epithet of being the prestige of my household, family, society, culture and country. This is the tale of your daughter, sister, beloved, wife and mother. Narrated by me the one who has been all this, yet is still in search of what she is. I have been Habba Khatoon when Yusuf Shah Chak was the King. I became a lonely wanderer on the streets of my kingdom, when my own brothers invited the Mughals to depose the ruler of my heart. Their sectarianism did not only deprive my land from its native ruler and put the wrath of foreign rule on this Paradise, but it also fragmented my world and made me languish in separation while I mourned my beloved in my songs. Once upon a time my parents started mutilating me by cutting my nose and shaving me bald so that I would be saved from being sold as a slave in the markets of Kabul and Kandahar by the Afghans. I had to stop worshipping my Lord in His house as the next rulers disgraced my mosques and temples by transforming them into stables for horses and cattle. When the invaders reached Baramulla, they ripped my ears off my face, because I used to grace them with ornaments. They made me watch silently while they raped the nuns of my city like animals, before I also fell prey to their lust. To serve humanity, I became a nurse and took the name of Sarla Bhat. I was abducted, gang-raped and killed. My body was thrown like garbage in the streets of Srinagar. I also became a doctor and was called Rubiya Sayeed. In the name of freedom, I was kidnapped and made a prisoner because of my parentage. I was also one of the many unfortunate women in the remote village of Kunan-Poshpora. While the darkness of that night was not my shortcoming, I am still being punished by the torchbearers who claim to fight for my justice. I still cannot be someones wife and am haunted by isolation, as my past has not only devastated me, but has also turned me into an outcast. Some also call me Zainab, whose brother was butchered after being made to watch how I was raped by terrorists in Bandipora. People also refer to me as Neelofar and at times Aasiya, who were dishonoured and killed. The call for my justice soon turned into politics and vanished in thick enquiry reports afterwards. I have been exploited by men who claim to fight for my and their freedom, and at times, I have been exploited by men who claim to defend my and their freedom. Meanwhile it was only my freedom which was chained and made a prisoner of this so-called masculine war. Had it not been for me, whom would you have asked justice for? Whom would you have ruled over? Whom would you have kidnapped? Whom would you have raped? Had I not existed, what exactly would have proven your masculinity? What exactly would have made you a Man, if I would not have been? I still see myself in the eyes of the many walking corpses resembling me. All of them having the same desultory stare in their eyes as I have. I hear my name in the deafening cries of Bimla and her daughter Archana, whenever I pass by Nai-Sadak. I see my limbs in the mutilated body of Girija. I smell myself in the torn, stenchy clothes of Neelofar, Aasiya, Zainab and Sarla. I see myself appear and disappear in the lingering sighs when I look at the orphaned daughter of the policeman who died during duty. I pray to God that someday, you might recognize your daughter, sister, beloved, wife and mother in our eyes as well. While some are fortunate enough to choose whom they love, I wasnt. I once rejected someones love, and he displayed his affection for me by disfiguring my face with acid. Since then, I enjoy the luxury of not being bothered whom to love anymore as now my face even terrifies the little girl in the mirror. My brother used to spend his evenings with his friends on the roadside, teasing girls returning from tuition-class, yet his hypocrisy ordered me to wear a Burkha . Although my Almighty has ordered both men and women to lower their gaze, the place where I live in, men have concluded that it is my character which deserves blemish, when they fail to follow His edict. When an earthquake struck my land and when it was flooded with devastating floods, it was my demeanour which was held responsible for bringing about Gods fury. My father always used to say that I had been a blessing from God, yet at the time of my departure from his house, I somehow turned into a curse. A curse which made him sell his land and get drowned in debts in order to defray the expensive journey from my temporary house to my permanent home. A journey to a destination where my eminence was not only established by the magnitude of the dowry I brought with me, but also by the pretentiousness of the cloak of enforced masquerades which I had to start wearing then onwards. In my new home, my new life became clear very soon. As long as I fulfilled my responsibilities, I did not exist. My existence was only noticed by others when I failed to please them. I was the one who would wake up when dawn had just started kissing the surface of the earth and would go to sleep when the dawn of the next morning would be only a few hours away. In between, I was responsible for ensuring that my new family was content with my presence. Raising my children and at times even the children of my brother- and sister in law, cooking, cleaning, ironing, adapting myself to the wishes and habits of my new parents, listening when told to, keeping silent when ordered to, speaking when allowed to and even folding the handkerchiefs of my husband the way he had instructed, became the pillars of my new world. Without realizing, I had turned into a numb woman while distancing myself from the youthful girl full of joy and dreams, which I once used to be. In this land of numerous graves, the little girl inside me had also died. My new home had become the graveyard of my tarnished soul. I remember that while commuting between the duties of a wife, a mother and a daughter in law, I once fell terribly sick. While being sick, I was allowed to return to my temporary house again. Not because that was what I asked for, but because the pleasures of my existence were only to be enjoyed without assuming the burdens of it. In soundness I was a daughter in law often referred to as a daughter. In sickness, I once again became the daughter of my own father. My transition in my new home was only marked by me. For others, it was a fulfilment of their expectations. However, only I know how painful this drift of conversion had been. A drift, which would have been much more bearable if it was complimented by compliments, acknowledged by acknowledgement and respected by respect for my seemingly effortless efforts. Much has changed in Kashmir in just a few decades. There was a time when it was natural for me to administer the affairs of the household as well as the country. A time, when flower-festivals were celebrated in Kashmir and women were offered garlands for their commitment and dedication to society. Apparently, the imported gun killed much more than mere bodies. Today, the need has risen to establish a separate police-station for me, manned by only women as otherwise my safety cannot be guaranteed. Today, a 14-year-old brainwashed kid born from my womb, who still needs me to dress himself up, steps into the house and teaches me about honour and respect when he orders me to veil myself. It reminded me of the days when I welcomed bullets in my legs when I dared to defy similar diktats concerning my attire. It makes me wonder whether these new-age defenders of religion and sanctity will confine themselves to just lecturing? To me, it seems that their belief, for some reason, is much stronger than that of their predecessors. When I was young, I never heard anything about women being set ablaze or reaching the hospital with broken bones and a disfigured face. I am sure that just like me, you must have noticed thousands of such cases during the past years. The fact that many of the perpetrators derive their justifications from their interpretations of religion should worry us both. Deep inside your heart, you know, as no one else, that I have been the actual martyr in this war-torn paradise. When it suited you, I was strangulated. And when it suited you, I had to forget all diktats, teachings and so-called cultural and social values and was forced to courier arms and ammunition. It was me who had to provide shelter and food to you when you entered my home at gunpoint. It was me who was made to lay down in one bed with you so that when they came looking for you, it could be claimed that you were my husband and the son-in-law of our family. Not because we believed in what you did, but because if we didnt do what you ordered us to do, you would have killed us. I was abandoned. Used. Misused. Abused. Injustice mounted upon me provided stock to the merchants of lies and dreams, which kept their shops open. My sufferings were valued, re-branded and sold over and over again by you. The game of deceit in this Valley has had many casualties and with every casualty a part of me was killed. When my father was murdered, I became an orphan. After the disappearance of my husband, I received the cognomen of half-widow. When my son was killed, I was called infecund and when I heard that my husband got martyred, I was named a widow. Sometimes when I am alone, I get amazed at Allahs instituted scales of justice. While losing others in my life, my names have changed continuously. Yet, whenever I have lost myself, killed my wishes and murdered my dreams to adorn others around me and justify my existence, I have been called by the same names as before. A daughter, a sister, a beloved, a wife and a mother. Having been all this, that one question still haunts me; What am I? Writer is the Director of European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS) and can be reached at j.qureshi@efsas.org .
South Kashmir: Man Held with Grenade, Anti-national Posters
SRINAGAR: A man was apprehended during a joint security operation in south Kashmirs Pulwama district on Sunday, with a hand grenade and anti-national posters recovered from his possession, officials said. A senior police officer said that a joint naka was laid near Pachaar Fruit Mandi by the Police, Special Operations Group (SOG), CRPF and the []
Man Dies After Being Hit by Train in Jammu Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A 40-year-old man was killed after being struck by the Hemgiri Express near Chainpura in the Chandwan area of Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, reports said. The deceased was identified as Satish Singh, son of Omkar Singh, a resident of Village Chandea in Hiranagar tehsil of Kathua district. Reports said the []
Paras Health Srinagar Performs Advanced Endoscopic Procedure for Complex Pancreatic Condition
SRINAGAR: Paras Health Srinagar has successfully performed an advanced Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage procedure for a patient with a large walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WON), while the hospitals Gastroenterology unit has also crossed the milestone of performing more than 600 EUS procedures, the hospital said on Saturday. According to Paras Health Srinagar, the patient had developed []
