Jammu & kashmir

Modi Lowered Dignity Of PMs Chair: J&K Cong On Melody Toffee Video

SRINAGAR, May 22: Jammu and Kashmir Congress chief Tariq Karra on Friday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi lowered the dignity of the office he holds. Referring to the viral video showing Prime Minister Modi gifting a packet of toffee to his Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, Karra said such actions were unbecoming of a countrys leader. If we have to talk about Modis casual governance, then it can be talked about in volumes. But Modi has lowered the esteem of [] The post Modi Lowered Dignity Of PMs Chair: J&K Cong On Melody Toffee Video appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

He Got What He Deserved: Father Of Slain Pulwama Attack Mastermind Seeks Release Of Eldest Son

SRINAGAR, May 22: Father of Pulwama attack mastermind Burhan Hamza who was shot dead by unknown assailants in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Friday said his son got what he deserved for treading the wrong path, but the family should not be persecuted. Arjumand Gulzar, alias Burhan Hamza, alias Doctor, a designated terrorist and the mastermind behind the 2019 terror attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmirs Pulwama, was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in PoK on [] The post He Got What He Deserved: Father Of Slain Pulwama Attack Mastermind Seeks Release Of Eldest Son appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

India Successfully Test-Launches Agni-1 Ballistic Missile

NEW DELHI, May 22: India on Friday successfully test-fired short-range ballistic missile Agni-1 from the integrated test range at Odishas Chandipur, the defence ministry said. The launch validated all operational and technical parameters, it said. The test was carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command, the ministry said. The Agni 1 to 4 missiles have ranges from 700 km to 3,500 km and they have already been deployed. (Agencies) The post India Successfully Test-Launches Agni-1 Ballistic Missile appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Traffic Advisory For May 23: Slow Traffic Likely on NH-44 Amid Road Work, Nomadic Movement

JAMMU, May 22: The Traffic Department on Friday issued a fresh advisory for May 23, cautioning commuters about possible slow traffic movement on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) due to single-lane stretches, movement of nomadic herds and ongoing road construction works. Officials said traffic remained sluggish on NH-44 from May 21 to May 22, especially between Marog and Kishtwari Pather, because of single-lane road conditions, breakdown of two heavy motor vehicles at Dalwas and movement of eight nomadic herds between [] The post Traffic Advisory For May 23: Slow Traffic Likely on NH-44 Amid Road Work, Nomadic Movement appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

J&K: Authorities Raze Illegal Commercial Property Of Suspected Drug Peddler In Udhampur

Jammu, May 22 : Police and civil administration said they demolished an alleged illegal commercial property of an drug peddler in Jammu and Kashmirs Udhampur district as part of an ongoing crackdown against narcotics trafficking, officials said. The drive targeted shops allegedly built on government land near Dewal bridge along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in the Samroli area. Officials said the properties belonged to Trilochan Dutt who has allegedly been involved in multiple drug smuggling cases and has encroached upon [] The post J&K: Authorities Raze Illegal Commercial Property Of Suspected Drug Peddler In Udhampur appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

IGP Kashmir Reviews Security Arrangements For Upcoming Eid-Ul-Adha And Amarnath Yatra

SRINAGAR, May 22: Inspector General of Police Kashmir Zone, V.K. Birdi-IPS, reviewed security and logistical arrangements during a meeting held at PCR Kashmir to assess preparedness for upcoming festivals and the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY). During the meeting, District SSsP gave detailed presentations regarding security preparedness, deployment plans, traffic regulation, crowd management measures, and other logistical arrangements concerning Eid-ul-Adha celebrations and the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra. Highlighting the significance of the Eid celebrations, IGP Kashmir directed officers to implement [] The post IGP Kashmir Reviews Security Arrangements For Upcoming Eid-Ul-Adha And Amarnath Yatra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Union Health Ministry Directs States, UTs To Bolster Surveillance Amid Ebola Outbreak

New Delhi, May 22: The Union Health Ministry has asked all states and Union territories to step up surveillance, hospital preparedness and screening of international travellers following the WHOs declaration of the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). In a letter to chief secretaries and administrators of UTs on May 21, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava said countries bordering DRC and Uganda, including South Sudan, have [] The post Union Health Ministry Directs States, UTs To Bolster Surveillance Amid Ebola Outbreak appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

ACB Registers Disproportionate Assets Case Against AEE In Kishtwar

KISHTWAR, May 22: The Jammu & Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau has registered a disproportionate assets case against AEE Hydraulic Sub-Division Chhatroo, Kishtwar, alleging possession of assets far exceeding his known sources of income, officials said. They said searches were conducted at multiple locations in Doda and Kishtwar following court-issued warrants. Further investigation is underway. A spokesperson said the J&K Anti-Corruption Bureau has registered FIR No. 01/2026 under Section 13(1)(b) read with 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 at Police [] The post ACB Registers Disproportionate Assets Case Against AEE In Kishtwar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

CS Atal Dulloo Reviews Comprehensive Traffic Decongestion Plan For Jammu, Srinagar Cities

SRINAGAR, May 22: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo today chaired the 5th meeting of the Multi Disciplinary Committee (MDC) on Traffic Management System to review the implementation of a comprehensive action plan aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving mobility in the twin cities of Jammu and Srinagar. The Chief Secretary highlighted the significance of the recommendations put forth by the committee headed by the Principal Secretary, Home, and called for a time-bound action plan for their effective implementation. The Chief [] The post CS Atal Dulloo Reviews Comprehensive Traffic Decongestion Plan For Jammu, Srinagar Cities appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Dy CM Surinder Choudhary Calls For Time Bound Report On Gair Mumkin Khads

SRINAGAR, MAY 22: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today chaired a meeting of the Sub-Committee constituted to examine the issues related to Gair Mumkin Khads in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting, held at the Civil Secretariat Srinagar, was attended by Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana and Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar, who are members of the Sub-Committee. The Deputy Chief Minister [] The post Dy CM Surinder Choudhary Calls For Time Bound Report On Gair Mumkin Khads appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

SC Questions Quota To Children Of Economically, Educationally Advanced Families In Backward Classes

NEW DELHI, May 22: Observing that with educational and economic empowerment there is social mobility, the Supreme Court on Friday questioned the continued grant of reservation benefits to children of economically and educationally advanced families within backward classes. A bench of Justices B V Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan was hearing a plea challenging a Karnataka High Court judgment which upheld the exclusion of the petitioner, whose parents are both state government employees, from reservation. If both parents are IAS officers, [] The post SC Questions Quota To Children Of Economically, Educationally Advanced Families In Backward Classes appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Central Govt Offices In Delhi To Remain Closed On May 28 On Eid-ul-Azha

NEW DELHI, May 22: All central government administrative offices located in Delhi shall remain closed on May 28, on account of Eid-ul-Azha, the personnel ministry said on Friday. Earlier, the Centre had declared a holiday on Eid-ul-Azha on May 27. Central government administrative offices located at Delhi/New Delhi shall remain closed on 28th May, 2026, on account of Id-ul-Zuha (Bakrid) (in place of 27th May, 2026), it said in a statement. The post Central Govt Offices In Delhi To Remain Closed On May 28 On Eid-ul-Azha appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Three-day interim bail for Umar Khalid in UAPA case

NEW DELHI, May 22: The Delhi High Court on Friday granted three-day interim bail to activist Umar Khalid, who is in custody in a case under anti-terror law UAPA concerning the larger conspiracy behind the February 2020 riots in the citys northeastern parts. A bench of Justices Prathiba M Singh and Madhu Jain permitted Khalid to be released from June 1 to June 3 to enable him to meet his mother who has to undergo a surgery. The bench noted [] The post Three-day interim bail for Umar Khalid in UAPA case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Omar Abdullah Missing Poster Sparks Political Row In J&K, Farooq Hits Back At BJP

SRINAGAR, May 22: A political storm erupted in Jammu and Kashmir after the BJP circulated online Omar Abdullah missing posters in a bid to mock the chief minister. The BJPs J&K unit shared the missing posters on its social media handles, seeking information about Abullah and claiming that he has been missing for the last ten days. The saffron partys criticism comes amid reports that the chief minister is outside Jammu and Kashmir on a personal visit. Reacting to the [] The post Omar Abdullah Missing Poster Sparks Political Row In J&K, Farooq Hits Back At BJP appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Forest fire control and mitigation workshop held in J-Ks Udhampur

Udhampur (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], May 22: In response to rapidly rising summer temperatures and an elevated risk of wildfires, the Udhampur Forest Division on Friday launched a comprehensive master plan centred on awareness, prevention, caution, and control to minimise environmental damage across the region. As part of this initiative, specialised department teams are actively conducting extensive village outreach programs throughout the Mand Panchayat in the Udhampur district to equip residents with vital survival, emergency response, and containment skills. In response to rising summer wildfire risks, Divisional Forest Officer Satyendra Maurya urged Udhampur residents to act as crucial first responders following a specialised mitigation workshop and two recent fire incidents. On behalf of the Udhampur Forest Division, we organised a forest fire control and mitigation workshop. The possibility of forest fires grows during the summer. We organised an awareness camp with locals, the forest department, and other sister wings. We appealed to the locals that they have an important role to play in case of mitigating forest fires because they are the first responders. There were two minor incidents of forest fires recently, Maurya told ANI. A local from Mand Panchayat, Razaq Mohammad, speaking to ANI, said, Officers from the forest department and the DFO made us aware about not lighting fires in the forest. They also organised a mock drill to prepare us for what to do in case of a forest fire. Emphasising community responsibility, Mand Panchayat local Jyoti Prakash Sharma highlighted that safeguarding the forest is a collective duty, sharing vital containment techniques learned during the workshop. This forest is a national treasure for us. Safeguarding this forest is not a one mans job. We have a forest department, but we have to be responsible for it too. We were taught today that before dousing the fire, we have to ensure first that it does not spread, said Sharma. (ANI)

High Court Refuses To Quash Amul Milk Case, Says Unsafe Milk Allegations Must Face Trial

SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has refused to quash criminal proceedings against representatives of Banaskantha District Cooperative Milk Producers Union Ltd, associated with the Amul brand, holding that concerns involving public health and food safety cannot be compromised by commercial considerations or procedural objections. The judgment, delivered by Justice Wasim Sadiq []

Jammu woman sets herself on fire after boyfriend ignores calls; hospitalised with 80 pc burns

JAMMU: A 22-year-old woman allegedly set herself ablaze here after her boyfriend did not respond to her phone calls, police said on Friday. The incident occurred near the Tawi bridge area on Thursday when the woman allegedly poured an inflammable substance on herself and set herself on fire in a fit of rage, they said. []

Pak Interior Minister meets Iranian Foreign Minister for 2nd time as deliberations on ceasefire proposal continue

Tehran , May 22 : Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday held another meeting with Pakistans Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Tehran amid the ongoing negotiations on a ceasefire agreement between Washington and Tehran, the Tasnim News reported. Naqvi met Abbas Araghchi to mediate between the US and Iran so both parties can move an inch closer towards ending the West Asia conflict.Currently, Tehran is reviewing the proposal from the American side delivered via Pakistani mediators. Iran is yet to make a formal answer to the proposal. An Iranian official earlier told Al Jazeera that negotiators were very close to reaching an understanding.Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio provided crucial insights into Washingtons perspective on the current engagement. So hopefully that will advance this further, he stated, referring to the upcoming deliberations in the Iranian capital.Rubio underscored the US administrations primary focus on securing a robust agreement, The Presidents preference is to do a good deal, thats his preference. Its always been his preference. If we can get a good deal done, that would be great, Rubio said. While acknowledging certain positive indicators in the diplomatic track, Rubio maintained a measured and realistic outlook regarding the immediate trajectory. He added, There are some good signs, but I dont want to be overly optimistic as well, so lets see what happens over the next few days.Notably, Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir is likely to travel to Tehran on Thursday as negotiations for peace talks continue, as reported by ISNA. According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Pakistan continues to mediate exchanges of messages between Tehran and Washington, adding that several rounds of communication have taken place based on Irans original 14-point framework. The latest round of diplomatic negotiations follows a stern message from US President Trump, who called on Iran to show intent on sealing a deal.Its right on the borderline, believe me. If we dont get the right answers, it goes very quickly. Were all ready to go. We have to get the right answers it would have to be a complete 100 per cent good answers, Trump told reporters on Wednesday (local time) at Joint Base Andrews. Amid highly volatile and fragile diplomatic engagements between Tehran and Washington, Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has ordered that the stockpile of enriched uranium should not leave the country, rejecting the US President Donald Trumps key demand in ongoing peace talks, Reuters reported, quoting two Iranian sources. (ANI)

NATO allies bewildered by Trumps about face on US troop moves in Europe

HELSINBORG (Sweden), May 22: NATO allies and defence officials expressed bewilderment on Friday at US President Donald Trumps decision to send 5,000 American troops to Poland just weeks after he had ordered 5,000 troops to be pulled out of Europe. It is confusing indeed, and not always easy to navigate, Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard told reporters at a meeting she was hosting of her NATO counterparts, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. US defence officials were also [] The post NATO allies bewildered by Trumps about face on US troop moves in Europe appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Jammu: Woman Sets Herself Ablaze After Boyfriend Ignores Her Calls

SRINAGAR: A 22-year-old woman from Jammu allegedly attempted self-immolation after her boyfriend failed to respond to her phone calls, police said on Friday, according to multiple media reports, including The Tribune. According to police, the incident occurred on Thursday near the Tawi Bridge area, where the woman is believed to have poured an inflammable substance []

Two Indians die while descending from Everest summit, says official

KATHMANDU, May 22: Two Indian mountaineers who summited Everest have died while descending, an official said on Friday. The climbers have been identified as Arun Kumar Tiwari and Sandeep Are. It appears that Are summited on Wednesday and Tiwari on Thursday around 5.30 pm, said Rishi Bhandari, secretary general of the Expedition Operators Association of Nepal. The guides worked really hard but were not able to save them, he told PTI. Are died on Thursday and it is not clear [] The post Two Indians die while descending from Everest summit, says official appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

23 terrorists killed in operations in Pakistan

PESHAWAR, May 22:Pakistani security forces killed 23 terrorists during a series of operations conducted on Wednesday and Thursday in the countrys restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the militarys media wing said on Friday. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said troops carried out intelligence-based operations at multiple areas, including Datta Khel, Spinwam and Bannu, and engaged terrorists in intense exchanges of fire. As many as 23 terrorists were killed in these operations, it said. According to the ISPR, a wanted militant, identified [] The post 23 terrorists killed in operations in Pakistan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

US sanctions Tanzanian police chief over human rights violations

NAIROBI, May 22: The United States has sanctioned Tanzanias police chief and barred him from entering the US, citing alleged human rights violations committed by the police force. The sanctions announced Thursday followed a general election in October in which President Samia Suluhu Hassan won a full term with 97% of the vote after a crackdown on opposition figures. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in December said the country was reviewing its ties with Tanzania over repression and [] The post US sanctions Tanzanian police chief over human rights violations appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Alberta province plans public vote on whether to hold binding referendum on leaving Canada

TORONTO, May 22: Canadas oil-rich province of Alberta will hold a referendum in October on leaving Canada, but the provinces premier said it wont actually be a vote on whether to separate. Danielle Smith said voters instead would be deciding whether its time to hold a referendum on quitting Canada. I want to be clear. I support Alberta remaining in Canada, and this is how I would vote on separation in a provincial referendum. It is also the position of [] The post Alberta province plans public vote on whether to hold binding referendum on leaving Canada appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

RBI injects Rs 81,590 cr transient liquidity into banking system via 3-day VRR auction

MUMBAI, May 22: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Friday injected Rs 81,590 crore transient liquidity into the banking system through a three-day variable rate repo (VRR) auction. Transient liquidity is temporary cash flow fluctuations in a financial or banking system, while a Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction is a monetary tool used by the RBI to inject short-term liquidity into the banking system. In a release the RBI said the funds were infused at a 5.26 per cent [] The post RBI injects Rs 81,590 cr transient liquidity into banking system via 3-day VRR auction appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

LG Sinha Says Drug Trade Fuelling Terrorism In J&K, Vows To Protect Youth

JAMMU, May 22: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that drugs and terrorism are two sides of the same coin in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that investigations have revealed direct links between narcotics smuggling networks and terror organisations operating in the region. Addressing a programme on the drug-free Jammu and Kashmir campaign, the LG said evidence gathered during various investigations has shown the involvement of the neighbouring country in promoting drug smuggling to finance terrorism and radicalisation activities. He [] The post LG Sinha Says Drug Trade Fuelling Terrorism In J&K, Vows To Protect Youth appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

DRI seizes 60,000 kg smuggled foreign-origin areca nuts

NEW DELHI, May 22: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 60,000 kg of smuggled foreign-origin areca nuts in the north-east region and arrested five persons, the finance ministry said on Friday. Acting on specific intelligence, DRI conducted operations in Mizoram and Assam, which led to these seizures. Initial investigations revealed that foreign-origin dried areca nuts were smuggled into India from Myanmar through the Myanmar-Mizoram border. In one of the operations, DRI was assisted by 38Bn of Assam Rifles. [] The post DRI seizes 60,000 kg smuggled foreign-origin areca nuts appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Farooq Abdullah Blames PDP for Destruction of Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Friday criticised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), holding it responsible for what he termed the destruction of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking to reporters outside the Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar, Abdullah alleged that the PDP had inflicted considerable damage during its time in office and []

Jammu Woman Sets Herself On Fire After Boyfriend Ignores Calls; Hospitalised With 80% Burns

JAMMU, May 22: A 22-year-old woman allegedly set herself ablaze here after her boyfriend did not respond to her phone calls, police said on Friday. The incident occurred near the Tawi bridge area on Thursday when the woman allegedly poured an inflammable substance on herself and set herself on fire in a fit of rage, they said. Passersby immediately rushed to her aid and managed to douse the flames before police personnel admitted her to a hospital for treatment. The [] The post Jammu Woman Sets Herself On Fire After Boyfriend Ignores Calls; Hospitalised With 80% Burns appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

ACC Approves Mukesh Singhs Inter-Cadre Deputation To Manipur

JAMMU, May 22: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the inter-cadre deputation of 1996-batch AGMUT cadre IPS officer Mukesh Singh to the Manipur cadre for a period of 3 years. According to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), the proposal of the Ministry of Home Affairs for deputation of Mukesh Singh has been cleared in relaxation of the conditions of inter-cadre deputation. The ACC has also waived the mandatory cooling off period [] The post ACC Approves Mukesh Singhs Inter-Cadre Deputation To Manipur appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Sajad Lone Visits Residence of Er Rashid, MLA Sheikh Khursheed to Offer Condolences on Fathers Demise

Srinagar, May 22:J&K Peoples Conference President & MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone led a senior party delegation on Friday to the residence of Baramulla MP Er Rashid and Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed to offer condolences on the passing of their father, Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh. The delegation, comprising Chief Spokesperson Advocate Bashir Ahmad Dar, Provincial President Kashmir & Former Chairman DDC Kupwara Irfan Panditpuri, District President Kupwara Hafiz Ullah Mir, and District Coordinator Abdul Ahad Kashmiri, expressed heartfelt solidarity with the grieving family and prayed for peace for the departed soul. Addressing the gathering, Sajad Lone emphasized that his visit completely transcended political boundaries and was deeply rooted in decades of profound personal connection. While openly acknowledging their current political differences, Lone underscored the enduring mutual respect between their families. He fondly recalled the 2009 parliamentary elections, noting that although Er Rashid opposed him politically at the time, the late Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, his wife and Sheikh Khursheed had steadfastly supported and voted for him out of unwavering affection & loyalty to the late Abdul Ghani Lone. Reflecting on their shared history, Lone reminisced about his earliest interactions with Er Rashid over two decades ago, well before Rashids entry into mainstream politics. Reaffirming the strictly personal nature of his condolence visit, Lone stated unequivocally that he was standing not at the residence of an MP or an MLA, but at the home of Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, a man he warmly remembered for his constant prayers and deep respect. Concluding his address, Lone reiterated that political rivalries belong outside the doors of a grieving household and prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul the highest place in paradise.

Severe Heatwave Conditions Likely To Prevail Over Parts Of India: IMD

NEW DELHI, May 22: Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are likely to persist over the plains of northwest India, Central and East India, and parts of Peninsular India during the next six to seven days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Friday. The IMD stated that heatwave conditions are likely in isolated areas of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh from May 22 to May 28. Severe heatwave conditions over East Uttar Pradesh and East Madhya Pradesh are expected during [] The post Severe Heatwave Conditions Likely To Prevail Over Parts Of India: IMD appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Heavy Vehicles Banned on Salmey Bridge Amid Safety Concerns in Udhampur

SRINAGAR: The Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Udhampur has imposed a strict ban on the movement of heavy vehicles over the Salmey Bridge/Aqueduct in view of safety concerns and potential structural risk. Acting under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, ADM, Umesh Shan issued the order after reports indicated continued movement of []

Fake HSRP racket busted in Srinagar

Police register FIR; main accused from Delhi Idrees Bukhtiyar Srinagar, May 21:Srinagar Police have registered a case into an alleged racket involving the manufacture and supply of counterfeit High Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) in the city and adjoining areas, following a complaint by an authorised HSRP vendor who claimed that fake number plates were being sold openly through social media platforms. According to the FIR lodged at Saddar Police Station, the complaint was filed by Rahul Bhasin, an authorised representative of Rosmerta Technologies Limited, a company engaged in manufacturing and supplying HSRPs across India and an authorised vendor for a majority of vehicle manufacturers in Jammu and Kashmir. In his complaint addressed to the Superintendent of Police, South Srinagar, Bhasin alleged that unauthorised operators were manufacturing and affixing fake HSRPs that closely resembled genuine plates, thereby creating a parallel black market that could undermine national security and defeat the purpose of the HSRP scheme introduced by the central government. The complaint stated that the company had noticed a growing trend of vehicle owners replacing original HSRPs with custom-made counterfeit plates. It further alleged that one such operation was functioning through an Instagram page identified as Turbo Shine Customs, reportedly operating near Ashai Bagh, Nageen Bridge in Srinagar. To verify the allegations, the complainant reportedly contacted the operators while posing as a customer. During the interaction, an individual identified as Numan Iqbal allegedly assured him that the fake plates could replicate original HSRPs by copying laser codes from vehicle registration certificates (RCs). The accused allegedly quoted 1,600 for the plates and shared images of fabricated number plates bearing the complainants vehicle registration number. The FIR noted that HSRPs were introduced after the 2002 Parliament attack to strengthen vehicle identification systems and prevent the misuse of vehicles in crimes and terror-related activities. The plates contain specific security features, including laser-etched unique identification codes linked to government databases. The complainant alleged that counterfeit plates were being manufactured using the AA laser code series exclusively allotted to Rosmerta Technologies Limited by the Automotive Research Association of India. According to the complaint, fake plates lacked mandatory security features and violated Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. Following directions from senior police officers, Saddar Police initiated a preliminary inquiry under Section 173 (3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). During the inquiry, police summoned two persons Noman Iqbal Bhat of Bandipora and Fazil Rafiq Jan of Tangbagh, Srinagar. According to the inquiry report, both individuals admitted ordering HSRP-style number plates through Instagram pages, including Turbo Shine Customs and Nishant Elite Plates. The duo reportedly told police that they initially purchased the plates for aesthetic purposes and for making social media reels. Later, after friends and acquaintances showed interest, they allegedly began arranging similar plates for others, charging 1,400 per plate and earning a profit of around 400 per plate. Police said the two accused claimed they believed the plates were legal since such products were openly advertised on Instagram and other online platforms. The inquiry further revealed that the complainant himself had ordered one such plate through the Instagram account and retained it as evidence. Police said a prima facie case had been established, prompting the registration of an FIR under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including sections related to cheating, forgery, making false documents and counterfeiting of plates and marks. We have served notice to the accused in this regard and asked them to cooperate with the investigation, a police official said, adding, However, the main accused is from Delhi.

How to Choose the Right Fund Option in a ULIP Plan

Choosing how to stash your cash in a Ulip plan can feel a bit like staring at an overly long restaurant menu. You know you want something thats going to satisfy your long-term hunger for wealth, but with so many fund options on the table, its easy to get a bit of choice paralysis. A Unit Linked Insurance Plan is a bit of a hybrid; its part life insurance and part investment. The beautyand the challengeis that the heavy lifting [] The post How to Choose the Right Fund Option in a ULIP Plan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

From Gym to Office: Versatile Digital Watches for Every Occasion

Lets be real, the daily grind is absolutely hectic nowadays. One minute you are smashing a morning workout session, and the next you are running late for a massive corporate presentation. Who actually has the time to change their entire aesthetic every single hour? Absolutely nobody, which is exactly why your wrist game needs a major, versatile upgrade. Forget about those fragile, old-school timepieces. It is officially time to switch to digital watches that can effortlessly do both. These modern [] The post From Gym to Office: Versatile Digital Watches for Every Occasion appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

SC Grants Bail To Accused In UAPA Case Over Recruitment Of Hybrid Terrorists

NEW DELHI, May 22: The Supreme Court on Friday granted bail to Suhail Ahmad Thokar, who was arrested in a UAPA case for allegedly conspiring with proscribed terrorist groups to recruit hybrid terrorists, radicalise youth and execute acts of terrorism following the repeal of Article 370 of the Constitution. The Centre had on August 5, 2019 abrogated the provisions of Article 370 of the Constitution, which bestowed a special status on the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. A bench [] The post SC Grants Bail To Accused In UAPA Case Over Recruitment Of Hybrid Terrorists appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

High Court Nominates Nodal Officers for Judicial Infrastructure Assessment

SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has issued an order nominating nodal officers for coordination and information submission in connection with the Judicial Infrastructure Assessment, pursuant to a communication dated May 18, 2026 from the Judicial Infrastructure Advisory Committee. According to Order No. 797 of 2026/RG/Infra issued by the Office of the []

Traffic Curbs Announced for Anti-Drug Rally in Shopian

SRINAGAR: Traffic movement in parts of Shopian district will remain suspended for several hours on Saturday in view of a Mega Padyatra being organised under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, authorities said. According to an advisory issued by the Traffic Police Office Rural Kashmir, vehicular movement from Balpora Crossing to Old Bus Stand via Jahangir []

Delhi High Court Grants Three-Day Interim Bail to Umar Khalid for Mothers Surgery

SRINAGAR: The Delhi High Court on Friday granted three-day interim bail to activist and former JNU student leader Umar Khalid in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case, allowing him to visit his ailing mother, who is undergoing medical surgery. A Division Bench of Justice Prathiba M Singh and Justice Madhu Jain passed the order while []

IUST, Paras Hospital Organise BLS and First Aid Awareness Programme

SRINAGAR: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, in collaboration with Paras Hospital, organised a Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid Awareness Programme on its campus on Thursday. The programme was conducted by the University Health Centre, IUST, and witnessed participation from students, teaching faculty, and non-teaching staff. Medical experts from Paras []

Drug Abuse Threatens Kashmirs Social Fabric, Experts Warn at Srinagar Awareness Programme

SRINAGAR: Eminent intellectuals, legal experts, educationists, psychiatrists, doctors and social activists on Thursday called for a united societal response against the growing menace of drug addiction in Kashmir during a community awareness programme organised by Common Interest Conversations at the Amar Singh Club Srinagar. Held under the theme Resilient Minds, Drug-Free Future, the programme brought []

Heavy Vehicles Banned On Salmey Bridge In Udhampur Over Safety Concerns

Udhampur, May 22: The District Administration Udhampur has imposed a strict ban on the movement of heavy vehicles, including trucks, tippers and dumpers, over the Salmey Bridge/Aqueduct citing serious safety concerns and threat to structural integrity. According to an order issued by Additional District Magistrate Udhampur Dr. Umesh Shan under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the restriction has been enforced following reports from the Executive Engineer, Civil Maintenance Division, PDC Udhampur. The communication stated that [] The post Heavy Vehicles Banned On Salmey Bridge In Udhampur Over Safety Concerns appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

India, Cyprus upgrade ties to a strategic partnership

India and Cyprus have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership. A joint task force will boost cooperation in infrastructure and shipping. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides discussed global issues including West Asia and Ukraine. Both nations aim to double investment in the next five years. Maritime security and counter-terrorism cooperation will also expand.

Justice Sanjay Dhar Appointed Judicial Nodal Authority For Infrastructure Assessment In J&K High Court

JAMMU, May 22: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has nominated Justice Sanjay Dhar as the Judicial Nodal Authority for coordination with the Judicial Infrastructure Advisory Committee headed by Supreme Court Judge Justice Aravind Kumar. According to an order issued by the Office of the Registrar General at Srinagar, the nomination has been made in connection with furnishing information and questionnaires regarding judicial infrastructure assessment pursuant to a communication dated May 18, 2026. The order, bearing No. [] The post Justice Sanjay Dhar Appointed Judicial Nodal Authority For Infrastructure Assessment In J&K High Court appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Why Updating Your Address, Usage, and Vehicle Details Matters in Car Insurance

A motor policy works well when the details in it match your current life and vehicle records. Changes in your address, car usage and vehicle details may seem small, but they can affect policy servicing, renewal checks and claim-related communication. In car insurance, correct information supports smoother coordination between you and the insurer. This article explains why these updates matter and how they keep your policy records clear. Role of Information Accuracy in Car Insurance Policy Correct information helps the insurer maintain records that reflect your actual vehicle and ownership details. It also makes it easier to review the policy during renewal, claim intimation, transfer or correction requests. Your policy should match important documents such as the registration certificate, identity details and communication information. If any details change, informing the insurer as per the policy process can reduce confusion later. Why Updating Your Address is Important Your address is not only used for communication. It may also be linked to how your vehicle location is recorded in the policy. When you shift to a new home or move the vehicle to a different regular location, your insurer should have the updated address. This keeps the policy record clear and current. Risk Assessment Based on Location The place where your car is usually kept can be considered during policy review. Different locations may have different road conditions, traffic patterns and parking arrangements. If your policy has an old address, the recorded details may not match your current situation. Updating the address helps the insurer keep the policy aligned with where the vehicle is now mainly used or parked. Impact on Claims and Communication Correct address details can make communication easier during renewals, claim updates, inspection requests and document checks. It also reduces the chance of important messages going to the wrong place. During a claim review, the insurer may check policy details and supporting documents. If the address is outdated, you may need to give extra clarification as per policy wording and insurer requirements. Compliance Requirement Insurance records should carry accurate and updated information. A permanent address change should be shared with the insurer through the correct process. This does not mean every short trip needs an update. However, if your main residence or regular vehicle location changes, the policy record should be corrected in a timely manner. Why Declaring Correct Vehicle Usage Matters Vehicle usage shows how the car is used. Personal, business-related and commercial usage may be assessed differently under motor insurance terms. If a car is declared for one type of use but is regularly used for another, the policy record may not reflect the actual exposure. This can lead to additional checks during renewal or claim review. Correct declaration supports transparent underwriting and reduces confusion later. Usage details should be reviewed whenever the way the vehicle is used changes. The insurer can guide the policyholder on whether an update, endorsement or different cover type is required as per applicable terms. Importance of Updating Vehicle Details Vehicle details are central to your motor policy. Information such as Registration number, engine number, chassis number, make, model, variant, fuel type and ownership details should be recorded correctly. If these details are incorrect, inspection, renewal, transfer formalities or claim review may require extra verification. Even a small mismatch in identification details can create avoidable issues because the insurer must confirm that the insured vehicle and the vehicle being reviewed are the same. How to Update Vehicle Details in Insurance Vehicle details should be updated whenever there is a change in ownership, registration, fuel type or any authorised modification. Follow the insurers official process to keep the policy record accurate. Conclusion Updating your address, usage and vehicle details is a simple but important part of managing motor insurance responsibly. These updates keep your records accurate and reduce confusion during renewal, communication or claim-related review. A short check of your policy after any major life or vehicle change can save unnecessary back-and-forth later. Clear information helps your insurer service the policy more smoothly as per applicable terms.

FIR against SP MP Iqra Hasan over protest at Saharanpur police station

SAHARANPUR (UP), May 22: Police here have registered a case against Samajwadi Party MP Iqra Hasan and several of her supporters for allegedly obstructing government work, blocking traffic, and violating prohibitory orders during a protest earlier this week, officials said on Friday. SP City Vyom Bindal said the FIR was lodged at Sadar Bazar police station on Thursday based on a complaint filed by sub-inspector Sanjay Kumar Sharma. Apart from Hasan, former state minister Mangeram Kashyap and 20 to 25 [] The post FIR against SP MP Iqra Hasan over protest at Saharanpur police station appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Two Students Killed As Bus Overturns On Amritsar-Pathankot National Highway

Chandigarh, May 22: A private bus overturned on the Amritsar-Pathankot national highway on Friday, leaving two students dead and five injured, police said. The deceased, both aged around 23, hailed from Jammu, Station House Officer Rajwant Kaur said. The deceased were students of a college in Punjab, she said, adding that around 10 students were among the passengers travelling in the bus. Five injured, including three who sustained head injuries, were shifted to a hospital in Gurdaspur, the officer said. [] The post Two Students Killed As Bus Overturns On Amritsar-Pathankot National Highway appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

India To Launch Smart Border Project Along Pak, BDesh Borders To Curb Infiltration: Amit Shah

NEW DELHI, May 22: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the government will launch a smart border project in the next year to make the 6,000 km fronts with Pakistan and Bangladesh impenetrable and ensure that the conspiracy to change the demography of the areas is defeated. Delivering the annual Rustamji Memorial lecture hosted by the Border Security Force (BSF) here, the minister also reiterated that the government will find each and every infiltrator from the country and [] The post India To Launch Smart Border Project Along Pak, BDesh Borders To Curb Infiltration: Amit Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Never Let Indias Head Bow: Amit Shah Salutes BSF, Outlines Massive Smart Border Plan Against Infiltration

New Delhi, May 22: Declaring a zero-tolerance policy toward cross-border infiltration, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday announced that the Centre will launch a comprehensive Smart Border project within the year to seal the nations borders and deport every illegal migrant. Addressing the Border Security Force (BSF) personnel at the BSF Investiture Ceremony 2026 at Vigyan Bhawan, Delhi, Shah asserted that illegal migration is a deliberate conspiracy to engineer artificial demographic shifts. He stated that the government will identify [] The post Never Let Indias Head Bow: Amit Shah Salutes BSF, Outlines Massive Smart Border Plan Against Infiltration appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Scientists uncover surprising health benefits of watermelon: Study

Studies suggest watermelon could be a hidden powerhouse for better health. Researchers found that people who eat watermelon tend to have higher-quality diets packed with more vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants while consuming less added sugar and saturated fat. Another study showed watermelon juice may help protect blood vessel function and support heart health. Watermelon has long been a summer favourite, but research suggests this refreshing fruit may offer benefits far beyond hydration. Studies published in Nutrients found that people who regularly eat watermelon tend to have healthier overall diets and may also support better heart and blood vessel function. Researchers say watermelon provides an impressive mix of nutrients, antioxidants, and naturally occurring compounds linked to cardiovascular and metabolic health. Its high water content and low calorie count also make it an easy way to add more fruit to your diet. Watermelon Linked to Better Diet QualityOne study examined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to compare the diets of watermelon eaters and non-consumers across the United States. The analysis found that both children and adults who consumed watermelon generally had higher-quality diets overall.According to the findings, watermelon consumers took in more dietary fiber, magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, vitamin A, lycopene, and other carotenoids. At the same time, they consumed lower amounts of added sugars and saturated fat. The study was originally published in Nutrients in 2022. That combination is notable because many Americans still struggle to meet recommended fruit intake goals. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommend between 1.5 and 2.5 cups of fruit daily, yet most adults and children consume only about half that amount.Compounds in Watermelon May Support Heart HealthA separate clinical trial from Louisiana State University explored whether watermelon juice could help protect blood vessel function during periods of elevated blood sugar. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study involved 18 healthy young adults who consumed watermelon juice daily for two weeks. Researchers focused on two naturally occurring watermelon compounds, L-citrulline and L-arginine, which are involved in nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide helps blood vessels relax and expand, an important part of healthy circulation and cardiovascular function. The study found evidence that watermelon juice supplementation helped maintain vascular function during hyperglycemia and influenced heart rate variability.We acknowledge that while the sample size was small (18 healthy young men and women) and more research is needed, this study adds to the current body of evidence supporting regular intake of watermelon for cardio-metabolic health. In addition to L-citrulline and L-arginine, watermelon is a rich source of antioxidants, vitamin C and lycopene all of which can help reduce oxidative stress and play a role in heart disease prevention, said Dr. Jack Losso, Ph.D., professor at Louisiana State Universitys School of Nutrition and Food Sciences. Follow Up Research Continues to Explore BenefitsSince those studies were published, additional reviews and meta-analyses have continued investigating watermelons role in vascular and metabolic health. Researchers have reported that watermelon consumption and L-citrulline supplementation may improve measures tied to blood vessel flexibility and circulation, including pulse wave velocity and endothelial function. Scientists are especially interested in watermelon because it is one of the richest natural food sources of L-citrulline. Recent reviews have highlighted the fruits potential role in supporting nitric oxide production, healthy blood flow, and cardiovascular function, although experts stress that larger long-term studies are still needed. Watermelon is also packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with reduced oxidative stress and potential heart health benefits. Red watermelon varieties tend to contain especially high levels of lycopene. A Hydrating, Low Calorie FruitBeyond the research buzz, watermelon remains a nutrient-dense fruit that is easy to enjoy year-round. A 2-cup serving contains only 80 calories and provides 25% of the daily value for vitamin C along with 8% of the daily value for vitamin B6. The fruit is also made up of about 92% water, making it a hydrating option during hot weather or after exercise. Whether served at a summer barbecue, blended into smoothies, or added to salads, watermelon offers a simple way to increase fruit intake while adding vitamins, antioxidants, and hydration to your diet. (ANI)

Centre Extends NCB Chief Anurag Gargs Tenure Till July Next Year

NEW DELHI, May 22: The Centre has extended the tenure of Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) chief Anurag Garg till July next year, according to a Personnel Ministry order. Garg, a 1993 batch Indian Police Service officer of Himachal Pradesh cadre, was appointed Director General of the NCB in September 2024. His tenure was to end on May 23 this year. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved extension in Gargs deputation tenure as DG, NCB, beyond May 23, 2026, [] The post Centre Extends NCB Chief Anurag Gargs Tenure Till July Next Year appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Trump cancels signing of Executive order on Artificial Intelligence regulation : Reports

WASHINGTON, May 22: US President Donald Trump cancelled the signing ceremony of his executive order on artificial intelligence regulation, as it would reportedly slow the industrys development in the United States, ABC News Senior White House Correspondent Selina Wang reported. Trump just called off the signing of his AI executive order hours before the Oval Office ceremony. The order was expected to allow the government to vet the most powerful AI models before public release. He scrapped it because [] The post Trump cancels signing of Executive order on Artificial Intelligence regulation : Reports appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Vedanta arm Talwandi Sabo Power faces Rs 127 cr penalty

NEW DELHI, May 22: Vedanta Ltd has said that its subsidiary Talwandi Sabo Power Ltd (TSPL) has been held liable to pay approximately Rs 127 crore, plus applicable late payment surcharge, to Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd (PSPCL) following a Supreme Court judgment. In a regulatory filing on Thursday, Vedanta said the Supreme Court has set aside the judgment passed by the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL), and has restored the order passed by the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission [] The post Vedanta arm Talwandi Sabo Power faces Rs 127 cr penalty appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Alembic gets USFDA nod for generic levothyroxine sodium tablets

NEW DELHI, May 22: Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd on Friday said it has received final approval from the US health regulator for its generic version of levothyroxine sodium tablet indicated as a replacement therapy for hypothyroidism. The approval by the US Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) is for the Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) of levothyroxine sodium tablets of strengths 25 mcg, 50 mcg, 75 mcg, 88 mcg, 100 mcg, 112 mcg, 125 mcg, 137 mcg, 150 mcg, 175 mcg, 200 [] The post Alembic gets USFDA nod for generic levothyroxine sodium tablets appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

LIC shares jump nearly 5 pc after Q4 earnings

NEW DELHI, May 22: Shares of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) on Friday climbed nearly 5 per cent after the firm posted a 23 per cent increase in net profit in the March quarter. The stock rallied 4.78 per cent to Rs 839 on the BSE. At the NSE, the stock jumped 4.84 per cent to Rs 839. LIC on Thursday posted a 23 per cent increase in net profit to Rs 23,420 crore in the March quarter, helped [] The post LIC shares jump nearly 5 pc after Q4 earnings appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Suzlon bags 195MW wind energy order from Sunsure Energy

NEW DELHI, May 22: Suzlon on Friday said it has secured a repeat order of 195 MW from Sunsure Energy, taking the total sales of its 3MW platform to nearly 9 GW. This milestone reflects strong and sustained market adoption of the Suzlon 3X platform, a company statement said. The order builds on the ongoing partnership between Suzlon and Sunsure Energy, bringing the cumulative partnership to nearly 300 MW across Maharashtra and Karnataka, and is expected to grow further. With [] The post Suzlon bags 195MW wind energy order from Sunsure Energy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Fake Challan Scams Targeting Used Car Transactions in UP: How to Spot and Avoid Them

Uttar Pradesh has one of the largest used car markets in India, with significant transaction volumes in cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra, Varanasi, and across hundreds of smaller towns connected by a road network that includes some of the countrys busiest national highways. This scale creates both opportunity and risk, and one of the more specific risks that has emerged in recent years is the fake challan scam, which has been reported with enough frequency in UP to warrant serious attention from anyone buying or selling a used car in the state. How the Scam Works Heres how the scam typically works. A buyer is in the process of negotiating a used car purchase from a private seller. At some point before or during the transaction, the buyer receives an SMS or WhatsApp message claiming to be from UP Traffic Police or a state enforcement agency, stating that the vehicle in question has a large pending challan, sometimes in the range of 15,000 to 50,000, and that immediate payment is required to avoid seizure or additional penalties. The message includes a link or a UPI ID for payment. In some variations, the scam targets the seller, a message arrives claiming they must clear challans before the vehicle can be transferred, with a fraudulent payment link provided for fast clearance. In either case, the money paid goes to a fraudster, not to any government authority, and the challan doesnt exist in the official system. Knowing how to identify a traffic challan scam notification from a genuine one, and understanding what a legitimate UP traffic challan verification actually looks like, is the practical protection this market needs. How to Spot and Verify Spotting these messages requires knowing a few things about how legitimate e-challan communications actually work. Authentic challan notifications in India are sent via officially registered government short codes, they dont come from personal mobile numbers, WhatsApp accounts, or generic email addresses. Payment links in genuine communications direct you to government portals (parivahan.gov.in, state traffic police websites with .gov.in domains), not to third-party payment apps or unfamiliar URLs. No legitimate challan authority asks for payment via direct UPI to a personal ID. The safest approach is to verify independently. If you receive any notification about a challan on a vehicle youre considering purchasing, check the traffic challan scam awareness resources and then verify the vehicles challan status directly through the official Parivahan portal or the states official traffic challan system. If the challan exists, youll find it there. If it doesnt appear on the official system, the message was fraudulent. Understanding the UP traffic challan ecosystem is useful for anyone transacting in the state. UP has genuine, active enforcement, the state has deployed cameras on NH-19, NH-27, the Agra-Lucknow Expressway, and the Yamuna Expressway, among others, and legitimate challans do get issued. The point is not that challans dont exist; its that verifying them through official channels takes the same two minutes as falling for a scam, and protects you completely. For buyers and sellers in UPs used car market, the general rule is straightforward: never make any payment related to challans through a link received in a message. Always navigate directly to the official portal yourself, look up the vehicle by registration number, and pay only through that system if dues are confirmed. The challan number, issuing authority, and payment receipt will all be visible and verifiable in the official system. Being alert to this specific scam type doesnt mean approaching every used car transaction with suspicion, it means bringing the same practical verification habits to the transaction that any informed buyer should already be using. The sophistication of these scams has increased. Some operate via convincing-looking WhatsApp messages with official-appearing graphics and even what appear to be challan case numbers. The case numbers are fabricated but look plausible enough to cause concern, particularly if the recipient is unfamiliar with what legitimate challan formats actually look like. Legitimate e-challans issued by UP traffic authorities include specific data fields, GPS coordinates of the violation, a photograph of the vehicle at the moment of violation, and the issuing officers identification, none of which appear in fake notifications. For buyers in UPs used car market, the best defence is a verification-first mindset. Any claim about a challan, regardless of how convincing the notification looks, should be verified through the official Parivahan portal or the UP traffic police website directly. Navigate there yourself, never through a link received in a message. If the challan exists in the official system, you will find it. If it doesnt appear there, it doesnt exist. Genuine challans issued against a vehicles registration in UP are also accessible through the national-level check tool, which provides a full history of violations linked to the registration number.

Pradhan Mantri, Mantri Pradhan must be held accountable: Jairam Ramesh alleges cover-up of NEET paper leak tragedy

New Delhi , May 22 (ANI): Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan must be held accountable for the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and its ongoing cover-up. He alleged that the central government and its ecosystem have been attempting to suppress evidence of widespread irregularities in examinations conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Ramesh further accused the Narendra Modi government of colluding with the paper leak mafia to suppress the truth.His remarks came after reported comments by NTA Director General Abhishek Singh, where he informed the Parliamentary Standing Committee that the NEET-UG 2026 paper was not leaked in full, and that only certain questions had surfaced prior to the examination. Since the NTA was formed in 2018, the Modi Government and its ecosystem have been colluding with the paper leak mafia to suppress the truth of rampant irregularities and fraud in NTA-conducted exams, Ramesh said in a post on X. He further questioned the NTAs claim that there was no full paper leak, arguing that the circulation of a guess paper containing questions that appeared in the exam itself amounted to a leak. Today we have learnt from media reports that the NTA Director General claimed yesterday to a Parliamentary Committee that the NEET-UG 2026 exam was not leaked. If true, this is scandalous and shockingly dishonest because it is clear that a guess paper which featured dozens of questions that appeared in the actual exam was circulating among students much before the exam date. If that is not a leak, what is? Why is the Modi Government trying to deny it now? he asked.Ramesh also accused the central government of failing to act on previous irregularities in NEET-UG 2024, claiming that similar hotspots of fraud had reappeared in the 2026 controversy. The Modi Government had previously tried to cover up the widespread irregularities that had emerged in NEET-UG 2024 as well. If it had faced up to the truth and taken action then, the NEET 2026 tragedy may have been avoided. The same hotspots of reported fraud which emerged in 2024 like Rajasthans Sikar have been implicated in the 2026 scandal as well, he said. He further cited concerns over alleged inconsistencies in investigations into other NTA-conducted exams, including UGC-NET 2024, questioning the credibility of ongoing probes by central agencies. In another episode of the same disturbing series, the CBI also filed a closure report alleging no irregularities in the UGC-NET exam of 2024 which had been cancelled by the NTA back then. When asked by a Delhi court to provide a written explanation for its closure report, the CBI has asked for more time. While the Court has thankfully pulled up the CBI for this delay, the CBIs actions inspire no confidence in the agencys motivation to do justice to its ongoing probes into NEET, Ramesh further wrote. Calling the NTA the National Trauma Agency for aspirants, the Congress leader alleged systemic failure across institutions under the Education Ministry.For the lakhs of aspiring youth of our country, the NTA has become the National Trauma Agency. The CBSE, NCERT, and other institutions of the Education Ministry (including Central Universities) are no better, he further wrote.He further targeted Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, saying, The Education Minister is presiding over a system in which professional excellence is at a discount and where ideological affinity commands a premium. Both the Pradhan Mantri and the Mantri Pradhan must be held accountable for this colossal tragedy and its ongoing cover-up.The remarks come amid escalating political tensions over the NEET-UG 2026 controversy, after NTA officials told the parliamentary panel that the paper was not leaked in full and that only certain questions had surfaced before the exam. According to sources, NTA DG Abhishek Singh and Higher Education Secretary Vineet Joshi told the committee on Thursday that several recommendations aimed at making the NEET examination process leakproof had already been implemented, while work on remaining reforms was underway. Sources said the agency maintained that the alleged leak did not originate from the NTA system and that the CBI was probing the circulation of leaked questions that led to the cancellation of the examination. The NTA also defended the cancellation decision as part of its zero-tolerance policy towards irregularities, arguing that even limited compromise of questions could undermine confidence in the examination process. The Parliamentary panel also questioned officials on measures being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future and discussed the proposed transition of NEET-UG to a computer-based testing system from next year, including issues related to infrastructure, test duration and examination frequency. Political tensions have intensified following the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2026 exam on May 12 after allegations of a coordinated paper leak. The exam, conducted on May 3 across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad, saw participation from over 22 lakh candidates. The re-examination is scheduled for June 21 under enhanced security measures mandated by the Union Education Ministry. (ANI)

TN Cabinet expansion: Shahjahan, Vanni Arasu sworn in as ministers

CHENNAI: AM Shahjahan and Vanni Arasu, legislators belonging to the IUML and VCK respectively were sworn in as ministers by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Friday in a simple ceremony held at the Lok Bhavan here. In the presence of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, Shahjahan who won from Papanasam Assembly constituency and Vanni Arasu, []

A Wild Success? Tracking a Decade of Rhino Reintroduction in Manas

Ten years of tracking reintroduced rhinos inManas National Parkof Assamhas revealed a promising story of resilience and adaptation. While the study shows encouraging signs of reproduction, it also highlights fascinating variations in breeding and movement patterns among different rhino groups. However, researchers warn that the job isnt over. To protect this growing population from the long-term risks of inbreeding,continued introductionsandsteadfast protectionremain the keys to a thriving, wild future in Assam. Mongabay India correspondentSneha Mahalereports The greater one-horned rhinoceros was [] The post A Wild Success? Tracking a Decade of Rhino Reintroduction in Manas appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

PM, Education Minister Must Be Held Accountable For Cover Up: Cong On NTA Claims On NEET Exam

NEW DELHI, May 22: The Congress on Friday said it was shocked over claims made by top NTA officials that the NEET exam paper was not leaked, and said both the Pradhan Mantri and the Mantri Pradhan must be held accountable for this cover-up. The Congress also said that the National Testing Agency (NTA) has become a National Trauma Agency and accused the government of colluding with the paper leak mafia to suppress the truth of irregularities and fraud. In [] The post PM, Education Minister Must Be Held Accountable For Cover Up: Cong On NTA Claims On NEET Exam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

The Road, the Rage and the Rickshaw

A Field Guide to Indian Drivers Nimit Suri nimitsuri150@gmail.com If my great-great-grandfather were to descend from heaven today, he would be pleasantly amused to discover that boxes on wheels have replaced the bullock carts and tangas of his time. His delight, however, would not last. One short ride through the modern Indian roads would be enough to turn his curiosity into exasperation, and his exasperation into prayer. He would witness the rich, the poor and the middle class converging in [] The post The Road, the Rage and the Rickshaw appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

SC To Hear Next Week Plea Against CBSEs Policy Making Three-Language Study Compulsory In Class 9

NEW DELHI, May 22: The Supreme Court on Friday said it would hear next week a plea challenging the CBSE policy which has made study of three languages, including at least two native Indian languages, compulsory for Class 9 students beginning July 1. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi mentioned the matter before a bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi. This is an urgent PIL. The petitioners are students, teachers and parents. They are [] The post SC To Hear Next Week Plea Against CBSEs Policy Making Three-Language Study Compulsory In Class 9 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

EMPLOYMENT (22-05-2026)

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EC Announces Rajya Sabha Polls For 24 Seats On June 18

NEW DELHI, May 22: The Election Commission on Friday announced polls for 24 Rajya Sabha seats on June 18. In a statement, the EC said the elections for the Rajya Sabha seats will be held in 10 states where the incumbents are retiring on different dates beginning June 21 to July 19. The Rajya Sabha elections will be held in four seats each in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Karnataka, three seats each in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, two seats in [] The post EC Announces Rajya Sabha Polls For 24 Seats On June 18 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

US, Iran are in intense indirect talks for drafting final agreement: Report

Tehran , May 22 : The United States and Iran are engaged in indirect talks aimed at developing a framework for a possible agreement, Irans ISNA News Agency reported.According to the report, the two sides are currently exchanging messages and draft texts. An Iranian official earlier told Al Jazeera that negotiators were very close to reaching an understanding. The report also said that intensive mediation efforts are underway, with Mohsin Naqvi currently in Iran to discuss the status of the Strait of Hormuz. However, Al Jazeera noted that it is still too early to determine whether a final agreement is within reach.The talks come at a critical juncture as the US has coughed up much of its advanced missile defence interceptors inventory after burning the candle at both ends for defending Israel using munitions as compared to Israel itself in its war with Iran, The Washington Post has learnt. According to US officials who spoke to The Washington Post under condition of anonymity on Thursday (local time), the imbalance in the weighing scale raises concerns about the USs commitment to global security. The United States launched more than 200 Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors to defend Israel along with more than 100 Standard Missile-3 and Standard Missile-6 interceptors fired from naval vessels in the eastern Mediterranean, emptying almost half of the Pentagons inventory. Israel, meanwhile, fired fewer than 100 of its Arrow interceptors and around 90 Davids Sling interceptors, some of which were used against less sophisticated projectiles fired by Iran-backed groups in Yemen and Lebanon. Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump said that Iran will not get to keep the enriched uranium.We get the highly enriched. We will get it. We dont need it; we dont want it. Well probably destroy it after we get it. But were not going to let them have it. The Iran conflict. Thatll end soon, very soon. And when it ends, your gasoline prices will go down lower than they were before. he said. (ANI)

Over 1.06 Lakh Hectares of Degraded Forest Land Restored in Jammu Kashmir Under CAMPA Since 2010-11

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has restored more than 1,06,023 hectares of degraded forest land and planted around 7.46 crore saplings under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) since 201011, officials informed at a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo. The Chief Secretary reviewed ongoing afforestation and ecological restoration programmes []

Had a fruitful meeting with council of ministers, says PM Modi

PM Modi said the discussions centred around policy reforms and governance initiatives that could improve public service delivery and strengthen economic growth

IAS Officer Posted Earlier in Jammu Kashmir Assigned Three Departments in Ladakh

SRINAGAR: IAS officer Nidhi Malik has been assigned the charge of Administrative Secretary for three departments in the Ladakh Administration, including Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, the Social and Tribal Welfare Department (including ICDS and ICPS), and the Civil Aviation Department. Malik, who has previously served in Jammu and Kashmir, was transferred from Delhi to []

Principal Sec DMRRR reviews ration distribution, extension of welfare schemes for migrants

Jammu, May 21: Principal Secretary Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRRR) Chandraker Bharti on Thursday reviewed the progress on implementation of the ration distribution in terms of the Special Relief Ration Scheme for Kashmiri/Jammu Migrants as well as extension of benefits of social sector/welfare schemes to eligible migrants, after integration of their ration cards on the national database. The meeting was attended by Director Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) Jammu, R.K Shavan; Relief & Rehabilitation Commissioner(M), J&K, Dr Arvind Karwani and senior officers from DMRRR, FCS&CA, Social Welfare Departments and National Informatics Centre. During the meeting, the Principal Secretary directed the concerned departments to take proactive steps to reach out to all households and ensure ration supply to all migrant beneficiaries who have enrolled for integration on the NFSA database, even if e-KYC formalities are pending/ in process. He asked the FCS&CA Department to provide free ration of April and May as a one-time exception during the transition period into the NFSA database to all such beneficiaries from the FPS dealers indicated by them in the NFSA application, and issue necessary order on same. The Principal Secretary also asked the officers of the Relief Organization to reach out to all such households that have still not lifted the ration despite the completion of e-KYC formalities and facilitate them. He asked the FCS&CA Department to explore the possibility of establishing a Ration ATM at Mini-Township Jagti, which houses more than 5,000 migrant families and Relief Organization shall identify and provide suitable space for the purpose. The Principal Secretary also called for conducting an extensive IEC campaign through print, electronic, and social media to make migrants aware that the integration of migrant ration cards into the NFSA database is purely a welfare-oriented governance reform aimed at inclusion of migrants into the mainstream welfare architecture, extension of social security benefits, digitization and modernization of records, transparency, and accountability in beneficiary management. He highlighted that the continuation and protection of all the existing relief provisions/guidelines/ entitlements available to Kashmiri/ Jammu Migrants is ensured. He also directed the officers of Social Welfare department to organise special camps in coordination with the Relief Organization in at migrant camps and prominent non-camp areas at Jammu to reach out to potential migrant beneficiaries of social sector/welfare schemes and facilitate them in filling various online applications for availing benefits of different social sector schemes like Old Age Pension, Widow Pension, Disability Pension, Marriage Assistance, Ayushman Bharat and various scholarships. He also asked them to organise a camp at Reasi for Jammu Migrants. During the meeting, it was informed that about 21,000 migrant ration cards have already been punched into the NFSA database, and the process of integrating about 5,000 migrant ration cards is in progress and around 50% of families have lifted ration so far under the new scheme. It was apprised that those who could not lift ration in the month of April are being provided two months free ration (April & May 2026) and those who received less ration due to any glitch in April or May will also be provided the remaining portion by the FCS&CA Department. The has repeatedly clarified that the earlier scale of ration distribution to the migrants registered under the relief category shall continue and that all relief ration card holders shall continue to receive 11 Kg free ration per person per month and 1 Kg sugar as per the extant scale of ration distribution. Besides, those registered with the Relief Organisation under the non-relief category (Pensioners, etc.) and categorized into the NPHH category will also receive 5 Kg ration on the Government-approved rates as per their entitlement under NFSA on cost basis. Social Welfare Department apprised the meeting that 776 families have so far availed the benefit of various social sector schemes after the integration of migrant ration cards into the NFSA database. Pertinent to mention that migrants could not earlier avail the benefits of these schemes due to their ration cards being non-digitized and not integrated into the national database.

NIT Sgr students launch startup to digitize Indias labour chowks

Srinagar, May 21: In an attempt to bring Indias unorganised construction labour sector online, two fourth-year students of National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar have launched a startup that connects labourers, contractors and customers through a digital platform modeled around traditional labour chowks. The startup, BigBrick, founded by Saurabh Kumar from the Civil Engineering Department and Aryan Kumar from the Mechanical Engineering Department, is being described as Indias first digital platform focused exclusively on labour chowks and construction workforce management. According to the founders, BigBrick has already onboarded more than 2,500 construction workers across Srinagar, Jammu, and Katra, creating direct connections between workers, contractors, and customers. At a time when thousands of labourers across the country continue to depend on roadside labour markets for daily work, the startup aims to bring transparency, accessibility, and organized hiring into the sector through digital intervention. So far, the startup has generated revenue worth 11 lakh and recently received a funding offer at a valuation of 3 crore from Mumbai based company, second officer of 40 lakh by another venture, marking a rare success story emerging from a student-led venture in Kashmir. BigBrick has also been incubated and funded by the NewGen IEDC, University of Kashmir, and was awarded the Best Startup Idea during the IDE Bootcamp for its innovation and market potential. The core team behind the venture also includes Yashas Naidu, Vivek Kumar, Munmun Naresh, Raj Kumar & Vijay Kumar, who played a key role in scaling operations and expanding worker outreach. In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia congratulated the students for their achievement and said Institute is committed to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among young minds. This achievement reflects the innovative spirit and entrepreneurial potential of our students. Startups like BigBrick demonstrate how technology can be used to address real societal and economic challenges, he said. Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman also appreciated the initiative and said such success stories inspire other students to think beyond conventional career paths. It is encouraging to see our students building impactful ventures with real-world applications. Such initiatives not only create employment opportunities but also strengthen the startup ecosystem of the region, he said. Saurabh Kumar, Co-Founder of BigBrick said the aim of the startup is to organize the unorganized labour sector through technology and create a transparent system where workers can access employment opportunities with dignity. Construction workers are the backbone of infrastructure development, yet a majority of them still depend on informal systems for employment. Through BigBrick, we wanted to build a reliable platform that directly connects workers with contractors and customers, he added. Another, Co-Founder, Aryan Kumar said that startup was born out of the need to solve real challenges faced by daily wage workers in the construction sector. We observed that thousands of skilled labourers still depend on informal roadside hiring systems despite the rapid growth of the digital economy. BigBrick is our effort to bridge that gap by creating a reliable and accessible platform for both workers and contractors, he said.

From blacksmiths forge to Kashmir tourism: The legacy behind Ahanger HOBO

Dont lie. Be a man of your word. Do good and forget. Mohammad Sidiq Ahanger, Blacksmith, Father Every brand has a name. But very few brands carry a name the way Ahanger HOBO does, as a tribute, a promise, and a legacy all at once. This is the story behind that name. A Father Who Shaped Iron Mohammad Sidiq Ahanger served in the Central Job before setting up his own forge. He was a blacksmith of skill. People waited months, sometimes years for something made by his hands, because what came from that forge could not be found anywhere else. The Son Who Watched His son, Abid Sidiq Ahanger, grew up sitting in the corner of that workshop. He watched his father shape iron for hours. The Name That Carries Everything After years of working in different industries, Abid made the decision that would define the rest of his life: he would build something of his own. He entered tourism Kashmirs most beautiful, most misunderstood, most emotionally powerful industry. And when it came time to name his company, the answer was immediate. Ahanger HOBO Ahanger is the family name and in Kashmiri tradition, it means blacksmith. It is a name built at a forge, passed down through generations of people who shaped things with their hands and their honesty. HOBO is a word for someone always on the move a wanderer, a traveller, someone drawn to the open road. It captures the spirit of every guest who arrives in Kashmir with curiosity and leaves with something they did not expect: a feeling they cannot quite name but never forget. Look closer and you will find HO and BO a quiet shortform for Holiday Bookings, built right into the heart of the name. The logo is a shikara is the most recognisable image of Kashmir. It is also, quietly, a symbol of what Ahanger HOBO believes travel should be: unhurried, beautiful, and deeply personal. What We Actually Do Ahanger HOBO was built on a simple insight: the biggest barrier keeping travellers away from Kashmir was not a lack of interest. It was fear. Abid decided that his job.His real job was to replace that fear with trust. He began offering free travel consultations. He still does. He calls himself a Travel Artist, because photography taught him to see Kashmir differently not as a destination to be packaged and sold, but as a composition of light, people, food, water, and warmth that deserves to be experienced with full attention. He introduced practices that had never been done systematically in the valley before: trained drivers who know how to make every guest feel safe and genuinely welcomed, flowers and sweets for every arriving visitor as a gesture of Kashmiriyatthe ancient tradition of warm-hearted hospitality that this land has offered to travellers for centuries, personal feedback taken after every tour, and acted upon every single time. The result: not one guest complaint. Ever. That is not a marketing claim. That is a craftsmans standard, inherited directly from a father who never once did inferior work. We Sell Memories Every element of Ahanger HOBO the name, the logo, the way his father once built at the forge by hand, with care, without cutting corners. The tagline arrived last, after everything else was already in place. Three words that say everything: We Sell Memories. Not hotel rooms. Not taxi rides. Not tour packages. Memories the kind that stay with a person long after the flight home, the kind they describe to friends and family for years, the kind that make Kashmir feel not like a place visited once but like a place that belongs to them. The Legacy Continues Mohammad Sidiq Ahanger passed away in December 2024. But the three lines he lived by the ones that echo in his sons mind every single day are present in every guest interaction, every trained driver, every bouquet offered at arrival, every memory carefully delivered. Dont lie. Be a man of your word. Do good and forget. A blacksmiths discipline. A travellers spirit. A sons promise. That is Ahanger HOBO.

CS inaugurates Governance & Policy Analysis Centre at IUST

Lauds universitys academic and research initiatives Awantipora, May 21: Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir on Thursday visited Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), where he inaugurated the Centre for Good Governance & Policy Analysis (CGG&PA) during a series of engagements aimed at strengthening policy research, governance innovation, and institutional collaboration. During the visit, the Chief Secretary toured Campus-I and Campus-III of the university and inspected various laboratories and academic facilities. He also interacted with officers and faculty members. The Chief Secretary appreciated the efforts of the faculty and staff in the growth and academic advancement of the university, particularly its introduction of high-end and emerging programmes in frontier sciences and artificial intelligence in line with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He also lauded the universitys initiatives in strengthening industry linkages, promoting research, and fostering innovation-driven academic collaborations. Congratulating Prof. Shakil A Romshoo Vice Chancellor IUST and his team for the achievements made by IUST, he expressed confidence that the Centre for Good Governance & Policy Analysis would further strengthen the universitys contribution towards policy research and institutional development. He remarked that IUST possesses immense potential to contribute towards improving ease of living for the people through meaningful collaborations with the government and national-level institutions. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Romshoo highlighted the universitys achievements and outlined its vision for academic excellence, innovation, and public engagement. He stated that IUST has emerged as an active contributor to several flagship national missions through its work in sustainability, emerging technologies, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and community development. He also thanked the Government for its continued support, which, he said, has enabled the university to strengthen its academic and research ecosystem and expand its engagement with society and industry. Earlier, Prof. G. N. Itoo, Director, Centre for Good Governance & Policy Analysis while welcoming the dignitaries, said that the Centre would serve as an important platform for promoting evidence-based policymaking, interdisciplinary research, and meaningful collaboration between academia, government institutions, and society to address contemporary governance and developmental challenges. A documentary showcasing the universitys academic, research, innovation, and outreach initiatives was also screened. The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks presented by Prof. Shameem Ahmad Shah, Registrar IUST who expressed gratitude to the Chief Secretary for his visit and valuable insights on governance, policy innovation, and institutional development. The Chief Guest also planted a tree on the university campus as part of the institutions environmental sustainability initiatives.

Div Com Kashmir reviews preparations for SANJY-2026

Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg chaired a high-level meeting to review the preparedness for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY-2026). The meeting was attended by the Deputy Commissioners of Anantnag, Srinagar, Ganderbal and Bandipora, Commissioner SMC, besides Heads of Departments from Rural Sanitation, ULB, Health, FCS&CA, BEACON, KPDCL, PHE, R&B, Animal Husbandry and Labour Departments. Representatives from telecom service providers including BSNL, Jio, Airtel and G-Max were also present, said a press release. Reviewing the registration process of service providers, the Divisional Commissioner emphasized on expediting registrations to meet the target of 28,000 service providers besides ponies. He directed concerned authorities to ensure timely generation of RFID cards for all registered service providers by May 30. The Divisional Commissioner also reviewed the development of pony stands and was informed that essential infrastructure works including fencing and development of sheds has already been completed. He further instructed officials to conduct health check-ups of ponies and ensure adequate availability of fodder along the yatra routes. Taking stock of telecom connectivity and bandwidth availability at base camps and along the yatra axes up to the Holy Cave, the Divisional Commissioner directed telecom companies to ensure uninterrupted and efficient network services during the pilgrimage period. Chief Engineer KPDCL was asked to provide uninterrupted power supply to telecom installations. The meeting also reviewed snow clearance operations, construction of gabion and breast walls, and ongoing repair works along the yatra tracks. Deputy Commissioners were directed to personally inspect the repair and maintenance works being undertaken along the axes. To facilitate smooth movement and convenience of pilgrims, the Divisional Commissioner called for augmentation of staff at yatri registration counters. He also instructed rationalization of registration counters across the three districts in view of the direct railway connectivity to Srinagar. Regarding the installation of tents at base camps, the Divisional Commissioner reviewed the allotment process and directed concerned committees to conduct mandatory fire safety audits. Besides, he reviewed the progress of developmental works being executed by the PHE, KPDCL, R&B, I&FC, SDA, PDA, Tourism Department, ULB and other allied agencies. Preparations related to SDRF, Information Department, Health Services, Transport Department, FCS&CA, sanitation and other essential services were also comprehensively reviewed during the meeting.

Trump says hes sending 5,000 more troops to Poland, stirring confusion about US presence in Europe

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Thursday said the US will send an additional 5,000 troops to Poland, stirring confusion following weeks of changing statements from Trump and his administration about reducing not increasing the American military footprint in Europe. The Trump administration has said it was reducing levels in Europe by about 5,000 []

Mental Disorders Leading Cause Of Disability, Surpassing Cardiovascular Disease, Cancer: Study

NEW DELHI, May 22: The worlds burden of mental disorders have more than doubled since 1990, and they are now the leading cause of disability globally, overtaking cardiovascular disease, cancer and musculoskeletal conditions, according to a new study published in The Lancet journal. Researchers from The University of Queensland and Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research (QCMHR) in Australia and the US University of Washington found that nearly 1.2 billion people worldwide were living with a mental disorder in 2023, [] The post Mental Disorders Leading Cause Of Disability, Surpassing Cardiovascular Disease, Cancer: Study appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Pathankot Man Sends Live Feed Of Forces Movement To Pakistan-Based Handlers; Arrested

Chandigarh/Pathankot, May 21: A resident of Punjabs Pathankot was arrested on charges of spying for Pakistan-based handlers, police said on Thursday. Preliminary investigation revealed that Baljit Singh, a resident of Chakk Dhariwal village, had installed a CCTV camera at a shop located near a bridge on the National Highway-44 to allegedly keep an eye on the movement of the army and paramilitary forces, police said, adding that he was transmitting the live feed to Pakistan-based handlers. During questioning, the accused [] The post Pathankot Man Sends Live Feed Of Forces Movement To Pakistan-Based Handlers; Arrested appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

LG Manoj Sinha lays foundation stone of Akshaya Patra's Centralised Mid-Day Meal kitchen in Katra

Jammu, May 21:The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, on Thursday laid the foundation stone of Akshaya Patras centralised kitchen facility in Katra. Once operational, this facility will provide 5000 nutritious meals to school children every day. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor, as per an official statement, also spoke about Akshaya Patras future projects in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, including upcoming kitchen facility in Jammu. I urged stronger collaboration between Government and Social Organisations to empower younger generation. We must ensure that school children receive balanced, nourishing meals. Every child deserves access to healthy food and we need to make sure no child is left behind, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor spoke on legacy in ordinary life emphasising that it rests on 3 questions - what are we creating, what are we preserving, and what will we hand over to future generations? He said we must add another question to that list: what are we feeding our children? He further observed that nutrition of our young generation will shape our future. The Lieutenant Governor stated that a hungry child cannot learn, and a school that cannot feed its children cannot honestly create equal opportunities for progress. He said that decades of global research and their outcomes have shown that nutrition and education are not separate things; education rests on the foundation of good nutrition. Children who eat balanced, nutritious meals concentrate better, retain information more effectively, and participate more actively in class. Protein, vitamins, and a balanced diet supply the basic energy for thinking and understanding of a child. I want every school in Jammu Kashmir to remember, when we provide nutritious meals in schools, we are not merely filling stomachs but we are shaping future thinking. The next generation is not just our future but they are the living expression of the dream and aspiration we wish to build as a nation. Their education, health, and confidence are a shared pledge and a collective responsibility of society. The values, knowledge, and faith we instill in children today will shape Jammu Kashmirs and Indias decades to come, the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor applauded self-less service of Akshay Patra, which is among the world's largest NGOs in the school meal sector, currently serving over 20 lakh children across 16 states and 3 UTs. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also served the meal to the school students. Shri Bharatarshabha Dasa, National President & Trustee, The Akshaya Patra Foundation; Shri Baldev Raj Sharma, Member of Legislative Assembly, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi; Shri Kuldeep Raj Dubey, Member of Legislative Assembly from Reasi; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Shri Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner/Secretary School Education Department; Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range; Shri Kumar Abhishek, Deputy Commissioner, Reasi; Shri Uday C. Rege from Savita Oil Technologies; senior officials, members of Akshaya Patra Foundation and students in large number attended the ceremony.

Gujarat Titans knock CSK out of IPL play-off race with 89-run victory

AHMEDABAD, May 21: Gujarat Titans bankable top order laid the groundwork for a dominating 89-run win over Chennai Super Kings here on Thursday, taking them closer to a top-two qualification for the Indian Premier League play-offs. Shubman Gill (64 off 37) and Sai Sudharsan (84 off 53) added to their remarkable consistency as an opening pair with a record seventh century partnership, fuelling Gujarat Titans to 229 for four on a true batting surface. Jos Buttler (57 not out off [] The post Gujarat Titans knock CSK out of IPL play-off race with 89-run victory appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Trump-Xi summit and its impact

Harsha Kakar kakarharsha@gmail.com The much-awaited summit between the leaders of the worlds two most powerful nations has concluded. Trumps team arrived in China under conditions of a strict digital lockdown, with cell phones and lap tops left behind due to fears of state-level surveillance, hacking and data interception. Members of the team used burner phones or devices with limited temporary data. While returning, every single Chinese gift, including lapel pins, souvenirs, burner phones etc were dumped in a dustbin prior [] The post Trump-Xi summit and its impact appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Indriya launches Customers Own Gold Exchange Programme

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 21: As conversations around responsible gold consumption in the country gain momentum, Indriya, Aditya Birla Jewellery, today launched its Customers Own Gold Exchange Programme. Indriya is the first jeweller to offer 100% value on old gold of any carat, irrespective of where it was purchased, enabling customers to transform it into exquisitely designed statement pieces. At Indriya, precision meets craftsmanship. With advanced instruments ensuring accurate gold evaluation and open karigar rooms, customers can witness the entire [] The post Indriya launches Customers Own Gold Exchange Programme appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Impact of West Asia War on Indias Energy Supply

Vijay Hashia iamvhashia@gmail.com The ramifications of West Asia war are manifold, impacting Indian households, industries, transport networks, and agricultural supply chains. Much of Indias imported energy passes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the worlds most vital maritime chokepoints. Around 40-45% of Indias crude oil, 80-85% of LPG and 50% LNG imports normally pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The war has disrupted the route and as such Indias economy feels the pressure. This has created a serious supply [] The post Impact of West Asia War on Indias Energy Supply appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

AM Hyundai organizes business meet with Taxi Association

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 21: Aimed to bring together the leading fleet owners and Taxi Operators a business meet organized by the AM Hyundai, one of the leading Hyundai dealership groups in Jammu & Kashmir and a part of the AM Group, was held here today. The event served as a platform to showcase Hyundais growing range of vehicles tailored for the commercial mobility segment and to strengthen relationships with the regions transport community. The event witnessed the gracious presence [] The post AM Hyundai organizes business meet with Taxi Association appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Heritage Cafeteria-cum-Library opens at Mubarak Mandi

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 21: The Heritage Cafeteria Cum Restaurant with Library at the historic Mubarak Mandi complex in Jammu opened today, marking a significant step towards transforming the iconic Dogra heritage site into a major cultural and tourism destination. MLA Jammu East, Yudhvir Sethi; Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar and Chief Executive Officer of Jammu Smart City Limited and Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation, Dr. Devansh Yadav were present on the occasion. Developed under the Jammu Smart City Limited initiative, [] The post Heritage Cafeteria-cum-Library opens at Mubarak Mandi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Child Protection: A collective responsibility for a safer future

Mohammad Hanief m.hanief@gmail.com Children are the foundation of every society and the hope of every nation. Their safety, education, emotional well-being, and healthy development determine the future strength and progress of a community. A society that protects its children protects its future; a society that neglects them risks moral, social, and human decline. In Jammu and Kashmir, where generations have lived through social uncertainty, economic challenges, and changing cultural realities, the issue of child protection has become more important than [] The post Child Protection: A collective responsibility for a safer future appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

J&K Bank partners with HD Construction to ease equipment financing

Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, May 21: As part of its commitment to support infrastructure-led development through institutional finance, J&K Bank today entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HD Construction Equipment India Pvt. Ltd. to facilitate customised financing solutions for Hyundai excavators and wheel loaders under the Banks Construction Equipment Finance Scheme. The partnership aims to facilitate easier access to finance for customers intending to procure construction and mining equipment manufactured and marketed by HD Construction Equipment India Pvt. Ltd. [] The post J&K Bank partners with HD Construction to ease equipment financing appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Dr Jitendra launches UMMID programme for Rare Genetic Diseases, emphasises timely interventions

Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, May 21: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Ministers Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today dedicated the UMMID (Unique Methods of Management of Inherited Disorders) Programme for Rare Genetic Disorders/ Diseases to the Nation and said India is steadily entering an era where healthcare, diagnosis and treatment will increasingly become genome-based, precision-driven and individualized according [] The post Dr Jitendra launches UMMID programme for Rare Genetic Diseases, emphasises timely interventions appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Cyprus looking forward to realising infinite opportunities in Indo-EU trade: Prez

MUMBAI, May 21 : Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides on Thursday said India and the European Union offer infinite opportunities on the trade and economic front. The island nation, which is pitching itself as a gateway for Indian companies to expand into the EU market, looks forward to realising these opportunities, Christodoulides said at an event here. India is one of the most dynamic economies in the world. Europe remains one of the worlds largest and most stable markets, the visiting [] The post Cyprus looking forward to realising infinite opportunities in Indo-EU trade: Prez appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

India-US trade deal likely within weeks or months, says Envoy Sergio Gor

NEW DELHI, May 21: The interim trade agreement between India and the United States is set to be finalised, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said, adding that he is confident the trade deal will be concluded in the coming weeks or months, bringing stability and opportunities for both sides. Both sides are looking to finalise the details of a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) that will truly unlock the potential of our bilateral relationship by expanding market access, reducing barriers, [] The post India-US trade deal likely within weeks or months, says Envoy Sergio Gor appeared first on Daily Excelsior .