Crime Branch Registers Case in Alleged JK Grameen Bank Loan Fraud
SRINAGAR: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Crime Branch, Jammu, has registered a criminal case in connection with alleged financial irregularities and fraudulent loan transactions at two branches of the Jammu and Kashmir Grameen Bank. The case was registered under Sections 420 and 120-B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) following complaints forwarded through []
Police Debunk Fake Baramulla Terror Attack Rumours, File FIR Against Misinformation
Srinagar; Baramulla Police on Sunday dismissed as false and fabricated social media claims that terrorists had attacked a police station in the town, opened fire on government offices, and that the Chief Minister had proposed cancelling the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. In a handout, the police said that no such incident has taken place in []
Budgam, June 29:Budgam Police has registered FIR in connection with the incident that took place at Hardpanzoo involving followers of different groups of the Shia community. Investigation into the matter is underway, and all those found responsible for instigating or participating in any unlawful activity will be identified and proceeded against strictly in accordance with law. Budgam Police assures the public that the investigation will be conducted in a fair, impartial, and professional manner. Every aspect of the incident is being examined on the basis of evidence, and no individual found culpable will be spared, irrespective of affiliation. Police have also taken note of misleading and unverified content being circulated on social media regarding the incident. Such misinformation has the potential to create unnecessary panic, disturb public order, and undermine communal harmony. The public is urged to exercise restraint and refrain from creating, sharing, or forwarding rumours, unverified claims, or inflammatory content on any platform. Citizens are advised to rely only on information disseminated through official sources. Budgam Police is closely monitoring social media activity, and any individual found creating, circulating, or amplifying false or provocative content with the intent to mislead the public or disrupt peace will face stringent legal action under the relevant provisions of law. Budgam Police appeals to all sections of society to maintain peace, uphold communal harmony, and cooperate with the investigation. The District Police remains committed to ensuring justice through a transparent, impartial, and lawful investigation while taking firm action against anyone attempting to disturb public order.
Become ambassadors of drug-free J&K: LG to youth
Launches 'Mulaqaat' to strengthen social bonds, communal harmony Srinagar, Jun 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sundaycalled upon the youth to become ambassadors of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir. The LG reiterated his commitment todismantlethe entire drug ecosystem while ensuring that affected youth receive every possible opportunity for treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration into the mainstream. Sinha interacted with the volunteers of the Save Youth Save Future Foundation at Lok Bhavan,Srinagar, commending their dedicated community outreach and social initiatives and urgingthem to continue spreading awareness in their localities to build a prosperous and healthy society. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor launched Mulaqaat, an initiative of the Save Youth Save Future Foundation aimed at bringing together people from different communities to interact, share their memories, experiences, traditions, and cultural heritage. The initiative seeks to strengthen social bonds, promote communal harmony, and foster mutual understanding among diverse sections of society. During the interaction, members of the Save Youth Save Future Foundation expressed their gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor for spearheading the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan and lauded the stringent action taken by the Civil Administration and J&K Police against drug peddlers and those involved in the narcotics trade. The event was attended by Wajahat Farooq Bhat, Chairman of the Save Youth Save Future Foundation; Anika Nazir, Women's Wing Head; Mudasir Ahmed Dar, South Kashmir Zonal President; and other team members of the Foundation.
Kashmirs Fur & Leather Man chases global dream with unique products
Mentored by JKEDI, Tahir Ahmad Kalwal keeps traditional craft alive through handmade winter items, develops infrastructure to cater to international demand Srinagar, Jun 28: The whir of stitching machines and the faint smell of processed leather hang in the air at a quiet workshop in Soura, on the outskirts of Srinagar. This is where Tahir Ahmad Kalwal is quietly fighting to keep Kashmir's age-old fur and leather craft from fading away. Kalwal, a craftsman, entrepreneur andemployer whohas carved a niche for himself in the world of fur and leather products through his venture, Al Hamdan Crafts Private Ltd. Known among traders and customers as Kashmirs fur and leather man, Kalwal has spent years building a business that today supplies handcrafted products to markets across India. From fur jackets, leather coats and traditional caps to gloves, wallets, bags, rugs, mufflers, footwear and winter accessories, his products reflect a blend of Kashmiri craftsmanship and contemporary fashion. Inside his unit in Soura, local artisans carefully cut, stitch and shape products that eventually find buyers in major cities across the country. For Kalwal, however, the business is about much more than commerce. This craft is part of our heritage.Iwant to preserve it while also creating employment for local youth, he said. His enterprise currently provides livelihood opportunities to several locals associated with production, tailoring and finishing work. He hopes to employ many more oncethe infrastructure of his unitis upgraded to meet international demands. Kalwal says the demand for Kashmiri fur and leather productscontinues to remainstrong, especially during the winter season and festive periods. During Christmas Eve and peak winter months, the demand rises sharply, Kalwal said, adding that customers from different parts of India place bulk orders for winter wear and decorative items. While the domestic market continues to sustain his business, Kalwal has set his sights on international markets as well.Asked whether there is demand abroad, Tahir said the response has been encouraging and thathe is now working to buildthe capacity needed to meet global standards. With the support and mentorship ofJ&K Entrepreneur Development Institute (J&K EDI) ,I am trying my best to develop infrastructure so we can cater to international demand in the future, he said. However, the journey has not been without challenges. According to him, restrictions and bans related to the use of wild animal skins have affected traditional businesses linked to the sector. Yet he believes the industry still has vast untapped potential through ethical and legal alternatives such as sheep wool, processed leather and other permitted materials. There are difficulties, but there is still huge scope in sheep wool and other products. People continue to value handmade Kashmiri winter products, Kalwal said. Despite market competition and infrastructural constraints, Kalwal remains optimistic. His dream is to transform Al Hamdan Crafts into a recognised international brand rooted in Kashmiri identity and craftsmanship. At a time when many traditional crafts are struggling to survive under the pressure of machine-made products and changing consumer habits, entrepreneurs like Kalwal are attempting to give heritage industries a modern direction one stitch at a time.
SED invites suggestions on proposed school transfer policy
Priority for difficult areas, disability, award-winning teachers Srinagar, Jun 28: The School Education Department (SED) has placed its Draft Transfer Policy 2026 in the public domain and invited comments, suggestions and objections from stakeholders and the general public within 15 days. The proposed policy aims to bring greater transparency, fairness and accountability to the transfer and posting process of teaching and administrative staff across J&K. According to the draft, the policy will cover teachers, masters, lecturers, headmasters, principals, Zonal Education Officers and Chief Education Officers serving under the department. An online transfer portal will be used for processing transfers, while a digital database of employees' service records, posting history and tenure details will also be maintained. The department has proposed a classification of schools into five zones based on accessibility and distance from district headquarters. Employees posted in difficult and inaccessible areas will be rotated after completing fixed tenures. Staff serving in Zone V areas, identified as the most challenging locations, will receive priority consideration for postings in other areas after completion of their prescribed tenure. The draft also proposes an annual transfer schedule. Vacancy details are expected to be published in April, applications invited in May, while transfer orders are proposed to be issued between June and July before the start of the new academic session. However, transfers during the academic year may still be carried out in exceptional circumstances and administrative exigencies. A major feature of the policy is the introduction of a Transfer Assessment Matrix, a point-based system that will determine transfer priorities. Additional points have been proposed for service in difficult areas, age, disability, serious illness, government employee spouses, award winning teachers and employees nearing retirement. The draft provides special provisions for government employee couples, persons with benchmark disabilities, widows, divorcees, single parents and employees facing serious medical or security related issues. It also proposes compassionate and priority transfers in deserving cases supported by documentary evidence. The department has further proposed a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism at institutional, district and Union Territory levels to address complaints arising from transfer decisions. Representations are proposed to be disposed of within 15 days wherever possible. Officials said the proposed policy is intended to ensure equitable distribution of staff, improve educational administration and strengthen academic functioning across schools in J&K while keeping students' interests at the centre of transfer related decisions.
LG extends Kabir Jayanti greetings
Calls Sant Kabir Das eternal beacon of wisdom Srinagar, Jun 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has extended his heartiest greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Sant Kabir Das Ji's Jayanti, which will be celebrated on Monday. In a message, the Lieutenant Governor said: On the auspicious occasion of Sant Kabir Das Ji Jayanti, I extend my heartiest greetings and good wishes to all. Sant Kabir Das Ji remains an eternal beacon of wisdom, illuminating the path of humanity. His timeless message of universal oneness, harmony, and social justice continues to inspire across generations. On this sacred day, let us internalize his teachings and rededicate ourselves to serving humanity with selflessness, devotion, and compassion.
Chief Election Commissioner arrives in Sgr on 3-day visit
Srinagar, Jun 28: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, Gyanesh Kumar, arrived in Srinagar on Sunday for a three-day official visit to Jammu and Kashmir, aimed at engaging with voters, electoral stakeholders, and field-level election machinery, besides reviewing electoral initiatives being carried out at the grassroots level. The CEC was warmly received upon his arrival at Sheikh ul Alam International Airport by Chief Electoral Officer, J&K, Sanjeev Verma, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Amir, and other senior officers from the administration and Election Department. Speaking to media persons at the airport, Kumar said that during his visit, he wouldbe interactingwith voters across the beautiful valleys of Jammu and Kashmir,with a special focus on strengthening the connectwith grassroots-level functionaries. I will be interacting with the voters across the beautiful valleys of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly with the grassroots-level Booth Level Officers of Budgam district, who serve as the cornerstone of the Election Commission, he said. The CEC will hold an interaction with voters, BLOs, and other stakeholders of Budgam district on Monday morning. The visit is part of the Election Commission of India's continued efforts to strengthen its engagement with voters and electoral stakeholders, enhance field-level preparedness, and promote democratic participation and awareness.
This years Yatra to surpass previous success
Srinagar, Jun 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday visited Baltal with senior officers and took stock of health, lodging, and other pilgrim-centric facilities at the Base Camp, interacting with service providers and officials and directing them to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness, upkeep, and pilgrim-service management. The Lieutenant Governor also visited the Baltal Base Camp Hospital, where he inspected the healthcare infrastructure, including wards, laboratories, emergency facilities, and patient care arrangements. He interacted with doctors, paramedical staff, and healthcare workers, appreciating their commitment and directing them to ensure round-the-clock availability of quality medical services, adequate medicines, emergency equipment, and specialist care for the pilgrims throughout the Yatra. Interacting with media persons, the Lieutenant Governor said: Preparations for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra have been underway for the past several months with the joint efforts of the Shrine Board, the administration, Government of India, and all concerned departments. Comprehensive security and other arrangements are in place. I am hopeful this year's Yatra will surpass the success of the previous years. The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by KN Rai, Member, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board; DGP Nalin Prabhat; Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and CEO Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg; Rahul Yadav, Managing Director JKPDCL and Nodal Officer for Baltal Axis; Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore; and other senior officials.
Clean, zero-landfill Yatra is collective responsibility: Sinha
Launches new website, anthem, logo, mascot for SANJY 2026 Srinagar, Jun 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday launched the Directorate of Rural Sanitation's ShubhamShivam campaign at Baltal base camp, along with a slew of eco-innovations, including the new website, pilgrimage anthem, logo, mascot, Trayambakam mobile application, Swaha utensil bank, and Amarnath Seva Cafe. He described the campaign as a massive step to achieve a sustainable, clean, and zero-landfill Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. The true backbone of this initiative is our incredible sanitation team. I am grateful for Karmyogi volunteers, whose relentless dedication will keep the base camp andboth thetracks clean in the days ahead. They are the real heroes turning our zero-waste vision into reality, preserving the environment and the profound spiritual dignity of the Shri Amarnath Ji pilgrimage, he said. The LG highlighted several innovative initiatives: the Trayambakam mobile application, a simple and intuitive tool through which any pilgrim can send a photo of waste or litter at a location and ensure immediate action; the Swaha utensil bank, where steel plates and cups are used against a small security deposit, conveying that convenience and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand; and the Amarnath Seva Cafe, where exchanging collected plastic for tea and snacks signals that true devotion to Baba Barfani manifests through active participation in keeping the pilgrimage clean. The Lieutenant Governoralsoannounced the regulatory framework, including four-way segregation, a complete ban on single-use plastic, and prescribed sanitation standards for each langar and camp to lay a strong foundation for environmental protection. Sinha said the Directorate of Rural Sanitation's official logo,featuringLord Shiva and 34 tridents arranged around him, reminds us that protecting this holy land and its environment is our shared duty. The pilgrimage anthem 'Swachhta Dharma Hamara' will surely resonate in pilgrims' hearts in the same way as Baba's blessing and the echo of these mountains remain with them long after the journey ends, he said. The Lieutenant Governor said that all innovative initiatives of the Directorate of Rural Sanitation rest on devotion and discipline, and they must be carried out conscientiously and responsibly by every stakeholder. A clean, sustainable, zero-landfill Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is a firm declaration that, despite the harshest geographical conditions, ensuring cleanliness is our collective responsibility, he said, extending his best wishes to thousands of workers who will operate on these difficult routes in the coming days. The launch ceremony was attended by K.N. Rai, Member, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board; DGP Nalin Prabhat; Special DG Coordination S.J.M. Gillani; Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and CEO Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg; Managing Director JKPDCL and Nodal Officer for Baltal Axis Rahul Yadav; IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdi; Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore; DG Rural Sanitation Anoo Malhotra; and other senior officials.
Safe, comfortable, well-organised Yatra my priority: LG Sinha
Says every pilgrim should leave with enriching experience Reviews preparations at Baltal; directs robust coordination, safety Baltal, Jun 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said that preparations for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra have been carried out over the past several months through coordinated efforts of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), the Jammu and Kashmir Administration, security agencies, and the Government of India, expressing confidence that this year's pilgrimage will be safer, smoother, and better managed than ever before. Speaking to reporters after reviewing the arrangements at the Baltal axis, the Lieutenant Governor said all departments and stakeholders have worked in close coordination to ensure comprehensive preparations for the annual pilgrimage. He noted that significant improvements have been made in infrastructure, security, healthcare, sanitation, logistics, and other essential services compared to previous years. LG Sinha said that extensive arrangements have been put in place to facilitate a safe, secure, and hassle-free pilgrimage for devotees. He highlighted that security agencies have implemented a robust security framework, while civil departments have ensured adequate healthcare facilities, emergency response mechanisms, sanitation services, accommodation, and other pilgrim amenities. During his visit to the Baltal base camp, the Lieutenant Governor conducted an on-ground inspection of various facilities and chaired a high-level review meeting with senior officials. He directed all stakeholder departments to ensure that every essential amenity is fully operational before the commencement of the Yatra and instructed officials to maintain the highest standards of coordination and preparedness throughout the pilgrimage. My priority is that every pilgrim can undertake this sacred journey with complete safety and comfort and return home with a truly enriching and spiritually fulfilling experience, LG Sinha said. Describing the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra as a symbol of faith, devotion, and collective celebration, the Lieutenant Governor said the arrangements should reflect the spirit of the pilgrimage by ensuring that every devotee receives proper care, assistance, and support during the journey. Expressing satisfaction over the overall preparedness, LG Sinha reiterated that every possible measure has been taken to strengthen security, improve infrastructure, enhance medical facilities, streamline traffic and logistics management, and provide better sanitation and civic amenities, ensuring that devotees can undertake the annual pilgrimage in a safe, peaceful, and well-organised environment. The meeting was attended by K.N. Rai, Member, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board; DGP Nalin Prabhat; Special DG Coordination S.J.M. Gillani; Principal SecretarytoLieutenant Governor and CEO Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg; Managing Director JKPDCL and Nodal Officer for Baltal Axis Rahul Yadav; IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdi; IGP Traffic M. Suleman Choudhary; DIG CKR Rajiv Omprakashn; Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore; SSP Ganderbal Sudhanshu Dhama; Director Information Shreya Singhal; DG Rural Sanitation Anoo Malhotra; and senior officers of civil administration, police, and security forces. Deputy Commissioner(DC) Ganderbal presented a comprehensive overview of the preparations of line departmentsahead of the annual yatra. The Senior Superintendent of Police, Ganderbal, briefed the meeting on the security plan, including deployment of personnel, area domination, surveillance measures, access control, traffic management, and emergency response mechanisms. The Lieutenant Governor reviewed infrastructure, security measures, and overall arrangements to ensure all preparations are complete.
DC launches Pulse Polio drive in Doda
Doda, Jun 28: Deputy Commissioner Doda Krishan Lal on Sunday inaugurated the district-wide Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme at the OPD Complex of the Associated Hospital, Government Medical College (GMC), Doda, marking National Pulse Polio Day. Across the district, 57,524 children below five years of age received Pulse Polio drops through 507 Pulse Polio Immunisation Booths set up in urban and rural areas. Parents and caregivers turned out in large numbers to avail the free immunisation services for their children. The DC administered Pulse Polio drops to several children and interacted with parents, stressing the importance of immunising every child below five years of age against poliomyelitis. The Deputy Commissioner said immunisation is one of the most effective public health interventions and appealed to all parents and guardians to ensure that every eligible child receives the life-saving Pulse Polio vaccine. He lauded the efforts of healthcare workers, ASHAs, Anganwadi workers, volunteers and field staff for implementing the campaign across the district. Among those present were Chief Medical Officer Dr Vinod Sharma, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr SL Manhas, Block Medical Officer Dr Abdul Gafoor, doctors, paramedical staff and other officials of the Health Department.
KMCH Sempora holds Pulse Polio Drive, takes immunization campaign to doorsteps
Srinagar, Jun 28: Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, on Sunday organized the Pulse Polio Immunization Drive and conducted an outreach campaign in nearby areas to ensure every child under five years of age receives the life-saving polio vaccine. People from different areas of Sempora brought their children to the KMCH campus to administer polio drops as part of the Pulse Polio Immunization Drive. The initiative aimed to strengthen community awareness, encourage parents to complete their children's immunization, and reaffirm the commitment to keeping India polio-free. In her message, Executive Director KMCH, Insha Qazi, said that preventive healthcare remains one of the hospital's top priorities and that initiatives such as the Pulse Polio campaign reflect KMCH's commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of children She said the institution is dedicated not only to providing quality medical care but also to actively participating in national public health programmes aimed at preventing vaccine-preventable diseases. Qazi appreciated the dedication of the doctors, nursing staff, paramedics, and the Department of Community Medicine for successfully conducting the immunization drive and outreach campaign. She urged parents to cooperate with healthcare workers and ensure that every eligible child receives the polio vaccine on time, emphasizing that sustained community participation is essential to preserving India's hard-earned polio-free status. Doctors from the Department of Community Medicine, along with nurses and other supporting staff, remained on their toes throughout the day to ensure the successful conduct of the Pulse Polio immunization drive. The teams also carried out outreach visits to nearby communities, administering polio drops to eligible children and spreading awareness about the importance of vaccination. Prof. Nazir Ahmad Khan, Principal, Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), said: We are observing Pulse Polio Day to keep India free from polio and ensure that every eligible child is immunized. I urge everyone to become part of this collective effort and support the campaign wholeheartedly. He said that the threat of the virus remains, as it can be imported from polio-endemic regions at any time. Therefore, we must remain vigilant and ensure that no child is left unvaccinated. This is not only our duty but also our moral responsibility to protect every child from this preventable disease, he said. Notably, recently the KMCH Sempora commenced comprehensive immunization services under the Government of India's Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), marking an important step towards strengthening preventive healthcare services for the community.
56,302 children receive Pulse Polio vaccine in Ramban
Ramban, Jun 28: District Administration Ramban on Sunday launched the three-day Intensified Pulse Polio Immunisation (IPPI) Campaign2026 across the district. On the inaugural day, MLA Ramban Arjun Singh Raju and the Chief Medical Officer administered polio drops to children at District Hospital Ramban, while Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Alyas Khan and ADC Varunjeet Singh Charak administered drops at CHC Batote. Despite adverse weather, 56,302 children were immunised on the first day, 94.5% of the 59,530 children targeted, aged zero to five years, across the district. The DC lauded the efforts of frontline health workers and other department functionaries and appreciated the ground teams who ensured extensive coverage despite rainfall on the first day. The district administration established 425 vaccination booths, including nine transit booths, across the four medical blocks of Gool, Ukhral, Batote and Banihal. A total of 1,700 officials and workers, supported by 85 supervisors, have been deployed for the drive. Mobile and transit teams comprising supervisors, teachers, health workers, ASHAs and Anganwadi workers are engaged in implementation and monitoring, with focus on remote and snowbound areas. The campaign will continue for the next two days as per the district action plan for 2026.
Agri Dept Bpora organizes farmers awareness program under Khet Bachao Abhiyan
Bandipora, Jun 28: As part of the ongoing Khet Bachao Abhiyan, the Department of Agriculture, Bandipora, today organized a farmers awareness programme at Sumbal to promote sustainable agricultural practices and enhance awareness among the farming community. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of farmers, officers, and field functionaries. Joint Director Engineering, Department of Agriculture, who was the chief guest on the occasion, emphasized the importance of conserving agricultural resources through efficient water management, maintenance of soil health, adoption of scientific farming practices, and the judicious use of farm inputs. He urged farmers to embrace modern technologies to improve productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability. During the programme, experts from the Agriculture Department interacted with farmers and provided technical guidance on scientific crop management, resource conservation, and various government schemes aimed at enhancing farm productivity and increasing farmers' income. The experts also addressed farmers' field-related queries during an interactive session. Speaking on the occasion, the officers reiterated the Department's commitment to strengthening farmer outreach through regular awareness programmes and capacity-building initiatives under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. They encouraged farmers to adopt climate-resilient and sustainable agricultural practices for long-term agricultural growth. The programme concluded with a renewed commitment by the Department to continue promoting scientific and sustainable farming practices across the district through sustained awareness and extension activities.
Ensure every child below five years receives oral polio vaccine
Baramulla, Jun 28: The Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization Campaign was formally launched om Sunday at the Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC), Old Town Bagh-e-Islam Baramulla, by Chief Planning Officer (CPO) Nisar Ahmad. The inaugural programme was attended by Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Baramulla, Dr. A.G. Raina; Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Jozi Bashir; District Immunization Officer, Dr. Waheeda; Block Medical Officer Sheeri, Dr. Sheikh Nasir; District Coordinator, Dr. Sheikh Asif; and other senior officers of the Health Department. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Planning Officer Nisar Ahmad highlighted the significance of the Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization Campaign in protecting children from poliomyelitis and strengthening the district's public health system. He urged all parents and caregivers to ensure that every child below five years of age receives the oral polio vaccine, emphasizing that no eligible child should be left out. He also appreciated the dedication of healthcare workers and frontline staff for their continued efforts in implementing the campaign successfully across the district. CMO Baramulla, Dr. A.G. Raina, reiterated the Health Department's commitment to achieving universal immunization coverage and stressed the importance of active community participation in making the campaign a success. He appealed to parents to cooperate with vaccination teams and avail themselves of the free vaccination services. A total of 1.64 lakh children in the 05 years age group are targeted to be covered during the immunization drive. The Health Department has made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth implementation of the campaign.
Shopian rolls out intensified Pulse Polio Programme
Shopian, Jun 28: District-level launch of the Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization (IPPI) 2026 programme was inaugurated by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Shopian, Dr. Nasir Ahmed Lone at District Hospital Shopian on Sunday. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Chief Medical Officer Shopian, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, District Immunization Officer, Block Medical Officer and other health officials and frontline healthcare workers. The programme commenced with the administration of the first oral polio vaccine (OPV) drops to a newborn baby. Speaking on the occasion, the ADDC appreciated the dedicated efforts of healthcare workers and stressed the importance of achieving 100 percent vaccination coverage. He appealed to all parents to bring every child below five years of age to the nearest polio booth and ensure that no child is left unvaccinated. The Health Department is trying its best for making Shopian a polio-free district through active community participation and coordinated efforts of all stakeholders. The District Health Administration also expressed gratitude to healthcare workers, volunteers and the public for their continued support in making IPPI-2026 a successful public health initiative and called upon everyone to work collectively to safeguard the future of every child.
DC Indu Kanwal Chib calls for 100% Polio Immunization
Bandipora, Jun 28: Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, on Sunday launched the Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization Programme (IPPI)-2026 from NTPHC Quil Muqam and reviewed the arrangements made for the district-wide campaign aimed at immunizing all children in the 0-5 years age group against polio. The Deputy Commissioner said that seamless arrangements had been put in place for the successful implementation of the campaign across the district. A total of 338 polio vaccination booths had been established, with more than 61,000 children in the 0-5 years age group identified as the target population for immunization. On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner said the first day of the campaign was being conducted through institutional vaccination booths, while the next two days would witness intensive door-to-door vaccination to ensure that no eligible child was left uncovered. The Deputy Commissioner urged parents and guardians to actively participate in the campaign and ensure that every child below five years of age received the two life-saving drops, emphasizing that every child vaccinated was a step towards a polio-free future. She stressed the importance of achieving 100 percent coverage of eligible children and directed the Health Department to ensure its saturation. Meanwhile, the DC reviewed the functioning of NTPHC Quil Muqam and assessed healthcare service delivery. She also took stock of the issues related to the local water supply scheme and directed the concerned authorities to address the matter on priority. Among others present on the occasion were Chief Medical Officer Bandipora, Dr. Bhajan Kour; Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Nasir Ahmad; Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Bandipora-cum-District Immunization Officer, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad; Block Medical Officer Bandipora, Dr. Mohammad Tahir Malik, besides other health officials and stakeholders.
DC Budgam kick-starts Pulse Polio Immunization campaign
Budgam, Jun 28: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, on Sunday kick-started the Pulse Polio Immunization Programme in the district. The campaign was formally kick-started at District Hospital Budgam, where the DC administered polio drops to children in the 05 years age group. Chief Medical Officer Budgam, Dr. Gulzar Ahmad Dar, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shahid Qadri, Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Budgam, Dr. Aijaz Ahmad Kant, District Health Officer (DHO), District Immunization Officer (DIO), Block Medical Officers (BMOs), DPMU officials and other senior officers were present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, the DC said that all children in the 05 years age group across the district will be covered under the Pulse Polio Immunization Programme. He informed that 628 Pulse Polio booths have been established across Budgam district to ensure that no eligible child is left out. The DC further stated that 8 transit vaccination points and 3 Mela Bazar booths have also been established to vaccinate children at transit locations and other public places, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the programme. He said that following the booth-based vaccination drive, house-to-house vaccination will be conducted on 29th 2026, during which health teams will visit every household to cover children who may have missed vaccination at the booths. The district aims to cover 1,22,477 children below the age of five years under the campaign. The DC appealed to parents to cooperate with health workers and ensure that every eligible child receives the life-saving polio drops in their nearest booths established across the District. Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer Budgam, Dr. Gulzar Ahmad Dar, informed that health workers, ASHA workers, ICDS workers and volunteers have been deployed at Pulse Polio booths across the district. He added that dedicated transit teams have also been constituted to vaccinate children at designated transit points, ensuring that no child is missed during the campaign.
Pakistan strikes kill 29 along border with Afghanistan
Pakistan launched retaliatory strikes across its border with Afghanistan, resulting in the deaths of 29 individuals. This action followed a well planned intelligence based ground operation by Pakistani security forces. The strikes were a direct response to recent terrorist incidents targeting civilians and security personnel in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Karachi.
No backdoor appointments: Govt challenges opp to provide evidence
Outsourcing framework created during PDP-BJP rule, not us: CMs Advisor Srinagar: National Conference-led Jammu and Kashmir government on Sunday dismissed the allegations of malpractices in recruitment, saying the process of outsourcing for jobs was started before they came to power. We did not start this outsourcing process. We got it in legacy, just like they []
Any challenge to Hormuz routes will increase tensions: Iran
Baghdad: Irans top diplomat warned Sunday that any attempt to bypass the Strait of Hormuz routes agreed with the United States would increase tensions in the Middle East, as the countries traded attacks and accusations of violating a fragile ceasefire in the region. During a visit to Iraqi capital Baghdad, Abbas Araghchi also called for []
Rising West Asia tensions matter of serious concern: Dr Farooq
Urges Iran, US to demonstrate wisdom, statesmanship Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah on Sunday expressed concern over the rapidly escalating tensions in West Asia, describing the unfolding situation as a grave threat to regional and global peace, security, and stability, and stressed that dialogue, diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to []
Amarnath Yatra: LG reviews infra, security, amenities at Baltal
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday conducted a high-level review of preparations for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 during a detailed meeting at Baltal in Ganderbal. The meeting, attended by senior officials and stakeholders, focused on infrastructure, security arrangements, amenities, and eco-friendly initiatives to ensure a smooth, safe, and environmentally sustainable pilgrimage. The []
Chief Election Commissioner of India arrives in Sgr on 3-day visit
Will interact with voters, BLOs, stakeholders Srinagar: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, Gyanesh Kumar, on Sunday arrived in Srinagar on a three-day official visit to Jammu and Kashmir. During the visit, the CEC will undertake various programmes across the Valley, aimed at engaging with the voters, electoral stakeholders and field-level election machinery besides reviewing []
Kashmiri scientist delights international audience with art, poetry on neurology Geneva: In a spectacular historic milestone for Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar-born Ph.D. researcher Safiya Mehraj has taken the international stage by storm, captivating a global audience of medical elites at the prestigious EAN Neurology 2026 congress in Geneva, Switzerland. Safiya, a clinical biochemistry researcher from []
Crime Branch registers FIR in Rs 68 lakh fraud at J&K Grameen Bank branches
Jammu: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Crime Branch on Sunday registered an FIR into an alleged fraud of more than Rs 68 lakh in Jammu and Kashmir Grameen Bank after an internal vigilance inquiry uncovered suspected fake loan accounts, unauthorised transactions and diversion of funds. The case was filed under sections 420 and 120-B []
Pak intruder caught along LoC in Poonch
Mendhar/Jammu: A 31-year-old Pakistani intruder was apprehended by Indian Army troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch on Sunday, the third such incident in the district this month, officials said. Rayees Khan, a resident of Pakistan-held Kashmir, was taken into custody from Balakote sector shortly after he crossed the LoC []
Relief in Sight, Caution a Must
As temperatures soar and rain approaches, J&K must prioritise public health and preparedness Kashmir has been reeling under an intense spell of heat, with Srinagar touching this seasons highest maximum of 33.8C. Across the Valley, from Qazigund at 33.2C to Kupwara at 32.3C and Kokernag at 31.9C, daytime temperatures have remained unusually high. Even the relatively cooler tourist resorts like Pahalgam and Gulmarg are reporting elevated readings of 27.7C and 24.8C, respectively. In the Jammu division, the mercury has climbed higher still, with Jammu city recording 37.0C and Katra 35.6C. The Meteorological Department has indicated that this hot and generally dry pattern is likely to persist till June 30, prolonging the prevailing heatwave conditions. From July 1 to July 4, however, a fresh Western Disturbance interacting with the advancing southwest monsoon is expected to bring widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds and even isolated hailstorms across Jammu and Kashmir. While this wet spell should provide much-needed respite from the oppressive heat and improve soil moisture for agriculture and horticulture, it will also usher in a new set of risks. This twin reality calls for sober reflection and timely action. On the one hand, authorities must treat heat as a serious public health concern, not a passing inconvenience. Heat-related illness affects the elderly, children, outdoor workers, patients with chronic diseases, and those without adequate access to cooling most acutely. Clear advisories on avoiding direct sun during peak afternoon hours, ensuring regular hydration, checking on vulnerable neighbours, and adjusting school and work timings where necessary should be widely disseminated. On the other hand, the approaching spell of rain and thunderstorms demands preparedness against flash floods, landslides, falling trees, and damage to weak infrastructure, particularly in hilly and flood-prone areas. The MeT Department has rightly urged vigilance. Administration must translate forecasts into ground-level readiness: cleaning drains, identifying vulnerable slopes and embankments, preparing rescue and relief teams, and issuing location-specific alerts through all available channels. People at large, too, have a crucial role. Following official advisories, avoiding unnecessary travel during severe weather, staying away from swollen streams and nallahs, and resisting the temptation to treat storms as spectacles can save lives. The changing weather over the coming days should not be seen merely as a shift from heat to rain, but as a reminder that resilience in Jammu and Kashmir now hinges on how swiftly we adapt our habits, our planning, and our public health responses to a more volatile climate.
LGs Inclusive Message Shows The Way
A timely reaffirmation of Sanatana Dharmas pluralist spirit Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinhas recent remarks that Hinduism has historically embraced diversity rather than imposed itself, and that ancient India gave Christianity, Islam, Judaism and Zoroastrianism the space to flourish, deserve clear appreciation. Speaking at an interfaith dialogue in Srinagar on Saturday, the LG did more than recall civilisational wisdom; he offered a morally grounded roadmap for a tense and fractured world. By foregrounding Sanatana Dharma as a tradition that welcomes plurality and coexistence, LG Sinha positioned Indias spiritual heritage as an antidote to contemporary polarisation. His invocation of the Vedas and Upanishads, the universal prayer Sarve Bhavantu Sukhina, Sarve Santu Niramaya , and the long dialogue between Indic philosophies and Sufi thought, underlines a vital point: this civilisation at its best has never claimed a monopoly over truth. It has recognised multiple paths and respected different ways of worship. Equally significant is the way the LG locates Jammu and Kashmir within this broader story. By linking Kashmiriyat to Bhartiyata an Indianness rooted in equal respect for all faiths, he reminds us that J&K has long been a living laboratory of interfaith harmony. Shrines, temples and khanqahs standing side by side are not mere heritage sites; they are the visible imprint of the very ethos the LG champions. It is important to acknowledge that such a message, coming from the constitutional head of the Union Territory, carries weight. At a time when sectarian rhetoric too easily captures headlines, LG Sinhas consistent emphasis on dialogue, mutual respect and the idea of the world as one family ( Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam ) offers a reassuring contrast. His call to the younger generation to carry forward this legacy is both sincere and forward-looking. Equally commendable is the LGs insistence that India has never asked anyone to abandon their faith, but has invited all to ring your faith with you and live together in harmony. In a global climate marked by religious anxieties and identity conflicts, such clarity from the Raj Bhawan is not routine; it reflects conviction and courage. The challenge, of course, lies in translating these noble principles into daily practice. Here too, LG Sinhas frequent outreach, participation in interfaith initiatives, and public articulation of inclusive values indicate a seriousness of purpose. If institutions, political actors and civil society align with the spirit of his message, regions like Jammu and Kashmir can once again become exemplars of peaceful coexistence. In choosing to highlight Indias inclusive spiritual foundations and in rooting J&K firmly within that narrative, LG Manoj Sinha has struck the right note. His words deserve not only praise but also broad support, and a collective commitment to live up to the ideals he has so forcefully and eloquently defended.
The VB-GRAM-G Act of 2025: A New Architecture for Rural Transformation
VB-GRAM-G responds to these aspirations through a new planning philosophy based on convergence, saturation and scientific planning On Wednesday (24-06-2026), the Hon'ble Lt. Governor officially notified the Viksit Bharat- Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission-(Gramin) scheme for all rural areas across J&K. Simultaneously, the administrative machinery of the Rural Development Department is in the process to ensure a seamless rollout of this significant transition on July 1st, when MG-NREGS will formally evolve into the VB-GRAM-G, nationally. While this major policy shift has naturally sparked some apprehension regarding the continuity of job guarantees and tech-driven implementation, a careful reading of the new Act offers reassurance. The core statutory employment guarantee remains fully intact. It is the broader architecture of rural development that has been strengthened and modernized. The most important reassurance for rural households is that the statutory employment guarantee continues. In fact, the guarantee has been expanded from 100 days to not less than 125 days of wage employment per rural household in a financial year. Equally significant is the legal provision that protects all existing entitlements. Households already registered under MG-NREGS will transition seamlessly into the new system without any interruption in benefits. The rationale behind this transformation lies in the changing realities of rural India. Over the last decade, villages across the country have witnessed remarkable improvements in road connectivity, sanitation, digital access, financial inclusion, housing and basic services. Rural aspirations have consequently evolved. The demand today is not merely for temporary wage employment but also for productive infrastructure, improved agricultural productivity, climate resilience and livelihood diversification. VB-GRAM-G responds to these aspirations through a new planning philosophy based on convergence, saturation and scientific planning. Under the previous system, works often emerged as isolated, demand-driven interventions. While these contributed significantly to local development, they were sometimes fragmented and lacked integration with broader development priorities. The new programme introduces the concept of the Viksit Gram Panchayat Plan, under which every Gram Panchayat will prepare a comprehensive development plan approved by the Gram Sabha. These plans will no longer be prepared in isolation. Instead, they will be supported by GIS-based planning tools, satellite imagery and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which integrates multiple spatial datasets across sectors. Gram Panchayat plans will subsequently be integrated into the National Rural Infrastructure Stack. The National Rural Infrastructure Stack is the most transformative feature of the new architecture. It envisages a single digital registry of all rural public assets and proposed works, irrespective of the funding source. Whether an asset is created under VB-GRAM-G, PMAY-G or any other programme, it will be mapped within one unified digital ecosystem. This integrated platform will prevent duplication, identify infrastructure gaps and ensure that public investments contribute towards measurable saturation outcomes. A New Allocation Formula for Balanced Development Another important reform under VB-GRAM-G is the introduction of a normative allocation framework for the distribution of funds among States. Unlike MG-NREGS, which largely followed a demand-driven approach, annual allocations under the new framework will increasingly be guided by objective parameters recommended by the 16th Finance Commission for fair distribution of funds across states. These include factors such as population, demographic performance, forest cover, geographical area, per capita Gross State Domestic Product distance and contribution to the national economy. Greater weightage has been assigned to the states that have historically lagged behind economically, bridging the regional divide. At the Gram Panchayat level, allocations will also be guided by indicators such as the Panchayat Advancement Index, employment performance and developmental gaps, thereby aligning public investment with the principles of equity, saturation and need-based planning. New Opportunity for J&K For J&K, the new funding mechanism presents a significant opportunity. J&K currently has more than 1 million job cards and generated nearly 44 million working days during the previous financial year. Significantly, this contribution was achieved despite the average employment generated being only around 44 working days per job card against the earlier statutory ceiling of 100 days. With the legal guarantee now enhanced to 125 days under the new scheme, there exists considerable scope to expand employment generation and increase the states share in national programme outcomes. As J&K continues to enjoy a favourable Centre-State funding ratio of 90:10, the fiscal burden on the State exchequer remains relatively limited, enabling greater leveraging of Central resources for rural development. However, under the emerging normative allocation framework, future resource flows are likely to depend not only on demand but also on objective development indicators and performance parameters. This calls for a strategic approach centred on expanding job card coverage by enrolling all eligible rural households and improving programme performance. Equally important will be the need to deepen convergence with allied sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, livestock, forestry and irrigation so that wage employment translates into durable community assets and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Such an approach can position J&K to derive maximum benefit from the new architecture while accelerating the broader objectives of rural transformation. Performance Matters VB-GRAM-G also introduces a performance-linked incentive framework. From the second year of implementation onwards, a part of the normative allocation is proposed to be linked to the performance of States and implementing agencies. Key performance indicators are expected to include timely payment of wages, compliance with social audit requirements, completion rate of sanctioned works and other governance-related benchmarks. The objective is to strengthen accountability, improve service delivery and encourage better programme management while ensuring that rural households continue to receive their statutory employment entitlements in a timely and transparent manner. The funding mechanism has also been streamlined. Under the previous framework, different expenditure components were shared separately between the Centre and States. VB-GRAM-G adopts a simpler funding pattern, with expenditure shared in the ratio of 60:40 between the Centre and States for General States and 90:10 for North-Eastern and Himalayan States, including J&K. This special dispensation recognises the unique geographical and developmental challenges faced by hill regions and ensures continued financial support for rural employment and infrastructure creation. Four Thematic Domains for Asset Creation The programme identifies four thematic domains for rural asset creation to ensure comprehensive and sustainable development: Domain-1: Water Security. This encompasses watershed management, groundwater recharge, irrigation infrastructure, afforestation, and the rejuvenation of water bodies. Given the increasing frequency of droughts, floods, and erratic weather patterns, strengthening water security has become indispensable for sustainable rural development. Domain-2: Core Rural Infrastructure. This addresses essential public assets, including rural roads, Gram Panchayat buildings, Anganwadi centres, school infrastructure, sanitation facilities, and renewable energy systems. Domain-3: Livelihood-Related Infrastructure. This emphasizes creating productive assets that support agriculture, livestock, fisheries, self-help groups, storage infrastructure, rural markets, and value chains. The objective is to move beyond wage employment towards sustainable and diversified rural livelihoods. Domain-4: Mitigation of Extreme Weather Events. As climate change increasingly affects rural communities through floods, landslides, droughts, and other disasters, this domain provides for mitigation and adaptation works such as flood protection structures, disaster shelters, slope stabilisation measures, and the restoration of damaged community assets. Another significant innovation is the introduction of a peak agricultural season pause. States will notify specific periods during sowing and harvesting seasons when new works will not ordinarily commence. This provision aims to ensure adequate labour availability for agricultural operations and maintain a balance between public employment programmes and the rural farm economy. Transparency and Inclusion Technology constitutes the backbone of the new programme. VB-GRAM-G adopts a digital-first architecture, enabling end-to-end transparency in implementation. By leveraging biometric attendance and geospatial mapping platforms like Bhuvan and Yuktdhara, the system makes it nearly fool-proof for planning and monitoring. Importantly, the rights-based character of the programme remains unchanged. Employment must still be provided within 15 days of demand. Failure to do so will continue to attract payment of the unemployment allowance. Wages will be transferred directly into workers' bank or post office accounts through robust Direct Benefit Transfer mechanisms, with delay compensation automatically calculated wherever payments are delayed. The programme also retains and strengthens social accountability mechanisms. Gram Sabhas will continue to conduct social audits. Weekly disclosures of works, payments and grievances will be made publicly available. Ombudspersons, multi-tier grievance redressal systems and statutory penalties for violations further reinforce accountability. VB-GRAM-G also places strong emphasis on inclusion. At least one-third of beneficiaries must be women, while vulnerable categories, including single women, persons with disabilities, elderly citizens, tribal communities and other disadvantaged households will receive priority in work allocation and asset creation. As India advances towards the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, rural development programmes must evolve to meet emerging challenges and aspirations. VB-GRAM-G represents such an evolution. It preserves the employment guarantee that has protected millions of rural households while simultaneously creating a framework for integrated infrastructure development, climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods. (The Author is a JKAS Officer of the 2019 Batch and Viksit Bharat Senior Fellow. Dr Bhat is presently working in the Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Govt. of J&K as a Block Development Officer. Feedback: shakilvet@skuastkashmir.ac.in )
Pratham Sindhu Kumbh: Reawakening India's Civilizational Soul at the Banks of the Sindhu
Civilizations endure not merely through monuments and memories, but through traditions that continue to inspire generations. The Sindhu has flowed for millennia, carrying within its waters the story of India's soul The successful conclusion of the Pratham Sindhu Kumbh, organised alongside the historic 30th Sindhu Darshan Yatra on the sacred banks of the Sindhu River in Leh, Ladakh, marks a defining moment in India's civilizational journey. More than a religious congregation, it emerged as a celebration of India's timeless heritage, spiritual continuity and national consciousness. The event rekindled an ancient bond between the people of India and the river that has shaped the nation's identity for thousands of years. The Sindhu is not merely a river; it is the cradle of one of the world's oldest civilizations. From its name originated the words Sindhu, Hindu, and eventually India, making it the fountainhead of the country's civilizational identity. Flowing majestically through the Himalayas, the river has nurtured ancient settlements, inspired philosophical thought, facilitated trade, and sustained generations of seekers, scholars and saints. Unlike many civilizations that survive only through archaeological remains, the civilization of the Sindhu continues to live through India's traditions, values, festivals and collective consciousness. The six-day Pratham Sindhu Kumbh transformed this glorious legacy into a living experience. Thousands of pilgrims, saints, scholars, public representatives, artists, youth, defence personnel and devotees from across the country gathered at Sindhu Ghat to participate in sacred rituals and celebrate the enduring spirit of Bharat. The atmosphere resonated with devotion, patriotism and cultural pride, reminding every participant that India's unity has always been rooted in its shared civilizational heritage. Among the most remarkable highlights of the Kumbh was the Kalash Yatra, carrying an extraordinary message of universal harmony. Sacred water collected from 156 countries was ceremonially brought to Leh and offered as Jal Abhishek to the holy Sindhu River. This unique ritual elevated the celebration beyond national boundaries. As the waters gathered from across continents merged with the eternal flow of the Sindhu, they symbolised the unity of humanity and reflected India's timeless philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam he world is one family. It was a powerful reminder that despite differences of language, nationality and culture, humanity shares a common destiny founded upon peace, compassion and mutual respect. The international significance of the event was further enhanced by the presence of Ambassadors from eight countries, who participated in the celebrations and witnessed India's rich civilizational heritage first-hand. Their presence transformed the Pratham Sindhu Kumbh into an occasion of cultural diplomacy, demonstrating that the message flowing from the banks of the Sindhu transcends geographical boundaries. It reflected the growing global appreciation for India's spiritual traditions and underscored the universal relevance of values such as coexistence, harmony and dialogue. The sacred Sindhu Puja, accompanied by Vedic chanting, devotional hymns and traditional rituals, created an atmosphere of profound spiritual energy. Revered saints representing diverse spiritual traditions offered prayers for national prosperity, environmental harmony and world peace. The ceremonies reflected India's unique civilizational ethos, where diversity is embraced while unity remains the guiding principle. The gathering itself became a living example of inclusiveness, bringing together people from different faiths, regions, languages and backgrounds under one shared identity. A major intellectual dimension of the celebration was added through the International Conference on Vishva Shanti organised at the University of Ladakh. Eminent scholars, diplomats, policymakers, academicians and spiritual leaders deliberated on the challenges confronting humanity, including conflict, climate change, social fragmentation and the erosion of human values. The conference highlighted the enduring relevance of India's civilizational philosophy in addressing contemporary global issues. The discussions reaffirmed that the principles nurtured for centuries on the banks of the Sindhudialogue, compassion, coexistence and universal brotherhoodcontinue to offer meaningful guidance for building a peaceful and sustainable world. The cultural programmes organised under the inspiring theme Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat further strengthened the spirit of national integration. Artists from different parts of India showcased the country's extraordinary cultural diversity through classical and folk dances, devotional music and traditional performances. Together, these presentations celebrated the remarkable unity that lies at the heart of India's diversity, reinforcing the idea that the nation's greatest strength has always been its ability to harmonise countless traditions into one civilizational identity. Ladakh proved to be the perfect setting for this historic gathering. Situated at the crossroads of ancient trade routes connecting India with Central Asia and Tibet, the region has long served as a meeting point of civilizations, cultures and spiritual traditions. The Sindhu River, flowing through this magnificent Himalayan landscape, has silently witnessed centuries of cultural exchange and peaceful coexistence. Hosting the Pratham Sindhu Kumbh in Ladakh, therefore reaffirmed the region's historic role as a bridge between civilisations and highlighted its growing importance in India's cultural and spiritual landscape. The successful completion of the 30th Sindhu Darshan Yatra alongside the inaugural Pratham Sindhu Kumbh also marked an important milestone in a movement that began three decades ago to reconnect Indians with the river that gave the nation its identity. Over the years, the Sindhu Darshan Yatra has evolved into a powerful symbol of national integration and cultural resurgence. The Pratham Sindhu Kumbh has taken this vision to greater heights by integrating spirituality, scholarship, diplomacy and cultural exchange into one grand celebration of India's civilizational heritage. One of the most emotional moments of the event came when thousands of participants proudly raised the Indian Tricolour on the banks of the Sindhu and reaffirmed their commitment to the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the nation. Against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas, the sight of saints, pilgrims, soldiers, students and citizens standing together under the national flag reflected the inseparable relationship between spirituality and patriotism in India's civilizational journey. It was a powerful expression of the idea that devotion to the nation is an extension of devotion to humanity. The remarkable success of the Pratham Sindhu Kumbh was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh, the Sindhu Darshan Yatra Samiti, local communities, security forces, volunteers, religious organisations and numerous government departments. Their meticulous planning, discipline and warm hospitality ensured the smooth conduct of every ceremony and programme, while reflecting Ladakh's enduring tradition of service and communal harmony. As India moves confidently towards a future of progress and global leadership, the Pratham Sindhu Kumbh stands as a shining example of how a nation can preserve its ancient heritage while embracing modern aspirations. It demonstrates that safeguarding civilizational traditions is not merely about remembering the past but about drawing timeless values from history to shape a united, peaceful and confident future. The uninterrupted flow of the Sindhu has silently witnessed the rise and fall of kingdoms, the evolution of civilizations and the aspirations of countless generations. Today, it continues to inspire humanity with its timeless message of unity, harmony and coexistence. As the sacred waters collected from 156 countries merged with the Sindhu through the Kalash Yatra, and as Ambassadors from eight nations stood on its banks in a shared prayer for peace, the world witnessed the enduring relevance of India's civilizational philosophy. The Pratham Sindhu Kumbh was therefore far more than a religious festival. It was a celebration of India's timeless identity, a reaffirmation of its cultural confidence, a tribute to its spiritual heritage and a powerful declaration that the ideals nurtured on the banks of the Sindhupeace, unity, compassion and universal brotherhoodwill continue to guide India and inspire the world for generations to come. (The Author can be reached at: balisachin775@gmail.com )
Pvt Hospitals to Halt Ayushman Services from July 1
Unpaid Dues Force Ayushman Shutdown: Association Srinagar, Jun 28: Private hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir will suspend dialysis, chemotherapy, surgeries, ICU care and all other treatments under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)/SEHAT scheme from July 1, citing non-payment of dues by government for the past three years. The Jammu and Kashmir Private Hospitals and Dialysis Centres Association said the decision had been taken with a heavy heart after exhausting all available options to continue providing services despite mounting financial losses. The association said it had continued treating patients under the Ayushman Bharat/SEHAT scheme without charging beneficiaries, trusting that the government would clear the pending payments in time. We have treated your mothers, fathers, children and elders without taking a single rupee from you. We believed the government's assurance that hospitals would be paid on time. Unfortunately, that promise remains unfulfilled, the association said. President of the Jammu and Kashmir Private Hospitals and Dialysis Centres Association (Jammu region), Sandeep Mengi, said crores of rupees remain unpaid, leaving private hospitals in severe financial distress. He said hospitals have been forced to borrow money, delay staff salaries and struggle to procure essential medical supplies. According to him, many hospitals are facing shortages of dialysis consumables, cancer medicines, surgical materials and oxygen supplies after vendors stopped extending credit due to unpaid bills. We knocked on every door. We raised the issue with all concerned quarters. Every time we were assured that the payments would be released soon. However, beyond repeated assurances, no concrete action has been taken, Mengi said. The association said hospitals have now reached a stage where continuing treatment without essential medicines and medical supplies would compromise patient safety. A doctor without medicines is helpless, and a hospital without supplies is merely a building. We cannot risk patients' lives by pretending we can continue treatment when critical resources have been exhausted, it said. The association urged patients who are undergoing regular dialysis or chemotherapy under the Ayushman Bharat/SEHAT scheme to contact their respective hospitals immediately and make necessary arrangements instead of waiting until June 30. Appealing for public support, the association said doctors, nurses and healthcare workers were not responsible for the present situation and had been compelled to take the difficult decision. It also urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to appeal to the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister to ensure immediate release of the pending funds. We do not want to stop treating patients. We took an oath to serve humanity. Releasing the pending payments will enable hospitals to procure medicines and continue providing life-saving treatment. We hope the government acts without further delay, the association said. The association warned that unless the outstanding payments are cleared immediately, all Ayushman Bharat/SEHAT services in private hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir will remain suspended from July 1, affecting thousands of patients dependent on the scheme for critical healthcare.
MP Khatana Praises PM Modi at Mann Ki Baat Event
Bathindi, June 28:Senior BJP leader and Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha (Nominated), Er. Gulam Ali Khatana on Sunday participated in the community listening programme of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' (Episode 82) at Dogian, Bathindi, along with prominent citizens. The programme was organised by former Sarpanch Ch. Mohd. Alam. Speaking to the media on the occasion, Er. Khatana praised the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that under his guidance, India is making remarkable progress across every sector. He stated that the Prime Minister's unwavering commitment to nation-building, inclusive development, and cultural pride has inspired every citizen to contribute towards a stronger and more prosperous India. Referring to the Prime Minister's message, Er. Khatana said that India has always stood united in the face of every challenge, and this spirit of collective strength is the nation's greatest asset. He emphasized that while embracing modern development, the country must remain deeply connected to its rich heritage, traditions, and cultural values. India has always impressed the world with its unique civilisation, diverse traditions and vibrant culture. Our cultural heritage not only defines our identity but also creates immense opportunities for tourism, entrepreneurship and employment. India is rightly known as the 'Golden Bird' because of its rich legacy and diversity. Every culture and every community of our country adds its own unique fragrance to the beautiful bouquet that is India, Er. Khatana said. He urged the youth, artisans, entrepreneurs and local communities to take full advantage of flagship initiatives such as 'Vocal for Local', 'Start-up India' and 'Stand-Up India' to promote indigenous products, traditional crafts and local enterprises globally. He said that India's cultural strength and civilisational values have the potential to inspire the world, particularly at a time when humanity is facing multiple global challenges. During the interaction, local residents also apprised Er. Khatana of several public issues, including the shortage of drinking water, erratic electricity supply, poor road connectivity and the need for improved civic infrastructure. The Member of Parliament assured the public that their genuine concerns would be taken up with the concerned authorities for prompt and appropriate action.
PDP Holds Meeting in Habba Kadal, Highlights Public Issues
Srinagar, June 28: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senior leader and Constituency Incharge Habba Kadal, Arif Laigroo, today held an important meeting at Nawa Bazar, Habba Kadal, where several pressing public issues were discussed in detail. In a statement, the party said during the meeting, local residents expressed serious concern over the rising electricity bills, poor condition of lanes and roads, and the acute water crisis in the Chattabal area. Arif Laigroo said that people are fed up with the negligence of the authorities and stressed the need for immediate redressal of these issues. Laigroo also directed the ward presidents to gear up for the upcoming Municipal elections and strengthen the party at the grassroots level. He said that PDP will hold meetings in all wards of the constituency to reach out to the people and listen to their grievances. The meeting was organized by Zone President Habba Kadal, Tufail Bhat. Arif Laigroo reiterated PDPs commitment to addressing the issues of the people and working tirelessly for their welfare.
Kashmir Sankalp Yatra: The longest expedition in-exile on Kashmir & Kashmiri Hindus
FRAGRANCE OF IDEAS When around two decades of exile of the Hindu minorities of Kashmir were coming to a near close in 2007, Panun Kashmir, in its annual general meeting at Jammu in January 2007, decided to raise the issue of Kashmir and Kashmiri Hindus in an unusual but effective manner throughout the country. It was, in the context of the Kashmiri Pandit struggle, surely an unconventional way of pushing the agenda on a public platform actively and consistently. Accordingly, it was decided to organise a two-month expedition to bring to light the coveted issue at the national level. The security situation in the entire Jammu and Kashmir state was, as usual, nearly out of gear, and the Kashmiri Pandit community continued to face apathy and neglect at the hands of both the governments, the central government and the state government, after experiencing the worst scenario of living as refugees in their own country due to their genocide and ethnic cleansing. Terrorism was active, and people were getting killed almost every day. There was a Congress-PDP government in the state under the chief ministership of Gulam Nabi Azad, and the Central government was governed by the Congress-UPA under the leadership of Manmohan Singh as the Prime Minister of India. It was expected that the expedition would be led by this author in the capacity of his being the President, Panun Kashmir. However, I was working in the State Bank of India, and it would have been almost impossible to snatch months together to plan, execute and lead the expedition that was named as 'Kashmir Sankalp Yatra' (KSY). In the month of March 2007, I was inspired to go for voluntary retirement from my service in SBI and devote full time to the community service, paving the way for joining the proposed KSY. It was surely an unprecedented act that could have brought disaster to the entire family in the future course of time. There was definitely some spiritual inspiration that drove me to take such a tough step in my life. My family didn't take any serious objection to it and backed me fully, thereby becoming a part of the whole thinking process. I hence applied for the same and was relieved by the bank on 30 June, 2007. With this, I ended my 25-year career with the SBI, which could have ordinarily lasted for ten years more. I was now having 24x7x365 days' availability for socio-political activity in the name of Kashmir & Kashmiri Hindus under the banner of Panun Kashmir. Immediate future plans included: to raise enough finances for the Yatra, inspiring activists to join the KSY as per their time availability, counseling with key KP organizations in Jammu and other places and also with the RSS and other nationalist organisations, making friends with the local and national media, publishing the desired literature in at least two languages -English and Hindi and making foolproof travel plans spanning near two months covering 9 states and 2 union territories. It took nearly four months to make all preparations regarding the KSY. It was finally decided to begin the Yatra on 11 November 2007 from the Kashmir valley. An elaborate press conference was organised in the first week of November 2007 at Jammu in which the dates for the Yatra were officially announced. A nine-member team was finalised to go to the valley. The advance party comprised Upinder Kaul, Vinod Mattoo, Shiban Krishen Raina, Nanaji Dembi, Ashwani Bhat and Bittoo ji. This team reached Srinagar on 10 November 2007 and started making all arrangements needed for the Yatra. On the same day, a 'press conference on road' was organised in the Old Secretariat complex, Jammu, where a demonstration was also held on certain pressing issues pertaining to the displaced community. In the early morning of 11 November, 2007, a three-member team led by this author left Jammu for Srinagar by air. The other members included Prof. H.L.Jalali and S.N.Dulloo. Adequate arrangements were made by the government to provide the necessary security cover to the KSY team in the trouble-torn valley; thanks to Kuldeep Khuda, the then DGP of the J&K state, for doing so. As we came out of the airport at Srinagar, we kissed the land of Kashmir and were joined by the security personnel and the advance party of the KSY outside the airport. It was for the first time in exile that a group of the displaced activists was visiting Kashmir on such a mission. From the airport, we straightaway drove to historic Sheetalnath-Sathu and paid our obeisances to the presiding deity - Sheetalnath Bhairav there. We also paid our tributes to the martyrs of the 1967 agitation at their 'samadhi' in the complex. At the end, we took an oath to keep the flame of our struggle alive till we achieve our Homeland in Kashmir. Upinder Kaul collected some sacred earth from the temple-steps to take it along with to Jammu. We later sent a part of it to the Shri Ramjanambhumi Nyas at Ayodhya when the foundation of the grand Shri Ram temple was laid there after the court verdict to enable its mingling with the sacred earth of the thousands of Tirthas of the country. The local Muslim neighbourhood at Sheetalnath gathered in the complex on noticing our arrival, but kept watching our activities keenly. The whole Sheetalnath complex, including the temple, was in shambles. The Hindu High School board was changed to 'H. High School. But there was a silver lining also to be observed, and it was the concrete wall all around the complex. The administration had taken that step some time ago and deserved kudos for that. From Sheetalnath, we went to Hanuman Mandir, Amirakadal and then to the ancient Pandrethan temple in the Badami Bagh cantonment area. Ultimately, we reached the Zeethyar temple in the Dal lake area under heavy security escort and stayed there for the night. It was a sight to be seen; the whole complex was so developed that it fascinated all of us. It was a grand achievement under the circumstances. We also had the sacred darshan of the presiding deity there and stayed in the complex for the night. It was surely a very hard and fearful night in the deep woods of the Zabarwan hills. That night before going to bed, we had an aarti in the temple of goddess Jeshtha Mata. The next day, in the morning, as per schedule, we organised things for the press conference to be held at Hotel Welcome near Nehru Park. The hotel complex was surrounded by the security forces. At exactly 11 am, the press conference started and lasted for an hour. After having an informal chat with the media after the press conference, the three-member team again went to the Srinagar airport and boarded the aircraft bound for Jammu. The advance party of six members stayed for the night at Zeethyar and returned to Jammu via Nagrota camp on 13 November, 2007. On the next day, ASKPC held a reception for the whole team of KSY at Geeta Bhawan, Jammu, under the leadership of its General Secretary, H.L.Chatta. With this came to an end the first phase of the KSY. On 15 November 2007, a press conference was held at Jammu in which the details of the first phase were shared with the media. Simultaneously, the schedule and other details about the next three phases were also placed before them. On 16 November, the second phase of the yatra began with the visit of the entire team of Panun Kashmir to all camps of the displaced persons at Muthi, Purkhoo, Mishriwala and Nagrota. The team in the next two days paid visits to Bavey Wali Mata, Raghunath Mandir and Pashupatinath Mandir in Jammu. The second phase of the yatra from Jammu to Ahmedabad was initially joined by one hundred activists comprising men, women and the youth. The first stop was at Amritsar, where we visited Darbar Sahib and were specially felicitated by the Head Granthi there. Thereafter, the yatra also visited Jallianwallan Bagh and Durgiyana Mandir, followed by a press conference the next day. The Kashmiri Pandit Sabha, Amritsar, made all arrangements for the stay and meals of the yatris. Hereafter, the KSY moved on towards Delhi via H.P., Chandigarh, Chandigah and Haryana in a Sumo jeep with a select group. Programmes and press conferences were held at all the main places where the yatra stopped for a halt throughout. It included Chandigarh and Ambala. A number of programmes were held in Delhi, Faridabad and Ghaziabad (UP). All India Kashmiri Samaj and Kashmiri Sahayak Sabha, Faridabad, under the leadership of M.K.Kaw and J.N. Kaul, respectively, organised special reception programmes for the KSY at their offices. A press conference was held in the Press Club of India. Here in Delhi, Utpal Kaul, a senior activist of the community and Panun Kashmir, joined the yatra team up to Jodhpur. The next destinations included Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur in Rajasthan, where impressive gatherings and media conferences were organised. Thereafter, the yatra reached Ahmedabad and stayed there for four days. The programmes there included visits to Aksher-Dham, Sabarmati Ashram, Kashmiri Pandit Milchar association and a press conference. Here, the second phase was concluded, and the third phase began, for which we reached Nagpur (Maharashtra) by train. The other members of the team changed here, and a new team reached Nagpur directly from Jammu. The team was welcomed in Nagpur, Nanded Sahib and Pune, where big programmes and press conferences were organised. Thousands of people attended those programmes. The Yatris were specially felicitated in the Nanded Sahib Gurudwara; the Rotary Club also invited the yatra team, especially over a programme followed by dinner. In Nagpur, the team went to the RSS headquarters and paid tributes at the Smriti Mandir. In all the programmes throughout, the issue of Kashmir and the Kashmiri Hindus was discussed and debated at length, giving out the full perspective of Islamic terrorism and its effects on the Kashmiri Pandit minorities. The causes of displacement and the neglect thereafter were also put in detail in the RSS-organised programme in the RSS office at Pune. From Pune, the yatra reached Pathankot (Punjab), where it was joined by hundreds of yatries who came from Jammu and organised a grand programme on the banks of the river Ravi. Amarnath Vaishnavi, the President of ASKPC, joined the yatra here and was the Chief guest in the programme. From the banks of the river Ravi, the yatra reached the Lakhanpur bridge. It was here that the third phase of the yatra got concluded, and the fourth and the last phase began, which was to be completed on foot up to Jammu. Vimla Chrungoo, Secretary-DOPK, volunteered to accompany this author for 'pad-yatra' from Lakhanpur to Jammu, which consumed seven days with night halts at Kathua, Hiranagar, Chichi-Mata Samba, Vijaypur, Greater Kailash and Vaishnavi Dham, Railway Station, Jammu. On 28 December 2007 (Margdarshan Day), the Kashmir Sankalp Yatra reached the banks of the Ranbir Canal at Rajinder Park, Jammu, where a grand reception was held by the leaders and the activists of various organisations led by veteran H.N.Jattu. For the next three days, the yatra team had a round of all the displaced camps and the Har-ki-Pauri on the banks of the river Tawi near Bahu fort. On 31st December 2007, the Yatra concluding programme was held on the foundation day of Panun Kashmir at TRC-Hall, Jammu, which was attended by the major organisations of the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community and the Sikh community. With this came to an end the 'Kashmir Sankalp Yatra' of 2007, which was the longest expedition of the displaced activists during their exile on the issue of Kashmir and the Kashmir Hindus. The details of the KSY during the years ahead will need another day to come to light....! (The author is a senior BJP and KP leader, Human Rights Defender and a columnist and can be reached at: ashwanikc2012@gmail.com )
Dr. Farooq condoles demise of Gul Mohammad Kawoosa
Srinagar, June, 28: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah has expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of Haji Gul Mohammad Kawoosa, son of Late Haji Habibullah Kawoosa of Nowhatta, Srinagar. In his condolence message, Dr. Farooq described the deceased as a respected and dignified member of society whose passing has left his family, relatives, friends and well-wishers in deep mourning. Extending his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, Dr. Farooq prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul in the highest echelons of Jannat and for strength and fortitude to the family to bear this irreparable loss.
Sports Infrastructure to Be Strengthened in Border Areas: Govt
Javed Rana attends Dr. Masud Choudhary Memorial Championship finals Mendhar, June 28: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Sunday attended the finals of the Dr. Masud Choudhary Memorial Championship League at O.P. Hill Ground, Mendhar. During the matches, Jatt 11 emerged victorious in the final defeating Mendhar 11 in an exciting summit clash held amid enthusiastic participation from the sports lovers and local youth. Batting first after winning the toss, Mendhar 11 posted a challenging total of 167 runs in the allotted 15 overs. In reply, Jatt 11 chased down the target of 168 runs in 14.2 overs to clinch the championship trophy. Ranjeet Singh played a match-winning knock for Jatt 11 and was adjudged the Man of the Match for his outstanding performance. Javed Rana, who attended the finals as a chief guest, congratulated both the teams for displaying exemplary sportsmanship and competitive spirit. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the growing enthusiasm among the youth towards sports is a positive development and reflects the immense talent present in the border areas. He said the government is committed to create better sports facilities to enable young sportspersons to excel at various levels. Rana announced that several sports infrastructure projects would be taken up in Mendhar to provide a robust platform to the youth. He informed that a number of projects, including an Indoor Stadium, Synthetic Track and Cricket Ground, are already under execution in the area and the next Championship will be played on the new ground. The Minister appreciated the efforts of the organizers for successfully conducting the championship. He said that such events play a vital role in promoting discipline, teamwork and healthy competition among the youth. He reiterated the government's commitment towards the promotion of sports and assured full support for the development of sporting infrastructure in border districts, particularly Rajouri and Poonch. Prominent citizens, sports enthusiasts, local representatives and members of the organizing committee were also present on the occasion.
Dr. Farooq Express Concern on West Asia Tensions
NC president urges Iran, US & other stakeholders to exercise restraint Srinagar, June 28: National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Sunday expressed serious concern over the escalating tensions in West Asia, describing the situation as a grave threat to regional and global peace, security and stability. He said any action that undermines peace or derails diplomatic efforts must be strongly discouraged, urging all stakeholders to work collectively to preserve the fragile peace process in the region. Expressing anguish over ongoing Israeli military operations in Lebanon and the loss of civilian lives, Dr. Abdullah said military force cannot resolve political disputes and only deepens human suffering and instability. He called for intensified international efforts to secure an immediate ceasefire and ensure protection of civilians along with uninterrupted humanitarian assistance. Appealing to both Iran and the United States to show restraint and statesmanship, he stressed the importance of safeguarding diplomatic progress achieved through sustained dialogue. He said existing understandings and engagements must not be allowed to collapse. Dr. Abdullah also urged international and regional organisations involved in mediation to strengthen diplomatic initiatives, revive dialogue and promote confidence-building measures to prevent further escalation. Highlighting the wider global impact of conflicts, he said wars lead to economic disruption, rising fuel and food prices and increased hardship for vulnerable populations, stressing that peace is both a political and humanitarian necessity. He expressed hope that all parties would act with prudence and a renewed commitment to diplomacy to ensure lasting peace and stability in West Asia.
Lone Vows to Expose Outsourcing Facts in a Week
Srinagar, June 28: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (PC) president and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone on Sunday intensified his attack on the National Conference (NC) government over the issue of outsourcing, alleging that the ruling dispensation had continued and encouraged the policy despite having the opportunity to stop it. In a statement, Lone said he would place every fact related to outsourcing in the public domain within a week and asked the NC to be prepared to answer questions on the issue. While acknowledging that the outsourcing policy did not originate under the present government, Lone alleged that the NC had not only allowed it to continue but had also encouraged it after assuming office. He further alleged that the outsourcing system was vulnerable to corrupt collusion and claimed to possess information supporting his allegations, indicating that more details would be disclosed shortly. Lone also referred to a starred question he had raised in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, seeking details from the General Administration Department on the number of outsourced jobs, the agencies engaged, payments made to outsourcing firms, salary norms for outsourced employees and a department-wise break-up of such appointments. According to Lone, while the government responded to parts of the query, it did not answer questions regarding the objectives of outsourcing or whether it intended to encourage or discourage the practice as a matter of policy. Calling the omission significant, Lone said the government's silence on these issues raised serious questions and asserted that further disclosures on the outsourcing policy would be made within a week.
'Pain Has No Religion': Kashmiri Pandit Filmmaker's Message of Unity
Romaish Pandita's Dugh Chei Kunie highlights shared suffering of Pandits ,Muslims Srinagar: Kashmiri Pandit filmmaker Romaish Pandita, originally from Sopore in north Kashmir's Baramulla district, has produced a film titled Dugh Chei Kunie (Pain is the Same), portraying the shared suffering of Kashmiris during the decades-long conflict. Pandita's family migrated from the Kashmir Valley during the peak of militancy in the 1990s and is now settled in Chandigarh. Despite living away from his homeland for decades, he says his connection with Kashmir remains deeply rooted, inspiring him to tell a story of pain, hope, and reconciliation. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Pandita said the film was shot in different parts of the Kashmir Valley and focuses on the emotional trauma experienced by both Kashmiri Pandits and Kashmiri Muslims. The central message of the film is that pain has no religion. The suffering of a Kashmiri Pandit is the same as that of a Kashmiri Muslim, whether they live on this side of the Banihal Tunnel or the other. Kashmiri Pandits are incomplete without Kashmiri Muslims, and Kashmiri Muslims are incomplete without Kashmiri Pandits, he said. Explaining another important dialogue from the film, Pandita said the Valley cannot truly reclaim its centuries-old Rishi-Sufi tradition until the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community returns to its homeland. Kashmir is incomplete without the return of Kashmiri Pandits. Only when they return can the true spirit of Kashmiriyat and the Rishi tradition be restored, he said. Pandita also expressed optimism over the increasing number of Kashmiri Pandits visiting the Valley in recent years. He said that large numbers of devotees have visited the historic temple at Mattan in Anantnag, participated in the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela in Ganderbal, and recently visited the Abhinavagupta Cave at Beerwah in Budgam district. This was the first time in decades that such a large number of Kashmiri Pandits visited the Abhinavagupta Cave at Beerwah. It gives hope that those who left the Valley nearly 36 years ago are gradually reconnecting with their roots, he said. Pandita also thanked the residents of Beerwah for warmly welcoming the visiting Kashmiri Pandits. I am grateful to the people of Beerwah for their hospitality and support. Their warm welcome reflects the spirit of brotherhood and strengthens hope for lasting peace and reconciliation in Kashmir, he added. Through this movie, Pandita seeks to promote a message of communal harmony, shared suffering, and the hope of rebuilding bonds between communities that once lived together in the Valley.
Sajad Lone Seeks Answers on Outsourcing, Says Facts Will Be Made Public Within One Week
SRINAGAR:Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference president and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone on Sunday stepped up his attack on the National Conference-led government over its outsourcing policy, alleging a lack of transparency and claiming that his party would place every fact related to outsourcing in the public domain within a week. In a statement, Lone said []
Drive Launched to Revive Panzath Nag After Fish Mortality
Qazigund (Anantnag), June 28: Residents of Panzath village in south Kashmirs Qazigund area on Sunday launched a cleanliness and de-weeding drive to revive the historic Panzath Nag spring following reports of fish mortality in the water body. The drive saw participation from local residents along with officials from the Jal Shakti, Irrigation and Flood Control and Fisheries departments, besides members of Auqaf, who jointly cleared nearly a one-kilometre stretch of the spring by removing weeds and accumulated waste. Panzath, known as the Land of 500 Springs, is fed by a network of freshwater springs that provide drinking and irrigation water to several villages in the Qazigund belt. A delegation of the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC), led by former Governors advisor and retired IAS officer Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, also visited the site and appreciated the community-led conservation effort. He, however, stressed the need for coordinated action by departments to address possible contamination and fish deaths. Retired Chief Conservator of Forests Manzoor Ahmad Tak said the large-scale fish mortality indicated ecological stress in the spring and called for urgent conservation measures. Locals also attributed the deterioration to pollution and unchecked waste disposal, urging authorities to take sustained steps for protection of the water body. Assistant Engineer Jal Shakti Division Qazigund, Javaid Ahmad Ganie, said the drive was carried out jointly by departments and residents, adding that efforts were underway to safeguard the spring that supplies water to nearly 30 to 35 villages. Residents also called for regular maintenance of Panzath Nag and proposed its development as a tourist destination while ensuring ecological preservation.
Kashmir Scholar Earns NeuroART Honour
CSIR-IIIM researcher to present NeuroART entries in Geneva Srinagar, June 28: Safiya Mehraj, a Ph.D. scholar at the CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Sanatnagar, has been selected to showcase her creative work at the prestigious NeuroART Competition 2026, organised by the Resident and Research Fellow Section (RRFS) of the European Academy of Neurology (EAN). Her works are being exhibited during the 12th EAN Congress, being held in Geneva, Switzerland, from June 27 to 30. Safiya has earned recognition in multiple categories of the competition, including visual art, poetry and analytical writing, reflecting an innovative blend of neuroscience and creative expression. In recognition of her achievement, the European Academy of Neurology awarded her an EAN travel grant to present her work during the special Creativity and Wellbeing among RRFS Members: NeuroArt session at the congress. Her selected submissions include a painting and essay titled The Sanctuary of Thought: An Anatomy of the Silent Guardian, which explores the biology of the blood-brain barrier and the neurovascular unit, and a poem, The Architecture of the Echo, inspired by the journey of nerve impulses and the complexities of the human nervous system. A resident of Srinagar, Safiya has established herself as a researcher as well as a calligrapher and artist. Her selection has been widely appreciated in academic and research circles, with colleagues describing it as a significant recognition of the scientific and creative talent emerging from Jammu and Kashmir. Her work seeks to make complex neurological concepts accessible through art and literature, highlighting the intersection of science, creativity and human experience.
Kashmir: Human Skull Recovered Along Jhelum Bank
SRINAGAR: A human skull was recovered from the bank of the Jhelum River in the Takiyabal area of Sopore on Sunday, officials said. An official said that locals noticed the skull lying on the riverbank and immediately alerted the police. Acting on the information, a team from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), along with the []
Uri Villages Find Hope in Lavender Cultivation
Lavender farms produce first oil yield of about four litres Srinagar, June 28: Lavender cultivation is steadily gaining ground in the remote border villages of north Kashmirs Uri sub-division, emerging as a promising alternative cash crop and offering fresh hope of enhanced incomes for local farmers. Introduced under the Jammu and Kashmir governments Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), the aromatic crop has begun transforming unused dry land into productive farms, with the Agriculture Department hopeful of the positive response from local growers. Officials in the Agriculture Department said lavender cultivation was launched in 2023 under the HADPs Aromatic and Medicinal Plants initiative at two locations in Uri - Sultandaki and Trikanjan Farms in Boniyar. Around 10 kanals of land have been brought under cultivation at each site. We have started cultivating lavender at these two farms as the crop requires comparatively less water and thrives in hilly and dry terrains, an Agriculture Department official said. The crop entered its first harvesting season last year, during which nearly four litres of lavender oil were extracted from the two farms. Officials said the department has now established its own Primary Processing Unit (PPU), a move expected to significantly increase production while reducing costs for farmers. Earlier, lavender flowers had to be taken outside Uri for oil extraction. The newly established PPU is equipped with an oil extraction facility, greenhouse and cold storage, creating an integrated infrastructure for processing and preserving lavender produce. With improved facilities now available, the department expects oil production to rise substantially this season. We are hopeful of extracting between 10 -15 litres of lavender oil this year, the official said. Lavender oil, widely used in the perfume, cosmetics and wellness industries, fetches around Rs 12,000 to Rs 13,000 per litre, making it a high-value crop for farmers. The plant is particularly suitable for rain-fed and dry land areas due to its low water requirement. According to the department, the planting season begins from August till November and the second planting season starts from March, while harvesting takes place during June and July. Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO) Uri, Mushtaq Ahmad Allaie, said the first harvest itself demonstrated the economic potential of the crop. We earned nearly Rs one lakh during the first harvesting season. With better infrastructure and higher production this year, we expect even better returns. Our aim is to encourage more farmers to adopt lavender cultivation, which can play a significant role in doubling their income, Allaie said. Officials believe that the success of the pilot farms could pave the way for large-scale cultivation of aromatic and medicinal plants across Uris border villages, providing farmers with a sustainable and profitable alternative to conventional agriculture.
Sakeena Urges Parents to Vaccinate Under-5 Children
Launches Pulse Polio Immunization drive in Kulgam Kulgam, June 28: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Sunday launched the Pulse Polio Immunization drive from the District Hospital Kulgam by administering polio drops to a newborn baby. Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, Director Family welfare J&K, Chief Medical Officer, Medical Superintendent and other officers were also present. The Minister emphasized that immunization is one of the most effective measures to protect the children from preventable diseases and ensure a healthy future for the younger generation. She urged the parents and caregivers to bring all children in the 0-5 years age group to the nearest vaccination centres and ensure that no child is left out of the immunization campaign. She stressed that achieving and sustaining a polio-free status requires active community participation and collective responsibility. Sakeena Itoo also commended the healthcare professionals and frontline workers for their unwavering commitment to child health. She called for intensified awareness efforts to make the Pulse Polio programme a complete success. The Health Minister expressed confidence that with sustained public cooperation and dedicated efforts of the health department, the objective of reaching every eligible child can be successfully achieved.
31-year-old Pakistani national held after crossing LoC in Poonch
Jammu and Kashmir Police apprehended a 31-year-old Pakistani national, Rayees Khan, on Sunday after he allegedly crossed the Line of Control into Indian territory in the Balakote sector. No incriminating material was found. This marks the third such apprehension this month, following the capture of another Pakistani national, Mohd Sajad, on Friday near the LoC in Poonch. Both individuals are currently being questioned to determine their motives and backgrounds.
Four-Year-Old Critically Injured in Pahalgam Road Accident
SRINAGAR:A four-year-old boy was critically injured after he was allegedly hit by a vehicle in the Aroo area of Pahalgam in south Kashmirs Anantnag district. The injured child has been identified as Mohammad Yasir Chala, son of Ghulam Ahmad Chala, a resident of Lane Dachan, Pahalgam. Officials said the boy was initially taken to Government []
PARAS Health Holds Free Multi-Speciality Medical Camp in Sonmarg
SRINAGAR: PARAS Health Srinagar, in collaboration with The Villa Himalaya, Kullan, organised a mega multi-speciality health camp in Sonmarg, providing free specialist consultations and preventive healthcare services to nearly 100 patients as part of its outreach programme to improve access to medical care in remote areas. The camp, held on June 27 from 10 am []
Police Arrest Daughter Along with Her Husband for Killing Father
SRINAGAR: A couple wanted in connection with the murder of an elderly man in Uttarakhands Almora district has been arrested from Katra in Jammu and Kashmir following a multi-state manhunt, police said. The accused, identified as Dharmveer Sharma, a resident of Hansi in Haryana, and his wife Jhanki Pandey, had been absconding since the alleged []
IMD says wait for monsoon may be over in 5-6 days even as Delhi, UP reel under heat
Monsoon is poised for a significant advance into northern states over the next five to six days, according to the IMD. Meanwhile, Delhi sweltered through its warmest morning in two years, with temperatures soaring. Heatwave conditions are also anticipated in Uttar Pradesh. Experts attribute the delay and high temperatures to interacting dry and moist winds, with monsoon arrival in Delhi expected around July 4.
LG Sinha Reviews Yatra Readiness, Unveils Eco-Friendly Swachh Yatra Initiative
SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday reviewed security and civic preparations for the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra at Baltal and directed all stakeholder departments to ensure that all facilities are in place for a safe, comfortable and well-organised pilgrimage. He also launched the Directorate of Rural Sanitations Shubham-Shivam campaign and a series of eco-friendly initiatives []
Worker Dies After Being Found Unconscious
SRINAGAR: A labourer was declared brought dead after his colleagues rushed him to Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital, Srinagar, on Sunday after finding him unconscious inside his room in the Rangreth area. The deceased has been identified as Shahmeem Ahmad Gangoo, 35, a resident of Khanyar, Srinagar. According to hospital sources, fellow labourers working []
Garbage, Stray Dogs Raise Health, Safety Concerns Outside Kashmir University
SRINAGAR: Accumulated garbage, stagnant water and a growing stray dog menace have turned the market outside the University of Kashmir in the Hazratbal area of Srinagar into a source of concern for commuters, students and shopkeepers. Residents and traders said that heaps of garbage have remained unattended for several days, while stagnant water around the []
Jammu Kashmir: Nine Injured as CISF Bus Skids Off Road
SRINAGAR: Nine persons, including eight Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel and a civilian driver, were injured after a bus skidded off the road near Tarakote in Reasi district on Sunday, officials said. A senior police officer said that the accident occurred on Sunday afternoon when a bus of the 572 CISF Company (JK08D-5992), carrying []
Lieutenant Governor urges youth to become ambassadors of drug-free J&K
Srinagar, June 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today interacted with the volunteers of the Save Youth Save Future Foundation at Lok Bhavan, Srinagar. The Lieutenant Governor commended the efforts of the members of the foundation for their dedicated community outreach and social initiatives and inspiring greater participation of youth in the fight against substance abuse. Calling upon the youth to become ambassadors of a drug-free Jammu Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to continue spreading awareness in their localities and work with determination to build a prosperous and healthy society. He also reiterated his commitment to dismantle the entire drug ecosystem while ensuring that affected youth receive every possible opportunity for treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration into the mainstream. During the interaction, the members of the Save Youth Save Future Foundation expressed their gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor for spearheading the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan.They also lauded the stringent action taken by the Civil Administration and J&K Police against drug peddlers and those involved in the narcotics trade. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also launched Mulaqaat, an initiative of the Save Youth Save Future Foundation aimed at bringing together people from different communities to interact, share their memories, experiences, traditions and cultural heritage. The initiative seeks to strengthen social bonds, promote communal harmony and foster mutual understanding among diverse sections of society. Wajahat Farooq Bhat, Chairman, Save Youth Save Future Foundation; Anika Nazir, Women's Wing Head; Mudasir Ahmed Dar, South Kashmir Zonal President and team members of the Save Youth Save Future Foundation were present.
Dead Body Recovered from Kangan Hydropower Canal After SDRF Search
Kangan, June 28: The body of a young woman, identified as Yasmeena, daughter of Altaf Ahmad and a resident of Thune, Kangan, was recovered on Sunday from the Hydropower Canal at Satrina in central Kashmir's Kangan area after an extensive search operation by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). According to officials, the woman had reportedly who had jumped into the Hydropower Canal at Thune. Following the incident, SDRF Gund personnel launched a search and rescue operation, which concluded with the recovery of her body from the canal at Satrina. The body was subsequently handed over to the local police for the completion of legal formalities. Police have taken cognizance of the incident, and further proceedings are underway.
18-Year-Old Swept Away in Ganderbal Power Canal, Search Underway
SRINAGAR:An 18-year-old girl went missing after reportedly slipping into a power canal at Thune in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Sunday, officials and local sources said. According to reports, the unmarried girl, whose identity has been withheld, accidentally fell into the canal while she was near the site. She was reportedly only a few months []
India, Seychelles unveil 19 outcomes spanning defence, digital payments, space, health
India and Seychelles have inked 19 key agreements, bolstering bilateral ties across defense, maritime security, digital payments, space, and healthcare. Prime Minister Modi and President Herminie finalized pacts including an extradition treaty, UPI integration, and preliminary work on a new hospital. The collaboration signifies a deepening partnership between the two nations, enhancing security and development initiatives.
Chief Election Commissioner of India arrives in Srinagar on 3 day visit
SRINAGAR, JUNE 28: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, Shri Gyanesh Kumar, today arrived in Srinagar on a three day official visit to Jammu and Kashmir.During the visit, the CEC will undertake various programmes across the Valley, aimed at engaging with the voters, electoral stakeholders and field-level election machinery besides reviewing the electoral initiatives being [] The post Chief Election Commissioner of India arrives in Srinagar on 3 day visit appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
J-K: Doda Deputy Commissioner inaugurates Pulse Polio Immunisation campaign at govt hospital
Doda , June 28 : Deputy Commissioner Doda Krishan Lal (JKAS) on Sunday inaugurated the Pulse Polio Immunisation Campaign at the Associated Hospital, Govt Medical College Doda, reaffirming the district administration's commitment to achieving complete polio immunisation coverage. The inaugural programme was attended by Chief Medical Officer Doda, Dr. Vinod Sharma, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr SL Manhas, Block Medical Officer Ghat, Dr. Abdul Gafoor, Deputy Medical Superintendent, GMC Doda, Dr Irfan Tasaduq, along with officers and officials of the Health Department. Speaking to ANI, the Deputy Commissioner informed that 57,524 children in the 0-5-year age group will be covered under the district-wide campaign. He said that 507 vaccination booths have been established across the district, supported by 1,014 vaccination teams and 101 supervisors to ensure smooth and effective implementation of the programme. There are approximately 507 Pulse Polio booths with around 2,200 employees deployed, along with mobile teams. Hard-to-reach areas have been identified, and special arrangements have been made to administer polio drops to children there, he added. To ensure the smooth implementation of the National Pulse Polio Immunisation Campaign across the union territory, he further stated that the first day of the campaign is dedicated to booth-based immunisation, while the subsequent two days will focus on house-to-house visits to vaccinate children who may have missed the booth sessions. The target is to cover over 1,500 children, with a follow-up house-to-house visit scheduled for those missed. The campaign is crucial as a precaution against polio, given its presence in neighbouring countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan, even though India has not reported any cases since 2011, the Deputy Commissioner added. The Deputy Commissioner also appealed to all parents and guardians to ensure that every child below five years of age receives the two drops of Oral Polio Vaccine, emphasising that no eligible child should be left behind in the mission to keep Doda and the nation polio-free. (ANI)
Dr. Karan Singh visits Charar-i-Sharief, highlights Kashmirs interfaith harmony
Srinagar, Jun 28 : Former Sadr-e-Riyasat Dr. Karan Singh, accompanied by his daughter, visited the revered Charar-i-Sharief shrine on Sunday and offered a chaadar and donation. He said his visit, along with National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullahs recent visit to the Kheer Bhawani shrine, symbolised Kashmirs centuries-old tradition of communal harmony. According to details available with the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), Dr. Karan Singh visited the famous Charar-i-Sharief shrine, where he offered a chaadar and donation. At the shrine, the local priest prayed for Dr. Singhs health and well-being and recalled that several generations of his family had visited the shrine. One of them said that my father had tied a green ribbon here praying for a son and returned to untie it after I was born, Dr. Singh said. He also expressed happiness at seeing the rebuilt ziarat, which was reconstructed after the shrine was set ablaze in 1995 by foreign agents, reducing it to ashes except for the sacred grave. Dr. Singh also said that Dr. Farooq Abdullahs recent visit to the Kheer Bhawani shrine and his own visit to Charar-i-Sharief reflected Kashmirs centuries-old tradition of interfaith harmony.(KNO)
Outsourcing Introduced During PDP-BJP Rule, Says NC Govt
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Sunday dismissed the oppositions allegations that permanent jobs are being filled through outsourcing, asserting that all regular government posts are recruited strictly through a merit-based and transparent process conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) and the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB). Addressing []
Ladakh Fines Tourists Rs 2 Lakh for Illegal Off-Roading
SRINAGAR: In a first-of-its-kind action, the Ladakh Administration has imposed a total penalty of Rs 2 lakh on four tourists for illegally driving their vehicles through Pangong Lake and other protected wildlife areas, as part of a major crackdown on off-roading in ecologically sensitive zones. The action was taken by the Wildlife Department on the []
Election Commissioner greets J&K voters, to interact with BLOs in Budgam
Srinagar, Jun 28 : Election Commissioner of India Gyanesh Kumar on Sunday greeted all voters of Jammu and Kashmir, said he would interact with booth-level officers (BLOs) in the valley, particularly in Budgam district. Speaking to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), the Commissioner said the BLOs, who are considered the model representatives of the Election Commission at the grassroots level, play a pivotal role in voter facilitation and electoral integrity. He added that the interactions would help the Commission assess poll preparedness and address ground-level challenges. Kumar also stated that after the scheduled meetings with the BLOs, he would take in the scenic beauty of the Kashmir valley. Meanwhile, Official sources said the Election Commissioner's visit is part of the Commission's ongoing outreach to strengthen democratic processes in the Union Territory. (KNS).
Outsourcing Cannot Be Treated as Permanent Employment, Says Sakina Itoo
SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakina Masood Itoo, on Saturday mocked former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti over her remarks on outsourcing. I feel pity for her intelligence, Sakina said in response to Mehbooba Muftis statement that jobs are being filled through outsourcing rather than through the Public Service Commission (PSC). She said it []
Iltija Mufti Questions Jammu Kashmir Govt Over Outsourcing Jobs
SRINAGAR: PDP leader Iltija Mufti on Sunday asked the Jammu and Kashmir Government to explain why hundreds of crores of rupees are being spent on outsourcing jobs to private companies, who selected the firms, and whether the recruitment process was conducted transparently. Our simple questions to the J&K Government: Why are hundreds of crores being []
J&K govt denies irregular hiring, hits back at PDP
Ministers say PDP responsible for outsourcing framework and past backdoor entries Srinagar, June 28 : The Jammu and Kashmir government on Sunday rejected the People's Democratic Party's allegations of large-scale backdoor appointments through outsourcing, asserting that all recruitments are being carried out through transparent procedures and in accordance with established rules. Chief Minister's Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani said all government recruitments are conducted through proper channels with transparency, while outsourcing is undertaken in accordance with the prescribed tendering process. There is no truth in the allegations of backdoor appointments. If anyone has evidence, they should produce it and action will be taken, Wani told reporters. He said claims that the government was making appointments through the backdoor were baseless and accused the PDP of spreading misinformation. Wani alleged that several backdoor appointments had taken place during the PDP's tenure and claimed the government possessed evidence of such recruitments. He also blamed the PDP for developments that led to the loss of Jammu and Kashmir's special status and statehood. Cabinet Minister Sakina Itoo said outsourced engagements were temporary arrangements meant to address additional workload and should not be treated as permanent government employment. She said outsourcing in departments was introduced between 2014 and 2018 and that the practice of engaging manpower through agencies began in 2016, before the present government assumed office. The figure of 25,000 alleged backdoor appointments being circulated is completely baseless. All regular recruitments are made through the prescribed procedure, while outsourcing is only a temporary arrangement under an existing government framework, Itoo said. She added that security personnel and sentry workers engaged in hospitals were deployed to meet operational requirements and reiterated that outsourcing was not equivalent to regular recruitment. Itoo also accused the PDP of misleading people over the issue and alleged that irregular appointments, including in J&K Bank, had taken place during its tenure. Minister Javed Ahmad Dar also dismissed the PDP's allegations, saying outsourcing was a Central government-backed framework and not a policy introduced by the present administration. He said all outsourcing engagements were being carried out through a transparent process and accused the PDP of attempting to mislead the public on the issue.(KNS)
Railways Dispatch Over Nine Tonnes of Kashmir Plums to Chennai, Kolkata
SRINAGAR: In a boost to the marketing of Kashmirs seasonal fruit, the Jammu Division of Northern Railway has dispatched more than nine tonnes of fresh plums to Chennai and Kolkata through its parcel service over the past five days, officials said. The dispatch follows the successful transportation of cherries and litchis and marks another step []
Has AI Governance Reached a Turning Point?
by Michael Froman A US ban on advanced AI models exposes regulatory gaps, national security concerns, and growing tensions between innovation, control, and global competition This newsletter was written without any assistance from the worlds most powerful artificial intelligence (AI) model, Anthropics Claude Fable 5not that I had any choice in the matter. Greetings from []
KPDCL Announces Power Shutdowns Across Kashmir
SRINAGAR: The Chief Engineer, Distribution, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), has announced scheduled power shutdowns across several parts of Kashmir between June 28 and July 5 to facilitate maintenance of various 33 kV transmission lines. According to the KPDCL, the shutdown of the 33 kV Potushai-Bandipora-Ajar line will affect power supply to Panzigam, Kuloosa, []
Fresh earthquake of magnitude 5.6 hits Venezuela
Caracas [Venezuela], June 28 : The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) detected an earthquake of magnitude 5.6 off the coast of Venezuela. The 5.6-magnitude earthquake impacted the waters off the coast of Aragua with the seismic event occurring days after the region experienced twin earthquakes that reportedly resulted in the deaths of nearly 1,500 individuals. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 30km Meanwhile, US Department of State's Spokesperson Tommy Pigott said, By bringing international disaster response programs under the State Department, the U.S. government is able to respond more rapidly and more effectively to disasters. After the earthquakes in Venezuela, the U.S. immediately mobilized, activating urban search and rescue teams and the delivery of humanitarian and medical supplies. Acting President of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez thanked United Arab Emirates President, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his condolences to the affected families. Managing Director of the IMF, Kristalina Georgieva expressed solidarity to Rodriguez on the face of the tragedy. Residents, meanwhile, have complained of a lack of organisation in the government's recovery efforts, with the situation made worse by mobile and internet outages in some areas. Several aftershocks and smaller quakes have been reported after Venezuela was hit by two major earthquakes on Wednesday, one with a magnitude of 7.2 and the other 7.5. Rescuers are still on their toes to rescue possible survivors of those earthquakes. At least 1,430 people have been confirmed dead so far after Wednesday's quakes. Another 51,000 have been reported missing, as per Al Jazeera. Authorities have said that recovering survivors will become increasingly unlikely if they are not found within the first 72 hours after an earthquake strikes. Many people are believed to be buried under the rubble from collapsed buildings, and the death toll is expected to climb. As per UNDP, the earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 caused significant human suffering and loss of life, while also severely affecting livelihoods, infrastructure, and essential services. This includes a preliminary estimate of USD 6.7 billion in direct physical damage, equivalent to around 6% of GDP, according to a satellite-based Rapid Digital Assessment (RAPIDA) by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). While the economic impact is substantial, the greatest loss is borne by the people and communities. (ANI)
5 Cr Indoor Stadium approved for Kangan: MLA Mian Mehar Ali
Ganderbal, Jun 25: MLA Kangan Mian Mehar Ali on Saturday said that sports infrastructure across the constituency is being strengthened through a series of initiatives aimed at providing better facilities to local youth, including the construction of a Rs 5 crore indoor stadium at Arigoripora and the upgradation of several major playgrounds. Speaking to Rising Kashmir on the sidelines of the final match of a cricket tournament at Gagangeer Sonamarg, the MLA said that encouraging youth participation in sports remains one of his priorities and that considerable efforts have been made over the past one-and-a-half years to improve sporting facilities in different parts of the constituency. He said an indoor stadium worth 5 crore has been sanctioned at Arigori Pora and work on the project is expected to begin shortly. According to the MLA, the facility will provide a much-needed platform for young sportspersons and help promote indoor sports activities in the region. Mian Mehar Ali said that besides the indoor stadium project, funds have also been allocated for the development and improvement of several playgrounds across Kangan constituency. He noted that sports equipment including kits, rollers, mats and other essential items have already been provided to various clubs and youth groups to support local sporting activities. The MLA particularly highlighted the importance of the large playground at Gund, stating that the ground possesses immense potential and requires filling, fencing and other developmental works. He said additional funds are likely to be allocated to ensure the project is completed at the earliest. I personally visited the ground and reviewed its condition. Some funds had been kept earlier, but the amount was not sufficient. We are making efforts to complete the remaining work so that local youth can fully benefit from the facility, he said. He added that while there are demands for sports infrastructure from various villages and localities, the focus will remain on developing major grounds that can accommodate larger numbers of players and sporting events. There are many playgrounds across the constituency, but it is not possible to develop all of them simultaneously. Our priority is to strengthen a number of major grounds so that they can be utilized effectively by youth from different areas, he said. The MLA said that key sports facilities in Kangan, Gund and other areas are being considered for phased development and upgradation. He expressed hope that these projects would create better opportunities for talented youth and contribute to the overall growth of sports in the constituency. Referring to the contribution of local sports enthusiasts, Mehar Ali acknowledged the efforts of several individuals who have worked for the promotion of sports. He particularly mentioned late Irfan Ahmad Raina, saying his contribution towards the development of one of the playground at Gagangir was significant and deserved recognition. Addressing players and spectators during the final match at Gagangeer Sonamarg, the MLA announced that the recently inaugurated playground would be dedicated to the memory of late Irfan Ahmad Raina in recognition of his pivotal role in pursuing and facilitating the establishment of the facility. He said the late youth had taken a keen interest in the project and remained actively involved in efforts to make the ground a reality. Mehar Ali also expressed gratitude to all those individuals, local residents and sports enthusiasts who contributed towards the development of the playground at Gagangir stating that the facility was the outcome of collective efforts aimed at promoting sports among the youth. The MLA urged young people to actively participate in sports and stay away from drug abuse and other social evils. He said sports play a vital role in shaping a healthy and disciplined society and can open new avenues for talented youth. Whether it is cricket, football, badminton or any other sport, our youth should come forward and participate wholeheartedly. I regularly attend local matches and interact with players. It is encouraging to see the passion and talent among young sportspersons, he said. Expressing optimism about the future of sports in the constituency, Mehar Ali said he hopes to see players from Kangan represent Jammu and Kashmir and the country at national and international levels in the coming years. He assured that he would continue supporting sports clubs, local tournaments and infrastructure projects aimed at increasing youth participation in sports activities. The MLA, however, observed that one of the major challenges in expanding sports infrastructure across Kangan constituency remains the shortage of available government land. He said suitable land is difficult to find in many areas, making it challenging to establish new facilities. Nevertheless, he maintained that wherever government land is available, efforts are being made to utilize it for public welfare projects, particularly those related to sports development. He expressed confidence that despite these limitations, sports infrastructure in the constituency would continue to improve in the coming years.
Shameema Raina condoles demise of Muzaffar Kareem
Srinagar, Jun 27: President of J&K Mahila Congress, Shameema Raina, has expressed profound grief over the demise of renowned social activist and Chairman of the NGO's Conference, Muzaffar Kareem, who passed away on June 26. In her condolence message, Raina described the late Muzaffar Kareem as a noble and compassionate soul who dedicated his life to serving society and extending a helping hand to those in need. She said his selfless contributions to social welfare and humanitarian causes would always be remembered and cherished, adding that his passing has created a void that will be difficult to fill. Expressing heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family, friends, and associates, Raina prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and strength for the family to bear this irreparable loss.
MSME DFO Srinagar celebrates MSME Day 2026
Srinagar, Jun 27: Branch MSME Development & Facilitation Office (DFO), Srinagar, under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), celebrated MSME Day 2026 at the MSME Technology Development Centre (Extension Centre), Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, under the theme Empowering MSMEs through Innovation and Sustainable Industrial Development. The programme brought together representatives from leading incubation centres, academia, the Ministry of MSME, MSME Technology Development Centre (Extension Centre), Srinagar, start-ups from the service sector, and other stakeholders to deliberate on strengthening the MSME ecosystem through innovation, technology, and collaborative support. The event was organized and coordinated by Branch MSME DFO Srinagar under the leadership of Saheel Alaqband, Assistant Director, Ministry of MSME and Mohammad Tariq Ishtiaq, Assistant Director, Ministry of MSME with the active support of the officials and staff of MSME Technology Development Centre (Extension Centre), Srinagar. The programme featured insightful deliberations by Professor Saad Parvez, Head, MSME Incubation Centre, NIT Srinagar; Professor Parvez Mir, Head, CIED Foundation, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST); and Dr. Shahid Jibran, Chief Executive Officer, Atal Incubation Centre, who shared their perspectives on fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven growth for MSMEs. The primary objective of the programme was to strengthen collaboration among incubation centres, academic institutions, MSME support institutions, start-ups, and other stakeholders to build a robust innovation ecosystem for MSMEs. The discussions focused on how these institutions can collectively provide mentoring, technology support, product development assistance, business incubation, market linkages, and capacity building to MSMEs in a more effective and efficient manner. The speakers emphasized that sustained collaboration between government, academia, incubation centres, and industry will play a pivotal role in making Indian MSMEs globally competitive and transforming them into MSME Champions capable of succeeding in international markets. Participants also exchanged ideas on promoting innovation-led entrepreneurship and sustainable industrial development in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.
DC Kulgam inspects urban dev, civic infra projects
Kulgam, Jun 27: Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, today conducted an extensive inspection of Kulgam town to review ongoing urban development initiatives and identify priority interventions aimed at improving civic infrastructure, traffic management, sanitation facilities, and the overall aesthetic appeal of the town. During the inspection, the Deputy Commissioner finalized the proposed sites for the establishment of a vending market and a public convenience (public toilet) at Laroo Adda. The proposed vending market is envisioned to provide an organized space for street vendors, enhance livelihood opportunities, reduce roadside encroachments, and improve pedestrian movement. The proposed public toilet will further strengthen sanitation infrastructure for commuters, shopkeepers, and the general public. The Deputy Commissioner also visited Ghanta Ghar to review the proposed revival of the landmark and inspected plans for footpath beautification under the Kulgam Beautification Plan. Emphasis was laid on developing aesthetically designed pedestrian pathways, improving landscaping, installing street furniture, enhancing lighting, and creating clean, attractive, and pedestrian-friendly public spaces that reflect the town's heritage and identity. Subsequently, the Deputy Commissioner inspected the area surrounding District Hospital Kulgam to identify suitable locations for on-street parking with the objective of easing traffic congestion and ensuring smooth vehicular movement in the hospital vicinity. The proposed parking arrangements are expected to improve accessibility for patients, attendants, emergency services, and the general public while strengthening overall traffic management in the area. Later, the Deputy Commissioner visited the hospital premises and inspected the ongoing developmental works being executed within the campus. The progress and quality of the projects were reviewed in detail, and the concerned officers and executing agencies were directed to expedite the pace of work while strictly adhering to prescribed quality standards. Stressing the importance of creating modern and efficient healthcare infrastructure, the Deputy Commissioner instructed that all ongoing projects be completed within the stipulated timelines so that the enhanced facilities become operational for the benefit of the public without unnecessary delay.
DLSA Budgam organizes awareness program on Intl. Drug Day at Chadoora
Budgam, Jun 27: District Legal Services Authority(DLSA) Budgam in collaboration with Tehsil Legal Services Committee (TLSC) Chadoora and S.A.IM School at Chadoora organized an awareness programme titled International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Traffickingat S.A.IM School Chadoora. The programme was held under the direction of Om Prakash Bhagat, Chairman DLSA Budgam and under the supervision of Tabasum Qadir Parray, Secretary DLSA Budgam and Shafeeq Ahmad Malik, Chairman TLSC Chadoora. Speaking on the Occasion, Adv Nazeer Ahmed, Deputy LADC, said that Drug abuse is recognized globally as a major social evil, affecting the physical, psychological, and socio-economic well-being of individuals and society at large. It is characterized by the hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs, often resulting in addiction, crime, and the breakdown of family structures. He further elaborated that the epidemic of drug abuse amongst the younger generation has assumed implications for alarming dimensions, public health with and significant safety. The Programme witnessed the active participation of, Students, Staff and PLVs of TLSC Chadoora. Meanwhile, DLSA Budgam, through its Para Legal Volunteers, also conducted a door-to-door awareness campaign across various hamlets of the district. During the campaign, residents were informed about the ill effects of drug and substance abuse and were urged to give up such habits at the earliest. They were also advised to seek timely counselling and medical assistance from the concerned health institutions to lead a healthy and productive life.
Intl. Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking observed at Kulgam
Kulgam, Jun 27: Social Welfare Department, in collaboration with the District Administration Kulgam, organized an awareness-cum-counselling programme on various aspects of drug abuse at the Auditorium-cum-Conference Hall, Mini Secretariat, Kulgam, to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking-2026. Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam presided over the programme as the Chief Guest, while the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Viqar Ahmad Giri Kulgam attended as the Guest of Honour. Resource persons from Government Degree College Kulgam, ATF Kulgam, DLSA Kulgam and Government Higher Secondary School Yaripora addressed the gathering and sensitized participants about the harmful effects of drug abuse, preventive measures and the importance of counselling and rehabilitation support. The programme witnessed active participation of ASHA workers from the Health Department, Anganwadi workers from the ICDS Department and students from various schools and colleges. On the occasion, the Nasha Mukt Pledge was administered to all participants, reaffirming their collective resolve to work towards a drug-free society under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
Dir Agri Kashmir inspects pesticide dealers in Shopian
Shopian, Jun 27: As part of the ongoing drive to ensure the availability of quality agricultural inputs to farmers and to curb the sale of unauthorized and substandard pesticides, the Director Agriculture Kashmir conducted a surprise inspection of various pesticide dealers in District Shopian. During the inspection, stocks of pesticides and related records maintained by dealers were thoroughly examined to verify compliance with the provisions of the Insecticides Act and Rules. The inspection aimed to safeguard farmers' interests and ensure the use of quality plant protection chemicals in the farming sector. During the drive, a quantity of 235 kilograms of 'Super M-45' pesticide was seized on suspicion of non-compliance with prescribed standards and regulatory requirements. The seizure was carried out in the presence of the Executive Magistrate, Shopian, following due legal procedure. The Director Agriculture Kashmir reiterated the department's commitment towards maintaining strict vigilance over the sale and distribution of agricultural inputs and warned dealers against indulging in the sale of spurious, misbranded or unregistered pesticides. He emphasized that strict action shall be taken against violators under the relevant provisions of law. Farmers were advised to purchase pesticides only from authorized dealers, insist on proper bills and invoices, and use plant protection chemicals strictly as per the recommendations of the Agriculture Department. The Department of Agriculture Kashmir shall continue such inspection drives across the Valley to ensure the availability of genuine and quality agricultural inputs to the farming community.
Sakeena Itoo holds public darbar at Sailkhanen, dedicates ambulance for patient care
Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo visited Sailkhanen village in Kulgam district and held a public darbar to directly engage with the people and listen to their grievances and developmental aspirations. Addressing the gathering, the Minister said that the Omar Abdullah-led government is committed to people-centric governance and is making concerted efforts to fulfil the developmental aspirations of the people and ensure improved services at their doorsteps. She said that several projects of public importance have been initiated in recent months and healthcare facilities have been upgraded across Jammu and Kashmir, with particular focus on rural and far-flung areas. The Minister also highlighted various welfare schemes aimed at different sections of society, especially women. She urged the youth to avail benefits of skill development initiatives. She stressed the importance of community participation in ensuring accountability and accelerating development. During the public darbar, the locals projected several demands, including inclusion of the area on the tourism map, augmentation of drinking water supply and early completion of the Panchayat Ghar. Responding to the demands, the Minister directed the concerned authorities to identify suitable land for a playfield. She dedicated an ambulance for patient care at the local hospital, considering the area's far-flung nature. She assured the public that all other genuine demands would be taken up and addressed in a phased and time-bound manner.
Justice Moksha Khujuria Kazmi visits Baramulla, Sopore Court Complexes
Justice Moksha Khujuria Kazmi, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and Administrative Judge for District Baramulla, paid an official visit to the District Court Complex Baramulla and Court Complex Sopore on Saturday to review the functioning of the district judiciary, assess judicial infrastructure, and interact with Judicial Officers and members of the Bar. During her visit to the District Court Complex Baramulla, the Judge inaugurated the newly established Ladies Advocates' Bar Room, created to provide a dedicated workspace for women advocates and further enhance the professional working environment within the court complex. The inauguration was attended by the Principal District & Sessions Judge, Baramulla, Jawad Ahmad; Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Dr. S.F. Hamid; Senior Superintendent of Police Baramulla, Gurinderpal Singh; Judicial Officers, senior officers of the Civil Administration and Police, and members of the Bar Association Baramulla. Interacting with members of the Bar Association Baramulla, the Judge appreciated the vital role of advocates in the justice delivery system and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation and coordination between the Bench and the Bar to ensure the effective administration of justice. The Judge also inspected the functioning of various courts at the District Headquarters and reviewed different aspects of judicial work. During her interaction with Judicial Officers, she encouraged them to continue discharging their duties with sincerity, dedication, and commitment, while stressing the need for timely disposal of cases and ensuring that justice remains accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of the people. She also held a meeting with the district administration to discuss matters relating to judicial infrastructure and other requirements of the district judiciary. Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, assured the Judge that all genuine infrastructure-related issues would be taken up on priority and addressed in a phased manner in coordination with the concerned departments. Later, accompanied by the Principal District & Sessions Judge, the Judge visited the Court Complex Sopore, where she inaugurated the newly established e-Seva Kendra to provide litigants and advocates with improved access to digital court services. During her visit to Sopore, the Judge also inspected the functioning of the courts and interacted with Judicial Officers and members of the Bar Association Sopore. She appreciated their collective efforts in ensuring the effective administration of justice and encouraged all stakeholders to continue working together to strengthen public confidence in the justice delivery system by ensuring efficient, transparent, and timely delivery of justice.
Kashmir reclaiming premier destination status: Satish Sharma
Highlights tourism, sports, anti-drug push at D2CIA conclave Industry-Govt collaboration key to J&Ks economic transformation: Wani SRINAGAR: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Science & Technology and ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, on Saturday attended the D2CIA first National Conclave 2026, where the Jammu and Kashmir Chapter []
Bukhari seeks comprehensive economic, housing package for Sgr city
Shehr-e-Khaas suffered decades of neglect; residents live in dilapidated conditions; unemployment pushing younger generation into hopelessness SRINAGAR: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari has strongly demanded a comprehensive economic and housing package for the people living in Srinagars old city. He said that the historic city has suffered decades of official neglect, leaving its []
Dr. Farooq calls for united war on drug abuse
SRINAGAR: On the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah called for a united and sustained societal movement against the growing menace of drug abuse, saying the battle cannot be won by the government alone. Dr. Farooq said that tackling substance abuse []
Mirwaiz addresses Youm-e-Ashoora gathering at Alam Sahib Narwara
Highlights spiritual significance of Ashoora, sacrifice of Imam Hussain (RA) SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Molvi Mohammad Umar Farooq addressed a large gathering on the occasion of Youm-e-Ashoora at Astan-e-Aaliya Alam Sahib, Narwara, Srinagar, where many people, including women, participated in the traditional gathering. Speaking on the significance of Youm-e-Ashoora, Mirwaiz said the day holds great importance []
NC govt remains unwavering in mission of public service, dev: Mir
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Provincial President (Kashmir), Adv. Showkat Ahmad Mir on Saturday asserted that despite operating within the constitutional and administrative constraints of a Union Territory and in the absence of restored statehood, the Omar Abdullah-led National Conference government has consistently delivered transparent, people-centric, inclusive, and accountable governance over the past []
Reviews dev works, assesses public grievances BUDGAM: Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, on Saturday visited the revered Ziyarat of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani at Dreygam in Budgam district to review the ongoing and proposed development works and interact with the local residents. During the visit, the Speaker listened to the public demands []
Itoo holds public darbar at Sailkhanen, dedicates ambulance
KULGAM: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Saturday visited Sailkhanen village in Kulgam district and held a public darbar to directly engage with the people and listen to their grievances and developmental aspirations. Addressing the gathering, the Minister said that the Omar Abdullah-led government is committed to people-centric []
Commr SMC directs timely completion of Council Hall Project
SRINAGAR: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Faz Lul Haseeb on Saturday conducted a comprehensive inspection of the ongoing Council Hall project at the SMC Headquarters to review the progress of the vital infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening the Corporations institutional capacity and enhancing public service delivery. During the inspection, the Commissioner reviewed the status of []
