Jammu & kashmir

Lady Police Follower Among 3 Held With Heroin, Pistols in Jammu

JAMMU, Oct 12: Three persons, including a woman employed as a follower in the Jammu and Kashmir Police, were arrested in two separate incidents in Jammu district, with police recovering heroin-like substances and illegal firearms from their possession. A police spokesman said approximately 15 grams of a heroin-like substance was recovered from Shameem Begum, a [] The post Lady Police Follower Among 3 Held With Heroin, Pistols in Jammu appeared first on Northlines .

Delhi on High Alert Ahead of Oppn March; Metro Gates Shut at Six Stations

NEW DELHI, Oct 12: Delhi remained on high alert for the third consecutive day on Monday, with over 30,000 police and paramilitary personnel deployed across the capital ahead of an opposition protest march to the Supreme Court against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over allegations of vote chori. The entry and exit gates at [] The post Delhi on High Alert Ahead of Oppn March; Metro Gates Shut at Six Stations appeared first on Northlines .

Dachigam National Park Shut Till Oct 31 to Protect Hangul During Rutting Season

SRINAGAR, Oct 12: Entry into Dachigam National Park has been suspended until October 31 to protect the endangered Hangul, or Kashmiri stag, from human disturbance during its ecologically sensitive rutting season. The month-long restriction applies to all visitors, tourists and other persons, except those involved in essential departmental duties, wildlife protection and management operations, emergencies [] The post Dachigam National Park Shut Till Oct 31 to Protect Hangul During Rutting Season appeared first on Northlines .

Former Minister, NC Leader Harbans Singh Dies at 84

JAMMU, Oct 12: National Conference (NC) leader and former minister Sardar Harbans Singh died at a private hospital here early Monday. He was 84. Singh, who had been unwell for some time, breathed his last around 2 am while undergoing treatment, his elder son Kulwant Singh said. His last rites will be performed at the [] The post Former Minister, NC Leader Harbans Singh Dies at 84 appeared first on Northlines .

CJP to seek permission for fresh peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar, sets 24-hour deadline

New Delhi , October 12 : Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka and Ratna Singh are set to visit Parliament Street Police Station on Monday to seek permission for a fresh peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar and demand that a date and venue be allotted within 24 hours. Ranka said Delhi Police should allocate a date for a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar within 24 hours, failing which the party would announce another protest call. In a post on X on Sunday, Ranka said, At 10AM, me, @SauravDassss, @whattalawyer and other CJP leaders will go to Parliamentary Street Police Station to get a date for a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar. @DelhiPolice can give us a date for Jantar Mantar in 24 hours, or we will give another protest call ourselves, the post read. A day earlier, CJP activist Abhijeet Dipke reiterated his commitment to continuing public demonstrations, firmly asserting that personal tragedy and political pressure will not deter his movement. In a post on X, Dipke said the activists would return to the streets, signalling that the protest would continue. Havent signed any bond that says we wont protest. We will hit the streets again, said Dipke. While, a Delhi Executive Magistrate court ordered the release of three CJP leaders, Abhijit Dipke, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, who were taken into preventive custody by Delhi Police ahead of a protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The three leaders have been directed not to indulge in any activity that may breach peace and tranquillity for the next one year as a condition of their release, according to their advocate. Today, the INDIA bloc is set to lead a protest march to the Supreme Court against the electoral irregularities and demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Officer, calling on citizens across the country to join the agitation.

Special Voter Enrolment Drive Concludes Across Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: The two-day Special Intensive Voter Enrolment Drive concluded across Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, with election officials assisting eligible citizens with voter registration, corrections to electoral records and other enrolment-related queries. Conducted on October 10 and 11, the drive was held at polling stations across the Union Territory from 9 am to 5 pm []

Son dies, father injured as dumper rams Tata Ace in Pattan

Baramulla, Oct 12: A man was killed while his father sustained injuries after a dumper collided with their Tata Ace vehicle near Hyderbeigh in Pattan area of north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Sunday night, officials said. An official said that the father-son duo sustained injuries after a dumper collided with their Tata Ace vehicle near Hyderbeigh in Pattan last night. He said the injured duo were shifted to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Pattan for treatment, where one of them succumbed to his injuries, while the other was referred to JVC Hospital for advanced treatment. The deceased was identified as Murtaza Shabir Bhat, a resident of Bijbehara in Anantnag district, while the injured was identified as his father, Shabir Ahmad Bhat, also a resident of Bijbehara. The official said the cause of the accident was not immediately known and that cognizance of the incident had been taken.(KNO)

Woman Killed, Husband Critically Injured in Anantnag Road Accident

Anantnag, Oct 12 : A woman died on spot while her husband sustained critical injuries after an i20 car hit a motorcycle at Furrah Mir Bazar area of Anantnag district. Officials said that an i20 car bearing registration number JK03M-4148 hit a motorcycle bearing registration number PB10FV-5999 at Furrah Mir Bazar, resulting in critical injuries to the bike rider and death of his wife on spot. The deceased has been identified as Fareeda Akhtar, while the injured is her husband Mohd Altaf Bhat, resident of Baihama Qazigund. The injured has been shifted to hospital for treatment. Police have taken cognizance of the incident.(GNS)

Woman Killed, Husband Injured in South Kashmir Road Accident

SRINAGAR: A woman was killed and her husband injured on Monday after a Hyundai i20 car hit their motorcycle at Furrah Bypass in the Mirbazar area of south Kashmirs Kulgam district, reports said. The accident occurred when the couple were reportedly crossing the highway on their motorcycle and the car struck them. The deceased was []

US Senators question legality of Trump's deal to allow Russian oil imports

A bipartisan group of US Senators have questioned the legality of President Donald Trump's decision to allow diesel imports from Russia, contending that it ran counter to a law banning such trade till Moscow ends the war in Ukraine. On Friday, after a phone call with Putin, Trump announced that he had struck a deal with Russia to immediately supply 300,000 tons of diesel to the US and the global marketplace. Congress explicitly banned Russian energy imports in 2022 to prevent American dollars from financing Putin's brutal war against Ukraine, US Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Richard Blumenthal, Ron Wyden (all Democrats), Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, Thom Tillis, and John Curtis (all Republicans), said in a statement here on Sunday. President Trump's decision to allow Russian diesel imports to the US runs directly counter to that law, the Senators said. Trump's decision to allow imports of Russian oil to the US and global markets came weeks after the US Congress overwhelmingly pass

Authorities Suspend Gulmarg Gondola Services for Today

SRINAGAR: The Gulmarg Gondola cable car service will remain suspended on Monday, October 12, for scheduled maintenance and technical inspection, officials said. According to a public announcement issued by the Gondola authorities, the service will remain closed for tourists and other visitors throughout the day. The maintenance and inspection will be carried out on the []

Bigg Boss 20: Qazi Touqeer Breaks Down as Salman Khan Slams Scout OP, Yung DSA Over Behaviour

SRINAGAR: Kashmiri singer Qazi Touqeer broke down in tears on Bigg Boss 20 after host Salman Khan confronted fellow contestant Scout OP over his treatment of the Srinagar-born performer, who had been unwell during the week. The emotional confrontation unfolded during the shows Weekend Ka Vaar episode, when Salman questioned Scouts conduct after he stopped []

Jammu-Srinagar Highway: Admin Issues Traffic Advisory

SRINAGAR: Traffic will be permitted in both directions on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) on Monday, October 12, subject to favourable weather and satisfactory road conditions, the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police said, advising motorists to avoid night travel due to the risk of landslides and shooting stones. Passenger vehicles, private cars and goods carriers []

Record 185.6 mm Rainfall Floods Jammu in Three Hours, Two Feared Dead

SRINAGAR: Jammu received 185.6 mm of rainfall in three hours on Sunday, breaking its 71-year October record of 160 mm set in 1955, as flooding inundated residential areas, damaged vehicles and triggered landslides at several locations. Two people lost their lives in rain-related incidents, according to officials. A 27-year-old woman went missing in Raipur Domana []

Ensure welfare schemes reach last beneficiary: Union Min in Sgr

Srinagar, Oct 11: Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Sunday said the Centre was ready to consider proposals from the Jammu and Kashmir government concerning old-age homes and other support facilities, as he underlined the need to ensure that welfare schemes reach every eligible beneficiary and that officials facilitate their effective implementation. Addressing a press conference here, the minister said that o eligible beneficiary should be left behind and called for greater awareness and accessibility so that people can avail themselves of the benefits they are entitled to. Athawale called for the implementation of provisions for persons with disabilities, including reservation in education and government employment. Referring to the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyaan, he stressed the need to improve accessibility in public buildings and facilities so that persons with disabilities can access services and public spaces independently. Accessibility is not a privilegeit is a right. Public spaces must be designed so that every citizen can use them with dignity, he said. The minister highlighted progress and achievements related to financial inclusion, self-employment, housing, healthcare, access to clean cooking fuel and support for vulnerable sections of society. Referring to the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Athawale spoke about efforts to expand access to banking services, noting that financial inclusion is the first step towards economic empowerment. The Union Minister highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, which provides collateral-free loans to eligible beneficiaries for small businesses and self-employment, enabling aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into enterprises. The Minister also referred to: Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana providing access to clean cooking fuel to women from poor households Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural and Urban) ensuring housing for all Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana offering healthcare coverage to vulnerable families UJALA Yojana promoting energy-efficient lighting Athawale highlighted the importance of skill development, entrepreneurship and support for micro, small and medium enterprises in expanding livelihood opportunities. The future belongs to those who can create jobs, not just seek them. Programmes like Mudra and skill development initiatives are empowering a new generation of self-reliant Indians, he said. The minister reiterated the importance of ensuring that welfare schemes reach eligible beneficiaries and that concerned officials should facilitate their effective implementation. Schemes are only as good as their delivery. Officials must ensure that benefits reach the last person in the queue, he said.

J&K needs Rs 1.44 lakh crore to tackle dev gaps

Srinagar, Oct 11: Jammu and Kashmir requires an estimated investment of Rs 1.44 lakh crore over five years to address deep-rooted development deficits and expand employment opportunities, according to a new research report that has identified educated youth unemployment, inadequate earnings and a weak formal economy among the region's most pressing challenges. The report, released by the Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies (RGICS), accessed by Rising Kashmir,estimates that a coordinated investment programme could generate approximately 9.27 lakh additional jobs and increase annual economic output by Rs 34,206 crore by the fifth year. However, these figures are projections under the institute's proposed development model, not jobs already created or investments committed by the government. Titled A New Vision for J&K and a New Strategy for Realising that Vision, the study examines the relationship between Jammu and Kashmir's economic structure, social development indicators and environmental resources, arguing that substantial investment alone will not deliver lasting economic progress unless it addresses the underlying weaknesses restricting employment and incomes. The findings present a picture of an economy where considerable natural resources and a large network of small enterprises coexist with limited formal employment opportunities and inadequate earnings for a significant section of the workforce. According to the study, Jammu and Kashmir had approximately 8,99,874 unincorporated enterprises, based on the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises (ASUSE) 2023. Yet the size of this enterprise base has not translated into sufficient secure and adequately paid employment. The report identifies what it describes as economic dualism: a relatively small formal sector operating alongside an extensive informal economy, where self-employment and small-scale business activity do not necessarily provide sustainable incomes. This distinction is significant in Jammu and Kashmir, where unemployment among educated young people remains a persistent concern and the availability of stable employment continues to lag behind aspirations for government and organised private-sector jobs. Rather than treating the number of enterprises as an indicator of economic strength, the study draws attention to their capacity to generate productive employment, improve household earnings and sustain business activity over time. The proposed five-year investment requirement has been estimated at Rs 1,43,849 crore, of which Rs 94,764 crore, or nearly 66 per cent, is intended for enterprise development and economic activity. Another Rs 29,953 crore has been proposed for social development, including education, healthcare and nutrition, while Rs 19,131 crore has been earmarked for environmental restoration and the regeneration of natural resources. The distribution of proposed investment indicates that enterprise development accounts for the largest share of the strategy, but the report argues that employment generation cannot be separated from improvements in human development and the protection of natural assets. It identifies deficiencies in foundational education, healthcare and nutrition as constraints that can weaken the capacity of people to participate productively in the economy. The study cites the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024, which found that only 37.8 per cent of Class V students in rural Jammu and Kashmir could read Class II-level texts, highlighting the challenge of translating school enrolment into meaningful learning outcomes. It also draws attention to worsening anaemia indicators between successive rounds of the National Family Health Survey, placing nutritional deficiencies alongside poor learning outcomes as barriers to long-term social and economic development. On employment, the institute proposes strengthening existing small enterprises rather than relying exclusively on large industrial investments to create jobs. Its strategy distinguishes between enterprises serving local demand and those capable of accessing larger metropolitan and export markets, with different approaches proposed for financing, infrastructure, technology and market access. The report argues that expanding economic activity without improving the productivity and earnings of existing enterprises could leave the structural weaknesses of the labour market largely unchanged. Under the proposed framework, approximately 9.27 lakh additional jobs could be generated over five years, equivalent to an average of about 1.85 lakh jobs annually if the projected employment gains were achieved evenly. The study also estimates that the programme could add Rs 34,206 crore to annual economic output by the fifth year. These estimates, however, depend on the implementation of the proposed interventions and cannot be treated as guaranteed employment or growth outcomes. The financial requirements are substantial. The estimated investment of Rs 1.44 lakh crore translates into an average annual expenditure of nearly Rs 29,000 crore, equivalent to approximately 11 per cent of the Union Territory's stated gross domestic product for 202526. According to the report's proposed financing structure, institutional lending would account for 40.2 per cent of the investment, followed by government contributions of 22.9 per cent and community and household contributions of 22.4 per cent. Climate finance would provide another 8.3 per cent, while philanthropy, corporate social responsibility contributions, individual giving and voluntary participation would account for the remaining share. The proposed funding structure underscores the dependence of the strategy on participation from banks, public institutions, households and other financing sources, rather than government expenditure alone. However, the report does not establish that the proposed financing has been secured or that the institutions expected to contribute have agreed to provide the required resources. The study also identifies environmental degradation as an economic concern, warning that damage to forests, water resources and agricultural land could undermine livelihoods in communities dependent on farming, horticulture and other natural-resource-based activities. It estimates that approximately 7,087 square kilometres of recorded forest land in Jammu and Kashmir lacks tree cover and proposes regeneration measures as part of its wider development framework. The institute argues that environmental restoration, social development and enterprise expansion must proceed together if investment is to generate sustainable economic benefits. The report's central concern is that development measured primarily through expenditure, infrastructure creation or the number of business establishments may not adequately reflect improvements in household incomes, employment security and living standards. Its findings also raise questions about the scale of financing and institutional coordination required to implement a development programme of this magnitude. The RGICS assessment is an independent research proposal based on existing statistical evidence and illustrative development models. It is neither a government-approved investment programme nor an official assessment of the Union Territory's funding shortfall. Whether the proposed investment could deliver the projected employment and economic gains would ultimately depend on financing, implementation capacity and measurable improvements in productivity and household earnings.

Another Crash, Another Failure of Road Safety

Two young lives were cut short, and four others were injured in a road accident at Nelipora Magam in Handwara on Sunday evening. Tahir Ahmad and Mohammad Aamir, both residents of Salkoot in Kupwara, reportedly died on the spot after an Alto collided head-on with a motorcycle. The injured have been shifted to GMC Handwara for treatment. The incident is tragic, but it is not isolated. Across Kashmir, roads continue to claim lives with alarming regularity, turning routine journeys into fatal risks. Every such accident is followed by expressions of grief, official statements and promises of inquiry. Yet, after the headlines fade, the larger questions remain unanswered: Why do these crashes keep occurring? Were the road conditions safe? Were traffic rules being enforced? Was speeding involved? Were the vehicles roadworthy? And could the tragedy have been prevented? A road accident should not be treated merely as an unfortunate event. In many cases, it is the result of a chain of failures involving reckless driving, poor road engineering, inadequate signage, weak enforcement and delayed emergency response. The loss of two residents of Salkoot must therefore prompt more than condolence messages. It should lead to a serious examination of the factors that made the collision possible and the systems that failed to prevent it. The authorities must ensure a transparent investigation into the Handwara crash. The condition of the road, visibility, speed, vehicle fitness, traffic movement and possible violations must all be examined. If negligence is established, responsibility must be fixed without favour or delay. Investigations that remain confined to paperwork cannot restore public confidence or save lives. At the same time, vulnerable stretches of road in north Kashmir require urgent attention. Proper lighting, lane markings, warning signs, speed controls and regular traffic checks are not luxuries. They are basic requirements for public safety. Roads carrying mixed traffic, including motorcycles, private cars and commercial vehicles, need sustained monitoring, especially during evening hours. There is also a pressing need for greater awareness among drivers. Speeding, dangerous overtaking, distracted driving and disregard for helmets and seat belts continue to put lives at risk. Enforcement must be firm, but it must also be consistent and impartial. The grief of the families of Tahir Ahmad and Mohammad Aamir cannot be measured. Their deaths should not become another statistic in Kashmirs growing road accident record. The Handwara tragedy must compel the administration to move from reaction to prevention. Every life lost on the road is a warning. Ignoring it is a failure of governance.

Silence Around PCOS Is a Public-Health Failure

A new study on polycystic ovary syndrome among college students in Kashmir deserves far more than a passing news headline. Its findings expose a serious public-health concern and an equally troubling failure of awareness. Of the 1,217 students surveyed, 33.6 per cent showed symptoms suggestive of PCOS, while 1.28 per cent displayed strong indicators of the condition. Though these figures do not represent clinically confirmed prevalence, they are significant enough to demand an organised institutional response. PCOS is often reduced to irregular periods, weight gain, acne or fertility concerns. Such a narrow understanding is dangerous. The disorder can affect ovulation and reproductive health, but it is also linked to insulin resistance, diabetes and potentially cardiovascular complications. The study shows that only 44.5 per cent of students knew about its association with insulin resistance, around 45 per cent were aware of the diabetes connection, and just 33 per cent knew of its possible link with heart disease. This knowledge deficit cannot be dismissed as a minor educational gap. The silence surrounding menstrual and hormonal health makes the problem worse. In many families and institutions, menstrual irregularities are normalised, ignored or discussed only in whispers. Young women may endure symptoms for years without consultation, either because they lack information or fear social judgement. A condition that requires medical attention is too often treated as an inconvenience that must simply be tolerated. Colleges, therefore, must become an important first line of awareness and early intervention. Regular health-education sessions, confidential counselling, access to qualified medical professionals and referral systems can help students recognise warning signs without stigma. Such programmes should not be limited to reproductive health. They must explain the metabolic consequences of PCOS, the importance of lifestyle management and the need for sustained monitoring. Healthcare institutions also have a responsibility to make diagnosis accessible, affordable and respectful. Screening initiatives must be clinically guided and should never turn a questionnaire-based indication into a diagnosis. At the same time, the caution against overinterpreting the study must not become an excuse for inaction. A symptom signal affecting one in three participants is too serious to ignore. The government, universities and health authorities should now collaborate on a Kashmir-wide strategy for adolescent and young womens health. Menstrual health must be brought into mainstream public-health planning, with special attention to counselling, nutrition, physical activity and early medical consultation. PCOS is not merely a private womens issue. It is a public-health challenge that affects families, education, productivity and the future wellbeing of a generation. Ignoring it will deepen the burden; informed, compassionate and timely action can prevent that burden from becoming heavier.

The Missing Industry Behind Kashmirs Apple Economy

Jammu and Kashmir's has written well its apple production success. But created a value-capture problem. The region has steadily expanded orchard productivity through high-density plantations, planting material and production subsidies, but downstream processing has not kept pace. J&K produced around 21.4 lakh tonnes of apples in 2023, yet only 23 per cent of production is processed locally, according to NITI Aayog (2026). The central question for the horticulture economy, therefore, is no longer how to produce more apples, but how to ensure that a greater share of the value generated by those apples remains within J&K. The uncomfortable part is that this is not a newly discovered problem. A study covering the 201112 apple economy estimated that 3.22 lakh tonnes of surplus Grade-C apples were available for processing, while only around 30,000 tonnes of Grade-C and culled apples were being processed into apple concentrate (Bhat et al., 2019). More than a decade later, NITI Aayog still reports that only 23 per cent of the crop is processed, together they reveal a persistent structural gap that J&K has repeatedly expanded its capacity to produce apples without building a comparable capacity to transform them. This exposes a limitation in a production-centred policy approach. Subsidising orchards and increasing productivity are relatively straightforward interventions can all be measured. Industrial value addition is more demanding. It requires processing plants, reliable electricity and logistics, quality standards, assured procurement, cold chains, skilled labour, market development and investment that can survive beyond a single harvest season. The success of horticultural policy cannot therefore be measured only by how many tonnes Kashmir produces. The farmer's position in the value chain also needs greater attention. Research on Kashmir's apple marketing system has shown that market channels, infrastructure and access to market information influence growers' share of the consumer price (Rashid et al., 2024). This means that improving production without improving the institutions through which produce is aggregated, stored, processed and sold may leave the basic distribution of value largely unchanged. While around 1520 per cent of total apple production is culled and only about 23 per cent of culled apples are processed for concentrate production, (NITI Aayog, 2026). The NITI Aayog also estimates in its 2026 report Roadmap for Horticulture Development in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, that about 60 per cent of apples are marketed outside the Union Territory. While land and policy attention have increasingly moved towards high-value horticulture, Jammu and Kashmir remains food-grain deficient. A review of the ricewheat system in Kashmir notes that the Union Territory imports around 7 lakh metric tonnes of food grains annually and links the problem partly to the shrinking area under rice and other food crops. More recent reporting puts the imbalance in sharper terms. Kashmir is reported to produce around 0.45 million tonnes of food grains against an annual requirement of 1.34 million tonnes, leaving a gap of nearly 0.89 million tonnes. The report says the gap is being met through supplies from Punjab, Haryana and other grain-producing states. The contradiction is difficult to ignore. Kashmir is increasingly specialised in a high value crop whose raw produce is extensively marketed outside the region, and it remains dependent on outside supplies for a substantial share of basic food grains. If Kashmir exports fresh and graded apples but imports a substantial share of its food grains, the region risks remaining concentrated at the lower end of multiple value chains, producing agricultural raw material while purchasing higher-value products from outside. The distinction between production and value capture is therefore central. A tonne of apples sold as raw fruit generates one set of economic returns. The same tonne transformed into concentrate, juice, pectin, cider, processed food or branded products can support a much wider industrial ecosystem. The economic objective should be to move a greater share of that transformation into Kashmir. For years, the emphasis of agricultural policy has been on increasing production new plantations, high-density orchards, improved planting material and higher yields. But an orchard cannot be the endpoint of an agricultural strategy. Every additional tonne of apples should raise a second question, where will the additional value be created? The emerging policy framework does recognise some of these requirements. NITI Aayog's Roadmap for Horticulture Development in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir @2047 proposes processing facilities, small-scale minimal-processing units, branding and GI promotion, private-sector participation and a proposed Horticulture Development Fund (NITI Aayog, 2026). The significance of the roadmap will ultimately depend on implementation. After years in which production expansion has been easier to see than downstream industrialisation, the test is whether these proposals can create a functioning value chain on the ground. The 2047 horticulture vision should therefore adopt a different set of indicators. Alongside production, J&K should track value added per tonne, the share of apples processed locally, farmer share in the final consumer price, utilisation of processing capacity, the quantity of C-grade fruit absorbed by industry, post-harvest losses, horticultural employment and the number of producer-owned enterprises operating downstream. These measures would tell us whether the region is merely producing more apples or actually building a stronger apple economy. Otherwise, the paradox remains stark: a region producing millions of tonnes of high-value fruit, processing only a tiny fraction of it locally, while importing a substantial quantity of food grains for its own consumption. The question, then, is not whether Kashmir should produce more apples. It is whether Kashmir can move beyond producing and grading apples to processing, branding and industrialising them and retain a much larger share of the value its orchards already create. (The author is a Climate Reality Leader and Masters Student at the Department of Economics, IUST. He can be reached at tuhaq220@gmail.com)

Tourism Beyond Destinations: Why Indias Next Leap Must Be Built on Partnership

India has never suffered from a shortage of destinations. What it has occasionally lacked is the institutional imagination to make the world discover them, reach them, experience them and, most importantly, return to them. Our civilisational inheritance is almost without parallel: ancient cities and living traditions, sacred landscapes and wildlife, architecture and crafts, cuisine and festivals, mountains and coastlines. Yet tourism is not created by heritage alone. A monument does not constitute a destination; a destination is an ecosystem. It is the road that leads to it, the story that precedes the journey, the hospitality that receives the traveller, the artisan who gives it authenticity, the technology that makes it discoverable, and the community whose participation determines whether tourism becomes an economic opportunity or merely an intrusion. This is why the next chapter of Indian tourism must be written not in terms of destinations alone, but in terms of partnerships. The old architecture of tourism was largely hierarchical. Governments built infrastructure, destinations were promoted, industry transported and accommodated visitors, and communities remained largely at the periphery. The new architecture must be horizontal. Government, industry, technology companies, creators, investors, States, local bodies and communities must become co-creators of the tourism experience. The distinction is more than semantic. It represents a fundamental change in how we understand development. Tourism today is no longer simply the movement of people from one place to another. It is the movement of ideas, stories, aspirations, capital and cultural influence. The traveller increasingly seeks not merely to see India but to encounter it to taste its food, understand its traditions, enter its homes, meet its artisans and participate, however briefly, in its living culture. That transformation presents India with an extraordinary opportunity. But opportunity without coordination rarely becomes outcome. The State therefore has a vital, though changing, role. Its responsibility is not to do everything; it is to make more things possible. Public investment in roads, airports, railways, sanitation, digital infrastructure, heritage conservation and civic amenities provides the foundation upon which private enterprise can innovate and invest. Political will provides continuity and direction. Industry contributes capital, managerial expertise, technology and access to markets. Communities contribute what no government or corporation can manufacture: authenticity. The real challenge is to bring these capacities together. The Ministry of Tourism s expanding engagement with industry is an attempt in this direction. Eleven strategic MoUs have been entered into, including five exchanged on World Tourism Day 2026. Their importance lies not in the documents themselves but in the capabilities they seek to connect technology, mobility, hospitality, content, digital outreach and local enterprise. Consider the changing economics of destination discovery. A generation ago, a traveller might have encountered India through a travel guide or an advertisement. Today, a destination can enter the global imagination through a film, a streaming platform, a creator s narrative or an image encountered on a mobile phone. The collaboration with Netflix demonstrates this new grammar of destination promotion, bringing India s culture, wildlife and mountain landscapes to international audiences. Flavours of India, showcased at ITB Berlin 2026, and promotional campaigns in London and New York illustrate how the geography of tourism is increasingly preceded by the geography of storytelling. But storytelling must eventually lead to a reason to travel. This is where the next generation of partnerships becomes significant. Project Varanasi Priceless, developed with Mastercard, moves beyond advertising towards an experience that can actually be discovered and booked: the Ganga at sunrise, classical music, conversations around literature, Banarasi weaving communities and heritage stays. The significance of such an initiative is that Varanasi is presented not as a monument to be photographed but as a civilisation to be experienced. This distinction should inform our entire tourism strategy. India must move from selling attractions to curating experiences. Air connectivity is an equally important part of this architecture. Partnerships with Alliance Air, Air India and IndiGo extend Incredible India into the passenger ecosystem itself, bringing destination promotion into flights, digital platforms and international markets. Technology adds another dimension: intelligence. The future tourism system must increasingly understand who is travelling, what travellers seek, where demand is emerging and how preferences are changing. The collaboration with Google India, including capacity-building and work towards understanding global travel demand and traveller behaviour, points towards a tourism policy that can become progressively more evidence-led. Yet the most consequential transformation may occur far away from the traditional tourism centres. If tourism is to become genuinely inclusive, the village must become as important to tourism policy as the metropolitan gateway. The homestay can become as important as the hotel. The artisan can become as important as the attraction. The local entrepreneur can become as important as the large operator. Partnerships involving Airbnb, Soul of India and MakeMyTrip are attempting precisely this democratisation of opportunity equipping homestay hosts with digital capabilities, giving lesser-known destinations greater visibility and connecting unexplored villages with creators and bookable accommodation. The underlying proposition is profound: when a destination enters the traveller s imagination, the economic opportunity it creates must enter the lives of the people who give that destination its identity. This is the true test of tourism-led development. Visitor numbers alone cannot be the measure of success. We must ask a more searching question: Who benefits when a destination succeeds? Does the artisan earn more? Does the young person find an opportunity locally? Does the woman entrepreneur gain a market? Does the community acquire an incentive to preserve its cultural and natural inheritance? Does the traveller leave with a deeper understanding rather than merely a photograph? If the answer to these questions is affirmative, tourism becomes more than an industry. It becomes an instrument of cultural confidence and distributed economic development. India s lesser-known destinations offer an especially significant opportunity in this regard. Technology can bring them to younger audiences; mobility can make them accessible; private investment can create appropriate infrastructure; and community participation can ensure that growth does not come at the cost of identity. Initiatives supporting community-led heritage tourism in the Himalayas, including the documentation of oral traditions, crafts and indigenous knowledge, demonstrate how tourism can become an ally of preservation rather than its adversary. But partnership must not become another bureaucratic vocabulary for signing agreements. An MoU is only a beginning. The real partnership begins when an agreement produces a product, when a campaign produces a traveller, when a traveller produces local income, and when that income produces greater community ownership of the destination. Industry associations and the travel trade therefore remain indispensable. Their knowledge of markets, travellers, itineraries and distribution can convert aspiration into actual journeys. States and local institutions, meanwhile, determine the quality of the experience on the ground. The future of Indian tourism will consequently depend upon our ability to dissolve old institutional boundaries between government and industry, Centre and States, technology and tradition, global platforms and local communities. Varanasi offers a glimpse of this possibility: storytelling, music, heritage, weaving, hospitality and technology converging around a single destination. The larger lesson is unmistakable. India does not need merely more tourists. It needs a stronger tourism society. A society in which the citizen sees tourism not as an industry belonging to someone else, but as an opportunity in which he or she has a stake. A society in which public investment creates the platform, private investment multiplies possibilities and community participation gives development legitimacy. The tourism destination of the future will therefore not be a place marked on a map. It will be a network of relationships. And India s competitive advantage may ultimately lie not merely in the magnificence of what we possess, but in our capacity to bring together the many people and institutions capable of transforming that inheritance into an experience the world values. The question before us is no longer whether India has enough to offer the traveller. It plainly does. The question is whether we can build the partnerships necessary to ensure that every journey into India becomes a journey into its civilisation and that the prosperity generated by that journey reaches the people who keep that civilisation alive. (The author is Union Minister for Culture & Tourism. Courtesy: PIB)

Punjabi and Dogri: Historical Connections, Linguistic Similarities and Independent Identity

Introduction Indias linguistic and cultural diversity is one of its greatest strengths. The history of Jammu and Punjab is not limited to geographical boundaries; the two regions share centuries-old social, cultural, commercial and linguistic connections. The relationship between Punjabi and Dogri is particularly important for understanding this shared heritage. Both Punjabi and Dogri belong to the Indo-Aryan language family. They share numerous words, certain similarities in pronunciation and evidence of historical cultural interaction. However, Dogri also possesses its own literary tradition, distinctive grammatical features and separate cultural identity. Therefore, understanding the relationship between these languages requires acknowledging both their similarities and their individual characteristics. 1. Historical Background: The Connection Between Language, Geography and Civilisation The regions of Punjab and Jammu have historically served as important centres of social and cultural interaction in northern India. Trade routes, religious pilgrimages, military movements, migration and matrimonial relationships brought the people of these regions into contact with one another. Linguistic exchange developed naturally in the plains of Jammu and the neighbouring areas of Punjab. Meanwhile, Dogri and other Pahari linguistic traditions evolved in the hilly regions of Jammu. Geographical proximity encouraged similarities in everyday vocabulary, expressions, folk songs and patterns of speech. Languages do not develop overnight. They evolve over centuries through social interaction, historical events and shared cultural experiences. The relationship between Punjabi and Dogri is also the result of this historical process. 2. Is Dogri a Dialect of Punjabi? This question has long been discussed in linguistic studies. In some earlier linguistic surveys, Dogri was classified alongside northern varieties closely associated with Punjabi. Early studies, including George Griersons Linguistic Survey of India, played an important role in documenting and classifying the languages of northwestern India. However, deciding whether a language is a dialect of another cannot be based solely on similarities in vocabulary. Several factors must be considered, including grammar, phonology, historical development, literary traditions, the identity of the linguistic community and language standardisation. Dogri has its own rich tradition of folk literature, poetry, songs, drama and modern writing. Its speakers have preserved their linguistic traditions across generations. In recognition of this distinct development and cultural identity, Dogri is now recognised as an independent language. It is therefore more accurate to describe Punjabi and Dogri as closely related languages rather than reducing Dogri to merely a dialect of Punjabi. 3. Dogris Constitutional Recognition in India The constitutional recognition of Dogri represents an important milestone in its history. In 2003, Dogri was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India through the 92nd Constitutional Amendment. Bodo, Maithili and Santhali were also included through the same amendment. This recognition strengthened Dogris linguistic and literary standing at the national level. It was also an important achievement for the people of Jammu who had long worked to preserve and promote their mother tongue. One point must be clearly understood: constitutional recognition does not mean that a language has no historical relationship with other languages. Rather, it acknowledges the importance and distinct identity of that language within Indias constitutional framework. 4. Linguistic Similarities Between Punjabi and Dogri (a) Similarities in Vocabulary Punjabi and Dogri share numerous words used in everyday life. Some words are identical, while others have similar forms or pronunciation. English Meaning| Punjabi| Dogri: Common or Related Form Water| Paani. Mine/My| Mera. Night| Raat / Ratti, depending on usage. Eye |Ankkh / related regional forms. Hand|Hatth / related regional forms. These examples indicate linguistic closeness between the two languages. However, Dogri vocabulary and pronunciation vary across different areas. A particular regional form should not automatically be treated as the only standard form throughout the language. (b) Tonality and Pronunciation Punjabi is well known for its tonal characteristics. Certain varieties of Dogri also exhibit tonal and phonetic features that offer interesting points of comparison with neighbouring languages. Nevertheless, the sound systems of Punjabi and Dogri are not identical. They differ in several respects, including pronunciation, vowel patterns and the use of consonants. (c) Folk Songs and Folk Culture The relationship between languages cannot be understood through grammar and dictionaries alone. Folk songs, wedding songs, heroic ballads, religious compositions and songs associated with rural life are also valuable sources for studying historical interaction. Many folk traditions of Punjab and Jammu address similar themes, including family relationships, love, bravery, nature, agriculture and community life. These similarities may reflect shared regional experiences and centuries of cultural exchange. At the same time, Dogri has its own distinctive folk-music traditions, just as Punjabi has its own unique musical and literary heritage. Any comparison must respect this diversity. 5. Major Differences Between Dogri and Punjabi (a) Linguistic Classification Punjabi is classified among the northwestern Indo-Aryan languages, whereas Dogri is generally associated with the Western Pahari linguistic group. Dogri also has historical linguistic connections with Himachal Pradesh and neighbouring hill regions. Linguistic classifications may differ in certain respects depending on the scholars and criteria used. Nevertheless, modern linguistic studies recognise the distinctive features of Dogri and its status as an independent language. (b) Differences in Script The writing traditions of Punjabi and Dogri also reflect their different historical journeys. - Punjabi: In India, Punjabi is written primarily in the Gurmukhi script, while in Pakistan, it is predominantly written in the Shahmukhi script. - Dogri: Historically, Dogri has been associated with the Takri script. Today, Devanagari is its principal standardised writing script. Differences in scripts are an important aspect of linguistic identity, but script alone does not determine whether a language is independent. Several languages can share the same script, while one language may also be written in multiple scripts. (c) Grammar and Sentence Structure Punjabi and Dogri share certain grammatical features, but they also differ in pronouns, verb forms, case markers and sentence structures. These differences reflect their historical development and their respective linguistic environments. Consequently, it is not scientifically sufficient to classify two languages as identical merely because they share certain words or sentences. Such a conclusion requires systematic linguistic comparison and historical evidence. 6. The Importance of Dogri in Jammus Cultural Identity Dogri is an important pillar of Jammus cultural identity. Its literature and oral traditions preserve the regions historical memories, heroic narratives, family relationships and social experiences. Dogri literature has provided a voice to the emotions, experiences and cultural heritage of Jammu. Poets, writers, folk singers and literary figures have made significant contributions to enriching the language. Preserving Dogri is not merely an effort to protect a language; it is also a way of transmitting Jammus cultural heritage to future generations. Encouraging Dogri in schools, literary institutions, digital platforms, folk music and everyday family communication can help strengthen its future. At the same time, studying Dogris historical connections with Punjabi and other regional languages is equally important. Strengthening the identity of one language does not require denying its historical relationships with others. 7. Balancing Linguistic Similarity and Cultural Identity The relationship between Punjabi and Dogri teaches us an important lesson: linguistic similarity and independent identity are not contradictory. Two languages may share words, have mutually understandable expressions and possess common folk traditions. Yet each may have its own literature, grammar, history and cultural significance. The beauty of Indias linguistic diversity lies in the ability of different languages to learn from one another while preserving their distinctive characteristics. The relationship between Punjabi and Dogri should be understood within this broader perspective. Respecting Dogris independent identity and studying its historical connections with Punjabi are equally important objectives. Both can be pursued through linguistic evidence, literary history and cultural research rather than relying solely on emotional or political claims. Conclusion The historical, linguistic and cultural relationship between Punjabi and Dogri is an important subject of study. The two languages share numerous similarities, but each also possesses distinctive features and its own literary traditions. The inclusion of Dogri in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India in 2003 was a significant milestone in the national recognition of its distinct linguistic identity. It was also an important achievement in preserving the cultural heritage of Jammu. Today, Dogri deserves greater encouragement in education, literature, folk culture and the digital world. At the same time, research into the historical relationship between Punjabi and Dogri should continue so that future generations can understand this linguistic heritage in its proper historical context. The similarities between Dogri and Punjabi tell the story of historical interaction, while their distinctive features reflect the richness of Indias linguistic diversity. Respecting our own language while honouring the heritage of other languages is the true strength of our shared cultural tradition. (The Author is a columnist)

The Burden of Intellectual Elitism in Kashmir

Education is a blessing that ought to be a means of personal growth, intellectual development, and service to humanity. However, in Kashmir, it is increasingly treated as a means to measure social prestige and superiority over others. A persons worth is often judged by the degree they hold, the profession they pursue, and the marriage prospects their qualifications and professions can secure. This mind-set reflects a form of intellectual elitism: the belief that certain academic fields and professions make those who pursue them superior to others and inherently more intelligent, capable or worthy than others. This attitude manifests itself in snobbery, condescension especially towards those people who lack any formal training in any professional field. There is also a growing emphasis on medicine, pressure to pursue it as a route to societal acceptance and a tendency to belittle students who choose humanities, arts or social science. In many Kashmiri households, society has become an authority almost like God. This is not a theological statement but a depiction of a concerning social reality in which the approval of society becomes the ultimate benchmark of success. Education, which ought to sharpen our conscience, consciousness, cultivate responsibility, broaden horizons, is reduced to a means of fulfilling societys expectations. The Quran repeatedly calls upon human beings to reflect, understand, and consider the signs of creation by using Aql (intellect). Yet the value of learning can be obscured when its objective becomes earning praise from society. Paradoxically, Kashmiri society, consciously or unconsciously claims to uphold Islamic values. The Islamic intellectual heritage of 14th century Kashmir offers a reason to ponder on the purpose of knowledge. The Sufi traditions associated with regions Islamic history cannot be reduced to mere outward religious practices but also encompass intellectual and cultural advancements. Similarly, the intellectual traditions of Abbasid period, golden period of Islam, encompassed fields such as mathematics, medicine, astronomy, geography, philosophy alongside religious scholarship. These examples remind us that learning was not about societal approval but a means to develop oneself and contribute to society. The question for contemporary Kashmiri society to ponder over is not simply securing the academic degrees that lead to prestige and higher income but whether our understanding of education still values creativity, inquiry, service, and moral responsibility. The Commercialization of Education and the Fascination with Social Prestige A pressing concern in contemporary Kashmir about education is the association between academic achievement and material success. Financial independence is no doubt a necessity and there is nothing wrong with parents wanting their children to become financially secure. However, the problem arises when education is valued only for the status and income it can provide, particularly when its rewards are reduced to a narrow selection of socially celebrated professions. Children are encouraged to pursue education less for their personal and intellectual growth and more for the recognition that a particular academic Degree can bring to their families. A daughters admission to a medical college or a sons success in KAS exams may become a source of family pride. These professions are no doubt valuable, but the social prestige associated with it should not reduce their qualifications as family trophies for display or make other career choices seem inferior. This is where the difference between intellectual elitism and education becomes significant. Education should help children discover their potential, increase calibre, make them humble and respect others regardless of their status but intellectual elitism launches a hierarchy of human worth based on academic and professional labels. A doctor in Kashmir is celebrated while a PhD student of History, Political Science etc may be overlooked. A civil servant aspirant may be admired for the ambition, while someone choosing to be a 10+2 teacher may be considered insufficiently ambitious. The value of a person is tied to the recognition attached to their profession. Such an attitude does not only influence career decisions but also shapes how children see themselves and become judgemental. The Culture of MBBS: When One Profession Becomes an Obligation One of the clearest examples of intellectual elitism in Kashmir is the overwhelming cultural emphasis on MBBS. Medicine is undoubtedly a valuable profession. Doctors serve communities and lessen suffering in ways that deserve respect. The problem is not the profession itself, but the assumption that someone who does not pursue MBBS cannot embody intelligence, achievement or bring pride to their parents. For most of the Kashmiri children, studying medicine is not presented as a career option, but as an inevitable part of life. The pressure can be heard in day-to-day life: This person is a doctor. Our neighbours daughter has secured highest position in NEET. You must do it anyhow. It will measure your worth. It will make us proud. These statements may come from good intentions. Parents want their children to have a means of earning a livelihood, particularly in a world where financial demands extend beyond basic necessities. However, their repeated emphasis can transform a childs educational journey into an obligation enforced by others. Students passionate about other fields may be perceived as less intelligent or discouraged to work hard. The tragedy is not that someone does not become a doctor, but that many children are made to feel that they must become one to please society and prove their worth. Educational institutions, especially coaching centres, reinforce MBBS as the best career path. When students fail to secure admission to medical colleges in Kashmir despite dedicating years to this taxing field, the emotional toll can be immense. Families adhere to this dream by sending their children abroad. Countries like Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan and Iran have become places to escape the shame and raise high in the society. Additionally, when a profession is imposed through constant comparison, even a child who might develop a genuine interest in medicine may begin to associate it with anxiety, pressure, inevitability, fear of failure and the prospect of disappointing their family. Concurrently, the primary motivation to pursue a profession that demands patience, compassion, intellectual curiosity and commitment should not be merely social expectations. The same pressure can affect arts students who are expected to pursue civil services because teaching, research or other careers are insufficiently distinguished. Instead of letting them explore the diversity of careers, they are pushed towards another socially acceptable destination. This does not celebrate education; but it reduces it to competition for status. Intellectual Elitism and Marriage In many Kashmiri households, intellectual elitism is deeply intertwined with marriage expectations. Marriage prospects are closely associated with wealth, the socially acceptable status of bride or groom, and of course, the family surname. High profile occupations, particularly those linked to medicine and civil services, can carry considerable weight when looking for a match. These factors often overshadow character, mutual respect and compatibility making professional prestige measure of personal worth. A daughter may repeatedly hear that she must study, secure a respectable profession and become financially independent so that she secures a socially prestigious marriage. Yet, history demonstrates that marital success has never depended solely on the professional status of the couple. Additionally, there is an important truth within these concerns: education prevents economic vulnerability, while financial independence provides financial security and allows people to contribute to families and societies. However, this message becomes distorted when children are taught that their dignity, security and future relationships depend on attaining a social status. A familiar saying attributed to Kashmiri mothers captures this attitude: Goadue likhyu paryu, banyu kenh, patt chie evaa baden baden doctoran hend rishtie (Pursue your education, then get a good job; once you are financially independent, you will get marriage proposals from affluent doctors) Moreover, the problem is not parents wanting their children to marry educated or financially independent prospects. It is the idea imposed on them that education is a route for acquiring a higher status spouse and that a persons own professional identity is valuable partly because of the marriage paths it opens. Especially, when it comes to daughters, their achievements risk becoming credentials in the marriage market rather than reflecting their intellectual development, personal agency, or the true value of their education. Likewise, men seeking financially independent women as an addition to their own financial standing, rather than recognizing them as individuals with their own independent aspirations and deserving of equal respect. Hence, Kashmiri parents must ask themselves whether they are educating their daughters to become independent human beings or merely preparing them to meet the standards of a prestigious marriage. Education in Islam: A Responsibility, not a Display of Superiority The understanding of knowledge in Islam extends beyond academic achievement and emphasizes the pursuit of meaningful knowledge, the importance of teaching, and the development of moral character alongside intellectual growth. A narration from 'Abdullah bin 'Amr describes Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encountering two gatherings in the mosque: one reciting Qur'an and supplicating to Allah, and the other learning and teaching. He praised both the gatherings but said of the latter, Verily I have been sent as a teacher. He then joined those learning and teaching. (Sunan Ibn Majah) The narration above emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and sharing it with others. It is a virtuous act that Islam encourages everyone to pursue. The Quranic concepts of reflection, justice, understanding the signs of creation invite people to approach the world with intellectual curiosity and moral responsibility. The natural sciences, human sciences, humanities, and religious studies can all help us understand and contribute to the various facets of human existence, even though they dont answer the same questions or run through same methods. The pursuit of knowledge should deepen a persons understanding and a sense of responsibility before Allah, not encourage a feeling of superiority over others. No academic field be it medicine, religion, or social science automatically makes a person humble or superior. No doubt, knowledge is meant to cultivate ethics in us, but ultimately, how we behave after acquiring knowledge depends on our inner disposition, conscience, conduct and free will that Allah has bestowed upon us. This is a significant distinction that parents must learn to inculcate in their children. Education should not be pursued to defeat relatives, silence critics or establish dominance in society. It should be pursued to seek true knowledge, value that knowledge, develop ones intellect, earn a lawful livelihood and contribute to the well-being of others, because knowledge is both virtue and worship before Allah. The Psychological Cost of Intellectual Elitism Intellectual elitism can also affect youths emotional development. Youths relationship with education can become dominated by fear when their self-worth is tied to academic results. An examination becomes a quick judgement for their intelligence, social standing and family honour rather than an opportunity to demonstrate learning. Competitive exams like NEET or civil services exam involve demanding preparation and uncertain results. Yet, failure, which is a possible part of any competitive process, can become difficult to cope with when students results are treated as a reflection of the entire familys prestige, leaving the student in a quandary about their own worth and identity. Constant comparisons can also create a sense of inadequacy, disregard and jealousy. They discourage intellectual curiosity, and children may begin to see their peers as rivals. Hence, forcing young people to pursue something that will prevent them from criticism should not be justified. Additionally, the inability of Kashmiri parents to accept failure discourages students from taking intellectual risks. They may avoid exams because they are taught that their worth depends on never failing, making them image conscious. Yet learning requires the freedom to ask questions, make mistakes and try again. Parents can have high expectations without making children's love and dignity conditional on material achievement. Resilience grows when children are taught to face setbacks constructively. Education should not merely prepare them to succeed in exams, but also help them become individuals capable of facing uncertainty, learning from mistakes and making responsible decisions. Reclaiming the Purpose of Education Kashmir needs to reflect on the education culture it is creating. When youngsters are encouraged to pursue education primarily for personal pride and prestige, purpose of education turns an individual possession rather than a means of contributing to society at large. Inherently, there is nothing wrong with personal achievement, ambition or financial success. These can be valuable and compatible with Islamic ethics, but the concern lies in the absence of broader purpose behind education. Kashmiri parents and teachers can encourage youngsters to pursue knowledge to address the social challenges, grow as an indispensable part of society, develop conscience, rather than simply secure recognition and status. These expectations can pass from one generation to the next. A child repeatedly taught that true success in life is measured by being a doctor may grow up imposing the same mind-set in their children. Similarly, someone made to feel inferior for opting a field other than medicine may unknowingly pass the same prejudice to their children. Intellectual elitism therefore can become an intergenerational pattern. The change begins with a different understanding of achievement. Earning a livelihood is important and education helps us attain it. Academic excellence deserves acknowledgement, but a person without a degree can possess integrity and wisdom. Hence, Kashmiris need not to abandon academic excellence, ambition, the pursuit of financial independence or the respect for medicine, and civil services. What needs to change is the hierarchy through which society assigns worth to individual and disciplines. Educational achievement should not be confused with human superiority. If we genuinely want to reclaim the Islamic value of knowledge, we must teach young people to pursue it with humility rather than using it as a tool for self-glorification. The question is not whether we become doctors, engineers, civil servants or teachers. The question is whether we are learning ethics through the pursuit of these professions. Perhaps the first place to begin is not our schools or universities but our homes, in the language we use with our children. (The Author is a graduate of International Islamic University Malaysia)

Omar condemns police assault on Rajya Sabha MP during Delhi protest

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday said the use of force by the Delhi Police to deal with unarmed protestors is unacceptable. Unacceptable use of force by Delhi Police. Beating up an unarmed protester, setting aside the fact that in this case the victim is actually an elected member of Parliament, []

Tanvir Sadiq calls for allergy-safe schools

Pledges CDF support for government schools in Zadibal Promises to pursue legislation for mandatory availability of adrenaline injections SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq attended the CME Allergy Alert: Alleviating Allergies The Safe School Revolution: From Awareness to Action as Chief Guest, held on the eve []

Omar govt committed to improving healthcare: MLA Shameema

Inaugurates IVF Centre &Diagnostic Lab SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Womens Wing President and MLA Habba Kadal, Advocate Shameema Firdous Sunday said the elected National Conference government has accorded special priority to improving the education and healthcare sectors. She said that the healthcare sector had faced several challenges after August 5, 2019, with []

Former Ganderbal Municipal chairman joins JKPC

Srinagar, Oct 11: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference President and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone on Sunday welcomed Hilal Ahmad Tantray, former Municipal Chairman of Ganderbal, into the party fold at a gathering attended by senior party functionaries, marking a fresh addition to the partys organisational presence in the district. The induction took place in the presence of State Secretary (Organisation) Sheikh Imran, State Secretary Abbas Wani, State Spokesperson Muneeb Quraishi and Tasaduq Yasin, Political Secretary to the party president. Tantray was accompanied by several prominent political associates, including former Sarpanch Manzoor Ahmad Mir, Mushtaq Ahmad Mir, Abdul Rashid Shah, Ajaz Ahmad Rather, Ajaz Ahmad Lone, Sajad Ahmad Rather, Tariq Ahmad Mir, Javid Iqbal Mir, Basharat Nazir, Nazir Ahmad Lone, Mohd Sultan Khanday and Mushtaq Ahmad Dar. Welcoming Tantray and his associates, Lone described their induction as a reflection of the partys expanding grassroots appeal, asserting that the growing participation of leaders with established public connections underscored the JKPC's increasing acceptance among the people. The growing acceptance of our party among the masses is evident in the way leaders with a proven grassroots presence are choosing to join us. Hilal Ahmad Tantray and his colleagues bring valuable experience and a strong connect with the people, qualities that will further consolidate the partys organisational strength and deepen its engagement with the public, Lone said. Reaffirming the partys commitment to inclusive politics, Lone assured the new entrants of due recognition, respect and meaningful participation in the partys political and organisational affairs. He emphasised that the Peoples Conference would continue to champion the aspirations of the people and provide a platform for their concerns and expectations. Expressing gratitude to the party leadership, Tantray thanked Lone and the senior functionaries for the warm reception and the confidence reposed in him and his associates. I thank President Sajad Lone and the entire party leadership for the warmth, trust and confidence extended to us. We are committed to working wholeheartedly towards strengthening the party and serving the people of Ganderbal with dedication, he said.

Ten arrested, narcotics seized in Anantnag anti-drug operations

ANANTNAG: Continuing its sustained crackdown on drug trafficking, Anantnag Police intensified naka checking, patrolling and surveillance across the district. The operations resulted in the arrest of ten alleged drug peddlers in separate incidents and the seizure of a substantial quantity of suspected narcotic substances. During naka checking at Lessu, a police party from Larnoo Police []

Police conduct counter-terrorism mock drill at Aharbal tourist destination

KULGAM: Police conducted a counter-terrorism mock drill at the Aharbal tourist destination to assess operational readiness, response preparedness and coordination among security agencies in a simulated security scenario. The exercise was held under the supervision of SSP Kulgam and led by DySP Operations Manzgam. It involved SHO Manzgam, SOG Manzgam, Markhor Manzgam and the CRPFs []

Govt College of Edu celebrates World Mental Health Day

SRINAGAR: The Government College of Education (Institute of Advanced Studies in Education), Cluster University Srinagar, celebrated World Mental Health Day 2026 in the College Auditorium. The programme aimed to raise awareness about the importance of mental health, promote emotional well-being, and encourage students to develop a supportive and empathetic attitude towards individuals experiencing mental health []

JKRLM kick-starts 3-day UT-level training program on Village Prosperity Resilience Plan

SRINAGAR: The Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) kickstarted a comprehensive three-day Union Territory-level training programme on Village Poverty Reduction Plan (VPRP). The capacity-building initiative aimed to equip key resource persons, district teams, and block mission coordinators with the technical frameworks necessary to streamline community-driven rural development across J&K. Operating under the guidelines of []

Police organise drug abuse, gender sensitisation prog

BARAMULLA: As part of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, Police in Baramulla, through Police Station Chandoosa, organised a Drug Abuse and Gender Sensitisation Programme at Murtaza Memorial Educational Institute, aimed at educating students about the adverse consequences of drug abuse and promoting gender equality, mutual respect and social responsibility. During the programme, students were sensitised []

Bukhari mourns womans death in Noorbagh fire

Srinagar, Oct 11: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Sunday expressed grief over the death of a woman in a fire incident at Noorbagh in Srinagar, where she reportedly jumped from a three-storey residential building in an attempt to escape the flames. In a post on X, Bukhari described the incident as tragic and extended his condolences to the bereaved family. Saddened by the tragic death of a woman in a fire incident at Noorbagh, Srinagar. As the fire engulfed her three-storey residential house, she jumped from the building in an attempt to save her life but tragically lost her life, he wrote. The Apni Party chief expressed sympathy with the family and prayed for strength and patience for those mourning the loss. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. May Almighty Allah grant them strength and patience to bear this immense loss, and may the departed soul rest in eternal peace, Bukhari said.

Ease of business must not endanger homes: Para

Srinagar, Oct 11: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Waheed ur Rehman Para on Sunday criticised the Jammu and Kashmir government's new ease-of-doing-business laws, alleging that the relaxation of building and land-use regulations could expose residential neighbourhoods to unchecked commercial activity and increase environmental and flood-related risks. Para questioned the government's justification for the changes, saying measures presented as business reforms could weaken planning safeguards and allow commercial establishments to operate in residential areas. We opposed the new laws brought in by the J&K government, and I will say why again. They are calling it ease of doing business. Look at what it actually does, Para said. He claimed the new provisions would permit shops and other commercial activities within residential localities, with restrictions largely confined to Red and Orange category industries and certain activities, including storage, freight operations, nightclubs and liquor shops. Everything else can open next to your house, he said, warning that the changes could alter the character of residential neighbourhoods. The PDP leader also raised concerns over provisions relating to building permissions, claiming that residential structures up to 24 metres in height and 5,000 square metres in size could be constructed without floor area ratio (FAR) or ground coverage restrictions, subject to certification by a government-approved consultant. He further alleged that commercial buildings, including malls of similar dimensions, could be developed without prior government approval. Para questioned whether consultant certification could provide adequate scrutiny in the absence of conventional regulatory oversight. Who checks the person who signs the certificate? A signed paper is not oversight, he said. Referring to the devastating floods of 2014, Para warned that weakening land-use and construction safeguards could aggravate risks in areas already vulnerable to flooding. We lived through the 2014 floods. We know what happens when drains choke and wetlands and floodplains are built over. These laws make that risk bigger, he said. He maintained that unregulated construction and commercial expansion could put pressure on drainage networks, residential infrastructure and environmentally sensitive areas. The PDP leader said investment and business development were necessary but should not come at the expense of public safety, environmental protection and planned urban growth. Investment is welcome, but not at the cost of people's homes and safety. Planning rules are there to protect us. Remove them, and we pay for it the next time the water rises, Para said. His remarks come amid concerns over the implications of regulatory changes for urban planning and environmental protection in Jammu and Kashmir. The claims regarding permissible building heights, exemptions and approval requirements are Para's interpretation of the new provisions and have not been independently verified against the notified rules.

Mehbooba flags risks of high-rise construction

Srinagar, Oct 11: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday raised concerns over the opening up of agricultural land and orchards in Jammu and Kashmir for commercial high-rise construction, warning that such development could threaten food security and expose people to serious seismic risks. In a post on X, the former chief minister questioned the government's development approach, alleging that agricultural and horticultural land was being made available for commercial construction despite warnings about earthquake-related hazards. In the name of development, J&Ks orchards and agricultural land are being opened up for commercial high rises, even as experts warn of catastrophic seismic and liquefaction risks, Mehbooba said. She described the alleged changes as a threat not only to the region's agricultural resources but also to the safety of people living in areas vulnerable to natural disasters. This is not development. It is a dangerous betrayal of our land, our food security and our peoples lives, she said. The PDP president also questioned accountability in the event of a disaster arising from construction in vulnerable areas. Who will take responsibility when this reckless experiment turns into a disaster? she asked. Her remarks come amid criticism of changes to building and land-use regulations in Jammu and Kashmir, with opposition leaders questioning their implications for urban planning, agricultural land protection and environmental safety. However, Mehbooba did not identify specific projects or provide details of the expert assessments referred to in her post. Her claims regarding the extent of land opened for commercial construction remain unverified.

Jitendra Singh felicitates Kashmiri youth Faheem Nazir after alleged Delhi assault

New Delhi, Oct 11: Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office Jitendra Singh felicitated Srinagar youth Faheem Nazir, who was allegedly assaulted in Delhi after raising slogans in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a meeting with a BJP Minority Morcha delegation. The delegation, led by BJP Minority Morcha national president Kunwar Basit Ali, met Singh and apprised him of the incident involving Nazir, according to a statement issued by the party's minority wing. During the interaction, Singh heard Nazir's account of the alleged assault, appreciated his courage and felicitated him for standing by his political views despite the incident, the statement said. The meeting comes days after Nazir was allegedly attacked in Delhi following an exchange with people attending an event in the presence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The BJP Minority Morcha has accused persons associated with the Congress of involvement in the assault and demanded a fair and impartial investigation. The allegation against Congress-linked persons has not been independently established. According to the statement, Singh listened to Nazir's account of the incident and acknowledged his decision to express his political views despite the alleged intimidation. Basit Ali said every citizen had the constitutional right to support a political leader of their choice and express opinions without fear of violence. He maintained that political differences should be addressed through democratic discussion rather than intimidation or physical confrontation. The BJP Minority Morcha also said members of minority communities should be free to make independent political choices and should not be treated merely as a vote bank. During the meeting, Nazir reaffirmed his commitment to India's unity, sovereignty and constitutional values, the statement said. He also expressed concern over political instability in neighbouring countries, including Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, and stressed the importance of safeguarding India's democratic institutions. Faheem Nazir is not alone. The entire nation stands with him. His courage reflects the dignity, resilience and spirit of a fearless India, the Morcha said. BJP Jammu and Kashmir State Executive Member and Minority Morcha co-incharge Aijaz Hussain also accompanied the delegation and expressed solidarity with Nazir. The Morcha reiterated its demand for an impartial investigation into the alleged assault and action in accordance with law. The statement did not provide details of any fresh action taken by investigating authorities in connection with the incident.

Pathania inaugurates two road projects in Udhampur

Udhampur: MLA Udhampur East Ranbir Singh Pathania on Sunday inaugurated two road development works aimed at strengthening rural connectivity and accelerating socio-economic development across the constituency. The projects include the laying of road base material (RBM) on the Larey-Smal to Sochi Moh Road in Panchayat Sumwal, Block Majalta, under the CD & P Budget 202627, at an estimated cost of 4.85 lakh, and the Balpur-Kamdala road project from Km 0.350 to Bani, covering a length of 4.1 kilometres, under PMGSY-IV, Batch-I, 202627, in Block Khoon, at a sanctioned cost of 887.68 lakh. Addressing the gathering, Pathania reiterated his vision of developing Udhampur East into a well-connected constituency, with a comprehensive road network reaching every corner of the region. He said road infrastructure was fundamental to economic growth, social integration and balanced regional development. He said improved road connectivity would facilitate access to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, markets, employment opportunities and other essential public services. Better roads, he added, would empower rural communities, strengthen local economies and accelerate development across various sectors. The MLA reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening road infrastructure across Udhampur East, particularly in remote and underserved areas. He said the focus remained on developing durable, all-weather roads to ensure that the benefits of development reached every household and no area was left behind. Speaking about ongoing road development works, Pathania said macadamisation of Dhar Road from Paldhai to Battal was in progress. He added that the remaining stretch from Battal to Kishanpur would be taken up shortly, with efforts underway to ensure the road was brought into proper motorable condition. He said improved connectivity was essential to address the longstanding difficulties faced by commuters and residents while facilitating the smoother movement of people and goods. The ongoing and proposed projects, he added, reflected a sustained effort to upgrade the road network and create infrastructure for long-term growth. Local residents welcomed the initiatives and expressed appreciation for the efforts being made to improve connectivity in the area. Those present on the occasion included Mohan Lal Sharma, Mandal Pradhan; Mohinder Sharma, Mandal Pradhan; Raman Khajuria; Devi Dass; Kulwant Singh; Bishan Dass; and other local residents. Pathania reiterated that the development of Udhampur East would continue to focus on public welfare, equitable growth and stronger infrastructure, with road connectivity remaining a key priority.

Dy CM rejects resignation rumours

Jammu, Oct 11: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Sunday dismissed reports of a ministerial resignation as false, saying decisions regarding the party's leadership rested with National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Speaking to reporters after visiting Bawe Wali Mata Temple on the first day of Navratri, Choudhary said no minister had resigned and urged the media to focus on public issues rather than speculation over political developments. He said people should be given accurate information and expressed concern over news coverage that, according to him, often overlooks issues affecting the public. Referring to an incident involving children in Delhi, the Deputy Chief Minister said their concerns and demands for their rights deserved attention. On questions regarding possible changes or extensions within the party, Choudhary said the final decision would be taken by Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. He expressed confidence in the party leadership, saying people had faith in their leaders, and reiterated that the media should give greater attention to public concerns and matters of wider social importance.

Free medical camp held in Budgam

Budgam, Oct 11: Jammu and Kashmir Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian, in collaboration with Salute 72 Blood Donors Group, organised a free medical camp at Imambargah Mirgund in Budgam to provide healthcare services to local residents. According to a statement, Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian President Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi Al-Safavi, accompanied by General Secretary Aga Syed Mujtaba Abbas Mosavi Al-Safavi, visited the camp and reviewed the facilities available to attendees. The Anjuman leaders appreciated the efforts of Salute 72 Blood Donors Group and other organisers, stressing the importance of community-based initiatives in improving access to healthcare and addressing public health needs at the grassroots level. They also highlighted the role of cooperation between religious and social organisations in promoting community welfare and extending humanitarian assistance. The statement said the camp was part of Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian's ongoing welfare activities, with the organisers calling for sustained collaboration among community groups to strengthen healthcare access and outreach.

Woman jumps to escape Srinagar fire, dies

Srinagar/Anantnag, October 11: A woman died after jumping from the window of a three-storey residential house while attempting to escape a fire in Jehangir Mohalla, Noorbagh, Srinagar on Sunday afternoon, while five residential houses were gutted in a separate fire incident at Thamankoot in Verinag, officials said. In the Noorbagh incident, two houses were gutted in the blaze. The woman, identified as Haleema Sheikh, wife of Gulzar Ahmad Sheikh, a resident of Noorbagh, was on the third floor of the house when the fire broke out. According to officials, she jumped from the window while trying to escape the flames and sustained critical injuries. She was immediately shifted to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, where she later succumbed to her injuries. Soon after the fire call was received by the State Fire Control Room, Batamaloo, multiple fire tenders were dispatched to the spot to bring the blaze under control. DFO Headquarters Jaffar Ahmad said around seven fire tenders were deployed at the incident site. He added that water motors were also pressed into service and 10 water pipes were laid near Cement Bridge to ensure an uninterrupted water supply for firefighting operations. An investigation has been initiated into the Noorbagh incident, and the cause of the fire is being ascertained. Meanwhile, in a separate incident at Thamankoot in Verinag, five residential houses were involved in a fire. The affected structures included three double-storey and two single-storey houses, all with galvanised corrugated iron (GCI) sheet roofing. Officials said three water tenders were deputed to the fire spot to tackle the blaze.

From a novelty to an industry: How electric hamam built a market in Kashmir

Srinagar: Fifteen years ago, selling electric underfloor heating in Kashmir often began with a simple explanation: what it was, how it worked and why a heating system installed beneath the floor could offer an alternative to conventional methods of keeping homes warm. Today, the conversation has changed. Customers ask for an Electric Hamam by name. Specialised teams install the systems across the Valley, while dealers offer products from different manufacturers and across a range of price points. The change reflects more than the growing acceptance of a heating technology. It marks the emergence of an industry around a product that was once unfamiliar to most Kashmiri households. At the centre of this evolution is The Heating Store, established in Srinagar in 2011 by Taham Mubashar, who became familiar with electric underfloor heating while studying and living in the United Kingdom. The technology was already established in international markets. Bringing it to Kashmir, however, required more than introducing a product. It meant adapting to local construction practices, understanding the demands of Kashmiri winters and explaining a relatively unfamiliar concept to customers. The term Electric Hamam helped bridge that gap, giving the technology a familiar local identity. Over time, the name became widely associated with electric underfloor heating in the Valley. But as awareness grew, the business surrounding the technology began to change, too. What had started as a specialised installation service gradually developed into a broader trade involving imports, wholesale distribution, regional dealerships and technical support. From installation to distribution In the early years, much of the work was coordinated directly from Srinagar. Each project required site inspections, heating layouts and installation supervision, often by a small team with specialised knowledge of the technology. Outside the city, experienced installers were few and organised distribution networks were limited. Customers interested in the systems often depended on Srinagar-based suppliers to guide them through the process, from product selection to installation. As demand increased, a centralised approach became less practical. The Heating Store began supplying dealers and installers across Kashmir, helping extend the market into Sopore, Baramulla, Anantnag, Budgam, Ganderbal and other areas. One such arrangement involved two engineer brothers in Sopore, who were appointed to distribute imported underfloor-heating systems in north Kashmir. Their entry illustrated a broader shift: a product that had initially depended on specialist intervention from Srinagar was beginning to create opportunities for independent regional businesses. The expansion also brought new challenges. Questions arose over installation consistency, product sourcing and the distinction between imported systems and locally manufactured alternatives. In the Sopore case, concerns about the products being supplied and adherence to the original dealership arrangement eventually led to changes in the distribution relationship and the withdrawal of certain dealership arrangements. The episode underscored an issue that would become increasingly relevant as the market grew: an Electric Hamam was not simply another electrical product that could be sold over a counter. Because the heating elements are embedded beneath a finished floor, product quality, installation standards and long-term performance are closely connected. Problems that might be straightforward to address in an ordinary appliance can become considerably more complicated once a floor has been completed. For a developing industry, establishing clear product specifications, reliable installation practices and defined after-sales responsibilities became as important as expanding sales. The technology beneath the floor An Electric Hamam is largely invisible once a project is complete. Heating cables or mats, insulation, electrical connections and temperature controls are incorporated into the floor before the final surface is laid. That makes the planning stage critical. Cable spacing, electrical loading, insulation, thermostat positioning and the floor's construction can all influence how the system performs. The layout must also account for room dimensions, fixed furniture and the electrical capacity available at the property. In other words, the finished floor conceals much of the work that determines the system's performance. As the market developed, The Heating Store expanded beyond direct installations into importing, wholesale distribution and technical support. Imported systems could be supplied to regional dealers, while product selection, system design and warranty-related assistance formed part of the wider business. The company also developed relationships with international heating manufacturers and continued to work with products serving different market segments. This broader model helped separate the functions of sourcing, distribution and installation, even as they remained closely connected. It also reflected the changing demands of a market in which customers increasingly expected greater product choice and access to specialised expertise. The rise of a specialised workforce The growth of Electric Hamam created opportunities for a category of installation work that had previously been relatively unfamiliar in Kashmir. Although the finished product may resemble a conventional heated floor, installing it involves considerably more than routine electrical work. Heating layouts must be planned before construction is completed, and the installation has to be coordinated with insulation, flooring materials and the building's electrical system. Once the floor is closed, correcting mistakes can be disruptive and expensive. Technical competence, therefore, is not merely an added service; it is a fundamental part of the product. The Heating Store says it has developed Kashmir's largest dedicated Electric Hamam installation operation, alongside its importing, wholesale and distribution activities. Its teams undertake work in individual homes as well as larger residential, hospitality and commercial projects, while regional dealers serve customers in their respective markets. This represents a substantial change from the early years, when introducing the technology and explaining its practical application were often part of the same exercise. As the market has grown, so has the need for installers who understand not just how to lay a heating cable, but how the entire system functions within a completed building. A wider dealer network, a more competitive market Greater familiarity with Electric Hamam encouraged the development of a wider dealer network. Some businesses remained associated with particular imported manufacturers, while others began offering products from multiple suppliers, including locally manufactured systems aimed at more price-sensitive customers. The result has been greater choice for buyers, alongside a more competitive market. But a wider selection of products has also made transparency more important. Customers need to know who manufactured a system, whether it is imported or locally produced, what warranty applies and which supplier or installer will be responsible if a problem arises. These distinctions matter particularly in underfloor heating, where the components are concealed and future repairs may involve disturbing the finished flooring. As the trade matured, documented supply arrangements, clearly identified products and consistent installation practices became increasingly important to the industry's credibility. According to the company, The Heating Store's network now spans more than 40 dealers across 15 cities, supported by its installation and technical operations and research and development facilities. The figures illustrate the scale of the transition: from a business built around introducing a relatively unfamiliar technology in Srinagar to a wider network of distributors, installers and competing sellers. From the Valley to markets beyond The expansion has not been limited to Kashmir. The Heating Store now undertakes heating projects elsewhere in India, while its international experience has included projects and supply-related work connected with the United Kingdom, Bhutan, Sweden and the United Arab Emirates. The company also cites a combined worldwide installed base of more than two million systems across the international brands and heating technologies represented through its wider network. These figures reflect a broader international context for the technology. Yet the more revealing story may be how electric underfloor heating developed a distinct commercial identity in Kashmir. A product familiar in overseas markets was introduced into a different building environment, given a locally recognisable name and supported by a network of businesses that could supply, install and service it. That transition required more than demand alone. It depended on the development of technical skills, supply relationships, regional distribution and customer familiarity. When a product becomes a category Electric Hamam is no longer confined to a handful of early adopters or a single specialist installer. An ecosystem has emerged around the category, bringing together importers, wholesalers, regional distributors, manufacturers, electricians, dedicated installation teams and independent dealers. Competition has widened customer choice and created opportunities for new businesses. At the same time, it has raised questions about product origin, installation quality, warranty coverage and accountability after a project is complete. The Heating Store has grown alongside this changing market, evolving from an early Srinagar installation business into what it describes as Kashmir's largest specialised Electric Hamam installation and distribution operation. Its journey forms part of a larger shift in how the technology is sold and delivered across the Valley. The industry's development is no longer measured only by the number of installations, but also by the depth of its distribution network, the availability of trained installers and the emergence of businesses operating independently within the category. In 2011, the principal challenge was persuading customers to understand electric underfloor heating. Fifteen years later, the technology has a name that customers recognise, a network that reaches beyond Srinagar and a competitive market of its own. The challenge now is different: ensuring that a rapidly expanding industry maintains the standards needed to earn and sustain customer confidence.

Man found hanging in Nagrota, declared dead

Jammu Tawi, October 11: A 33-year-old man was found hanging at his residence under suspicious circumstances in the Nagrota area of Jammu. The deceased has been identified as Masoom Ali Khan, originally from Mohalla Hardaspura, Tehsil Chamba, Mugla, and currently residing at Kamini Market in Nagrota. According to the information received, the man was found [] The post Man found hanging in Nagrota, declared dead appeared first on Northlines .

Questions over Rohingya population in Jammu?

Gurmeet Jammu Tawi, October 11: The presence of Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals in Jammu has once again become a subject of public debate, with questions being raised over their actual numbers, identification and documentation. The difference between official records and claims made by local sources has brought the issue back into focus. What [] The post Questions over Rohingya population in Jammu? appeared first on Northlines .

Jammu sees record-breaking rainfall; 2 dead, life disrupted

Heavy rain wreaks havoc in Jammu: Homes flooded, Roads turn into streams, Landslides disrupt traffic. Gurmeet Jammu Tawi, October 11: Sunday morning brought misery to residents across Jammu as heavy rainfall disrupted normal life in several parts of the city. Roads were submerged, rainwater entered homes and shops, and landslides blocked key routes, leaving [] The post Jammu sees record-breaking rainfall; 2 dead, life disrupted appeared first on Northlines .

No need to resign: Athawale backs CEC

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Navratra commences at Vaishno Devi Shrine amid heavy rush of devotees

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Jantar Mantar 2.0: 200 Protesters Arrested Despite SC Order Against Illegal Detentions

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11 Indians among 300 injured in attack at Saudi airport that killed 12

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Political Leaders Unite for Tamil Nadus Development at Major Chennai Event

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SKIMS Medical College Bemina Launches Month-Long Mental Health Awareness Campaign

Srinagar, October 11: The Department of Psychiatry at SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, has launched a month-long Mental Health Awareness Campaign from October 10 to November 10, 2026, aimed at reducing stigma, improving access to mental healthcare and incorporating the lived experiences of patients into healthcare policies and services. The campaign is being observed under the theme Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change, highlighting the importance of involving individuals who have experienced mental health challenges in shaping mental health policies, planning services and improving treatment outcomes. As part of the campaign, a team of mental health professionals led by Dr Nizam ud Din, Associate Professor of Psychiatry, along with Dr Gulzar Muzzaffar, Dr Abid Parvaiz and Mr Sameer Khan, organised an awareness-cum-treatment camp at Sub-District Hospital Tangdhar in Kupwara district. During the camp, patients were assessed, free medicines were provided to those in need, and individuals requiring long-term care were linked with the Department of Psychiatry at SKIMS Medical College for continued treatment and follow-up. The department has also initiated awareness programmes through Doordarshan, All India Radio, Greater Kashmir Communications and Red FM 93.5. Prof Abdul Majid, Head of the Department of Psychiatry and Sub-Dean at SKIMS Medical College, participated in these initiatives to promote informed public discussion on mental health. The campaign will continue until November 10, with a series of awareness activities planned in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. The initiatives aim to address stigma and discrimination faced by people living with mental health conditions and their families, while encouraging patients and individuals with lived experiences to contribute to discussions on mental healthcare policies and service delivery. Prof Abdul Majid expressed gratitude to Prof Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, Director SKIMS Soura; Prof Fazl ul Qadir Parray, Principal SKIMS Medical College; Dr Nighat Yasmeen, Director Health Services Kashmir; Dr Arif Khwaja, Block Medical Officer, SDH Tangdhar; and other concerned authorities for facilitating the initiatives. The department also highlighted the availability of a 40-bedded inpatient facility at the newly developed centre, along with diagnostic testing facilities and various interventions and procedures aimed at strengthening psychiatric care. Faculty members and staff expressed hope that the available facilities would enable patients to access comprehensive mental healthcare within Jammu and Kashmir and reduce the need to seek specialised treatment outside the Union Territory. The month-long campaign is currently underway and will conclude on November 10, 2026.

A problem of plenty in Haryana, Punjab as paddy glut sparks farmer distress

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BJP leaders Hail Modis 25 Years In Governance

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Opposition Stir Today, CJI No To Cong. Meet

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PM Modi hails NEP; Tamil Nadu CM Vijay seeks 5,110 cr in education dues

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CJI refuses to meet Rahul over

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has declined to meet Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on vote chori allegations, saying similar matters are sub judice on the judicial side in the Supreme Court, sources said on Sunday, October 11. Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, Leaders of Opposition (LoPs) in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Thackeray cousins throng Shivaji Park to back CJP stir

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Chief Justice Rejects India Bloc Leaders Plea Amid Election Controversy

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