Jammu & kashmir

Private schools launch BLS training for drivers, helpers

Budgam, Aug. 6: In a significant step towards enhancing emergency preparedness in educational institutions, the Private Schools Association Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) has launched a Basic Life Support (BLS) training programme for school drivers and helpers across the Union Territory. The initiative began with a pilot programme in Budgam district. The training programme was organised by PSAJK in collaboration with the Civil Defence and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), with participants receiving practical instruction in life-saving techniques and emergency response. Speaking to reporters on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, lauded the initiative, describing it as an important step towards strengthening safety measures in schools. The Basic Life Support training programme initiated by the Private Schools Association for school drivers and helpers is a commendable initiative. The Civil Defence and SDRF have provided professional training, equipping participants with essential skills to respond effectively during emergencies, he said. The Deputy Commissioner said that the district administration has already been conducting BLS training for Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, college and school teachers, and students. He added that the programme would be expanded in a phased manner to cover more institutions and stakeholders across Budgam district. President of the Private Schools Association Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Baba Nazrul Islam, said the association aims to extend the BLS training programme to all private schools across Jammu and Kashmir. We have selected Budgam as the pilot district for this initiative. The training will be conducted in all educational zones of the district, covering school drivers, helpers, and sports teachers. These frontline staff members will be equipped with Basic Life Support skills so that they can respond effectively during medical emergencies, Dr Islam said. He further said that, following the successful completion of the Budgam district, the programme would be rolled out across all districts of Jammu and Kashmir in a phased manner. Our objective is to ensure that drivers, helpers, and sports teachers in every private school are trained in life-saving techniques. Their preparedness can make a crucial difference during emergencies and help save lives until professional medical assistance arrives, he added.

Sakeena Itoo launches health camp, school projects at Kulgam

Kulgam, Aug 6: Minister for Health & Medical Education, School and Higher Education and Social Welfare, Sakeena Masood Itoo, on Thursday inaugurated a mega Multi-Speciality Health Camp at Khuri Batpora (KB Pora), D.H. Pora, in Kulgam district. The camp was organized through the collaborative efforts of Bal Raksha Bharat (Save the Children), Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), SKIMS Soura and office of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Kulgam under the aegis of the SAANS Campaign. The camp was aimed at improving access to comprehensive healthcare services for the rural population by providing specialized consultations, screening, diagnosis, treatment, referral services and health education under one roof. It catered to both children and adults, with a special emphasis on preventive healthcare. Addressing the gathering, Sakeena Itoo appreciated the collaborative initiative and stressed the importance of shifting the healthcare focus from treatment to prevention. She highlighted the need to adopt healthier lifestyles to effectively combat the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and called for greater public awareness regarding disease prevention and early intervention. On the occasion, the Minister formally launched the M-Health Application for Tracking Children with Pneumonia, a digital platform developed by Bal Raksha Bharat under the SAANS Initiative to strengthen monitoring and ensure timely management of childhood pneumonia. The health camp witnessed enthusiastic participation from children, women and elderly residents. Medical specialists deputed by SKIMS Soura and the Chief Medical Officer, Kulgam, provided expert consultations and treatment in Endocrinology, Pediatrics & Neonatology, General Medicine, General Surgery, and Obstetrics & Gynaecology. Bal Raksha Bharat also played a vital role in community mobilization, beneficiary facilitation, coordination with health authorities and creating awareness on child health, pneumonia prevention, routine immunization, nutrition, breastfeeding, hand hygiene and timely healthcare-seeking behaviour. Later, the Minister laid the foundation stone for construction of a new building at Primary School Drangbal, to be executed by PWD (R&B) at an allotted cost of Rs.27.44 lakh. The Minister also laid the foundation stone for construction of additional classrooms at Middle School Jaibal, at the allotted cost of Rs.19.80 lakh to strengthen the educational infrastructure and provide a better learning environment for students. During her visit, the Minister met several public delegations who apprised her of various developmental and public welfare issues concerning their respective areas. The Minister gave a patient hearing to the delegations and assured them that their genuine concerns would be addressed on priority through the concerned departments.

Javid Dar reviews NH-44 restoration, prioritises fruit transport

Ramban, Aug 6: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Thursday reviewed the situation arising from recent heavy rainfall and landslides in Ramban and adjoining areas, with emphasis on damage to life and property, disruption of traffic and restoration of the National Highway. The Minister, accompanied by Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, also conducted a spot inspection of the SamroliUdhampur stretch of NH-44 to take firsthand assessment of the restoration works and traffic arrangements following landslides and shooting stones triggered by incessant rainfall. During the inspection, Javid Dar took stock of the ongoing clearance and restoration operations. He directed the concerned agencies to undertake the works on war footing to ensure early restoration of the affected stretches. He stressed that adequate men, machinery and other resources be deployed at vulnerable locations to minimize disruption to vehicular movement and ensure the safety of commuters. During the review meeting at DC office Ramban, the Minister directed all the concerned agencies to maintain close coordination for effective management of the situation. He emphasized coordinated efforts by the district administration, Police, Traffic Police, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Public Works Department, security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure prompt response to the emerging challenges. The Minister accorded top priority to the movement of fruit-laden trucks, keeping in view the perishable nature of horticulture produce and the ongoing peak fruit marketing season. He directed that such vehicles should not face unnecessary stoppages or procedural delays and called for every possible measure to facilitate their smooth and hassle-free movement towards markets outside J&K. Javid Dar directed the Traffic Police and enforcement agencies to regulate traffic in a manner that facilitates the movement of fruit consignments, particularly along vulnerable and congestion-prone stretches. He called for advance traffic planning and coordinated movement of vehicles, with priority passage to fruit-laden trucks wherever road and safety conditions permit. He further directed the authorities to put in place a 247 monitoring mechanism along vulnerable stretches of NH-44 to ensure immediate response to fresh landslides, shooting stones, road blockages and other emergencies. He stressed the need for timely dissemination of traffic advisories and real-time information to transporters and fruit growers to enable them to plan movement of their produce efficiently. The Minister emphasized that restoration of NH-44 and facilitation of horticulture transportation must go hand in hand, particularly during the peak harvesting and marketing season. He said timely movement of fruit consignments is crucial for safeguarding the interests and income of growers and preventing avoidable post-harvest losses. During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, briefed the Minister on the restoration measures undertaken by the district administration. He informed about the assessment of damage to crops and other assets for extending relief and compensation as per applicable norms. The Senior Superintendent of Police, Ramban, briefed the Minister about the traffic management arrangements and the 247 monitoring mechanism being maintained along the National Highway to ensure timely response to disruptions and facilitate smooth vehicular movement.

Omar Rolls Out Rs 60-Crore Urban Push for Jammu, Says Development Must Rise Above Politics

SRINAGAR : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday unveiled a Rs 60-crore package of urban development projects for Jammu, pitching the initiatives as part of his governments effort to modernise public infrastructure while asserting that development should never become a casualty of political circumstances. The projects, spread across Jammu city, Akhnoor and Katra, include infrastructure []

Assembly panel seeks satellite monitoring of natural resources

Srinagar, Aug 6: Chairman Committee on Environment J&K Legislative Assembly, M Y Tarigami, on Thursday chaired a detailed review meeting of the Geology and Mining Department and called for zero tolerance against illegal mining across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by the Committee members including MLAs Professor Gharu Ram, Dr. Baldev Raj Sharma, Daleep Singh, Showkat Hussain Ganie, Javaid Ahmad Mirchal, Dr. Sajjad Shafi, Salman Sagar, Javaid Riyaz (Bedar) and Dr. Rameshwar Singh. Tarigami said that natural resources belong to the people and their indiscriminate exploitation would not be allowed. He stressed that the department must move from paper monitoring to ground and satellite monitoring to ensure scientific and transparent extraction of minerals. Technology, especially satellite surveillance, GPS tracking and digital monitoring has to become our first line of defense against illegal mining, asserted the Chairman. Reviewing the agenda, the Committee took stock of the Action Taken Report on recommendations tabled in Budget Session 2026 and the status of Comprehensive Minor Mining Policy-2026. On behalf of all Committee members, the MLAs jointly urged the officers to ensure strict enforcement of mining laws, curb illegal extraction, expedite technology-based monitoring including GPS tracking, e-permits, e-challans and the Unified Mining Portal. They stressed that inter-departmental coordination with Revenue, Police, Forest and district administrations must be strengthened to safeguard the environment and maximize revenue for the UT. Additional Chief Secretary Geology and Mining, Ashwani Kumar, Chairman J&K PCC, Director Geology & Mining, District Mining officers and officers of Legislative Assembly were present in the meeting.

Journalist injured in stray dog attack in Press Colony

Srinagar, Aug 6: A journalist was injured in a stray dog attack at Press Colony in Srinagar on Thursday, bringing the city's growing stray dog menace back into focus and prompting renewed calls for urgent intervention by the authorities. The injured journalist, Azaan Manzoor, who works with a local newspaper, sustained severe bite injuries to his leg after being attacked by a stray dog. He was immediately shifted to a healthcare facility for treatment. The incident sparked concern among members of the media fraternity, who said packs of stray dogs have become a common sight in and around Press Colony, posing a constant threat to journalists, photographers, office staff and the general public. Speaking after the incident, Manzoor said the attack highlighted the seriousness of the problem. Today it was me. Tomorrow it could be anyone. Being bitten by a stray dog near Press Colony is a reminder that this menace has become a serious public safety issue. No citizenwhether a journalist or anyone elseshould have to fear walking on the streets. It's time for urgent and effective action, not just promises, he said. Journalists working in the area urged the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and other concerned departments to take immediate steps to address the issue. They called for a comprehensive and humane stray dog management programme, including large-scale sterilisation, vaccination and the relocation of aggressive animals. The latest incident has once again drawn attention to the persistent stray dog problem in Srinagar, where attacks on pedestrians continue to be reported from various parts of the city. Residents and journalists said the issue has assumed serious public safety dimensions and called for a long-term strategy to make public spaces safer.

Low prices sour Ganderbal's watermelon harvest

Ganderbal, Aug 6: The annual watermelon harvest has begun across Batwina, Ahan and adjoining villages in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, bringing the region's famous striped watermelons to markets. However, despite the fields yielding the popular seasonal fruit, growers say falling prices, erratic weather and inadequate marketing facilities have made cultivation increasingly difficult, leaving many farmers struggling to recover their investments. Known as Kashmir's Watermelon Belt, the Batwina-Ahan region has earned recognition for producing high-quality striped or zebra watermelons. While the harvest has traditionally provided a major source of seasonal income for local families, farmers say the last few years have witnessed declining returns due to market fluctuations and climate-related challenges. Among those working in the fields is Raheel Razaq, a graduate pursuing his B.Ed., who says farming has become a necessity in the face of rising unemployment. Having applied for several recruitment posts through the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB), he said the limited number of government vacancies and intense competition have forced many educated youth to turn towards agriculture. We continue to apply for government jobs, but only a handful of vacancies are advertised while lakhs of candidates compete for them. To support my education and family, I had no option but to work in agriculture, he said. Raheel appealed to the government to create more employment opportunities and strengthen educational support through scholarships and financial assistance. He said unemployment among educated youth remains a serious concern, compelling many to depend on farming for their livelihood. Speaking about watermelon cultivation, he said farming was profitable during the initial years, but returns have fallen sharply over the past two to three seasons. In Srinagar, watermelons are sold at much higher prices, but traders purchase them from our farms for only 15 to 20 per kilogram. Farmers are left with very little profit despite months of hard work, he said. He also urged the government to establish storage facilities that would allow farmers to hold their produce until market prices improve instead of being forced to sell immediately after harvest. Officials from the Agriculture Department said Batwina, Ahan, Khanpora and adjoining areas together account for nearly a thousand hectares under watermelon cultivation, making the region one of Kashmir's prominent centres for the crop. Chief Agriculture officer Ganderbal Asifa Nabi said watermelon cultivation offers farmers an opportunity to diversify income, particularly through intercropping. The crop can be grown between rows in orchards and high-density plantations, allowing farmers to utilise available land efficiently and increase overall earnings, he said. The officer said the department has been encouraging farmers to adopt improved cultivation practices and had earlier installed subsidised irrigation wells after prolonged dry conditions affected production. However, she said this season presented a different challenge. Unlike last year's drought, this year witnessed frequent and erratic rainfall. Continuous spells of rain affected fruit development and reduced the expected yield. Climate variability has become one of the biggest challenges for watermelon growers, the official said. She added that another major issue is weak market returns during the harvesting season. Since watermelon is a highly seasonal crop, large-scale arrivals from other states during the same period create a glut in the market, resulting in lower prices for local farmers. The produce from Kashmir is known for its quality and taste. We are encouraging value addition, branding and better market linkages so farmers can secure improved returns in the coming years, he said. The Agriculture Department also assured growers of technical assistance, stating that although watermelon is relatively less prone to diseases compared to many traditional crops, farmers facing pest or disease issues can approach departmental officers for timely guidance and advisory services.

J&K lags in higher education enrolment: Centre

Srinagar, Aug 6: Jammu & Kashmir's Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education stood at 21.5 per cent during 2023 to 24, significantly lower than the national average of 30 per cent, the Union Ministry of Education informed the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. The information was shared in a written reply by Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar, based on the findings of the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2023 to 24. The data showed that J&K performed better than neighbouring Ladakh, which recorded a GER of 11.9 per cent. However, the Union Territory remained behind several states, including Himachal Pradesh at 46.4 per cent, Punjab at 30.8 per cent, Haryana at 35.1 per cent and Delhi at 53 per cent. Bihar reported 17.7 per cent, while Puducherry topped the country with 72.3 per cent. Replying to the question in the Upper House, the Minister said the National Education Policy, 2020 envisages raising the country's GER in higher education to 50 per cent by 2035 through expansion of institutions and reforms in the education system. He said the Centre has taken several measures to improve access to higher education, particularly in educationally underserved regions. Since 2014 to 15, eight Central Universities, seven IITs, eight IIMs, 16 IIITs, two IISERs, one NIT and 12 AIIMS have been established across the country. The government is also implementing scholarship and fellowship schemes for students belonging to SC, ST, OBC, minority and other disadvantaged sections. Besides, initiatives such as SWAYAM, online and distance learning, flexible admissions, multiple entry and exit provisions, and the option to pursue two academic programmes simultaneously are aimed at improving enrolment. The Minister informed the House that the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan, launched in 2023 with an outlay of Rs 12,926.10 crore for 2023 to 24 to 2025 to 26 and extended till March 31, 2028, gives priority to districts with low enrolment and poor gender parity. The scheme supports development of hostels, laboratories, smart classrooms and digital libraries. He further said the approved expansion of IIT Jammu, along with four other newer IITs, under the 2025 to 26 Union Budget involves an investment of Rs 11,828.79 crore and will create capacity for an additional 6,500 students. The 2026 to 27 Union Budget has also proposed five university townships near major industrial and logistics corridors and one girls' hostel in every district to encourage higher education, particularly in STEM courses.

Over 35,900 PMAY-U homes handed over in J&K

Srinagar, Aug 6: More than 35,961 houses have been completed and handed over to beneficiaries in Jammu and Kashmir under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U), while 43,907 houses have been grounded, the Union Government informed the Lok Sabha on Thursday. According to data tabled by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in the Lok Sabha, a total of 42,584 houses have been sanctioned under PMAY-U in Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, 3,398 houses have been approved under PMAY-U 2.0. Together, the two phases account for 43,907 grounded houses, of which 35,961 have been completed and delivered to eligible beneficiaries across the Union Territory. The Centre has approved 734 crore as Central assistance for Jammu and Kashmir under the scheme, of which 544 crore has already been released, the ministry said. The information was provided by Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal in a written reply to a question raised by K. Gopinath in the Lok Sabha. In his reply, the minister said that land and colonisation are State subjects, and housing schemes for citizensincluding those belonging to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Low Income Groups (LIG), migrant workers and semi-urban householdsfall within the domain of the respective State and Union Territory governments. He noted that data on homelessness, housing availability and housing quality is collected through the decennial Census. According to the 2011 Census, out of India's urban population of 37.7 crore, around 9.38 lakh people were homeless, while 17.4 per cent of the urban population lived in slums. Manohar Lal said that the Ministry has been implementing PMAY-U since June 25, 2015, with the objective of providing all-weather pucca houses equipped with basic civic amenities to eligible urban beneficiaries across the country. Drawing on the experience of the original scheme, the Centre launched PMAY-U 2.0 Housing for All Mission on September 1, 2024, with the aim of supporting one crore additional eligible urban beneficiaries over the next five years. The revamped scheme is being implemented through four verticals: Beneficiary-Led Construction (BLC), Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP), Affordable Rental Housing (ARH), and the Interest Subsidy Scheme (ISS). The minister further informed the House that 111.48 lakh houses have been sanctioned under PMAY-U, while 16.20 lakh houses have been sanctioned under PMAY-U 2.0 across the country. He said the scheme follows a demand-driven approach, with no fixed state-wise targets. The minister added that PMAY-U and PMAY-U 2.0 together are expected to sanction more than two crore houses, exceeding the housing demand assessed during the survey. To improve beneficiary identification, he said, eligible citizens can also apply through the Unified Web Portal of PMAY-U 2.0. Applications are verified by the respective States, Union Territories and Urban Local Bodies in accordance with the scheme's eligibility criteria before beneficiaries are selected.

FIR Registered Against Mehbooba Mufti, Iltija Over Alleged Assault on Police Officer During Article 370 Protest

SRINAGAR : Police have registered an FIR against Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, her daughter Iltija Mufti and four other party leaders in connection with an alleged assault on a police officer during the PDPs protest over the restoration of Article 370 earlier this week. Officials []

DIPR Launches Emerging Filmmakers Competition Ahead of Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: The Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) on Thursday announced the IFFJK Emerging Filmmakers Competition-2026, inviting aspiring filmmakers from Jammu and Kashmir to submit original short films as part of the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK). Registrations for the competition opened on August 6. The initiative aims to identify []

Gold Prices Rise Sharply Across India

SRINAGAR: Gold prices rose sharply for the third consecutive session on Thursday, gaining Rs 3,800 per 10 grams to reach a seven-week high of Rs 1,53,800 in the national capital, supported by a weaker rupee and stronger international prices. Gold of 99.9 per cent purity, inclusive of all taxes, had closed at Rs 1,50,000 per []

Javid Dar Reviews Highway Restoration, Orders Priority Passage for Fruit-Laden Trucks

SRINAGAR : Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Thursday directed authorities to expedite restoration of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway (NH-44) and ensure unhindered movement of fruit-laden trucks following heavy rainfall and landslides that disrupted traffic in Ramban and adjoining areas. Accompanied by Advisor []

Senior-Most Medical Superintendent Gets Additional Charge of HoD at GMC Jammu

SRINAGAR: The Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, has entrusted Dr Dara Singh, the senior-most Medical Superintendent Grade-I and Professor, with the additional charge of Head of the Department (HoD) of Hospital Administration. An order issued by GMC Jammu Principal and Dean Dr Ashutosh Gupta said the arrangement has been approved by the Administrative Department. Dr []

DC Srinagar Reviews Disaster Projects to Strengthen District Preparedness

Srinagar , Aug 06: In order to review and strengthen the Disaster Mitigation measures across the District, a meeting of senior Officers was today held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, who is also the Chairman of District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) at Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex. The meeting was attended by SSP Traffic Police, Aijaz Ahmad, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, CEO DDMA, Aadil Fareed, Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Superintending Engineer R&B, Tatheer Manzoor, Superintending Engineer, R&B, Shabir Ahmad, Superintending Engineer PHE Hydraulic, Er. Ambreen Anjum, SDM West, Irfan Bahadur, SDM West, Zuber Ahmad, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Umar Gulzar, Executive Engineer I&FC, Shuja Ahmad, all Tehsildars, Experts and other concerned. At the outset, the Chairman DDMA emphasized the need for close coordination among all line departments and called for strengthening disaster mitigation measures to effectively tackle any eventuality arising from landslides, cloudbursts and flood-like situations, ensuring a prompt and coordinated response across the district. The DC directed the Officers to conduct field visits to vulnerable locations, undertake detailed assessments and identify gaps requiring immediate intervention. He instructed the concerned Departments to take all necessary measures to strengthen the embankments along the River Jhelum and other flood-prone areas in the City to minimize risks and safeguard public life and property. DC further stressed the need to reinforce disaster mitigation measures along Dachigam Nallah, Gandbal area, Doodganga Nallah and other vulnerable spots in the District. He directed the concerned Departments to carry out need based assessment of these areas and undertake necessary mitigation projects to reduce the vulnerability of these areas and ensure a swift, coordinated and effective response mechanism spanning across various departments. The meeting also reviewed the preparedness of various Departments, availability of emergency resources and inter-departmental coordination mechanisms to ensure timely response during any natural disaster or emergency.

Jammu NDPS Court Warns Prosecution Officials of Contempt Over Prosecutor

SRINAGAR: The Special Judge, NDPS Cases, Jammu, has warned the Director General (Prosecution) and Director (Prosecution) of contempt proceedings after the court was left virtually non-functional due to the absence of a prosecutor, with around 80 matters listed for hearing and 12 prosecution witnesses present. The court passed the directions on Thursday in a case []

Jammu Kashmir: Govt Appoints Assistant Professors at SKIMS Soura

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has appointed two candidates as Assistant Professors in the Departments of Anaesthesiology and General Surgery at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, Srinagar. The appointments were approved on a temporary basis under Government Order No. 606-JK (HME) of 2026 issued by the Health and Medical Education Department on []

Jammu Kashmir: Govt Promotes Assistant Directors as Deputy Directors in Fire Services

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved the promotion of four Assistant Directors as Deputy Directors in the Fire and Emergency Services Department, JK, on a prospective basis. The promotions were sanctioned under Government Order No. 404-Home of 2026, issued by the Home Department on August 6, following recommendations of the Jammu and Kashmir []

Forces Ready to Counter Any Threat : Iran Acting Defence Minister

Tehran , Aug 6 : Iran's Acting Defence Minister, Brigadier General Majid Ebn-e-Reza, has asserted that the country's Armed Forces remain fully prepared to counter any security threat, stressing that Iran's military strength is underpinned by its indigenous defence industry. In a message shared on social media and carried by Iran's official Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Ebn-e-Reza said that while the power of Iran's adversaries is steadily declining, the nation's armed forces are equipped to respond decisively to any challenge through domestically developed military capabilities. He also claimed that countries seeking security and military superiority through foreign arms purchases would eventually recognise that Iran's homegrown defence technology surpasses other systems in the region. The remarks come against the backdrop of renewed tensions between Tehran and Washington following fresh warnings from US President Donald Trump. Speaking earlier this week, Trump said Iran would be hit very hard if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened very soon. The Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is a vital global energy corridor through which significant volumes of crude oil and liquefied natural gas are transported. In an interview with Fox News, Trump claimed the United States was engaged in very good discussions with Iran and suggested the issue of reopening the Strait of Hormuz could be resolved rapidly. He also described the situation as Iran's last chance before decapitation and said the Strait could reopen literally by tomorrow. However, Tehran has firmly denied that any negotiations are currently taking place with Washington. Addressing a press briefing in Tehran, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei dismissed Trump's claims, stating that Iran is not engaged in talks with the United States. He added that, apart from Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is currently on a pilgrimage to Iraq, all members of Iran's negotiating team remain in the country.

Shepherd Killed in Lightning Strike in North Kashmir

Srinagar , August 6 : A shepherd was killed after being struck by lightning during heavy rainfall in the Dutibegh area of Keran sector in North Kashmirs Kupwara district on Thursday, officials said. The deceased was identified as Shahmeer Ahmad Khatana, son of Abdul Rasheed Khatana and a resident of Warsun in Kralpora area, they said. The incident occurred amid heavy rain in the area, officials said, as per news agency GNS. Police have taken cognisance of the incident, and further investigation is underway, they added.

Jammu Kashmir Govt Directs Employees To Complete Mandatory iGOT Karmayogi Training

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has directed all employees registered on the General Administration Departments (GAD) MDO Portal to immediately enrol in and complete the online training courses assigned to them through the iGOT Karmayogi platform as part of its Capacity Building Programme (CBP). According to a circular issued by the General Administration Department, []

Delhi Court reserves order on cognisance of CBI chargesheet in NEET-UG paper leak case

New Delhi [India], August 6 : The Rouse Avenue court on Thursday reserved its order on the cognisance of a massive 20,000-page charge sheet filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) against 13 accused persons in the NEET-UG paper leak case. Special CBI Judge Ajay Gupta noted that the scrutiny of the charge sheet and accompanying documents has been completed. The court is scheduled to pronounce its order on cognisance, with subsequent proceedings and arguments on charges slated to begin soon. The matter is listed for the pronouncement of the order regarding the cognisance of the charge sheet. All 13 accused individuals currently remain in judicial custody, with their custody officially extended up to August 10. Digital e-copies of the charge sheet have been successfully supplied to all accused parties. The matter is listed for order on cognisance on August 7. The court has also reserved its order on applications seeking permission to conduct polygraph tests, brain mapping, and lie detector tests on accused individuals Mangilal Biwal, Dinesh Biwal, and Vikas Biwal. While the defence argued these tests ensure a transparent investigation under Article 21, the CBI opposed the application, calling it non-maintainable and pushing for heavy costs. Accused Dinesh Biwal and Vikas Biwal were granted time until August 18 to thoroughly review the voluminous charge sheet and prepare arguments for their bail applications. While opposing the application, the CBI senior Public Prosecutor V K Pathak argued that this application is not maintainable and a high cost should be imposed upon the accused as the government has set up the special fast track court. Advocate AP Singh, the counsel for the accused, submitted that the tests will help in a fair and transparent investigation. He also submitted that a fair investigation and fair trial are a right of the accused under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. The accused Dinesh Biwal and Vikas Biwal sought and were granted time till August 18 to go through the charge sheet and to argue the bail applications. On August 4, the Special Fast Track Court at Rouse Avenue for Paper leak cases directed the CBI to complete the scrutiny of the chargesheet and supply the copies to the accused persons by August 6. The CBI has filed the charge sheet against 13 Accused persons for the offences of criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust, destruction of evidence and others under BNS, for the offence of criminal misconduct under the Prevention of Corruption Act and for offences under the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. CBI cited 360 witnesses, 422 documents and 43 material objects in this charge sheet. All 13 chargesheeted persons are in judicial custody as on date. The agency said that the Department of Higher Education, Government of India, had lodged a written complaint on May 12, 2026, regarding irregularities and allegations of paper leak in NEET-UG 2026 Examination which was held on May 3, 2026. The CBI said it registered the FIR on May 12, 2026, and immediately formed multiple teams with 72 officers/ personnel along with 08 Cyber Forensic Experts. Searches were conducted at 92 locations in Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi and other States. These searches led to seizure of incriminating material like digital and communication devices, documents, etc. Forensic imaging and analysis of the incriminating material has been undertaken. The first arrest in this case was made on May 13, 2026. A total of 13 accused have been arrested in the case, which included 03 NTA subject experts of Chemistry, Biology and Physics. Several middlemen who have sourced and distributed these leaked questions have also been identified and arrested. Two individuals associated with coaching institutes have also been arrested for obtaining these leaked question papers from the above experts. The money trail analysis was done, and several bank accounts, bank lockers and a demat account of the accused have been frozen, the CBI said. (ANI)

Jammu Kashmir Gets 45,982 Houses Under PMAY-Urban, Centre Says Over 2 Crore Homes to Be Sanctioned Nationwide

SRINAGAR: The Union Government on Thursday said 45,982 houses have been sanctioned for Jammu and Kashmir under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U) and PMAY-U 2.0, with 35,961 houses already completed or delivered, while asserting that the combined housing programme is expected to exceed the countrys assessed urban housing shortage. Replying to a starred question []

Centre Extends Jal Jeevan Mission to 2028; Jammu Kashmir Allocated Rs 905.74 Crore Under JJM 2.0

SRINAGAR: The Union Government has extended the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) until December 2028 under the revamped JJM 2.0, with Jammu and Kashmir receiving a central allocation of Rs 905.74 crore for 2026-27, the Lok Sabha was informed on Thursday. Replying to a starred question, the Ministry of Jal Shakti said the second phase of []

Srinagar, Jammu Complete 282 of 288 Smart City Projects: Lok Sabha Told

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmirs two Smart CitiesSrinagar and Jammuhave completed more than 98 per cent of the projects sanctioned under the Smart Cities Mission (SCM), with the Union Government informing the Lok Sabha that 282 of the 288 approved projects in the Union Territory had been completed by March 31, 2026. According to the Ministry []

Kupwara, Baramulla Get Centres Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament Funds

SRINAGAR: The Union Government has said that youth from Jammu and Kashmir, including those from non-collegiate rural institutions, are eligible to participate in the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament (VBYP) programme, with Kupwara and Baramulla receiving financial assistance to organise local sessions in aspirational districts. In a written reply to an unstarred question in the Rajya []

Police Register Two FIRs Over Firecracker Use During Weddings in South Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Police in south Kashmirs Shopian district have registered two FIRs over the alleged use of firecrackers during marriage ceremonies in violation of prohibitory orders issued by the District Magistrate. FIR Nos. 148/2026 and 151/2026 have been registered at Police Station Shopian, and investigations into the incidents have been initiated, police said on Thursday. The []

Jammu Kashmir Reports No Child Labour Cases Under 1986 Act Since 2020: Centre

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has reported zero cases registered under the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, for five consecutive years from 2020 to 2024, the Union Government informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. In a written reply to an unstarred question, Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje said []

CM Omar Visits Flood-hit Chenab Valley, Promises Enhanced Relief; Five Marlas for Families Left Landless

SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday visited flood-affected areas of Rajouri district and reviewed the damage caused by the recent flash floods, announcing enhanced relief and rehabilitation measures for families who lost their homes and agricultural land and directing authorities to accelerate restoration of damaged roads, power and drinking-water infrastructure. During an extensive tour []

Jammu Kashmir Air Quality Among Best in North India, Parliament Informed

SRINAGAR: Srinagar recorded only four days of poor air quality in 2025, making it one of the cleanest monitored cities in northern India, the Union Government informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. In a written reply to an unstarred question, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said Srinagar registered 230 good daysclassified under []

1,179 Hectares of Forest Land Diverted in Jammu Kashmir for Non-Forest Use in Five Years: Centre

SRINAGAR: The Union Government on Thursday informed Parliament that 1,178.58 hectares of forest land in Jammu and Kashmir were approved for diversion for non-forest purposes between April 1, 2021 and March 31, 2026, under the provisions of the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980. In a written reply to an unstarred question in the Rajya []

CM Omar assures enhanced relief, rehabilitation during Rajouri post-flood review

RAJOURI, AUGUST 06: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reviewed relief, restoration and rehabilitation measures following the recent flash floods in Rajouri and directed the district administration and concerned departments to expedite restoration works, strengthen rehabilitation efforts and undertake long-term mitigation measures to safeguard vulnerable areas. Chairing a high-level review meeting, the Chief Minister observed that natural disasters, particularly cloudbursts and flash floods, have become increasingly frequent in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years. He noted that while the Meteorological Department provides rainfall forecasts and timely advisories are issued, accurately predicting the precise location of cloudbursts remains a challenge, limiting preparedness in specific areas. The Chief Minister appreciated the District Administration Rajouri for issuing timely advisories and pre-positioning men and machinery in vulnerable locations, which helped minimise the loss of lives. He also lauded the prompt rescue, relief and evacuation operations undertaken in the immediate aftermath of the disaster. Emphasising the need for enhanced support to affected families, the Chief Minister said that the existing relief assistance is inadequate to meet the costs of reconstruction and rehabilitation. He assured that the J&K Government would enhance the quantum of relief and provide comprehensive rehabilitation assistance, particularly to families whose houses have been damaged and those rendered landless. Directing the Deputy Commissioner Rajouri to identify suitable Government land, the Chief Minister said that families who have lost both their homes and agricultural land should be provided five marlas of land for rehabilitation. He further instructed the administration to ensure the immediate provision of special free ration to such families. Reviewing restoration efforts, the Chief Minister noted that the 33 KV power transmission line between Rajouri and Poonch had suffered extensive damage, disrupting electricity supply. While appreciating the temporary restoration carried out by the Power Development Department, he directed the concerned authorities to complete permanent restoration works at the earliest. Highlighting the critical role of the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department in restoring drinking water supply, the Chief Minister directed the department to submit proposals for the installation of hand pumps wherever feasible to ensure a reliable source of drinking water in affected areas. On road infrastructure, the Chief Minister emphasised that roads in hilly and mountainous regions require specialised, resilient engineering designs capable of withstanding natural disasters. Observing that designs suitable for the plains cannot be replicated in mountainous terrain, he directed the Public Works Department to submit recommendations for developing more disaster-resilient road infrastructure. The Chief Minister also directed that a proposal for the construction of a Mini Secretariat in Rajouri be prepared and submitted. He asked the administration to explore the possibility of monetising Government office spaces that would become available after departments are relocated to the proposed complex. Referring to construction along riverbanks, the Chief Minister observed that rivers naturally reclaim their courses during extreme weather events and stressed that construction in such vulnerable areas would not be permitted in future. He also assured that issues relating to the alternate bus stand, Jal Shakti restoration and other important public infrastructure requirements would be examined sympathetically. Commending the coordinated efforts of the District Administration and all line departments, the Chief Minister urged them to sustain the same level of commitment and ensure that all necessary preventive and mitigation measures are implemented to minimise the impact of such disasters in future. The meeting was attended by MLA Rajouri Iftkhar Ahmed, MLA Thanamandi Muzaffar Iqbal Khan, MLA Budhal Javed Iqbal Choudhary, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma, SSP Rajouri Gaurav Sikarwar, ADDC Rajouri Malikzada Sheraz-ul-Haq, ADC Rajouri Ravi Kumar Sihag and other senior officers.

Man killed, three injured after electric shock in Ramban

Ramban: A man was killed while three others sustained injuries after they suffered an electric shock in the Ramsoo area of Ramban district on Thursday. An official said that the incident occurred in Ramsoo, where four persons received an electric shock due to a suspected short circuit. He said all the injured were immediately shifted []

MMU Expresses Outrage Over Pork Products on Blinkit

Srinagar Aug 06 : The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) Jammu & Kashmir on Thursday expressed strong outrage and shock after it came to light that pork products were being listed for sale on the online delivery platform Blinkit in the Kashmir valley. In a statement the organisation said the development, which came to the fore through screenshots shared by concerned citizens, has triggered sharp reactions from religious quarters. The MMU, in a statement, underscored that the sale and consumption of pork is strictly prohibited in Islam and that the Muslim community holds immense sensitivity on this matter. Questioning the authorities, the MMU sought a thorough investigation into how such items were allowed to enter the local market for sale. The apex religious body also called for strict action and warnings against those found responsible for the lapse. In a clear directive, the Majlis asked Blinkit to immediately take the products off its shelves and ensure, with utmost seriousness, that pork products are neither stocked, advertised, nor sold in Kashmir. Asserting that businesses operating in the region must respect the religious and cultural ethos of the area, the MMU maintained that all commercial entities must act responsibly and adhere to local sensitivities. (KNS)

Short: India Business Conferences for US Entrepreneurs: Tickets, Flights, and Total Costs

Rain, Thundershowers Expected at Many Places in J&K: MeT

Srinagar, Aug 06: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast light to moderate rainfall and thundershowers across Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days, with a warning of heavy rainfall and the possibility of flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas between August 9 and 11. According to the MeT Centre, one or two spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely at many places across the Union Territory from August 6 to 8, with brief intense showers expected at a few locations. From August 9 to 11, most places are expected to receive a few spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers. Heavy rainfall and brief intense showers are likely in a few districts during this period. The weather is expected to improve slightly from August 12 to 15, although light rain and thundershowers are likely at many places, with brief intense showers at isolated locations. The MeT Centre has advised people to remain alert, warning that torrential rain and intense showers between August 9 and 11 could trigger flash floods, landslides, and other rain-related incidents in vulnerable areas. Residents, particularly those living in hilly and landslide-prone regions, have been urged to follow official weather advisories and exercise caution during periods of heavy rainfall.

J&K BJP distances itself from objectionable slogans at Anantnag rally

Srinagar: The BJPs Jammu and Kashmir unit on Thursday distanced itself from objectionable slogans raised by some individuals during a rally at Anantnag Housing Colony, saying the remarks neither reflected the partys ideology nor its official stand. The party also reaffirmed its commitment to womens dignity and Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of women empowerment. []

28th batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims passes through Ramban under tight security

Ramban, August 6: The 28th batch of pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra passed through Chanderkote in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Thursday amid elaborate security arrangements, as authorities continued efforts to ensure the smooth and safe movement of the pilgrimage. Convoys of vehicles carrying devotees made their way through the transit point under the watch of security personnel deployed along the route. Traffic was regulated at key junctions, while officials closely monitored the convoy's movement to prevent congestion and ensure that pilgrims could proceed without disruption. Chanderkote, located in Ramban district along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, serves as one of the major transit points for pilgrims travelling to the holy Amarnath Cave Shrine. Given the challenging terrain and the heavy flow of devotees during the pilgrimage season, authorities have put in place a robust security and traffic management plan. Security personnel remained stationed at strategic locations, conducting regular checks and maintaining surveillance throughout the convoy's passage. Traffic police and civil administration officials coordinated to facilitate the orderly movement of vehicles while minimising inconvenience to local commuters. The annual Amarnath Yatra attracts thousands of devotees from across the country, who undertake the pilgrimage to offer prayers at the naturally formed ice Shivling inside the Amarnath Cave, situated at an altitude of nearly 3,900 metres in the Himalayas. Pilgrims can reach the shrine through the traditional Pahalgam route in Anantnag district or the shorter but steeper Baltal route in Ganderbal district. Every year, the yatra is accompanied by extensive logistical and security arrangements due to the region's difficult mountainous terrain, unpredictable weather conditions and the large number of pilgrims travelling each day. Medical teams, disaster response personnel and emergency services remain on standby throughout the pilgrimage period to respond to any eventuality. As of July 26, more than 4 lakh devotees have received darshan at the shrine. Authorities have repeatedly advised pilgrims to follow the prescribed travel schedules, cooperate with security personnel and adhere to weather advisories issued from time to time. Coordinated efforts of the civil administration, police and security forces have helped ensure the smooth passage of successive batches of pilgrims, with the focus remaining on their safety and well-being throughout the journey. (ANI)

Enemies tried to topple Iran but new leader kept country united: President Pezeshkian

Tehran , August 6 : Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday (local time) said 'hostile powers' had sought to destabilise and topple the Islamic Republic, but the country's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei had ensured that Iran remained united and resilient in the face of external pressure. In a televised address to the nation, Pezeshkian credited the unity of the Iranian people for thwarting what he described as attempts to weaken the country through war, sanctions and political pressure. Enemies tried to topple the Islamic Republic, but the country's new Leader kept Iran united and strong...Enemies sought to replicate Syria's fate for Iran through wars and sanctions, Pezeshkian said, adding that the resilience and determination of the Iranian people had foiled those plans. The President asserted that national unity remained the country's greatest strength against external threats. Unity among Iranians remains the primary factor in standing firm against enemies, he said, alleging that Iran's adversaries opposed any sign of independence or progress achieved by the Iranian people. Pezeshkian also paid tribute to the late Leader of the Islamic Revolution, saying the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution always supported the government, while expressing confidence that the country's new leadership would continue safeguarding Iran's sovereignty and stability. His remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and diplomatic activity involving Iran and the United States. Earlier on Wednesday, Reuters reported, citing a senior Iranian source and two regional officials, that a proposed agreement involving Iran and Oman could grant Tehran control over vessels entering the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz. However, the report noted that key details of the arrangement were still under discussion despite US President Donald Trump's assertion that an agreement to reopen the strategic waterway was close. Separately, Trump said a lot of progress had been made in contacts with Iran and claimed Tehran had reached out seeking talks, adding that developments would become clearer within 48 hours. The remarks come against the backdrop of months of heightened tensions in West Asia following the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. The conflict intensified after a series of strikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities and retaliatory attacks across the region. The crisis was further compounded by the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, an event that led to the appointment of a new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. (ANI)

Amarnath Yatra Resumes from Jammu After One-day Suspension

SRINAGAR: The annual Amarnath Yatra resumed from Jammu on Thursday after remaining suspended for a day as a precautionary security measure ahead of the seventh anniversary of the August 5, 2019 constitutional changes. The 28th batch of pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas at around 2:45 am for the Baltal base camp under security []

Jammu Kashmir Cabinet Defers Ease of Doing Business Ordinance, Seeks Detailed Presentation

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet has deferred consideration of the proposed Ease of Doing Business Ordinance after some ministers sought a detailed presentation on its provisions, putting the proposed package of business and regulatory reforms on hold for now. The ordinance, prepared by the Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Department headed by Chief Minister []

CII J&K discuss skilling, placement opportunities for women at Govt. Polytechnic College, Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 5: A delegation of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Jammu & Kashmir UT Council, Skill Development and Women Leadership panels, called on Dr. Shafquat Ara, Principal Government Polytechnic College, Srinagar to explore collaborative avenues for womens skill development and employment in the automobile sector. The delegation was led by Ufair Ajaz, Convener of the CII J&K Skills Panel and comprised of Khurshid Dar, Director CII J&K. Ridha Rashid, Co-Convener of the CII J&K Women Leadership Panel, Ishfaq Ahmed, Co Convener, CII Panel on Trade and Retail During the meeting, Eicher Volvo team gave a presentation on Project Tejaswini, an initiative through which women are being trained in the automobile trade, with a clear pathway to placements at local automobile dealerships. Expanding on the projects vision, Ufair Ajaz explained the entire skilling-to-employment process and gave a firm assurance to absorb the highest possible number of female candidates from the programme. He further assured that the Honda dealership network would also extend internship opportunities to the trained women, giving them valuable hands-on industry exposure. Dr. Shafquat Ara appreciated the CIIs proactive initiative, noting that such industry-academia partnerships are vital to bridging the gender gap in non-traditional trades and creating sustainable livelihoods for women in the Kashmir Valley. Both sides agreed to fast-track the formalization of a collaborative framework to scale up the Tejaswini project and replicate its success across other trades and institutions also in the Union Territory.

AICTE launches applications for Mitacs Globalink Research Internship (GRI) 2027

New Delhi, Aug 5: In a major step towards strengthening global academic collaboration and creating international research opportunities for Indian students, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) today officially launched the AICTEMitacs Globalink Research Internship (GRI) 2027 programme. The launch was inaugurated by Hon'ble Chairman, AICTE, Prof. Yogesh Singh, marking the opening of applications for one of the world's most prestigious undergraduate international research internship programmes. The launch follows the landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between AICTE and Mitacs, Canada, under which up to 300 eligible Indian undergraduate students every year, for a period of three years beginning in 2027, will receive fully funded opportunities to undertake 12-week research internships at leading Canadian universities. The initiative traces its origin to the official visit of The Right Honourable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, to India this year at the invitation of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. During the bilateral discussions, both leaders reaffirmed the importance of education, research collaboration and talent mobility as key pillars of the IndiaCanada partnership. Recognizing that the movement of students, researchers and professionals has strengthened innovation ecosystems and economic growth in both countries, the two Prime Ministers agreed to deepen cooperation in higher education by promoting industry-aligned skills, expanding joint and dual-degree programmes, facilitating offshore campuses of leading Canadian institutions in India, strengthening research partnerships in emerging technologies, and revitalizing the IndiaCanada Joint Working Group on Higher Education. As part of these shared commitments, the leaders welcomed the AICTEMitacs partnership to expand the Globalink Research Internship (GRI) programme, enabling approximately 300 Indian undergraduate students annually to undertake research placements at Canadian universities while strengthening institutional collaborations, academic excellence and future-ready skills. The Globalink Research Internship (GRI) is a highly competitive, fully funded international programme that offers talented undergraduate students an opportunity to work under the supervision of Canadian university faculty members across a wide spectrum of disciplines including engineering, computer science, physical sciences, life sciences, mathematics, business, social sciences, arts and humanities. The internships are conducted in person over 12 consecutive weeks between May and October, providing students with hands-on research experience, exposure to world-class laboratories, international mentorship, multicultural learning environments and professional development opportunities Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Yogesh Singh, Chairman, AICTE, said: India's demographic dividend can become a global innovation dividend only when our students are provided opportunities to learn, research and collaborate beyond geographical boundaries. Applications for the GRI 2027 programme open on 5 August 2026 and will remain open until 16 September 2026. Eligible students will subsequently undergo a rigorous screening, matching and selection process before being placed with faculty members at participating Canadian universities. The internships will take place between May and October 2027, with successful participants receiving comprehensive pre-departure support and orientation before travelling to Canada. To be eligible, applicants must be at least 18 years of age, enrolled full-time in an undergraduate or integrated undergraduatemaster's programme, have completed at least two years of undergraduate study (or be in the second year) at the time of application, demonstrate proficiency in English and/or French as required by the selected research project, and apply to a minimum of three and a maximum of ten research projects across at least three different Canadian provinces. The AICTEMitacs partnership represents a significant milestone in India's international higher education engagement and aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which envisions increased global collaborations, academic mobility, research excellence and multidisciplinary education. By providing Indian students access to internationally renowned research institutions, the initiative will nurture globally competent researchers, strengthen bilateral academic partnerships and contribute to building a future-ready innovation ecosystem for both India and Canada. Students are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility requirements and application guidelines before submitting their applications through the official AICTEMitacs Globalink Research Internship portal.

DC Gbal reviews preparedness for Census 2027 in snow-bound areas

Ganderbal, Aug 5: Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, on Wednesday reviewed the district's preparedness for Census-2027, with special focus on ensuring smooth enumeration in snow-bound areas. Chairing a review meeting, the Deputy Commissioner assessed the roadmap for conducting the Census and stressed the need for meticulous planning to ensure accurate, timely and comprehensive enumeration across the district. He directed all Tehsildars to complete preparatory activities well in advance and ensure that all logistical, administrative and manpower arrangements are put in place. T ehsildars of snow-bound areas were asked to identify vulnerable locations and prepare a detailed strategy for completing Census operations before the onset of winter, ensuring that no household is left uncovered. Emphasising the importance of quality data, Kishore instructed officers to maintain accuracy, transparency and strict adherence to Census guidelines at every stage. He described Census-2027 as a vital national exercise and called for close coordination among all departments to ensure its successful conduct in the district. The meeting was attended by the Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Tehsildars and the District Coordinator, Census.

Shailendra Kumar chairs review meeting of State Taxes Department

Srinagar, Aug 5: Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Finance, Shailendra Kumar on Wednesday chaired a review meeting of the State Taxes Department, Kashmir Division to assess the revenue generation, statutory compliance and operational efficiency across all circles. The meeting was attended by Commissioner State Taxes, J&K, P.K. Bhat; Additional Commissioner State Taxes, Kashmir, Parveez Ahmad Raina; Additional Commissioner TPAR, Kishori Lal; Deputy Commissioners of State Taxes Department and State Taxes Officers representing all Circles of the Kashmir Division. During the meeting, the ACS conducted a detailed circle-wise performance evaluation, scrutinizing key parameters including Input Tax Credit (ITC) verification, return filing compliance (GSTR-3B and GSTR-1), recovery of pending tax arrears, scrutiny of returns and enforcement operations across Kashmir Division. Reiterating the core policy directives outlined in the recently held review meeting in Jammu, Shailendra Kumar emphasized that the State Taxes Department must adopt a dual strategy focused on augmenting revenue collection while ensuring a business-friendly environment. He said that the tax administration must pivot towards a facilitator-first model, instructing the officers to guide the taxpayers and simplify compliance processes. Facilitation, guidance and tax education must be the cornerstone of our operations. While evasion and deliberate non-compliance will be met with firm enforcement actions under the GST framework, taxpayers making genuine efforts to comply must be supported without undue hindrance or harassment, maintained the ACS. Commissioner State Taxes assured that the department is committed to achieve its targets through enhanced capacity building, automated discrepancy tracking and transparent taxpayer outreach programs across both Jammu and Kashmir divisions.

KMCH Sempora holds walkthrough of Dentistry, Physiotherapy departments

Srinagar, Aug 5: Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, Srinagar, on Wednesday organised a walkthrough of its Departments of Dentistry and Physiotherapy, showcasing the upgraded facilities and advanced healthcare services available to patients. The walkthrough reflected the institution's commitment to providing quality, evidence-based, affordable, and patient-centric healthcare. It was attended by Managing Director KMCH Tausif Ahmad, Executive Director Insha Qazi, Principal Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Khan, Medical Superintendent Dr. Syed Mubashir, HoD Dentistry and Consultant in Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Dr. Syed Manzoor-ul-Haq Bukhari, Senior Physiotherapist and Incharge Department of Physiotherapy KMCH, Dr. Showkat Maqbool, heads of various departments, faculty members, doctors of the concerned departments, and staff. On the occasion, Managing Director KMCH Tausif Ahmad said the walkthrough reflects the institution's continuous efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and introduce modern, patient-centric services. He said KMCH is committed to providing accessible, affordable, and evidence-based healthcare while ensuring that patients receive quality treatment under one roof. Executive Director Insha Qazi reiterated that KMCH is focused on building a healthcare ecosystem where quality treatment is accessible to every section of society without imposing a financial burden on patients. She said the upgradation of the Dentistry and Physiotherapy departments demonstrates the institution's vision of combining clinical excellence with compassionate care. The Department of Dentistry showcased its upgraded infrastructure and expanded range of dental services aimed at delivering comprehensive oral healthcare. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Syed Manzoor-ul-Haq Bukhari said the department has been strengthened with modern facilities to improve patient outcomes while maintaining the highest standards of clinical care. He said the department is committed to preserving natural teeth, promoting preventive oral healthcare, and providing advanced restorative, periodontal, endodontic, prosthodontic, and surgical dental services. He added that the department aims to make quality oral healthcare accessible and affordable for every section of society. In a significant step towards multidisciplinary healthcare, the Department of Dentistry has collaborated with the Department of Medicine to offer integrated Sleep Medicine services for the evaluation and management of sleep-related disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea. Reaffirming the hospital's vision of making quality healthcare accessible to all, the management has introduced highly affordable charges for dental services. The OPD consultation fee has been fixed at Rs 50. The Department of Physiotherapy also showcased its facilities and rehabilitation services. Speaking on the occasion, Senior Physiotherapist Dr. Showkat Maqbool said the department provides comprehensive rehabilitation for patients suffering from orthopaedic, neurological, paediatric, and other musculoskeletal conditions along with emerging fields like sports injuries, OBG, geriatrics and palliative care. He said the department focuses on restoring mobility, improving functional independence, relieving pain, and enhancing the overall quality of life through evidence-based rehabilitation programmes.

CS reviews J&K's anti-narcotics strategy at 18th UT-Level NCORD meeting

Srinagar, Aug 5: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Wednesday chaired the 18th Union Territory-level meeting of the Narcotics Coordination (NCORD) Committee and reviewed Jammu and Kashmir's anti-narcotics strategy, laying emphasis on stringent enforcement of the NDPS Act, effective prosecution of offenders, disruption of organised drug networks, regulation of pharmaceutical drugs and expansion of treatment and rehabilitation facilities across the Union Territory. The meeting was attended by Director General of Police, Director General Prosecution, Principal Secretary Home, ADGP CID, Administrative Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir, IGPs, DIGs, representatives of the Army, Central Armed Police Forces and Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), besides other senior civil and police officers. Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police of all districts participated through video conferencing. Reviewing the implementation of decisions taken during the previous NCORD meeting, the Chief Secretary assessed the progress made by stakeholder departments. The meeting also discussed the proposed Vision Document on Narcotics Control (2026-2029) and the roadmap prepared under the Prime Minister's 100-week Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp campaign, which envisages technology-driven enforcement, stronger financial investigations, enhanced prosecution, disruption of organised narcotics syndicates, expansion of rehabilitation services and greater inter-agency coordination. Dulloo directed all Deputy Commissioners to implement the Prime Minister's anti-drug campaign in its true spirit. Stressing speedy disposal of NDPS cases, he asked that video conferencing facilities for recording evidence be made operational in all NDPS and Sessions Courts to expedite trials while reducing inconvenience to witnesses. Reviewing prosecution, he directed the Director General Prosecution to comprehensively examine all NDPS cases recommended for closure without appeals to ensure every legally sustainable case is pursued. He also asked the Law Department to examine the applicability of laws such as the GST Act, MSME Act, Shops and Establishments Act and Tourism Trade Act against drug traffickers, besides closely scrutinising bank accounts and financial transactions to dismantle illicit money trails. The Chief Secretary instructed the Health Department to ensure strict implementation of Standard Operating Procedures for treatment of persons affected by substance abuse and make medicines required for de-addiction available at every health institution, from Primary Health Centres to Government Medical Colleges. He also reviewed the functioning of indoor de-addiction facilities in new Government Medical Colleges and District Hospitals, and called for trained counsellors in schools, PHCs and through Self Help Groups to strengthen community-level interventions. Dulloo further directed that the proposed Rehabilitation Policy be implemented on a pilot basis in selected districts of both Jammu and Kashmir divisions before being rolled out across the Union Territory. He also called for development of an integrated online platform for monitoring rehabilitation and improving inter-departmental coordination. Emphasising continuous capacity building, he sought structured six-month training calendars for investigating officers and prosecutors and asked the Law Department to examine engaging Special Public Prosecutors for NDPS cases on the pattern of the Narcotics Control Bureau. Earlier, Inspector General of Police, Crime Branch, Sarah Rizvi, presented a detailed review of the Union Territory's anti-narcotics strategy. The presentation revealed that between April and June 2026, as many as 1,856 NDPS cases were registered across J&K, compared to 428 cases during the corresponding period last year and 381 cases in 2024. During the period, 2,190 persons were arrested and 1,455 kilograms of narcotic substances were seized. Financial investigations also recorded a significant jump, with 228 properties worth 138.34 crore attached under the NDPS Act compared to 31 properties worth 7.36 crore during the corresponding period last year. Jammu and Kashmir Police accounted for nearly 50 per cent of the total value of narcotics-related properties attached across the country during 2026. Bank accounts containing 1.40 crore linked to drug trafficking were also frozen. The meeting was informed that recommendations had been made for cancellation or impounding of 839 driving licences, 612 vehicle registration certificates and 52 passports of habitual offenders. Action was also initiated against arms licences, contractor licences, government accommodation and security cover extended to identified offenders. It was further informed that 135 detention proposals had been sponsored under the PIT NDPS Act during 2026, leading to execution of 113 preventive detention orders. On regulation of pharmaceutical drugs, officials said over 10,300 inspections of pharmacies and medical establishments detected 312 violations, resulting in cancellation of 16 licences and suspension of 296 licences. Authorities also seized 17,528 Pregabalin capsules and 6,190 Tapentadol tablets worth over 17 lakh. It was informed that during the current year, authorities destroyed 96 kanals of poppy and 1,157 kanals of cannabis after satellite-based identification across six districts of Kashmir division. The drives resulted in registration of 247 FIRs and booking of 254 cultivators. The meeting was also informed about the expansion of addiction treatment facilities across all districts and capacity-building initiatives through IMHANS Kashmir, under which over 4,100 Master Trainers and nearly 4,900 officers and officials have been trained. Dulloo called upon all stakeholder departments to maintain coordinated efforts to curb drug trafficking, strengthen rehabilitation mechanisms and realise the vision of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.

UGC Identifies 32 Fake Universities Across India, States Asked to Take Legal Action

SRINAGAR: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has identified 32 institutions as fake universities across India, with the latest list published in February 2026, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Wednesday. Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar said in a written reply that the Central Government has asked states and Union Territories to initiate legal []

Trump says deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz could come this week

CAIRO: US President Donald Trump said a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could come this week, as Iran and Oman inched toward an agreement on the critical waterway that could ease pressure on the global economy and potentially help bring an end to the war. The United States, along with Israel, launched the []

7th anniversary of Art 370 abrogation We havent forgotten, havent reconciled: CM Omar Abdullah

LG Sinha says he did not see protests, calls Aug 5 end of discriminatory system NC, PDP hold protests; BJP celebrates with victory rallies Mirwaiz, Tarigami, Sajad Lone call Aug 5 systematic assault on J&K Jammu/Srinagar: Protests and celebrations marked the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, []

J&K, Ladakh witnessed wide-ranging transformation since Art 370 abrogation: PM Modi

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the lives of people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have witnessed wide-ranging transformation, with expansion of infrastructure and growth in opportunities in education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and sports sectors. On the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article []

J&K people have rejected Aug 5 decisions: Dr Farooq

Srinagar: Jammu & Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah today described August 5, 2019 as one of the darkest days in Indias democratic history, saying the decisions taken on that day stripped Jammu & Kashmir of its constitutional guarantees, political identity and statehood. He said the people of Jammu & Kashmir have rejected the []

PDP protests Art 370 abrogation, accuses NC of normalising situation

Srinagar: PDP leader Iltija Mufti took out a protest march here on Wednesday on the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370, and demanded the restoration of the special status of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Iltija, along with party leaders, including MLA Pulwama Waheed Para, and spokesperson Mohit Bhan, took out []

What is the right time: NC asks Centre to restore statehood to J&K

New Delhi: The National Conference (NC) on Wednesday sought to know from the Centre the right time to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, saying the promise made after the completion of delimitation and Assembly elections remained unfulfilled. The remarks made by NC Rajya Sabha MP Shammi Oberoi came on the seventh anniversary of the []

Autumn session of Assembly likely to from Sep 21

Srinagar: The autumn session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly is likely to be convened from September 21, sources disclosed. Sources said that the cabinet, which met on Tuesday afternoon under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is understood to have recommended to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha the convening of the autumn session. []

Rain lashes Kashmir parts; cloudburst hits Kulgam

MeT forecasts more precipitation over next week Srinagar: Rainfall lashed several parts of the Kashmir Valley on Wednesday, while a cloudburst was reported in south Kashmirs Kulgam district, prompting authorities to remain on alert amid forecasts of more rain over the coming days. According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, light to moderate rainfall was recorded []

Para slams Giriraj Singh over terrorist remark on Mehbooba

Outrageous, irresponsible Srinagar: PDP leader Waheed Para on Wednesday termed Union Minister Giriraj Singhs remarks describing former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti as a terrorist as outrageous and irresponsible. Giriraj Singhs remarks calling PDP president Mehbooba Mufti a terrorist are outrageous, irresponsible, and beneath the dignity of a Union Minister. Such language against []

CM visits flood-affected areas of Poonch, assures rehabilitation

Meets bereaved families, expresses condolences Announces 5-marla plots for families rendered landless Poonch: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday visited the flood-affected areas of Poonch district to assess the devastation caused by the recent flash floods and cloudbursts, meet the affected families and review the relief and rehabilitation measures undertaken by the district administration. During []

Resolved to dismantle terror network: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Aug 5:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday handed over appointment letters to 37 Next of Kins (NoKs) of civilians who were brutally killed by terrorists. He said it is a profound honour to stand with the families of terror victims on this historic day and it is not merely about appointment letters but it is about remembrance of martyrs, justice to terror victim families, and the reaffirmation of our national will. My heartfelt tribute to the innocent civilians martyred by terrorists and I salute the families who, after decades of anguish and wait, now hold appointment letters that restore dignity and livelihood. For several decades, the pain of terror victim families remained unacknowledged, their wounds unseen. Terrorism tore apart homes and cast futures into uncertainty. No statistic can capture the anguish and suffering of the terror victim families. The pain lives in memories and in the quiet endurance of those who carried on despite unbearable loss. Todays appointment letters are not just documents of employment but they are symbols of social justice, recognition and the nations solemn promise that its martyrs will never be forgotten, nor their families abandoned, LG Sinha said. Our commitment is reflected in decisive action. After August 5, 2019, we have dismantled the terror ecosystem to a large extent, strengthened the law and order, restored equal rights and created opportunities that allow families to rebuild their lives with confidence. He said that the transformation witnessed today in J&K was due to the historic changes of August 5, 2019. That day marked a constitutional correction and a new beginning for J&K. Discriminatory barriers were removed, equal rights were extended to those who were suffering due to discriminatory laws. The principle of one nation, one flag, one constitution was fully implemented and one standard of dignity, justice, and opportunity for all the Indian citizens was upheld, the LG said, adding that under the leadership of Prime Minister NarendraModi, the marginalised groups, tribals, displaced persons from PoK and Chhamb and refugees have received legal rights such as full citizenship, voting rights and ownership rights over property under the Constitution of India. Farmers and artisans are creating new opportunities. Our universities, colleges, research and incubation centres are preparing the new generation for global competition, he said. LG Sinha that the terror victim families receiving appointment letters today are among the many beneficiaries of this new order post abrogation of Article 370. Their cases, delayed for decades, have finally been addressed. This is not compensation for loss because no money, no job, no paper can replace a loved one. It is, however, an assurance that the nation stands beside them and we are determined to help rebuild lives and restore dignity, he said. The LG highlighted that due to Article 370 and 35-A, the terror ecosystem was operating with impunity and their aim was to fracture the society, spread fear and silence the hope and dream. After abrogation of Article 370, the attempt of neighbouring country and terror ecosystem operating in the valley was foiled. The people of Jammu Kashmir have chosen peace over violence, education over indoctrination, jobs over dependency, and dignity over despair. The young generation deserve a future free of fear and that is the future we are building together under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri NarendraModi, he said. Our work is about justice, development, and inclusion. LG Sinha said peace must be anchored in opportunity. A society that trusts its institutions becomes resilient against fear. A family that receives services without discrimination becomes a stakeholder in peace and progress. A youth empowered with education and employment is empowered to fight separatism and terrorism. Justice for terror victims is moving with speed and sincerity because it is a national obligation. No grievance is being ignored, no family will be left invisible. Justice delayed has caused enough suffering. Now justice to the terror victim families is timely, humane, responsive and consistent. This day also sends a message to the enemies of peace that terrorism cannot defeat a determined nation. Its handlers from across the border may conspire in darkness, but the light of justice will find them. Jammu Kashmirs future will be written by its youth, its workers, its farmers, its teachers, its women and all who believe in peace and progress, he said. The LG called upon people to remember this day as a turning point, when wounds of common man were acknowledged, suffering was met with swift action, equal rights were provided to all, discriminatory laws were revoked and the nation renewed its resolve to secure a brighter future for Jammu and Kashmir. We are absolutely resolved to dismantle the terror network, to bring its perpetrators and enablers to justice and to secure for every citizen of J&K a life of peace, equality, and hope. Under the leadership of Prime Minister NarendraModi, the shadows of discrimination lifted in 2019, ushering in a new era of social justice and inclusive development. Today, Jammu Kashmir is advancing with renewed confidence and all-around development is driving peace and prosperity, he said. By ending the system that bred discrimination and terrorism, the Honble Prime Minister NarendraModi made it clear that in Jammu Kashmir, lamps of prosperity would not burn only in a select few palaces but also in the huts of the poor. Today, after 33 years, a lamp has been lit in the home of martyr Wali Mohammad Wani of Shopian. On 16 July 1993, Wali Mohammad was killed by terrorists bullets. Today not only his family but the entire Shopian feels connected to the national mainstream. LG Sinha said that Industrial growth witnessed by Jammu and Kashmir post abrogation of Article 370 is unprecedented. Prime Minister NarendraModi has also fulfilled the decades-long dream of rail travel from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. In the financial year 2025-26, investment in Jammu Kashmir amounted to Rs 5,824 crore, which is 13 times the average investment in the period before 2021. Jammu Airport and Srinagar Airport are being expanded and connectivity is being further strengthened by GoI. Prime Minister NarendraModi is committed to double hydroelectric power generation by 2028, he said. Issuing a stern warning to conflict profiteers, the LG said that the days of those with corrupt intentions including individuals attempting to influence the system are officially over. He warned that anyone trying to cause disruptions will face severe consequences. Appointment letters were also handed over to 32 beneficiaries under Compassionate Appointment Rules SRO-43 and Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (RAS). Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo; DGP, Nalin Prabhat; Principal Secretary Home, Chandraker Bharti; Commissioner Secretary, GAD, M Raju; IGP Kashmir, V K Birdi; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, AnshulGarg; Chairman, Save Youth Save Future Foundation, Wajahat Farooq Bhat and other members of the Foundation, senior officials, members of various social organisations and family members of victims of terrorism were present.

Poonch floods : CM Omar announces 5-marla plots for families rendered landless

Poonch, Aug 05: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday visited the flood-affected areas of Poonch district to assess the devastation caused by recent flash floods and cloudbursts, meet affected families, and review relief and rehabilitation measures undertaken by the district administration. During the visit, the Chief Minister met bereaved families in Murrah, Surankote, and Arigam-Loran, expressed his heartfelt condolences, and assured them of the Government's unwavering support in overcoming the tragedy. At Murrah, Abdullah visited the residence of Mohammad Latif, who tragically losteight members of his familyin the flashfloods, offeringhis deepest sympathies andprayingfor eternalpeace to the departed souls and strength tothe bereaved family. In Surankote, the CM interacted with affected families and a delegation from Sangla, Darra Sangla, and Lower Sangla, who apprised him of extensive damagecausedto residential houses, agricultural land, and infrastructure, besides the tragic loss of lives. The Chief Minister also visited Arigam-Loran, where he met the family of Mohd Rafiq and Riaz Ahmed, who lost seven members of their family in the flash floods. He participated in Fatiha Khwani, prayed for the departed souls, and conveyed his profound condolences to the grieving family. Interacting with affected residents, CM Omar Abdullah patiently heard their grievances and hardships arising from the naturalcalamity, assuringthem that the Government stands firmly with every affected family and would ensure all possible relief, rehabilitation, and assistance. Announcing a major rehabilitation measure, he said that families who have been rendered landless due to the disaster would be provided 5-marla plots for their resettlement. Referring to the unprecedented nature of the disaster, the Chief Minister said it was unfortunate that cloudbursts remain difficult to predict with existing technological capabilities. He said the Government would explore the adoption of advanced early-warning technologies to improve disaster preparedness and help minimise the loss of lives and property in the future. Later, the Chief Minister chaired a review meeting to assess rescue, relief, and rehabilitation measures undertaken by the District Administration. He directed officers to expedite damage assessment, ensure immediate relief, and restore essential services. He appreciated the prompt, coordinated, and dedicated response of the civil administration and other agencies involved in relief operations, particularly commending the Deputy Commissioner, Poonch, and the Senior Superintendent of Police, Poonch, for their proactive leadership and timely interventions. The Chief Minister was accompanied by Minister for Jal Shakti Javed Ahmed Rana, MLA Poonch-Haveli Aijaz Ahmed Jan, MLA Surankote Choudhary Mohammad Akram, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, senior district officers, and other concerned officials.

J&Ks milk production touches 29.7 lakh tonnes

Srinagar, Aug 05: Jammu and Kashmir's milk production rose to 29.7 lakh tonnes in 2024-25 from 28.7 lakh tonnes in 2023-24 and 28.2 lakh tonnes in 2022-23, according to data placed before the Lok Sabha. Per capita milk availability in the region also rose, to 595 grams per day in 2024-25 from 577 grams the previous year, well above the national average of 485 grams per day, the data showed. The figures were part of a written reply to Starred Question on strengthening dairy infrastructure, raised by Geniben Nagaji Thakor. The question was answered by Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh. Central assistance to Jammu and Kashmir under the government's dairy development schemes swung sharply from year to year, the data showed. Funding under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, aimed at improving milk productivity, rose from nothing in 2023-24 to Rs 61.20 crore in 2024-25, then fell to Rs 14.13 crore in 2025-26. Support under the National Programme for Dairy Development moved in the opposite direction, from Rs 24.31 crore in 2023-24 to zero the following year, before rising marginally to Rs 1.40 crore in 2025-26. J&K received no funds at all under the Supporting Dairy Cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organisations scheme in any of the three years, the data show, while releases under the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund stayed negligible, ranging between Rs 0.02 crore and Rs 0.09 crore. The Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme, which funds disease prevention and vaccination drives, was the steadiest source of support for the region, with releases of Rs 18.85 crore, Rs 20.37 crore and Rs 16.50 crore over the three years. Funding under the National Livestock Mission rose each year, from Rs 1 crore in 2023-24 to Rs 9.10 crore in 2025-26. The government said the six schemes, which also include the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund and National Programme for Dairy Development, are meant to improve milk productivity, expand the network of dairy cooperatives, strengthen infrastructure, and enhance the availability of feed and fodder across states. Nationally, milk production rose to 247.87 million tonnes in 2024-25 from 239.30 million tonnes in 2023-24, making India the world's largest milk producer, the govt said. The government said that as of June 2026, 36,611 new dairy cooperative societies had been organised nationwide and 34,557 strengthened at the village level under the National Programme for Dairy Development, as part of the White Revolution 2.0 initiative. About 168 lakh litres per day of milk chilling capacity has been created, along with 76,748 quality testing devices distributed, it said. Asked whether any new scheme was planned for animal disease prevention, quality feed provision, or expanding artificial insemination facilities, the government said existing schemes adequately cover these areas and there was no proposal for a new scheme.

Terror victims families finally get justice: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Aug 05: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday handed over appointment letters to 37 Next of Kins (NoKs) of civilians who were brutally killed by terrorists, describing it as a profound honour to stand with the families of terror victims on this historic day. It is not merely about appointment letters, butit is about remembrance of martyrs, justice to terror victim families, and the reaffirmation ofour national will, Sinha said. My heartfelt tribute to the innocent civilians martyred by terrorists, and I salute the families who, after decades of anguish and wait, now hold appointment letters that restore dignity and livelihood. For several decades, the pain of terror victim families remained unacknowledged, their wounds unseen. Terrorism tore apart homes and cast futures into uncertainty, the LG added. The Lieutenant Governor said the appointment letters are not just documents of employment but symbols of social justice, recognition, and the nation's solemn promise that its martyrs will never be forgotten nor their families abandoned. He also said thatafterAugust 5, 2019, the government has dismantled the terrorecosystem to a large extent,strengthened law and order, restored equal rights, and created opportunitiesthat allowfamilies to rebuild their lives with confidence. Today's appointment letters are not just documents of employment, but they are symbols of social justice, recognition and the nation's solemn promise that its martyrs will never be forgotten, nor their families abandoned, the Lieutenant Governor said. Sinha said that the terror victim families receiving appointment letters today are among the many beneficiaries of the new order post-abrogation of Article 370. Their cases, delayed for decades, have finally been addressed. This is not compensation for loss because no money, no job, no paper can replace a loved one. It is, however, an assurance that the nation stands beside them and we are determined to help rebuild lives and restore dignity, he said. Reaffirming the government's commitment, the Lieutenant Governor said, We are absolutely resolved to dismantle the terror network, to bring its perpetrators and enablers to justice and to secure for every citizen of UT a life of peace, equality, and hope. He said that by ending the system that bred discrimination and terrorism, Prime Minister Modi made it clear that in Jammu and Kashmir, lamps of prosperity would burn not only in select palaces but also in the huts of the poor. After 33 years, a lamp has been lit in the home of martyr Wali Mohammad Wani of Shopian. On 16 July 1993, Wali Mohammad was killed by terrorists' bullets. Today, not only his family but the entire Shopian feels connected to the national mainstream, Sinha said. The Lieutenant Governor observed that peace must be anchored in opportunity. A society that trusts its institutions becomes resilient against fear. A family that receives services without discrimination becomes a stakeholder in peace and progress. A youth empowered with education and employment is empowered to fight separatism and terrorism. Appointment letters were also handed over to 32 beneficiaries under Compassionate Appointment Rules SRO-43 and Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (RAS). The event was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, DGP Nalin Prabhat, and other senior officials.

Discriminatory system ended in 2019: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Aug 05: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, marked a constitutional correction and a new beginning for Jammu and Kashmir, removing discriminatory barriers and extending equal rights to those who had long suffered under special provisions. The transformation we witness today in Jammu Kashmir is due to the historic changes of 5th August 2019. That day marked a constitutional correction and a new beginning for the UT. Discriminatory barriers were removed, and equal rights were extended to those who were suffering due to discriminatory laws. The principle of one nation, one flag, one constitution was fully implemented, and one standard of dignity, justice, and opportunity for all Indian citizens was upheld, the Lieutenant Governor said. Speaking after handing over appointment letters to 37 Next of Kins of civilians killed by terrorists, Sinha said under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marginalised groups, tribals, displaced persons from PoK and Chhamb, and refugees have received full citizenship, voting rights, and ownership rights over property under the Constitution of India. Farmers and artisans are creating new opportunities. Our universities, colleges, research and incubation centres are preparing the new generation for global competition, he said. Sinha said that due to Article 370 and 35A, the terror ecosystem was operating with impunity, and their aim was to fracture society, spread fear and silence hope. After the abrogation of Article 370, the attempt of the neighbouring country and the terror ecosystem operating in the valley was foiled. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have chosen peace over violence, education over indoctrination, jobs over dependency, and dignity over despair. The young generation deserves a future free of fear, and that is the future we are building together under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said. The LG saidthatindustrial growth witnessed by Jammu and Kashmir post-abrogation is unprecedented. In the financial year 2025-26, investment in J&K amounted to Rs 5,824 crore, which is 13 times the average investment before 2021. He also said Prime Minister Modi is committed to doubling hydroelectric power generation by 2028. The shadows of discrimination lifted in 2019, ushering in a new era of social justice and inclusive development. Today, Jammu Kashmir is advancing with renewed confidence, and all-around development is driving peace and prosperity, the Lieutenant Governor said. Issuing a stern warning, Sinha said the days of conflict profiteers and those with corrupt intentions are officially over, and anyone trying to cause disruptions will face severe consequences.

Article 370 abrogation brought development, dignity to J&K: PM Modi

New Delhi, Aug 05: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the lives of people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have witnessed wide-ranging transformation, with infrastructure expanding and opportunities growing in education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and sports. Marking seven years since the historic abrogation of Articles 370 and 35(A), the Prime Minister described August 5, 2019, as a defining milestone in India's journey towards inclusive development. In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi said: Seven years ago, on this day, Articles 370 and 35(A) became history, marking a decisive new chapter in the journey of Jammu and Kashmir as well as Ladakh. Since then, the lives of the people of J&K and Ladakh have witnessed wide-ranging transformation. Infrastructure has expanded, opportunities in areas such as education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and sports have grown. Be it the women or the marginalised communities, those who were denied their basic constitutional rights for decades have been empowered thanks to the full application of the Constitution of India. The Prime Minister observed that this year's anniversary assumes even greater significance as the nation commemorates the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. His lifelong commitment to national unity continues to inspire generations. What he envisioned decades ago found historic fulfilment on 5th August 2019, he said. Reaffirming the government's unwavering commitment to the development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, the Prime Minister said that every citizen must have the opportunity to dream big, realise their aspirations, and contribute to the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

Second cloudburst in 15 days hits Boniyar, triggers flash flood

Srinagar, Aug 5: A cloudburst struck the upper reaches of Lachipora village in Boniyar tehsil of north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Wednesday, triggering flash floods and sending a heavy flow of mud, debris and uprooted trees rushing towards the village. The incident marks the second cloudburst to hit Boniyar tehsil in the past fifteen days, raising concerns among residents over recurring weather-related disasters in the area. According to officials, the cloudburst occurred in the forested upper reaches of Lachipora during the afternoon, leading to a sudden surge of water mixed with mud, rocks and fallen trees. The flash floods created panic among residents, prompting authorities to remain on high alert. Soon after receiving information about the incident, a police team led by the Station House Officer (SHO) of Bijhama rushed to the spot to assess the situation and monitor developments. Local authorities also kept a close watch on the affected area to ensure the safety of residents. Officials said no loss of life or damage to property had been reported till the filing of this report. However, they continued to monitor the situation as a precautionary measure, given the possibility of further runoff from the upper catchments. The latest incident comes barely two weeks after a similar cloudburst struck the upper reaches of Mayan village in Boniyar tehsil on July 23. That cloudburst had triggered flash floods that washed away culverts, disrupted road connectivity and other essential services, and prompted rescue and restoration operations by the district administration and police.

Complex ovarian cyst removed at Kangan hospital

Ganderbal , Aug 5: In a significant milestone for healthcare services in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district, doctors at Trauma Hospital Kangan successfully performed a complex laparoscopic surgery to remove a very large endometriotic kissing ovarian cyst measuring 140 mm 139 mm, diagnosed as Grade-4 Endometriosis, marking another major achievement in the hospital's growing capacity to provide advanced gynaecological care. The surgery was successfully carried out on August 3, 2026, on a 45-year-old female patient, who was managed entirely at Trauma Hospital Kangan without requiring referral to any tertiary care hospital. The successful management of such a complicated case at the district level highlights the increasing availability of specialised surgical services closer to the community. The surgical procedure was led by Dr. Rafiq Simnani and assisted by Dr. Shaheena, Dr. Majid, Mr. Showkat, and other operation theatre staff. The anaesthesia team comprised Dr. Masrat, Dr. Umar, Mr. Gowhar, and supporting staff, whose coordinated efforts ensured the successful completion of the minimally invasive procedure. Hospital officials said the successful laparoscopic removal of such a large endometriotic ovarian cyst reflects the institution's enhanced expertise in managing advanced gynaecological conditions through minimally invasive techniques. Laparoscopic surgery offers several advantages over conventional open surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, less post-operative pain, faster recovery, shorter hospital stay and quicker return to normal activities. The procedure was performed under the close supervision of Medical Superintendent, Trauma Hospital Kangan, Dr. Nazir Ahmad, who congratulated the entire surgical, anaesthesia and operation theatre teams for their professionalism, dedication and teamwork in successfully handling the challenging case. Officials also noted that the latest achievement builds upon the hospital's earlier success in advanced laparoscopic surgery. On July 9, 2018, Trauma Hospital Kangan created history by performing its first major laparoscopic surgery in Ganderbal district, during which a giant benign tumour measuring approximately 20 15 centimetres and weighing around 4.5 kilograms, containing clear fluid, was successfully removed. That landmark surgery was performed by a team comprising Dr. Faroze Khan, Consultant Surgeon; Dr. Imtiyaz Yatoo; Dr. Shaheena Rasool, Consultant Gynaecologist; Dr. Arshiya; Dr. Faheem, Consultant Anaesthetist; along with Farooq Ahmad Rather, Sheikh Gowhar, Sheikh Hilal, Showkat Magray, Muhammad Yaqoob, Amina, and Mushtaq Sheikh from the operation theatre staff. The patient had recovered well and was discharged on the fourth post-operative day. Healthcare professionals described the successful surgery as another important step in strengthening advanced surgical services at Trauma Hospital Kangan, demonstrating that even highly complex gynaecological procedures can now be safely performed locally, reducing the need for patients from Ganderbal and adjoining areas to travel to tertiary care hospitals for specialised treatment.

SDH Kangan steps up breastfeeding awareness

Ganderbal, Aug 5: Sub District Hospital Kangan on Wednesday organised a World Breastfeeding Week awareness programme, with doctors urging mothers to start breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and continue exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. The week-long awareness programme, being observed from August 1 to 7 under the supervision of Medical Superintendent Dr. Nazir Ahmad, saw obstetricians, nursing officers and maternity care staff conducting counselling sessions for pregnant women and newly delivered mothers, while demonstrating correct breastfeeding techniques and discouraging harmful feeding practices such as giving honey, water, gutti or unnecessary formula feeds to newborns. Leading the awareness campaign, Dr. Anjum told Rising Kashmir that breast milk is a child's first and most complete food and that every newborn must receive colostrum, the first milk produced after delivery, which is rich in antibodies and essential nutrients that act as the baby's first natural protection against infections and life-threatening illnesses. Breastfeeding should begin within one hour of birth, continue exclusively for six months, and thereafter be complemented with appropriate foods while breastfeeding continues up to two years of age, she said, adding that exclusive breastfeeding remains one of the most effective and economical public health measures for ensuring healthy childhood development. Dr. Anjum said breast milk is naturally available, hygienic, nutritionally balanced and requires no preparation, making it the safest source of nourishment for infants irrespective of economic status. She cautioned families against traditional practices of administering honey, water or other substances immediately after birth, saying such practices interfere with successful breastfeeding and may expose newborns to preventable health risks. Highlighting the challenges faced by first-time mothers, Dr. Anjum said many women require practical guidance rather than replacement feeds. She said trained hospital staff provide one-to-one counselling, demonstrate proper positioning and latching techniques and assist mothers experiencing breastfeeding difficulties to prevent complications such as cracked nipples and breast abscesses. Dedicated nursing staff member Sumaiya Ashraf said breastfeeding provides complete nutrition to infants while supporting maternal wellbeing by improving hormonal balance and reducing the likelihood of postpartum depression. She urged mothers to rely on breastfeeding as the primary source of nutrition for their babies during the first six months of life. During the programme, newly delivered mothers participated in interactive counselling sessions and practical demonstrations on breastfeeding techniques.

Murder accused gets bail after eight years in Baramulla

Srinagar, Aug 5: An Additional Sessions Court in Baramulla has granted regular bail to an accused in a 2018 murder case after he spent more than eight years in judicial custody while the trial remained pending. According to the prosecution, the case arose after a woman went missing. During the investigation, it was alleged that the accused, along with a co-accused, conspired to murder her, disposed of the body in a forest area, and attempted to destroy evidence. The prosecution opposed the bail plea, contending that the case was supported by a complete chain of circumstantial evidence, including motive, last-seen evidence, disclosure statements, recoveries, and other incriminating material. The defence argued that the accused had already undergone over eight years of incarceration as an undertrial, the prosecution had concluded its entire evidence, there was no likelihood of influencing witnesses, and continued detention would violate the constitutional guarantee of personal liberty and the right to a speedy trial. The defence also relied on the principles of parity and prolonged incarceration. After considering the rival submissions, the Court granted bail, holding that while the prosecution had made out a prima facie case, the prolonged incarceration, completion of prosecution evidence, advanced stage of the trial, and constitutional considerations justified the grant of bail. The Court clarified that the observations made in the bail order would not affect the merits of the trial. The accused was represented by Adv. Showkat Dar and Adv. Qazi Mohammad Athar, whose persistent legal efforts and effective advocacy resulted in securing the bail after prolonged custody.

Decade-old Rajwar water project nears completion

Srinagar, Aug 5: After nearly a decade of delay, the much awaited Lower Rajwar Raw Water Main Project has entered its final stage, bringing hope to around 25,000 residents across 13 villages in Handwara. Officials said testing of the scheme is currently underway and the project is expected to be commissioned later this week. The project, executed by the PHE Division Handwara Baramulla, involved laying a 9 kilometre long, 200 millimetre diameter Ductile Iron raw water main connecting the water source with the filtration plant and service reservoir. Once operational, the scheme will provide a dependable drinking water supply to residents of Dudipora, Bakiakher, Baderher, Budkot, Machipora, Khirman, Nabedzab, Nagranar, Baderkali, Bahadarpora, Goriakher, Wadipora and Lachipora. An official of the PHE Division Handwara said the project has reached the final testing phase and will soon be made operational, significantly improving drinking water availability across the Rajwar area. Residents welcomed the development, saying the project had remained incomplete for almost 10 years despite repeated promises. We are very happy that this long pending project is finally becoming a reality. Since Executive Engineer Aijaz Ahmad took charge, the work gained momentum and has now reached completion. It is a huge relief for the people of Rajwar, said local resident Mohammad Ayoub. Locals recalled that the absence of a reliable drinking water supply had forced many families to travel long distances to fetch water. Some also remembered the tragic Rajpora incident in which three members of a family lost their lives while on their way to collect water. Another resident, Shamim Ahmad, appreciated the progress and appealed to the authorities to expedite other pending drinking water schemes in the area. We request Executive Engineer to ensure that the remaining projects are completed at the earliest so that more villages can benefit from reliable drinking water facilities, he said. The commissioning of the Lower Rajwar Water Supply Project is expected to end years of water scarcity and ensure safe, dependable drinking water for thousands of residents in the area.

Kokernag emerges as major tourist draw

Srinagar, Aug 5: The picturesque Kokernag tourist destination in south Kashmirs Anantnag district has witnessed a remarkable surge in tourist arrivals over the past three years, with more than 30 lakh visitors flocking to the famed destination, reflecting the growing popularity of Kashmirs tourism sector. Official data from the Kokernag Development Authority (KDA) shows that a total of 30,62,654 visitors visited Kokernag between 2023 and July 2026. The footfall comprised 1,38,319 domestic tourists, 29,23,201 local visitors and 1,134 foreign tourists. Nestled amid lush green forests and surrounded by the majestic Pir Panjal ranges, Kokernag is renowned for its crystal-clear freshwater spring, one of the largest natural springs in Kashmir, and the sprawling Kokernag Botanical Park, which attracts nature lovers, families, photographers and picnickers throughout the year. The destination is particularly popular during the summer months when thousands of visitors arrive to enjoy its cool climate, landscaped gardens, trout streams and serene surroundings. According to the official figures, 7,90,451 tourists visited Kokernag in 2023, including 22,253 domestic tourists, 7,67,997 local visitors and 201 foreign tourists. Tourist arrivals increased significantly in 2024, when the destination welcomed 10,47,733 visitors, comprising 59,002 domestic tourists, 9,88,012 local visitors and 719 foreign tourists, marking one of the highest annual footfalls in recent years. In 2025, Kokernag received 6,12,235 visitors, including 28,532 domestic tourists, 5,83,596 local visitors and 107 foreign tourists. The official data further reveals that up to July 2026, Kokernag has already recorded 6,12,235 visitors, comprising 28,532 domestic tourists, 5,83,596 local visitors and 107 foreign tourists, indicating sustained tourist interest in the destination. The steady rise in tourist arrivals has also translated into higher revenue for the Kokernag Development Authority. The authority generated a cumulative revenue of Rs 1,53,53,474 over the period. This includes Rs 26,94,798 during 2024-25, Rs 98,67,398 during 2025-26, and Rs 27,91,278 up to July 2026. Tourism officials attribute the increasing footfall to improved road connectivity, enhanced visitor facilities, extensive tourism promotion and the revival of Kashmirs tourism industry in recent years. The scenic beauty of Kokernag, coupled with its iconic spring, beautifully maintained botanical park, trout fish farms and family-friendly recreational spaces, has made it one of the most sought-after destinations in south Kashmir. Apart from leisure tourists, Kokernag also attracts students, environmental enthusiasts and photographers who visit the destination to experience its rich biodiversity and tranquil environment.

Strengthening What Works: Improving Breastfeeding in the Indian Context

Every year, World Breastfeeding Week reminds us of one of the simplest and most powerful ways to give every child the best possible start in life. It highlights the importance to begin breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, feeding babies only breast milk for the first six months, and continue breastfeeding alongside complementary foods until the age of two years or beyond. This year's theme, Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works, highlights the need to promote, and support breastfeeding as a cornerstone of child survival, maternal health, and sustainable development. Breastfeeding is often described as nature's first vaccine, but it is much more than that. It provides ideal nutrition, protects against infectious diseases, supports cognitive development, lowers the risk of obesity and non-communicable diseases later in life, and contributes to maternal health by reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancers and type 2 diabetes. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-6 data shows significant improvements in breastfeeding indicators in India. Early initiation of breastfeeding, defined as a baby being breastfed within the first hour after birth, has increased from 41.8% to 50.1%. This is significant progress as the first hour is a window that is very important for establishing bonding, ensuring exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, and strengthening newborn immunity. Breastfeeding is often seen solely as a mother's responsibility, but in reality, it is a shared responsibility. Mothers need the right support. They need skilled counselling during pregnancy and immediately after childbirth to build confidence and address common challenges. When difficulties arise, access to trained health workers and lactation support can make all the difference. Families also have an important role to play by encouraging mothers, sharing household responsibilities, and creating a supportive environment. For working mothers, supportive workplace policies, including paid maternity leave, flexible work arrangements, breastfeeding breaks, and safe, private spaces to express and store breast milk are essential. When families, communities, health systems, employers, and governments work together, mothers are better able to breastfeed successfully, giving every child the healthiest possible start in life. A study analysing data from the NFHS-4 and NFHS-5 found that mothers who attended more antenatal care visits and those who delivered in public health facilities were more likely to exclusively breastfeed their infants. Conversely, exclusive breastfeeding was less likely among mothers under 20 years of age, babies born with low birth weight, and cases where breastfeeding was initiated more than an hour after birth. These findings highlight how quality counselling and support from the health system can play a crucial role in helping mothers successfully breastfeed. As this year's theme emphasises Strengthen What Works, it is important to build on the initiatives that are already in place. The Poshan Abhiyaan, under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, identifies Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) as a key strategy to address inadequate and inappropriate infant and young child feeding practices. Through annual Poshan Maah and Poshan Pakhwada campaigns, the programme has brought breastfeeding and infant and young child feeding to the national spotlight by promoting awareness, strengthening counselling services, and enhancing the engagement of frontline workers. However, these efforts need to be strengthened further through greater convergence with community-based platforms. Inadequate breastfeeding is estimated to contribute to 73,417 child deaths from diarrhoea and acute respiratory infections each year, while imposing an economic burden of nearly US$16.6 billion annually. World Health Assembly's target is of achieving 70% exclusive breastfeeding by 2030. Reaching this goal demands policies and implementing programmes that will need to galvanise actions that help mothers overcome obstacles and ensure adequate support to achieve the recommended practices of early, exclusive, and continued breastfeeding. The Global Breastfeeding Collective calls for a range of policy measures, including increased funding to raise rates of early, exclusive, and continued breastfeeding; enforcement of the Infant Milk Substitutes (IMS) Act by imposing stricter penalties on violators and increasing the Act's overall uptake across sectors; broader paid leave and workplace provisions for all workers; adoption of the 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding across maternity facilities; increased access to skilled breastfeeding counselling, reinforced by closer links between health facilities and communities; and stronger monitoring systems to track progress against breastfeeding targets. This year's theme, Strengthen What Works, is already reflected in several ongoing efforts in India. Ministry of Women and Chid Development continues to run BCC and Information, Education, and Communication campaigns to spread breastfeeding messages widely, alongside efforts to strengthen enforcement of the IMS Act to check aggressive formula marketing. At the field level, digital solutions such as the Poshan Tracker not only enable effective monitoring of Anganwadi services but also provide tools within the application for effective interpersonal counselling at home, tracking breastfeeding indicators from the child's birth. The recently launched Home Visit Scheduler, which aligns joint home visits with health functionaries, and beneficiary module where beneficiary can access integrated information videos are just one such initiative already in place. Strengthening these efforts across health and nutrition systems will be key to closing India's breastfeeding gap and meeting both India's own nutrition goals and the global 2030 target. (The Authors are Research Lead, Anuvaad Solutions and Nutrition Lead, Anuvaad Solutions. Courtesy: PIB)

Reading Khalil Jibran in Modern Times

Khalil Jibran remains one of those rare writers whose words refuse to grow old. In an age defined by noise, haste, distraction and increasing emotional emptiness, his voice comes to us with surprising freshness. He wrote of love, sorrow, freedom, pain, faith and the human soul in a language that was simple, lyrical and deeply humane. More than a century later, his thoughts still feel like a mirror held up to our confused modern life. In a world where people are increasingly connected through technology but often disconnected from one another in spirit, Jibrans words remind us of what it means to be truly alive, truly compassionate and truly human. Jibrans relevance in modern times lies first in his extraordinary understanding of the inner life. Today, people live under constant pressure to perform, to appear successful, to remain visible and to keep pace with a world that never seems to pause. Yet beneath this restless exterior lies an old and familiar ache: loneliness, uncertainty, longing and the search for meaning. Jibran understood these emotions with unusual depth. He knew that the human being is not merely a social or economic creature, but a soul struggling to find dignity, tenderness and purpose. That is why his writing continues to touch readers across generations. It speaks not only to the mind but to the heart. What makes Jibran especially important in our time is his insistence on the moral and spiritual dimensions of life. Modern society often celebrates speed over reflection, consumption over contentment and appearance over substance. In such an environment, his message feels almost revolutionary. He asked people to look within, to value sincerity over pretence, to cherish love without possession and to seek freedom without cruelty. These are not outdated ideals. On the contrary, they are urgently needed in a world where relationships are fragile, public discourse is harsh and the individual often feels reduced to a number, a profile or a transaction. Jibran also remains deeply relevant because he wrote with a universal humanism that transcends borders, religions and political divisions. His work cannot be confined to any one community or nation, because it speaks to the common condition of humanity. This universality is particularly important in the modern age, when societies are increasingly fractured by identity politics, intolerance and ideological extremism. Jibrans message cuts through such divisions. He reminds us that human beings share the same pain, the same hopes and the same vulnerability. In this sense, he is not just a poet of the East or the Arab world; he is a poet of humanity. In modern times, when public life is often dominated by cynicism and confrontation, Jibrans emphasis on compassion is especially significant. He did not preach weakness; he preached kindness as strength. He did not ask people to escape reality; he asked them to approach reality with wisdom and mercy. This is a lesson modern society desperately needs. The language of hatred is easy, but the language of understanding requires character. Jibrans writings encourage that character. They ask us to rise above bitterness, to preserve dignity in suffering and to recognise that the human heart is too precious to be hardened by the world. His views on love are perhaps among the most remembered, and for good reason. In an age where relationships are often hurried, conditional and influenced by convenience, Jibrans idea of love as freedom, trust and mutual respect offers a much-needed corrective. He rejected possessiveness and emotional suffocation. He saw love not as ownership but as a meeting of two souls who allow each other to grow. This idea is strikingly modern. Today, when many relationships collapse under the weight of expectations, jealousy and insecurity, Jibrans philosophy offers a healthier and more generous understanding of human connection. At the same time, Jibrans criticism of hollow social conventions still resonates. He was never interested in blind obedience to tradition or in empty rituals that lacked moral substance. He valued authenticity. This too speaks powerfully to modern audiences, especially young people who often feel trapped between inherited expectations and the demands of a rapidly changing world. Jibran encourages them to think independently, feel deeply and live honestly. He does not offer easy answers, but he does offer courage the courage to be true to ones conscience. In the contemporary world, where mental stress, alienation and spiritual fatigue are widespread, Jibrans work can almost feel therapeutic. His poetry and prose do not merely entertain; they console, awaken and heal. He gives language to grief without making grief hopeless. He speaks of pain without turning it into despair. He speaks of struggle without stripping it of meaning. This is perhaps why his words remain alive in schools, homes, literary circles and private moments of reflection. People return to him not because he is fashionable, but because he is truthful. Yet to appreciate Jibran in modern times is also to recognise a certain tension. His writing is often idealistic, and modern reality can be harsher, more politically charged and more fragmented than the world he imagined. Some may argue that his spiritual and philosophical style does not always speak directly to the practical crises of today poverty, violence, corruption, war and social injustice. That is a fair point. But literature does not always solve problems in a direct way. Sometimes it enlarges the human spirit enough to face them with greater clarity and strength. In that sense, Jibrans role is not to replace action, but to deepen conscience. His enduring power lies in this very balance between beauty and seriousness. He writes with a rare elegance, but his elegance is never empty. Behind the poetic cadence is a genuine concern for the human condition. He understood that a civilisation without soul becomes brittle, and that progress without moral vision can leave people more alone than before. In the digital age, this warning is more relevant than ever. Technology has changed the way we live, communicate and work, but it has not answered the fundamental questions of existence. Jibran still speaks to those questions. For the modern reader, then, Khalil Jibran is not merely a literary figure from the past. He is a companion for troubled times, a reminder that the inner world matters as much as the outer one. He teaches that love must be free, suffering must be understood, and life must be lived with depth rather than haste. His words continue to offer light in an age that often prefers glare. That is why he still matters perhaps more now than before. In a world rushing toward the future, Jibran gently asks us to remember the soul. ( The author is a PhD scholar in English literature and a freelancer)

Kashmirs Wetlands: The Lifelines We Are Losing

Kashmir has always been described as a paradise, but its real beauty has never been limited to snow-clad peaks, chinar-lined avenues, or saffron fields. Beneath the romance of the landscape lies a quieter, older, and far more fragile gift: its wetlands. These shimmering stretches of water and marshland are not merely scenic spaces on a map. They are living systems that sustain birds, fish, farmers, groundwater, climate stability, and the very rhythm of life in the Valley. Yet, in the name of development, convenience, and short-term gain, these wetlands are shrinking, choking, and disappearing before our eyes. What makes Kashmirs wetlands so vital is not difficult to understand. They are the valleys natural sponges, absorbing excess rainwater and floodwaters, easing pressure on rivers and drains, and reducing the risk of catastrophic inundation. They recharge groundwater, filter pollutants, regulate local temperature, and provide breeding grounds for fish and nesting sites for migratory birds. In a region as ecologically sensitive and climatically vulnerable as Kashmir, wetlands are not luxuries. They are survival infrastructure. To damage them is to weaken the valleys own defense system. And yet, that is precisely what has been happening. Dal Lake, Nigeen, Hokersar, Haigam, Shallabugh, Wular, Mirgund, Krunchoo and dozens of smaller wetland ecosystems have all suffered varying degrees of pressure from encroachment, sewage discharge, illegal construction, unplanned tourism, siltation, and administrative apathy. Some of these waters are visibly shrinking, while others are being slowly strangled by weeds, waste, and unchecked human interference. What was once open water now looks like a patchwork of reeds, debris, and reclamation. The crisis of wetlands in Kashmir is not only an environmental issue; it is a question of governance and public ethics. We have become experts at mourning decline after the damage is done. Every few years, when floods hit, when birds fail to arrive in expected numbers, or when a lake turns visibly toxic, the valley briefly awakens to the fact that something precious has been lost. Committees are formed, drives are launched, promises are made. Then the news cycle moves on, and the wetlands remain trapped in the same slow death. Hokersar, often called the Queen Wetland of Kashmir, is a case in point. It is not just a habitat for migratory birds; it is one of the most important bird refuges in the entire Himalayan region. Every winter, thousands of birds from Central Asia and beyond descend upon the wetland, reminding us that Kashmir still sits on a global ecological corridor. But what kind of welcome are we offering them? Encroachments, pollution, and shrinking water channels have turned what should be a sanctuary into a site of constant worry. If Hokersar suffers, it is not only birds that lose a home; the entire ecological chain weakens. Wular, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, tells a similar story, though on a grander scale. Once a mighty basin that moderated floods and supported livelihoods across north Kashmir, Wular has been reduced by siltation, encroachment, and neglect. The lakes decline has consequences far beyond its banks. When a water body of that scale is disturbed, the impact is felt in flood control, fisheries, biodiversity, and local economies. Wular is not just a lake; it is a natural institution. And institutions, when neglected, do not collapse overnight. They decay slowly, and by the time society notices, the damage has already become expensive and difficult to reverse. Dal Lake, the most iconic of Kashmirs wetlands, has perhaps suffered the cruelest fate of all: it has been loved to death. Tourism, which should have been a reason to protect it, often became one of the pressures that threatened its health. Sewage inflow, solid waste, construction pressure, weed growth, and shrinking open water have all transformed its character over time. Dal remains beautiful, yes, but its beauty now carries the sadness of a patient under treatment for too long. We continue to admire the postcard while ignoring the illness. One of the reasons wetlands in Kashmir are under such strain is that we still treat land and water as commodities rather than common ecological assets. A marsh is seen as wasteland, a water channel as an obstacle, a floodplain as vacant space waiting to be filled. This mindset is not just mistaken; it is dangerous. Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on earth. They support livelihoods, agriculture, fisheries, and biodiversity in ways that dry land cannot replicate. To reclaim them for concrete is to replace resilience with vulnerability. The irony is that Kashmir, perhaps more than most places in the country, should know better. Floods in 2014 were not an abstract warning. They were a brutal lesson in the cost of ecological disregard. When rivers overflowed, channels clogged, and natural buffers failed, the valley paid a terrible price. Wetlands, had they been healthier and more respected, could have absorbed far more of that pressure. Nature had already designed the defense. We simply overrode it with negligence. There is also a cultural loss that comes with the decline of wetlands, though it is not always discussed. For generations, these spaces shaped the livelihood, imagination, and seasonal rhythms of Kashmiri life. Fishermen, farmers, birdwatchers, reed cutters, and boatmen all depended on them. Local folklore, seasonal food habits, and community memory are tied to these landscapes. When a wetland dies, a way of life dies with it. The loss is not only scientific or economic; it is civilizational in a small but real sense. The blame, however, cannot rest on government alone. Public indifference is part of the problem. We litter the banks, build where we should not build, dump waste into water bodies, and then blame the authorities when the lake turns foul. Environmental degradation often begins as a collective shrug. It is easy to condemn bureaucratic failure, and certainly much of it deserves condemnation. But wetlands do not collapse in isolation. They decline when a society normalizes small acts of ecological carelessness over years. What is needed now is not another round of ceremonial concern but an uncompromising conservation ethic. Wetlands must be protected as no-go ecological zones, not as future real estate. Encroachments must be removed without fear or favoritism. Sewerage treatment must be expanded and enforced. Illegal dumping must be punished, not merely discouraged. Siltation needs scientific dredging and catchment management. And perhaps most importantly, wetland conservation must be treated as a long-term public policy priority rather than an occasional administrative task. Tourism too must be reimagined. Kashmir cannot afford a model of tourism that feeds on ecological exhaustion. The beauty of wetlands is precisely what attracts visitors, but beauty cannot survive overuse. Responsible, low-impact tourism should be the norm, with strict controls on waste, boating pressure, and construction around sensitive zones. The aim should be to let people witness Kashmirs wetlands without consuming them. There is still time, though not much. The valleys wetlands are wounded, not yet gone. That distinction matters. Wounded ecosystems can recover if the political will exists, if communities demand it, and if institutions act before it becomes too late. Kashmir has the scientific expertise, the public memory of loss, and the ecological importance to mount a serious revival effort. What is missing is urgency. Wetlands are often overlooked because they are quiet. They do not make noise like highways or markets. They do not announce their value with concrete towers or glittering facades. But they sustain life in ways that are far more enduring than the vanity of urban expansion. Kashmirs wetlands are the valleys blue shields soft, silent, and indispensable. If we continue to sacrifice them for short-term convenience, we will discover too late that what looked like empty land was, in fact, the foundation of our ecological future. Protecting wetlands is not an environmental slogan. It is an act of civilizational self-preservation. Kashmir must choose whether it wants to remain a valley of living waters or become a memorial to what was once alive. (The author is a lecturer, columnist and public speaker)

Bureaucracy Must Serve, Not Stall

Red tapism has long been one of the most stubborn obstacles to public welfare and administrative efficiency. It is not merely a matter of delay; it is a culture of avoidance, unnecessary procedure and excessive control that turns simple work into a prolonged ordeal. In a society that expects accountability and service, red tapism becomes a daily reminder of how bureaucracy can weaken public confidence and stall progress. For ordinary citizens, red tapism is not an abstract administrative term. It is the endless queue at an office, the unanswered file, the repeated visit for a single approval and the frustration of being made to wait without explanation. Whether it is a pension, a certificate, a permit or a welfare benefit, people are often forced to move from one desk to another, carrying the same papers and hearing the same excuses. Such experiences do not just waste time; they erode dignity. The problem lies not only in the existence of procedures but in the way they are used. Rules are necessary for orderly governance, but when rules are turned into barriers rather than tools, they cease to serve the public interest. Many officials hide behind procedure to avoid responsibility, while files remain pending due to indecision, fear of accountability or sheer indifference. In such an environment, efficiency becomes the exception rather than the norm. Red tapism also has a deeper social cost. It discourages trust between the people and the system. When citizens begin to believe that nothing moves without influence, pressure or repeated follow-up, the idea of fair governance is badly damaged. A system that frustrates honest citizens while rewarding those with access or connections creates inequality and resentment. Over time, this weakens both institutions and public morale. The solution does not lie in slogans alone. Administrative reform must be serious, measurable and sustained. Processes that are outdated, duplicated or unnecessarily complicated must be simplified. Technology can help reduce delays, but only if it is backed by a genuine will to reform. Digitisation should not become another layer of complication; it should make service faster, clearer and more transparent. At the same time, officials must be made answerable for avoidable delays. Equally important is a change in mindset. Public service is not a favour granted to citizens; it is a duty performed on their behalf. Officials who occupy positions of authority must remember that every delayed file may mean a delayed education, medicine, salary or livelihood for someone waiting at the other end. Efficiency, therefore, is not a luxury. It is a moral obligation. If governance is to regain credibility, red tapism must be treated as a serious administrative failure, not a routine inconvenience. A responsive system is one where decisions are timely, processes are simple, and the citizen is respected. Until that happens, development will continue to move at the pace of paperwork rather than the urgency of public need.

The First Reform Must Be Within

Social evils do not arrive with a single dramatic warning. They creep in quietly, through habits that are ignored, wrongs that are tolerated and values that are slowly abandoned. A society begins to weaken not when it lacks wealth or infrastructure, but when it starts normalizing injustice, discrimination, addiction, violence and corruption. Curbing social evils, therefore, is not a matter of choice but of survival. Every community carries within it the responsibility to guard its moral health. Yet too often, we wait for the state, the police or the courts to deal with issues that begin much earlier in homes, schools, neighbourhoods and public behaviour. Drug abuse, domestic violence, dowry, female foeticide, superstition and communal hatred are not isolated problems. They are symptoms of a larger social failure, one that demands collective introspection. The first step in curbing social evils is acknowledging that no community is immune. Many people condemn wrongdoing in public but excuse it in private when it is committed by relatives, friends or influential figures. This selective morality only strengthens the very practices we claim to oppose. If a society wants to reform itself, it must be willing to apply the same standard of justice to all, regardless of status, caste, gender or power. Education has a decisive role in this struggle. But education must mean more than textbooks and examinations. It must cultivate empathy, critical thinking and civic responsibility. Children should be taught early that dignity is universal, that violence is never a solution, and that prejudice has no place in civilized life. Schools and colleges must become spaces where ethical values are discussed as seriously as academic performance. Families, too, remain the first school of values. When children grow up seeing respect between parents, compassion toward the weak and honesty in daily conduct, they absorb those lessons naturally. But when they witness greed, abuse and silence in the face of wrongdoing, they learn that such behavior is acceptable. Social reform, in that sense, begins at home. Religious leaders, civil society groups, local elders and media outlets also have a crucial role. Their influence can either reinforce harmful customs or challenge them. If they speak courageously against vice and hypocrisy, they can help reshape public conscience. But if they remain silent for fear of controversy or convenience, they become part of the problem. At the same time, the government must ensure strict enforcement of laws meant to protect the vulnerable and punish offenders. Yet laws alone cannot cleanse society. They can deter, but they cannot transform unless public opinion changes as well. A lasting solution lies in combining legal action with social awakening. Curbing social evils requires courage, consistency and a refusal to accept decline as destiny. It means speaking up when silence is easier. It means correcting what is wrong even when it is uncomfortable. Most of all, it means believing that a better society is still possibleone built on justice, dignity and shared responsibility.

The Growing importance of Digital Health Resources in Medical Education

Medical education has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades. The traditional model of learning, which relied heavily on printed textbooks, classroom lectures, and physical libraries, has gradually evolved into a more dynamic and technology-driven system. Today, digital health resources have become an indispensable part of medical education, enabling students, educators, researchers, and healthcare professionals to access reliable information instantly and make evidence-based decisions. The rapid advancement of information technology has reshaped the way medical knowledge is created, shared, and utilized. Medical science is one of the fastest-evolving fields, with new research findings, clinical guidelines, and treatment recommendations emerging almost every day. In such a rapidly changing environment, relying solely on printed materials may not always provide the most up-to-date information. Digital resources help bridge this gap by providing timely access to the latest evidence and recommendations. One of the most significant advantages of digital health resources is accessibility. Medical students and faculty members can now access journals, e-books, clinical databases, multimedia learning modules, and educational videos from their computers, tablets, or smartphones. This convenience allows learning to continue beyond the classroom and library, making education more flexible and learner-centered. Whether preparing for examinations, conducting research, or seeking clarification on a clinical topic, digital platforms offer immediate access to a wealth of information. Another important benefit is the availability of evidence-based clinical decision support tools. Modern digital platforms provide updated clinical guidelines, drug information, disease management protocols, and diagnostic recommendations. These resources assist medical students in understanding current best practices and help clinicians make informed decisions while caring for patients. Learning to use evidence-based resources during medical training also prepares future healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality patient care throughout their careers. Digital health resources have also strengthened the culture of self-directed learning. Modern medical education encourages students to develop the habit of independent learning rather than depending entirely on classroom teaching. Online resources allow learners to explore topics in greater depth, compare different viewpoints, and stay informed about recent scientific developments. This approach nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and lifelong learningqualities that are essential for every healthcare professional. The role of digital libraries has expanded considerably in recent years. Medical college libraries are no longer merely repositories of printed books and journals. They have evolved into knowledge and information centers that provide access to thousands of electronic journals, e-books, institutional repositories, and research databases. Librarians, too, have embraced new responsibilities by guiding users in literature searching, reference management, research ethics, plagiarism awareness, and effective utilization of electronic resources. Their expertise plays an important role in helping users identify authentic and reliable sources of information. Digital resources have significantly enhanced medical research as well. Researchers can conduct comprehensive literature reviews using international databases, identify gaps in existing knowledge, and access high-quality scientific publications with greater efficiency. Citation management software, online collaboration platforms, and digital repositories have simplified many aspects of the research process. These developments have improved productivity while encouraging greater collaboration among institutions and researchers across different regions. The integration of multimedia content has further enriched medical education. Interactive anatomy models, three-dimensional simulations, virtual microscopy, recorded lectures, clinical demonstrations, and educational animations help students understand complex concepts more effectively than text alone. Such resources cater to different learning styles and improve knowledge retention by combining visual, auditory, and interactive learning methods. The emergence of artificial intelligence has added another dimension to digital medical education. AI-powered tools can assist learners in organizing information, summarizing scientific literature, generating practice questions, and identifying relevant research papers. While these technologies offer tremendous potential, they should be used responsibly. Medical students must continue to verify information using authoritative and peer-reviewed sources while maintaining academic integrity and ethical standards. Despite these advantages, digital health resources should complement rather than replace traditional learning methods. Printed textbooks continue to provide structured foundational knowledge, classroom discussions encourage critical thinking, and bedside clinical training remains irreplaceable in developing practical skills, communication, and professional judgment. The ideal educational model combines the strengths of both traditional and digital learning approaches to create a balanced and comprehensive learning experience. The increasing availability of open educational resources has also contributed to greater equity in medical education. Many reputable organizations now provide free educational materials, clinical guidelines, research articles, and training modules. These resources support students and professionals who may have limited access to expensive textbooks or subscription-based databases. However, institutions should continue investing in quality digital subscriptions so that learners can benefit from comprehensive and authoritative medical literature. Digital literacy has become an essential competency for future healthcare professionals. Access to information alone is insufficient; learners must also be able to critically evaluate the credibility, accuracy, and relevance of digital content. Understanding research methodology, recognising trustworthy sources, and distinguishing scientific evidence from misinformation are vital skills in todays information-rich environment. Medical institutions should therefore incorporate digital literacy and information literacy training into their academic programs. Faculty members also play a crucial role in maximising the benefits of digital health resources. By integrating electronic resources into classroom teaching, encouraging evidence-based assignments, and demonstrating effective literature-searching techniques, educators can help students develop sound academic habits. Institutional support through workshops, training programs, and awareness initiatives further strengthens the effective use of these resources. Looking ahead, digital health resources will continue to shape the future of medical education. Emerging technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, advanced simulation laboratories, and intelligent educational platforms are expected to further enhance learning experiences. As healthcare becomes increasingly data-driven, familiarity with digital tools will be essential not only for education but also for clinical practice, research, and healthcare management. The digital health resources have become an integral component of modern medical education. They provide timely access to evidence-based information, support independent learning, strengthen research capabilities, and promote continuous professional development. When combined with skilled educators, strong library services, and practical clinical training, these resources empower future healthcare professionals to meet the evolving challenges of medicine with confidence and competence. Investing in digital knowledge infrastructure today is, ultimately, an investment in better education, better research, and better patient care tomorrow. (The author is a Library Futurist and a writer/Author from Kulgam. Email: waniishfaq0001@gmail.com )

Omar Reviews Flood Relief In Poonch, Announces 5-Marla Plots For Families Rendered Landless

Chief Minister reviews relief operations, meets bereaved families and directs speedy rehabilitation after flash floods

Meet the 100-year-old Congress worker who never switched sides

For nearly seven decades, Abdul Rahman Magray (100) of Satruna village in Ganderbal's Kangan has remained steadfast in his loyalty to the Congress despite repeated offers to switch parties. Having lived through Partition, the political transformation of Jammu and Kashmir and the years of militancy, Magray reflects on a lifetime in public life, his meetings with some of India's tallest leaders, and why he believes the party must reconnect with its grassroots workers. In his first on-camera interview, he speaks to Rising Kashmir's Umar Raina. Q: You have witnessed nearly a century of history. What do you remember about those early days? Magray: I have seen life before and after Partition. There were no proper roads, poverty was widespread, and even food and clothing were scarce. As students, four of us pooled our money just to buy something to eat. Those hardships shaped our generation. Q: What made you join Congress, and why have you never left? Magray: Congress was the party that fought for India's freedom. I grew up hearing about Mahatma Gandhi and the sacrifices of freedom fighters. My father even went to jail during that period. For me, Congress represents sacrifice and service, not just politics. Many leaders from other parties asked me to join them, including Mufti Mohammad Sayeed when he floated his own party. I told him, How can I leave my own home for another? I have always believed loyalty matters more than political convenience. Q: You have met several national leaders. Which memories stand out? Magray: I met Jawaharlal Nehru, Gulzarilal Nanda, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. What I remember most is how the senior leadership respected even ordinary party workers. That culture of valuing grassroots workers made a lasting impression on me. Q: What has been your biggest sacrifice for the party? Magray: I travelled across the country as a Congress delegate, often spending my own money. During militancy, my house was burnt and later damaged in a blast. There were attempts on my life because of my political affiliation, but I never abandoned the party. Respect from the organisation was enough for me. Q: You also contested elections despite difficult circumstances. Why? Magray: I contested the Assembly elections in 1972 and again in 2002. In 1972, I knew Mian Bashir Ahmad was the strongest candidate, but democracy needs genuine contests. In 2002, militancy was at its peak, yet I contested to keep the Congress organisation alive during a very difficult period. Q: Beyond politics, what work are you most proud of? Magray: I always considered myself a social worker first. During Ghulam Mohammad Sadiq's tenure, I helped prepare proposals that led to the opening of several schools in our area. I also worked to ensure local people got jobs in hydropower projects and that local contractors received work. Q: How do you see Congress today, and what message would you give the leadership? Magray: The party has changed. Earlier, leaders knew every worker personally and respected their sacrifices. Today, factionalism has weakened the organisation. I have told Rahul Gandhi that Congress must reconnect with genuine grassroots workers and end internal divisions. Q: At 100, what keeps you going? Magray: My commitment to the party. People tell me to retire, but I say I will remain with Congress till my last breath. If my health allows, I will continue attending party meetings. My only wish is that Congress values workers who stood by it during difficult times.

People Of Jammu Kashmir Have Rejected August 5 Decisions, Says Farooq Abdullah

NC president says party will continue democratic struggle for restoration of constitutional rights and statehood

Jammu Kashmir: Govt Constitutes Committees for Implementation of Disability Fund

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has constituted a Union Territory-level Governing Body/Approval Committee and district-level committees for implementing the guidelines of the Union Territory Disability Fund across JK. The decision was notified through Government Order No. 1333-JK(GAD) of 2026, issued by the General Administration Department on August 4, 2026, by order of the Lieutenant []

Jammu Kashmir Gets Rs 11.10 Crore For PACS Digitisation In Five Years, Govt Says

Parliamentary data shows Jammu and Kashmir received Rs 2.20 crore in 2026-27 as Centre pushes digitisation of rural credit societies

Centre Approves Six Grain Storage Projects For Jammu Kashmir, Releases Subsidy For Only One

Parliament data shows six projects approved in J&K, but advance subsidy released for only one project under the Agriculture Marketing Infrastructure component

Private Trust Managers Has No Right To Oppose Wakaf Takeover, Jammu Kashmir HC Rules

SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has ruled that a private trust managing a religious shrine without lawful authority or a legally recognisable claim cannot challenge its takeover by statutory Wakaf authorities. Dismissing petitions filed by Sain Miran Baba Darvesh Ghulam Qadir Trust, Justice Sanjay Parihar held that the Ziarat of []

Govt Directs All Jammu Kashmir Officials To Attend Independence Day Functions

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has directed all officers and officials stationed in Srinagar and Jammu to attend the main Independence Day celebrations on August 15, declaring participation in the official functions as part of their official duty. In a circular issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) on Wednesday, the government said the []

Senior IAS Officer Earlier Posted in Jammu Kashmir Appointed in New Delhi

SRINAGAR: Senior IAS officer Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, who has held several key administrative positions in Jammu and Kashmir, has been appointed Chairperson of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), according to an order issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on August 5. Dwivedi, a 1997-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, will assume []

J-K, Ladakh witnessed wide-ranging transformation since Article 370 abrogation: PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the lives of people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have witnessed wide-ranging transformation, with expansion of infrastructure and growth in opportunities in education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and sports sectors. On the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article []

ASI Dies of Electrocution in Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police died after suffering an electric shock in Jammu on Wednesday, officials said. The deceased has been identified as Satbir Singh, son of Shamsair Singh, a resident of Chhatti Singhpora in Mattan area of south Kashmirs Anantnag district. He was posted in Jammu at the []

Sajad Lone Terms August 5 Historic Betrayal, Seeks Restoration of Jammu Kashmirs Rights

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (PC) president and Handwara MLA Sajad Gani Lone on Wednesday described the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A on August 5, 2019, as a historic betrayal and reiterated his demand for the restoration of the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Marking seven years since the constitutional []

Crime Branch Files Chargesheet in Rs 12.97 Lakh RTO Jammu Revenue Fraud Case

Investigation alleges under-reporting of vehicle tax collections, use of fake driving institute certificates and forged documents to obtain PSV licence endorsements

Jammu Kashmir Gets Rs 59.23 Crore Tribal Development Push Under PM-JUGA, DAJGUA

SRINAGAR: The Union Government has approved projects worth Rs 59.23 crore for Jammu and Kashmir under the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM-JUGA) and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA), covering education, tribal infrastructure and basic services across the Union Territory, Parliament was informed on Wednesday. Replying to an unstarred question in the []