Kashmirs Mughal Gardens Get Landmark Scholarly Study, Renewing Push for Heritage Conservation
by Lilac Ali SRINAGAR: Kashmirs historic Mughal gardens have received what experts describe as the first comprehensive scholarly treatment devoted exclusively to their landscape heritage. Kashmir conservationists and historians hope that the work will serve as a blueprint for preserving some of the Valleys most significant cultural assets. The optimism emerged at a pre-launch event []
Indian Woman Says Kashmir Is As Good As Switzerland But Lags in Cleanliness
SRINAGAR: An Indian woman who recently returned from a 12-day trip to Switzerland has sparked discussion on social media after saying that India, particularly Jammu and Kashmir, possesses natural beauty comparable to the European nation but falls short when it comes to cleanliness. In a video posted on Instagram, Binny Sharma said her visit reinforced []
J&K Police Named Among Best Performers in Passport Seva for 2025-26
New Delhi: J&K Police has been adjudged one of the Best Performers in Passport Seva for 2025-26, securing its second consecutive recognition in the category. The force received the Institutional Performance Award for State Police during the Passport Seva Divas celebrations and Regional Passport Officers Conference held from June 17-19 at Sushma Swaraj Bhavan, New []
LAB, KDA Call for Ladakh Bandh on June 23, Accuse Centre of Delaying Key Issues
SRINAGAR: The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) on Saturday called for a complete Ladakh Bandh on June 23, accusing the Centre of delaying decisions on crucial political and constitutional demands and warning that the people of the Union Territory would no longer remain silent in the face of what they []
EOW Kashmir Files Chargesheet in Telecom Project Fraud Case
SRINAGAR: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of the Crime Branch, Jammu and Kashmir, has filed a chargesheet before the Chief Judicial Magistrates Court in Sopore against a man accused of cheating a complainant on the pretext of providing a telecom project linked to a United States-based company. According to officials, the chargesheet has been []
EOW Kashmir presents Chargesheet in Telecom Project Fraud Case
The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir, of Crime Branch J&K has produced a chargesheet in FIR No. 44/2023 under Section 420 IPC before the Honble Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Sopore, against Harkeet Singh S/o Guru Mohan Singh R/o Kali Mata Mandir, Lal Bangla, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. The case pertains to a written complaint alleging that the accused had induced the complainant to part with money on the pretext of providing an AT&T inbound sales call project of a US-based telecom company. During the course of investigation, it was established that the accused had dishonestly deceived the complainant and fraudulently obtained money under false assurances. On the basis of evidence collected during investigation, the allegations were found proved and the chargesheet was accordingly filed before the competent court for judicial determination. The general public is advised to remain vigilant against economic fraud and report any such incidents to the Senior Superintendent of Police, Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir, Crime Branch J&K. Victims of economic fraud may also submit their complaints through the official email address: sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in
Doctor Suspended as Probe Into GMC Anantnag Continues
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has suspended an Associate Professor of Cardiology at Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag, pending an inquiry into alleged irregularities in the institutions Cardiology Department, Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo said on Friday. Speaking to reporters, the Minister confirmed that an inquiry had already been initiated by the []
Jammu Kashmir Govt Appoints 25 Liaison Officers Ahead of Parliamentary Panel Visit
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has appointed 25 senior officers as Liaison Officers to facilitate the proposed study visit of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas scheduled to take place in the Union Territory from June 25 to June 29, 2026. According to Government Order No. 1106-JK(GAD) of 2026 dated June []
Srinagar, June 20 : Cardiologist Dr Syed Maqbool has strongly rejected allegations levelled against him in a departmental memorandum, terming the accusations fabricated and asserting that the matter remains under inquiry with no findings having been established so far. Dr Maqbool, while speaking to the news agency Kashmir News Trust, said the contents circulating in sections of the media were being portrayed out of context and did not reflect the complete picture of the case. What is being circulated in the media is totally different from the actual report. People are treating a memorandum of allegations as a final verdict, which is not correct, he said. Dr Maqbool maintained that Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag has already submitted a detailed response to the queries raised by the authorities and that the inquiry committee is presently examining the material placed before it. We have replied to every allegation with documentary evidence. The matter is under consideration and we have full faith in the system. Justice will ultimately prevail, he said. Appealing against what he described as premature conclusions, the cardiologist urged people to allow the inquiry process to run its course. Let us not jump to conclusions and make a mountain out of a molehill. An inquiry is meant to establish facts, not to pronounce guilt before the process is complete, he said. Meanwhile, noted medico and Health Activist Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan also cautioned against treating allegations as proof of wrongdoing. An inquiry is meant to establish facts, not deliver a verdict. Unfortunately, allegations often lead to instant public judgment, with reputations being damaged long before any investigation is completed. Due process exists to ensure fairness, and no individual should be declared guilty until the truth is established through a proper inquiry, he said. Dr Momin described Dr Maqbool as one of the Valleys prominent cardiologists and said that over the years he had treated thousands of patients, including many from economically weaker sections. If any wrongdoing is ultimately established, accountability must follow. But until then, fairness demands restraint and respect for due process, he added. Notably, the controversy stems from a departmental memorandum against Dr. Syed Maqbool, a cardiologist at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag. The memorandum accuses him of misrepresenting cardiac procedures under the PMJAY-SEHAT scheme, generating wrongful claims, bypassing official procurement channels and subjecting several patients to procedures that an expert audit later found lacked medical justification. The department has recommended major disciplinary action, including termination from service. Dr. Maqbool, however, has rejected the allegations and says the inquiry process is still underway.[KNT]
Fragile peace in Lebanon shattered as fresh IDF strikes kills five: Lebanese media
Beirut, June 20 : Fresh Israeli strikes in South Lebanon have resulted in the death of five people, including a Lebanese Army soldier and two minors-- the country's National News Agency (NNA) reported on Saturday. According to the NNA, a Lebanese Army soldier was killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting the Kfarremane roundabout. As per the NNA, strikes also took place at the centre of Sohmur, resulting in injuries, while another airstrike targeted Shibl in Qatrani, in the Jezzine area. In the strikes on the town of Barish, four family members were killed-- including a father, mother and two children. It also reported of a drone flying at low altitude over Beirut's suburbs and further noted that the Hima Labaya area was hit by three airstrikes. According to the NNA, the recent strikes come after Israeli aggression was reported on the towns of Kfarreman, Habboush, Nabatieh al-Fawqa, Choukine, Zebdine, and Kfarjouz, while the city of Nabatieh was also subjected to a series of intense raids. As per the NNA, Civil Defence teams and paramedics from the Islamic Risala Scout Association and the Islamic Health Society continue search and rescue operations as several people remain trapped beneath the debris. As per the Israeli news outlet, Jerusalem Post, there was no comment from the Israeli Defence Forces on the latest round of strikes in Lebanon. As peace hangs by a precipice amid the recently inked MoU between Iran and the US, strikes on Lebanon may further complicate the process. The 14-point MoU between the US and Iran includes an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations, including in Lebanon, and a pledge to conclude negotiations on a final deal within 60 days, extendable by mutual consent. Meanwhile, on Friday, in a highly inflammatory post on X, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Minister of National Security of Israel, called for the intensification of military actions in Lebanon--remarks which have drawn widespread condemnation. For every tear of an Israeli mother, a thousand Lebanese mothers must weep. All of Lebanon must burn! he wrote on X. The National Security Minister further said, With all due respect to the Americans, Israel must make it clear to the entire world that the blood of our sons and the security of our citizens are not forfeit. All of Lebanon must burn. He said that Israel's supreme duty is to protect its citizens and the soldiers of the IDF, and this commitment takes precedence over every other consideration. He further said, Enough with the ping-pong. In the Middle East, you don't win with measured responses and restraint--you need to go berserk. To obliterate. To crush the terror. (ANI)
India to host BRICS National Security Advisers' Meet from June 22-23: MEA
During the meeting, the National Security Advisers will exchange views on the theme Non-traditional security challenges confronting the world today
GMC Anantnag Cardiologist Denies Allegations, Seeks Fair Probe
SRINAGAR: Cardiologist Dr Syed Maqbool has rejected allegations levelled against him in connection with the PMJAY-SEHAT controversy, asserting that the matter remains under inquiry and that no conclusions have been reached by the authorities. Dr Maqbool said the allegations contained in a departmental memorandum were being misrepresented in sections of the media and should not []
Kashmir drew scholars from across Asia, shared knowledge with Arab world: LG Sinha
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said Kashmir was once among Asias foremost centres of learning, attracting scholars from Afghanistan, Central Asia and other regions, while Sanskrit texts preserved and studied in the Valley were translated into Arabic and carried Indias intellectual traditions far beyond its borders. Addressing the inaugural session of the Nalanda []
J-K: Inquiry finds patients with normal hearts underwent cardiac surgery; doctor under lens
SRINAGAR: Nearly 50 per cent of evaluated patients who underwent advanced cardiac surgical procedures did not even require them, a departmental inquiry into alleged large-scale procedural irregularities at the Anantnag Government Medical College has revealed. The Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education Department further revealed fraudulent insurance claims, patient exploitation and unnecessary procedures on []
NEET-UG 2026 Re-Exam: Restrictions Imposed in Baramulla for Smooth Conduct
Baramulla, June 20 : In a bid to ensure the fair and transparent conduct of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026 re-examination, the District Magistrate of Baramulla, Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, IAS, has imposed stringent restrictions under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)-2023. The order, issued on June 15, comes into effect from 10:00 AM on June 21, 2026, until the conclusion of the examination at all 11 designated centers across the district. The re-exam is scheduled to be held from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, with an additional hour for PwD/PvBD candidates. As per the directive accessed news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) a 200-meter perimeter around all examination centers will be a restricted zone. Unauthorized individuals are strictly barred from entering this radius. Candidates will be allowed entry only after thorough identity verification and production of their hall tickets, while examination staff must present valid photo ID and undergo biometric verification where applicable. To maintain the sanctity of the exam, the use of mobile phones, electronic devices, calculators, books, or any other unauthorized material is completely prohibited inside the examination halls. Candidates are also not permitted to leave the hall before the scheduled time without prior authorization. Additionally, to prevent any untoward incidents, the gathering of more than five persons within the 200-meter radius is prohibited, and the use of public address systems or loudspeakers will be disallowed between 12:00 Noon and 6:00 PM. The order, however, exempts law enforcement agencies, magistrates, and personnel directly associated with the examination. Any violation of these directives will invite punitive action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)-2023. The District Magistrate has forwarded copies of the order to senior police officials, the National Testing Agency (NTA), and all concerned magistrates for necessary compliance and information. (KNS)
HME Orders Probe Into GMC Anantnag Cardiologist Over Alleged PMJAY Fraud, Pacemaker Scam
SRINAGAR: The Health and Medical Education (HME) Department has initiated major departmental proceedings against a cardiologist posted at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag over allegations of fraudulent PMJAY-SEHAT claims, manipulation of medical records, unauthorised cardiac procedures, patient exploitation and violations of procurement norms, official documents reveal. The departmental action against Dr Syed Maqbool, a cardiologist []
NEET-UG re-exam: Security tightened, administrative prep intensified across country
New Delhi , June 20 : Ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, scheduled to take place across the country on Sunday, administrative and security preparations have been intensified nationwide to ensure the smooth and fair conduct of the high-stakes medical entrance examination. In the national capital, inspection rounds are underway to finalise arrangements at various centres. An observer visiting the Government Boys Senior Secondary (GBSS) school in Ashok Vihar, Delhi, expressed satisfaction with the readiness of the facilities. Everything has been checked and found fit for the exam. Five schools have been designated as centres here. This is the first centre, and we now have to visit the others, the observer told ANI. Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh, District Magistrate of Prayagraj, Manish Kumar Verma, detailed the extensive arrangements made for the district. Speaking on the security arrangements, Verma told ANI, The NEET exam is scheduled to be held at 47 centers in Prayagraj district, and approximately 23,000 students will participate. Considering the sensitivity of this exam, we have made adequate preparations. Static and sector personnel have been deployed at each center, under whose supervision the entire exam will be conducted. Adequate police and paramilitary forces have also been deployed to assist them. Personnel will be present from the time the question paper reaches the center to the time it is collected and returned. The DM further emphasised the logistical support provided to students, particularly regarding transportation and the prevailing weather conditions. To ensure there is no inconvenience at the railway and bus stations, appropriate instructions have been issued after meetings with railway and roadways officials. The reduced fare rates announced by the state government for students are being strictly followed. Everyone has been sensitised to ensure that students do not face any inconvenience while returning. An ARTO team has been deployed to ensure there are no transportation problems within the city. Considering the heat, medical teams and ambulances have also been deployed... we are fully prepared, he added. The Ajmer district administration has completed all security arrangements for the NEET-UG re-examination, with around 300 police personnel set to be deployed across examination centres to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the exam. Speaking on the security preparations, Ajmer Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Himanshu Jangid said that extensive measures have been put in place across the district's examination centres. According to the ASP, police personnel have been instructed to remain alert and enforce examination guidelines strictly. Armed guards will accompany the transportation of question papers and answer sheets, while strong rooms at all examination centres will remain under police supervision. The NTA has advised candidates to reach their examination centres between 11 am and 1:30 pm, noting that entry gates will close at 1:30 pm. The examination will be conducted in pen-and-paper mode from 2 pm to 5:15 pm across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad. More than 22.79 lakh candidates are expected to appear for the test on June 21. (ANI)
Modi tough cookie, great leader who has been in power for over 12 years: Trump
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump lavished praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying he is a great leader and tough guy, who has been in power for more than 12 years. In an interview with Axios, Trump referred to Chinas President Xi Jinping and Modi as the two greatest leaders he likes the most in []
Around 9,000 pilgrims depart from Nagrota for Annual Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela amid tight security
Nagrota , June 20 : Around 9,000 pilgrims on Saturday departed in nearly 200 buses from Nagrota in Jammu for the annual Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela and other yatras to Tikker in Kupwara, Logripora in Anantnag, Devsar and Manzgam in Kulgam districts. The administration has put in place elaborate security and logistical arrangements to ensure the smooth and hassle-free transit of devotees to their respective destinations. Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner Arvind Karwani said that multiple agencies, including the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Army, were working in coordination to ensure the safety of pilgrims throughout the journey. We tried to make security arrangements better than the previous year. The Yatra is leaving today, and until the pilgrims reach their destinations safely, everyone, including the CAPF, the J&K Police, and the Army, is working together to ensure this is a great arrangement, deploying every standard gadget and all the required forces, Karwani told ANI. Meanwhile, BJP MLA Devyani Rana flagged off devotees from the old toll post in Nagrota, located at the foothills of the Kol Kandoli Mata Temple, and extended her best wishes to the pilgrims. We are sending people off for darshan from the Old toll post in Nagrota, which is at the foot of the Kol Kandoli Mata Temple. I hope that all the devotees leaving from here have a successful and pleasant journey, Rana told ANI. She further highlighted the arrangements made for devotees through a community service initiative. It is fortunate that today, through the 'Jeeyo Geeta Sansthanam', with the blessings of our revered Gyan Ji Maharaj, a grand langar is being organised here. Through this, food and drink arrangements have been made for all the devotees leaving today. I hope that our devotees will begin their journey this morning with an open mind and open heart, she said. The Mata Kheer Bhawani annual mela takes place at the famous Ragnya Devi temple in the village Tulmulla, 25 kilometres off Srinagar. 'Kheer', a milk and rice pudding, is offered to propitiate the goddess. Kheer Bhawani is sometimes translated as 'Milk Goddess'. The worship of Kheer Bhawani is universal among the Hindus of Kashmir; most of them worship her as their protective patron deity, Kuladevi. (ANI)
A debut novel frames Kashmirs trauma and displacement through intimate human stories, recovering a cultures lost melody in three chapters of winter, writes Mehreen Firdous RJ Umair Ahmad Khans choice of title for his debut novel is itself an act of quiet precision. The Valley of Unfinished Songs names Kashmir not as a political geography []
Classics: Trump names PM Modi as one of two greatest leaders he likes on world stage
Washington DC , June 20 : Describing them as classics, US President Donald Trump has named Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping among the world leaders he most admires, praising their leadership styles, political strength, and global influence. During an interview on The Axios Show on Friday, when asked to name the two leaders he most admires internationally, the US President responded by pointing to Xi Jinping and PM Modi. Yeah, I think in terms of leadership, I think that's true, Trump said when prompted about Xi. When asked for the second name, he added, Well, I think Modi is very good. He stays out of wars, which is smart. He's 1.5 billion people. He's actually the biggest. India is actually the biggest. And Modi's a great leader, and we do a lot of business with them, but now we do fair business, Trump said. Modi's great. President Xi is great. Classics, you know? I mean, if you were going to make a movie about either one of them, you wouldn't be able to find the man in Hollywood, I'm telling you, he added. Trump praised PM Modi's long tenure in office, completing 12 years and counting and political stability, saying the Indian Prime Minister had remained in power for over a decade despite a turbulent political landscape. He also credited PM Modi's governance style, describing him as someone who maintains calmness while being a very tough guy, adding that he has known him personally for years. All my life I've watched India; they just kept changing, changing, changing. Somebody would be there for six months and then for a year. And then all of a sudden, Prime Minister Modi ends up there. He's been there for more than 12 years. Very solid. And he does it through like this great calmness, Trump said. And yet he's not a calm person. He's a very tough guy; I know him very well, the US President added. On India-US economic ties, Trump said trade relations had improved under his leadership, claiming the US now conducts fair business with India. The US president also spoke in broad terms about global leadership styles, contrasting different leaders' temperaments while reiterating his view that both Xi and PM Modi stand out for their influence and authority on the world stage. (ANI)
Over 9,000 pilgrims leave from Jammu for Kheer Bhawani Mela
Over 9,000 pilgrims, predominantly Kashmiri Pandits, embarked on a journey from Jammu to the revered Kheer Bhawani temple on Saturday. This year's significantly higher participation signals a robust turnout for the Kheer Bhawani Mela, a pivotal religious event. Elaborate security and logistical arrangements are in place for the devotees' spiritual journey, underscoring the enduring connection to their cultural heritage.
'Operation Sheruwali' enters Day 29 in Rajouri forests, search and cordon operation continues
Rajouri , June 20 : Operation Sheruwali entered its 29th consecutive day on Saturday in the dense forests of the Gambir Mughlan area in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district. Security forces have intensified cordon and search operations across the challenging terrain, which is characterised by steep slopes and dense vegetation. Despite the difficult conditions, troops remain on high alert, employing surveillance and area domination tactics to monitor and track suspected movements. The prolonged operation underscores the ongoing efforts of security forces to ensure peace and stability in the border district. Operation Sheruwali is a large-scale multi-agency counter-terrorism mission launched in late May to locate and neutralise armed infiltrators believed to be hiding in the rugged mountainous terrain of the Dorimal-Gambhir Mughlan sector. Earlier, a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) and three Army personnel were injured in an accidental mine blast during a patrol near the Line of Control (LoC) in the forward Kalal area of the Nowshera sector on June 16, according to Jammu and Kashmir Police officials. According to the Station House Officer (SHO) of Nowshera Police Station, the incident took place at around 11 am when troops of 4 Kumaon were conducting a routine patrol in the forward LoC area. During the operation, an accidental mine blast occurred, injuring one JCO and three soldiers. The injured personnel were immediately evacuated from the site and provided initial medical assistance before being shifted to the Army's Command Hospital in Udhampur for specialised treatment. Officials said the Kalal sector is a sensitive stretch along the LoC where troops regularly conduct patrols to maintain operational vigilance and prevent infiltration attempts. The condition of the injured personnel is being closely monitored, while authorities continue to assess the circumstances surrounding the blast. (ANI)
PM Modi disburses 2,400 cr under Rozgar Yojana
In J&K, 74 lakh to 1,522 employees, 25 cr to 304 employers Embodies Viksit Bharat resolve: LG Manoj Sinha Srinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday disbursed incentives amounting to Rs 2,400 crore to more than 15 lakh beneficiaries across the country, under Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana. As part of a nationwide outreach []
Separate Jammu state BJPs pipe dream: Minister
Satish Sharma says J&K needs statehood, not division Kupwara: Minister Satish Sharma on Friday said the demand for a separate state for Jammu does not reflect the aspirations of the people and is confined to a handful of individuals, mostly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Speaking to reporters here, Sharma said the people of []
Govt will protect farmers land rights: Itoo
Says 50 years of cultivation cant be erased Pulwama: Minister Sakeena Itoo on Friday said the government is committed to safeguarding the interests of farmers, assuring that cultivators who have been working on agricultural land for decades would not be deprived of their legitimate rights. The minister made these remarks while addressing a public grievance []
NEET Re-Exam: Govt suspends classwork in 60 hr sec schools today
Coaching centres in Kashmir to remain closed Sunday: DSEK Srinagar: School Education Department (SED) on Friday ordered suspension of classwork on Saturday in 60 higher secondaries designated as NEET examination centres in Kashmir division. Director of School Education (DSEK) in an order said, In view of upcoming NEET examination scheduled on 21-06-2026 (Sunday), the classwork []
Lt Gen Pratik Sharma calls on LG Sinha
Srinagar: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Northern Command called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday. He was accompanied by Lt Gen Balbir Singh, GOC Chinar Corps; Lt Gen Rajan Sharawat, GOC 9 Corps and Lt Gen P. K. Mishra, GOC 16 Corps.
CS reviews 1,431 cr disaster recovery push post-2025 floods
Directs depts to expedite execution of works, ensure timely utilization of funds Srinagar: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo on Friday chaired a meeting of all the concerned to assess the progress achieved in identification, approval and execution of infrastructure restoration and reconstruction projects being undertaken under the Disaster Component of the Special Assistance to States for []
EOW books five accused, searches house in Budgam
Baramulla Migrant Land Fraud Case Srinagar, Jun 18: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K conducted a house search at Banit Beerwah, District Budgam, in connection with an FIR registered under relevant sections of law at Police Station EOW Kashmir, pertaining to an alleged land fraud and cheating involving migrant land measuring []
Wet spell likely till Jun 26: MeT
Srinagar: Several parts of Jammu and Kashmir witnessed rain and thunderstorms on Friday afternoon as the Meteorological Department forecast more wet weather over the next few days and warned of possible flash floods, mudslides and hailstorms in vulnerable areas. According to the MeT Centre Srinagar, a spell of rain and thundershowers affected many places across []
Police attach house acquired through drug trade
Shopian: As part of its continued crackdown on narcotics-related activities, police in Shopian have attached a residential house valued at 28,91,526 belonging to Bashir Ahmad Sofi, son of Gh Hassan Sofi, a resident of Bonbazar Shopian. The property was identified as having been acquired through proceeds generated from the illegal trade of drugs and narcotics []
SKUAST-K scholar bags grant for endangered Kashmir Fish Research
Srinagar, Jun 19: In a significant achievement for Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Misba Rehman, a PhD scholar in the Faculty of Fisheries, has secured an international research grant of US$6,500 from the US-based Wild Animal Initiative. The grant will support the project, Assessing Behavioural and Physiological Welfare Indicators for the Kashmir Loach (Triplophysa kashmirensis), led by Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq as Principal Investigator, with Misba Rehman as lead applicant. The study focuses on generating scientific evidence on the welfare indicators of the critically endangered Kashmir Loach, an endemic fish species of Kashmir, to support science-based conservation and management strategies. Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai congratulated Misba Rehman and Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq, stating that the achievement reflects the growing global recognition of research at SKUAST-K and strengthens the universitys commitment to impactful research and biodiversity conservation. Dean, Faculty of Fisheries, Prof. Farooz Ahmad Bhat, described the grant as a major accomplishment, noting that the project addresses an important yet understudied area of fish welfare and conservation. Head Division of Fisheries Resource Management, Dr Tasaduq Hussain Shah, said that the international funding reflects the scientific merit and growing relevance of the research being undertaken by the Division. Expressing gratitude, Misba Rehman acknowledged the support of the university and her supervisor, stating that the grant will enable innovative research to better understand the conservation and welfare needs of the Kashmir Loach.
Dir Skill Dev reviews functioning of ITI, GPC Bpora
Bandipora, Jun 19: Director, Skill Development Department, Dr. Owais Ahmad on Friday visited Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Bandipora and Government Polytechnic College (GPC) Bandipora to review their functioning and assess the quality of skill development and technical education being imparted to students. During the visit, Dr. Owais inspected the available infrastructure, training facilities, machinery and equipment in both institutions. He also interacted with faculty members and students to gain firsthand feedback regarding the academic and training environment. The Director reviewed the employability prospects of students passing out from these institutions and discussed measures to enhance their employment opportunities. He stressed the importance of industry-oriented training programmes and underscored the need to align skill development initiatives with emerging market demands. Highlighting the rapid technological changes taking place globally, Dr. Owais emphasized the inclusion of new-age courses such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Electric Vehicle (EV) technologies in the curriculum. He said efforts are underway to revamp and modernize skill development institutions under the upcoming Mission Skill initiative to ensure that students are equipped with contemporary skills and industry-relevant knowledge. Dr Owais Ahmad also reviewed the availability of infrastructure and equipment required for effective practical training and directed the concerned authorities to identify gaps and work towards strengthening institutional capacities. Dr. Owais stated that the department is committed to upgrading skill development institutions across the region to make them more responsive to the needs of industry and youth aspirations.
Mass de-empanelment from PM-JAY/SEHAT to proceed on July 1: JKPHDA
Srinagar, Jun 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Private Empanelled Hospitals and Dialysis Centres Association (JKPHDA) on Friday reiterated that its decision for mass de-empanelment from the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY / SEHAT Scheme will proceed from 1st July 2026, citing lack of concrete action from the administration despite repeated assurances. Since our press statement announcing mass de-empanelment from the scheme, we have received only verbal assurances from the Government. There have been no concrete steps to streamline the scheme or resolve long-pending issues, the Association said. It stated, We remain committed to Hon'ble Prime Minister's Ayushman Bharat scheme. However, it is unfortunate that since March 2024 the scheme is in its most non-performing state. We are forced to continue with our mass de-empanelment as no concrete steps are being taken to streamline claim processing, package rates, and authorizations. Every year we have to fight to get our genuine dues released. Each time we receive only assurances but no systemic fix. Hospitals are running on financial stress while providing cashless treatment to patients, JKPHDA added. The Association highlighted that dues worth several hundred crores are pending with the State Health Agency (SHA), causing severe working capital issues for small and mid-sized hospitals. This directly impacts their ability to purchase medicines, consumables, and maintain staff. In the proposed mass de empanelment of Hospitals, Maintenance Haemodialysis patients will be the worst hit. Dialysis is life-saving and is needed 3 times a week, thousands of poor patients under SEHAT will lose cashless access and be forced to pay Rs 8,00010,000 per month from their own pockets. JKPHDA maintains that it supports the vision of Ayushman Bharat but requests immediate steps on pending payments, rationalization of package rates, and faster pre-authorization to make the scheme sustainable. We do not want to stop treating poor patients, but we cannot continue services without a financially viable system, the statement concluded. We urge Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah ji, and Health Minister Sakeena Itoo to intervene and appeal them to chair the Governing Council meeting on 23rd June so that to ensure the scheme is streamlined, the association said.
NIT Srinagar faculty sensitized on mental health, emotional intelligence
Srinagar, Jun 19: The Counselling Cell, in collaboration with the Cultural Club of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, successfully organized two Faculty Upgradation Programmes in online mode aimed at strengthening faculty competencies in student mentoring, counselling, mental health, emotional well-being, and emotional intelligence in academic environments. The inaugural session of the workshops was chaired by In-Charge Director and Dean Research & Consultancy, Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir, who shared her experience and appreciated the efforts of the coordinators in organizing such meaningful and timely programmes. In his message, Director, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia said such faculty development initiatives are essential for creating a holistic academic environment. He emphasized that in todays rapidly evolving educational landscape, faculty members must be equipped not only with technical expertise but also with mentoring and emotional support skills to effectively guide students. Registrar, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rahman remarked that mental health and emotional well-being are becoming increasingly important in higher education institutions. He appreciated the Counselling Cell and Cultural Club for organizing such timely programmes that strengthen the institutions support system for both faculty and students. The workshops were coordinated by Dr. Neeraj Gupta, Dr. Vijay Kumar, and Dr. Dinesh Kr. Rajendran and Mr. Aamir Bashir, Counsellor, whose dedicated efforts ensured the successful organization and smooth conduct of both programmes. Dr. Neeraj Gupta, Coordinator, said these workshops were designed to sensitize faculty about the psychological and emotional challenges faced by students and to enhance their capacity to respond with empathy and professionalism. The first workshop titled Student Mentoring Skills Workshop / Student Mentoring & Counselling featured Mr. Wasim Rashid Kakroo, RCI-registered Clinical Psychologist, and Mr. Aamir Bashir, Counsellor, as resource persons. Wasim, an accomplished clinical psychologist with extensive experience in psychological assessment, psychotherapy, trauma-focused interventions, and child and adolescent mental health, delivered insightful sessions on the growing mental health challenges faced by university students. Faculty members were trained to identify early warning signs of emotional distress, behavioural changes, academic decline, and crisis indicators among students. The second workshop, titled Mental Well-Being & Emotional Intelligence for Faculty / Mental Health & Well-Being, was held on Friday. The session featured Dr. Devendra Singh Basera, Assistant Professor and Consultant Neuro-Psychiatrist at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Government Medical College, Sirohi, Rajasthan, along with Mr. Aamir Bashir, Counsellor. Dr. Basera, an eminent psychiatrist and researcher known for his pioneering work in youth mental health, stress management, suicide prevention, and tribal suicide studies in India, delivered a special academic session on Emotional Intelligence in Academia. Faculty members engaged in discussions around real-world academic challenges such as publication pressure, grant rejections, imposter syndrome, student engagement, team management, and leadership responsibilities. Dr. Basera emphasized that while cognitive intelligence (IQ) supports technical expertise and problem-solving, emotional intelligence enables individuals to manage interpersonal relationships, regulate emotions, and build healthy academic ecosystems.
Training program on pre-hospital trauma care, management held ahead of Yatra
Baramulla, Jun 19: A two-day training programme on Pre-Hospital Trauma Care and Management was organized for Emergency Medical Technicians of 108 Jammu & Kashmir Emergency Medical Services at the Regional Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Dhobiwan, Baramulla, in preparation for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY). The training aimed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of EMTs and enhance their preparedness for deployment during the yatra. Sessions covered key areas including Basic Life Support (BLS), trauma patient assessment and management, respiratory emergencies, environmental emergencies, mass casualty incident management, triage and management of high-altitude sickness. On the first day, Dr. Asif Chaudhary, Program Manager, NHM, and Junaid Zaroo, Assistant Program Manager, NHM, attended the training programme and interacted with the participants. The training was facilitated by Dr. Ali Sheikh and Dr. Mir Abid, who provided hands-on training and practical demonstrations to the participants. On the second day, Er. Sajid Amin, Nodal Officer, 108/102 Services, Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, attended the programme and appreciated the vital role of 108 ambulance services, describing them as the backbone of the healthcare emergency response system. He emphasized the importance of continuous skill upgradation and preparedness to ensure effective pre-hospital care and timely medical assistance during the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. Mushtaq Ahmed, Project Head, 108 Jammu & Kashmir Emergency Medical Services, informed that every year 20 to 25 Advanced Life Support and Basic Life Support ambulances are strategically deployed at various locations along the Chandanwari and Baltal routes to provide timely medical services to pilgrims undertaking the yatra. The programme concluded with practical demonstrations, interactive sessions and an assessment of participants, reaffirming the commitment of 108 J&K Emergency Medical Services towards strengthening emergency healthcare delivery during SANJY 2026.
Interactive session with theatre artists held in Srinagar
Srinagar, Jun 19: Koshur Foundation in collaboration with Manzoor Mirs Academy of Arts (MMAA) Pattan on Friday organised an interactive session with theatre artists at the Cultural Academy Lal Mandi, Srinagar. The event featured distinguished guests from Rajasthan, Ramesh Borana, former Chairman of the Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Akademey and Benaka Jaismalo, former Chairperson of the Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Academy. The programme was presided over by Manzoor Ahmad Mir, Director of Koshur Foundation and President of MMAA. The session brought together theatre artists, writers, directors, cultural activists and Bhand Pather performers to discuss the current state of theatre in Kashmir, preservation of traditional art forms and opportunities for cultural collaboration. Speakers emphasized the importance of institutional support, cultural exchange, and inter-state cooperation in strengthening theatre and the performing arts. Participants also expressed their commitment to promoting Kashmirs rich theatrical heritage .
Secretary RDD reviews progress of UT Capex works
Srinagar, Jun 19: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) & Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad on Friday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the progress of works being executed under the UT Capex 202627 programme and reviewed various infrastructure projects related to District Development Councils (DDCs), Block Development Councils (BDCs) and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). The meeting was attended by Director Rural Development Kashmir, Riyaz Ahmad Wani; Director Rural Development Jammu, Shahnaz Akhtar; Director Finance, Umar Khan; Joint Director Planning, Kamal Kumar Sharma; Assistant Commissioners Development (ACDs), Executive Engineers and other senior officers of the Department. During the meeting, the Secretary conducted a detailed district-wise review of ongoing and newly sanctioned projects and emphasized the need for timely completion of works and efficient utilization of funds. He directed the officers to ensure immediate billing of all completed works and asserted that delays at any stage of project execution would not be tolerated. The Secretary further instructed the officers to expeditiously resolve issues related to land availability and approach roads. He said that wherever land is unavailable at the identified site, alternative suitable land should be earmarked without delay. Aijaz Asad underscored that both Directors of Rural Development should closely monitor the billing of released funds on a daily basis and ensure that all completed works are billed within one week. Reviewing ongoing projects, he directed the concerned officers to clear all liabilities and maintain the momentum of implementation. He also called for expediting the execution of newly approved works and instructed that estimates and other procedural formalities be completed at the earliest to facilitate timely commencement of projects. The Secretary also reviewed the progress of works being executed under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) and stressed the importance of their early completion. Further, he directed the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the construction of four Panchayat Bhawans in Jammu and Kashmir, including two each in the Jammu and Kashmir divisions. Referring to the Viksit Village Initiative, he informed that financial approval has already been received and instructed officers to finalize and freeze the village-wise DPRs within one week so that works could be initiated in right earnest. Highlighting the achievements under the UT Capex programme, the Secretary was informed that the Department has undertaken 2,718 Community Development works across the Union Territory during 202627, including 1,530 ongoing works and 1,188 newly approved works. Besides, the Department is implementing 58 institutional infrastructure projects comprising District Development Council (DDC) office buildings, Block Development Council (BDC) office buildings and PRI residential accommodation across Jammu and Kashmir.
CS reviews arrangements for Annual Mela Kheer Bhawani at Tulmulla
Ganderbal, Jun 19: Chief Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir, Atal Dulloo on Friday visited the Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple at Tulmulla and reviewed the arrangements being put in place for the smooth conduct of the annual Mela Kheer Bhawani. Commissioner Secretary, General Administration Department and Health & Medical Education Department, M. Raju; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg; Vice Chancellor, Central University of Kashmir, Prof. A. Ravindra Nath; Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore; Director Urban Local Bodies Kashmir; Director Health Services Kashmir; Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal, besides senior officers from civil and police administration, Central University of Kashmir, Dharmarth Trust and line departments were present on the occasion. At the outset, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, briefed the Chief Secretary about the arrangements being put in place for the annual mela. He informed that comprehensive measures have been undertaken to ensure comfortable accommodation for devotees, including lodging facilities within the temple premises including Yatri Niwas and at the Central University of Kashmir campus, besides at other local educational institutions and in tents. He also apprised the visiting dignitary of the provision of langar facilities, drinking water supply, uninterrupted power, sanitation, medical assistance, parking management and traffic regulation. He informed that special focus has been laid on cleanliness of the shrine premises, illumination of approach roads, establishment of help desks, public address systems and facilitation measures for elderly and differently-abled devotees. During the visit, the Chief Secretary inspected various facilities within the shrine complex and took stock of the preparedness of different departments. He reviewed arrangements related to sanitation, drinking water supply, power availability, lighting, public conveniences, medical aid, security, traffic management and other essential services being provided for devotees. The CS also inspected the Medical Aid Centre established at the shrine and directed the Health Department to ensure adequate availability of doctors, paramedical staff, medicines, ambulances and emergency response facilities during the mela period. Earlier, the Chief Secretary also visited the Main Campus of the Central University of Kashmir (CUK), Tulmulla, where accommodation facilities have been arranged for visiting devotees. He inspected the tentage area, Science Block, Administrative Block and other designated areas identified for lodging of pilgrims and reviewed the arrangements being made for their comfortable stay. During the inspection, he reviewed the availability of accommodation facilities, tents, bedding, sanitation arrangements, drinking water supply, power backup, lighting and toilet facilities. He also inspected the sites earmarked for langar services and directed the concerned agencies to ensure proper hygiene, cleanliness and adequate facilities for devotees. The CS reviewed the parking plan and movement of vehicles within and around the campus. He emphasized the need for proper traffic regulation, designated parking spaces, clear signages and hassle-free movement of devotees to avoid congestion during peak hours. Dulloo stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among all departments to ensure that devotees are provided a safe, comfortable and dignified experience. He directed the concerned officers to complete all remaining works within the stipulated timeframe and maintain round-the-clock monitoring of arrangements. Describing Mela Kheer Bhawani as a significant religious occasion and an enduring symbol of Kashmir's rich composite culture, the CS called upon all stakeholders to work with dedication and a spirit of public service to ensure the successful and peaceful conduct of the annual mela.
Northern Command Chief calls on LG Sinha
Srinagar, Jun 19: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Northern Command, called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday. He was accompanied by Lt Gen Balbir Singh, GOC Chinar Corps; Lt Gen Rajan Sharawat, GOC 9 Corps and Lt Gen P. K. Mishra, GOC 16 Corps.
LG thanks PM for job creation, social security push in J&K
Srinagar, Jun 19: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday disbursed incentives amounting toRs2,400 crore to more than 15 lakh beneficiaries across the country under Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), with regional programmesorganized simultaneously at 200 locations nationwide, while Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, addressing the UT-level eventthrough virtual mode,expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for driving inclusive growth and expanding social security coverage in Jammu and Kashmir. The main programme was held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, attended by Union Minister of Labour & Employment Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of State for Labour & Employment Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, senior officials, employer representatives, and employee beneficiaries. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister noted that India's youth are receivingunprecedented recognition globallyfor their talent, skills, andpotential, andemphasised that the government is committed to ensuring every young person has the opportunity to transform their potential into success. Prime Minister Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana is much more than an employment scheme. It is an initiative designed to strengthen the aspirations of young people entering their first jobs while creating a robust bridge between industry and the workforce, PM Modi remarked. In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, 1,522 employees received incentives worthRs74 lakh, while aboutRs25.42 croreweredirectly transferred into the bank accounts of 304 employers. Today, over 3,300 local establishments are registered under the scheme, bringing more than 22,500 youths into formal employment for the first time, with over 31,000 job openings qualifying for incentives, driving a direct positive transformation in the lives of more than 53,000 citizens. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, addressing the UT-level event through virtual mode, said: This historic occasion is not merely a program for distributing financial benefits under a government scheme, but it is also a celebration of Jammu & Kashmir's transformative journey. It is a celebration of the dreams, aspirations, and opportunities that are giving a new direction to the lives of our youth today. He said that before August 2019, workers in J&K were deprived of comprehensive social securityprotections, butfollowing the implementation of the Employees' Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952, in November 2019, lakhs of regional workers were integrated into the national social security fold for the first time. LG SInha commended the Employees Provident Fund Organisation for implementing significant reforms aligning with 'Ease of Doing Business' and 'Ease of Living,' lauded participating employers for becoming vital partners in nation-building, and urged remaining enterprises in the UT to register under the scheme. PM-VBRY is a flagship Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme aimed at promoting formal employment, supporting first-time entrants into the organised workforce, and incentivising employers to create additional jobs. Eligible first-time employees receive one month's wage, up toRs15,000, while employers are provided with incentives for two years for generating additional employment. The manufacturing sector is eligible for extended support for an additional two years. The main event was broadcast at Lok Bhavan Srinagar, Convention Centre Jammu, NIFT College SIDCO Industrial Complex Ompora Budgam, and Bari Brahmana Industrial Association, Samba. At the Convention Centre Jammu, the programme was attended by Member of Parliament Lok Sabha Jugal Kishore Sharma, Member of Parliament Rajya Sabha Sat Sharma, and more than 600 participants. Twenty employment letters were distributed at Jammu and six at Samba. Labour Commissioner J&K Charandeep Singh, Regional Provident Fund Commissioner-I Sumeet Singh, beneficiaries, employers, industry association representatives, public representatives, senior officials, and EPFO officers and staff attended the programmes at different venues. The employer representative highlighted the positive impact of the scheme on industries and businesses, while the employee representative shared his experience regarding benefits received and appreciated the government's efforts to support workers through direct financial assistance.
PMSBY coverage crosses 29 lakh in J&K
J&K Bank leads with 12.82 lakh enrolments Srinagar, Jun 19: The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) has covered over 29 lakh people across Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting thegrowing outreach of the flagship social security schemeacross the Union Territory. According to official data on the cumulative progress of PMSBY as of December 31, 2025, a total of 29,08,607 enrolments have been recorded in J&K. Of these, 21,56,103 beneficiaries belong to rural areas while 7,52,374 are from urban areas, indicating the scheme's extensive penetration in the countryside. The data reveals that against an annual target of 5,82,037 enrolments for 2025-26, banks in the Union Territory achieved 5,54,812 enrolments during the period under review. J&K Bank emerged as the leading contributor to the scheme, accounting for 12,82,148 cumulative enrolments, including 10,82,352 rural and 1,99,796 urban subscribers. The bank also surpassed its annual target by achieving 3,37,717 enrolments against a target of 1,86,000. Jammu and Kashmir Grameen Bank (JKGB) ranked second with 5,48,734 cumulative enrolments, while the State Bank of India recorded 4,47,811 enrolments. Punjab National Bank followed with 2,17,012 subscribers. The insurance scheme, which provides accidental death and disability cover, has also facilitated claim settlements for affected families. The report shows that 1,469 claims were received under PMSBY across J&K. Of these, 1,209 claims were settled, 131 were rejected, and 130 remain under process. A total claim amount of Rs 23.75 crore has been disbursed to beneficiaries and their families under the scheme. Among banks, J&K Bank recorded the highest number of claims with 815 cases received, followed by JKGB with 221 claims and the State Bank of India with 170 claims. J&K Bank also accounted for the highest claim payout of Rs 12.92 crore. Officials said the figures underline the growing awareness and acceptance of government-backed social security schemes among citizens, particularly in rural areas, helping provide financial protection against accidental death and disability.
Govt to announce Hajj-2027 policy soon
Preparations begin; Centre plans AI-enabled services, improved facilities for pilgrims Srinagar, Jun 19: After the successful culmination of Hajj-2026, the Union Government is mulling to announce the new Hajj-2027 policy soon. Officials informed Rising Kashmir that the preparations for Hajj-2027 have been initiated, while the new Hajj Policy is expected to be announced shortly, which would pave the way for an early application process for prospective pilgrims across the country. Once the Haj Policy-2027 is unveiled, the Haj Committee of India (HCoI) will invite applications from intending pilgrims, allowing authorities to begin the selection and planning process well in advance, they said. During a high-level review of Hajj-2026 arrangements and future planning, the government examined measuresaimed at enhancingthe pilgrimage experience through greater use of technology. A key focus of the discussions was the phased introduction of artificial intelligence (AI)-based interventions to streamline end-to-end Hajj pilgrim management. The proposed initiatives include a 24x7 multilingual voice-based support system in Hindi, Urdu and major regional languages, AI-assisted verification of applications and documents, demand modelling for flight allocation across embarkation points, and real-time grievance tracking and escalation mechanisms. Officials said the technology-driven initiatives are part of the government's broader push towards a more efficient and pilgrim-friendly Hajj management system, ensuring timely assistance and improved coordination at every stage of the pilgrimage. After reviewing theroadmap for Hajj-2027, all theconcerned ministries, agencies, HCoI and other stakeholders have been directed to begin preparationson priority. The exercise will cover quota allocation, eligibility norms, health requirements, flight operations, accommodation, transportation, Mina facilities, medical preparedness and wider adoption of digital technologies. Sustained coordination with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and adherence to prescribed timelineswouldbe crucial for the successful conduct of Hajj-2027. According to the schedule, preparations will culminate in the signing of the bilateral Hajj Agreement for 2027 between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on November 7, 2026, laying the foundation for arrangements aimed at ensuring greater comfort, safety and health security for Indian pilgrims.
SANJY: IGP Kashmir briefs top officers
Maintain highest professionalism, adhere to SOPs Srinagar, Jun 19: In preparation for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir V.K. Birdi on Friday briefed Zonal Officers and Sector Officers to review coordination and operational preparedness along the Yatra route, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, vigilance, and public service. The briefing was attended by DIG CKR Srinagar, DIG SKR Anantnag, DIG Armed Kashmir, SSP PCR Kashmir, SO to IGP Kashmir, all ZOs and SOs deputed for SANJY-2026, and other senior officers. IGP Kashmir directed officers to remain fully prepared to meet all security and logistical challenges and ensure effective implementation of the established security grid. He instructed Zonal Officers to conduct regular briefings of Sector Officers and jawans under their command so that all personnel remain fully aware of their duties, responsibilities, and the prevailing security scenario, stressing the need for continuous supervision and effective communication at all levels of deployment. Officers were further directed to maintain close coordination with sister agencies operating within their respective areas of responsibility to ensure seamless information sharing, joint response mechanisms, and synchronized operational efforts throughout the Yatra period, a police spokesperson said. Highlighting the importance of public service, the Kashmir Police chief called upon all officers and personnel to extend every possible assistance to devotees, ensuring their safety, convenience, and well-being, and reiterated that a people-friendly approach should be maintained while discharging duties. He underscored the importance of strict discipline, professionalism, and adherence to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), urging all ranks to remain alert, maintain a high level of operational readiness, and uphold the reputation of the force through exemplary conduct. The meeting concluded with a detailed review of coordination mechanisms and contingency measures to ensure a peaceful and incident-free Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026.
DSEK suspends classes in NEET centres today
Decision aimed at ensuring proper arrangements, environment for aspirants Srinagar, Jun 19: The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) on Friday ordered the suspension of classwork in schools designated as centres for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) 2026 examination across Kashmir Valley on June 20 (Saturday). According to an order issued by the Director School Education Kashmir, classwork shall remain suspended in all schools identified as NEET examination centres to facilitate preparations and arrangements for the smooth conduct of the examination scheduled on June 21 (Sunday). The order stated that the decision has been taken to ensure proper arrangements and hassle-free conduct of the national-level entrance examination. It further warned that any deviation from the directions would invite strict action under the law against the defaulting institution. Among the schools where classwork will remain suspended are Government Girls Model Higher Secondary School Anantnag, Government Boys Model Higher Secondary School Bijbehara, Government Boys Model Higher Secondary School Barakpora, Government Girls Higher Secondary School Bijbehara, Government Higher Secondary School Dialgam, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Anantnag, Government Higher Secondary School Wanpoh, SRJ Government Higher Secondary School Khanabal, Government Model Higher Secondary School Nanil, Government Higher Secondary School Mattan, Government Girls Higher Secondary School Aishmuqam, Government Higher Secondary School Sangus, Government Model Higher Secondary School Kokernag, Government Higher Secondary School Devalgam, Government Model Higher Secondary School Dooru, Government Girls Higher Secondary School Verinag, Gani Khan Memorial Government Higher Secondary School Checkiwangund, Qazigund, Government Higher Secondary School Sirgufwara, HSS Arwani Bijbehara, GHSS Sagam and Government Girls Higher Secondary School Dooru. The authorities have directed the heads of the concerned institutions to ensure full compliance with the order and extend necessary cooperation for the conduct of the NEET examination.
With hundreds of crores unpaid, J&Ks empanelled hospitals push Ayushman SEHAT to the brink The ultimatum issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Private Empanelled Hospitals and Dialysis Centres Association (JKPHDA) to deempanel en masse from the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY / SEHAT scheme from 1 July 2026 is not a routine sectoral dispute. It is a fullblown healthcare emergency in the making, brought about not by lack of policy vision, but by the administrations stubborn refusal to translate words into action. For two years, private hospitals have been warning that Ayushman SEHAT in J&K has slid into a nonperforming mess. Since March 2024, they say the scheme is at its most nonperforming state. Claims are delayed, package rates are unrealistic, and preauthorisations are a bureaucratic maze. Dues worth several hundred crores are reportedly stuck with the State Health Agency. Yet all they receive, year after year, are the same soothing phrases: assurances , reviews , sympathy and no systemic fix. Hospitals are not charities; they are institutions that must pay salaries, procure medicines and maintain lifesaving equipment. When they continue to provide cashless treatment while the government sits on their genuine dues, the financial stress does not remain on the balance sheets. It spills directly onto patients bedsides. Nowhere is this more chilling than in the case of maintenance haemodialysis. Dialysis is not an optional procedure; it is a life-sustaining therapy, three times a week, for thousands of poor patients. Once private hospitals walk out of SEHAT, these patients will be forced to somehow find 8,00010,000 every month, an impossible sum for families already crushed by inflation and joblessness. For many, this will amount to a slow, stateengineered death sentence. JKPHDA has gone out of its way to underline that it supports the vision of Ayushman Bharat. It is not asking for privilege; it is asking for survival: immediate clearance of pending payments, rationalisation of package rates, and faster, predictable authorisations so that the scheme becomes viable instead of punitive. If a flagship health scheme cannot even keep its own providers solvent, what remains of its promise of universal health coverage? The Association has now publicly appealed to the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Health Minister Sakeena Itoo to personally intervene and chair the Governing Council meeting on 23 June. That meeting cannot be yet another talking shop. It must end with timebound commitments, written orders and a transparent roadmap that hospitals and the public can hold the government to. Ayushman SEHAT was sold as a lifeline for the poorest. If the government allows that lifeline to be choked by its own indifference, it will stand accused not just of policy failure but of abandoning its most vulnerable citizens at the dialysis chair.
Wular Lake: A Visit to Kashmirs Blue Heart
To stand beside Wular is to realise that some places are far greater than their physical dimensions ISHFAQ MANZOOR Yesterday, I visited Wular Lake. The journey itself was beautiful. As the road curved through the countryside of north Kashmir and the lake gradually came into view, I was greeted by an expanse of water stretching towards the horizon. The morning breeze was gentle, the mountains stood majestically in the distance, and the occasional call of birds added a sense of calm that is difficult to describe in words. Standing on its shores, one immediately understands why Wular occupies such a special place in the geography and imagination of Kashmir. It is not merely a water body; it is a living landscape, a repository of memories, and one of the Valley's most cherished natural treasures. For generations, the lake has supported communities, sustained biodiversity, and served as a symbol of theintimate relationship between Kashmir and nature. There is a certain serenity about Wular that commands silence. The water reflects the sky like a giant mirror, and the cool breeze carries with it a feeling of timelessness. Looking across its vast expanse, I felt that I was standing before one of nature's masterpieces. Yet, amid all this beauty, another reality quietly presented itself. At some points along the lake, I noticed litter and discarded plastic materials. Certain patches bore signs of human neglect. The sight was disheartening, not because it diminished the grandeur of Wular, but because it reminded me that even nature's most magnificent creations require our care and responsibility. Pollution is perhaps one of the greatest challenges confronting lakes and wetlands across the world, and Wular is no exception. Plastic waste, indiscriminate dumping of refuse, and a general lack of environmental consciousness can gradually affect the ecological health of any water body. Such practices threaten not only the beauty of the lake but also the birds, fish, and countless other forms of life that depend upon its waters. As I stood there yesterday, I could see fishermen going about their work and birds gliding over the water. It struck me that Wular is far more than a scenic destination. It is an ecological asset and a source of livelihood for many families. Its well-being is closely linked with the well-being of communities that have lived around it for generations. Fortunately, Wular is also a story of hope. Conservation is not the responsibility of institutions alone. Every visitor, every resident, and every citizen has a role to play. A plastic bottle thrown carelessly into the water, a piece of litter left on the shore, or the habit of treating natural spaces casually may seem insignificant in isolation, but their cumulative effect can be substantial. Equally, small acts of responsibility can make an enormous difference. Carrying back one's waste, avoiding the use of disposable plastics, spreading awareness, and respecting the natural surroundings are simple steps that can contribute immensely to preserving Wular's beauty. Environmental stewardship often begins with ordinary actions performed consistently. As I continued to walk along the shore, the lake seemed to communicate a quiet message. Nature gives generously. It asks for little in return except respect and care. Wular has provided countless ecological and economic benefits over centuries. It has absorbed floods, supported biodiversity, nurtured livelihoods, and enriched the cultural identity of Kashmir. Such a priceless gift deserves our continued attention and protection. The lake's immense beauty remains undiminished. Even in the presence of pollution at certain locations, its grandeur is impossible to ignore. The waters still shimmer under the sunlight, migratory birds continue to visit, and the surrounding landscape still possesses the ability to inspire wonder and reflection. As evening approached, the sun cast golden rays upon the lake, transforming its surface into a sheet of liquid gold. The mountains, the sky, and the water seemed to merge into a single breathtaking panorama. It was one of those rare moments when one feels profoundly grateful for the existence of places like Wular. I left the lake with mixed emotions. I carried admiration for its extraordinary beauty and concern for the challenges that it faces. Above all, I carried a renewed conviction that Wular deserves our sustained attention and care. Yesterday's visit reminded me that Wular Lake is not merely a geographical feature on a map. It is the blue heart of Kashmira heart that continues to beat with remarkable strength and beauty. Like every precious inheritance, it calls upon us to cherish it, protect it, and ensure that future generations inherit its waters in all their splendour. To stand beside Wular is to realise that some places are far greater than their physical dimensions. They become part of our collective identity. Yesterday, as I watched the fading sunlight dance upon its waters, I felt that Wular was not asking for grand promises. It was asking for something far simpler: our respect, our attention, and our shared responsibility to keep this timeless jewel of Kashmir as beautiful as it deserves to be. (The Author is a Library Futurist and a writer from Kulgam. Email: waniishfaq0001@gmail.com )
Agriculture Backbone of Kashmir, Farmers to Get Full Support: Rana
Ministers conduct on-the-spot inspection of irrigation facilities across Ganderbal Ganderbal, June 19: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, along with Minister for Agriculture Production Department and Rural Development Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Friday conducted an extensive on-the-spot inspection of various areas of Ganderbal district to assess the availability of irrigation water and review the functioning of irrigation facilities across the district. The objective of the visit was to ensure adequate water supply to the agricultural lands and addressing the concerns of farmers, particularly in tail-end areas. The areas covered during the inspection included Warpora, Waqura, Nowbugh, Tulmullah, Waskura, Safapora, Shuhama, Buserbugh and several other localities across the district. During the inspection, the Ministers interacted with the farmers and local residents to obtain first-hand feedback regarding irrigation facilities and water availability. Accompanied by the Chief Engineer and other senior officers of the Jal Shakti and other allied departments, they reviewed the ground situation and directed the concerned officials to immediately address all bottlenecks affecting the smooth supply of irrigation water. Interacting with the farmers, Javed Rana emphasized that agriculture remains the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir's economy and the primary source of livelihood for a vast section of the population. Agriculture is the mainstay of the people across the Kashmir Valley and the welfare of our farmers remains of utmost importance for the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Safeguarding farmers' interests and ensuring the timely availability of irrigation water are among our foremost priorities and are committed to extend every possible support to the farming community, Rana assured. The Minister instructed the officers to remain in the field, intensify monitoring and ensure prompt resolution of all irrigation-related issues. He emphasized that any complaint regarding water scarcity or irrigation facilities should be brought directly to his office for immediate redressal. Rana stressed the need to optimize water-use efficiency through improved irrigation management, enhanced monitoring of irrigation infrastructure and timely maintenance of canals and water channels. He added that while Jammu and Kashmir has immense agricultural potential, realizing higher productivity requires a coordinated approach involving efficient water management, better infrastructure and responsive governance. He called upon the concerned officers to remain proactive in addressing the field-level issues. Javid Ahmad Dar, during his interaction with the farmers, observed that water is the most critical resource for agriculture and that its efficient management is essential for sustaining farm productivity and ensuring long-term agricultural growth. He assured the farming community that the government is closely monitoring the situation and that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure uninterrupted irrigation facilities and address genuine grievances without delay. The Ministers reiterated that the welfare of farmers remains central to the government's development agenda and affirmed that all possible steps would be taken to strengthen irrigation infrastructure, improve water-use efficiency and support sustainable agricultural growth across the Valley. Later, the Ministers also held a review meeting with the officers of the Jal Shakti, Forest department, Agriculture Production Department and other allied departments at the DFO Office, Ganderbal. During the meeting, they took stock of the ongoing works and schemes being implemented by the departments in the district and directed the officers to ensure timely completion of all pending projects. They emphasized the need for better coordination between the departments for effective implementation of developmental works and instructed the officers to address field-level issues on priority.
Beyond Crops: A New Economic Freedom for Farmers
Indias New Agricultural Journey: Beyond Crops, Towards Prosperity SHIVRAJ SINGH CHOUHAN Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Indian agriculture has, over the past 12 years, entered a completely new era. Earlier, our biggest concern was ensuring that the country did not face a shortage of foodgrains and that hunger could somehow be prevented. Today, Prime Minister Modis visionary leadership and farmer-centric policies have transformed agriculture from being merely a sector of production into an integrated foundation for farmers prosperity, risk protection, nutritional security, green technology and rural development. For the first time since the Green Revolution, policy focus has shifted from simply asking how much production to deeper questions such as what is the farmers actual income, how sustainable is agriculture, and how strong is the rural economy. It is with this broader thinking that the Pulses and Oilseeds Mission, Cotton Mission, National Mission on Natural Farming, Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PM-DDKY), Khet Bachao Abhiyan, digital agriculture and research-led innovation are all being connected through one comprehensive vision for agricultural transformation and rural prosperity. Beyond Production: Income, Security and the Rural Economy Today, India has achieved a record foodgrain production of 376.563 million tonnes, the highest in the nations history. Paddy, wheat, maize, pulses and oilseeds have all registered remarkable growth. This is not merely a story of increased production; it is evidence of the expansion and strengthening of the overall rural economy. Alongside this, the Modi government has placed equal emphasis on farmers risk protection and income security. Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), more than Rs 4.27 lakh crore has so far been directly transferred into farmers bank accounts through 22 installments, providing regular annual income support to over nine crore farmer families across the country. At the same time, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) has provided a strong insurance shield to crores of farmer applicants by protecting them against crop losses caused by natural disasters and other adverse conditions. Investments in irrigation, rural roads, agricultural infrastructure, warehouses and cold-chain systems have strengthened all three critical pillars of agriculture production, storage and market access. Agriculture today is no longer confined to the boundaries of farmland alone. Dairy, fisheries, poultry, horticulture, beekeeping, food processing, storage systems, rural industries, solar energy and the service sector are all combining to create a new and diversified rural economy. This transformation is generating employment opportunities, increasing rural incomes and building resilience among farming communities. The governments vision is not merely to support farming activity, but to create an entire ecosystem where agriculture becomes the foundation of economic growth, entrepreneurship and rural development. Pulses, Oilseeds and Cotton Missions: Self-Reliance and Price Security For a long time, the sectors of pulses, edible oils and cotton remained below their full potential. India remained dependent on imports for pulses and edible oils, while cotton farmers frequently had to face volatility in global markets. Recognising the strategic importance of these sectors, the Modi government has accorded them special priority and launched separate missions to address their challenges in a comprehensive manner. Through the National Pulses Mission, work is being carried out across the entire value chain from seeds to markets in order to increase both the cultivated area and productivity of tur, urad, masoor, gram and other pulses. This includes the promotion of high-yield varieties, cluster-based farming, processing units, a strengthened MSP (minimum support price) framework, government procurement systems, storage facilities and export support. The objective is clear: India should become fully self-reliant in pulses, reduce its import bill and ensure that farmers receive sustainable incomes from these high-value crops. Similarly, under the Oilseeds Mission, special emphasis is being placed on crops such as mustard, soybean, sunflower, sesame and palm oil. This is not merely a programme aimed at increasing production. It is part of a larger national strategy to achieve self-reliance in edible oils, strengthen the countrys oil security and provide better prices to farmers. The mission seeks to improve productivity through scientific interventions, modern agricultural practices and improved market linkages. Alongside these efforts, the Cotton Mission is focusing on high-yield and pest-resistant cotton varieties, advanced farming systems, integrated pest management, crop diversification, better integration with the textile value chain and quality improvement measures. Cotton is a major cash crop for millions of Indian farmers, and the mission aims to ensure that farmers not only increase production but also receive stable incomes, better market value and globally competitive quality standards. Through these initiatives, the government seeks to reduce dependence on imports while simultaneously strengthening farmers incomes and Indias agricultural economy. National Mission on Natural Farming: A New Path for One Crore Farmers Across 75 Lakh Hectares Rapidly increasing dependence on chemicals, declining soil health and growing pressure on groundwater resources are warning signs that farming methods must change. Recognising this challenge, natural farming is being advanced as a national mission under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Our commitment is to sensitise one crore farmers towards natural farming practices, actively prepare around 18 lakh farmers to adopt natural farming and gradually bring nearly 75 lakh hectares of land under natural cultivation practices in a phased manner. This transformation is being carried out gradually, on the basis of scientific evidence and farmers own experiences. Small farmers are being encouraged to experiment with natural farming models on a portion of their land. They are being provided training, locally sourced input packages, certification support, branding assistance and market connectivity. The broader objective is to improve soil fertility, reduce chemical input costs, make crops more resilient against climate-related shocks and provide consumers with healthier and more nutritious food. Natural farming is also being viewed as a sustainable response to climate change. By reducing excessive chemical usage and promoting ecological balance, the mission seeks to preserve biodiversity, conserve water and restore long-term productivity of agricultural land. The government believes that the future of Indian agriculture lies not only in higher production but also in sustainability, environmental protection and improved health outcomes for both farmers and consumers. Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and Focus on 100 Low-Productivity Districts In a vast country like India, some regions progress rapidly while others continue to lag behind for various reasons. To reduce this imbalance, the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana has been conceptualised. Under this initiative, nearly 100 low-productivity districts have been identified where per-hectare yields remain significantly below the national average, and farmers are unable to obtain expected returns from agriculture. In these districts, convergence of 36 schemes from 11 departments is being implemented through an integrated development package. This includes irrigation, soil health management, seeds, fertilisers, crop diversification, animal husbandry, horticulture, agricultural equipment, skill development, infrastructure and market linkages all being brought together under one coordinated framework. The central idea is that government schemes should not function in isolated silos; instead, they should work collectively with the farmer and the village at the centre of planning and implementation. This marks an important shift in policy thinking. The focus is no longer limited to how much production is taking place, but also on identifying areas where productivity remains low and ensuring that targeted investments and interventions help increase yields and raise farmers incomes. The scheme seeks to create balanced agricultural growth and reduce regional disparities in rural development. Khet Bachao Abhiyan: Balancing Soil, Water and Farmers Interests In the race to increase production, pressure on soil and water resources has intensified in many regions. Imbalanced fertiliser use, excessive extraction of groundwater and limited crop rotation have adversely affected the health of agricultural land. If corrective measures are not taken in time, future generations may inherit weakened soils and degraded farmlands. Keeping this challenge in mind, the Khet Bachao Abhiyan has been launched. This campaign is not merely about protecting soil; it is about safeguarding farmers incomes, ensuring food quality and securing the countrys long-term food security. The campaign carries five key messages. Every farmer should use fertilisers based on soil testing; excessive dependence on DAP (diammonium phosphate) and urea should be reduced while balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) use, micronutrients, bio-fertilisers and nano-fertilisers should be promoted; green manure, organic manure and integrated nutrient management should be encouraged; farmers should remain vigilant against fake seeds, fertilisers and pesticides and immediately inform authorities about such cases; and organised movement towards natural farming and climate-resilient agricultural practices should be strengthened. The objective is not to abruptly reduce fertiliser usage, but to ensure that every farmer uses the right quantity, at the right time and in the right combination. This will help maintain long-term soil health, reduce cultivation costs and protect productivity. The campaign also seeks to create awareness among farmers about sustainable farming methods that balance profitability with environmental conservation. Science, Digital Agriculture and the Role of ICAR Science, research and digital technology form the backbone of all these efforts. Between 2014 and 2025, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the National Agricultural Research System (NARS) developed nearly 3,000 climate-resilient crop varieties capable of withstanding drought, floods, heat waves, salinity and other environmental stresses. In total, more than 3,800 high-yield varieties and over 200 bio-fortified varieties have been released, strengthening not only productivity but also nutritional security. Under the Digital Agriculture Mission and AgriStack, systems such as Farmer IDs, digitisation of crop plots, drone-based services, pest and disease monitoring, weather-based advisories and location-specific recommendations are being developed. These initiatives are rapidly reducing the gap between laboratories and farms, and between data collection and decision-making. Through platforms such as e-NAM, Kisan Saarthi, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) networks, mobile messaging services, WhatsApp groups, community radio and social media, scientists, extension workers and farmer leaders are now able to communicate directly with farmers. Agriculture and rural development are increasingly being viewed together through a holistic lens. Roads, electricity, internet connectivity, Self-Help Groups, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), rural industries and skill-development programmes can accelerate employment generation, entrepreneurship and social transformation in villages only when they move in step with agricultural development. Technology is also helping create transparency and efficiency in governance. Digital systems are making subsidies, insurance benefits and advisory services more accessible to farmers. The integration of modern research with grassroots implementation is enabling Indian agriculture to become more competitive, sustainable and resilient in the face of future challenges. Beyond the Quantity of Crops: Concrete Steps Towards Farmers Confidence In the coming years, India will have to further strengthen its agricultural system amid global food, nutrition and climate challenges. Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision is clear farmers incomes must rise, their hard work must receive proper value and respect, and self-reliance in pulses, oilseeds and cotton must strengthen nutritional, edible oil and textile security. Through PM-KISAN, PMFBY, natural farming, the Khet Bachao Abhiyan and climate-resilient technologies, the government seeks to ensure the protection of soil, water and farmers themselves. Through the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, targeted investment in low-productivity districts will reduce regional disparities and help every farmer progress. Science, research and digital technology will make farming more efficient, resilient, sustainable and globally competitive. When the farm survives, the farmer survives. When the farmer survives, agriculture survives. And when agriculture survives, Indias future will remain secure, prosperous and self-reliant. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this is the essence of Indias new agricultural journey moving beyond crops towards the confidence of farmers and the prosperity of rural India. (The Author is Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Rural Development. Courtesy: PIB)
Judging with Machines, Deciding as Humans: Human-in-the-Loop AI in Criminal Justice
In a criminal justice system operating under immense institutional pressure, Human-in-the-Loop AI has to be approached with an open mind JAASIR ASHRAF MIR The Supreme Courts decision, while granting bail to the accused in Syed Iftikhar Andrabi v. National Investigation Agency (2026), has brought in again in discussions a fundamental question in Indian criminal law pertaining to the role of courts in promoting consistency in the exercise of judicial discretion while preserving judicial independence, constitutional guarantees, and the flexibility necessary to achieve justice in individual cases. The immediate context of this question arises prominently in bail adjudication under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, particularly Section 43D(5) of UAPA; however, it extends across criminal procedure more broadly. That the Supreme Courts Draft Regulations for the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Courts, 2026, has further made the issue expedient. In this article, I make an exploration, whether a carefully regulated Human-in-the-Loop AI framework can assist judicial decision-making. Further, it argues that whether AI must never replace judicial reasoning or determine outcomes, even if it may help reduce arbitrariness, promote greater consistency, and support a more structured balancing of competing interests affecting personal liberty, thereby strengthening the rule of law. Judicial Discretion, Personal Liberty, and the Quest for Consistency in Bail Adjudication Bail adjudication under the UAPA is not often a routine procedural exercise. It calls upon the courts to balance personal liberty, national security, evidentiary thresholds, and constitutional rights. Central to such bail matters lies a continuing tension wherein courts must safeguard the individuals right to personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution while simultaneously addressing concerns relating to national security, public safety, the integrity of criminal investigations, and the effective administration of justice. Bail jurisprudence, therefore, operates within a framework shaped ordinarily by competing constitutional considerations and demands a harmonious approach. In the final analysis of such determination, Judicial discretion remains central to the exercise. Criminal cases differ in their facts, evidentiary records, procedural histories, and social contexts. Any attempt to eliminate discretion would equally risk undermining the ethos of justice itself. However, at the same time, discretion presents institutional challenges equally. In situations where similarly situated individuals approach different courts or even different benches of the same court, outcomes may vary considerably. The concern, therefore, is not the existence of discretion but the manner in which discretion is exercised and applied. A legal system committed to equality before the law and equal protection of the laws benefits from coherence, predictability, and reasoned consistency in judicial decision-making. In the Nature of the Judicial Process, Justice Benjamin Cardozo offers important insights into judicial decision-making. He explains that judicial decision-making is not a mechanical exercise involving the simple application of pre-existing rules. Rather, in cases where the law is incomplete or unsettled, judges inevitably draw upon precedent, logic, history, custom, and considerations of social utility. At the same time, Cardozo recognised that in straightforward cases, where clear statutory language or binding precedent exists, the judicial role is largely confined to applying the law to the facts before the court. The concern of discretionary power or, for that matter, the debate regarding it, is not new; it is as old as the laws. However, Andrabis case, when juxtaposed with the Supreme Court's AI draft regulation, provide us an opportunity to kick start the discussion regarding the exercise of discretionary power under the UAPA. More so, considering the inconsistency flagged by the Supreme Court in the Andrabi judgment. The Supreme Courts decision in Union of India v. K.A. Najeeb (2021) marked a significant constitutional intervention in UAPA bail Jurisprudence. In Najeeb, the Court laid down the principle that constitutional courts are not rendered powerless merely because Parliament has enacted restrictive bail provisions. The Court held that prolonged incarceration and a delayed trial may itself amount to a violation of Article 21. This situation leads to the continuing tension between the constitutional guarantee of personal liberty under Article 21 and statutory provisions that impose stringent restrictions on the grant of bail. In appropriate cases, therefore, continued detention may raise constitutional concerns under Article 21 even under a special statute containing a stringent embargo on bail. Following Najeeb, courts have been required to navigate the relationship between two distinct standards. The first is the statutory threshold under Section 43D(5) under UAPA, which requires courts to determine whether there are reasonable grounds for believing that the accusation is prima facie true. The second is the constitutional obligation to protect personal liberty and guard against indefinite incarceration. Subsequent decisions, including Gurwinder Singh v. State of Punjab (2024) and Gulfisha Fatima v. State (Govt. of NCT of Delhi) (2026), illustrate how courts have approached this tension differently in practice, particularly where the statutory embargo continues to weigh heavily despite significant delays in trial. The jurisprudence emanating from the Najeeb, Gurwinder Singh, and Gulfisha has therefore produced an inconsistent jurisprudence leading to confusion, which doesn't abode well for the rule of law. Following Najeeb, the SC in Andrabi appears to continue the constitutional balancing exercise. The Supreme Court, while granting bail to Andrabi, reaffirmed that the principles articulated in Najeeb in 2021 remain relevant where incarceration has become prolonged and the prospects of trial appear remote. Arguably, the judgment may be read as an effort to preserve the primacy of liberty while remaining attentive to the statutory framework of the UAPA. Whether the precedent set now reflects continuity or a context-specific refinement is a matter on which reasonable views may differ. Across Indias criminal justice system, the underlying challenge is broader than any single statute. Judges are routinely required to decide bail applications, remand matters, anticipatory bail petitions, and other pre-trial issues under substantial institutional constraints. Heavy caseloads, voluminous records, limited hearing time, and an ever-expanding body of precedent create conditions in which variations in reasoning and outcomes may be difficult to avoid. If consistency is to be improved without reducing the quality of the verdict into a mechanical exercise, the question to be considered now is how assistive technology can support judicial reasoning without displacing it. Human-in-the-Loop AI and the Supreme Court's Draft Regulatory Framework Constitutional Safeguards, Judicial Primacy, and the Future of Criminal Justice Indeed, the safeguards accompanying any technological intervention in the justice delivery system are important. However, if the use of technology and use of judicial primacy is used in a way which will aid in protecting constitutional values, consistency, transparency, explainability, auditability, data integrity, accountability, and strengthen the rule of law, it can revolutionise the whole justice system. The draft regulations is rightly a significant development and providing safeguards regarding the use and against automation bias, which is also essential, since judges may, in practice, attach undue weight to outputs that appear objective or technologically sophisticated. Since the legal processes become increasingly digital, interaction between technology and adjudication may become unavoidable. The more important question, therefore, is not whether technology should enter the courtroom. In many respects, it already has, and we experience it. The real issue is how it should be structured so that it supports constitutional values rather than weakening them. The recent trajectory of bail jurisprudence quoted above under the UAPA helps explain why this inquiry matters. In a legal system where liberty often depends upon the interpretation of precedent, and where similar factual situations can sometimes produce different outcomes, consistency is not merely an administrative preference. It is closely connected to equality before the law, procedural fairness, and the rule of law itself. Human-in-the-Loop AI may or may not eventually provide part of the answer. Even so, the scale, complexity, and institutional demands of Indias criminal justice system make it a question worthy of serious consideration. The issue should perhaps be viewed not as a technological solution to a legal problem, but as a constitutional and institutional inquiry into how courts might preserve coherence, consistency, transparency, proportionality and fairness in the administration of justice while strengthening the rule of law. The Supreme Courts draft Regulations for Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Courts, 2026, is therefore a significant development. The article lays more emphasis on all stakeholder participation in the consultation process, as it is likely to be crucial if the eventual framework is to support the rule of law while preserving judicial reasoning, judicial independence, and the human responsibility that remains central to adjudication. Draft Regulation on AI as a way forward and Preserving Judicial Primacy The active participation of experts and all stakeholders is important as to make the final regulations on AI useful, which will result in extracting maximum benefits from technological uses without compromising on a human-centric framework and reflecting a clear preference for judicial primacy. Today, the challenge is not one between judges and machines. Rather, it is how to reduce arbitrariness, minimise inconsistency, and ensure that the proportionality-based balancing of competing interests affecting personal liberty is undertaken in a more structured, transparent, and principled manner that strengthens the rule of law. In a criminal justice system operating under immense institutional pressure, Human-in-the-Loop AI has to be approached with an open mind and may offer one possible means of advancing these objectives while preserving judicial primacy. Whether it can do so effectively, however, remains a question that warrants sustained empirical and normative inquiry, one that Indian criminal jurisprudence can no longer afford to ignore. (The Author is LLM, SOAS as a Chevening Scholar (202324). Senior Prosecuting Officer, Government of Jammu and Kashmir)
Shelter Without Signature: Indias Refugee Dilemma On World Refugee Day
World Refugee Day should not become an occasion for sentimental rhetoric. Nor should it devolve into a binary contest between compassion and security COLONEL SATISH SINGH LALOTRA On World Refugee Day, observed annually on June 20 th, i.e., today, the international community pauses to reflect on one of humanitys most enduring tragedies: the forced displacement of people from their homes. Yet in 2026, the scale of the crisis has suddenly ballooned to an unimaginable extent, exacerbated with the ongoing Middle East ( US-Iranian) fracas that seems to be only ballooning further, showing no signs of abatement. In an era characterised by geopolitical conflicts, climate-induced displacement, ethnic violence, and political instability, the global refugee crisis has reached unprecedented proportions. According to the UNHCR( United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), more than 120 million people worldwide have been forcibly displaced from their homes. This figure includes refugees, asylum seekers, and IDPs (Internally displaced persons. These numbers are staggering, but they also represent millions of dreams interrupted and lives uprooted. Closer home, the endless cycle of Afghan refugees streaming across the Durand line via border posts of the ilk Torkham & Chaman border posts and many more from Pakistan amidst news of renewed Pak-Afghan skirmishes puts this day of 20 th June under a moral and ethical scanner. Should this day not be an action-oriented one for the betterment of the refugee cause and not one that indulges in platitudes of all hues? Nearly 42 million of them are refugees who have crossed the international borders, while tens of millions remain displaced within their own countries. The biggest examples of the latter category of IDPs are the Kashmiri Pandits. Remarkably, one in every 67 people on earth today is displaced. Most are not sheltered by the wealthy nations but by developing countries struggling with their own economic and social challenges. More than 2/3 of the worlds refugee population remains in neighbouring countries, often in the global south. The above statistics reveal not merely a humanitarian crisis, but a crisis of international politics bordering on gargantuan proportions. Interestingly, in an increasingly unsafe world, the theme of this years World Refugee Day 2026 is Until everyone is safe. What a paradox stretching from the bad lands of Ukraine, Russia, Iran, Myanmar, Nigeria, Afghanistan, to North Korea. Does any sane reader of the Rising Kashmir paper agree with this theme? Led by the UNHCR, the campaign highlights the critical need for global protection and support for over 120 million forcibly displaced people, as mentioned by me in above paragraphs. Now, why does this theme resonate the world over? The theme resonates for two reasons. Until everyone is safe is a call to keep the promise of the 1951 Refugee Convention alive, ensuring that displaced persons are not returned to danger and can live in dignity. Secondly, the above-mentioned theme strongly emphasises standing together with the refugee community recognising their resilience, welcoming them into host communities, and protecting their fundamental human rights. For India, World Refugee Day presents a particularly interesting paradox as stated above. As the topic of my write-up suggests, India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention or its 1967 protocol. It has no comprehensive refugee law and no legal framework governing refugee protection. Yet few countries, such as India, have hosted as many diverse refugee communities over such a long time. The birth pangs of Indian independence in 1947 were concomitant with one of the largest IDP (internally displaced persons) movements in the world. With an unending stream of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists and the ilk crossing over to the eastern part of the sub-continent and an equal if not more part of Muslims trudging across the Radcliffe line to the western half, India is not new to the refugee crisis. This apparent contradiction deserves closer examination. Indias approach to refugees is deeply rooted less in international treaty obligations than in a combination of civilizational values, geopolitical calculations, and pragmatic statecraft. Successive governments have argued that the refugee convention emerged from the specific circumstances of post war Europe and does not adequately address the complex realities of South Asia, where porous borders, irregular migration, terrorism and demographic pressures often have had an overarching influence on the body politic of these nations. Nevertheless, India does have an enviable record in sheltering refugees of this planet, often epitomising its centuries-old sagacity derived from its ancient scriptures stating in so many words as Vasudeva Kutumbakam (meaning world is one family). Refugees in contemporary India Since 1947, India has been both de facto & de jure a place for the worlds refugees, often to its own detriment. Right from its birth, India has been the preferred place of destination for Tibetans, Sri Lankan Tamils, Chakmas, Afghans, Bangladeshis, and, more recently, fleeing Rohingyas from Myanmar. India has often paid the price for being such a benevolent entity that its own sovereignty and existential presence was put at the altar of saving Tibetans in the 1950s and then in the 1971 during the liberation war of 1971. One of the biggest faces of India taking under its protective wings the high and mighty of the refugee population stems from the wife and daughter of the late slain president of Afghanistan, Mr Mohammed Najibullah, during the troubled 1990s, who now are ensconced in the relative safety of the Indian capital, New Delhi. The same is the recent case of the ex-president of Bangladesh, Mrs Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh. But can any refugee face the equal that of HH Dalai Lamas countenance? None, I suppose. The latest UNHCR report on the refugee situation in India states that India is now home to roughly 2.4 Lakh refugees from far and near countries. Women and girls form nearly half of this refugee population, while children account for more than one-third. There are many more that could easily fit into the list of whos who of the refugee population in India, but space constraints in this paper restrict my further elucidation on this aspect. Balancing Humanitarianism & National Security The refugee question is rarely simple. Nations must balance humanitarian obligations with concerns about national security, demographic pressures, resource allocations and social cohesion. Indias geographical location has been both a boon and a bane in matters concerning the refugee problem. Sharing long and porous borders with several countries, India remains vulnerable to illegal migration, trafficking networks, and cross-border security threats. Nevertheless, Indias experience demonstrates that humanitarian concerns need not be sacrificed at the altar of security. Effective identification systems, international cooperation, and well-designed refugee management frameworks can help ensure that those genuinely in need receive protection while safeguarding national interests. Economic and social contributions of Refugees Public discourse often portrays refugees as burdens on host societies. However, historical evidence suggests that refugees can become significant contributors to economic growth, cultural enrichment and social development. Indias own experience with Tibetans and Parsis in particular lends credence to the above fact. I am personally witness to the Tibetans unique contribution to the Indian security as well as the economic scenario. Having served for more than three and a half years with SFF( Special Frontier Force), an ultra-secret Para military organization part of the cabinet secretariat and mostly consisting of Tibetan troops in one of the harshest terrains of India, I can vouchsafe that this particular refugee community is more Indian than most of us Indians. So far so good, counting the pros and cons of the refugee problem worldwide. I would be failing in this article of mine if I didnt put on record the ultimate in plaguing this humanitarian crisis. The global refugee crisis is also unfolding against the backdrop of shrinking humanitarian budgets. While displacements continue to rise, international funding has failed to come by. Ultimately, World Refugee Day should not become an occasion for sentimental rhetoric. Nor should it devolve into a binary contest between compassion and security. As conflicts rage from Iran to the US, as well as Israel to Lebanon, with Ukraine & Russia too in an internecine combat with neither side willing to back down, the world faces a stark choicethe option to either treat the refugees as a byproduct of these conflicts or as human reality to be managed with wisdom, compassion and foresight. On this day of 20 th June, that choice remains one of the defining moral and political tests and not public posturing. (The writer is a retired army officer and a regular scribe of Rising Kashmir. He can be approached at his email: slalotra4729@gmail.com)
MLA Uri Seeks Smooth Muharram Arrangements
Srinagar, June, 19 : The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference North Zone President and MLA Uri Dr. Sajad Shafi Friday urged the administration to make comprehensive arrangements for mourners in Uri and other areas in North Kashmir during the holy month of Muharram-ul-Haram with special focus on the observance of Ashura. In a statement , Dr. Uri emphasized the need to ensure the availability of all essential facilities, including uninterrupted power and water supply, proper sanitation, healthcare services, traffic management, and other civic amenities along procession routes and at congregation points. He stressed that the administration should work in close coordination with local committees and stakeholders to facilitate the smooth and peaceful conduct of religious gatherings and processions. Dr. Sajjad said that adequate arrangements would help devotees observe the sacred occasion with dignity and without inconvenience. The MLA expressed hope that the concerned departments would take timely measures and ensure that all necessary preparations are put in place well ahead of the significant religious days of Muharram, particularly the Day of Ashura.
Apni Party Flags Development Gaps in Chanapora, Seeks Govt Action
Srinagar, June 19: Apni Party on Thursday expressed concern over what it described as inadequate development and official neglect in Srinagars Chanapora constituency and urged the government to address key public issues and infrastructure deficiencies. According to a party statement, the concerns were raised during a review meeting chaired by Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari at the party headquarters. The meeting was attended by senior leaders, ward presidents, block and zonal heads, booth representatives and other grassroots-level workers from the constituency. Participants reviewed the prevailing political situation and discussed public grievances, developmental concerns and organisational matters. During the meeting, party representatives highlighted shortcomings in healthcare infrastructure, including staff shortages at Chanapora Hospital and local dispensaries. Concerns were also raised over the poor condition of public parks, incomplete construction of marriage halls at Badshah Nagar and Natipora, and the closure of the multipurpose hall at Mehjoor Nagar. The participants also pointed to deteriorating roads and link roads, inadequate drainage facilities, insufficient ration allocation and the exclusion of eligible families from the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY). Issues relating to inadequate street lighting and drinking water supply in several localities also came up for discussion. Traffic congestion emerged as a major concern, with participants seeking an underpass near Hyderpora and expedited work on the proposed four-lane project along the Sanat NagarRawalporaRangreth corridor. They said recurring traffic jams were causing long delays for commuters, students and tourists. The meeting called for immediate government intervention to address these concerns and improve public service delivery in the constituency. The participants said that the period from 2014 to 2018 was a golden era for the constituency, marked by significant development and progress across various sectors.
Bukhari Targets Govt Over Public Issues, Welcomes New Entrants
Srinagar, June 19: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Friday criticised the elected government over what he described as its failure to address public issues and grievances, alleging that people across Jammu and Kashmir continue to face economic and social hardships. He made these remarks while addressing a party event at the party headquarters in Srinagar organised to welcome social and political activists from Baramulla and Sopore into the Apni Party fold. According to the party, Bukhari said the government had failed to adequately respond to concerns related to unemployment, inflation and basic public services. He alleged that inadequate supply of irrigation and drinking water, pending electricity dues and concerns of affected families were not receiving sufficient attention. Bukhari also raised concerns over shortages of professional staff and infrastructure in the education and healthcare sectors. Referring to healthcare services, he claimed that delays in payments under the Ayushman Bharat-SEHAT scheme had affected treatment availability at some private hospitals and dialysis centres. During the event, several individuals from Baramulla and Sopore formally joined the Apni Party. Party leaders welcomed the new entrants and expressed hope that the expansion would strengthen the partys outreach in north Kashmir.
Satish Sharma Asks Officers to Stay Accessible
Tours Handwara, holds public interaction programme Assures time-bound redress of public grievances Handwara, June 19: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports and Science & Technology, on Friday directed officers to remain accessible to the public and adopt a proactive approach in resolving grievances. He stressed the need to ensure timely delivery of government schemes and welfare programmes so that benefits reach every eligible beneficiary without delay. The Minister conducted an extensive visit to Handwara on Friday, where he chaired a public interaction programme aimed at strengthening the grassroots governance and ensuring direct engagement with the people. Rajya Sabha Member Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan accompanied the Minister during the visit. The interaction witnessed enthusiastic participation from the residents, public representatives, youth, members of civil society, trade bodies and local stakeholders, who apprised the Minister of various developmental needs and public service-related issues concerning the area. During the programme, several deputations and individuals highlighted a range of demands, including installation of solar lighting at the Higher Secondary School (HSS) Handwara playground, augmentation of public transport services through introduction of additional bus routes, improvement of road connectivity, strengthening of civic infrastructure, better sports facilities for youth and enhancement of other essential public amenities. Responding to the issues raised by every deputation, Satish Sharma reiterated the government's unwavering commitment towards transparent, accountable and people-centric governance. He said that direct interaction with the citizens enables the administration to better understand public aspirations and ensures timely resolution of issues affecting day-to-day life. The Minister assured the gathering that all genuine demands projected during the interaction programme would be taken up with the concerned departments and addressed on priority. He directed the officers present to maintain close coordination with local representatives and ensure prompt follow-up on issues requiring immediate attention. Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma expressed deep concern over the increasing menace of drug abuse (Nasha), describing it as one of the most serious social challenges confronting society today. He observed that substance abuse poses a grave threat to the future of the younger generation and adversely impacts families, communities and overall social harmony. The Minister called upon the parents, teachers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and youth to join hands in building a drug-free society. He stressed that the fight against drug abuse cannot be won by the government alone and requires sustained public participation, awareness and community vigilance. Highlighting the transformative role of sports, education and skill development in shaping the future of young people, the Minister urged the youth to channelise their energy towards constructive activities that contribute to their personal growth and nation-building. Satish Sharma reiterated that every region of Jammu and Kashmir deserves equitable development and assured the people that their aspirations would continue to receive focused attention. Later, the Minister visited Drugmulla, where he chaired a public darbar and interacted with the people from the area. The residents projected various issues relating to infrastructure development, public utilities, road connectivity, transport services and other local concerns. The Minister assured the people that all genuine issues would be resolved in a transparent and time-bound manner through close coordination with the concerned departments. Senior officers from the civil administration and line departments besides public representatives and local leaders were present during both programmes.
Need to Repatriate Teachers to Original Posts: Govt
Says Education cornerstone of social, economic development of society Distributes regularisation orders among 261 CPWs at Jammu Jammu, June 19: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo on Friday directed education authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards teacher attachments from far-flung areas to urban centres and ordered the immediate repatriation of such teachers to their original postings. She said the practice had created an artificial shortage of teaching staff in rural schools and stressed that children in villages should not suffer due to staff shortages. The shortage of teachers is manufactured because teachers avoid far-flung postings. The need of the hour is to send them back so that children in villages do not suffer, she asserted. The Minister also said that a transparent transfer policy for the School Education Department is under process, on the lines of the policy already framed for Higher Education department. The Minister distributed regularisation orders among 261 Contingency Paid Workers (CPWs) of the education department and also virtually laid the foundation stone of various educational infrastructure projects across multiple schools of Jammu division at Abhinav Theatre. Addressing the gathering, the Minister reiterated the Governments commitment to providing quality education, strengthening school infrastructure, and ensuring the welfare of employees associated with the education sector. She emphasized that education remains the cornerstone of social and economic development of society adding that various initiatives are being undertaken to transform the educational landscape of Jammu & Kashmir. While congratulating the regularised CPWs, the Minister appreciated their contribution towards the functioning of the education department. She adds that regularization of CPWs has been a long pending demand and the present Government has fulfilled its commitment under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to provide social security and dignity to these workers who have been serving the department for years. The Minister, on the occasion, also virtually laid the foundation stone for various infrastructure development works of School Education Department in Jammu Division like Elementary Hostel at Government Middle School Hiranagar, upgradation and modernization of Government Higher Secondary School Nagrota Gujroo, and construction of additional classrooms at Government Higher Secondary School Pallan. These initiatives are expected to significantly enhance educational facilities and create a more conducive learning environment for students in these areas. She also released several educational publications prepared by SCERT Jammu & Kashmir, aimed at enriching teaching-learning processes and supporting the implementation of contemporary educational reforms.
Israel, Hezbollah Reach Ceasefire as Lebanon Fighting Threatens Broader Iran Peace Deal
SRINAGAR: Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement agreed to a ceasefire in Lebanon on Friday following a sharp escalation in cross-border fighting that had threatened to derail a wider U.S.-Iran agreement aimed at ending months of regional conflict and reopening negotiations over Tehrans nuclear programme. According to reports from Reuters and The Associated Press, the []
Only 2 of 17 Budgam Blocks Conduct Door-to-Door Waste Collection
Budgam: Despite the government providing adequate vehicles and sanitation equipment for waste management in rural areas, only two out of the 17 Block Development Offices (BDOs) in Budgam district have implemented door-to-door waste collection services. An official from the Rural Development Department said that while all 17 blocks have been equipped with the necessary infrastructure, only SK Pora and BK Pora blocks are currently collecting household waste directly from residents in rural areas. SK Pora has successfully implemented door-to-door waste collection as it has its own designated dumping site. BK Pora is also carrying out waste collection from households and is presently using Srinagar's dumping site for waste disposal, the official said. The official said that the department has provided 51 waste collection hoppers across the district. According to the allocation plan, one hopper has been provided for every five villages. Blocks comprising more than 20 villages have been allotted up to four hoppers to ensure effective waste collection. We have already distributed 1,040 handcarts, 427 dustbins with a capacity of 1,100 litres, and 2,343 dustbins with a capacity of 500 litres across the district, official said In addition, the department has supplied 529 brush cutters to villages, which have been handed over to the respective blocks. These machines can be made available to local residents on a rental basis through Panchayat bodies. The Panchayat institutions can rent out the brush cutters to residents, which will not only help maintain cleanliness in rural areas but also generate revenue for the Panchayats, the official said.
GMC Anantnag Trains 120 Workers in CPR
Doctors Aims for One CPR-Trained Person Per Household Younus Ras Anantnag, June 19: A total of 120 participants, including faculty members, consultants, residents and support staff, were trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and Basic Life Support (BLS) during a three-day IAP CPR Provider Level Course that concluded at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag on Friday. The course was organised by the Department of Pediatrics, GMC Anantnag, under the aegis of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) ALS-BLS Group. According to a statement issued by GMC Anantnag, the institution will soon be designated as an Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) CPR Accredited Centre, enabling it to conduct regular Advanced and Basic Life Support training programmes for healthcare providers and the general public across the region. Principal GMC Anantnag Prof Dr Junaid S Wani said the accreditation would enable healthcare workers and trainees in the institution to access standardised lifesaving skills training locally and strengthen emergency care services. The course was coordinated by Dr Showkat Hussain Tali, Head of the Department of Pediatrics at GMC Anantnag and IAP ALS-BLS Coordinator for Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Tali said delays in providing basic resuscitation often cost lives. People often wait for a doctor to arrive or for an ambulance to come and save a life. However, studies show that we usually have only four to six minutes during which timely action can save a persons life, he said. Our objective is to ensure that every healthcare worker in every hospital is capable of providing at least Basic Life Support. Beyond that, it is our dream that there should not be a single household in Kashmir without at least one person trained to provide Basic Life Support, he added. The training was conducted by Dr Lokesh Tiwari, Professor and Head, Pediatric Pulmonology, AIIMS Rishikesh, and National Convener of the IAP ALS-BLS Group, along with a team of national faculty members. This period is known as the golden time. If chest compressions are administered correctly and without delay during this critical window, they can make the difference between life and death, Dr Tiwari said. The programme also saw the launch of an online Basic Life Support course portal for the general public of Jammu and Kashmir. The portal will provide training in CPR and choking management and is available through the GMC Anantnag Facebook page and will also be made available on the institutions official website. Dr Sumati Verma, Assistant Professor and Pediatric ICU Specialist at Dayanand Medical College, Ludhiana, said CPR training should reach more people across the country. When a person suddenly collapses, it is important to know how to immediately begin chest compressions and help revive them. This training is not limited to adults; it also covers infants and children. By learning these skills, lives can be saved regardless of age, she said. More people should learn, and in turn, train others, because the best way to learn is to teach, she added. According to the statement, potential instructors from GMC Anantnag were identified during the course and will undergo further training to qualify as National Trainers under IAP guidelines, creating a local pool of trainers for future BLS and ALS programmes.
DLSA Budgam to Hold Special Lok Adalat for Bank Recovery Cases
Budgam, June 19: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Budgam has announced a Special Lok Adalat for bank recovery cases on July 18. The session will be held alongside the already scheduled Special Lok Adalat for matters under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881. According to an official notification, the Special Lok Adalat aims to provide a platform for litigants, banks, financial institutions and other stakeholders to resolve bank recovery disputes through conciliation and mutual agreement. The initiative is intended to ensure the expeditious, cost-effective and amicable settlement of cases, thereby reducing the burden of prolonged litigation. The DLSA has appealed to all concerned banks, financial institutions, litigants and stakeholders interested in settling their disputes through the Special Lok Adalat to approach the concerned courts, the District Legal Services Authority, Budgam, or the respective Tehsil Legal Services Committees well in advance for completing the necessary formalities. DLSA that the primary objective of the Special Lok Adalat is to facilitate consensual dispute resolution and help reduce the pendency of bank recovery cases through amicable settlements. The authority has urged all eligible parties to take advantage of the opportunity and participate in the Lok Adalat for an efficient and mutually beneficial resolution of their disputes.
GMC Srinagar Suspends Bus Service, Staff Suffers
Bus Service Was a Lifeline Srinagar, Jun 19: Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar has suspended the Swaraj Mazda transport service for staff posted in its associated hospitals, even though the buses are yet to be officially condemned, leaving many employees struggling to commute to their workplaces. According to details available with the employees, three Swaraj Mazda mini buses of GMC Srinagar have been taken out of service. However, official records show that the registration certificates and fitness of the vehicles remain valid until October and November 2026, while their insurance and pollution under control (PUC) certificates are valid until 2027. The buses, which operated from different parts of Kashmir, were used to transport employees posted in the associated hospitals of GMC Srinagar. With the service now suspended, staff members say they have been left worried about their daily commute. The employees questioned the decision, alleging that the buses have not yet been formally condemned by the competent authority and could continue to be used until alternative arrangements are put in place. Staff members said the transport facility was a lifeline for many employees, particularly paramedical and support staff, who relied on the buses to attend duties at the associated hospitals. Many employees cannot afford the cost of daily private transport. The suspension of the bus service has increased both the financial burden and travel hardships, an employee said. The employees claimed that no alternative transport arrangement has been made following the suspension of the service. They said public transport options are limited and often unreliable, especially for staff required to report for early morning shifts and emergency duties. The employees urged the authorities to either restore the bus service or provide an alternative transportation mechanism to ensure uninterrupted attendance of healthcare workers. They warned that continued disruption in transportation could adversely affect staff punctuality and the overall functioning of healthcare services. Some employees also argued that the existing vehicles could be used for a few more years after necessary assessments, thereby saving public funds. Administrator GMC Srinagar, Gulzar Ahmad said that they have written to the RTO Kashmir on 01/06/2026 and sought permission to utilize the buses for a few more years. He also said that, however, they have not received any reply from the RTO Kashmir. However, RTO Kashmir did not respond to the repeated phone calls from Rising Kashmir.
Govt Sanctions Rs 2.94 Cr for Uris Cultural Heritage
Projects aimed at conservation, tourism promotion & improved visitor amenities Srinagar, June 19: In a significant move aimed at preserving the regions religious and cultural heritage, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved projects worth Rs 2.94 crore for the restoration, preservation and development of three prominent religious sites in Uri area of Baramulla district. The approvals have been accorded by the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K, under a heritage conservation initiative intended to improve infrastructure and safeguard historically significant sites. According to official orders issued by Director Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Kuldeep Krishan Sidha (JKAS), administrative approval has been granted for the development of amenities, including a park, at Baba Fareed shrine at Garkote, Uri, at an estimated cost of Rs 80 lakh. The project aims to enhance facilities for devotees and visitors while improving the overall aesthetic appeal of the revered shrine. Besides landscaping and park development, the project will include installation of information boards detailing the sites history in English, Hindi and Urdu, along with signboards and facilities for universal accessibility. In another major initiative, the government has sanctioned Rs 1.10 crore for the revival, restoration, preservation and maintenance of the historic Pandav Mandir at Lagama, Uri. The temple is considered an important cultural and religious landmark and the restoration project is expected to help preserve its architectural and historical significance for future generations. Similarly, administrative approval has been accorded for the revival, restoration, preservation and maintenance of Kali Mata Mandir at Lagama, Uri, at an estimated cost of Rs 1.04 crore. The project will focus on conserving the shrines heritage value while improving visitor amenities and infrastructure around the site. Officials said the projects are part of the governments broader efforts to protect heritage assets and promote religious tourism in border areas of north Kashmir. The approvals are subject to strict adherence to government procedures and guidelines, including compliance with General Financial Rules (GFR) 2017. Authorities have directed that all codal formalities and necessary clearances be completed before commencement of work. The executing agencies have been instructed to ensure timely tendering, maintain regular monitoring of project progress, and submit geo-tagged photographs before, during and after execution of the works. Monthly physical and financial progress reports will also be mandatory. Notably, all three projects will include accessibility measures such as ramps and specially designed washrooms for persons with disabilities, reflecting the governments emphasis on inclusive development. Officials have been directed to complete the tendering process within 14 days of the issuance of administrative approval orders.
Apple Drop Crisis Widens in Shopian, Action Initiated Against Dealers
Growers seek compensation as orchard losses mount Shopian, June 19: The crisis over premature fruit drop in South Kashmirs Shopian district has intensified, with more apple growers from several villages reporting extensive damage to orchards allegedly after spraying a fungicide containing Mancozeb. As concerns mount across Kashmirs key horticulture sector, the Enforcement Wing has initiated legal proceedings against two pesticide dealers in the District Court Shopian under provisions of the Insecticides Act, 1968. Initially confined to Sugoo, Sugu Handhama and Kachdoora villages, complaints have now emerged from adjoining areas, with orchardists claiming that fruit began dropping within days of using the chemical. Altaf Hussain, an affected grower, said large quantities of apples fell from trees shortly after the fungicide was sprayed. This is our yearly income. I informed the Horticulture Department and was asked to report the damage so the affected orchards could be assessed, he said. The incident has also triggered political reactions, with demands for accountability and urgent intervention. Senior Congress leader Advocate Owais Ah Khan termed the situation serious and alleged irregularities in the pesticide market affecting growers. He urged authorities to take immediate corrective measures, compensate affected farmers and prevent further distribution of the suspected chemical. A senior Enforcement Wing official in South Kashmir said complaints were continuing to emerge from additional villages and legal action had been initiated to protect the interests of orchardists. Based on preliminary findings, we have approached the District Court Shopian seeking sanction for prosecution against two local dealers under the relevant provisions of the Insecticides Act, the official said. The official added that action would also be taken against any company or dealer found responsible for losses suffered by farmers. Meanwhile, the Department of Horticulture has asked affected growers to formally report losses to block and district offices so that expert teams can inspect orchards and suggest measures to protect the remaining crop.
Woman Delivers Baby on Roadside After Hospital Discharge in North Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Serious questions have been raised over maternal healthcare services in north Kashmirs Bandipora district after a woman allegedly delivered her baby on a roadside shortly after being discharged from the District Hospital Bandipora. The woman, identified as Hafeeza Begum of the Chechinar area of Aloosa, was admitted to the hospital on June 17 after []
Fragile US-Iran truce holds as Israel-Hezbollah agree to ceasefire in Lebanon
Tel Aviv [Israel], June 19 : In a critical diplomatic development, a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah officially went into effect at 4:00 PM local time today, after Friday morning's flare-up. The accord, which aims to de-escalate recent intense hostilities along the northern border, was secured through rigorous international mediation. According to a senior US official speaking to The Times of Israel, the deal was successfully brokered by the United States and Qatar, who facilitated high-stakes communication with Israel and Iran, respectively. Additionally, the reports of a ceasefire were also confirmed by a senior Israeli official, according to Al Jazeera. Confirming the news, the official warned of repercussions if Hezbollah attacks Israel, stating, hen we are in wartime. He added that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) troops will remain stationed in the southern Lebanon buffer zone as a precautionary measure, Al Jazeera reported. The reported ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, which was brokered by the United States and Qatar and took effect on Friday, has effectively collapsed following a rapid escalation of violence. Despite international efforts to stabilise the situation, the truce has been marked by mutual accusations of violations and intense military exchanges. On Wednesday, the United States and Iran finalised a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) to end a nearly four-month-long conflict that had severely disrupted global energy supplies. The agreement was signed digitally by President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Versailles, France. Iran has committed to reopening the strait for commercial traffic. Transit capacity is expected to be restored within 30 days, with Iran agreeing to toll-free passage for the initial 60-day negotiation period. While the deal is in effect, scheduled in-person technical talks in Switzerland between the two nations were postponed as of Friday, amid ongoing regional tensions. On Friday, the Israeli Air Force continued its attacks on Hezbollah infrastructure with strikes in the Bekaa Valley. The Air Force struck a short time ago at Hezbollah terrorist organisation infrastructure in the Bekaa Valley, this in response to repeated violations of the ceasefire by the Hezbollah terrorist organisation, which continues to advance and carry out terror plots against IDF forces, the Israeli Air Force said. The Israeli forces allege Hezbollah had violated the ceasfire when a suspected drone strike killed an IDF tank battalion commander and three other soldiers in southern Lebanon. The slain officer is named as Lt. Col. Dor Gedalia Ben Simhon, 32, the commander of the 401st Armoured Brigade's 52nd Battalion, from Beit HaShita. Vowing to exact a very heavy price from Hezbollah, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of four Israeli soldiers, including a commander, who were killed in the heinous attack. I n a post on X, Netanyahu expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and extended wishes for the full recovery of those wounded. He denounced the attack as a latant violation of the ceasefire and confirmed that he instructed the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) to strike the militant group with full force. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the commander of the 52nd Armoured Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Dor Gadliah Ben Simhon, and of the three heroic fighters whose names have not yet been released, may their blood be avenged, and I wish a full recovery to the wounded in yesterday's exchange of fire. Following the heinous attack by Hezbollah, which was a blatant violation of the ceasefire, I instructed the IDF last night to strike Hezbollah with full force, he wrote in the post. The Prime Minister affirmed that the IDF successfully attacked more than 80 terrorist targets and eliminated dozens of militants in the wake of the breach. He added that the Israeli operations continued this morning with a strike on Hezbollah headquarters in the Bekaa Valley. The IDF attacked more than 80 terrorist targets and eliminated dozens of terrorists. Subsequently, the IDF struck Hezbollah headquarters in the Bekaa Valley this morning, he stated. Following a situation assessment with the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the General Staff, Netanyahu reiterated that Israel will not tolerate threats to its territory or military personnel. He reaffirmed that Israeli forces will maintain a presence in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect communities in northern Israel. The IDF will act to thwart any threat to our forces and our territory, the Prime Minister stated, underscoring that his directive to the military is clear and unwavering. This morning, I held a situation assessment with the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the General Staff. My directive is clear: Israel will not tolerate attacks on our soldiers or our territory, and it will exact a very heavy price from Hezbollah for these attacks. As I made unequivocally clear, including yesterday: Israel will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as required to protect the settlements in the north, he wrote. Israeli officials have made it clear that they retain full operational freedom in Lebanon and intend to maintain their presence in the southern buffer zone as a precautionary measure to protect northern Israeli communities. The National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir r issued an inflammatory statement on social media, asserting that all of Lebanon must burn in response to the loss of Israeli soldiers, emphasising that Israel's security concerns take precedence over international considerations. Gvir said in a post on X, For every tear of an Israeli mother, a thousand Lebanese mothers must weep. All of Lebanon must burn! With all due respect to the Americans, Israel must make it clear to the entire world that the blood of our sons and the security of our citizens are not forfeit. All of Lebanon must burn. Our supreme duty is to protect the citizens of Israel and the soldiers of the IDF, and this commitment takes precedence over every other consideration. Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee asserted that Hezbollah violated the agreement, noting in a post on X that the IDF responded with force to prevent the group from utilising its military capabilities. He affirmed that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) attacked over 100 Hezbollah targets and eliminated dozens of errorists in overnight strikes across parts of Lebanon. Hezbollah violated the ceasefire in an attempt to prevent our forces from completing the destruction of its capabilities, which it built over the years, and we responded to it forcefully. During the past night hours and until now, the Israel Defence Forces attacked more than 100 Hezbollah targets in various areas of Lebanon, including in the Bekaa Valley and Nabatieh. The Israel Defence Forces eliminated dozens of terrorists during these strikes. The Israel Defence Forces' forces enjoy full operational freedom to remove threats in every area where the Chief of the General Staff has instructed the provision of all capabilities to the forces in the field. We will not allow anyone to threaten us, he wrote in a post on X. The IDF reported that it has conducted extensive strikes against more than 100 Hezbollah targets across Lebanon, including in the Bekaa Valley and Nabatieh, since the night hours, eliminating dozens of errorists. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the intensity of the operation, stating, As I instructed - the IDF struck powerfully 150 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon and eliminated dozens of terrorists. Meanwhile, Times of Israel reported that the death toll in Lebanon due to the Israeli airstrikes since midnight rose to 47 people, with 97 people wounded, according to the latest updated toll from the Lebanese health ministry. The dead included at least seven women and two children. The developments come after the IDF carried out strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, saying they were a response to Hezbollah's epeated violations of the ceasefire. The Israeli forces alleged Hezbollah had violated the ceasfire when a suspected drone strike killed an IDF tank battalion commander and three other soldiers in southern Lebanon. The slain officer is named as Lt. Col. Dor Gedalia Ben Simhon, 32, the commander of the 401st Armored Brigade's 52nd Battalion, from Beit HaShita. Additionally, Times of Israel reported that in another Hezbollah attack on Thursday night five soldiers were wounded, including one seriously. According to the IDF, an explosive drone launched by Hezbollah struck forces of the Commando Brigade in Kfar Tebnit. Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the heinous attack and extended his condolences to the families of the fallen, vowing to exact a very heavy price from Hezbollah. Following a situation assessment with the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the General Staff, the Prime Minister reaffirmed that Israel will not tolerate threats to its territory or military personnel. He stated that the IDF will act to hwart any threat and will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect northern Israeli communities. The IDF will act to thwart any threat to our forces and our territory, the Prime Minister stated, underscoring that his directive to the military is clear and unwavering. This morning, I held a situation assessment with the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the General Staff. My directive is clear: Israel will not tolerate attacks on our soldiers or our territory, and it will exact a very heavy price from Hezbollah for these attacks. As I made unequivocally clear, including yesterday: Israel will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as required to protect the settlements in the north, he wrote. As of now, the ceasefire exists in name only. While international brokers continue to monitor the situation, both sides appear locked in a cycle of reactive violence. The IDF maintains that it is responding to persistent violations of the agreement, while the humanitarian toll in Lebanon continues to rise, leaving the region in a state of high alert and potential further escalation. Israel has issued a stern warning regarding the future of the truce. The Israeli official emphasised that the IDF remains in a state of high readiness and will not hesitate to strike back immediately if Hezbollah violates the terms of the agreement. (ANI)
Sakina Itoo Targets PDP, Says Mufti Enacted AFSPA in Jammu Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakina Masood Itoo on Friday said that late Mufti Muhammad Sayeed was the enactor of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). Addressing a gathering in Pulwama, Sakina said that Mufti Muhammad Sayeed was responsible for the imposition of AFSPA in Jammu and Kashmir. If AFSPA is continuing []
PM-VBRY: 1,522 Jammu Kashmir Employees, 304 Employers Receive Rs 26.16 Cr in Incentives
SRINAGAR: More than 1,500 employees and over 300 employers in Jammu and Kashmir received incentives amounting to over Rs 26 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY) as Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the nationwide disbursement programme on Friday. According to official figures, 1,522 employees in the Union Territory received incentives worth []
Jammu Kashmir Pushes Rs 3,000-Crore Flood Recovery Effort
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has received more than Rs 3,000 crore under two central funding mechanisms for restoration and reconstruction of infrastructure damaged in the 2025 floods and landslides, with over Rs 429 crore already released for execution of approved works, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo was informed on Friday. Chairing a high-level review meeting on []
Srinagar: June 19 : The Jammu and Kashmir Private Empanelled Hospitals and Dialysis Centres Association (JKPHDA) on Friday reiterated that its decision for mass de-empanelment from the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY / SEHAT Scheme will proceed from 1st July 2026, citing lack of concrete action from the administration despite repeated assurances. Since our press statement announcing mass de-empanelment from the scheme, we have received only verbal assurances from the Government. There have been no concrete steps to streamline the scheme or resolve long-pending issues, the Association said. The spokesperson stated, We remain committed to Prime Minister's Ayushman Bharat scheme. However, it is unfortunate that since March 2024 the scheme is in its most non-performing state. We are forced to continue with our mass de-empanelment as no concrete steps are being taken to streamline claim processing, package rates, and authorizations. Every year we have to fight to get our genuine dues released. Each time we receive only assurances but no systemic fix. Hospitals are running on financial stress while providing cashless treatment to patients, JKPHDA added. The Association highlighted that dues worth several hundred crores are pending with the State Health Agency (SHA), causing severe working capital issues for small and mid-sized hospitals. This directly impacts their ability to purchase medicines, consumables, and maintain staff. In the proposed mass de empanelment of Hospitals, Maintenance Haemodialysis patients will be the worst hit. Dialysis is life-saving and is needed 3 times a week, thousands of poor patients under SEHAT will lose cashless access and be forced to pay Rs 8,00010,000 per month from their own pockets. JKPHDA maintains that it supports the vision of Ayushman Bharat but requests immediate steps on pending payments, rationalization of package rates, and faster pre-authorization to make the scheme sustainable. We do not want to stop treating poor patients, but we cannot continue services without a financially viable system, the statement concluded. We urge Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Health Minister Sakeena Itoo to personally intervene and appeal them to chair the Governing Council meeting on 23rd June so that to ensure the scheme is streamlined.
NTA strengthens security measures ahead of NEET-UG re-exam on June 21
New Delhi [India], June 19 : The National Testing Agency (NTA) on Friday put in place extensive security and logistical arrangements for the smooth and transparent conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21. The examination will be conducted in pen-and-paper mode from 2 pm to 5:15 pm across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad. More than 22.79 lakh candidates are expected to appear for the test. According to the NTA, a comprehensive security framework has been implemented to ensure the integrity of the examination process. Confidential examination materials are being transported under strict security protocols through GPS-enabled vehicles accompanied by police escorts. CCTV surveillance, Aadhaar-based biometric authentication and real-time monitoring systems have also been deployed at examination centres. More than two lakh personnel, including city coordinators, observers, centre superintendents, invigilators, district administration officials and police personnel, have been mobilised for the conduct of the examination. The agency said candidates facing biometric authentication issues due to technical glitches, poor fingerprint quality, connectivity problems or physical conditions will not be denied entry. Such candidates will be allowed to appear after undergoing manual identity verification and submitting the required undertaking. To ensure candidates' convenience, examination centres have been equipped with adequate drinking water, sanitation facilities, electricity backup, fans and medical support. Additional biometric devices and trained staff have also been deployed to streamline verification procedures. The NTA has advised candidates to reach their examination centres between 11 am and 1:30 pm, noting that entry gates will close at 1:30 pm. Candidates have also been urged to verify the exact location of their examination centres through their admit cards and avoid relying solely on navigation applications. Meanwhile, amid a surge of posts and videos circulating on social media claiming that the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination paper has been leaked, National Testing Agency (NTA) Director General Abhishek Singh has dismissed the claims as fake and asserted that question papers remain secure. Nearly 23 lakh candidates are set to appear for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination on Sunday, June 21. In recent days, several social media users and anxious students have shared images and videos purportedly showing question papers, prompting widespread concern and calls for clarification from the NTA. Responding to queries from ANI, Singh said, They are fake, and question papers are safe. The NTA, along with multiple government agencies, is working around the clock to counter fraudsters and scammers who are using fake question papers to deceive students and parents. As part of these efforts, the government has temporarily restricted access to Telegram, which was being misused in some cases to run such scams. (ANI)
Statehood Restoration a Constitutional Right, Not a Favour: NC MP Ramzan
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) Additional General Secretary and Member of Parliament Chaudhary Mohammad Ramzan on Friday said the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir was the constitutional and democratic right of its people and not a favour from anyone. Addressing party leaders, legislators, office-bearers and workers from various areas at the []
20 petitions submitted seeking disqualification of rebel MPs: TMCs Abhishek Banerjee
NEW DELHI: Trinamool Congress leader in Lok Sabha Abhishek Banerjee on Friday met with Speaker Om Birla and submitted 20 petitions against its 20 rebel MPs, seeking their disqualification. Talking to the media after meeting the speaker, Banerjee said the rebel MPs, who have claimed to join the lesser-known Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), []
Wet Spell to Continue Till June 22, Says MeT Director
SRINAGAR: Fresh rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms lashed several parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, extending what has already been an unusually wet June, with the Meteorological Department forecasting the prevailing weather system to continue till June 22. Director, Meteorological Department, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said intermittent rain, thunderstorms, gusty winds and isolated hailstorms are likely []
PM Modi disburses incentives worth Rs 2,400 crore under Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana
New Delhi [India], June 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed beneficiaries, industry representatives and stakeholders associated with the Prime Minister Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana and said aspirations, skills and potential of the country's youth shape the path to a Viksit Bharat. PM Modi disbursed incentives worth around Rs 2,400 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), a flagship employment-linked incentive scheme. This incentive has supported the creation of 15 lakh employment opportunities across the country, a release said. Addressing the gathering shortly after returning from his visit to France and Slovakia, where he participated in the G-7 Summit and engaged with world leaders, the Prime Minister noted that India's youth are receiving unprecedented recognition globally for their talent, skills, and potential. He remarked that the world increasingly acknowledges the capabilities of young Indians and emphasized that the Government is committed to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to transform their potential into success. Prime Minister Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana is much more than an employment scheme. It is an initiative designed to strengthen the aspirations of young people entering their first jobs while creating a robust bridge between industry and the workforce, he said. He observed that while many schemes are typically focused either on employees or employers, this programme simultaneously supports both. The Government stands with young people beginning their professional journeys and encourages institutions that create new employment opportunities, he said. PM Modi said that nearly 70 lakh new jobs have been created so far and an equal number of first-time employees have been brought under the ambit of social security. He noted that close to 20 lakh young people have completed six months in their first jobs, while around 10 lakh beneficiaries have already received incentives under the scheme upon completing this milestone. More than Rs 2,000 crore has been directly transferred to beneficiaries' bank accounts. Describing this support as more than financial assistance, PM Modi said it reflects the nation's recognition of the hard work of its youth and its confidence in their future. The Prime Minister also expressed satisfaction over the participation of institutions and enterprises that have generated employment opportunities under the scheme. Employment generation gains momentum when the Government, industry, and youth work together. The initiative is a reflection of a new India where young people receive opportunities, industries receive encouragement, and employment generation becomes a national mission, PM Modi noted. Highlighting India's demographic strength, the Prime Minister observed that India is among the youngest nations in the world and that the journey towards becoming a developed nation is intrinsically linked to the aspirations, skills, and capabilities of its youth. He reiterated the Government's commitment to ensuring that every young Indian is able to advance according to his or her talent and ambition. PM Modi emphasized that over the past twelve years, the Government has worked to strengthen every pathway to employment. Significant efforts have been made across sectors ranging from infrastructure and innovation to manufacturing, the digital economy, space technology, and startups. Initiatives such as Make in India, Vocal for Local, efforts to take local products to global markets, and Mission Manufacturing have expanded avenues for both employment and self-employment, PM Modi noted. PM Modi highlighted that Government investment of more than Rs 12 lakh crore in infrastructure is creating a strong foundation for employment generation. He also noted that assistance exceeding Rs 33 lakh crore under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana has enabled millions of young people to establish their own enterprises. Referring to women's empowerment, he stated that more than 10 crore women are associated with Self-Help Groups, while over 3 crore women have emerged as Lakhpati Didis. He added that initiatives such as PM SVANidhi and PM Vishwakarma have strengthened the livelihoods of small entrepreneurs, street vendors, and traditional artisans. The Prime Minister cited the rapidly expanding drone sector as an example of how emerging technologies are creating new employment opportunities. Speaking about the transformative impact of the digital economy, PM Modi highlighted the emergence of the gig economy, platform-based services, content creation, and technology-driven enterprises as important sources of employment and income. Once unimaginable opportunities have now become viable livelihoods for millions of young Indians. The same transformation is evident in India's vibrant startup ecosystem, which continues to foster innovation, create jobs, and contribute to the country's economic growth, Shri Modi underscored. The Prime Minister highlighted the remarkable growth of India's startup ecosystem over the past decade. He noted that while the country once had only around 500 startups, today more than 200,000 registered startups are operating across nearly every district of the nation. The global community is increasingly optimistic about India's future and has immense confidence in the capabilities of its young population, PM Modi said. Referring to his recent visit to France, he recalled the successful organisation of the India Innovates event, which brought together Indian startups and global investors in emerging sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, space technology, green energy, and biotechnology. He remarked that such engagements demonstrate the growing international interest in India's innovation ecosystem and its expanding role in shaping the technologies of the future. The Prime Minister stated that India is actively entering into new trade agreements with countries around the world. These agreements, he noted, are opening new markets for Indian industries and creating fresh opportunities for Indian professionals. While the world is preparing for the economy of the future, India is preparing to lead it. As nations increasingly move towards future technologies, India is focused on equipping its youth with the skills and capabilities required to thrive in a rapidly evolving world, he emphasised. The Prime Minister also drew attention to a significant transformation in India's employment ecosystem over the past twelve years, one that often receives less attention but remains critical to the journey towards a developed India. The Government's focus has been on linking employment with security, dignity, and social protection. Technology is being leveraged to modernize the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), simplify pension systems, and expand access to health insurance and affordable healthcare for millions of workers. The same philosophy guides labour reforms undertaken by the Government, he noted. The Prime Minister also highlighted the growing contribution of women to India's economic and social development. Reforms relating to night-shift employment, the promotion of work-from-home opportunities, and the strengthening of workplace safety mechanisms are intended to enhance women's participation in the workforce further, he said. Addressing representatives from industry, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of skilled talent, innovation, and quality in determining economic success in the twenty-first century. He observed that countries possessing these strengths will attract the greatest opportunities, and asserted that India has unprecedented potential in all three areas. The world is increasingly opening its doors to India and free trade agreements are concluded with nearly forty countries. These agreements are creating new markets, expanding access to global consumers, and generating fresh opportunities for brands built under the Make in India initiative, PM Modi remarked. The Prime Minister emphasised that when a nation adopts a global outlook, the boundaries of success naturally expand. He stated that in the twenty-first century, training, mentorship, and internships are no longer optional but essential components of a future-ready workforce. The journey towards a developed India will not be driven by investment alone. Rather, it will be powered by the strength of talent, skills, and innovation. Quality must remain the defining benchmark across every sphere of national development. To compete and succeed on the global stage, India must consistently meet and surpass the highest international standards, he said He observed that the world today places great expectations on India. Expressing confidence in the country's youth, he stated that young Indians will not only meet these expectations but exceed them through their determination, creativity, and capabilities. PM Modi described this confidence as the true strength of a Viksit Bharat and a reflection of the immense potential of India's youth power. He also encouraged young people not to be discouraged by setbacks or failures. Every failure carries valuable lessons and contributes to personal growth and future success. The true measure of a youthful mind lies in its ability to continuously learn from challenges, transform dreams into achievements, and create new aspirations after every accomplishment, PM Modi said. (ANI)
KPDCL Announces Scheduled Power Shutdown in Several Areas
SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has announced scheduled power shutdowns in parts of Srinagar and south Kashmir later this month to facilitate maintenance works on various 33 KV transmission lines. According to the Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL, power supply to JAKLI Beacon will remain affected from 11 am to 2 pm on []
New Delhi [India], June 19 : External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday said the Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0 has improved global mobility for India as part of the vision of a Viksit Bharat. He said a passport is not just a travel document, but a key tool for economic mobility, international trade, and national identity. Addressing the Annual Regional Passport Officers' Conference in the national capital, EAM Jaishankar said, Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0 actually has truly redefined global mobility for Viksit Bharat. A passport is not merely a booklet of pages. It is a powerful tool, a vital tool, of economic mobility, international trade and national identity. Jaishankar said that Indian talent is increasingly being valued across the world, noting strong appreciation during his recent visits to Europe, including the G7, France, and Slovakia. He said the Indian passport is gaining respect and trust internationally as India's foreign policy projects the country as a Vishwa Bandhu, and added that obtaining a passport should remain a simple right for citizens rather than a difficult process. I have just come back today, accompanying the Prime Minister on a visit to Europe, to the G7, to France, to Slovakia. And one of the recurring themes here has been how much they value Indian talent. The appreciation for Indian talent is really growing in leaps and bounds, he said. As our foreign policy establishes India as a Vishwa Bandhu, the Indian passport is treated with respect and with confidence internationally. Our responsibility is to ensure that the process of obtaining this document remains a matter of right, not as a struggle, EAM Jaishankar further added. Further, Jaishankar said India's Passport Seva Programme has expanded significantly, improving access to passport services across the country through a wider network of service centres. He said the number of Passport Seva Kendras has grown from 77 in 2014 to 545 today, reaching even remote areas, and described it as a successful partnership between the Ministry of External Affairs and the Department of Posts. In a post on X, EAM Jaishankar wrote, Delighted to address the annual Regional Passport Officers' Conference in New Delhi today. From 77 Passport Seva Kendras in 2014 to 545 today, Bharat's Passport Service Programme has reached the remotest places of the nation. It is a model partnership between the Ministry of External Affairs and the Department of Posts. He added that discussions at the Annual Regional Passport Officers' Conference focused on improving service delivery through regular public feedback, and said efficient passport issuance remains a key enabler for building a global workforce for a global workplace. The deliberations focused on how to improve service delivery. This is best done by constantly taking feedback from the public. We are preparing a global workforce for a global workplace. The efficient and seamless issuance of passports is a strong enabler. Convey my best wishes to all recipients of Passport Seva Awards, the post read. (ANI)
SKUAST-K Scholar Secures International Grant for Research on Endangered Kashmir Fish
SRINAGAR: A PhD scholar from Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has secured an international research grant of 6,500 US Dollars from the United States-based Wild Animal Initiative for a study on the critically endangered Kashmir Loach, an endemic fish species found in the Valley. The grant has been awarded to []
Septuagenarian Injured in Road Accident Dies at SMHS Hospital
SRINAGAR: A retired headmaster who sustained critical injuries in a road accident near the Security Line, Batmaloo, in Srinagar on Wednesday has succumbed to his injuries at SMHS Hospital, officials said. The deceased has been identified as Sharief-ud-Din Wani (72), son of Ghulam Hassan Wani and a resident of MIG Colony, Bemina. Officials said Wani []
ACB Files Chargesheet Against Fire Services Official in Bribery Case
SRINAGAR: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Friday said it has filed a chargesheet before the Special Anti-Corruption Court, Baramulla, against a Fire and Emergency Services official accused of demanding and accepting a bribe for issuing a Fire Safety No Objection Certificate (NOC) in Sopore. A spokesperson said the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Jammu and Kashmir, has []
EOW Kashmir Held Five Accused in Baramulla Migrant Land Fraud Case; House Searched in Budgam
Srinagar, June 19: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of the Crime Branch J&K conducted a house search in Banit area of Beerwah, Budgam district, in connection with a major migrant land fraud case registered at Police Station EOW Kashmir. According to officials, the case relates to an alleged conspiracy involving fraudulent attempts to sell migrant land measuring 14 kanals and 03 marlas located at Goshbugh Pattan in Baramulla district. The accused allegedly used fake agreements and other fraudulent means to facilitate the sale without the consent of the actual landowner. During the course of the investigation, the Crime Branch found the involvement of five accused persons who allegedly duped the complainant of crores of rupees on the pretext of selling the land. Investigators believe the fraud was carried out through criminal conspiracy and misrepresentation. The house search in Budgam was conducted as part of the ongoing investigation aimed at collecting further evidence in the case. Officials said that further investigation is underway to uncover all aspects of the fraud and identify any additional individuals involved. Meanwhile, the Crime Branch has urged the public to remain vigilant against economic fraudsters and promptly report any such incidents to the Senior Superintendent of Police, EOW Kashmir. Victims of economic fraud can also submit complaints through the official email: sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in .
CS pushes undertaking of disaster reconstruction projects worth 3000 Cr across J&K
SRINAGAR, JUNE 19: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a meeting of all the concerned to assess the progress achieved in identification, approval and execution of infrastructure restoration and reconstruction projects being undertaken under the Disaster Component of the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) and the Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA)-based Recovery and Reconstruction package sanctioned by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in the aftermath of the devastating floods and landslides of 2025. The meeting besides the ACS, Finance and ACS, PWD was attended by Principal Secretary, DMRR&R; Commissioner Secretary, YS&S; MD, JKPDC; DG, A&T; DG, Resources; DG, Budget and other concerned officers from the relevant Departments. While reviewing the implementation progress, the Chief Secretary stressed the need for timely completion of all restoration works and directed the departments to significantly expedite execution so that expenditure under SASCI is fully incurred within the prescribed timelines. He emphasized that all departments must adhere to the sunset provisions of the scheme and ensure completion of works within the stipulated period. The Chief Secretary directed the departments to immediately finalize and submit all pending permanent restoration projects proposed under the PDNA framework. He also asked the departments to submit additional restoration proposals amounting to approximately Rs 232 Cr to the Finance Department for further consideration. To ensure transparency and prevent duplication of expenditure, the Chief Secretary instructed all departments of urnish certificates confirming that the projects proposed under SASCI and PDNA are not being funded through any other scheme or source.He made it clear that no financial claims shall be processed without such certification. During the meeting, the ACS Finance Department, Shailendra Kumar presented a comprehensive overview of the financial assistance received, departmental allocations, project portfolios and implementation status under both the funding frameworks aimed at rebuilding damaged public infrastructure and enhancing resilience against future disasters. The ACS divulged that J&K has been allocated an additional assistance of Rs 1,431 Cr under the Disaster Component of SASCI, specifically meant for restoration and reconstruction of infrastructure damaged during natural calamities as well as for undertaking mitigation measures to reduce future disaster risks. Based on the recommendations of the high level committee constituted here, it was revealed that the highest allocation of Rs 860 Cr was earmarked for the Public Works Department, followed by Rs 315 Cr for the Jal Shakti Department, Rs 173 Cr for the Power Development Department, Rs 51 crore for the Agriculture Production Department and Rs 32 Cr for the Youth Services and Sports Department. The meeting was further informed that the Sub-Committee of the National Executive Committee (SC-NEC) of the Ministry of Home Affairs has approved Rs 1,579.09 Cr for Recovery and Reconstruction activities based on the PDNA report prepared after the floods and landslides of 2025. Out of the approved assistance, the Central share amounts to Rs 1,421.12 Cr, while the UT share is Rs 157.91 crore. It was informed that the approved assistance spans multiple sectors including housing, education, health, public infrastructure, roads, drinking water supply, sanitation, power, irrigation, agriculture, tourism, horticulture and environmental restoration. The largest share of assistance has been earmarked for infrastructure sectors, particularly roads, buildings, power systems and water supply networks, which suffered extensive damage during the disasters. Reviewing the departmental proposals, the Chief Secretary was informed that following reconciliation with the PDNA framework and elimination of overlapping works, project proposals amounting to nearly Rs 1,196 Cr have been finalized under SASCI, while work plans worth more than Rs 1,025 Cr have already been uploaded on the BEAMS platform. The Finance Department has released over Rs 429 Cr to various departments for execution of approved works. Reiterating the Government's commitment towards resilient reconstruction and disaster preparedness, the Chief Secretary emphasized that the restoration initiatives should not only rebuild damaged assets but also strengthen public infrastructure to withstand future disasters, thereby safeguarding lives, livelihoods and essential services across Jammu and Kashmir.
60 Kashmir Schools to Remain Closed for Classwork Ahead of NEET Re-Test
SRINAGAR: The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) on Friday ordered the suspension of classwork in 60 schools across the Kashmir Valley on June 20 (Saturday) ahead of the NEET-2026 examination scheduled for June 21 (Sunday). According to a government order, classwork shall remain suspended in all schools designated as NEET examination centres to facilitate []
Five Accused Named in Alleged Migrant Land Sale Scam
SRINAGAR: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of the Crime Branch, Jammu and Kashmir, has booked five persons in connection with an alleged land fraud involving migrant property in Baramulla district and conducted a search operation at a residence in Budgam as part of the ongoing investigation. According to officials, the case pertains to an []
SC refuses to accord urgent hearing on pleas related to NEET-UG 2026
The Supreme Court has refused to urgently hear pleas challenging the NEET-UG 2026 re-test scheduled for June 21. A bench stated that all NEET matters will be heard by Justice Narasimha's bench in July. Petitions highlight concerns about inadequate preparation time and mental distress among aspirants due to the exam's cancellation and subsequent re-scheduling.
Kargil CEC Faces Uncertain No-Confidence Vote as Leh Remains Without Elected Hill Council
SRINAGAR: Uncertainty continues to surround the fate of a no-confidence motion moved against Chairman-cum-Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil, Dr Mohammad Zaffar Akhoon, even as he remains in office and continues to oversee council affairs. Official sources said the no-confidence motion, signed by 16 councillors, was forwarded by []
EOW Kashmir books five in Baramulla migrant land fraud case
Srinagar: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir on Friday said it has booked five accused in a major migrant land fraud case involving 14 kanals and 3 marlas of land in Baramulla. In a statement, a spokesperson said the Economic Offences Wing Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K conducted a house search at Banit Beerwah, District []
SAHC Issues Notices to 4 Jammu Kashmir Paramedical Institutes Over Unauthorised Course
SRINAGAR: The State Allied and Healthcare Council (SAHC), Jammu and Kashmir, has issued show-cause notices to four private paramedical institutions for allegedly conducting and facilitating Allied and Healthcare courses without obtaining the requisite permission, recognition and approval from the competent authorities. According to official notices issued by the Council, the institutions served with notices include []
ACB files chargesheet against fire services official in NOC bribery case
Srinagar: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Friday said it has filed a chargesheet before the Special Anti-Corruption Court, Baramulla, against a Fire & Emergency Services official accused of demanding and accepting a bribe for issuing a Fire Safety No Objection Certificate (NOC) in Sopore. In a statement ,a spokesperson said the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Jammu []
Jammu Kashmir: Two Shops Gutted in Blaze, Losses Estimated in Lakhs
SRINAGAR: A major fire broke out in two shops near the Kalika Temple area of Poonch town, causing extensive damage and reducing goods worth several lakhs of rupees to ashes, officials and local residents said on Friday. The blaze erupted in the commercial area and rapidly engulfed the two establishments, sending plumes of smoke into []
