NEW DELHI, May 17: Income Tax India urges people to file their Income Tax Return (ITR) by sharing a post on microblogging site X. Income Tax India said that online filing and Excel utilities for ITR-1 and ITR-4 for AY2026-27 are now available on e-filing portal. Form 16/16A generated and downloaded through the TRACES portal alone constitute a valid and authentic TDS certificate, Income Tax India wrote on X. Taxpayers should ensure that TDS certificates are relied upon while filing [] The post Online filing and Excel utilities for ITR-1 and ITR-4 for AY2026-27 now available on e-filing portal: Income Tax India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Indias Rs 1.7 lakh crore fuel crisis may have found an unlikely fix water
NEW DELHI, May 17: As India battles soaring energy import costs and a weakening rupee amid global oil turmoil, a Monaco-based fuel technology company says it may have found an answer hiding in plain sight: water. FOWE Eco Solutions, through its patented Cavitech fuel emulsion technology, claims industries can slash fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent, reduce harmful emissions dramatically, and improve equipment performance all without modifying engines or shutting plants down. The pitch comes at a [] The post Indias Rs 1.7 lakh crore fuel crisis may have found an unlikely fix water appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
UCIL to extract uranium from Hindustan Coppers tailings, to set up recovery plant in Jharkhand: CMD
NEW DELHI, May 17: Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL), a public sector company under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), will set up a recovery plant in Jharkhand to extract uranium from tailings of state-owned Hindustan Copper, a top official said on Sunday. The move would help in augmenting domestic supplies of the strategic mineral used in nuclear power and defence applications. In an interview with PTI, Hindustan Copper Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Sanjiv Kumar Singh said that [] The post UCIL to extract uranium from Hindustan Coppers tailings, to set up recovery plant in Jharkhand: CMD appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Hero MotoCorp lines up Rs 1,500 cr capex for FY27 to double scooter production capacity
NEW DELHI, May 17: Two-wheeler market leader Hero MotoCorp has earmarked Rs 1,500 crore capex for FY27 to double its scooter production capacity, according to its CEO Harshavardhan Chitale. The company has also committed over Rs 700 crore of investment in building a global parts centre in South of India, he told analysts. We are investing in capacity expansion, and we have committed over Rs 1,500 crore of capex in FY27. And this capex is going to expand our capacity [] The post Hero MotoCorp lines up Rs 1,500 cr capex for FY27 to double scooter production capacity appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
FPIs pull out Rs 27,000 cr in May; 2026 outflows hit Rs 2.2 lakh cr-mark
NEW DELHI, May 17: Foreign investors continued to pare their exposure to Indian equities, withdrawing Rs 27,048 crore so far this month, indicating cautiousness among global investors amid an evolving global macroeconomic and geopolitical environment. With this, total outflows by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) from the equity market have reached Rs 2.2 lakh crore in 2026, higher than the Rs 1.66 lakh crore pulled out during the entire 2025, according to data with the NSDL. FPIs were net sellers in [] The post FPIs pull out Rs 27,000 cr in May; 2026 outflows hit Rs 2.2 lakh cr-mark appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
North America, NE Asia, Latin America account for over 35 pc of Indias exports in FY26
NEW DELHI, May 17: North America, North-East Asia, and Latin America together accounted for over 35 per cent of Indias merchandise exports, which stood at USD 441.78 billion in 2025-26, reflecting a gradual shift towards a more diversified and resilient global trade structure, according to commerce ministry data. Exports to East Africa increased 13.7 per cent to USD 12.6 billion, accounting for 2.9 per cent of Indias exports, while North Africa rose 14.8 per cent to USD 8 billion with [] The post North America, NE Asia, Latin America account for over 35 pc of Indias exports in FY26 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Gautam Adani performs bhoomi pujan for Adani Centre for Eye Diseases in Bihars Saran
Saran (Bihar), May 17: Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani on Sunday performed Bhoomi Pujan for the launch of Adani Centre for Eye Diseases (ACE), in association with the Akhand Jyoti Eye Hospital in Mastichak area of Bihars Saran district. Adani, accompanied by Priti Adani, chairperson, Adani Foundation, said the ACE will be a major effort to provide accessible and affordable eye care to those in need. Prior to this, the chairman of the Adani group and Priti Adani reached Gayatri [] The post Gautam Adani performs bhoomi pujan for Adani Centre for Eye Diseases in Bihars Saran appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Leh, May 17: The Union Territory of Ladakh is all set to undergo one of the biggest reforms in its history, with Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena, approving the long-pending wage rationalisation for daily wagers, part-time and seasonal/need-based workers, engaged by the Ladakh Administration. Thousands of wage earners, who have been working for as low as Rs 300 to Rs 500 per month for the past several years, will benefit from this move. Many of these workers had been working [] The post LG Orders Major Wage Rationalisation Reform For Daily Wagers, Part-Time And Seasonal Workers Engaged By UT Admin appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Great Nicobar project a recipe for ecological disaster: Ramesh to Defence minister
NEW DELHI, May 17:Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Sunday wrote to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on the Great Nicobar Island Project, saying the project in its present shape and form is a recipe for ecological disaster. Congress leaders have been flagging concerns over the project, claiming it would have a bearing on the ecology and tribal rights in the region. In his letter to the minister, he said while there can be no two opinions on the need to strengthen [] The post Great Nicobar project a recipe for ecological disaster: Ramesh to Defence minister appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Nepals Mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa Climbs Mt Everest For 32nd Time, Beats Own Record
KATHAMANDU, May 17: Nepals mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa made history on Sunday by breaking his own world record for the highest number of ascents of Mt. Everest as he scaled the worlds highest peak for the 32nd time. The 56-year-old veteran climber reached the 8,849-metre peak at 10:12 am on Sunday, according to the Department of Tourism. He was leading an expedition operated by 14 Peaks Expedition, it said. The successful ascent was confirmed by the departments field office stationed [] The post Nepals Mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa Climbs Mt Everest For 32nd Time, Beats Own Record appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Police Intensifies Anti-Narcotics Drive, Arrests Alleged Drug Peddler In J&Ks Anantnag
SRINAGAR, May 17: Police in Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district on Sunday arrested an alleged drug peddler and recovered over 100 grams of charas from his possession as part of an intensified crackdown on narcotics across the district, officials said. Anantnag Police continues crackdown on drug peddlers. During naka checking at Tulkhan Crossing, Bijbehara, one drug peddler was arrested and 102 grams of charas concealed in corn husk recovered. FIR registered, Anantnag police posted on X. Police said a separate [] The post Police Intensifies Anti-Narcotics Drive, Arrests Alleged Drug Peddler In J&Ks Anantnag appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
President Murmu Promulgates Ordinance To Increase Supreme Court Judge Strength By Four
NEW DELHI, May 17: President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday has promulgated an ordinance increasing the number of judges in the Supreme Court to 37 excluding the Chief Justice of India (CJI). The gazette notification, dated May 16, stated the Parliament is not in session and the President is satisfied that the circumstances exist which render it necessary for her to take immediate action. The ordinance is called the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Ordinance, 2026. The ordinance was [] The post President Murmu Promulgates Ordinance To Increase Supreme Court Judge Strength By Four appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CNG Prices Hiked By Re 1, Second Time In A Week
NEW DELHI, May 17: CNG prices were hiked by Re 1 per kg on Sunday, the second increase in rates in less than a week. CNG now costs Rs 80.09 per kg in the national capital, according to Indraprastha Gas Ltd, the countrys biggest city gas firm. The rate hike comes within days of Rs 2 per kg increase in rates on Thursday. Rates of gas piped to household kitchens, called piped natural gas, however, remain unchanged. IGL said, The [] The post CNG Prices Hiked By Re 1, Second Time In A Week appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
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Fire Breaks Out In Coach Of Delhi-Bound Rajdhani Express In MPs Ratlam; No Casualties
Ratlam/Kota, May 17: A fire broke out in an AC coach of a Rajdhani Express heading from Thiruvananthapuram to Delhi in Madhya Pradeshs Ratlam district on Sunday morning, railway officials said. No casualties have been reported in the blaze that erupted at 5.15 am in the B-1 coach, carrying 68 passengers, of the Thiruvananthapuram-Hazrat Nizamuddin Rajdhani Express (train no. 12431), senior railways commercial manager Sourbah Jain said. The incident occurred between Vikramgarh Alot and Lunirichha stations under the Kota division [] The post Fire Breaks Out In Coach Of Delhi-Bound Rajdhani Express In MPs Ratlam; No Casualties appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Has Development Erased the Soul of the Baramulla Bypass?
by Rameez Bhat Baramulla bypass transformation under Project Beacon improves functionality but erases ecological, aesthetic, and emotional value, raising concerns over identity, planning sensitivity, and sustainable development choices. There was a time when the Baramulla bypass did not merely take you somewhere; it made you feel something along the way. It was not just a []
Punjab Carpenter Found Dead in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: A non-local man was found dead in the Nishat area of Srinagar on Sunday, officials said. An official said that the deceased has been identified as Malkeet Singh, a resident of Amritsar, Punjab, presently residing in Nishat, Srinagar. He was around 25 years old and was working as a carpenter in the Valley, the []
ashmirs costly rail link must reduce dependence on fragile highways, prioritising sustainable use, ecological protection, and expanded passenger and freight services for resilient connectivity. The rail connectivity between Srinagar and Jammu marks a structural shift in Jammu and Kashmirs economic geography. Built at a cost exceeding Rs 43,000 crore, the UdhampurSrinagarBaramulla Rail Link is among []
New York , May 17 : Indias Permanent Representative to the United Nations Parvathaneni Harish outlined Indias approach towards tackling the ongoing energy and fertiliser crisis amid the conflict in West Asia, stressing the need for a combination of short-term and long-term measures backed by international cooperatioHarish said he participated in the Special Meeting of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UNECOSOC) on safeguarding energy and supply flows. He emphasised that a mix of immediate and structural measures, along with international cooperation, would be essential to effectively respond to the crisis. Harish also reiterated Indias concerns over disruptions to maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Shared Indias approach to the recent energy and fertiliser crisis in light of the West Asia conflict at the Special Meeting of the UNECOSOC on Safeguarding energy and supply flows. A combination of short-term and structural measures alongside international cooperation are essential to respond to the crisis. Reiterated that targeting of commercial shipping, endangering civilian crew and impeding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, are unacceptable. International law in this regard must be fully respected, Harish wrote on X This comes after Iran announced a professional mechanism to regulate maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz through a designated route, which will be unveiled soon. In a post on X, Iranian Parliaments NSC chief Ebrahim Azizi said that the proposed mechanism has been developed within the framework of Irans national sovereignty and with the aim of ensuring the security of international trade. He further stated that only commercial vessels and parties cooperating with Iran would be permitted to benefit from the mechanism. Azizi also said that the proposed route would remain closed to operators associated with the so-called freedom project. Iran, within the framework of its national sovereignty and the guarantee of international trade security, has prepared a professional mechanism to manage traffic in the Strait of Hormuz along a designated route, which will be unveiled soon. In this process, only commercial vessels and parties cooperating with Iran will benefit from it. The necessary fees will be collected for the specialized services provided under this mechanism. This route will remain closed to the operators of the so-called freedom project, said the X post from Azizi. Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump warned of very bad time if any peace deal to end the West Asia crisis is not reached, Al Jazeera reported, while quoting local French broadcaster BFMTV. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that the United States remains the primary barrier to peace in West Asia. Araghchi claimed that after more than a month of failed military objectives, the US attempted to pivot toward dialogue, a move met with deep-seated scepticism in Tehran. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi following a meeting of the BRICS Foreign Ministers, the Iranian Foreign Minister laid bare the trust deficit defining the current geopolitical standoff.Now, after 40 days of war, when the US became hopeless of achieving any goal in their aggression against Iran, they offered negotiation We have no trust in Americans This is the main obstacle in the way of any diplomatic effort. We have every reason not to trust Americans, while they have no reason not to trust us, he stated. (ANI)
North Kashmir: Residential House Gutted in Fire Incident
SRINAGAR: A single-storey residential house was completely gutted in a fire incident in the Pattan area of north Kashmirs Baramulla district on Saturday evening. Reports said the blaze broke out in the residential structure and spread rapidly, engulfing the entire house before it could be brought under control. The property, belonging to Ab Ahad Tantry []
Census 2027: DC Gbal appeals residents to participate in Self-Enumeration Drive
Process to begin from May 17; residents urged to complete online survey from home Ganderbal, May 16: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore on Saturday appealed all residents of Ganderbal to actively participate in the self-enumeration process for Census 2027, which is scheduled to begin from tomorrow, May 17 in Ganderbal district. While addressing a press conference here, the DC said that self-enumeration is the first phase of Census 2027 and provides citizens an opportunity to fill census details themselves from the comfort of their homes. He informed that the process can be completed through the official website,https://se.census.gov.in, and said that tutorials and flow charts explaining the process will also be shared for public convenience. Highlighting the benefits of self-enumeration, the DC said that once the process is completed, a unique code will be generated which should be noted and saved by the residents. He further said that during the houselisting exercise starting from June 1, enumerators visiting households can use this unique code, eliminating the need for asking the same questions again and thereby saving time for both citizens and enumerators. The DC urged all residents to participate in large numbers and make the Census 2027 exercise smooth and successful.
NIT Sgr concludes lecture series on Himalayan Engineering Challenges
Srinagar, May 16: A two-day lecture series on Engineering in the Himalayas: Advances in Rock Mechanics and Ground Improvement concluded successfully at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar. The programme was organised by the Department of Civil Engineering, NIT Srinagar, in collaboration with the Indian Geotechnical Society Srinagar Chapter. The event was inaugurated by Prof. F.A. Mir, Chairman of IGS Srinagar Chapter; Prof. J.A. Bhat, Head of the Civil Engineering Department at NIT Srinagar; and Prof. B.A. Mir, Honorary Secretary of the IGS Srinagar Chapter. Faculty members, including Prof. Syed Kaiser Bukhari and Dr. R.P. Shukla, along with event coordinators Dr. Majid Hussain and Dr. Falak Zahoor, were also present. While Undergraduate and postgraduate engineering students participated enthusiastically in the lecture series. The programme featured lectures by eminent experts in geotechnical and infrastructure engineering, including Prof. K. Seshagiri Rao of Indian Institute of Technology Delhi and Prof. Arif Ali Baig of NIT Warangal. Their sessions highlighted emerging challenges and innovative solutions in sustainable Himalayan infrastructure development. Prof. Arif Ali Baig delivered a lecture on the growing significance of polymer biogeotechnics and its applications in sustainable environmental engineering. Stressing the need for eco-friendly ground improvement techniques, he encouraged students to actively engage in research in this evolving field. His insights and technical expertise inspired young researchers to contribute towards sustainable engineering solutions. Prof. K. Seshagiri Rao, who described Jammu and Kashmir as his second home, shared his experiences from landmark Himalayan infrastructure projects, including the Chenab Bridge and Anji Khad Bridge under the USBRL railway project. He discussed the geological, social, and technical challenges faced during the construction of these mega projects and highlighted the collaborative role of researchers and agencies in overcoming them. In another lecture, Prof. Rao elaborated on tunnelling in complex Himalayan terrain, drawing examples from the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel and the Pir Panjal Tunnel. His sessions provided students with valuable insights into the innovation, engineering expertise, and perseverance required to execute large-scale infrastructure projects in challenging mountain conditions. The lecture series successfully bridged the gap between academic research and practical engineering, leaving participants motivated to contribute towards sustainable and resilient infrastructure development in the Himalayan region.
BIS organizes consumer awareness program in Shopian
Shopian, May 16: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India, organized a Consumer Awareness Programme at Town Hall, Municipal Office Shopian, in collaboration with the Municipal Committee Shopian, to educate consumers about their rights, product quality standards, and recent quality control order initiatives. The programme witnessed active participation from members of civil society, traders, local consumers, students, and other stakeholders. During the event, Sh. Saaqib Rahi, Scientist-C and Deputy Director, BIS-JKBO, delivered a detailed presentation highlighting various BIS initiatives aimed at consumer protection and quality assurance. The main objective of the programme was to create awareness among consumers regarding BIS certification marks and quality standards applicable to manufactured products. BIS officials emphasized the importance of certification marks such as the ISI Mark, Hallmarking for jewellery, and the CRS Mark, which enable consumers to identify safe, reliable, and quality-assured products. Addressing the gathering, Ashish Kumar Dwivedi, Standard Promotion Officer, BIS-JKBO, informed participants about various quality standards and mandatory certification requirements prescribed under BIS regulations. He urged consumers to remain vigilant while purchasing products and to always verify the authenticity of certification marks before making any purchase. A special demonstration of the BIS Care App was also conducted during the programme. Officials explained how consumers can use the mobile application to verify whether a product is genuine or counterfeit. Syed Sanjeeda, Resource Person, demonstrated the features of the BIS Care App and informed participants that consumers can also register grievances and complaints through the application against fake or substandard products available in the market. Participants appreciated the initiative and stated that the programme provided valuable information regarding the identification of genuine and duplicate products. They emphasized the need for conducting such awareness programmes regularly so that consumers in both rural and urban areas can make informed purchasing decisions and gain access to quality-assured products. On the occasion, BIS officials specifically advised consumers to check for the ISI Mark while purchasing products such as geysers, helmets, gas stoves, and pressure cookers, warning that products without proper certification may pose serious safety risks. The programme concluded with BIS officials reiterating their commitment towards consumer protection and urging citizens to make full use of the BIS Care App for product verification and grievance redressal. The event was attended by President Traders Union Shopian, Mushtaq Ahmad, along with President of Civil Society Shopian, Mansoor Magray, besides prominent citizens and participants from different sections of society.
J&KCEGA applauds govts institutional reforms in Jal Shakti Dept
Srinagar, May 16: The Jammu & Kashmir Civil Engineers Gazetted Association (J&KCEGA) has expressed gratitude to Government of Jammu & Kashmir for the landmark reorganisation of Jal Shakti Department, describing it as a progressive and institutionally sound reform that will strengthen the departmental structure and improve public service delivery across the UT. The Association particularly thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Minister for Jal Shakti Javed Ahmad Rana, and Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department Shaleen Kabra for their leadership and constructive intervention in ensuring that the restructuring process was carried out without disturbing the existing top administrative hierarchy. J&KCEGA said the reorganisation addresses several long-pending structural and functional requirements of the department and reflects the Governments commitment towards strengthening the engineering and technical framework of the Jal Shakti sector. The Association welcomed the creation of the post of Secretary Technical, establishment of a separate Design, Inspection & Quality (DIQ) wing, creation of Superintending Engineer offices for Hydraulic Circle Jammu-II and Hydraulic Circle Bandipora, and formation of six new divisions including Hydraulic Division Gandoh, Hydraulic Division Gurez, Hydraulic Division Tangdar, PHE Division Mendhar, and two Water Quality & Monitoring Divisions for Jammu and Kashmir. It also appreciated the restructuring of Mechanical Sub-Divisions, creation of 43 posts through rationalisation, encadrement of 10 posts, reassignment of 137 posts, and revision in Deputation Reserve and Leave Reserve provisions, terming these measures important for better manpower planning, field implementation and institutional efficiency. The Association further expressed satisfaction over the continued regularisation process in the Jal Shakti Department, while observing that a similar process is still missing in the R&B Department. It hoped the Government would take steps to address the issue in the interest of engineers and administrative efficiency.
BOPEE conducts CET for Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Courses 2026-27
Srinagar, May 16: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of Professional Entrance Examinations (J&K BOPEE) on Saturday conducted the Common Entrance Test (CET) for Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Courses-2026 for the academic session 2026-27 at designated Centres within Jammu and Kashmir. The test was conducted at the Government Women College M.A. Road, Srinagar Centre in the Kashmir division and Government SPMR Commerce College Centre in Jammu division, with 1161 appeared in the examination out of 1238 applicants. To ensure smooth conduct of the Entrance Test, arrangements were made in collaboration with the respective institution/college administration and law enforcement agencies, under the guidance of Professor Minu Mahajan, Chairperson, J&K BOPEE. During the examination, under the keen oversight of the staff members from the respective institutions/colleges, no untoward or unfair incident was reported. The Chairperson, along with the members, the Secretary, the Controller of Examinations and officials of the J&K BOPEE actively monitored conduct of the Entrance Test at Srinagar and Jammu. They thanked the staff members of the respective institutions/Colleges and the staff deployed under the overall supervision of Deputy Commissioners in the respective District Headquarters for smooth conduct of the test.
Historic Eidgah Srinagar comes alive with sacrificial animals ahead of Eid-ul-Adha
Buyers say prices higher this year but sacrifice important religious duty Traders optimistic business will improve as Eid draws nearer Umar Raina Srinagar, May 16: The historic Eidgah Srinagar has once again come alive with the arrival of sacrificial animals ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, as traders and buyers gather at one of Kashmirs largest and oldest livestock marketplaces. With the beginning of the month of Zil Hajj, the traditional market has started witnessing increasing activity, with people from Srinagar, Ganderbal and nearby areas visiting the grounds to purchase sacrificial animals, particularly sheep and goats, for the upcoming festival. Hundreds of sheep and goats, including both local and non-local breeds, have already been brought to the sprawling Eidgah grounds, while traders remain hopeful that business will pick up in the coming days as Eid approaches. Residents said the market traditionally gains momentum after the start of Zil Hajj, as families begin preparations for Eid-ul-Adha and look for suitable animals for sacrifice. We came early to survey the market and compare prices. Usually, many families prefer to buy their sacrificial animals after Zil Hajj begins, and the rush increases with every passing day, said Mohammad Sultan, a buyer from Srinagar. Shahid Ahmad from Nawakadal said, We visit Eidgah every year because it is one of the most trusted and oldest places for purchasing sacrificial animals. There are many options here, from local breeds to animals brought from outside Kashmir. Livestock sellers, however, said that while trading has begun, the turnout of buyers remains lower compared to previous years, largely due to rising prices and changing market conditions. We have started selling sacrificial sheep, but compared to previous years, the number of buyers is still low. People are coming, but many are hesitant because prices have gone up, said Asif Ahmad, a livestock trader from Bemina. Another seller, Sultan Ahmad from Shopian, who has been associated with the Eidgah livestock market for over three decades, said, We have been selling sacrificial sheep here for the last 30 years. Eidgah is one of the oldest and most important markets before Eid-ul-Adha, and thousands of animals are sold here every year. Gulzar Ahmad, dealing in non-local sheep breeds, said demand for premium animals is also expected to rise in the coming days. Customers are asking about larger and healthier animals, but many are waiting until the final days before making a purchase, he said. One young buyer browsing through the market said, Prices are definitely higher this year, but Eid sacrifice is an important religious duty for us. We are looking for a good sheep within our budget. Another elderly resident from Eidgah, Mumtaz Mohammad, added, The Eidgah market is not just a place to buy animalsit is a tradition. Every year, coming here reminds us of the spirit and preparations of Eid-ul-Adha. Traders remain optimistic that business will improve significantly as Eid draws nearer, with thousands of sacrificial sheep and goats expected to be sold in the days ahead. Every year, the Eidgah grounds transform into a vibrant seasonal marketplace, deeply rooted in Kashmirs religious and cultural traditions, bringing together buyers and sellers in preparation for one of the most important festivals in the Islamic calendar.
Sgrs 78.50 km of roads to be macadamised this season
Estimated cost Rs 31.40 cr; 7 Assembly Constituencies to get facelift Ovaise Gul Srinagar, May 16: Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir,bracesfor themacadamisation process as the plan approved by theRoads andBuildingDepartment (R&B) hasbeenfinalised andforwardedto the Chief Engineer Central Division. According to the details available with Rising Kashmir,a total of78.50 km of road across seven Assembly Constituenciesis slated to be macadamised in Srinagarthis season at an estimated cost of Rs 3140.00 lakh (Rs 31.40 crore) with a proposed allocation of Rs 2,219.50 lakh (Rs 22.19 crore). The seven Assembly segments include Central Shalteng, Eidgah, Habba Kadal, Hazratbal, Khanyar, Lal Chowk and Zadibal. The figures reveal that a total of 11.50 km of roadsare to be macadamisedsoon in Central Shalteng at an estimated cost of Rs 460.00 lakh, with the proposed allocation of Rs 322.00 lakh. Similarly, 11 km of roads each will bemacadamised inEidgah and Hazratbal constituencies at an estimated cost of Rs 440.00 lakh withtheproposed allocation of Rs308.00 lakheach. The plan reveals that 11.50 km of roads in Khanyar and Zadibal constituencieseach willbe macadamised. The data shows that the estimated cost for the macadamisation in both constituencies is Rs 460.00 lakh each, with a proposed allocation of Rs 322.00 lakh each. A total of 11.25 km of roads are slated to be macadamised in Habba Kadal constituency at an estimated cost of Rs 450.00 lakh, with the proposed allocation of Rs 315.00 lakh. Lal Chowk has the lowest share compared to other segments, with only 10.75 km of roads, the plan shows, mentioning that the roads in this constituency will be macadamised at the cost of Rs 430.00 lakh with the proposed allocation of Rs 322.50 lakh.
Drug peddlers properties worth Rs 6 crore attached in Sgr
RK News Service Srinagar, May 16: Continuing its sustained crackdown against drug trafficking under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Srinagar Police have attached three immovable properties along with one vehicle belonging to three notorious drug peddlers under the provisions of the NDPS Act, with a total estimated value of approximately Rs 6 crore. The action was carried out by Police Station Khanyar under Section 68-F of the NDPS Act against Nazir Ahmad Mir @ Nazir Lashkari (son of Abdul Wahab Mir, resident of Koolipora Khanyar). A double-storeyed residential house along with eight shops constructed on 4.5 marlas of land at Koolipora, Khanyar, valued at approximately Rs 3.2 crore, were attached in connection with FIR No. 08/2020 under Sections 8/20 NDPS Act, a police spokesperson said in a statement. Similarly, the movable and immovable properties of Gulzar Ahmad Mir (son of Abdul Rahman Mir, resident of Baghi Roop Singh, Miskeen Bagh, Khanyar), were also attached. These include one Scorpio vehicle (JK01AW-8898) valued at approximately Rs 20 lakh, along with immovable property comprising 7 marlas of land and a temporary structure valued at approximately Rs 1.8 crore. The attachment was carried in connection with FIR No. 08/2026 under Sections 8/21/29 NDPS Act. A single-storeyed residential house constructed on 9 marlas of land, valued at approximately Rs 80 lakh of Zahid Manzoor Rather (son of Manzoor Ahmad Rather, resident of Lone Mohalla, Nowpora Khanyar) was also attached in connection with FIR No. 96/2020 under Sections 8/20 NDPS Act. The attached properties have been identified as illegally acquired assets generated through proceeds of narcotics trafficking and drug peddling. J&K Police reiterated its commitment to eradicating the drug menace and continuing stringent action against drug peddlers and their illegally acquired assets as part of the ongoing campaign, the spokesperson said.
Police attach third HM-linked offenders property in 3 days
Accused operating from Pakistan RK News Service Srinagar, May 16: Continuing its sustained crackdown against the terror ecosystem and anti-national elements, Sopore Police on Saturdayattachedimmovable property of a proclaimed offender involved in Case FIR No. 02/2008 registered at Police Station Panzalla under Section 2/3 of the E&IMCO Act. This marks the third such attachment action within three days. The proclaimed offender has been identified as Rasid-ud-Din Qureshi, son of Abdul Kabir Qureshi, a resident of Nadihal Rafiabad. Investigations revealed that the accusedhadillegally crossedover toPakistan-occupied Kashmirfor obtainingillegal arms and ammunition training and is linked with the banned terrorist organisation Hizbul Mujahideen.Heispresentlyoperating in coordination with the Hizbul Mujahideen terror network from Pakistan, a police spokesperson said in a statement. The attachment proceedings were carried out in collaboration with the Revenue Departmentin respect ofland measuring two kanals at Lashdaej Nadihal, valued in lakhs. The spokesperson said the accused hadbeen evadinglegal proceedings for a prolonged period despite sustained efforts and was accordingly declared a Proclaimed Offender by the court under Section 88 CrPC. Subsequently, in compliance with court orders, attachment proceedings were executed afterdue verification throughrevenue records andlocal enquiry, in the presence ofRevenue officials and independentwitnesses, after observing all codal formalities. This is the third such attachment action carried out by Sopore Police within the last three days as part of the intensified crackdown on terror handlers, absconders, and anti-national elements linked with terrorist organisations. These actions form part of the continuous and sustained efforts of J&K Police to dismantle the terror ecosystem, disrupt terror networks, choke support structures, and take stringent legal action against individuals involved in activities prejudicialto the security and integrity of the nation,the spokesperson said. J&K Police reiterated their firm commitment to continue lawful and strict action against individuals involved in terrorism, terror financing, harbouring, or supporting terrorist organisations in any manner.
Census 2027 Self-Enumeration process in J&K begins
Residents can complete process via mobile, laptop till May 31 Arif Rashid Srinagar, May 16: The self-enumeration process for Census 2027 in Jammu and Kashmir will commence from May 17 and continuetillMay 31,2026, with authorities stating that thefacilityhas been introducedto enable residents to complete the processconveniently throughmobile phones, tablets, laptops, or desktop computers. Officialssaidparticipation in the self-enumeration exercise is mandatory and appealed to all residents to complete the process within the stipulatedperiod, adding that theinitiative aims to reduce time and effort while ensuring quicker verification during visits by Census staff.Greater public participation, officials said,would help make the Census process more efficient, accurate, and streamlined. According to officials, the first phase of Census 2027, comprising the House Listing and Housing Census, will be conducted across Jammu and Kashmir from June 1 to June 30, 2026. During this period, Enumerators and Supervisors will visit households to collect information through a questionnaire consisting of 33 questions. The second phase,relating toPopulation Enumeration, will be conducted separately for snow-bound and non-snow-bound areas. In snow-bound areas of Jammu and Kashmir, the Population Enumeration is scheduled for September 2026, while in non-snow-bound areas, the exercise will be carried out in February 2027. Authorities have urged citizens to extend full cooperation to Enumerators and Supervisors during Census operations and provide accurate and complete information to ensure the successful conduct of the national exercise.
UGC-NET June 2026 registration closes May 20
No corrections permitted after fee payment: NTA Arif Rashid Srinagar, May 16: The National Testing Agency (NTA)hasissued an advisory for aspirants regarding the completion of the application process for the UGC-NET June 2026 examination by May20 this month. Director of Examinations, Col B. Vijay Kumar, said the registration portal for the UGC-NET June 2026 examination will close on May 20, 2026, at 11:50 PM. He urged candidates who have not yet completed the process toensure that theyfill out and submit the online application form along with the prescribed examinationfee within the stipulateddeadline. Candidates have also been advised to download and retain the confirmation page for future reference. The Director of Examinations advised candidates to carefully verify all details entered in the online application form beforemaking the fee payment,asno corrections will be permitted later. Particular attention should be paid to details such as the candidates name, fathers and mothers names, social category, PwD status, difficulty in writing status, scribe requirement status, subject opted for, and preferred examination city choices, Kumar said.Candidates should ensure that all information is correct and completebeforefinal submission of the application form. The agency reiterated that only those candidates who successfully pay the examination fee will be considered to have completed the application process. Candidates have also been advised to regularly visit the official NTA website, https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in, for the latest updates, notices, and information regarding the UGC-NET June 2026 examination.
Half the harvest gone, Kashmir cherries still rule countrys markets
Fetch Rs 200 per kg despite 50% loss due to erratic weather 300 tonnes to be dispatched next week 25 tonnes to reach Jammu daily Italian variety premium Growers urge crop insurance Abid Bashir Srinagar, May 16: Even as Kashmirs cherry growers grapple with nearly 50 per cent losses due to prolonged cold temperatures and erratic weather conditions, the Valleys famed ruby-red fruit continues to command premium prices in markets across the country, bringing cautious optimism to thousands of orchardists dependent on the crop. With the cherry season gathering momentum, nearly 300 tonnes of premium cherries are expected to be dispatched from Kashmir to various Indian markets beginning next weekthroughrail and road networks. Chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Association, Bashir Ahmad Basheer,said two railway bogies have already been booked from Srinagar to Jammu to facilitate large-scale transportation of cherries from the Valley. From next week, nearly 25 tonnes of cherries will reach Jammu daily through railway services. Besides rail shipments, truckloads of cherries have already started moving to markets in Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Punjab and several other cities, he said. Basheer said Kashmiri cherries continue to enjoy strong demandin marketsacross the country despite the significant decline in production this year.Unfavourable weather conditions, especially prolonged cold during the flowering stage,badlyaffected fruit setting and reduced production by almost 50 per cent. However, the quality of the available produce is excellent, and the demand in markets is very encouraging, he added. Kashmir annually produces around 12,000 to 14,000 metric tonnes of cherries and remains Indias leading cherry-producing region. The fruit is cultivated extensively in Srinagar, Tangmarg, Shopian, Ganderbal, Baramulla and several other areas of the Valley. Growers said Kashmir is known for multiple cherry varieties that fetch premium prices due to their taste, texture and appearance. Among them, the premium Italian variety has emerged as the costliest this season, fetching nearly Rs 200 per kilogram in wholesale markets because of its larger size, sweetness, attractive colour and longer shelf life. The locally popular Awal Number or Number 1 variety is selling at around Rs 100 per kilogram, while the glossy and soft Makhmali variety is fetching between Rs 90 and Rs 100 per kilogram. Buyers from outside Kashmir specifically demand Italian cherries because of their superior quality and shine. Even though the production is less this year, the market rates are comparatively better, said Abdul Rashid Mir, a cherry grower from Tangmarg. Farmers across Kashmir said changing weather patterns are increasingly emerging as a major threat to horticulture, especially delicate crops like cherries and strawberries. This year, the crop suffered because of unusual cold conditions during the flowering stage. Many orchards witnessed poor fruit setting, while continuous rains in some areas further damaged the fruit, said Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, a grower from Shopian. He said the situation has become highly unpredictable over the last few years.Earlier, farmers could estimate the crop well in advance, but now sudden frost, untimely rains, hailstorms and temperature fluctuations aredamaging orchards repeatedly,Bhat added. Another orchardist from Ganderbal, Fayaz Ahmad, said cherries remain one of the most important early-season cash crops for farmers before the apple harvesting season begins later in the year. Cherry gives quick returns to growers. The fruit is harvested in the morning, packed immediately and dispatched to outside markets within hours. Even with lower production, farmers are hopeful that better prices will compensate for some of the losses, he said. Fruit traders at Srinagars Parimpora Mandi said faster rail connectivity ishelping improve transportation and reducedelays for the highly perishable fruit. Cherries are extremely delicate and require quick transportation. Rail movement is proving beneficial because it allows the fruit to reach Jammu and other markets faster and in better condition, said a fruit dealer at the mandi. Growers, however, expressed concern over forecasts of fresh rains in the coming days, saying any further wet weather could affect harvesting and damage the remaining crop. If the rains continue during the peak harvesting period, the fruit can crack and lose quality. Farmers are already under stress because production has fallen sharply this year, said Mushtaq Ahmad, another grower from Baramulla. Horticulture experts and growers have urged the government to strengthen cold storage facilities, introduce climate-resilient farming practices and expand crop insurance schemes to help orchardists cope with mounting weather-related losses. Despite the difficult season, Kashmiri cherries have once again started making their way to markets across India, with traders and consumers eagerly awaiting the Valleys prized summer fruit known for its sweetness, colour and unmatched taste.
Pahalgam accident: LG expresses grief
RK News Service Srinagar, May 16: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday expressed deep anguish and grief over the loss of lives in a tragic road accident in Aru, Pahalgam. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said, I am deeply anguished by the road accident in Aru, Pahalgam, in which two tourists from Gujarat lost their lives and few others are injured. Directed senior officials to provide all possible support. My condolences to bereaved families. Praying for speedy recovery of the injured.
J&K Lok Bhavan celebrates Sikkim Statehood Day
LG Sinha hails Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat spirit RK News Service Srinagar, May 16: Jammu Kashmir Lok Bhavan celebrated the Statehood Day of Sikkim on Saturday, bringing together students, security personnel, and people of Sikkim living in the Union Territory, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extending heartiest greetings to the people of Sikkim on the occasion. Sikkim, the sacred land of Guru Padmasambhava, shines like a radiant star among Himalayan states and UTs. It is recognised globally as a model of organic farming, peace and spirituality. The incredible linguistic diversity and rich cultural heritage distinguish Sikkim on the world stage, the LG said. Sinha said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sikkim is scaling new heights of development and stands at the forefront of the nations vision. He added that the emotional bond shared among all Indian states and Union Territories is deeply rooted in the core values of unity, compassion, and brotherhood. The Lieutenant Governor said the landmark July 2022 J&K-Sikkim horticulture agreement has yielded groundbreaking results in fostering interaction among youth, farmers, and researchers from both regions. I regard this thriving collaboration as a prime example of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. This spirit of mutual partnership will prove instrumental in realizing our collective resolve for a Viksit Bharat. May Sikkim, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and remarkable achievements in sustainable development and organic farming, continue to scale new heights of growth and development. I pray for the well-being and prosperity of all its citizens, he said.
SKUAST-K under SREP drives social change through school mobilisation
Srinagar, May 16:Continuing its grassroots outreach under the newly launched Student Rural Exploration Program (SREP), faculty, staff, and students of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir today visited dozens of adopted villages across the valley, shifting the focus toward driving holistic social change and institutional mobilisation. Building upon the framework of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP-20), the universitys multidisciplinary cohorts moved beyond traditional agricultural fields to engage deeply with rural educational institutions, marking a significant step in bridging the gap between scientific academia and rural society. As part of the days intensive outreach, SKUAST-K teams visited several government schools to conduct institutional sensitization and social mobilisation campaigns. Recognising that young minds are the most effective vectors for societal transformation, the university experts, scientists, and scholars educated school children, teachers, and local youth about various government welfare schemes, health and hygiene practices, and sustainable livelihood initiatives beneficial to rural society. These interactive sessions were designed to empower the village communities with vital knowledge on nutrition, climate resilience, and modern rural entrepreneurship opportunities from an early age. In a practical demonstration of its commitment to the rural ecosystem, SKUAST-K also took direct action to improve the infrastructure and aesthetic environment of the visited government schools. Understanding that school gardens serve as vital interactive learning spaces for children, the university teams actively helped multiple institutions restore, design, and maintain their campus lawns and gardens. To ensure the sustainability of these green spaces, the visiting teams were aided with essential gardening tools and maintenance equipment, working hand-in-hand with children to maintain the school gardens. Commending the teams for their expanded role in rural development, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai while visiting some of the schools in adopted villages, said that the true measure of agricultural education lies in its ability to uplift the entire rural ecosystem. He emphasised that by entering government schools and upgrading their learning environments, the university is not just gathering data, but actively seeding the minds of the next generation with scientific awareness and environmental stewardship, thereby transforming students into true agents of societal change. The SREP, which deploys structured teams of undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD scholars across 300 villages, has now firmly established itself as a fortnightly fixture on the SKUAST-K academic calendar. By documenting local institutional needs alongside agricultural challenges, the university continues to foster a generation of socially empathetic professionals while driving immediate, tangible development at the grassroots level.
Netherlands hands back Chola dynasty copper plates to India
NEW DELHI, May 16 : The Netherlands on Saturday handed back 11th-century Chola dynasty copper plates to India, in an event attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Dutch counterpart Rob Jetten, signifying the strengthening of ties between the two countries. PM Modi, who arrived in the Netherlands on Friday after a brief stopover in the UAE on the second leg of his five-nation tour, described the occasion as a joyous moment for every Indian. India has been pursuing [] The post Netherlands hands back Chola dynasty copper plates to India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Jasrotia meets Dr Jitendra, seeks early approval of Rs 571.83 cr Ravi Project
Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, May 16: In a significant initiative aimed at accelerating developmental works in his constituency and adjoining areas of Kathua district, BJP MLA from Jasrota constituency, Rajiv Jasrotia on Saturday met Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Dr Jitendra Singh here, today and projected several key demands related to irrigation infrastructure, education and public welfare for favourable consideration. During the meeting, Jasrotia submitted detailed representation to the Union Minister and sought his intervention for early approval and [] The post Jasrotia meets Dr Jitendra, seeks early approval of Rs 571.83 cr Ravi Project appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Indian mango varieties now available at retail chains in Greater Seattle
WASHINGTON, May 16: The sweet aroma of the Kesar variety of Indian mangoes is wafting through select stores in Seattle, tickling the taste buds of food connoisseurs. A year-long initiative by the Indian Consulate General in Seattle paved the way for several varieties of Indian mangoes to be available at retail chains such as Costco. The story of Indian mangoes in the US dates back to 2006, when then US President George W Bush cleared the way for shipping the [] The post Indian mango varieties now available at retail chains in Greater Seattle appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Op Sindoor: Ek Medal Mila, Maa
Brig Dr Vijay Sagar Dheman iijsajammu@gmail.com Going through hell Keep going, read a piece of desk graffiti in one of the classrooms at the National Defence Academy. I am sure its still there, the etchings deepened by those who came later. Tired fingers seeking solace in tradition, in the words of a nameless cadet, and in the knowledge that those who came before sweated, bled, cried and triumphed the same way. In many ways, these five words bring out the [] The post Op Sindoor: Ek Medal Mila, Maa appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Chique opens first store in Jammu, offering up to 50% off
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 16: Jammus fashion landscape gets a stylish new addition with the launch of the first-ever store of Chique at Gole Market in Jammu, here today. Known for its elegant Indo-western fashion and contemporary womens wear, Chique brings a premium collection of party wear, evening wear and occasion outfits for modern women of Jammu. Adding to the excitement of the launch, the showroom is currently offering up to 50% off on most articles, giving shoppers an opportunity [] The post Chique opens first store in Jammu, offering up to 50% off appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K Bank strengthens vehicle finance partnership with Jammus automobile dealers
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 16: J&K Bank here today organised an interaction programme with leading automobile dealers of Jammu to strengthen its vehicle finance business and enhance coordination with dealership partners across the region. The interaction was attended by General Manager (Retail, Agriculture and MSME) Rakesh Magotra, General Manager and Divisional Head (Jammu) Ashok Gupta and senior officers of the Bank, while the delegation of dealers was led by Chairperson of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) Sanjay Aggarwal. [] The post J&K Bank strengthens vehicle finance partnership with Jammus automobile dealers appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Omar Govt clears Rs 72 cr Used Water Management Projects for Baramulla, Rajouri
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 16: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved Used Water Management Projects for Baramulla and Rajouri at an estimated cost of Rs 37.96 crore and Rs 34.43 crore respectively, aimed at strengthening sanitation infrastructure and addressing wastewater management challenges in the two urban areas. The projects, cleared by Omar Abdullah led Government, are expected to ensure scientific treatment of sewage, prevent pollution of water bodies and significantly improve public health, hygiene and overall living conditions for [] The post Omar Govt clears Rs 72 cr Used Water Management Projects for Baramulla, Rajouri appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CM hails Yassers historic gold medal win at Asian Boxing Cship
Excelsior Sports Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 16: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today congratulated Rajouris young boxer Mohammad Yasser on winning the gold medal at the Asian Boxing Championship held in Uzbekistan. In his congratulatory message, the Chief Minister said that the young athletes remarkable achievement has brought pride and honour to Jammu & Kashmir and the entire country. He lauded Mohammad Yassers dedication, hard work and determination, saying that his success on the international stage reflects the immense sporting talent emerging [] The post CM hails Yassers historic gold medal win at Asian Boxing Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Khalsa Club, Bandu Rakh enter final of Night Hockey tourney
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, May 16: Khalsa Club Gol Gujral and Bandu Rakh Hockey Club advanced to the final of the Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji 7-A-Side Night Hockey Tournament 2026 after registering impressive victories in their respective semi-final matches. In the second semi-final, Bandu Rakh Hockey Club defeated Sahil Hockey Club Gol Gujral by 3-1 in a thrilling contest played amid an enthusiastic atmosphere. Earlier, Khalsa Club Gol Gujral booked their berth in the final after defeating Shahid Bhagat [] The post Khalsa Club, Bandu Rakh enter final of Night Hockey tourney appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K Swimming Association conducts Sr National selection trials
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, May 16: J&K Swimming Association today conducted the selection trials for the 79th Senior National Probables (Men and Women) Open Category at Jodhamal Public School in accordance with the guidelines of the Swimming Federation of India and Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, as per handout issued. The trials were organized under the leadership of Association President Ramandeep Singh Soodan, General Secretary Bharat Kumar Sharma and other office bearers of the association. Various swimming events were conducted [] The post J&K Swimming Association conducts Sr National selection trials appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Grammar of the Void An evocative collection of stories
Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal Satyarth Panditas Grammar of the Void, a profoundly evocative collection of stories, reads like a haunting cartography of contemporary human existence, mapping the silences, fractures, anxieties, and invisible wounds that quietly inhabit modern life. The title itself is charged with philosophical depth, where the void is not simply emptiness, but a dense landscape of memory, guilt, displacement, loneliness, emotional exhaustion, and suppressed despair. With remarkable emotional intelligence and narrative restraint, Pandita transforms ordinary moments into deeply [] The post Grammar of the Void An evocative collection of stories appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
APS Noida wins Inter APS WC U-17 Girls Football title
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, May 16: The Inter Army Public Schools (Western Command) U-17 Girls Football Tournament concluded after three days of thrilling football action and spirited competition. The tournament, held from May 14 to 16, witnessed participation from five prominent Army Public Schools of Western Command including APS Kandrori, APS Ambala, APS Noida, APS Jammu Cantt and APS Tibri. Organized on a league basis, the tournament showcased remarkable teamwork, discipline and outstanding football skills by the participating teams. Young [] The post APS Noida wins Inter APS WC U-17 Girls Football title appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Jammu Division Karate Championship concludes
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, May 16: A two-day Jammu Division Karate Championship was organized by the Traditional Karate Association of J&K on May 15 and 16 at Indoor Sports Complex Bhagwati Nagar. Around 400 students from different districts of Jammu division participated in the championship, showcasing their talent and competitive spirit in various karate events. Ritika, Manager Indoor Stadium Bhagwati Nagar, attended the event as the chief guest and distributed medals among the winners. She appreciated the efforts of all [] The post Jammu Division Karate Championship concludes appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Healing through memory and exile
Ashok Ogra ashokogra@gmail.com Neuroscience is a broad church and has long-drawn public interest. To treat the human brain requires exceptional patience, precision and judgment. Most doctors memoirs or autobiographies tend to be too technical for the average reader. However, Healer in Exile: The Untold Story of Dr. Sushil Razdan deals with themes of resilience, service, and displacement. Presented as Dr. Razdans life story as narrated to his engineer son, Sachin, the book traces his journey through medicine, migration, and his [] The post Healing through memory and exile appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Inter-School Zonal sports competitions conclude at Akhnoor
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, May 16: A week-long Inter-School Zonal Level Sports competitions-cum-trials for under-14 and under-17 boys and girls concluded at Indoor Stadium Akhnoor. The event was organized by the Department of Youth Services and Sports, Zone Akhnoor. The competitions were held in Volleyball, Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, Chess, Yoga, Table Tennis, Cricket, Badminton, Basketball, Football and Wrestling disciplines. Around 1,820 students from Government and private educational institutions of Zone Akhnoor participated enthusiastically in the tournament, as per handout issued. In [] The post Inter-School Zonal sports competitions conclude at Akhnoor appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
There is a particular kind of injustice that wears the mask of bureaucratic delay. It does not arrive with fanfare or confrontation. It simply accumulates, year upon year, until the weight of it becomes unbearable for those condemned to carry it. This is precisely what approximately 3,000 non-gazetted employees across five Government Medical Colleges GMC Kathua, Doda, Rajouri, Anantnag, and Baramulla have been enduring since their appointment in 2019. No promotions. No Departmental Promotion Committees. No Service Recruitment [] The post Stalled Career Progression appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Police conducts searches at 15 places in Sopore
Incriminating material seized Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 16: Police today conducted searches at more than 15 locations in Sopore in district Baramulla in connection with a case registered against banned outfit Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp An official said that the searches were carried out at Jamia Qadeem, Naseem Bagh, Krankshivan, Tarzoo, Amargarh, Warpora, Bomai, Boitingoo and other areas of Sopore in connection with FIR No. 42/2025 registered at Police [] The post Police conducts searches at 15 places in Sopore appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Interim arrangement of Chairman Co-op bank in absence of BoD is valid: HC
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 16: The High Court has held that the Government has powers to make an interim arrangement of Chairman J&K Cooperative Bank Ltd in absence of its Board of Directors (BoD) and dismissed the application seeking stay of such interim arrangement. Justice Sanjay Dhar refused to stay the Government order dated 15.4.2026 whereby an interim arrangement was made for appointment of Chairman of the Bank. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The petitioner-Mohammad Latief Dar, a [] The post Interim arrangement of Chairman Co-op bank in absence of BoD is valid: HC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
SDM arrested in Rs 1.63 cr scam
CHANDIGARH, May 16: A Sub-Divisional Magistrate posted in Punjabs Gurdaspur was on Saturday arrested in connection with the Rs 1.63 crore embezzlement of funds linked to the land acquisition for a national highway project in 2018-2019, police said. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Anupreet Kaur, a 2012-batch Punjab Civil Services officer, was held from her from her official residence in Gurdaspur. She was currently posted as SDM, Gurdaspur. She was also holding the charge of the municipal council, [] The post SDM arrested in Rs 1.63 cr scam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
2 tourists killed in road mishap
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 16: Two tourists from Gujarat were killed after a Tavera vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge on the Pahalgam-Aru route in south Kashmirs Anantnag district today. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Three others, including the driver, were injured in the accident and shifted to hospital for treatment. Click here to watch video An official said that the deceased were identified as Bawin Bhavsar, son of Mahesh Bhavsar, and Naina, [] The post 2 tourists killed in road mishap appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Vice-President, union Minister spotlight Sikkims growing national importance
GANGTOK, May 16 : Sikkim occupied the national spotlight on Saturday as two senior leaders of the union government Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan and union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia participated in engagements that underlined the Himalayan states rising strategic, cultural and ecological significance. The visit of Vice-President Radhakrishnan to attend the 51st State Day celebrations and union Minister Scindias focus on biodiversity and sustainable tourism, together reflected the Centres increasing emphasis on Sikkim as a model state balancing development, heritage [] The post Vice-President, union Minister spotlight Sikkims growing national importance appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Everybody speaks of love of stolen glances, whispered names, of hearts that race in moonlit silence. They tell tales of romance, of hands that meet and never part, of promises wrapped in forever. But there is a quieter love deeper than roses, stronger than time the love that arrives without warning. He comes not with poetry, nor with practiced charm, but with tiny fingers that curl around yours as if theyve always belonged there. A little boy, with laughter like [] The post AThe Little Thief of My Heart appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
One dies, 9 turn sick after consuming wild vegetable
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 16: An elderly villager died while nine others turned sick after consuming wild vegetable at Kandi Morha, in upper reaches of Kotranka Sub Division of district Rajouri last night. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Reports said two families hailing from Mohra Kandi consumed the wild vegetable, locally known as `Ban Ganeri (Saag) on Friday evening. At around 9 pm, at least ten members of these two families started feeling drowsiness and vomiting and their [] The post One dies, 9 turn sick after consuming wild vegetable appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Pak must decide whether to be part of geography or history: Army Chief
New Delhi: In a stern military message to Islamabad, Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi on Saturday said if Pakistan continues to harbour terrorists and operate against India, then they have to decide whether they want to be part of geography or history or not. At an interactive session hosted by Uniform Unveiled at the Manekshaw []
India rejects Hague tribunals arbitration award
Says Indus Waters Treaty is in abeyance New Delhi: India on Saturday trashed a ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague regarding certain hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir which Pakistan had objected to under the framework of the Indus Waters Treaty. New Delhi, rejecting the award, said its decision to hold []
Omar Govt clears 72 crore Used Water Management Projects for Baramulla, Rajouri
Projects to strengthen sanitation infra, ensure scientific sewage treatment Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved Used Water Management Projects for Baramulla and Rajouri at an estimated cost of 37.96 crore and 34.43 crore respectively, aimed at strengthening sanitation infrastructure and addressing wastewater management challenges in the two urban areas. The projects, cleared by []
Police seize notorious drug peddlers properties worth 6 crore in Sgr
Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan Srinagar: In a significant crackdown against drug trafficking, Srinagar Police have attached properties valued at approximately 6 crore belonging to three notorious drug peddlers as part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan. The action underscores the law enforcements resolve to combat narcotics-related activities and dismantle illegal []
Crackdown on narcotics networks intensified; multiple arrests made
Srinagar: In a determined effort to combat the rising menace of drug trafficking and substance abuse, police across the union territory have stepped up their operations, resulting in significant seizures, arrests, and destruction of illegal narcotics cultivation. The ongoing crackdown, under the banner of the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, demonstrates the authorities unwavering []
Transport minister ditches car, rides tonga to promote fuel conservation
Srinagar: A Jammu and Kashmir Minister on Saturday rode a tonga (horse-cart) in Srinagar, and said it was the best way to support Prime Minister Narendra Modis appeal for fuel conservation. Ditching his official vehicle, Satish Sharma the Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Transport, and Youth Services and Sports travelled []
Property of Hizb-linked proclaimed offender attached: Police
Srinagar: In an ongoing effort to dismantle the terror network and curb anti-national activities, Sopore Police have attached immovable property linked to a proclaimed offender involved in a militancy case. The action is part of a broader crackdown targeting militant handlers, absconders, and their support structures in the region. The property, consisting of land measuring []
424 children among 541 kidnapping victims in J&K, 341 minor girls targeted: NCRB report
Srinagar: The latest National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report has revealed that minor girls accounted for the overwhelming majority of kidnapping and abduction victims in Jammu and Kashmir during 2024, even as the Union Territory witnessed a sharp decline in overall cases compared to previous years. According to NCRB report tilted Crime in India 2024 []
CM hails M Yassers historic gold medal win
Says govt committed to promoting sports infrastructure Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday congratulated Rajouris young boxer Mohammad Yasser on winning the gold medal at the Asian Boxing Championship held in Uzbekistan. In his congratulatory message, the Chief Minister said that the young athletes remarkable achievement has brought pride and honour to Jammu & []
Shah Shahni Dogri Film shines with Love and Compassion
Ravinder Kaul ravinderkaul07@gmail.com The first Dogri feature film Gallan Hoiyaan Beetiyaan released in the year 1966, raising the hope that, like Punjabi cinema, Dogri films will also become the harbingers of showcasing Dogri language and Dogra culture across the globe. However, these hopes were never fulfilled. The next Dogri film Maa Neyi Mildi came after a gap of 44 years in the year 2010. 60 years after the release of the first feature film, the score of Dogri films is [] The post Shah Shahni Dogri Film shines with Love and Compassion appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
International Museum Day:Rare Manuscripts, Artefacts to Go on Display at J&K Museums
Idrees Bukhtiyar Srinagar, May 16: The Department of Culture, Jammu and Kashmir, will celebrate International Museum Day on May 18 with special exhibitions and public outreach programmes at the Dogra Art Museum in Jammu and the SPS Museum in Srinagar. This years theme, Museums Uniting a Divided World: Connecting Cultures, Bridging Communities, Building Peace, aims to highlight the role of museums in preserving heritage and fostering social harmony through cultural exchange and historical awareness. According to the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K, specially curated exhibitions of rare artefacts, manuscripts, paintings, coins and heritage objects will be displayed for the public from 10 am to 4 pm. Entry to both museums will remain free and visitors will also receive special gifts during the event. At the Dogra Art Museum in Jammu, visitors will get an opportunity to witness rare manuscripts including the Skand Puran written on palm leaf and manuscripts on birch bark. The exhibition will also feature terracotta heads from Ambaran Akhnoor, a special philately collection, old currency notes and the famous Basohli paintings. Meanwhile, the SPS Museum in Srinagar will showcase an extensive collection of historical treasures including punch mark coins, Kushan gold coins, the Gilgit Manuscript, astrolabe, Tafseer-e-Qabeer, Shahnama-e-Firdousi, Sudhama series paintings, inscriptions in terracotta, Boddhisatva Padmapani in bronze, Afghan, Sikh and Dogra-period shawls, Mahabharat in Persian and a woven map of Srinagar. An official of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K, said the event is aimed at encouraging people, especially the younger generation, to reconnect with the regions rich cultural and historical legacy. Museums are not merely repositories of old objects but living spaces that preserve our collective memory and identity. Through these exhibitions, we want people to appreciate the diverse heritage of Jammu and Kashmir and understand the importance of preserving it for future generations, the official said. The official said that International Museum Day provides an opportunity to promote cultural awareness and strengthen communal harmony through shared heritage. The rare manuscripts, paintings and artefacts on display reflect the civilisational richness of the region. Such events help bridge communities and inspire people to value peace, dialogue and cultural coexistence, the official added. The Directorate has invited students, researchers, tourists and the general public to visit the museums and witness the unique collections that reflect the artistic, literary and historical traditions of Jammu and Kashmir.
Digital Arrest: Fear Finds a New Weapon
This rising cyber fraud is not just stealing money; it is exploiting anxiety, isolation and poor legal awareness DR JAVID ARSALAN The most disturbing crimes of our times are no longer committed only in dark alleys or behind closed doors. Increasingly, they arrive with a phone call, a video link, a forged letterhead and a terrifying voice claiming to represent the law. The so-called digital arrest is one such menace, a chilling form of cyber fraud that thrives not merely on technology, but on fear. It weaponises the citizens respect for authority, ignorance of legal procedure, and panic in the face of public shame. Let the first fact be stated clearly: there is no legal concept called digital arrest in Indian law. Legal experts and public advisories have repeatedly clarified that no citizen can be arrested over WhatsApp, Zoom or any other digital platform, nor can the police, CBI, ED or a court demand money through a video call as part of an inquiry or verification process. Yet thousands continue to fall prey because the scam is designed not to invite reason, but to suspend it. Victims are told they are linked to money laundering, narcotics, pornography, forged passports or suspicious parcels. They are ordered to stay alone, not speak to family, and remain on a live video call for hours while fake officers display fabricated documents and issue threats of immediate imprisonment. This is not simply another cyber scam. It is a psychological assault. What gives digital arrest its power is not only the fraudsters sophistication, but the publics deep fear of the criminal justice system. In a society where legal processes are often seen as intimidating, slow and opaque, many citizens are primed to believe that anything is possible in the name of investigation. The scam succeeds because it borrows the language and symbolism of state power. Uniforms, forged FIRs, fake office backdrops and official-sounding accusations create an atmosphere in which terror overtakes common sense. That is why the issue deserves to be seen as more than a matter of digital gullibility. It is a mirror held up to a deeper institutional problem. If ordinary, educated people can be convinced that an arrest may occur virtually and that freedom may be secured through an instant bank transfer, then what is truly at work is not mere ignorance. It is a profound uncertainty about due process itself. The scale of the problem is no longer small enough to dismiss. Reports and analyses have pointed to losses running into thousands of crores. By late 2025, the Union Home Ministry informed the Supreme Court that Indians had lost roughly 3,000 crore to such scams, underlining the seriousness of the threat. Other assessments suggested that 2024 alone saw around 2,000 crore in losses linked to these schemes. This is organised crime wearing a digital mask, and it is expanding because it has discovered a profitable formula: impersonate power, isolate the victim, invoke shame, demand urgency, and drain savings before doubt can return. The response so far has not matched the gravity of the crime. Yes, advisories have been issued. Government agencies and cyber-awareness campaigns have repeatedly warned the public that digital arrest is a fraud and that suspicious calls should be reported through official channels such as the 1930 cyber helpline and the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. But advisories alone cannot defeat a criminal ecosystem that is agile, multilingual, technologically savvy and often transnational. The law, too, appears behind the curve. Current provisions may allow prosecution for cheating, impersonation, forgery, intimidation, extortion, and IT-related offences, but legal analyses have argued that this patchwork is inadequate for a coordinated crime model built on virtual detention, fake official identity, and instant financial coercion. There is growing merit in the view that India must consider a specific statutory framework to address such offences, one that clearly criminalises digital impersonation of public authority for financial extraction and provides aggravated penalties where organised syndicates, deepfakes or cross-border networks are involved. Equally important is the language used by institutions and media. The phrase digital arrest, if repeated carelessly, risks normalising a fraudulent idea. Words matter. The state must not allow scam vocabulary to harden into public belief. Every police advisory, every media report and every awareness campaign should state unambiguously that digital arrest is not a lawful power but a criminal deception. The Supreme Courts intervention has therefore been timely. In late 2025, it took suo motu cognisance of the growing number of victims and reportedly pushed for a coordinated national response, including wider investigation and stronger use of technology to identify suspicious patterns in real time. That judicial concern must now translate into institutional reform. Banks need faster transaction-freeze mechanisms. Telecom systems need stronger caller-verification safeguards. Police forces need specialised cyber-fraud training. Most importantly, the citizen needs legal literacy in plain language. This literacy campaign must go far beyond urban, English-speaking India. The next phase of fraud prevention cannot remain trapped in occasional social-media warnings. It must enter schools, colleges, panchayats, mohallas, newsrooms and television bulletins. Citizens should know basic legal truths: no arrest happens over a private app; no genuine agency demands secrecy from family; no court asks for money to avoid detention; no lawful investigation depends on an immediate transfer of savings. At its heart, the digital arrest phenomenon reveals a troubling collision between technology and trust. We live in an age where the screen has become the new theatre of authority. A face on video, an emblem on a document, a threatening tone on a call all can now be fabricated with alarming ease. If institutions do not move faster, the citizen will remain vulnerable not only to scams, but to a wider erosion of confidence in what is real, lawful and safe. India cannot afford to treat this as a passing cyber trend. It is an attack on financial security, mental peace and civic trust. The answer lies not only in catching fraudsters, but in restoring public clarity about the
Nurturing Values in a Technology-Driven World
Technology can shape the future, but parents shape the character of the next generation DR. TAWSEEF A MIR The world today is changing at a speed never witnessed before. Technology has entered every sphere of life, from education and communication to entertainment and business. Smartphones, social media, artificial intelligence and online platforms have transformed society into what is often called the digital era. While this transformation has brought remarkable opportunities, it has also created serious challenges, especially for children and teenagers. In such circumstances, the role of parents has become more important than ever before. Parents are the first teachers and guides of a child. In the digital age, their responsibility is not only to provide food, shelter and education, but also to protect children from the harmful effects of uncontrolled technology while helping them benefit from its positive side. The future of society greatly depends on how wisely parents handle this responsibility. One of the biggest challenges of the digital era is excessive screen time. Many children spend hours using mobile phones, watching videos, playing online games or scrolling through social media. As a result, they often become disconnected from real-life interactions, physical activities and studies. Parents must therefore establish healthy boundaries regarding the use of gadgets. Limiting screen time and encouraging outdoor games, reading habits and family conversations can help children maintain a balanced lifestyle. Another major responsibility of parents is monitoring online content. The Internet is filled with both useful and harmful material. Children can easily access inappropriate websites, violent content, fake information or unhealthy trends. Without guidance, young minds may become confused or negatively influenced. Parents should remain aware of what their children watch, read and share online. Instead of adopting a harsh or controlling attitude, they should create an atmosphere of trust where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences openly. Cyberbullying has also emerged as a serious concern in the digital world. Many children suffer silently from online harassment, insults or social pressure on digital platforms. Such experiences can deeply affect mental health and self-confidence. Parents must pay attention to sudden behavioural changes in their children, such as isolation, anxiety, anger or sadness. Open communication within the family is essential so children know they can seek support whenever they face difficulties online. Moreover, parents today must teach digital ethics and responsibility. Technology itself is neither good nor bad; its impact depends on how it is used. Children should learn values such as honesty, kindness, respect and discipline while interacting online. Spreading rumours, insulting others or misusing social media should never be normalised. Parents should teach children that digital actions have real-life consequences. A responsible digital citizen is one who uses technology wisely and respectfully. Education in the digital era has also changed significantly. Online classes, digital learning platforms and educational videos have made learning more accessible than ever. However, easy access to information does not automatically guarantee true learning. Students often become dependent on shortcuts and lose the habit of critical thinking. Parents should motivate children to use technology as a tool for gaining knowledge rather than mere entertainment. Encouraging curiosity, creativity and independent thinking is essential for intellectual growth. Another important duty of parents is to set a personal example. Children learn more from observation than from instructions. If parents themselves remain addicted to mobile phones, ignore family conversations or spend excessive time online, children are likely to imitate the same behavior. Responsible parenting, therefore, requires self-discipline as well. Family meals without phones, meaningful discussions and spending quality time together can strengthen emotional bonds and reduce digital dependency. The digital era has also affected moral and emotional development. Modern culture often promotes instant pleasure, materialism and unrealistic lifestyles through social media. Young people may compare themselves with others and develop feelings of inferiority or dissatisfaction. Parents should help children understand the difference between virtual appearances and real life. Teaching gratitude, patience, humility and self-worth is necessary to protect them from emotional instability and social pressure. In addition, parents should encourage children to develop practical life skills. Technology can simplify many tasks, but dependence on digital tools may reduce creativity, communication abilities and problem-solving skills. Activities such as reading books, participating in sports, helping with household work and engaging in social service help children become confident and responsible individuals. Religious and cultural values also play an important role in guiding children through the digital age. Parents should ensure that technological advancement does not weaken moral principles and family traditions. A child who grows up with strong values is more likely to make wise decisions even when exposed to negative influences online. At the same time, parents must avoid becoming overly strict or authoritarian. Completely banning technology is neither practical nor beneficial in todays world. Instead, the goal should be balanced usage. Technology is an essential part of modern education and future careers. Parents should therefore guide children toward productive use of digital resources while minimising risks. Finally, parenting in the digital era requires awareness, patience and continuous learning. Since technology evolves rapidly, parents themselves must stay informed about new apps, online trends and digital challenges affecting young people. An informed parent is better equipped to protect and guide children in a changing world. The digital era has brought both opportunities and dangers. While technology has made life easier and education more accessible, it has also exposed children to distractions, misinformation and emotional risks. Therefore, the responsibilities of parents today are far greater than before. They must become mentors, protectors and role models who guide children towards a balanced and responsible use of technology. Strong families, open communication, moral values and wise parenting are the keys to raising a healthy generation in the digital age. (The Author is a Former Assistant Professor (Botany), BFIT Group of Institutions, Dehradun, NEET Educator at Kashmir Institute of Excellence, Commission member of CEESP, IUCN, Gland, Switzerlandand Section-Editor, Ethnobotany Research and Applications Journal. Hecan be reached at: ethno.tawseef@gmail.com)
Reselling vs. Private Labelling: Strategic Implications for Businesses
The choice between reselling and private labelling is not merely operational but deeply strategic, shaped by a firms resources, risk appetite, and long-term vision DR. SHAHID AMIN In todays dynamic, highly competitive business environment, entrepreneurs and businesses are continually exploring efficient models to enter and expand in markets. Among the prominent approaches are reselling and private labelling, both of which have gained significant traction with the rapid growth of e-commerce and digital marketplaces. While these models enable firms to sell products without necessarily engaging in manufacturing, they differ fundamentally in terms of control, investment requirements, branding opportunities, and long-term value creation. A clear understanding of these differences is essential for informed strategic decision-making. Understanding Reselling- It is one of the simplest and most accessible business models. It involves purchasing products from manufacturers, wholesalers, or distributors and selling them directly to consumers at a markup, which represents the resellers profit margin. In this model, the reseller does not significantly alter the product and typically markets it under the original brand name. For instance, selling branded products such as smartphones, apparel, or consumer goods falls within this category. The primary appeal of reselling lies in its low entry barriers. Entrepreneurs can initiate operations with minimal capital investment, often utilising online marketplaces and social media platforms to reach a wide customer base. Since the products are already established in the market, resellers benefit from existing brand recognition, reputation, and customer trust. Furthermore, operational complexities remain limited, as there is no requirement for product design, manufacturing, or extensive quality assurance processes. However, despite its accessibility, reselling presents several limitations. The market is often characterised by intense competition, with multiple sellers offering identical products. This leads to price-based competition, reduced profit margins, and minimal scope for differentiation. Additionally, resellers are highly dependent on suppliers for pricing, inventory availability, and product quality, making the business vulnerable to external uncertainties. Consequently, reselling is generally considered a short- to medium-term strategy rather than a sustainable long-term growth model. Amazon India and Flipkart operate as marketplaces where sellers offer branded products such as electronics, books, and apparel, leveraging existing brand value and the platforms reach. Meesho focuses on social commerce, enabling individualsespecially small entrepreneursto resell products through WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram with minimal investment. Snapdeal functions as a value-oriented marketplace, allowing sellers to offer both branded and unbranded goods across categories. IndiaMART serves as a B2B platform where traders and wholesalers supply industrial products, raw materials, and consumer goods to businesses. Offline retail follows a similar model. Stores like Reliance Smart Bazaar and Reliance Digital sell branded items such as Coca-Cola beverages or Samsung phones. Likewise, selling packaged goods like Maggi or Surf Excel at DMart is an example of reselling. Understanding Private Labelling- In contrast, private labelling involves sourcing generic or unbranded products from manufacturers and selling them under a firms own brand name. Businesses often customise product features, packaging, and branding elements to create a unique identity in the marketplace. This model offers significantly greater control over both the product and the brand. By establishing a distinct market presence, firms can differentiate themselves in competitive environments, foster customer loyalty, and command higher profit margins. Private labelling also enables businesses to tailor products according to specific customer needs and preferences, thereby enhancing overall value creation. Nevertheless, private labelling requires a higher level of investment and strategic commitment. Entrepreneurs must allocate resources to branding, packaging design, marketing, and, sometimes, product development. In addition, risks related to inventory management, quality assurance, and supplier reliability must be carefully managed. Unlike reselling, where demand can be tested quickly, private labelling involves longer lead times and greater financial exposure, making it a more complex but potentially rewarding approach. Reliance Retails grocery businesses primarily market products of third-party FMCG players; they also sell in-house brands. Reliance Retail owns names such as Snactac (snacks), Puric (hygiene), Enzo (laundry), Glimmer (beauty), and Get Real (personal care), among other private labels in apparel, footwear, and electronics, which were launched over the years as part of its private label push into retail. Similarly, retail formats like Star Bazaar by the Tata Group sell in-house products such as Klia (hygiene), Fabsta (food/snacks), and Skye (personal care) under their own store brands, reflecting a private-label strategy. Private Label Brands Fresho and BB Royal are the private labels of BigBasket, under which it offers various products to consumers. Fresho offers everything fresh, including milk, bread, cheese, eggs, fruits, and vegetables. In e-commerce, Amazon sells products under its own brand, AmazonBasics, which is a classic example of private labelling. Amazon Basics, one of Amazons most notable private labels, was created to provide customers with high-quality products at competitive prices. Launched in 2009, Amazon Basics offers a wide range of everyday items. Likewise, Flipkarts in-house brands, such as MarQ, represent private labels developed and sold exclusively on its platform. Insights from Research- Empirical research further strengthens the understanding of these business models. A 2017 study examining the impact of brand image, product quality, and self-efficacy on purchase decisions regarding private-label rights (PLR) products found that product quality plays a significant role in shaping consumer behaviour. The study concluded that maintaining and enhancing product quality leads to a more positive perception of private label products, thereby increasing consumers willingness to try and purchase them. Another study conducted in 2022 explored the strategic decisions of a small manufacturer entering a market dominated by a larger competitor. Due to the lack of technological superiority, the small firm had to choose between producing imitation products (copycats) and engaging in private labelling. The findings revealed that consumer purchasing decisions are influenced not only by price but also by product quality, brand value, and consumer patience. The analysis further suggested a dynamic strategic pattern. As the production costs of genuine products increase, the small manufacturer initially adopts a passive strategy of producing copycats, then shifts to an active acceptance strategy by engaging in private labelling, and eventually moves to an active rejection strategy, reverting to copycat production
Sabka sath, Sabka vikas, Sabka hisab..What PM meant by this!
ASHWANI KUMAR CHRUNGOO FRAGRANCE OF IDEAS We have recently come across, during the election campaigning in West Bengal, the specific changed statement of PM Narendra Modi in the shape of a slogan as Sabka sath, Sabka vikas, Sabka hisab. This is a very loaded statement and has a number of meanings and connotations. It is for the interpreter to interpret those in his or her choicest manner. Generallyspeaking, PM Modi doesnt speak words or sentences that have double or different meanings. But this time, after due thought, he has done so; therefore, it needs to be decoded here and interpreted in its fuller perspective. In an ordinary course of events, when the election campaigning in any area takes place, the politicalparties and their leaders primarily speak keeping in view the elections and the connected issues incidentalthereto. Most of the things said are election-specific, and they usuallylose their relevance once the campaigning is done. However, sometimes it happens that the leaders speak about the policy of the future governmentsin case theyget elected in the state or the centre. These statementsset a template for the future governments to implement their policy, which they mention about in their campaigning. These become so important for all that they hardly ignore its implications, and if they do so, they do it only at their own peril. PM Modi, while referringto the slogan sabka sath, sabka vikas, sabka hisab during the campaigning, knew that the statement could be given different interpretationsby the opposition parties and leaders and might bounce back. Despite this, he reiteratedthe same to convey a very important message. In the common parlance, these words can have meaning to the effect that the opposition members who were involved in illegal activities or who might have done wrong acts before, during or after the elections earlier would be taken to task once the results go in favour of the BJP. However, PM Modi had his own targets while he delivered these statements, besides the usual meaning of the term. Long before the elections in the five states that were held in the month of April this year, PM Modi talked about the growing demographic imbalancein the country and also referred to its consequences at a social and political level thereof. B.L. Santhosh, General Secretary (Org.) of the BJP, in an exclusive interview to Panchajanya some four months ago, classified the elections in West Bengal as a civilizational challenge. He was also categoricalabout the issue of illegal infiltration in the country, and particularly in the states like Assam and Bengal. The issue of the illegal infiltration in West Bengal was raised by Mamta Bannerji herself in the parliament during the NDA government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee. At that particular time, she was not influenced by their vote-bank attraction as they used to be on the side of the Left-front political erena ensuring their consistent victory in their contentionfor power. During the tenure of Inderjit Gupta as the Union Home Minister, who was also from the Left Front, the figures in regard to the illegal infiltrators in the country were tabled in the house, and they referred to their number as around one crore. These infiltrators were also involved in anti-national, illegal and immoral activities in various parts of the country. Now their number is suggested as three crore in the country, living primarily in West Bengal and Assam. The Congress party is responsible for the settlement of illegal infiltrators in the country. They did it initially in Assam. Faqruddin Ali Ahmed, a Congress leader and the then prominent Minister in Assam who later also became the President of India during his tenure as the Minister, made statements saying that the population influx in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) would affect the north eastern and the eastern states of India. He is held primarily accountable for opening gates to the illegal infiltrators in Assam. West Bengal, before and after the 1971 war with Pakistan, became the centre of Bangladeshi refugees, and many of them didnt go back to their country after the liberation of Bangladesh. The issue assumed alarming proportions when the political parties, for their own undue interests, encouraged this infiltration and used these infiltrators as their captive vote-bank. It was done earlier by the Congress, later by the Left parties and in the current context by the TMC headed by Mamta Bannerji. Then there is also the infiltration issue of Muslim Rohangyas from Myanmar, coupled with the illegal infiltration of Muslim Bangladeshi infiltrators in the country. They were issued identity certificates/cards and voter cards by various governments in the past, and most of them couldnt prove their citizenship in India, while a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voters list was done in certain states, including West Bengal. They were thus deleted by the Election Commission of India as genuine voters in India. Mamta Bannerji, during her tenure as the Chief Minister of West Bengal, took this issue to the next level and made attempts to pit the original inhabitants of West Bengal against these illegal Muslim infiltrators and did everything to appease them at the cost of the local population and the national ethos and identity. She provided all sorts of security and facilities to these infiltrators who were/are involved in all kinds of anti-national activities. She went to the extent of refusing to accept the Union Home Ministrys proposal to acquire and allot land to the BSF to build permanent border infrastructure there to stop infiltrations. She also defied the Calcutta High Court verdict in this connection in regard to the deadline set by the court, and thus her government was also penalised by the High Court. Mamta Bannerji took no action in this regard up to her last day in the office. The issue of border fencing around 600 kms with the Indo-Bangladesh border is a very serious and sensitive issue of national security for which the whole amount of expenditure was to be borne by the government of India. Mamta
BJP-PDP Diverting Attention From Omar Govts Agenda: Sagar
RK News Service Srinagar, 16 May: A one-day convention of the Working Committee of District Budgam comprising delegates, working committee members and block functionaries was held on Saturday at the partys district headquarters, Mujahid Manzil, Budgam. The convention was presided over by General Secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar. During the convention, organisational matters and issues of public importance were discussed in detail. Speakers highlighted the governance and welfare initiatives undertaken by the Omar-led government and stressed the need to strengthen the party at the grassroots level by taking the achievements of the elected government to every doorstep. Addressing the gathering, Ali Mohammad Sagar said the National Conference government remains firmly committed to fulfilling the aspirations of the people and ensuring inclusive and people-centric development across Jammu and Kashmir. He said party workers must actively engage with the public and counter the false and politically motivated propaganda being spread by the BJP and PDP.
Congress Launches Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan-II in Srinagar
RK News Service Srinagar, May 16: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee on Friday formally launched the second phase of the Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan (SSA)-II in Srinagar as part of its organisational strengthening drive. The programme was held at the PCC headquarters in Srinagar in line with the directions of the All India Congress Committee and JKPCC leadership. The meeting witnessed participation of senior party leaders, office bearers, block presidents, workers and grassroots cadre. The initiative aims to identify committed and disciplined leadership for different organisational responsibilities within the party structure. JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra attended the meeting as an ordinary participant, which party leaders described as a reflection of collective leadership and organisational commitment. The committee constituted for the exercise was headed by Observer and MLA Kreeri-Wagoora Irfan Hafeez Lone along with coordinators Fayaz Ahmad Mir, Prof. Danish Jhangir, Danish Khan, Molvi M. Maqbool and District Congress Committee Srinagar President Audil Farooq Mir. During the meeting, discussions were held on strengthening booth and block-level structures, cadre mobilisation, coordination mechanisms and organisational discipline. Addressing a press conference after the meeting, party leaders said the outreach programme under SSA-II would continue across all blocks, wards and Assembly constituencies of Srinagar district from May 17 onward to further strengthen the party at the grassroots level.
AIP Criticises Congress Stand on Dialogue With Pakistan
RK News Service Srinagar, May 16: AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi has strongly criticised Congress leaders for opposing recent remarks advocating dialogue with Pakistan, terming the partys stand as politically convenient hypocrisy and a complete contradiction of its own historical position. Inam Un Nabi said it is ironic that Congress leaders are attacking calls for engagement and dialogue with Pakistan despite the fact that Congress governments and senior congress party leaders have themselves repeatedly advocated diplomatic engagement and confidence-building measures with Pakistan in the past. Referring to the criticism of RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabales remarks on dialogue with Pakistan, Inam said the Congress response exposes its selective political approach where the party changes its stand according to convenience and political atmosphere. Successive governments in India, including Congress-led governments, have engaged Pakistan diplomatically despite periods of hostility and tension. Dialogue between nations has always remained part of statesmanship and mature political thinking. It is unfortunate that Congress today is opposing what it itself advocated for decades, Inam said.
Congress Delegation Meets Protesting JJM Contractors
RK News Service Srinagar, May 16: A delegation of Indian National Congress on Friday visited protesting contractors associated with the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Srinagar and expressed solidarity with them over the issue of pending payments. The delegation, led by senior Congress leader and MLA Kreeri Irfan Hafeez Lone, included senior party leader Nisar Ahmad Mandoo, DCC President Srinagar Audil Farooq Mir, Youth Congress President Srinagar Yasir Mandoo and DYC Vice President Basharat Bashir. The leaders interacted with the contractors and listened to their grievances regarding non-payment of dues. Addressing the gathering, Irfan Hafeez Lone described the issue as a humanitarian crisis, saying many families were suffering due to prolonged delays in release of payments. He said the contractors had worked on public welfare projects and were now being forced to protest for their rightful dues. The contractors are not seeking charity but demanding payments for the work they have already completed, he said, urging the government to address the issue without further delay. Lone said the Congress party stands with the protesting contractors and would continue to raise the matter at every available platform until their demands are met. The delegation also appealed to the government to immediately release the pending payments to prevent further hardships for the affected families.
CM Omar Expresses Grief Over Pahalgam Road Accident
Srinagar, May 16: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday expressed deep sorrow over the tragic road accident in Pahalgam in which two tourists from Gujarat lost their lives while several others were injured. In a post on X, Office of CM wrote, Chief Minister has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic road accident at Pahalgam, in which two tourists from Gujarat lost their lives and others were injured. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished speedy recovery to the injured, the post reads.
Dy CM Stresses Quality Infrastructure in Educational Institutions
RK News Service JAMMU, MAY 16: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudharyon Friday stressed the need for developing quality infrastructure in educational institutions and directed authorities to ensure timely completion of projects and creation of modern academic facilities for students across Jammu and Kashmir. Choudhary on Sartudy conducted an extensive tour of Akhnoor and adjoining areas to review the progress of ongoing developmental works besides assessing the institutional infrastructure across several educational establishments. During detailed interaction with the faculty members and students regarding the academic activities, the Deputy Chief Minister called for speedy infrastructure development. The Deputy Chief Minister directed the concerned officers to ensure speedy execution of all ongoing works while strictly adhering to quality standards and timelines. The government is committed towards creating better educational infrastructure, providing a conducive learning environment for the students across Jammu and Kashmir, he said. During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister inspected various projects and interacted with the students, faculty members and staff to take first-hand appraisal of the academic facilities, infrastructure development and overall functioning of the institutions. At the Government College of Engineering and Technology, Chak Bhalwal, Jammu, the Deputy Chief Minister reviewed the ongoing developmental works and inspected the institutional facilities. Later, the Deputy Chief Minister visited the Government Ayurvedic Medical College, Sangani, Akhnoor, where he reviewed the ongoing hostel construction works along with MLA Akhnoor, Mohan Lal Bhagat. During the visit, he interacted with the students and staff members and sought feedback regarding institutional facilities and accommodation needs. He emphasized timely completion of the hostel project with quality construction standards so that better facilities are provided to the students. The Deputy Chief Minister also inspected the ongoing works at Government Nursing College, Akhnoor along with MLA Akhnoor Mohan Lal Bhagat. Later, the Deputy Chief Minister also visited the Indripatten Bridge project site at Pragwal, Akhnoor and reviewed the progress of ongoing works. Terming the project as vital, he stressed upon timely execution and completion of the bridge to improve the connectivity and public convenience in the area.
Inclusive Development Across J&K Govts Priority: Sakeena Itoo
Urges officers to maintain close coordination with public RK News Service KULGAM, MAY 16: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today visited Nihama area of district Kulgam, and held a mega public durbar to listen the grievances, issues and demands of the local residents and other adjoining areas. During the Darbar, the locals highlighted several issues related to healthcare infrastructure, road connectivity, drinking water supply, electricity, educational facilities, social welfare schemes, irrigation, employment opportunities and other developmental concerns affecting the area. They also demanded upgradation of PHC Nihama, upgradation of schools, establishment of a Tehsil, macadamization of various roads, augmentation of safe drinking water supply, installation of street lights in the market and other public welfare issues. While addressing the gathering, Sakeena Itoo reiterated the Omar Abdullah led Governments commitment towards equitable and inclusive development of all regions, particularly rural and far-flung areas. The present Government is focused on strengthening public service delivery as well as ensuring that the benefits of welfare and developmental schemes reach every deserving household of Jammu and Kashmir, she stated. The Minister added that the government is continuously strengthening the healthcare sector in all areas, particularly in rural regions, to ensure better medical facilities and improved healthcare services for the people. She further stated that sustained efforts are also being made for the development of roads and infrastructure across J&K to improve connectivity and public amenities. The Minister assured the people that all genuine issues and demands raised during the durbar would be addressed on priority. She also gave onspot directions to concerned officers for resolution of various grievances and public issues. Sakeena Itoo also assured the locals that such Public Darbars will be held on a routine basis as they provide an important platform for understanding grassroots concerns and formulating responsive governance mechanisms. The Minister also urged the officers to maintain close coordination with the public and work with dedication, accountability and transparency for overall public welfare. Senior officers from various departments accompanied the Minister during the visit and responded to several grievances on the spot, while many issues were resolved immediately through on-site directions issued by the Minister. The locals, while interacting with the Minister, appreciated her for conducting this massive public Darbar, highlighting that it provided them an opportunity to directly project their concerns and developmental aspirations before the Government.
LG Manoj Sinha Attends 9th Maati Samman Samaroh in Mumbai
SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday attended the 9th Maati Samman Samaroh in Mumbai, a cultural festival showcasing the art, heritage, cuisine and tourism of Purvanchal, and emphasised the deep historical, spiritual and cultural linkages between Purvanchal and Maharashtra. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the relationship between the two regions dates back []
NRPC Forecasts Over 42 Per Cent Surplus Power for Jammu Kashmir, Ladakh
SRINAGAR: For the first time in nearly six months, power regulatory authorities have forecasted more than 42 percent surplus energy availability in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh for the ongoing month of May. Northern Regional Power Committee (NRPC) in its updated anticipated power supply position for May 2026 has forecasted 42.5 percent surplus power availability. []
Old Grenade Recovered, Destroyed by Police in Ganderbal
SRINAGAR: Police on Saturday evening recovered an old hand grenade in Central Kashmirs Ganderbal district. An official said that some suspicious material, reportedly an old grenade, was found in a wall by Ganderbal Police and SOG at Gulab Sheikh Mohalla Safapora this evening. The device was destroyed on the spot, the official added. (KNO)
Over 17,000 Dog and Cat Bite Cases Reported at SMHS Hospital in One Year
SRINAGAR: A whopping 17,127 bite victims, mostly from dog and cat bites, sought treatment at the Anti-Rabies Clinic at Srinagars Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital in the past year. An official while sharing details said the prevalence of dogs across the valley has contributed to human-dog conflicts, leading to a rise in cases of []
Liquor Ban Possible Within Minutes if Delhi Wants, Says Choudhary Muhammad Ramzan
SRINAGAR: Senior Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader and Rajya Sabha member Choudhary Muhammad Ramzan on Saturday said that all major laws implemented in Jammu and Kashmir originate from New Delhi, and asserted that liquor trade in the Union Territory could be stopped within 10 minutes if the Centre so desired. Speaking to reporters on []
KPDCL Announces Scheduled Power Shutdown in Srinagar Areas
SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited) has announced a planned shutdown of the 132/33 KV BeminaRawalpora Circuit-I and II on May 24, 2026, due to which several areas of Srinagar will face a temporary power outage. According to Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL, the shutdown will be observed from 09:00 []
CBSE Introduces Three-language Policy for Classes IX and X from 202627 Under NEP Alignment
SRINAGAR: The Central Board of Secondary Education (Central Board of Secondary Education) has revised its Scheme of Studies for Classes IX and X from the 202627 academic session, making the study of three languages compulsory as part of reforms aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education []
Paras Health Srinagar Completes Three Years In Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Paras Health Srinagar on Saturday marked the completion of three years of healthcare service in Kashmir, celebrating what the institution described as a journey built on compassion, resilience and trust with the people of the Valley. Established as part of Paras Healths expanding national healthcare network, the Srinagar facility has emerged over the past []
Jal Shakti Department Orders Transfers, Additional Charges Of Executive Engineers
Srinagar, May 16: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Friday ordered transfers, postings and assignment of additional charge to several Executive Engineers in the Jal Shakti Department with immediate effect. According to Government Order No. 92-JK(JSD) of 2026 dated May 16, 2026, Mr. Zahoor Ahmad Shah, presently posted as Executive Engineer, Irrigation and Flood Control Division, Doda, has been transferred and posted as Executive Engineer, Hydraulic Division, Ramban against an available vacancy. The order further stated that Mr. Sanjeev Thapa, [] The post Jal Shakti Department Orders Transfers, Additional Charges Of Executive Engineers appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Fire Breaks Out at Srinagar Hospital, Patients Evacuated
SRINAGAR: A fire incident was reported at Sheikh-ul-Alam Hospital, Karan Nagar in Srinagar on Saturday evening, triggering the prompt evacuation of patients and a swift response from fire and emergency services. Officials said the fire broke out on the fourth floor of the hospital at around 20:25 hours due to an electrical short circuit. They []
