JOB OPENING IN HS TECHNOLOGY BSNL FIBER LOCATION: TALAB TILLO, JAMMU POSITIONS AVAILABLE: JOINTERS/SPLICER HELPER FRESHERS CANDIDATES. STARTING SALARY: RS 11000 SEND RESUME IN THIS WHATAPP NO. 9419112329 STAFF REQUIRED 1. COMPUTER OPERATOR EXPERIENCED IN MARG SOFTWARE, GST & GEM. 2. LAB ASSISTANT DMLT/BMLT DIPLOMA OR DEGREE HOLDERS. GOOD SALARY PACKAGE FOR DESERVING CANDIDATES. HANS RAJ AND SONS AGENCIES RESHAMGARH COLONY, JAMMU SEND CV: HRSJK2014@GMAIL.COM MOB: 9419189485, 9419193224 REQUIRED REQUIRED SALES PERSON FOR A REPUTED FIRM DEALING WITH [] The post EMPLOYMENT (15-05-2026) appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
ED Conducts Raids in Srinagar, Other States Over Online Gaming Forex Violation Case
SRINAGAR: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday carried out searches at multiple locations across the country in connection with an alleged foreign exchange violation case linked to online gaming activities involving a Delhi-based company and its associates. Officials said raids were conducted at around 14 locations belonging to individuals and firms in Delhi, Gujarat, Indore []
NTA Announces NEET (UG) 2026 Re-Examination Date
SRINAGAR: The National Testing Agency (NTA) on Friday confirmed that the re-examination for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET-UG) 2026 will be held on June 21. In an official update shared on its X handle, the agency stated that the revised examination schedule has been approved by the Government of India. It added []
Centre hikes petrol, diesel prices by Rs 3 per litre each
New Delhi , May 15 : The Centre has hiked the prices of petrol and diesel by Rs 3 per litre each on Friday across the country.In New Delhi, the petrol prices rose from Rs 94.77 to Rs 97.77 per litre, while diesel prices increased from Rs 87.67 to Rs 90.67 per litre. This comes amid a call for fuel conservation as the world faces an energy crisis amid the West Asia conflict, which led to a blockade in the significant maritime trade route, the Strait of Hormuz. The Brent oil prices have been at a record high in the wake of the US-Israel and Iran war, which began on February 28 this year. The Brent oil price has been hovering over USD 100 per barrel as the US and Iran are attempting to mediate for a long-term ceasefire in the region. The widening of the ambit of the war engulfed the West Asian countries, which are major suppliers of fuel.However, India has maintained that there is no shortage of fuel and has adequate energy supplies. On May 12, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri said India ensured stable fuel prices and uninterrupted energy supplies despite global disruptions and rising crude oil prices, while significantly boosting domestic LPG production to meet growing demand. Addressing the CII Annual Business Summit 2026, Puri highlighted Indias resilience in handling global energy shocks through strong policy coordination and effective supply management.At a time of global supply shocks and rising crude prices, India ensured seamless availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG across the country, with no reports of shortages. Despite sharp global volatility, fuel prices have largely remained unchanged since 2022, reflecting strong policy coordination and effective supply management, the minister said. Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas had also said the government has taken several effective measures to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies for consumers and that the crude oil inventories remain stable, refineries are operating at optimum levels, and adequate stocks of petrol, diesel and LPG are available across the country with no reported dry-outs. (ANI)
BJP to Hold Protest Against Wine Shops in Kashmir Today
SRINAGAR: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Kashmir unit has announced a protest march in Srinagar today against the operation of wine shops in the Kashmir Valley, demanding a complete ban on the sale and purchase of alcohol across the region. In a statement issued by the partys co-media in-charge for Jammu and Kashmir, the protest []
Iran is finished, should make deal to end war: Trump after talks with Xi Jinping
BEIJING: US President Donald Trump said Iran is finished and must either negotiate a deal to end the ongoing conflict or face destruction. Deal or annihilation for Iran, Trump stated during an interview with Fox News on the final day of his three-day trip to China. He emphasised that the US cannot let Iran have []
Petrol, Diesel Prices Hiked Across Country
SRINAGAR: Fuel prices across the country have been increased by Rs 3.04 per litre, taking petrol to Rs 97.77 per litre and diesel to Rs 90.67 per litre. The revised rates were implemented immediately, placing additional financial pressure on commuters and transport operators already facing rising living expenses. The increase comes shortly after Prime Minister []
Minor Granted Bail by Juvenile Justice Board Srinagar
Srinagar, May 14:The Juvenile Justice Board Srinagar has granted bail to a minor boy (Juvenile in Conflict with Law) in connection with an FIR registered under Section 137(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, pertaining to the alleged kidnapping of a girl. Subsequent to the registration of the FIR, the juvenile had been lodged at the Harwan Observation Home in accordance with the applicable legal procedure. During the course of the bail proceedings, defence counsel Advocate Qazi Mohammad Athar advanced detailed and persuasive submissions before the Board seeking the release of the minor on bail. The defence also contended the young age of the juvenile, highlighted his clean antecedents, and challenged the police version of events. Upon consideration of the arguments presented and the material placed on record, the Board was pleased to allow the bail application and directed that the juvenile be released from the observation home and handed over to the custody of his father, subject to the standard terms and conditions governing such release. The order provides substantial relief to the juvenile and his family.
DC Sgr inspects progress of infrastructural upgradation works at GBMS Baghat Shoor
Srinagar, May 14: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Thursday visited Government Boys Middle School (GBMS), Baghat Shoor in LalBazar area to review the progress of ongoing infrastructure upgradation works. Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Executive Engineer, R&B Division Core, Arif Rehman Hazari, Tehsildar, Eidgah, Mohammad Iqbal Zargar, Deputy CEO, Anjum Raja, Officers from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya and other concerned accompanied the DC during the visit. During the inspection, the DC assessed the pace and quality of construction being carried out by the R&B Department under the Samagra Shiksha scheme. He inspected various sections of the building. He reviewed the pace and quality of construction work being carried out by R&B department under Samagra Shiksha. On the occasion, the DC directed the concerned agency to complete the finishing works. He emphasized that improved School infrastructure will provide a better learning environment for students in the area.
DDC Anantnag reviews progress on Mission YUVA, HADP, financial inclusion schemes
Anantnag, May 14: District Development Commissioner (DDC) Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, on Thursday chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress of Mission YUVA, the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), and several Financial Inclusion Schemes at Dak Bungalow, Khanabal. The meeting was attended by the CPO, SE KPDCL, ACD, CMO, DD Employment, CAO, CAHO, DFO Social Forestry, ALC, DEPO, DYSSO, EOs of MCs, LBM, representatives of different of departments, District Coordinator CSCs and other concerned officials. During the session, the DDC evaluated the implementation and saturation levels of key financial inclusion initiatives including PM Suraksha Bima Yojana (PM SBY), PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PM JJBY), Atal Pension Yojana (PM APY), and PM Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM). The meeting was informed that cumulatively 46303 beneficiaries have been enrolled under these schemes to date with the focus to register most eligible and vulnerable sections of the district. Taking strong note of the low performance of these schemes, the DDC directed Lead Bank Manager to enroll all eligible beneficiaries under PM JJBY, PM SBY, APY and PM SYM Schemes adding these have been tailored to meet the requirements of low income and vulnerable groups. He emphasized that any procedural bottlenecks must be cleared immediately to ensure that the benefits of these government-led initiatives reach the target population without delay. Departments were assigned specific targets and were asked to ensure the enrollment of beneficiaries from their target groups in coordination with the LBM and CSCs in a time bound manner. On flagship initiatives of HADP and JKCIP, department-wise application status, unit establishment, fund utilisation, approval rate, tracking, farm registration and measures to improve credit score and approval rates were reviewed threadbare. The meeting was informed that 34351 applications have been approved under HADP, of which 15525 have established their units, which are being tracked on OTA. Highlighting low performance of certain parameters, the DDC stressed on enhancing coverage, unit establishment, registration of farms and real-time tracking of units on OTA besides ensuring swift disbursal of loan and subsidy components to the beneficiaries. Reviewing Mission YUVA, the DDC said it is a transformative flagship initiative aimed at empowering youth by enabling them to become self-reliant entrepreneurs. He emphasised that the goal is not only to provide financial support but to create a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem in which youth have access to training, market linkages, guidance, and long-term mentorship. The DDC directed all concerned departments, banks and implementing agencies to enhance the mobilisation and coverage of potential beneficiaries including college students, SHGs, etc. by creating sustained awareness in close coordination with each other adding the mission holds special significance for underprivileged and marginalised youth, needing proper support and guidance to improve their socio-economic conditions. At conclusion, the DDC issued strict directions to all concerned officers to ensure substantial progress on different parameters of all these schemes before the next review meeting.
DC Pulwama finalises arrangements for Padyatra
Pulwama, May 14: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom o Thursday chaired a meeting to review and finalise arrangements for the forthcoming mega Padyatra as part of Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan and VVIP visit to the district scheduled on May 19. During the meeting, threadbare discussions were held regarding security arrangements, traffic regulation, transport facilities, venue management, parking, power and water supply, sanitation, healthcare services and other logistical preparations for the smooth conduct of the visit. The DC stressed upon all departments to work in close coordination and ensure timely completion of their assigned responsibilities for seamless conduct of the event. He directed officers to maintain inter-departmental coordination and put in place all requisite arrangements well in advance. Emphasising efficient public management and smooth movement, the DC instructed the concerned departments to ensure hassle-free arrangements at all designated locations and maintain proper coordination throughout the programme. Reiterating the importance of Jan Bhagidari and stakeholder participation the DC directed for smooth coordination and assistance for public to join the Pad Yatra. The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of PolicePulwama, Tanushree; Additional Deputy Commissioners of Pulwama, Awantipora and Tral, Chief Planning Officer Pulwama and senior officers from Police, Civil Administration and Paramilitary Forces.
Commissioner FDA reviews enforcement measures
Calls for strong Public Health vigilance ahead of festivitie Srinagar, May 14: Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), Jammu & Kashmir, Khalid Jahangir on Thursday held an introductory meeting with senior officers and field functionaries of Drug and Food Wing of the department, after assuming charge. During the meeting, held at the Conference Hall Combined Drug and Food Laboratory, Srinagar, the Commissioner emphasized the critical role of the department in safeguarding public health and ensuring the availability of safe food and quality drugs to the people of Jammu & Kashmir. He stressed that field functionaries must remain visible, accessible, and proactive on the ground and should discharge their duties strictly in accordance with the mandate of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and Drugs & Cosmetics Act. He directed officers to strengthen surveillance and inspection mechanisms to ensure that food business operators (FBOs) and pharmacy establishments comply with the prescribed legal standards and regulatory requirements. The Commissioner stressed that enforcement activities should be carried out in a fair, transparent, and professional manner. He further emphasized the need for coordinated teamwork among all enforcement officers of the department to ensure effective implementation of food safety and drug control measures. Drawing attention towards growing menace of drug abuse and its adverse impact on society, particularly on the younger generation, the Commissioner highlighted the importance of awareness and strict enforcement measures. He stated that the UT of J&K has already launched a comprehensive 100-day Nasha Mukht J&K Abhyan campaign against drug abuse, and directed all field officers to actively participate in the campaign by conducting awareness programmes, public outreach activities, and coordinated enforcement drives at the grassroots level. In view of the forthcoming Eid festivities and Moharram, the Commissioner directed the field staff to intensify market surveillance and enforcement activities, particularly focusing on highly consumed food items during the festive season. He asked the enforcement teams to remain extra vigilant and proactive in checking the quality, hygiene, adulteration, storage, and sale of food products in markets across Jammu & Kashmir. Reaffirming the commitment of the Food & Drugs Administration towards public welfare, he called upon all officers and stakeholders to work collectively with dedication and integrity to strengthen the regulatory framework and ensure a healthier and safer society for the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Dept of Paediatrics, GMC Sgr observes NRP Day 2026
RK News Service Srinagar, May 14: As part ofNRP day observed across India on May 10, the Department of Paediatrics, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar organized a Neonatal Resuscitation Programme (NRP) training workshop under the initiative of the National Neonatology Forum. The training programme was conducted by the Department of Paediatrics, GMC Srinagar, under the able guidance of Prof. Parvez Ahmad, Head of the Department of Paediatrics, along with senior faculty members and State Coordinator Dr. Mubashir Hassan Shah. The workshop was conductedby Dr. Mohsin Rashid, who served as the Course Coordinator and Lead Instructor, while Dr. Sheikh Quyoom served as the co-instructor. The workshop witnessed active participation from faculty members, residents, and nursing staff from GMC Srinagar and peripheral hospitals, along with participants from various private nursing homes across Srinagar district. The training focused on hands-on skill development in basic neonatal resuscitation with the aim of improving newborn survival and reducing neonatal mortality and morbidity. Neonatal Resuscitation Programme was observed across India on May 10 as an initiative of the National Neonatology Forum, supported by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, to strengthen neonatal care services throughout the country.
IUST organises Run for Health under Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan
RK news Service Awantipora, May 14: A Run for Health event under the ambit of the Government of Indias Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was successfully organised on Thursday by Directorate of Physical Education and Sports, Islamic University of Science and Technology, in collaboration with the Centre for Mental Health and Wellness and Dean Outreach. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from university faculty members, administrative officers, staff members, students, and local elderly residents, reflecting a collective commitment towards health, fitness, and a drug-free society. The programme also saw active participation from the Town Welfare Committee Awantipora, Awantipora Forest Division, Sabir Abdullah High School, and Mantaqi Higher Secondary School. The run was flagged off by senior university officers along with Dr. Iqbal Quraishi, Officer Incharge, Directorate of Physical Education and Sports. It commenced from the University Main Campus and culminated at the Synthetic Athletic Track of the university. The event concluded with a basic fitness session conducted by Dr. Hilal Ahmad Rather, Assistant Director, Physical Education and Sports, who emphasised the importance of regular physical activity in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and preventing substance abuse. Speakingon the occasion, Dr. Iqbal Quraishi thanked all participants and collaborating organisations for their wholehearted support towards the initiative and reiterated the universitys commitment to promoting wellness, fitness, and awareness against drug abuse.
Petrol, Diesel Prices Hiked By Rs 3 Per Litre Each
NEW DELHI, May 15: Petrol and diesel prices on Friday were hiked by Rs 3 per litre each as oil companies passed on part of the spike in global energy prices to consumers. Petrol in Delhi will now cost Rs 97.77 a litre, while diesel will be priced at Rs 99.67. The post Petrol, Diesel Prices Hiked By Rs 3 Per Litre Each appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Indias highest astro turf ground opens in Leh
Umar Raina Leh, May 14: At an altitude where even routine physical activity becomes a challenge, Ladakh on Thursday took a giant leap in sports infrastructure with the inauguration of Indias highest Astro Turf Football Ground at 11,500 feet in Leh. The project, inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, also includes a newly-built VIP stand and an 8-lane synthetic athletic track at the Open Stadium, turning the venue into one of the most advanced sports facilities in the Himalayan region.Built at a cost of more than 30 crore under the Khelo India scheme and Special Development Package, the infrastructure is expected to change the sporting landscape of Ladakh, where harsh winters and limited facilities have long restricted athletes from training professionally.For years, many aspiring footballers and athletes from Leh and Kargil had to travel outside the Union Territory for quality training and exposure. With the inauguration of the high-altitude turf and synthetic track, local athletes believe a major gap has finally been addressed.Officials said the facility has been designed to meet modern sporting standards and will help athletes prepare for national-level competitions while also opening possibilities for hosting tournaments and sports camps in the region.Sports enthusiasts in Leh described the development as a historic moment for Ladakhs youth, saying the project would inspire more youngsters to participate in sports instead of limiting opportunities to academics and government jobs alone.The administration believes the new infrastructure can also strengthen Ladakhs growing sports tourism sector. Given Lehs unique terrain and altitude, experts feel the stadium could attract professional teams and endurance athletes for high-altitude training in the coming yearsSpeaking on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said the facilities would provide local youth with opportunities comparable to those available in metropolitan cities and help build a stronger sporting culture in the Union Territory.He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for continued support towards Ladakhs infrastructural and youth development initiatives.The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior officials, athletes, coaches and residents, many of whom termed the project a significant step towards placing Ladakh on Indias sports map.
Agree 100 per cent with Xi that US was on decline, but under Biden: Trump
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping was 100 per cent correct in his assessment that the US was a nation in decline, but the remarks referred to the years of his predecessor Joe Biden. When President Xi very elegantly referred to the United States as perhaps being a declining nation, []
J&K moving forward with development on all fronts: LG Sinha
Kupwara/ Shopian, May 14:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said J&K was moving forward with development on all fronts. Inaugurating the 'Shaurya Gatha' Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Karnah in Kupwara district, LG Sinha said, J&K is moving forward with development on all fronts. There is a renewed sense of self-confidence, and the society is prosperous and peaceful than ever before. The initiative marked a significant milestone in the promotion of battlefield tourism, heritage preservation and border area development. He said that the administration was committed to the development of the border region. The LG also highlighted the stark contrast between development on this side of the Line of Control (LoC) and the conditions across the LoC, noting that J&K was witnessing an era of peace, progress, and prosperity, while people across the LoC continued to suffer from neglect and misgovernance. He said that J&K was, is, and would always remain an integral part of India. LG Sinha applauded Northern Command, Chinar Corps, and all officers, soldiers, engineers, workforce, and local residents for the completion of the prestigious project in a short span of time. He said soldiers laid down their lives to defend the country and their courage and sacrifice should be instilled in every Indian as a powerful source of pride and inspiration. The dedication of our forces and people is the true strength of the nation. The Shaurya Gatha Complex stands as a tribute to the valour and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. This initiative will create new opportunities for border area and battlefield tourism, homestays, local crafts and youth entrepreneurship, the LG said. He said that the initiative like promotion of valour site under Bharat Rannbhoomi Darshan initiative would usher economic growth and prosperity in Tangdhar-Karnah region, besides showcasing the rich defence legacy and culture of the region. LG Sinha said that seven villages of Tangdhar and Karnah had been included under the Vibrant Village Programme, ensuring improved infrastructure, livelihood opportunities and quality of life. Highlighting the importance of the Sadhna Tunnel, he said that it would significantly enhance connectivity, security, and economic activity in the region by providing all-weather access and facilitating trade, education, healthcare and disaster response. I urge citizens across the nation to visit Shaurya Gatha Complex and plan their holidays at the offbeat destinations of Kupwara, the LG said. He lauded the Army for their significant contribution to the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaign. Tangdhar remains a strategic location where our neighbour persistently attempt to escalate narco-smuggling activities. The development of an airport-like facility by the Army in the region will serve as a critical asset in our mission against drug smuggling, LG Sinha said. He also called upon the Police Department and security forces to maintain the highest level of alertness. Our surveillance must be foolproof to ensure that no illegal drugs enters our territory, the LG said. He expressed gratitude to the people, especially the school students for their unwavering support to Nasha Mukt J&K campaign. Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Northern Command; Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, GOC Chinar Corps; Shri Javaid Ahmad Mirchal, Member of Legislative Assembly Karnah; Shri Ashwani Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department; Maj Gen Rakesh Nair; GOC 28 Infantry Division; Brig Dharmendra Yadav, Commander, Shakti Vijay Bde, senior officers from the Army, civil administration, Police, and security forces attended the inaugural ceremony. Meanwhile, in Shopian LG Sinha said that some people were uncomfortable with the ongoing anti-drug campaign, but asserted that the administration remains committed to continuing its efforts. I want to ask you whether action should be taken against drug traffickers who are destroying our youth or not, he said, with the audience responding in unison, definitely. The LG was addressing a gathering in south Kashmirs Shopian district after inaugurating the South Kashmir Volleyball League-2026 and dedicating a multipurpose indoor sports hall to youth. I want to assure you that if any action is taken against an innocent person, that official will be held fully accountable, he said. LG Sinha said that he was aware that drugs could not be eradicated completely within 100 days, but added that an initiative had been launched that had received strong public support. Jammu and Kashmir Police is also taking serious measures against drug peddlers, he said. The LG said he would visit the area again for a padyatra under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan and appealed to people to participate in it to make it successful. Hailing sports initiatives such as the South Kashmir Volleyball League, he described them as a powerful declaration of the youths shift from spectators to architects of their own destiny. LG Sinha said the league, launched in 2021, had emerged as a key platform for youth engagement, promotion of a competitive sporting culture, and strengthening volleyball activities across south Kashmir. He said the league was also contributing to the Nasha Mukt J&K campaign by promoting sports as a positive avenue for youth participation and social transformation. The LG said Shopian was at the heart of south Kashmirs sports transformation, noting that around Rs 22 crore had been spent on sports infrastructure in the district over the past 6 years. He said work worth Rs 8.80 crore was currently underway, while 20 Khelo India centres were operational across south Kashmir, including five in Shopian alone, providing training and equipment to around 600 trainees. LG Sinha urged young sportspersons to serve as role models and mentors, encouraging them to guide the next generation towards a drug-free, healthier, and brighter future.
Mumbai Indians beat Punjab Kings by six wickets
DHARAMSHALA, May 14: Punjab Kings slumped to their fifth straight defeat, seriously hurting their playoff hopes, as Mumbai Indians cruised to a six-wicket win in a crucial IPL clash on Thursday riding on Shardul Thakurs four-wicket haul and a clinical batting effort from Tilak Varma, who smashed 75. Asked to bat first, Prabhsimran Singh (57) added a 33-ball 50-run opening stand with Priyansh Arya (27) to take PBKS to 55 for 1 in the powerplay and then added 57 runs [] The post Mumbai Indians beat Punjab Kings by six wickets appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
UP, MP, Chhattisgarh CMs meet Amit Shah in Delhi
NEW DELHI, May 14: Chief ministers of three BJP-ruled states Uttar Pradeshs Yogi Adityanath, Mohan Yadav of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarhs Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday separately called on Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the national capital. Discussions were held on issues related to security and development during the meetings, officials said. According to a post by the Office of the Home Minister, the Uttar Pradesh chief minister met Shah in New Delhi. In a separate post [] The post UP, MP, Chhattisgarh CMs meet Amit Shah in Delhi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Painful reality of NEET paper leaks in India
Sanjay Kharoo The cancellation of NEET 2026 due to allegations of paper leakage has once again exposed the deep cracks in Indias examination system. It is not merely the cancellation of an examination; it is the collapse of the hopes, discipline, sleepless nights, and emotional sacrifices of lakhs of students and aspirants who dedicate years of their lives preparing for one single opportunity seeking an admission into prestigious medical colleges. For those students who studied day and night with honesty [] The post Painful reality of NEET paper leaks in India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Beyond Straight Teeth Orthodontics and the Bigger Picture of Health
Dr Akshay Gupta drakshay.ortho@gmail.com Every year on May 15, orthodontists and dental professionals across the globe observe World Orthodontic Health Day (WOHD) to create awareness about the importance of orthodontic care and oral health. The theme for World Orthodontic Health Day 2026 is Beyond Straight Teeth, a powerful message that highlights an important truth orthodontics is not merely about cosmetics or achieving a beautiful smile. It is deeply connected to oral health, function, comfort, confidence, and overall quality of [] The post Beyond Straight Teeth Orthodontics and the Bigger Picture of Health appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Srinagar:A three day National Symposium on Avian Biology (NSAB 2026) in conjunction with the 7th Meeting of the Association of Avian Biologists in India (AABI) organized by the Division of Wildlife Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir) from 14-16 May, 2026, commenced on Thirsday at Shalimar convention Centre, SKUAST-Kashmir, Shalimar. []
Sakeena recalls late educationists contribution to education sector
GBHSS Gandhi Nagar named after Kuldip Kumar Badyal Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 14: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo today presided over a grand function held in connection with renaming of Government Boys Higher Secondary School (GBHSS), Gandhi Nagar, Jammu as Shri Kuldip Kumar Badyal Memorial Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Gandhi Nagar.MLA Bahu, Vikram Randhawa; Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Dr Rakesh Minhas; Director School Education Jammu, Naseem Javaid Chowdhary; Director Health Services Jammu Poonam Sethi, [] The post Sakeena recalls late educationists contribution to education sector appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
West Asia crisis: Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi seeks BRICS condemnation of Israel, US
NEW DELHI, May 14: Iran is a victim of illegal expansionism and warmongering, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Thursday urging the BRICS nations to explicitly condemn what he described as violations of international law by the US and Israel. Araghchi delivered the remarks on the opening day of a two-day BRICS conclave in New Delhi, chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and attended by foreign ministers from Russia, Brazil and other member states of the bloc. The [] The post West Asia crisis: Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi seeks BRICS condemnation of Israel, US appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
RSS call for Pakistan dialogue big move: Abdullah
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 14: National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah today welcomed recent remarks by a senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh leader advocating dialogue with Pakistan, saying war was not an option and that all outstanding issues must be resolved through talks. Click here to watch video Abdullah was reacting to comments made by RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, who recently called for sustained engagement and greater people-to-people contact between India and Pakistan. The NC Chief said a former Indian [] The post RSS call for Pakistan dialogue big move: Abdullah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
111 killed, 72 injured as storm, rain batter UP; relief work underway
LUCKNOW, May 14: At least 111 people were killed and 72 injured after a strong storm and heavy rain pounded several districts of Uttar Pradesh, uprooting trees and damaging houses, an official statement said on Thursday. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the loss of lives and damage caused by the unseasonal rain, thunderstorms and lightning on Wednesday and directed officials to ensure relief reaches the affected families within 24 hours. In a statement, the Relief Commissioners office said, [] The post 111 killed, 72 injured as storm, rain batter UP; relief work underway appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Cabinet approves SDH Hazratbal upgradation under relaxed norms
Rs 361 cr ISWM project to come up at Achan Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 14: The Council of Ministers, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has approved the upgradation of Sub-District Hospital Hazratbal by granting relaxation in the buffer zone restrictions under the Srinagar Master Plan-2035. The decision was taken during the 6th meeting of the Council of Ministers, with the objective of strengthening healthcare infrastructure and ensuring improved healthcare delivery in the interest of better patient care. [] The post Cabinet approves SDH Hazratbal upgradation under relaxed norms appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NEW DELHI, May 14 : The CBI on Thursday secured the custody of five persons arrested in the NEET-UG exam leak case and apprehended two more suspects as officials said the agency is also looking into possible role of any insider in the National Testing Agency (NTA) in the irregularities. The court which granted CBI the custody of the five accused for seven days said the allegations revealed the role of an organised gang involved in leaking and circulating confidential [] The post NEET paper leak: 5 remanded in CBI custody, 2 more arrested; aspirant allegedly commits suicide in UP appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Northern Army Commander reviews operational preparedness along LoC
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 14: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, today visited forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmir to review the prevailing security situation, assess summer operational preparedness, and evaluate the readiness of troops deployed in the region. During the visit, the Northern Army Commander was briefed by senior field commanders on the overall security scenario, operational deployments, counter-infiltration measures, and the preparedness being maintained along the LoC. He reviewed the [] The post Northern Army Commander reviews operational preparedness along LoC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Jugal chairs DISHA meeting, reviews progress of schemes
Excelsior Correspondent SAMBA, May 14: Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma today chaired the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting at the Conference Hall of District Administrative Complex, here to review the progress of various Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) being implemented in the district. The meeting was attended by MLA Samba Surjeet Singh Slathia, MLA Ramgarh Dr. Devinder Kumar Manyal, MLA Vijaypur Chander Parkash Ganga, District Development Commissioner Samba Ayushi Sudan, Additional Deputy Commissioner Samba, nominated members of [] The post Jugal chairs DISHA meeting, reviews progress of schemes appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
From slums of Rajouri to Asian Gold: teen boxer creates history for J&K
Ranjit Thakur JAMMU/RAJOURI, May 14: In a remarkable story of grit, resilience and sporting excellence, 14-year-old Mohd Yasser from Rajouri has become the first boxer from Jammu and Kashmir to win a gold medal at the Under-15 Asian Boxing Championship, defeating host nation Uzbekistan in the final by 4-1. For the teenager, who grew up amid poverty and personal tragedy, the triumph is not merely a sporting achievement but a symbol of determination against overwhelming odds. A Class 9 student [] The post From slums of Rajouri to Asian Gold: teen boxer creates history for J&K appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
HP Governor meets Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji Maharaj in Bengaluru
Excelsior Correspondent BENGALURU, May 14: The Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, today called on the globally renowned spiritual leader and founder of the Art of Living Foundation, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji Maharaj, at the Art of Living International Centre in Bengaluru. During the meeting, the Governor had a warm and cordial interaction with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji Maharaj. The Governor and Sri Sri Ravishankar ji Maharaj exchanged views on spiritual values, human welfare, and the promotion [] The post HP Governor meets Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji Maharaj in Bengaluru appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
60 humans trafficked in J&K in 2024: NCRB report
Forced labour, coerced marriages, sexual exploitation among reasons Bivek Mathur JAMMU, May 14: The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir recorded 60 victims of human trafficking during 2024, with forced labour identified as the major reason behind the trafficking in persons, according to a latest report of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Coerced marriages, sexual exploitation for prostitution and domestic servitude were among the other major reasons behind human trafficking in the [] The post 60 humans trafficked in J&K in 2024: NCRB report appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Rajouri athletes win 8 medals at JKUT Arm Wrestling Cship
Excelsior Sports Correspondent RAJOURI, May 14: Athletes from Acopic Health & Sports Club Rajouri delivered an impressive performance at the JK UT State Level Arm Wrestling Championship held in Srinagar, winning a total of eight medals and bringing laurels to the district. Umar emerged as a standout performer, securing two gold medals in both right-hand and left-hand categories. Alyas also excelled, winning four medals including two gold and two silver. Yasir added to the tally with one gold and one [] The post Rajouri athletes win 8 medals at JKUT Arm Wrestling Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
LAHDC deploys new ambulances to boost emergency healthcare in remote areas
Excelsior Correspondent KARGIL, May 14 : Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon today formally handed over newly procured Ecco Ambulances at Qambar Ali Akhoon Memorial (QAAM) Hospital, Kargil for deployment in various health institutions and far-flung areas of the district. The fully equipped Basic life support ambulances have been procured under the District Capex Budget 2025-26 with the objective of strengthening emergency healthcare services and ensuring timely transportation facilities for patients, particularly in remote [] The post LAHDC deploys new ambulances to boost emergency healthcare in remote areas appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
24 JKAP IR Battalion conducts Route March
Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, May 14: The 24 JKAP IR Battalion of the Indian Reserve Police (IRP), Udhampur, conducted a disciplined and well-coordinated Route March today under the leadership of Commandant, Sandeep Mehta, along with Dy Co Nihar Ranjan. The march commenced from the battalion headquarters Sui and covered the designated route through Chaked, Lansi, Dabrimood, Gujjar Morh, and culminated at Pandav Mandir, Krimchi, Udhampur after travelling about 7 Kms on foot. Around 150 officers/officials of the battalion participated in the [] The post 24 JKAP IR Battalion conducts Route March appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Vehicles go jerky on bad roads of city, adjoining areas
Toph Bridge, Vridh Ashram road worst hit Sanjeev K Sharma JAMMU, May 14: The agencies which dig roads for burying cables or pipes have failed to properly reconstruct many of these roads while certain roads in Jammu were not repaired and blacktopped for a long time and all this has turned the vital infrastructure into bad and dilapidated roads in the Smart City of Jammu. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp There are also some roads in the city [] The post Vehicles go jerky on bad roads of city, adjoining areas appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Lecturers Forum demands ACP, regularisation & transfers
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 14: The Central body of the All J&K +2 Lecturers Forum today held a UT-level meeting under the chairmanship of R S Salathia, Chairman of the Forum, for discussion over demands and issues of the lecturers. The meeting was attended by Pardeep Koul, Jammu Division President, and Mohd Younous Gurezi, Kashmir Division President, representing their respective divisions. Pardeep Singh Rakwal, Chief Advisor of the Forum, presided over the virtual session, while RK Padroo coordinated the proceedings. [] The post Lecturers Forum demands ACP, regularisation & transfers appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
3rd Intl Conference RISET2026 concludes
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, May 14: The 3rd International Conference on Research and Innovation in Science, Engineering & Technology (RISET2026) concluded at Yogananda College of Engineering & Technology with a valedictory session attended by academicians, researchers, industry experts and students from India and abroad. The session was graced by chief guest Ravinder Raina, senior leader and National Executive Member of BJP and guest of honour Dr Deepak Kumar, SDM Jammu North. The programme began with a welcome address by Prof (Dr) [] The post 3rd Intl Conference RISET2026 concludes appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
3 vehicles with 15 bovines seized
Excelsior Correspondent RAJOURI, May 14: The police seized three vehicles loaded with bovine animals in Rajouri area last night. Reports said the police under the jurisdiction of Police Station Rajouri, continued its sustained crackdown on the bovine smuggling in the district. During last night multiple naka points were established across Rajouri to intercept bovine smuggling. During the drive police teams led by SHO Rajouri intercepted three vehicles- Tata Mobiles bearing registration Nos. JK02AW-0489; JK02AP-1957 and without number plate Tata Mobile [] The post 3 vehicles with 15 bovines seized appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Samba police rescues 17 bovines
Excelsior Correspondent SAMBA, May 14: Samba Police under the supervision of SSP Samba, Anuj Kumar has foiled a bovine smuggling attempt in the jurisdiction of Police Station (PS) Ghagwal and rescued seventeen (17) bovines. The vehicle used in the illegal transportation of bovines was also seized, officials said. They said acting on an information received from reliable sources, a team of Police Station, Ghagwal intercepted a truck bearing Registration Number JK19A-6155 at Naka NHW Tapyal which was coming from Kathua [] The post Samba police rescues 17 bovines appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Free medical camp organised at village near LoC
Excelsior Correspondent POONCH, May 14 : In a remarkable initiative aimed at extending healthcare facilities to the remotest border areas, the Health Department Poonch organised a comprehensive Free Medical Camp in the extremely forward and strategically sensitive Vibrant Village Dadote in Balakote-Mendhar sector of Poonch district, located barely 200 meters from the LoC. The initiative witnessed active participation of residents of the tiny border hamlet, which has a population of merely 36 comprising men, women and children. Despite its small [] The post Free medical camp organised at village near LoC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
11 vehicles seized for illegal mining
Excelsior Correspondent POONCH, May 14: In a major crackdown on the illegal mining activities, District Police Poonch took strong action against violators involved in unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals and seized 11 vehicles in this connection. Reports said that during a series of enforcement operations conducted by police teams, a total of 11 vehicles engaged in illegal mining activities were intercepted and seized. The seized vehicles include- three dumpers, one tipper, and seven tractor trolleys, found involved in unlawful [] The post 11 vehicles seized for illegal mining appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Police intensify anti-drug drive across Kashmir
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 14: Police today said that under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan, coordinated anti-narcotics operations were carried out across multiple districts including Kulgam, Srinagar, Anantnag, Budgam, Qazigund and Baramulla. A police spokesperson said that illegal properties linked to drug peddlers were demolished in Kulgam and Anantnag, while a residential house and land worth around Rs. 1.20 crore was attached in Srinagar under the NDPS Act. In Anantnag, police also attached eight vehicles linked to drug-related activities and [] The post Police intensify anti-drug drive across Kashmir appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Chairman Save Sharda Committee calls on Chauhan
Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, May 14: Save Sharda Committee chairman, Ravinder Pandita called on Union Minister of Agriculture & Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chauhan here, today. He requested the Minister for widening of Chamkote to Teetwal road and setting up of Yatri Niwas on EP land available near Sharda temple LoC Teetwal Kashmir under his Ministry. This will promote border and religious tourism. The meeting was facilitated by Vivek Tankha , MP. The Minister assured to get it done and [] The post Chairman Save Sharda Committee calls on Chauhan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
7 tractors seized for illegal mining
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, May 14: The police seized seven tractors involved in illegal extraction of minor minerals during separate enforcement actions across Tral and Reshipora areas of Awantipora in south Kashmirs Pulwama district. A police spokesperson said the action was taken as part of ongoing efforts to curb unauthorized mining activities in the region. In the first incident, he said, Police Station Tral detected illegal mining in Gamraz area during routine patrolling and seized four tractors, allegedly being used for [] The post 7 tractors seized for illegal mining appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K witnessing era of peace, progress, prosperity: LG Sinha
Inaugurates Shaurya Gatha Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar Applauds Northern Command, Chinar Corps for completing prestigious project Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday inaugurated the Shaurya Gatha Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Karnah in Kupwara District. The initiative marked a significant milestone in the promotion of battlefield tourism, heritage preservation and border []
J&K Police to decimate Pak gangsters drug network: DGP
Well hunt, hound you & your associates, decimate your evil infrastructure Srinagar: Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Thursday issued a stern warning to Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti for pumping narcotics into India, saying he, along with his associates, will be hunted and hounded, and his evil infrastructure will be decimated. A warning []
If Pak provokes again, what hasnt happened will happen: Rajnath
Jaipur: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday warned Pakistan against terrorism and said India would strike back decisively if provoked again. Addressing a public gathering at Nagaurs Merta town after unveiling a statue of Rajput ruler Rao Duda, Singh said Operation Sindoor had sent a strong message to Pakistan. Perhaps Pakistan will not dare to []
CM Omar-led Cabinet approves SDH Hazratbal upgradation
Srinagar: The Council of Ministers, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has approved the upgradation of Sub-District Hospital Hazratbal by granting relaxation in the buffer zone restrictions under the Srinagar Master Plan2035. The decision was taken during the 6th meeting of the Council of Ministers, with the objective of strengthening healthcare infrastructure and []
Rs 361 crore Integrated Solid Waste Management Project at Achan approved
Srinagar: The Council of Ministers headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has accorded approval for the establishment of an 800 TPD Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) Project at Achan, Srinagar, at an estimated cost of 361 crore. The decision was taken during the 6th meeting of the Council of Ministers with the objective of strengthening []
Maj Gen Sanjeev Dogra (Retd) sanjeev662006@gmail.com Every city reveals its future in small scenes. In Jammu, one such scene is becoming painfully familiar. Outside busy markets, near dhabas and shopping complexes, at petrol pumps and busy chowks, young men sit astride bikes with delivery bags bearing the logos of Blinkit, Zomato, and Swiggy. They stare at their phones, waiting for the next order, the next ride, the next few rupees. There is nothing dishonorable in this work. Work is work. [] The post Boy on Bike, Degree on Wall appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&Ks rise in the LEADS 2025 rankings is a promising moment
The new ranking affirms progress in logistics and regulation, while also highlighting the need for continued investment and policy clarity Jammu and Kashmirs emergence as a High Performer in the LEADS 2025 rankings is more than a statistical improvement; it is a significant signal that the Union Territory is gradually laying the foundations for a stronger, more credible economic future. For a region that was placed in the Aspirers category till 2023 and then moved to Fast Mover in 2024, this latest recognition marks an important transition from intent to visible progress. The LEADS report, prepared by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, is not merely a bureaucratic exercise. It assesses the real conditions that influence trade, movement of goods, regulatory ease and logistics efficiency. In that context, J&Ks climb to the High Performer category suggests that efforts to improve infrastructure, streamline regulation and strengthen the business environment are beginning to produce measurable outcomes. This development deserves appreciation because logistics is not a narrow technical sector. It is the backbone of commerce, agriculture, industry and employment. Better roads, warehousing, transport systems and regulatory coordination directly affect the ability of local producers, traders and entrepreneurs to compete in wider markets. For Jammu and Kashmir, with its geographical challenges and longstanding developmental constraints, improvements in logistics can have transformative consequences. Yet, while the recognition is welcome, celebration should not give way to complacency. Rankings are important, but they are only meaningful if they translate into lower transaction costs, faster market access, stronger industrial confidence and greater opportunities for local enterprise. The ultimate value of this achievement will be measured not in official ceremonies but in the experience of farmers sending produce, manufacturers moving goods, and small businesses seeking reliable connectivity. The administration must therefore treat this honour not as a conclusion, but as a mandate for deeper reform. Sustained investment in logistics infrastructure, transparent governance, digital integration and last-mile connectivity must remain a priority. Special attention must also be given to ensuring that remote areas are not left out of the gains. The rise in the LEADS 2025 rankings reflects steady policy effort, but the real test lies in converting recognition into durable economic transformation. It shows that progress is possible when policy focus is matched by implementation. The task now is to build on this momentum with seriousness and vision so that recognition on paper becomes prosperity on the ground.
Why Indias Children Need More Than Just Food
Nutrition in early childhood is among the highest-return investments a nation can make DR. SARATH GOPALAN A five-year-old girl was brought to my clinic not long ago. She seemed to be behind on her milestones, slower to speak, and less engaged than children her age. Her developmental assessment placed her at the level of a three-year-old. Her mother was concerned. The child had not been ill. There was no diagnosis to point to. But when we spoke about the previous two years of COVID-19, the picture became clearer. Prolonged school closure due to lockdown resulting in spending most of her time at home, screens replacing playtime, and meals being simpler and less varied than before. Her brain, in those quiet years, had not received what it needed to grow. She was not an exception. Across clinics, paediatricians and developmental specialists were seeing the same pattern: healthy children, falling behind. Not because of the virus, but because of everything that came after it. The World Health Organisation tells us that 90% of brain development occurs before the age of five, making the early years the single greatest opportunity we have to shape a childs cognitive, emotional, and social future. The neural connections formed during this window strengthen learning, language, memory, and resilience for life. Getting nutrition right in this period is one of the most powerful investments we can make. Micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and selenium, often described as the neuronutrients, are essential for healthy brain development and function. Yet the data tells us a troubling story. Iron deficiency alone affects approximately 50% of children under five in India (NFHS-5). Anaemia was recorded in 67.1% of children aged under five, up from the previous survey. Recent evidence, including nationally representative analysis of children aged 1259 months, found that over 60% had micronutrient deficiencies with or without anaemia. This points to a far wider nutritional gap than haemoglobin counts alone reveal. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, supports brain architecture, memory formation, and visual development. Choline, another essential nutrient, is now considered essential for brain development. When mothers consume choline during pregnancy, it supports healthy gene activity and cell structure, and growth of key brain regions including the areas responsible for memory and thinking. These nutrients are not optional additions to a childs diet; they are foundational to their potential. The most important nutritional intervention in a childs life begins before birth. Brain development starts in the foetal stage, and a mothers nutritional status directly shapes the neural foundation her child carries into the world. DHA supports neural connectivity in utero; iron and folic acid supplementation during pregnancy reduces the risk of low birth weight and developmental delay. Yet only 44% of pregnant women in India consumed iron-folic acid supplements for the recommended 180 or more days (NFHS-5), a gap that represents an enormous and addressable opportunity. This is why investing in adolescent girls is an investment in the next generation. A well-nourished girl becomes a well-nourished mother, and a well-nourished mother gives her child the best possible start. With 59% of adolescent girls in India anaemic (NFHS-5), prioritising this group through schools, community programmes, and targeted supplementation is one of the effective interventions in the entire continuum of care. Although nutrition is important, brain development requires two parallel inputs: nutritional adequacy and emotional-social stimulation. The pandemic illustrated this powerfully. UNICEF estimates that one in seven children globally experienced significant developmental or learning loss during COVID-19, not primarily from illness, but from the withdrawal of peer interaction, conversation, and play. Screens replaced human connection, and language, motor, and social development suffered. Responsive caregiving, verbal interaction, tactile engagement, and a stimulating environment are neurologically formative and are essential to healthy brain architecture. Early childhood programmes that integrate both nutritional support and developmental stimulation produce outcomes that neither can achieve alone. Indias programme architecture is well-placed to act on it. Programmes like POSHAN Abhiyaan and PM POSHAN already reach millions of mothers and young children across the country. Initiatives like POSHAN Pakhwada demonstrate the power of sustained, community-level mobilisation around nutrition. The delivery architecture, which is the anganwadi network, the frontline workforce, and the community-level reach, is in place. The opportunity now is to deepen what that architecture delivers. With the right training and support, they can expand their role from tracking physical growth to also guiding parents on early stimulation, responsive caregiving, and child development practices. Integrating the WHO and UNICEF Nurturing Care Framework, which connects nutrition, health, safety, early learning, and caregiving into a coherent whole, offers a clear and scientific roadmap for this evolution. It moves the goal from simply feeding children to helping them truly thrive. Nutrition in early childhood is among the highest-return investments a nation can make. When children receive what their developing brains need: the right micronutrients, the right caregiving environment, and the right stimulation, the dividends are lifelong stronger learners, more productive workers, and a more resilient society. India has the ambition of Viksit Bharat. It has the systems. It has the science. What this moment calls for is a shared commitment to treating early childhood nutrition not as a welfare line item, but as the foundation on which everything else is built. (The author is Senior Consultant, Pediatric Gastroenterology at Madhukar Rainbow Childrens Hospital, New Delhi, and President, Nutrition Society of India (NSI). Courtesy: PIB)
Kashmir Literature Festival 2026: A Celebration of Ideas in the Valley
As Srinagar prepares to welcome visitors for the 2026 edition, the Kashmir Literature Festival emerges as a luminous affirmation of the valleys creativity, learning and conversation USHA PANDEY As spring gently recedes into the warmth of summer, the Kashmir Valley prepares once again to welcome a gathering unlike any other. On May 30 and 31, 2026, Srinagar will host the third edition of the Kashmir Literature Festival, an event that, in a remarkably short span of time, has evolved into one of the most significant intellectual and cultural platforms in Jammu and Kashmir. Following the success of its previous editions in 2024 and 2025, the festival has steadily transformed into one of the most compelling intellectual and cultural assemblies in Jammu and Kashmir. More than a literary gathering, it is a meeting ground of minds, cultures, poetries, histories, and ideas. It is set within the timeless beauty of Srinagar, with the luminous waters of Dal Lake reflecting the changing skies and the majestic Himalayan ranges rising like silent sentinels around the Valley. The festival unfolds at the rare intersection of splendour and intellectual gravitas. The Valley itself becomes part of the conversation its landscapes, traditions, memories, and spirit blending naturally with the conversations taking place within the festival halls. Yet the significance of the Kashmir Literature Festival extends far beyond its scenic beauty. It creates a rare space where literature, history, politics, culture, and ideas converge in thoughtful dialogue. space where literature, history, politics, philosophy, culture, identity, and contemporary issues can be discussed openly, thoughtfully, and with intellectual seriousness. Over the course of two days, the festival will bring together an extraordinary assemblage of eminent authors, historians, journalists, diplomats, poets, artists, academics, and public intellectuals from Jammu and Kashmir and across the country. Their presence reflects an increasingly important reality that Kashmir is not merely a destination admired for its natural beauty, but also a crucible of cultural consciousness and intellectual consciousness. The sessions of the festival will traverse an expansive and evocative exchange of perspectives through panel discussions, keynote lectures, debates, philosophy, poetry readings, and interactive dialogues. Conversations will traverse a wide range of themes: the historical evolution of Kashmir, the geopolitics of South Asia, literature and memory, religion and philosophy, questions of identity, changing social landscapes, and the preservation of cultural traditions in a rapidly transforming world. For decades, Kashmir has too often been spoken about rather than spoken with. It has frequently appeared in headlines, analyses, and political rhetoric, yet far less often as a living intellectual and cultural space capable of articulating its own complexities. Perhaps the most stirring dimension of the Kashmir Literature Festival is the audience itself. Students from schools, colleges, and universities participate alongside teachers, writers, entrepreneurs, professionals, artists, and senior citizens. Young people, in particular, bring remarkable energy and curiosity to the event. For many, the festival becomes an opportunity to encounter distinguished voices first-hand, ask questions, exchange ideas, and engage with perspectives from across India and beyond. In an age increasingly dominated by algorithmic outrage, abbreviated opinions, and the tyranny of fleeting attention, the festival reminds audiences that ideas still matter, dialogue still matters, and literature continues to shape societies in quiet but enduring ways. The cultural dimension of the festival is equally vibrant. Alongside literary sessions, audiences enjoy musical performances, poetry recitations, and artistic presentations reflecting both local, unique Kashmiri traditions and national cultural diversity. These performances add warmth and colour to the intellectual atmosphere, making the festival a true celebration of Indias plural heritage. Importantly, the Kashmir Literature Festival broadens the narrative surrounding Jammu and Kashmir. For decades, the region has largely been associated with tourism, natural beauty, fruits, dry fruits, handicrafts, and political tensions. While these remain integral to its identity, festivals like this reveal another equally significant dimension, and that is of a society deeply connected to literature. Its growing success reflects a larger appetite within the Valley for spaces dedicated to ideas, creativity, and intellectual engagement. It also underscores the enduring power of literature and conversation in building understanding, encouraging openness, and fostering social harmony. As Srinagar prepares to welcome visitors for the 2026 edition, the Kashmir Literature Festival emerges as a luminous affirmation of the valleys creativity, learning and conversation. (The Writer is Educator & Teacher. Mentor- Kashmir Literature Festival)
J&Ks inland water transport dream takes shape
76 km Jhelum river cruise corridor from Pantha Chowk to Wular Lake being developed RK News Service Srinagar, May 14: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Thursday reviewed the progress and future roadmap fordevelopment ofinland water transport infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir during a high-levelmeeting held to assess the initiatives beingundertaken by the Transport Department in collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The meeting focused onthe promotion ofsustainable, eco-friendly and modern water transport systems acrossmajor rivers of the Union Territory, with special emphasis on development ofcruise tourism, urban water transport facilities and navigational infrastructure on the notified National Waterways in Jammu and Kashmir. Those who attended include ACS, PWD; Chairperson, IWAI; Secretary, Transport Department; Transport Commissioner; other officers from IWAI; Representatives from line departments and senior officers from the Transport Department. The Chief Secretary reviewed the issues requiring inter-departmental coordination,includingremoval ofcoffer damsunder bridges, raising of HT and LT power lines, provision of electricity and water connections at terminals, construction of connecting roads, sewage treatment facilities at key ghats and permissions related to tree cutting and construction activities. Emphasising the immense tourism, economic and environmental potential of inland waterways in Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Secretarydirected theconcerned departments to work in close coordination with IWAIfortimely execution of allcomponents of the project.He stressed thatdevelopment ofmodern water transport infrastructure would not only provide a sustainable mode of transportation but also significantly enhance tourism potential, generate employment opportunities and create new avenues for economic activity along riverfronts across the Union Territory. He further underscored the needfor ensuringseamless integration of water transport facilities with tourism infrastructure while maintaining ecological sensitivity and preserving the natural character of rivers and surrounding landscapes. During the presentation made byChairperson, IWAI,Sunil Paliwal it was elucidated that significant progress has been achieved on the development of National Waterway-49 onriver Jhelum,where a river cruisecorridor from Pantha Chowk to Wular Lake spanning nearly 76 kilometresis being developed. It was further informed that construction of eight floating jetties along the Jhelum corridor is underway and is expected to be completed by July 2026. The development of associated onshore infrastructure is targeted for completion by July 2027, while installation of navigational aids isscheduled to be completedby July 2026.Fairway maintenance along the river stretch is being carried out jointly by IWAI and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir through deployment ofdredgers to ensure safe and uninterrupted navigation. The meeting was informedthat the procurement of ten hybrid electric boats with a carrying capacity of 20 passengers each is being processed by IWAI, with bids presentlyunder evaluation. The contract is likely to be awarded by May 2026, while delivery of the vessels is expected by March 2027. Reviewing the interventions being undertaken in the Jammu region, the Chief Secretary was informed that cruise tourism infrastructure is also being developed onriver Chenabunder National Waterway-26. A nine-kilometre river cruise stretch from Reasi to Akhnoor Fort is proposed, where construction of two jetties has already been awarded and is expected to be completed by July 2026. Moreover, development of onshore facilities has been entrusted to Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Limited (IPRCL), withpreparation ofDetailed Project Reportpresentlyunderway and expected to be completed by June 2026. The meeting was informed that adequate water depth is available throughout the year for cruise operations in the proposed stretch. Similarly, under National Waterway-84 onriver Ravi,a fifteen-kilometre river cruise corridor is being developed at SoharinJammu district. Construction of jetty has already been awarded and is likely to be completed by July 2026. DPR preparation for onshore facilities is also in progress through IPRCL and expected to be finalised by June 2026, while navigational aids are proposed to be tendered by July 2026 and completed by December 2026. The presentation also highlighted the status of several enabling interventions necessary for smooth navigation and operation of inland waterways. It was informed that eleven land parcels required for various components of the project have been identified, with approvals and transfer formalities at different stages of completion.
Govt clears massive road macadamisation plan across Kashmir
Rs 223 crore proposal to cover 558 km CMs Ganderbal constituency, Advisors hometown Kupwara get lions share Ovaise Gul Srinagar, May 14: Roads across Kashmir are set for a major facelift as the government has approved a massive macadamisation plan this year. The Public Works (Roads and Building) Department has cleared a plan estimated at around Rs 223 crore, including a proposed allocation of nearly Rs 155.83 crore for the macadamisation process, according to documents available with Rising Kashmir. A total of 558.76 kilometres of roads across Kashmir are slated to be macadamized this year, including 178.60 km in central Kashmir, 194.60 km in north Kashmir, and 185.56 km in south Kashmir. As per the figures, 178.60 km of roads in central Kashmir are set to be macadamised at the estimated cost of Rs 7140.00 lakh (Rs 71.40 crore) with a proposed allocation of Rs 4995.50 lakh (Rs 49.9 crore). In north Kashmir, a total of 194.60 km of roads have been figured in the approval plan at the estimated cost of Rs 7784.00 lakh (Rs 77.84 crore) with the proposed allocation of Rs 5248.80 lakh (Rs 52.48 crore). The data reveals that 185.56 km of roads will be macadamized at an estimated cost of Rs 7422.40 lakh (Rs 74.22 crore) with the proposed allocation of Rs 5951.68 (Rs 59.51 crore) this year. The highest number of kilometres of roads are to be macadamized in Advisor to Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wanis home constituency, Kupwara and Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs own constituency, Ganderbal. A total of 20.45 km of roads at an estimated cost of Rs 818 lakh (Rs 8.18 crore) with the proposed allocation of Rs 574.60 lakh (Rs 5.74 crore) are to be macadamized in Kupwara Assembly segment followed by Ganderbal with 18.75 km of roads at an estimated cost of Rs 750 lakh (Rs 7.50 crore) with the proposed allocation of Rs 513.00 lakh (Rs 5.15 crore). The action plan under the Cities and Towns (C&T) Sector Capex Budget 2026-27 has been forwarded to Chief Engineers of all three zones. The Roads & Buildings Department has been authorised to process Administrative Approval and Technical Sanction and initiate tendering. The government has mandated e-tendering for all contracts, prohibited fragmentation or splitting of works during tendering, and allowed only registered contractors to participate. Contractors must deposit the required security amount within 10 days of issuance of the Letter of Intent. No duplication or overlapping with agencies like NHAI, NHIDCL, JMC, SMC, Beacon, or Sampark will be allowed. Chief Engineers and field officers have been directed to personally supervise and periodically inspect works to ensure timely completion and quality control. No road falling under the Defect Liability Period will be taken up again for macadamization or repairs.
CM Omar-led Cabinet clears two major projects
SDH Hazratbal upgradation & 800 TPD waste plant at Achan RK News Service Srinagar, May 14: The Council of Ministers, chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, on Thursday approved two major projectsthe upgradation of Sub-District Hospital Hazratbal by relaxing buffer zone restrictions and the establishment of an 800 TPD Integrated Solid Waste Management Project at Achan at a cost of361 crore. The Cabinet approved the upgradation of SDH Hazratbal by granting relaxation in buffer zone restrictions under the Srinagar Master Plan2035. The project had remained stalled for several years due to buffer zone provisions, causing considerable inconvenience to the public. With the approval, the hospital is expected to be equipped with expanded infrastructure, including blood bank services, operation theatres and specialised treatment facilities. The move aims to reduce the need for patients to seek treatment elsewhere. Locals expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister, saying the hospital currently suffers from severe space constraints and the upgradation will ease public difficulties. The Cabinet also approved the 800 TPD Integrated Solid Waste Management Project at Achan, Srinagar, at an estimated cost of361 crore, aimed at strengthening scientific waste management infrastructure in the city. The project is expected to enhance waste processing capacity through modern systems for collection, segregation, treatment and disposal of solid waste, improving sanitation standards and reducing environmental pollution. The facility will address growing waste management requirements due to rapid urban expansion and population growth.
Will hunt down drug syndicates, cross-border handlers: DGP Abid Bashir Srinagar, May 14: Director General of Police (DGP) NalinPrabhat on Thursday saidthat Pakistan-sponsoredterrorism andnarco trade remain the biggest threats facing Jammu andKashmir, asserting thatpolice will continue an aggressive crackdown on drug syndicates, cross-border handlers and terror-linked narcotics networks. Addressing a press conference at the Police Control Room (PCR) here, the DGP said that the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan has significantly intensified anti-drug operations across Jammu and Kashmir. He said police have shown consistent performance in the war against narcotics since 2023, particularly in property attachments, preventive detentions and seizure of contraband substances.There has been a sustained increase in attachment of properties linked with narcotics trafficking from 2023 to 2026. J&K Police has been ranked number three nationally during 2025 in this regard, he said. The DGP said that 240 PIT-NDPS detentions were carried out in 2025, for which J&K Police ranked first in the country. Specifically under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, there has been nearly a seven-fold increase in NDPS cases compared to last year, he said. He said 806 persons involved in the narcotics trade have been arrested in 724 NDPS cases registered across Jammu and Kashmir. Among the major arrests was that of Gulzar Ahmad alias Love Gujar, who was wanted in 28 cases and Avneet Singh alias Nagi, who was wanted in 17 cases in Jammu province, he said. Prabhat said police seized 667 kilograms of narcotics and over 90,000units of psychotropic substancesduring the campaign.Preventive action has also been taken against 24 habitual drug offenders, he added. The DGP further said 97 properties worth Rs 41.85 crore linked with narcotics trafficking have been identified and attached so far. Anantnag Police attached properties worth Rs 6.17 crore in a single case. In a first-of-its-kind, J&K Police has attached properties beyond the territorial limits of J&K, including one each in Gurdaspur, Pathankot and Chandigarh, he said. He added that Kulgam Police also attached properties worth Rs 93 lakh in the Beni Charana area of Jammu to establish backward linkages in narcotics cases. The police chief said 41 properties worth nearly Rs 15croreidentified as proceeds ofthe narcotics trade have also been demolished after following due legal process. Illicit poppy and cannabis cultivation spread over 117 kanals of land has been destroyed during the drive, he said. Prabhat said there has been a focused inspection of pharmaceutical establishments. At least 5,238 chemists and drug shops were checked while action was initiated against 151 erring establishments. 4,962 kilograms of narcotics and 6,493 units of psychotropic substances were disposed of during the campaign, he said. The DGP said driving licences of 162 persons involved in narcotics cases were either cancelled or suspended, while registration certificates of 92 vehicles used in drug trafficking were also cancelled or suspended. Besides, recommendations have been made for impounding 10 passports linked to narcotics-related activities, he said.
Sports becoming strong pillar of anti-drug campaign: LG
Inaugurates South Kashmir Volleyball League in Shopian Says youth no longer spectators, will build own future Younus Rashid Shopian, May 14: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinhaon Thursday inaugurated the South Kashmir Volleyball League-2026 at the Indoor Sports Stadium, Shopian andsaid every serve, spike and dive during the tournament reflects the determination of youth to overcome challenges and move ahead as part of the nations mainstream. Addressing agathering after inaugurating the league, the LG said the tournament was not merely a sports event but a message that youth would no longer remain spectators and would build their own future. Every serve, every spike and every dive during this four-day tournament is a declaration that the energy of our youth is overcoming challenges on the path of progress, and that they are moving forward as an integral part of the nations mainstream, he said. Sinha said the leaguewasstarted a few years ago to provide a unique platform to youth and added that the Sports Department and Sports Council have succeeded in nurturing talent and promoting a new sports culture in the region.He said the tournament would also become a strong pillar of the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir campaign. The Lieutenant Governor said nearly 40,000youthacross Jammu and Kashmir have so farbeen connected withvolleyball competitions and sports activities. These are not just numbers but the foundation of a new generation, he said. Referring to the achievements of players from Jammu and Kashmir, he said the youth won a bronze medal in the 48th Junior National Volleyball Championship in 2022 and secured a gold medal in the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 held in Bihar. Sinha said sports infrastructure projects worth Rs 22 crore have been developed in Shopian during the last five years, including the cricket stadium at Wachi, synthetic basketball and volleyball courts atRangkadal andfootball turf at Rajat. The LG said additional projects worth around Rs 8.5 crore are currently under execution in Shopian and added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to strengthening sports infrastructure for youth in Jammu and Kashmir. He said 20 Khelo India Centres are functioning across South Kashmir, where around 600 trainees are receiving regular coaching and sports equipment. Five of these centres, he said, are located in Shopian. Every sporting talent in South Kashmir should receive proper opportunities and guidance, Sinha said, adding that role models in society should guide the younger generation and help youth trapped in drug addiction return to the right path. The LG said he would visit Shopian again within the next few days for the Nasha Mukt padyatra and appealed to people to participate in large numbers. Speaking on the anti-drug campaign, the Lieutenant Governor said the Jammu and Kashmir Policewastaking strict action against drug traffickers. If action is taken against even a single innocent person, the concerned officer will be held accountable. But those trying to protect drug smugglers should understand that no power in the world can save them, he said.
J&K was, is, will always remain integral part of India: LG Sinha
Says UT witnessing era of peace, progress while PoK suffers neglect, misgovernance Inaugurates Shaurya Gatha Complex at Tangdhar to promote battlefield tourism RK News Service Tangdhar, May 14: Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing an era of peace, progress and prosperity while Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) continues to suffer from neglect and misgovernance, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said onThursday as he reaffirmedthat J&K was, is, and will always remain an integral part of India. The LG was speaking after inaugurating the Shaurya Gatha Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Kupwara district, a project aimed at promoting battlefield tourism and border area development. J&K is moving forward with development on all fronts. There is a renewed sense of self-confidence, and society is more prosperous and peaceful than ever before, the LG said. He applauded the Northern Command, Chinar Corps, and all officers, soldiers,engineers, workforce, and local residents for completing the prestigious project in a short span oftime. The dedication of our forces and people is thetrue strength of the nation.The Shaurya Gatha Complex stands as a tribute to the valour and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. This initiative will create new opportunities for border area and battlefield tourism, homestays, local crafts, and youth entrepreneurship, Sinha said. He reiterated that the administration is committed to the development of the border region, observing that initiatives likethe promotion of valour sites under the Bharat Rannbhoomi Darshan initiative will usher in economic growth and prosperity in the Tangdhar-Karnah region, besides showcasing the rich defence legacy and culture. Sevenvillages ofTangdhar and Karnah have been included under the Vibrant Village Programme, ensuring improved infrastructure, livelihood opportunities, and quality of life. Highlighting the importance of the Sadhna Tunnel, the LG stated it will significantly enhance connectivity, security, and economic activity by providing all-weather access and facilitating trade, education, healthcare, and disaster response. I urge citizens across the nation tovisitShaurya Gatha Complex and plan their holidays at the offbeat destinations of Kupwara, the LG said. The Lieutenant Governor lauded the Army fortheirsignificant contribution to the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaign, noting that Tangdhar remains a strategic location where the neighbour persistently attempts to escalate narco-smuggling activities. He called upon the police and security forces to maintain the highest level of alertness and ensure foolproof surveillance so that no illegal drugs enter Indian territory. He expressed deepest gratitude to the people, especially school students, for their unwavering support of the Nasha Mukt J&K campaign. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, GOC-in-C Northern Command; Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, GOC Chinar Corps; MLA Karnah Javaid Ahmad Mirchal; Additional Chief Secretary Power Development Ashwani Kumar; senior officers from the army, civil administration, police, and security forces.
The Silent Crisis in J&Ks Government Schools
The decline of government schools in Jammu and Kashmir is no longer a distant warning; it is an active, unfolding emergency NASIR RASHEED Across Jammu and Kashmir, from smart cities to remote villages, government schools are falling apart. They stand as sad reminders of broken promises. The paint peels from wet walls, and the buildings offer no protection against the bitter winter cold or the scorching summer heat. Worst of all is the deep silence inside these empty classrooms. A school meant to echo with the chatter of hundreds of children now sees only a handful of students scattered across rows of empty, dusty benches. A couple of overworked teachers shuffle between classrooms, attempting the impossible task of teaching multiple grades simultaneously. This is not an isolated incident; it is a recurring vignette across the Union Territory. The most glaring symptom of this systemic decay is not just the crumbling brick and mortar, but the alarming, unprecedented drop in student enrolment. The classrooms are emptying and with them, the hope for a brighter future. Across India, the education sector is undergoing a vibrant, dynamic transformation, propelled by the visionary National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the progressive National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023. The grand, modern visions of the NEP seem like distant mirages to institutions that are struggling daily for basic drinking water, functional toilets and adequate teaching staff. The tragedy of this decline is magnified by the fact that these government schools are not merely alternative options; they are the very backbone of educational development in Jammu and Kashmir. A school cannot function as a sanctuary for learning if the building itself is fighting a losing battle against the elements. In many areas of J&K, government schools suffer from a glaring lack of basic amenities. Students and teachers are forced to endure inadequate, overcrowded classrooms with broken furniture and leaking roofs. Teacher shortages are chronic, exacerbated by instances of absenteeism and the frequent, disruptive deployment of existing teaching staff for non-educational administrative duties. However, the most significant and frustrating issue lies in the systemic paralysis of hiring: there has been no new teacher recruitment in J&K by the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) since 2017. Because of this years-long freeze on recruitment, thousands of qualified B.Ed. and M.Ed. professionals are facing a severe unemployment crisis. These are young, driven professionals thoroughly trained in the pedagogy, methodology and philosophy of teaching. While the modern world moves toward interactive, tech-driven and child-centric education, J&Ks government schools remain stuck in the past. Outdated teaching methods relying heavily on rote memorisation continue to dominate, primarily because the majority of teachers lack access to modern teaching resources, digital smart boards or updated teaching-learning materials. Students passing through this fractured system frequently fail to meet basic age-appropriate literacy and numeracy benchmarks, leaving them entirely unprepared to compete with their privately educated peers in the real world. As confidence in state-run education plummets, an unprecedented exodus is underway. Driven by sheer desperation, even low-income families are making agonising financial sacrifices, scraping together whatever meagre funds they can to enroll their children in private institutions. Parents are willing to cut back on basic household necessities rather than gamble with their childrens futures in empty, under-resourced classrooms. Perhaps the most glaring indictment of this systemic failure is a profound, open irony: government school teachers themselves overwhelmingly choose to send their own wards to private schools. It begs a devastating question: if the very educators tasked with running these institutions lack faith in them, how can the public be expected to trust them? Over the past decade, a disturbing administrative trend has emerged where thousands of government schools have been clubbed or merged with nearby institutions, effectively shuttering vital educational hubs across various localities. In a region experiencing steady population growth, logic dictates a proportional expansion of educational infrastructure; instead, Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a paradoxical and alarming contraction. Consequently, a growing number of students, particularly those in geographically challenging areas, are being stripped of their localised access to learning. This systematic closure is not merely an administrative oversight; it is a direct violation of the constitutional guarantees enshrined in Article 21A and Article 45 of the Indian Constitution, which mandate free and compulsory education for children. Furthermore, it blatantly contradicts the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically the global commitment to inclusive and equitable education, thereby reducing what is universally recognised as a basic, fundamental human right into an inaccessible privilege for the regions most vulnerable youth. This mass migration to the private sector does not happen in a vacuum; it leaves behind a devastating trail of widening inequality. It is crucial to recognise that in Jammu and Kashmir, the majority of the population is currently grappling with severe financial instability and a pervasive job crisis. Ultimately, the decay of public education in J&K is not merely an administrative failure; it is an active engine of systemic inequality. It is carving a deep socio-economic chasm where the privileged can buy their way toward a brighter future, while the underprivileged are left trapped in a relentless cycle of limited opportunities and broken promises. To reverse this alarming decline and rescue the future of millions of children in Jammu & Kashmir, piecemeal reforms and temporary administrative bandages will no longer suffice. What is urgently required is a comprehensive, multi-pronged overhaul of the entire government school ecosystem, backed by unwavering political will and grassroots community action. The immediate first step is to ensure that schools are safe, dignified and inviting spaces for learning. A school cannot foster 21st-century learning if its foundation is crumbling. Upgrading these physical spaces sends a powerful psychological message to students and parents alike: that the state values their future. The lifeblood of any educational institution is its teaching staff, and J&Ks schools are currently on life support. The government must immediately lift the indefinite freeze on hiring that has paralysed the system since 2017. Initiating fresh, transparent and expedited teacher recruitment
Dragon-Sickness: How Indias Cultural Fondness of Gold Can Become a Currency Crisis?
When Countrys PM starts talking about necklaces, watch the reserves. Not the speech AZHAR HUSSAIN Over the last few days, the Prime Minister of India went on national television and asked 1.4 billion people to do the unthinkable. Cancel their foreign vacations, stop driving to work and immediately stop buying gold. The media called it an appeal for financial patriotism. They are misreading the signal entirely. When a government urges its citizens to stop purchasing a precious metal, the word for that is not patriotism. The word is desperation, and something serious that is about to happen. In Tolkiens mythology, dragon-sickness is the madness that takes hold of men who stare too long at gold hoards. They begin to covet compulsively, unable to distinguish what they need from what they merely want, until the treasure becomes the very thing that destroys them. India, one of the fastest-growing major economies on earth, has spent five thousand years building precisely that relationship with gold. The bill is now due in US dollars. Here is the brutal arithmetic. India imports more than 87 percent of its crude oil. Because of escalating conflict across the Middle East and the destabilisation of Hormuz supply routes, the price of that oil is skyrocketing. India cannot buy foreign oil with rupees. It must buy it with US dollars. Every time the price of a barrel ticks upward, Indias foreign exchange reserves haemorrhage outward. The rupee has crashed to 95 against the dollar. It is the lowest in decades, and the Reserve Bank of India is running dangerously low on the ammunition required to defend it. The central bank can intervene by selling dollars and buying rupees, but that intervention is finite. Once the reserves are gone, they are gone. The US-Iran conflict makes this sharper still. The wider destabilisation of Gulf supply routes has introduced a volatility premium into global crude pricing that no single nation can negotiate its way out of. India has no meaningful leverage over the cartels, the militias or the shipping lanes. What it theoretically does have leverage over is the behaviour of its own consumers. India is one of the largest consumers of physical gold on earth. Last year Indians imported over 721 tonnes of gold valued at $71.9 billion, accounting for close to ten percent of the entire national import bill. That figure is not an abstraction. It is a direct transfer of US dollars out of the country and into the vaults of Dubai and Zurich, one wedding necklace and one festival bangle at a time. Unlike oil, which at least powers the electrical grid, the factories, the vehicles & our economy at large, gold is a wealth sink. It produces nothing. It generates no electricity, refines no fuel and builds no infrastructure. From the governments perspective, it is approx $72 billion worth of pure foreign exchange bleeding from a wound it cannot stitch closed from the outside. The logic of the Prime Minister Modis appeal, stripped of its patriotic framing, is this. If gold consumption can be halved for two years, the government instantly plugs a $72 billion hole in the current account deficit. That is real money. That is the kind of number that stabilises a currency, calms a bond market and buys a central bank the breathing room it needs to manage an oil shock without resorting to emergency rate hikes that would choke off domestic growth. It is one of the most extraordinary macroeconomic interventions attempted in modern history. A government trying to save a fiat currency by manually suspending a five-thousand-year-old cultural reflex. During the Congress era, such appeals were also made, but the situation in the Middle East was not this much precarious. The appeals to cut overseas travel and reduce discretionary fuel use follow the same logic at a smaller scale. Foreign holidays export dollars. Private driving increases demand for the imported crude that is already draining the reserves. Every litre saved and every cancelled flight to Paris or Bangkok is, in aggregate, a marginal act of currency defence. The government cannot control the price of oil on the global market. It can try to control the volume India consumes. This is what dragon-sickness looks like in macroeconomic terms. The hoard that once felt like wealth, the gold stacked in family lockers across every state in the country, has quietly become a structural vulnerability. Cultural traditions are extraordinarily difficult to price correctly until the moment they become expensive. India is having that moment now. The deeper lesson here is not about gold at all. It is about the danger of building an economy that is simultaneously enormous in ambition and fragile in its external dependencies. A nation that imports 87 percent of its energy has effectively handed a veto over its domestic prosperity to whoever controls the price of crude. A nation that spends approx $72 billion a year on a non-productive asset while that same foreign exchange is desperately needed to pay energy bills is not just culturally attached to gold. It is structurally exposed by it. We must stop watching the stock market & look at the foreign reserves. The stock market tells you what investors feel today. The foreign reserves tell you how long the country can survive tomorrow. When those reserves fall fast enough that a Prime Minister has to go on television and ask womenfolk to stop buying bangles, you are no longer watching a policy speech. You are watching a nation reckon with the cost of its own gold-wearing culture. The coming months will determine whether voluntary public cooperation can do what conventional policy tools are struggling to achieve. If oil prices ease and the rupee stabilises, the appeal will be remembered as prudent, and the PM will be credited with foresight. If they do not, this moment will be remembered as the point at which India discovered that five thousand years of cultural habit had become, in the age of the petrodollar, a genuine threat
PMs Austerity Call Echoes Er Rashids Simplicity Politics: AIP
RK News Service Srinagar, May 14 : Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi has welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modis call for austerity and reduction in unnecessary official expenditure, saying the initiative reflects a responsible and people-centric approach towards governance. He also appreciated Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir Manoj Sinha for following the same spirit by cutting down excessive protocol and official extravagance. Inam Un Nabi said the austerity measures now being implemented at the highest levels of governance were in fact ideas long advocated by Member of Parliament from North Kashmir, Engineer Rashid. He said since the day Er Rashid was elected as MLA for the first time, he neither kept a government vehicle nor believed in moving with security or long official convoys. He added that Er Rashid always maintained that people themselves are the biggest security for a public representative and that elected leaders should never become a burden on the state exchequer while common masses continue to face economic hardships. Inam Un Nabi said Er Rashid repeatedly appealed to leaders of other political parties to adopt a simple and accessible style of politics and avoid wasting public money on luxury and protocol. Perhaps this simplicity and fearless public approach was one of the reasons many traditional political leaders were uncomfortable with him, he remarked.
Ashok Bhan Backs Congress Choice of VD Satheesan as Kerala CM
RK News Service Srinagar, May 14: Senior Congress leader and legal expert Ashok Bhan on Thursday welcomed the Congress high commands decision to appoint V. D. Satheesan as the next Chief Minister of Kerala, describing the move as politically appropriate and balanced. In a statement, Bhan said the decision reflected sound political judgment and highlighted the leadership and collective wisdom of the party high command, including Rahul Gandhi. He said that although the delay in announcing the decision had drawn criticism, the final choice carried both credibility and political significance. Bhan described Satheesan as a grassroots leader with strong public connect and said the decision conveyed an important message that merit, public acceptance and organisational experience continue to matter within the Congress party.
Teen Found Dead in South Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A teenage boy from a nomadic community was found dead in the High Ground Sarnal area of south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Thursday evening. Officials said that the deceased has been identified as Mohammad Majid Doyi, son of Mohammad Iqbal Doyi, a resident of Kandyal Katra. They said the youth was found hanging outside []
Hundreds Get Anti-rabies Shots After Contaminated Meat Sold in Pulwama
SRINAGAR: Panic and anxiety spread across Parigam area of south Kashmirs Pulwama district after meat from an ill bovine animal, slaughtered by a local butcher, was sold to dozens of residents, prompting hundreds of people to visit the Primary Health Centre (PHC) for precautionary anti-rabies vaccination. The incident triggered widespread concern after rumours surfaced that []
Jammu Kashmir Poised to Begin Inland Water Transport Services Soon
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is moving ahead with the development of inland water transport infrastructure across key river systems, with focus on cruise tourism, sustainable mobility and river-based connectivity, officials said during a high-level review chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo. The meeting assessed ongoing and planned projects being implemented by the Transport Department in []
Jammu Kashmir Fast Bowler Selected for India A Team
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir pacer Yudhvir Singh Charak has been included in the India A squad for the upcoming three-match One-Day series, marking an important advancement in his professional cricket career and a notable achievement for emerging talent from the region. Born on September 13, 1997 in Roop Nagar, Jammu, the right-arm medium-fast bowler has []
FIR Registered Against Social Media Page For Uploading Provocative Content In J&Ks Udhampur
JAMMU, May 14: Police have registered an FIR against a social media page for allegedly circulating provocative and inflammatory content related to a sensitive issue reported from a village in Jammu and Kashmirs Udhampur district, officials said. According to the police, an FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and an investigation into the matter has been initiated. Officials said that provocative and inflammatory videos and content were allegedly uploaded and circulated through the [] The post FIR Registered Against Social Media Page For Uploading Provocative Content In J&Ks Udhampur appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NITs Kashmir Scholar Bags IndiaAI Fellowship for Research on Bias in AI Models
SRINAGAR:In a significant achievement for the regions academic and research community, National Institute of Technology Srinagar has secured national recognition after its M-Tech scholar Womika Khan was awarded the prestigious IndiaAI Fellowship for 202526. Womika, a student of Computer Science and Engineering, earned the fellowship for her research project titled Trustworthy AI: Investigating and Mitigating []
LG Sinha Inaugurates South Kashmir Volleyball League 2026 in Shopian
SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday inaugurated the South Kashmir Volleyball League 2026 at Shopian and underscored the role of sports in youth engagement and social transformation. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated a Multipurpose Indoor Sports Hall at Arhama, constructed at a cost of Rs 4.94 crore, dedicating the facility to []
KPDCL Announces Scheduled Power Shutdowns Across Kashmir
SRINAGAR: The Chief Engineer, Distribution, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has announced a series of planned shutdowns on multiple 33 KV transmission lines across north Kashmir and other areas during May 2026. According to the department, the 33 KV DelinaDelina line will remain under shutdown on May 16 and May 19 from 09:00 am []
South Kashmir: Food Safety Dept Seizes Fake Basel Seed Drink Worth Rs 3.56 Lakh During Raids
SRINAGAR: The Food Safety Department in south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Thursday seized 150 cases of Basel Seed Drink, worth nearly Rs 3.56 lakh, during raids conducted across the district following inputs that the product was being falsely marketed as an imported American brand. Officials said the raids were carried out at multiple locations and []
High Court Forms Adhoc Body For Judicial Officers Association in Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh
SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has constituted an adhoc managing body for the registration and transitional functioning of the Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh Judicial Officers Association. According to an order issued by the Registrar General, the move comes in continuation of High Court Order No. 717 of 2026/RG dated May 13 []
Committee Framed For Implementation Of J&K MSME Health Clinic Initiative
JAMMU, May 14: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has constituted a committee for implementation of the J&K MSME Health Clinic initiative aimed at supporting Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Union Territory. See Order Copy Click Here The post Committee Framed For Implementation Of J&K MSME Health Clinic Initiative appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K Poised To Begin Inland Water Transport Services Soon
CS assesses progress achieved in partnership with IWAI SRINAGAR, May 14: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo today reviewed the progress and future roadmap for development of inland water transport infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir during a high-level meeting held to assess the initiatives being undertaken by the Transport Department in collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The meeting focused on the promotion of sustainable, eco-friendly and modern water transport systems across major rivers of the Union Territory, with [] The post J&K Poised To Begin Inland Water Transport Services Soon appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
We Will Hunt And Hound You: J&K DGPs Warning To ISI-Backed Gangster, Narco-Terror Networks
Srinagar, May 14: Jammu and Kashmir Police chief Nalin Prabhat on Thursday issued a stern warning to Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti for pumping narcotics into India, saying he, along with his associates, will be hunted and hounded, and his evil infrastructure will be decimated. A warning to Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti who is ISIs acolyte and partner in pumping narcotics into India; we will hunt and hound you and your associates, and decimate your evil infrastructure, the Jammu and Kashmir Director [] The post We Will Hunt And Hound You: J&K DGPs Warning To ISI-Backed Gangster, Narco-Terror Networks appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Lieutenant Governor inaugurates Shaurya Gatha Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Kupwara
SRINAGAR, MAY 14: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the Shaurya Gatha Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Karnah in Kupwara District. The initiative marked a significant milestone in the promotion of battlefield tourism, heritage preservation and border area development. The Lieutenant Governor applauded Northern Command, Chinar Corps, and all officers, soldiers, engineers, workforce [] The post Lieutenant Governor inaugurates Shaurya Gatha Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Kupwara appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
High Court Forms Adhoc Body For Judicial Officers Association In J&K, Ladakh
Srinagar, May 14: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has constituted an adhoc managing body for the registration and transitional functioning of the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh Judicial Officers Association. According to an order issued by the Registrar General, the move comes in continuation of High Court Order No. 717 of 2026/RG dated May 13 and Order No. 719 of 2026/RG dated May 14. As per the order, District Judge Naseer Ahmad Dar has been nominated [] The post High Court Forms Adhoc Body For Judicial Officers Association In J&K, Ladakh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Infiltration To Inspiring Tales: Museum, Checkpoint Open At Historic War Site Along LoC
SADHANA PASS (J-K), May 14: The treacherous terrain surrounded by snowcapped peaks was once known for infiltration from Pakistan occupied Kashmir, the pass is named after yesteryear actor Sadhana. On Thursday, that past, infamous and famous, dovetailed into the present with the inauguration of a checkpost and a war museum in the lofty heights. This is a message from the entire nation that we always remember our brave soldiers and will always remember them the mountains stand as witness to [] The post Infiltration To Inspiring Tales: Museum, Checkpoint Open At Historic War Site Along LoC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
LG Inaugurates Indias Highest Astro Turf Football Ground, Synthetic Track In Leh
LEH/JAMMU, May 13: Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, on Tuesday, inaugurated Indias highest Astro Turf football ground, constructed at an altitude of 11,500 feet, along with a newly-built VIP Stand and an 8-lane synthetic athletic track at the open stadium in Leh. The modern sports infrastructure, developed at a cost of over Rs 30 crore, marks a major milestone in strengthening world-class sporting facilities in Ladakh, officials said. The VIP stand at the open [] The post LG Inaugurates Indias Highest Astro Turf Football Ground, Synthetic Track In Leh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K | Gangster Detained Under PSA In Samba
Jammu, May 14: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday detained an alleged gangster under the Public Safety Act (PSA) in Samba for his involvement in unlawful possession of weapons and narcotics-related offences, officials said. The police identified the accused as Pritam Singh alias Sethi, a resident of Jerda village in Ramgarh tehsil of Samba. According to the officials, the action was taken by Samba Police, following the accuseds repeated involvement in criminal activities across Samba, Jammu and Kathua districts. They [] The post J&K | Gangster Detained Under PSA In Samba appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Lieutenant Governor inaugurates South Kashmir Volleyball League-2026 at Shopian
Srinagar, May 14: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday inaugurated the South Kashmir Volleyball League-2026 at Shopian. He also dedicated the Multipurpose Sports Indoor Hall at Arhama constructed at a cost of Rs 4.94 crore to the Youth. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor hailed sports tournaments like South Kashmir Volleyball League as a powerful declaration of the youths transition from spectators to the architects of their own destiny. He emphasized that the league started in 2021, has emerged as a major platform for youth engagement, promotion of competitive sports culture and strengthening of volleyball activities across South Kashmir. South Kashmir Volleyball League is significantly contributing towards the campaign of Nasha Mukt J&K by promoting sports as a positive avenue for youth participation and social transformation, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor stated that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we have laid a strong foundation for the youth to realise their dreams and showcase their immense talent at national and international sports arena. By engaging large number of youth across the Union Territory in volleyball and various sporting activities and national integration programmes, the administration is successfully channeling the energy of the youth toward nation-building. Every serve and every spike on this volleyball court is a message that our youth are confronting challenges and moving forward as an integral part of the national mainstream, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that Shopian is at the heart of South Kashmirs sports revolution. Approximately Rs 22 crore spent on sports infrastructure in Shopian over the last six years. Ongoing works worth Rs 8.80 crore are currently underway in the district. 20 Khelo India centers are operational across South Kashmir, with five in Shopian alone, providing training and equipment to 600 regular trainees, he said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also appealed to the young sportspersons to act as role models and mentors and guide new generation towards a drug-free, brighter and healthier future. He also reiterated the administrations resolve to eliminate the narco-terror ecosystem from Jammu Kashmir. The four day South Kashmir Volleyball League is being organized by Volleyball Association J&K and Jammu Kashmir Sports Council. Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services & Sports; Shabir Ahmad Kullay, Member Legislative Assembly from Shopian; Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Commissioner Secretary to Government, Youth Services and Sports; Javid Iqbal Matoo, DIG South Kashmir; Shishir Gupta Deputy Commissioner Shopian; Mushtaq Ahmad Choudhary, SSP Shopian; Nuzhat Gul, Secretary J&K Sports Council, senior officers of Police and civil administration, members of Volleyball Association, prominent citizens, sports personalities and youth in large number attended the inaugural function.
EC Announces Staggered Rollout Of SIR Phase 3 In 16 States, 3 UTs
NEW DELHI, May 14: The Election Commission on Thursday announced the rollout of phase 3 of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in 16 states and three Union Territories involving 36.73 crore voters in a phased manner beginning May 30. The states and UTs where the SIR will be carried out are Delhi, Odisha, Mizoram, Sikkim, Manipur, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, Telangana, Punjab, Karnataka, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Tripura, Dadar and Nagar Haveli and Daman [] The post EC Announces Staggered Rollout Of SIR Phase 3 In 16 States, 3 UTs appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Lieutenant Governor inaugurates 'Shaurya Gatha' Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Kupwara
Srinagar, May 14: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the 'Shaurya Gatha' Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Karnah in Kupwara District. The initiative marked a significant milestone in the promotion of battlefield tourism, heritage preservation and border area development. The Lieutenant Governor applauded Northern Command, Chinar Corps, and all officers, soldiers, engineers, workforce and local residents for the completion of the prestigious project in a short span of time. He said our brave soldiers laid down their lives to defend the motherland, and their courage and sacrifice should be instilled in every Indian as a powerful source of pride and inspiration. The dedication of our forces and people is the true strength of the nation. The Shaurya Gatha Complex stands as a tribute to the valour and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. This initiative will create new opportunities for border area and battlefield tourism, homestays, local crafts and youth entrepreneurship, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the stark contrast between development on this side of the Line of Control and the conditions in illegally Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, noting that Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing an era of peace, progress and prosperity, while PoJK continues to suffer from neglect and misgovernance. He reaffirmed that Jammu & Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral part of India. Jammu & Kashmir is moving forward with development on all fronts. There is a renewed sense of self-confidence, and the society is prosperous and peaceful than ever before, the Lieutenant Governor said. He also reiterated that the administration is committed to the development of the border region. He observed that the initiative like promotion of valour site under Bharat Rannbhoomi Darshan initiative will usher economic growth and prosperity in Tangdhar-Karnah region, besides showcasing the rich defence legacy and culture of the region. He said that seven villages of Tangdhar, Karnah have been included under the Vibrant Village Programme, ensuring improved infrastructure, livelihood opportunities and quality of life. Highlighting the importance of the Sadhna Tunnel, the Lieutenant Governor stated that it will significantly enhance connectivity, security, and economic activity in the region by providing all-weather access and facilitating trade, education, healthcare and disaster response. I urge citizens across the nation to visit Shaurya Gatha Complex and plan their holidays at the offbeat destinations of Kupwara, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also lauded the Army for their significant contribution to the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaign. Tangdhar remains a strategic location where our neighbour persistently attempt to escalate narco-smuggling activities. The development of an airport-like facility by the Army in the region will serve as a critical asset in our mission against drug smuggling, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also called upon the police department and security forces to maintain the highest level of alertness. Our surveillance must be foolproof to ensure that no illegal drugs enters our territory, he further said. He also expressed his deepest gratitude to the people, especially the school students for their unwavering support to Nasha Mukt J&K campaign. Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Northern Command; Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, GOC Chinar Corps; Javaid Ahmad Mirchal, Member of Legislative Assembly Karnah; Ashwani Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department; Maj Gen Rakesh Nair; GOC 28 Infantry Division; Brig Dharmendra Yadav, Commander, Shakti Vijay Bde, senior officers from the Army, Civil Administration, Police and Security Forces attended the inaugural ceremony.
Lanka court remands prominent Buddhist monk in child sexual abuse case
COLOMBO, May 14: A Sri Lankan court on Thursday remanded one of the most prominent Buddhist monks of the island nation in a case of sexual abuse of a minor girl. The Colombo Fort magistrates court served the remand order on 71-year-old Pallegama Hemarathana, chief priest of a prominent Buddhist temple. The court ordered that the monk be kept in remand until May 22 and be transferred to the National Hospital from a private hospital where he had been warded [] The post Lanka court remands prominent Buddhist monk in child sexual abuse case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Trump, Xi hold talks in biggest summit ever
BEIJING, May 14: US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping began on Thursday what the American leader termed as the biggest summit ever to discuss a wide range of issues, including the Iran war and bilateral trade frictions. Trump, who arrived in Beijing last night to a rousing reception, told Xi in their first meeting on Thursday that he looks forward to a big discussion with him. There are those who say this is maybe the biggest [] The post Trump, Xi hold talks in biggest summit ever appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Malaysia slams Norway for revoking export license for naval missile system
KUALA LUMPUR, May 14: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Thursday condemned Norways move to revoke the export license for a naval missile system for Malaysias navy, warning it could damage confidence in European defence suppliers. Anwar said he raised Malaysias vehement objection during a phone call with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre, after Oslo blocked delivery of the Naval Strike Missile system and launcher components intended for Malaysias littoral combat ship programme. Malaysia has honoured every obligation under [] The post Malaysia slams Norway for revoking export license for naval missile system appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
