Five Killed as 5.5-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Peru
SRINAGAR: At least five people were killed and more than 20 injured after a 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck Perus Andes region late on Sunday, according to local authorities. The US Geological Survey (USGS) said the earthquake struck at 9:24 pm local time, with its epicentre located 2 kilometres west-southwest of Sicaya in Huancayo province, at a []
Labourer Dies a Day After Fall from Under-Construction House in South Kashmir
SRINAGAR: A labourer who sustained critical injuries after falling from an under-construction house in south Kashmirs Pulwama district on Sunday succumbed to his injuries at a hospital in Srinagar on Monday morning, officials said. The deceased has been identified as Muzaffar Ahmad Shah, son of Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din, a resident of Mitrigam, Pulwama. Officials said Shah []
Baramulla Admin Releases Emergency Contact Directory for Weather-Related Emergencies
SRINAGAR: The District Administration Baramulla has issued a comprehensive Monsoon Emergency Contact Directory to ensure a swift response to emergencies amid the ongoing monsoon season and forecasts of heavy rainfall, floods and landslides. According to the advisory, residents have been urged to keep emergency contact numbers readily available and immediately report any weather-related emergency to []
Inclement weather: SDRF Kashmir issues public advisory, urges residents to stay vigilant
Srinagar, July 20: In view of the forecast of heavy rainfall and the possibility of flash floods, landslides, waterlogging and shooting stones, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Kashmir has issued a detailed public advisory, urging residents to remain alert and follow all safety guidelines. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, SSP SDRF 1st Battalion said that the advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure amid forecasts of intense rainfall across several areas. He urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel and remain vigilant, especially in vulnerable and low-lying areas. He advised people to stay away from rivers, streams, lakes, waterfalls, nallahs and riverbanks, warning that water levels can rise suddenly during heavy rainfall. He also cautioned against sightseeing, photography, fishing or any recreational activity near water bodies. The SSP further advised commuters to avoid travel unless necessary and exercise extreme caution while driving on hill roads and landslide-prone stretches. Residents have also been urged not to cross flooded roads, submerged bridges, culverts or waterlogged areas. Parents have been asked to keep children away from open drains, culverts and water channels, while people have been advised not to walk or park vehicles in dry riverbeds and nallahs as they can suddenly fill with fast-flowing water. Livestock owners were urged to shift animals to safer locations and ensure proper shelter and drinking water. People have also been advised to keep emergency kits ready, charge mobile phones and stay updated through official weather bulletins and government advisories. The SSP said that public cooperation and timely precautions are essential to minimise the impact of weather-related emergencies. Emergency Contact Numbers: SDRF Kashmir EOC: 01942431966; Srinagar: 9103998355; Budgam: 01951295223; Ganderbal: 01942416260; Pulwama: 1933240354; Shopian: 01933293147; Anantnag: 01932227122; Kulgam: 01931295900; Baramulla: 01952234343; Kupwara: 01955253522; Bandipora: 01957225322. PCR Numbers: Srinagar: 01942477567; Budgam: 01952552507; Ganderbal: 01942416478; Pulwama: 01933241280; Shopian: 01933261891; Anantnag: 01932222870; Kulgam: 01931260486; Baramulla: 01952234410; Kupwara: 01955252204; Bandipora: 01957225278. Residents have been advised to immediately dial 112 in case of any emergency and strictly follow instructions issued by the District Administration, SDRF and other disaster management agencies.
US Launches Ninth Straight Night of Strikes on Iran as Regional Conflict Escalates
SRINAGAR: The United States military carried out its ninth consecutive night of airstrikes against Iran, targeting military command centres, air defence systems, coastal surveillance sites, maritime capabilities, missile and drone infrastructure, as Washington intensified operations amid the escalating regional conflict. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the latest operation began at 10 p.m. ET on []
Nukkad Natak performed at Chahari Sharif under IUST's Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan
Awantipora, Jul 17: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), organised a Nukkad Natak (Street Play) at IUST's Constituent College, Alamdar College of Nursing and Medical Technology Charari Sharif, under the national banner of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) to spread critical awareness against drug abuse. The event was organised by the Office of the Dean of Students as part of its Cultural Affairs Committee initiatives in collaboration with the Provost Offices (Boys & Girls Hostels), Proctor Office, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication and Centre for Mental Health and Wellness, The skit performed by IUST students was witnessed by Mtr Zamroda Principal ACNMT, faculty members, officials, students, community members and other staff members of the college. The students were accompanied by Coordinator Cultural Committee and Provost Girls Dr Farhana Allaie, Provost- Boys Dr Zahid Khaki, Senior Proctor Dr Mir Hashim.
DC Ramban monitors situation amid adverse weather advisory
Ramban, Jul 19: Deputy Commissioner Ramban, Mohammad Alyas Khan on Sunday personally monitored the situation across the district following the adverse weather advisory and intermittent rainfall. He inspected National Highway-44 at Nashri landslide site and other vulnerable locations to assess the impact of the inclement weather and review restoration measures undertaken by the concerned departments. Meanwhile, the DC directed all Sub Divisional Magistrates and Tehsildars to remain stationed in their respective jurisdictions, maintain close coordination with line departments, monitor the situation round the clock and ensure a prompt response to any emergency. He instructed field officers to remain in constant touch with the District Administration and immediately report any incident requiring urgent intervention. The Deputy Commissioner directed officers of NHAI, BRO/BECON, the Public Works Department (PWD) and PMGSY to deploy adequate manpower and machinery for immediate restoration of all affected roads and to ensure that road connectivity is restored at the earliest. He stressed that all roads, particularly the National Highway and other major routes, should be kept traffic-worthy to facilitate the safe movement of commuters and emergency services. Reviewing the status of essential services, the DC took stock of water supply, power supply, healthcare facilities, availability of essential commodities and other public utilities. He directed officers concerned to ensure uninterrupted delivery of these services and to remain fully prepared to address any disruptions on priority. The DC said the District Administration has activated all essential services and restoration agencies to deal with any eventuality arising from the prevailing weather conditions. He added that the District Control Room has been activated for round-the-clock monitoring of the situation and to provide timely assistance to the public. The DC also inspected arrangements at Yatri Niwas Chanderkote and other designated locations where Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra pilgrims are staying following the temporary suspension of the Yatra by the authorities. He reviewed the availability of accommodation, food, drinking water, sanitation, medical facilities and other essential amenities, and directed officers concerned to ensure that all necessary arrangements are maintained for the comfort and safety of the pilgrims. Appealing to the general public, the Deputy Commissioner advised people to strictly follow the weather advisory issued by the authorities and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in landslide-prone and vulnerable areas. He urged citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with the Administration and report any emergency or weather-related incident to the District Control Room or the nearest administrative office for immediate assistance. The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner Varunjeet Singh Charak, SSP Ramban Arun Gupta, SSP Traffic NHW Raja Adil Hamid, Project Director NHAI Shubham Yadav and officers of the departments concerned.
SKUAST-K, KVK Gurez organise awareness-cum-training program on Millets under JKST&IC
Bandipora, July 19: The Division of Agricultural Extension & Communication, Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura, SKUAST-Kashmir, in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Gurez, organised an Awareness-cum-Training Programme on Millets under the JKST&IC-funded Project titled Collection, Characterization, nutritional profiling and revival of Millets of North-western Himalayas of Kashmir at KVK Gurez. The programme aimed to enhance farmers' awareness regarding millet cultivation, their nutritional importance, value addition, marketing opportunities, and the development of collective enterprises for improving rural livelihoods. Addressing the participants, Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, Principal Investigator of the JKST&IC Sponsored Project and Head, Division of Agricultural Extension, highlighted the importance of reviving traditional millet cultivation to ensure nutritional security, climate resilience, and sustainable farming systems. He encouraged farmers to adopt millet cultivation and take advantage of the various government schemes and programmes supporting millet production and value chain development. During the technical sessions, Dr. Shijaat Hussain Bhat, Assistant Professor, Division of Agricultural Extension, delivered an informative lecture on the marketing prospects of millets, emphasizing market linkages, branding, and entrepreneurship opportunities for millet growers. Dr. Syed Shafat Kubrevi, Assistant Professor, Division of Agricultural Extension, sensitised the participants about value addition in millets and demonstrated how processing and diversified millet-based products can significantly enhance farmers' income while creating new livelihood opportunities in the region. Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Shah, Assistant Professor, Division of Agricultural Extension, elaborated on the role and benefits of Millet-based Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). He explained how FPOs can strengthen collective marketing, improve access to quality inputs, facilitate value addition, enhance farmers' bargaining power, and enable them to access government support and larger markets. Dr. Jauhar Rafiq Parray, Scientist KVK-Gurez highlighted the significance of Millets in present day agriculture due to their resilience to climate change, low input requirements and high nutritional value. In line with the vision of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie, SKUAST-K continues to intensify its outreach programmes aimed at empowering farming communities through scientific interventions, promotion of climate-resilient crops, nutritional security, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from local farmers, who actively interacted with the resource persons and expressed keen interest in promoting millet cultivation in the Gurez region. The organisers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening farmers' capacities and promoting climate-resilient and nutrition-sensitive agriculture through sustained awareness, training, and extension initiatives.
District Admin Bpora issues public advisory amid heavy rainfall
Bandipora, Jul 19: In view of the prevailing spell of intense rainfall across the district, the District Administration Bandipora has issued a public advisory urging residents to remain vigilant, as heavy rains may trigger cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides, mudslides, shooting stones and other weather-related hazards, posing a threat to life and property. The advisory urges the general public to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in hilly, landslide-prone and low-lying areas. People have also been advised to stay away from riverbanks, streams, nallahs and flood-prone locations to ensure their safety. The District Administration has appealed to citizens to strictly follow advisories and instructions issued by the District Administration and other concerned departments from time to time. Residents have been urged to remain calm, stay alert, cooperate with the authorities and refrain from spreading rumours or unverified information. In case of any emergency, damage or distress situation, the public has been requested to immediately contact the District Control Room at 01957-225322, 7006526985, or 7006328689 for prompt assistance.
Admin urges public to avoid flood-prone areas in Baramulla
Baramulla, Jul 19: In view of the inclement weather forecast issued by the Meteorological Department, Srinagar, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Dr. S.F Hamid has issued a weather advisory urging the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions from July 19 to 23, 2026. The advisory particularly cautions residents of Tangmarg, Gulmarg, Uri, Boniyar, Shirpora Gavgrain, Chandoosa, Dandmoh, Hajibal, Shumluran, Kalantra, Rampur Rajpur, Shutloo, Galibal and Rafiabad, especially those living along the banks of rivers and streams, to stay away from flood-prone areas and avoid crossing flooded roads or water channels, as these may pose serious risks to life. Tourists and travellers intending to visit Tangmarg, Gulmarg, Shirpora Gavgrain, Uri and Boniyar have also been advised to verify road and weather conditions before undertaking their journey and to avoid venturing into vulnerable locations. The District Administration has directed all concerned departments to remain on high alert, keep men and machinery in readiness, and ensure prompt response to any emergency during the advisory period. The public has been advised to strictly follow official advisories and contact the District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC), DC Office Baramulla, or the Police Control Room, Baramulla, in case of any emergency. The administration has appealed to citizens to cooperate with the authorities and exercise utmost caution until weather conditions improve.
Anantnag, Jul 19: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, on Saturday visited Brariangan, Shangus, to review the arrangements for the Murti Pratishthan Diwas of Mata Uma Bhagwati scheduled to be held from 19 to 21, July 2026. During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner inspected the temple premises and conducted a comprehensive review of the arrangements made by various departments for the smooth and successful conduct of the festival. He assessed the preparedness with regard to drinking water supply, electricity, road connectivity, sanitation, healthcare, security, traffic management, and other essential facilities for the convenience of devotees attending the religious event. Interacting with officers of concerned departments, Dr. Bilal directed them to ensure that all arrangements are made in advance and the same be continued till culmination. He emphasized close coordination among the departments and instructed the officers to maintain round-the-clock readiness to ensure uninterrupted services and a safe, clean, and hassle-free experience for devotees. Representatives of the Umanagri Trust Asthapan were also present during the visit and apprised the Deputy Commissioner of the preparations being made for smooth celebrations. The DC assured the Trust of full administrative support for seamless and successful conduct of the event. The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by the SE PWD, Syed Ishfaq Ahmad, SE Jal Shakti, Sareer Ahmad Wani, SE PDD, Mohd Yousuf Mir, Block Medical Officer (BMO), Tehsildar Anantnag, CEO MCA and other concerned officers.
Timely interventions can reduce burden of NCDs: Experts at NIT
Srinagar, July 19: The NIT Srinagar Alumni Association (AANITS), in collaboration with the Office of the Dean Alumni & International Affairs, on Sunday organised a Fitness & Health Awareness Programme at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar to promote healthy lifestyles and spread awareness about lifestyle-related diseases. The programme was organised on the initiative of Additional Secretary, AANITS, Er. Farhan Manzoor Shah witnessed the participation of alumni, students, faculty members, and staff. In his message, Director, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, appreciated AANITS for organising the programme and said the institute is committed to creating an environment where academic excellence goes hand in hand with health, fitness and overall well-being. He said such initiatives help build awareness and inspire students and faculty to embrace healthier lifestyles. Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, said the NIT Srinagar will continue to support programmes that promote preventive healthcare, fitness and community engagement. He noted that awareness and timely lifestyle interventions can significantly reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases among the younger generation. Addressing the gathering, Dean Alumni & International Affairs, Prof. M.A. Shah, said the Institute believes in the holistic development of students and alumni, where physical and mental well-being are as important as academic excellence. He said such awareness programmes create a culture of preventive healthcare and encourage young people to adopt healthy habits early in life. Former Head of the Department of Endocrinology, SKIMS Srinagar, Dr. Shariq Rashid Masoodi, highlighted the growing burden of diabetes and obesity, stressing the importance of regular physical activity, balanced nutrition and timely medical intervention in preventing lifestyle diseases. Head of the Department of Pulmonology, Chest Disease Hospital Srinagar, Dr. Naveed Nazir Shah, spoke about respiratory health and the need for exercise, early diagnosis and healthy habits to reduce the risk of chronic lung diseases. Senior Physiotherapist and Sports Medicine expert, Dr. Mir Ishfaq Hussain, underscored the role of physiotherapy, regular exercise and proper posture in maintaining physical fitness, preventing injuries and improving overall well-being. The experts collectively emphasised that regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, early diagnosis and healthy lifestyle choices remain the strongest pillars for preventing and managing lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, obesity and respiratory ailments.
IMD Issues Heavy Rain Warning For Jammu Region, Flash Flood Risk Likely On July 20
Srinagar:The India Meteorological Departments Srinagar centre issued a weather warning for heavy rain and thunderstorms in multiple districts of Jammu region, with a fresh risk of flash floods and landslides. A official of MeT Sirnagar told that a spell of heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers with thunder and lightning is most likely to []
Spain Beat Argentina to Win FIFA World Cup 2026
SRINAGAR: Spain won the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final, securing their second world title. The match remained goalless after regulation time before Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time to hand Spain the championship. Argentina finished the match with 10 players after []
Ancient Vichar Nag shrine holds sacred place in J&Ks cultural, spiritual heritage: LG Manoj Sinha
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today visited the ancient shrine of Vichar Nag in Srinagar. He paid his obeisance and offered prayers for peace, prosperity and well-being of all. During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor interacted with devotees and also took stock of the renovation works. For millennia, this sacred temple has anchored Indias spiritual, intellectual, and philosophical journey. Its revival serves as a historic bridge, connecting our past, present, and future. It marks the return of a consciousness that, for centuries, nurtured an unbroken tradition of reflection, dialogue, and learning. Restoring Vichar Nag is a vital step toward preserving the rich, diverse cultural heritage of Jammu Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor said. Speaking to media persons, the Lieutenant Governor said: Vichar Nag holds a sacred place in the cultural and spiritual heritage of Jammu Kashmir. The revival of this historic site, once a vibrant hub of knowledge where scholars from across the globe gathered for intellectual discourse, is deeply gratifying. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone associated with this initiative. After a long hiatus, devotees have gathered here today to perform Yajna and Havan. This sacred place associated with great scholars like Abhinavagupta, for more than 2000 years ago, has attracted a vast number of scholars from around the world to deliberate on spirituality to mathematics, he said. I pray that this revival marks the return of that era of fostering a renewed dialogue on knowledge, mathematics, science and modernity, while ushering in peace and prosperity for the region. The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by Rajiv Pandey, DIG CKR; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Dr. GV Sundeep Chakravarthy, SSP Srinagar and senior officials.
Drug free J&K campaign has sent a message that society can overcome biggest challenges: LG Sinha
Srinagar, Jul 19:The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today addressed Interfaith Dialogue for Harmony in Baramulla, organised by the Save Youth Save Future Foundation. He commended the Save Youth Save Future Foundation for their contribution to the drug-free Jammu Kashmir campaign. He said the young volunteers worked selflessly and took on a great responsibility for a better future for UT. Through this campaign we have strengthened trust within our families and institutions, reinforced youth's confidence in their future, and sent a message across the country that when a society rises up on its own, it can overcome biggest challenges, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted that this land of Jammu Kashmir embodies harmony and brotherhood. For generations, people of different faiths received respect and experienced spiritual peace. It is the lasting legacy of the saints, Sufis, and Rishis who spent centuries teaching our people the power of love, compassion, and unity. Lal Deds teachings didnt belong to one religion. Her Vakh spoke directly to the human heart. She never judged people by their faith. Instead, Lal Ded focused on bringing different ways of worship together. Similarly, Sheikh-ul-Alam showed us that true devotion isn't about conflict or division. It is found in compassion and in serving every single human being. The flourishing rishi-sufi tradition in Kashmir does not proclaim the superiority of one faith. Its message is that all religions and beliefs draw their strength from the same existence, and I believe this teaching is our shared heritage. This heritage does not belong only to Hindus, only to Muslims, only to Sikhs, Buddhists, or Christians. It is the legacy of every citizen born on this sacred land, and protecting this heritage is our moral and spiritual duty. We must safeguard this harmony in the same way we protect our families, the Lieutenant Governor said. He also stated that social and religious harmony is the cornerstone on which a strong society, a strong Jammu Kashmir, and a developed India can be built. When the people move in peaceful coexistence then the energy of society becomes the greatest force for development. That is why I strongly believe that harmony is both a moral necessity for the people and the foundation of economic prosperity and it also a guarantee of a brighter future for coming generations. We must strengthen the spirit of equal respect for all religions so that every citizen can progress with equal opportunities. We must reinforce mutual goodwill so that poverty is eliminated from every home. We must unite to promote fraternity so that we can uproot challenges like drug addiction. From the soil of Baramulla today a message should go out that if there is any land in the world that can teach the world that different communities, sects, and faiths can live together in peace, joy, and trust, it is India, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also called upon youth to believe in themselves. Believe in your ability. Believe that you can build a future far brighter than the past you inherited. For a long time, this land suffered from the scourge of drugs and terrorism, and that impacted the consciousness, dreams, and futures of the youth. Today I say with full conviction that that era has now ended. Now the youth of Jammu Kashmir have taken the reins of their future into their own hands, and this Union Territory is moving toward a new era of education, entrepreneurship, innovation, spiritual awareness, and national unity. Let us together build a Jammu Kashmir that is stronger, more prosperous, peaceful, and progressive, the Lieutenant Governor said. During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor also met various public delegations. He assured appropriate action on the issues projected by them. Major General Manoj Joshi, GoC, Dagger Division; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture Department; Dr. Vinod Kumar, DIG North Kashmir Range; Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla; Gurinderpal Singh, SSP Baramulla; Wajahat Farooq Bhat, Chairman, Save Youth Save Future Foundation; members of the Foundation; senior officials, civil society members, prominent citizens, people from different walks of life and youth in large number were present.
US launches more airstrikes against Iran after announcing another death of service member
DUBAI: The United States began a new round of airstrikes early Monday targeting Iran after announcing the death of another American service member, and Iran fired missiles toward Jordan that risked widening the conflict into neighboring Israel. Step by step, the US and Iran have inched closer to all-out war as last months interim deal []
Spain wins the World Cup by beating Argentina 1-0 on Ferran Torres goal in extra time
EAST RUTHERFORD: Spain substitute Ferran Torres scored in the 106th minute to give his team a 1-0 win over defending champion Argentina in the World Cup final on Sunday. Spain was absolutely dominant in terms of possession and shot attempts. Lionel Messi and Argentina found a way to hang on and force extra time []
First-of-its-kind Kashmir Theatre Conference from Aug 1-3 in Sgr
Srinagar, Jul 19: A first-of-its-kind Kashmir Theatre Conference will be held at Tagore Hall in Srinagar from August 1 to 3,2026, bringingtogether renowned theatre practitioners, scholars, artists and enthusiasts from across the country to deliberate on the past, present and future of theatre in Jammu and Kashmir. The three-day conference is being organised by the non-governmental organisation ACT: For a Better Tomorrow with support from the Sangeet Natak Akademi and the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL). Speaking to Rising Kashmir, ACT Chairman Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan said the conference would be the first event of its scale dedicated exclusively to theatre in Kashmir. This conference is unique in many ways. It will provide a platform for young minds to learn, perform and celebrate the art of theatre while also facilitating meaningful dialogue among theatre practitioners, scholars and enthusiasts, he said. Khan said the conference will feature panel discussions, debates and lectures tracing the evolution of Kashmiri theatre from 1947 to the present, examining its artistic journey, achievements and contemporary challenges. The conference will bring together theatre practitioners, lovers and scholars from Kashmir and other parts of the country who have contributed significantly to the growth of theatre. Together, they will deliberate on ways to strengthen the theatre movement in Kashmir, improve the quality of productions and encourage greater youth participation so that the legacy of theatre continues, he said. Among the prominent speakers to address the conference are M K Raina, Ayash Arif, Mohammad Amin Bhat, K K Raina, Nisar Naseem, Ravi Khemu, Bashir Bhawani, Kamal Razdan and Muzamil Bhawani, besides several other noted theatre personalities. Participants and guests are expected to travel from Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Chandigarh and Aligarh, making the conference a national gathering of theatre professionals. The organisers have invited schools, colleges, universities, theatre groups and aspiring young artists from across Kashmir to participate in the event. Educational institutions and theatre groups with stage productions will also be given an opportunity to perform during the conference. The organisers further said they are exploring the possibility of inviting prominent Bollywood actors from Mumbaihavingcontributed to Kashmir theatre, subject to government support.
Historic Vichernag Temple restored after 37 years
Srinagar, July 19: After remaining neglected for nearly four decades, the historic Vichernag Temple in Srinagar has been restored and reopened, rekindling hope among devotees and residents who see the revival as a significant milestone in preserving Kashmir's rich spiritual and cultural heritage. The renovation of the centuries-old shrine, completed after 37 years, has been widely welcomed by residents and members of the Kashmiri Panditcommunity, many of whomdescribed the restoration as an emotional moment that reconnects people with an important chapter of Kashmir's civilisational history. Nestled amid the old quarters of Srinagar, the temple had gradually fallen into disrepair following years of neglect. Weathering, damaged structures and lack of maintenance had reduced one of the Valley's historic places of worship to a shadow of its former self. The restoration has now breathed new life into the shrine. The temple complex has undergone structural repairs, beautification and conservation while retaining its traditional architectural character, allowing devotees once again to offer prayers in a dignified and serene atmosphere. Members of the Kashmiri Pandit community said the reopening was not merely about restoring a place of worship but about reviving a shared cultural legacy that belongs to all Kashmiris. This temple carries the memories of generations. Seeing it restored after 37 years is deeply emotional for those who have remained connected to their roots despite displacement, said a devotee who visited the shrine. Local Muslim residents also welcomed the restoration, saying Kashmir's composite culture has always thrived on respect for each other's religious and historical sites. We have grown up seeing these shrines as part of Kashmir's identity. Preserving them strengthens our shared heritage and sends a positive message of harmony, a resident said. Several devotees expressed gratitude to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for facilitating the restoration work and giving priority to the conservation of religious and heritage sites across Jammu and Kashmir. They said the restoration reflects the administration's commitment to safeguarding the Valley's multicultural legacy and reviving historically significant places that had remained neglected for decades. The reopening of the temple is expected to encourage greater footfall by devotees and heritage enthusiasts while also contributing to cultural tourism in the Valley. Heritage experts believe the revival of ancient temples, shrines and other historical monuments plays an important role in preserving Kashmir's unique civilisational identity, which has evolved over centuries through diverse religious and cultural traditions. For many, the reopening of Vichernag Temple is more than the restoration of a structureit is the revival of memories, faith and a shared heritage that continues to define the soul of Kashmir.
Interfaith Dialogue for Harmony : Rishi-Sufi tradition legacy of every J&K citizen: LG
Srinagar, Jul 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said Jammu and Kashmir embodies harmony and brotherhood. For generations, people of different faiths received respect and experienced spiritual peace. It is the lasting legacy of the saints, Sufis, and Rishis who spent centuries teaching our people the power of love, compassion, and unity, the LG said, addressing the Interfaith Dialogue for Harmony in Baramulla, organised by the Save Youth Save Future Foundation. He commended the foundation for its contribution to the drug-free Jammu Kashmir campaign and stating that through this campaign, trust within families and institutions has been strengthened, youth confidence in their future has been reinforced, and a message has been sent across the country that when a society rises up on its own, it can overcome the biggest challenges. I commend the young volunteers who worked selflessly and took on a great responsibility for a better future for the UT. Through this campaign we have strengthened trust within our families and institutions, reinforced youth's confidence in their future, and sent a message across the country that when a society rises up on its own, it can overcome biggest challenges, the Lieutenant Governor said. In his address, the LG said, Lal Ded's teachings didn't belong to one religion. Her Vakh spoke directly to the human heart. She never judged people by their faith. Instead, Lal Ded focused on bringing different ways of worship together. Similarly, Sheikh-ul-Alam showed us that true devotion isn't about conflict or division. It is found in compassion and in serving every single human being. He added that the flourishing rishi-sufi tradition in Kashmir does not proclaim the superiority of one faith, and its message is that all religions and beliefs draw their strength from the same existence. This heritage does not belong only to Hindus, only to Muslims, only to Sikhs, Buddhists, or Christians. It is the legacy of every citizen born on this sacred land, and protecting this heritage is our moral and spiritual duty, he said. The Lieutenant Governor said that social and religious harmony is the cornerstone on which a strong society, a strong Jammu Kashmir, and a developed India can be built. When the people move in peaceful coexistence then the energy of society becomes the greatest force for development. That is why I strongly believe that harmony is both a moral necessity for the people and the foundation of economic prosperity and it is also a guarantee of a brighter future for coming generations, he said. Sinha called upon youth to believe in themselves and their ability to build a future far brighter than the past they inherited. For a long time, this land suffered from the scourge of drugs and terrorism, and that impacted the consciousness, dreams, and futures of the youth. Today I say with full conviction that that era has now ended. Now the youth of Jammu Kashmir have taken the reins of their future into their own hands, and this Union Territory is moving toward a new era of education, entrepreneurship, innovation, spiritual awareness, and national unity, he said. During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor also met various public delegations and assured appropriate action on issues projected by them. The event was attended by Major General Manoj Joshi, GOC Dagger Division; Principal Secretary Culture Brij Mohan Sharma; DIG North Kashmir Range Dr Vinod Kumar; Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid; SSP Baramulla Gurinderpal Singh; Save Youth Save Future Foundation Chairman Wajahat Farooq Bhat; members of the Foundation; senior officials; civil society members; prominent citizens; and a large number of youth.
12 dead, several missing as flash floods, landslides wreak havoc in Poonch-Rajouri belt
8 members of one family buried in Surankote landslide; rescue ops underway CM Abdullah cancels Delhi protest, chairs high-level meet Weather advisory warns of rain till July 23 Jammu: At least 12 people were killed and several others missing as torrential rains unleashed landslides and flash floods across the twin border districts of Poonch and []
LG Sinha reviews rescue & relief operations
Directs DCs, officials to provide immediate aid Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has reviewed the Rescue and Relief Operations in Rajouri and Poonch following the incessant rain and flash floods. The Lieutenant Governor, who is closely monitoring the situation, has directed the Deputy Commissioners and senior officials to provide immediate aid to all affected families []
India stands as symbol where all religions flourished: Sinha
Srinagar, Jul 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday attended the Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan in Baramulla, describing it as a spiritual rebirth for the region that sends a powerful message of harmony and national unity from Baramulla across Jammu and Kashmir and the entire country. Speaking on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said in the Sanatan tradition, a yajna represents selfless sacrifice and shared responsibility aimed at fostering global peace. For many centuries, Baramulla remained a gateway of culture, a confluence of ideas, and a great centre of spiritual knowledge. Through today's Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan, we are revivingour glorious heritage of Baramulla.On this land, where all faiths are respected, the Mahayajna is breathing new life into our spiritual legacy, which has given Jammu Kashmir a distinctive and unique identity in the world, he said. Sinha recalled that our ancestors, sages, and seers prayed LokaSamastaSukhino Bhavantumay all beings everywhere be happy and healthy. The view of our sages was always inclusive and compassionate, and today, as the world struggles with divisions and conflict, the prayers rising from this sacred land of Baramulla and the verses of the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita offer humanity a powerful message of peace, goodwill, and coexistence, he said. The LG added, Our great tradition teaches us to see God in every person andthatthe spirit of our spiritual tradition removes distinctions of language, region, caste, and custom. He said India stands as a symbol where all religions have flourished, and this Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan is a living expression of that national unity. In therapidly changing world, we must strengthen the tradition of brotherhood and cultivate virtues such as patience, compassion, sensitivity, and selfless love in the younger generation. The Lieutenant Governor said conserving nature should be our spiritual duty. Thousands of years ago, our ancestors and sages taught us to revere nature. We called rivers our mothers, regarded trees as life-givers, and the Earth is worshipped as a mother-goddess in the Sanatan tradition. When we leave this earth, we should pass it on in a better condition for future generations, he said. He urged youth to lead the world with innovation and compassion, showing that modernity and spirituality can go hand in hand. The event was attended by Padma Shri Brij Lal Bhat, Principal Secretary, Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma, DIG North Kashmir Range, Dr Vinod Kumar, Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, Syed Fakhrudin Hamid, SSP Baramulla, Gurinderpal Singh, Maharishi Kashyap Colony President Shivanand Rohit Raina, senior officials, civil society members, religious leaders, prominent citizens, and a large number of people.
130 flood-hit residents shifted to relief centre in Rajouri
Rajouri/Jammu: At least 130 people were evacuated to a relief centre established by the district administration at the Government Higher Secondary School in the flood-hit town of Rajouri in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, officials said. Flash floods triggered by incessant overnight rainfall have left a large number of families homeless after floodwaters swept away []
NC to hold statehood protest today despite uncertainty over venue, CMs presence
New Delhi: The National Conference is set to proceed with its planned protest in the national capital on Monday to demand the restoration of statehood, despite uncertainty over the venue and the absence of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is back in Jammu to oversee an unfolding flood crisis. The protest was []
Mulaqat : J&Ks coexistence heritage can be model for world: LG
Baramulla, Jul 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said Jammu and Kashmir possesses a unique heritage of coexistence and communal harmony that can serve as a model for the world.He called upon citizens to safeguard this legacy while joining hands to eradicate the growing menace of drug addiction. Addressing a programme titled Mulaqat in Baramulla, Sinha said the people of the Union Territory must demonstrate unity through action rather than rhetoric and build a society based on shared heritage, shared culture and equal opportunities for all citizens, irrespective of religion, caste or community. If there is a place in the world that can teach the world that different communities, sects and religions can live together in peace, happiness and faith, that land belongs to Jammu and Kashmir, and that land belongs to India, he said. The LG said social and religious values form the foundation of a strong society and a developed India, adding that self-determination among the people is essential for economic progress, social development and securing the future of coming generations. He stressed the need to strengthen inter-faith harmony and mutual cooperation so that poverty could be removed from every household and social cohesion strengthened across the Union Territory. If we want to encourage brotherhood, then we have to overcome the dreadful challenge of addiction, Sinha said, adding that the message should reach every corner of Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing the youth, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to believe in their abilities and shape a future better than the one inherited from the past. For a very long time, this land has seen terrorism, war and addiction. Many have lost their loved ones, and the dreams and future of young people were deeply affected. Today I want to say with confidence that that cycle is now over, he said. Sinha described the emerging transformation in Jammu and Kashmir as a movement towards a new era of unity, entrepreneurship, innovation, spiritual awareness and national unity. He praised the volunteers of the Save Youth Save Future Foundationand said they have shown that meaningful change is possible when young people take responsibility for their own future. The Lieutenant Governor recalled an incident from a visit to Uri during a period of crisis, saying that the Gurudwara Baramulla had offered accommodation and food arrangements to affected people. I believe this is our heritage. We have to carry this heritage forward, he said. LG Sinha concluded his address with a poetic appeal for harmony and said society today needed a great deal of love and urged people to reject hatred and work collectively for a prosperous, peaceful and progressive Jammu and Kashmir.
J&K embodies harmony, brotherhood: LG at Interfaith Dialogue
Youth have taken reins of future; era of drugs over Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday addressed Interfaith Dialogue for Harmony in Baramulla, organised by the Save Youth Save Future Foundation. He commended the Save Youth Save Future Foundation for their contribution to the drug-free Jammu Kashmir campaign. He said the young volunteers worked []
Restoring Vichar Nag shrine vital step to preserve J&Ks cultural heritage: LG
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday visited the ancient shrine of Vichar Nag in Srinagar. He paid his obeisance and offered prayers for peace, prosperity and well-being of all. During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor interacted with devotees and also took stock of the renovation works. For millennia, this sacred temple has anchored Indias []
Monsoon Session : 58 leaders from 40 parties attend all-party meet
New Delhi, Jul 19: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday chaired a meeting of the government with leaders of political parties at the Parliament House Complex here to discuss issues relating to the ensuing Monsoon Session of Parliament, 2026. The meeting was attended by 58 leaders from 40 political parties. The meeting was called by Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, and was attended by Union Health Minister and Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha Jagat Prakash Nadda, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Law & Justice and Minister of State of Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal, and Minister of State of Parliamentary Affairs and Information and Broadcasting Dr L. Murugan. At the outset, Rajnath Singh made introductory remarks and welcomed all the leaders. Rijiju informed the leaders that the Monsoon Session, 2026, will commence on Monday, July 20, 2026, and subject to exigencies of Government Business, the session may conclude on Thursday, August 13, 2026, providing a total of 19 sittings spread over a period of 25 days. Rijiju further said that Legislative Business for the ensuing Monsoon Session has already been published in Bulletin Part-II by both the Secretariats of Parliament on July 16, 2026. The minister requested all the leaders for their cooperation for the smooth functioning of Parliament and stated that the Government is ready to discuss any other important issues on the floors of the Houses as permitted under the Rules of Procedure. Leaders of different political parties expressed their views on various issues likely to be raised by them during the forthcoming Monsoon Session and assured the Government of their cooperation. The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs took note of all issues raised by the leaders and thanked them for attending the meeting, expressing their views, and for their active and effective participation. Rajnath Singh thanked all the leaders for their attendance and contributions.
Protecting lives top priority: CM Omar
Jammu, Jul 19: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariathereto review the situation arising from incessant rainfall leading to flash floods in Poonch and Rajouri. He assessed thepreparedness of the administrationto deal with any weather-related eventuality across Jammu & Kashmir. The meeting comprehensively reviewed the prevailing weather situation, the impact of heavy rainfall, flash floods and landslides reported from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir, and the measures being undertaken by various departments to ensure public safety, restore essential services and provide timely relief to affected families. At the outset, the Chief Minister expressed deep condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in flash fllods and conveyed his sympathies to all those affected by the ongoing inclement weather. He said the Government stands firmly with every affected family and remains committed to providing all possible assistance for relief, rehabilitation and restoration. Emphasising that protecting human lives remains the Governments foremost priority, the Chief Minister directed the administration to remain on highest alert andensureswift and effective response to every emergency. He instructed all Deputy Commissioners and field agencies to closely monitor vulnerable areas, particularly those prone to landslides, flash floods and inundation, while ensuring that rescue teams, machinery and essential services remain fully prepared to respond at short notice. The Chief Minister was informed that rescue teams have already been kept on alert in rain-affected areas to respond to any eventuality. He stressed that every possible effort should be made to trace and retrieve missing persons so that affected families receive timely support and they are able to reconcile with the reality of unfortunate death of their loved ones. Reviewing the availability of essential commodities across J&K, the Chief Minister directed the concerned departments to ensure uninterrupted supplies of food grains, medicines, drinking water and other essential items in every district. He also called for the expeditious restoration of roads, power supply, drinking water schemes and communication links wherever these have been disrupted due to heavy rains. The Chief Minister was also informed that sufficient funds have been kept available to meet relief and rehabilitation requirements wherever necessary. He directed that there should be no delay in extending financial assistance and relief to affected families. The meeting was informed that adequate stocks of medicines are available across J&K while surveillance has been intensified to prevent any outbreak of water-borne or communicable diseases in the aftermath of heavy rains. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo emphasized the need for immediate rescue & relief measures, effective coordination between departments & agencies and furnishing of updated damage reports. He directed Divisional Commissioners to coordinate with Telecom companies for restoration of telecom services in the affected areas immediately. Underscoring the importance of seamless coordination, the Chief Minister said that effective inter-departmental coordination is critical during such situations. He directed all departments, district administrations and field agencies to work in close coordination with one another and maintain constant liaison with the Army, Border Roads Organisation (BRO), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and other agencies engaged in rescue and restoration efforts. Coordination cannot be emphasised enough, the Chief Minister said, directing all districts to keep their control rooms functional round the clock, maintain constant vigilance and ensure prompt dissemination of information to facilitate timely decision-making and response. Reviewing the status of connectivity, the Chief Minister was informed that all major roads remain open, while clearance operations are underway to remove landslides and debris from affected road stretches. He directed the concerned agencies to expedite restoration works, with particular emphasis on restoring electricity supply in Poonch district at the earliest. To strengthen monitoring during the ongoing weather situation, the Chief Minister directed that, beginning today and till July 24, every district shall submit situation reports every six hours to the respective Divisional Commissioners, who will consolidate and forward the reports to Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRRR). The department will compile the reports and circulate them to the offices of the Lieutenant Governor, the Chief Minister, the Chief Secretary and the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. He expressed hope that the reporting mechanism could be discontinued after July 24 if weather conditions improve. Regarding educational institutions, the Chief Minister noted that schools have already been closed till July 22. He directed the School Education Department to review the prevailing weather situation on July 22 and take an appropriate decision regarding opening of schools in both the Summer and Winter Zones, The Chief Minister also announced that, subject to the prevailing situation, Ministers will begin field visits from tomorrow to personally assess the ground situation, monitor relief operations and ensure that all necessary assistance reaches affected people without delay. During the meeting, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, briefed the Chief Minister on the damage caused by heavy rains in Rajouri and deaths in Poonch districts and outlined the ongoing rescue, relief and rehabilitation measures being undertaken by the administration. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, apprised the meeting about the prevailing monsoon situation in the Kashmir Division, preparedness for weather-related emergencies, arrangements for the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 and other precautionary measures being taken to tackle any emerging situation. Deputy Commissioners of Poonch, Rajouri and Kishtwar also briefed the Chief Minister on the damage reported in their respective districts and the actions initiated by the district administrations to address the situation. Commissioners of the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) and Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) informed the meeting that men, machinery and emergency response equipment have been kept on standby to deal with any exigency arising from the ongoing spell of inclement weather. The meeting was attended online from the Resident Commissioners Office, New Delhi, by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana and Satish Kumar Sharma, besides Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani. The meeting was also attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Financial Commissioners, Administrative Secretaries of key departments, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM, ADGP Civil Defence & SDRF, Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir, Inspector General of Police (Traffic), Deputy Commissioners, Chief Engineers of Irrigation and Flood Control, senior officials of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), JKPCC, JAKEDA, NBCC, telecom service providers including Jio and Airtel who attended the meeting online along with senior officers from all concerned departments and agencies. The Chief Minister reiterated that the Government is closely monitoring the evolving situation and will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard lives, minimise damage and ensure timely relief and rehabilitation for all those affected by flash floods and the ongoing spell of adverse weather across J&K.
LG directs immediate aid to affected families
Srinagar, Jul 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday reviewed the rescue and relief operations in Rajouri and Poonch following incessant rain and flash floods. He directed Deputy Commissioners and senior officials to provide immediate aid to all affected families and ensure that emergency teams remain fully prepared for any situation. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said: I spoke to the senior officials and reviewed the situation in Rajouri and Poonch affected by incessant rain and flash floods. In Rajouri, rescue teams from the civil administration, police, army, SDRF, and local volunteers are actively working on the ground. Affected families have already been moved to safety. All departments are on high alert, and they are prioritizing immediate relief and repair work. I urge residents to stay calm and follow official updates. I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives in Rajouri and Poonch's Haveli and Surankote areas. My heart goes out to the grieving families. The heavy rains have also damaged several homes across Rajouri and Poonch. I have directed officials to provide immediate aid to all affected families in both districts andensuredthat emergency teams remain fully prepared for any situation, the Lieutenant Governor added. The Lieutenant Governor is closely monitoring the situation and has urged residents to stay calm and follow official updates.
Monsoon Mayhem : 12 dead, 8 from one family, as cloudbursts, flash floods devastate Rajouri, Poonch
Srinagar, Jul 19: At least 12 people, including eight from a single family, lost their lives while several others were reported missing after cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides triggered by incessant overnight rain wreaked havoc across the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch on Sunday, leaving behind a trail of devastation. The torrential downpour, fuelled by an active monsoon system interacting with a western disturbance, caused rivers, streams, and seasonal nallahs to swell dangerously, inundating villages, washing away houses, vehicles, and livestock, besides snapping road connectivity in several areas. The worst-hit pockets witnessed widespread destruction as floodwaters entered residential areas while landslides buried roads and damaged public infrastructure. Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Poonch Dr Parvez Ahmad told Rising Kashmir that 11 people have so far died in the district due to flash floods and landslides. The toll could increase. Among the dead are eight members of a single family from Murah in Surankote, whose house collapsed; three bodies have been recovered, while five are still missing. In Sangla area of Surankote, four members of a family died, with two bodies recovered and two still missing. A minor girl drowned after being swept away in a stream in the Marhote area, while the body of an unidentified woman was recovered from a stream near Dhundak bridge. Sub District Magistrate (SDM) Surankote Farooq Khan confirmed that the figure of dead could rise as rescue operations continue. Rescue teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Army, police, Civil Defence, Fire and Emergency Services, and district administration workedroundthe clock to evacuate stranded residents, retrieve bodies, and restore connectivity. The worst devastation was reported from several villages in Poonch,whileadjoining Rajouri district also suffered extensive damage. The disaster prompted Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to convene an emergency review meeting with senior civil and police officers, directing speedy rescue, relief, and rehabilitation of affected families. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was in New Delhi for the National Conference's statehood programme, cut short his visit and returned to Jammu and Kashmir to personally monitor the situation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister and assured all possible assistance from the Centre. The extreme weather forced authorities to temporarily suspend both the Amarnath Yatra and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra as a precautionary measure due to heavy rainfall and the heightened risk of flash floods and landslides along the pilgrimage routes. Power supply, drinking water schemes, and road connectivity suffered extensive damage. Floodwaters washed away stretches of roads and bridges, while landslides blocked highways and interior roads, delaying rescue teams from reaching remote villages. The tragedy comes a day after the Meteorological Department issued a detailed weather advisory warning of an extended wet spell from July 19 to July 23, forecasting moderate to heavy rainfall with the possibility of flash floods, cloudbursts, landslides, and mudslides, particularly in vulnerable districts of the Jammu region. Officials advised people living near rivers, streams, and hilly slopes to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel as intermittent heavy rainfall is expected to continue.
When the Clouds Burst, Systems Must Not Fail
The latest spell of cloudbursts and flashfloods across Jammu and Kashmir has once again exposed how fragile our disaster management architecture remains, despite years of warnings and repeated tragedies. Each deluge brings the same images: homes inundated, roads washed away, frightened families waiting for rescue and the same ritual of condolence messages, aerial reviews, and assurances of all possible help. What remains missing is a coherent, efficient, and genuinely timebound disaster management system that saves lives before they become statistics. J&Ks geography and climate make it inherently vulnerable. Steep slopes, encroachments along riverbanks, haphazard construction on floodplains, and a changing climate that is intensifying extreme weather events have together turned cloudbursts and flashfloods into an almost annual nightmare. Yet institutional memory is astonishingly short. Lessons from 2014 and subsequent events have not been translated into robust protocols on the ground. Too often, coordination between civil administration, police, disaster response forces, and local bodies begins only after the skies open, not before. Efficient disaster management must start long before any alert is sounded. This means updated vulnerability mapping of floodprone areas, strict enforcement against illegal constructions near waterways, and preparing detailed evacuation and shelter plans for every district. It also demands investment in early warning systems that actually reach people in time; through sirens, SMS alerts, local radio, mosque loudspeakers, and local volunteers, rather than remaining confined to official files and social media posts. Equally critical is building local resilience. Panchayats, municipal bodies, and mohalla committees should be trained in basic searchandrescue, first aid, and crowd management. Schools and colleges must regularly conduct mock drills so that children and youth know how to respond in those crucial first minutes. Stocking emergency supplies, portable water purification units, and backup power at designated shelters cannot be treated as a postdisaster formality. Accountability, too, has to move beyond inquiries announced in the heat of the moment and forgotten soon after. Every major weather alert must trigger a verifiable checklist: which embankments were inspected, which vulnerable households were informed, which routes were kept clear for ambulances and rescue teams. Officials who repeatedly fail to act on warnings should face consequences, not simply transfers. Jammu and Kashmir cannot control when the clouds will burst, but it can decide how prepared it will be when they do. Preventable loss of life to floods and landslides is an unforgivable failure. The time for ceremonial reviews is over. What this fragile landscape needs is a culture of preparedness, powered by science, public participation, and unwavering political will.
PoonchRajouri ravaged by flash floods and landslides
The dead of Poonch and Rajouri did not die in a freak act of nature. They died in homes built in vulnerable belts, under a governance regime that has long treated disaster management as a ritual, not a responsibility. Eleven lives have already been lost, several more are missing, and an entire border belt is staring at ruin, yet the script is grimly familiar. In Surankotes Lower Murrah, a single landslide buried eight members of a family. In Sangla, a house was simply erased by raging waters, taking with it four members of another household. A young mother in Noonabandi, a youth in Sanglani-Surankote, a minor girl in Marhote, unidentified bodies dragged out of swollen streams, these are not abstract statistics. They are names, faces, stories, wiped out in minutes because we have learned nothing from the calamities of the past decade. The administration has responded with its usual vocabulary: multi-agency rescue operation, review meeting, directions for immediate relief. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has reviewed the situation and ordered assistance. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has cut short his political programme in Delhi, promising to personally monitor the ground situation. MLAs are rushing back from protests to constituencies lashed by rain. All of this may be necessary, but none of it is sufficient. For years, experts and the local population alike have warned of unregulated construction, encroachment on floodplains, and the criminal neglect of drainage and slope stabilisation in the Pir Panjal belt. The present devastation, houses collapsing in Haveli, vehicles swept away, and low-lying areas of Rajouri town inundated, is not just the result of torrential rain but of deliberate policy failure. When rivers are narrowed by unchecked construction, when catchments are stripped of forests, when early warning and evacuation systems remain weak, heavy rain becomes a death sentence for the poorest. The weather advisory had already warned of moderate to heavy rainfall till July 23. Yet, as the skies opened over Rajouri and Poonch, how prepared were we really? Were vulnerable villages mapped and alerted? Were safe shelters identified and stocked? Were bridges, culverts and embankments inspected and reinforced ahead of the monsoon? Or did we once again wait for tragedy to strike before rushing in cameras, convoys and compensation forms? Political parties will now compete in outrage and sympathy. Protests for statehood will resume in Delhi; statements will be made in Srinagar and Jammu; promises of rehabilitation packages will be rolled out. But the people of Poonch and Rajouri need more than rhetoric. They need time-bound accountability: an independent audit of why specific houses collapsed, why specific stretches flooded, who allowed construction in known danger zones, and why disaster preparedness plans remained on paper. This tragedy must be a turning point. The government must immediately relocate families from the most vulnerable belts, enforce a moratorium on construction in floodplains and landslide-prone slopes, and invest in scientific, community-centred disaster management. Anything less will mean that when the next cloudburst strikes, and it will, we will be writing not a rare editorial of outrage, but yet another obituary for a state that refuses to learn.
Telemedicine and Digital Access to Veterinary Care
Not every animal can be easily brought to a clinic. Some are too nervous, others too large, and still others too weak to stand. For their owners particularly those in rural areas with limited access to veterinary services telemedicine offers a practical and increasingly indispensable solution. Picture a farmer in a remote village: he picks up his phone, opens an app, and within minutes is in a live video consultation with a licensed veterinarian who observes his animal's behaviour, asks the right clinical questions, and advises him clearly on whether the situation can be monitored at home or demands immediate intervention. This is veterinary telemedicine and it is transforming the way animal owners across the world access care. Veterinary telemedicine delivers animal healthcare through digital technologies: video consultations, messaging, remote monitoring, and electronic record-sharing. Owners can show footage of their animal walking, describe changes in appetite and behaviour, and discuss medication adjustments all without the stress of a clinical visit that may itself compromise an already fragile patient. The global veterinary telemedicine market was valued at approximately USD 282 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 882 million in 2026, with forecasts pointing to USD 3.3 billion by 2034. This is not speculative expansion; it is a market responding to a genuine and growing unmet need. That need has multiple drivers. Pet and livestock ownership has surged worldwide, and animals are increasingly regarded as members of the family whose health deserves the same attentiveness as any other household member. Simultaneously, the veterinary profession faces a serious and worsening workforce shortage. In rural India, for instance, the veterinarian to livestock ratio stands at an alarming one veterinarian for every 5,000 animals far below the internationally recommended standard of one for every 500. A study cited by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has projected that 75 million pets in the United States could be without adequate veterinary care by 2030; India's challenge, given its vast livestock population and widely dispersed rural communities, is even more formidable. Telemedicine is among the most immediate and scalable tools available to bridge that gap. For many animal owners, the term elemedicine still conjures the image of a simple video call. The reality is considerably more sophisticated and more useful. Modern veterinary telemedicine platforms offer a comprehensive range of services: live video and messaging consultations, electronic prescription management for appropriate conditions, digital sharing of photographs, videos, and diagnostic images, integrated medical record access, appointment scheduling, and in some cases direct real-time connection between a general practitioner and a board-certified specialist. Surveys indicate that 85% of pet owners find the prospect of consulting their veterinarian via telehealth appealing a figure that reflects how naturally this transition resonates with the animal-owning public. Yet the true power of telemedicine lies not in convenience alone, but in its capacity to reach those who have historically been underserved. Veterinary care has long been distributed unevenly, with specialist services concentrated in urban centres while rural communities remain poorly served. A farmer dealing with a lame cow in a remote district, or a family caring for a chronically ill pet far from the nearest clinic, previously faced a stark choice: undertake a long and costly journey, or simply go without specialist input. Telemedicine changes that equation meaningfully. It allows one veterinarian's expertise to reach more animals, more families, and more communities than a clinic alone ever could not by replacing dedicated veterinary professionals, but by multiplying the reach of the commitment they already bring to their work. It is important, however, to be clear about what telemedicine is and what it is not. Telemedicine is a complementary tool within veterinary practice, not a substitute for hands-on clinical care. A valid Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) must be established before a veterinarian can legally diagnose or treat an animal through a remote platform, and all associated regulatory requirements including informed consent must be scrupulously observed. The responsible use of telemedicine means knowing precisely when it is appropriate, and when the animal must be seen in person. Used wisely, within its proper legal and clinical framework, veterinary telemedicine does not diminish the standard of animal healthcare. It extends it further, faster, and to those who need it most. (The Author is a Veterinarian and an Independent Researcher. Email: dr.akhterrasool@rediffmail.com)
Children's Screen Use and Why Balance Matters
CONNECTED CHILDHOOD Digital technology is now a part of everyday life in Kashmir. Children and teenagers use phones, tablets and computers to study, learn new skills, access information, communicate with family and friends, and use a wide range of digital resources. It has become an important part of homes, schools and everyday life across the Valley, and children are growing up in a world where digital devices are a normal part of daily life. Screens help children study, learn new skills, stay connected with family and friends, and find information quickly. They also allow students across Kashmir to attend online classes, prepare for examinations and explore educational resources from almost anywhere. However, they have also raised an important question for parents, teachers and health experts: Are children spending too much time on screens? Science suggests that the answer is not as simple as yes or no. Children today spend more time on digital devices than any previous generation. According to Common Sense Media, screen use rises steadily with age and increased sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic as education and daily life moved online. But experts say the number of hours alone does not tell the whole story. What children watch, why they use screens and what screen time replaces are equally important. Leading international organizations now emphasize not only how long children use screens but also how they use them. The World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) all stress the importance of healthy routines, balanced technology use and positive online experiences. The World Health Organization advises avoiding sedentary screen time for children younger than two years and limiting screen time for leisure to no more than one hour a day for children aged two to four. Scientists also say the early years are especially important because most brain development happens before the age of five. During this period, children learn best through conversation, play, reading and time with parents and caregivers. A major review published in the journal Children examined findings from 43 studies involving children and adolescents. It found that excessive screen time for leisure was linked with poor sleep, obesity, anxiety, depression, unhealthy eating habits, eye strain, lower physical activity, attention difficulties and lower academic performance. Importantly, the researchers stressed that more high-quality research is needed to better understand direct cause and effect. The research comes from some of the world's leading universities and research centres. The 2025 meta-analysis published in Psychological Bulletin involved researchers from institutions including the University of Queensland, Australian Catholic University, the University of Helsinki, the University of Otago and La Trobe University. Their findings suggest that the relationship between screen use and children's wellbeing is complex rather than one-dimensional, with family life, sleep, physical activity and emotional health all playing important roles. Other leading institutions have reached similar conclusions. Researchers at Stanford University, the University of Oxford, Bath Spa University and the American Psychological Association say the quality of screen use, family support and healthy routines often matter more than simply counting hours. They also note that many studies rely on self-reported screen time, making it difficult to establish direct cause and effect. Technology has opened new opportunities for students across the Valley. Children can attend online classes, prepare for examinations, access digital libraries and explore educational resources. Smartphones have become important tools for learning and communication. However, parents and teachers across Kashmir often notice changes in children's daily routines. Some children spend less time playing outdoors. Some remain awake late using digital devices, making it more difficult to wake up on time, stay active and concentrate during school hours. These concerns deserve attention, but they should be addressed with balance rather than fear. Experts now encourage families to ask simple questions. Is screen time replacing sleep? Is it reducing physical activity? Is it affecting studies or family time? Does it leave children feeling stressed or unhappy? Or is it helping them learn, create and communicate? The quality of screen time often matters more than the number of hours. Watching an educational programme with parents, attending an online class or learning a new skill are meaningful uses of technology. This is very different from spending long hours scrolling without a clear purpose. Parents can also help children build healthy habits. Family meals can be a time for conversation instead of phones. Bedrooms should remain free from screens at night, while reading, storytelling and outdoor play should remain part of childhood. Children also need to learn how to use technology wisely by checking information carefully, protecting personal information, staying safe online and using digital tools responsibly. Schools across Jammu and Kashmir can support this by teaching online safety, responsible use of technology and critical thinking. Around the world, Australia and the United Kingdom have introduced measures to strengthen children's online safety. Across the country, states including Karnataka and Delhi have also issued guidance to schools and families on healthy technology use and online safety. Together, these efforts reflect a shared commitment to helping children benefit from technology while supporting their overall wellbeing and development. Kashmir has always valued education, strong family relationships and community life. These values provide a strong foundation for helping children develop healthy technology habits while making the most of the opportunities that technology offers. Technology is now part of modern life. The goal is not to keep children away from screens completely but to ensure that technology supports learning and growth without replacing sleep, play, exercise, family time and real-life friendships. The children of Kashmir deserve the best of both worlds. They should grow up confident in using technology for learning and opportunity while also enjoying the simple experiences that make childhood special, playing outdoors, reading books, sharing meals with family and spending time with the people who matter most. A healthy childhood is not defined by the absence of screens, but by the presence of balance. When used wisely, technology can support learning, communication and opportunity while leaving enough room for play, family, friendships and the everyday experiences that help children grow. (The Author writes on technology and digital wellbeing. Feedback: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )
Apni Party will push Centre to restore J-K rights: Bukhari
Srinagar, July 19: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Sunday said his party would continue to press the Centre for restoration of the constitutional rights of Jammu and Kashmir while ensuring protection of its demographic character. Addressing a workers convention in Bandipora, Bukhari said the solution to the issues confronting Jammu and Kashmir lay in New Delhi, and urged the Government of India to initiate a meaningful dialogue with people to address their concerns. Jammu and Kashmir is destined to remain a part of India, and the solutions to all our problems will also come from New Delhi. Apni Party will compel the Centre to restore the constitutional rights of J&K, he said. He said concerns regarding demographic changes and any attempt to alter the Muslim-majority character of Jammu and Kashmir would be taken up with the Centre. Bukhari also referred to the Prime Ministers assurance of bridging the Dili aur Dil Ki Dooriyan, saying it was the right time for the Centre to engage with people and address their grievances. Targeting the National Conference, Bukhari questioned its silence on the restoration of statehood after August 5, 2019, saying the party had raised the issue only after coming to power following the 2024 Assembly elections. He alleged that the NC had failed to protect the rights of Jammu and Kashmir over the decades and accused it of misleading people with promises made during the 2024 election campaign. Highlighting local issues in Bandipora, the Apni Party chief demanded early construction of the Gurez Tunnel to provide all-weather connectivity to Gurez Valley and also sought completion of the Bandipora-Sogam road. He blamed successive governments for neglecting the districts development and raised concerns over inadequate infrastructure in hospitals and schools besides lack of basic amenities in tribal areas. On mining, Bukhari alleged that locals had been deprived of their traditional rights while outsiders were allowed to extract resources from rivers. He demanded that traditional mining rights be restored to local people. Expressing concern over unemployment, he said lack of job opportunities among youth was contributing to growing frustration and the drug menace. During the convention, Kashmir Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir urged party workers to intensify public outreach and remain connected with people at the grassroots level. On the occasion, youth leader Sameer Iqbal from National Conference in Kuloosa, Bandipora, joined the Apni Party along with his supporters.
The Timeless Wisdom of Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Alam's Shrukhs
Every civilization preserves its soul in the words of those rare individuals who rise above the limitations of their age and speak to humanity across generations. Empires crumble, political systems undergo change, and social structures evolve, yet the wisdom of great thinkers continues to illuminate the path of mankind. Kashmir, a land celebrated for its unparalleled natural beauty and rich intellectual heritage, possesses such a timeless treasure in the Shrukhs of Sheikh-ul-Alam, also known as Nund Rishi. These short yet profound poetic compositions have transcended the boundaries of religion, language, and time to become an enduring source of moral, spiritual, and literary inspiration. The significance of the Shrukhs lies not merely in their devotional character but in their remarkable ability to address the eternal questions of human existence. They explore the relationship between man and God, between humanity and nature, and between the individual and society. Their appeal is universal because they concern themselves with values that remain relevant irrespective of historical period or cultural background. One of the most remarkable achievements of Sheikh-ul-Alam (R.A) was his decision to communicate in Kashmiri, the language of ordinary people. At a time when scholarship and religious discourse were largely confined to Persian and Arabic, he transformed the spoken language of the common people into a vehicle capable of expressing profound philosophical thought. In doing so, he democratized wisdom. Spirituality was no longer the exclusive domain of scholars and theologians; it became accessible to farmers, artisans, shepherds, and labourers. This choice alone marks him as not merely a saint but also a pioneering literary figure whose influence helped shape the evolution of Kashmiri literature. The Shrukh as a poetic form possesses extraordinary literary merit. Characterized by brevity, rhythmic elegance, symbolic richness, and philosophical depth, these verses demonstrate how profound truths may be conveyed through the simplest of expressions. Their language is free from unnecessary ornamentation, yet every line carries multiple layers of meaning. This artistic economy gives the Shrukhs an enduring freshness. Each reading reveals new dimensions, allowing successive generations to discover meanings relevant to their own experiences. Unlike lengthy philosophical treatises, the Shrukhs condense wisdom into memorable aphoristic expressions. Their musical cadence enabled them to be preserved through oral tradition long before they were systematically compiled. In villages across Kashmir, generations memorized these verses not because they were required to do so but because they found in them guidance for everyday living. Thus, the Shrukhs became part of the cultural consciousness of Kashmir, shaping ethical conduct as much as literary taste. At the heart of Sheikh-ul-Alam's poetry lies an unwavering commitment to moral integrity. He repeatedly reminds his readers that genuine spirituality cannot be measured by outward rituals, elaborate ceremonies, or displays of religious identity. True devotion, according to him, manifests itself through humility, compassion, honesty, self-restraint, and service to others. Such teachings remain strikingly relevant in an age where external appearances often overshadow inner character. His poetry consistently warns against the dangers of greed and excessive attachment to material possessions. Human beings, he suggests, frequently mistake wealth for happiness and status for fulfilment, only to discover that neither provides lasting peace. Real contentment arises not from accumulation but from moderation and inner discipline. This philosophy appears particularly significant in today's consumer-driven society, where success is often measured by material acquisition rather than ethical conduct. Another distinguishing feature of the Shrukhs is their profound concern for social justice. Sheikh-ul-Alam rejected discrimination based on wealth, caste, occupation, or social standing. He affirmed the dignity of labour and emphasized that every individual deserves respect by virtue of being human. His verses challenge arrogance, exploitation, hypocrisy, and injustice with remarkable courage. Rather than offering abstract sermons, he addressed the practical realities of everyday life, encouraging individuals to cultivate fairness, kindness, and compassion in their dealings with others. This concern for social harmony is perhaps one reason why the Shrukhs continue to resonate across diverse communities. Their ethical vision is inclusive rather than exclusive. They do not seek to divide humanity into opposing camps but instead emphasize the common moral responsibilities shared by all people. Such a perspective holds immense significance in contemporary societies increasingly marked by polarization and intolerance. Among Sheikh-ul-Alam's most enduring contributions is his remarkable ecological consciousness. His celebrated dictum, often translated as Food will last as long as forests last, has acquired almost prophetic significance in the twenty-first century. Long before environmental conservation emerged as a global concern, he recognized the inseparable relationship between human survival and the preservation of nature. This insight demonstrates that ecological awareness is not merely a scientific concern but also an ethical responsibility. Forests, rivers, mountains, and fertile lands are not resources to be exploited without restraint but sacred trusts upon which future generations depend. In an era confronting climate change, deforestation, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation, Sheikh-ul-Alam's wisdom appears astonishingly contemporary. His message reminds us that sustainable living begins with humility before nature and recognition of humanity's dependence upon ecological balance. The literary greatness of the Shrukhs also lies in their remarkable use of imagery and symbolism. Everyday objects become metaphors for profound philosophical ideas. Agriculture, seasons, flowing streams, mountains, birds, flowers, and trees acquire symbolic significance, enabling readers to perceive spiritual truths through familiar experiences. This intimate connection with the natural environment gives the poetry both authenticity and emotional resonance. Equally significant is the close intellectual relationship between the Shrukhs of Sheikh-ul-Alam and the Vakhs of Lal Ded. Although they belonged to different religious traditions and employed distinct symbolic vocabularies, both sought to awaken the human conscience through introspection rather than dogmatism. Both rejected empty ritualism and emphasized direct spiritual experience. Together they laid the foundations of Kashmir's unique mystical and literary tradition, demonstrating that truth cannot be confined within narrow sectarian boundaries. The dialogue established by these two towering figures helped shape the cultural ethos often associated with Kashmir's tradition of coexistence, mutual respect, and shared spirituality. Their writings continue to remind us that literature possesses the extraordinary capacity to build bridges where ideological divisions create walls. From a literary perspective, the Shrukhs deserve recognition alongside the finest examples of mystical poetry produced anywhere in the world. Their philosophical subtlety, emotional restraint, linguistic precision, and symbolic richness invite serious scholarly engagement. They reward literary criticism as much as spiritual reflection. Every verse offers opportunities for interpretation, making them fertile ground for researchers interested in philosophy, linguistics, comparative literature, ethics, and cultural studies. Yet perhaps the greatest achievement of the Shrukhs is that they never lose sight of ordinary human life. Their wisdom is practical rather than abstract. They speak to farmers cultivating fields, craftsmen pursuing honest work, parents raising children, students seeking knowledge, and individuals struggling with doubt, ambition, and suffering. Their enduring appeal lies precisely in this ability to unite philosophical reflection with everyday experience. Modern society, despite unprecedented technological advancement, faces profound moral challenges. Loneliness persists amidst digital connectivity. Material abundance often coexists with emotional emptiness. Public discourse is increasingly shaped by hostility rather than understanding. Environmental degradation threatens future generations, while ethical considerations frequently yield to immediate self-interest. Against this backdrop, the Shrukhs acquire renewed significance. Their message is neither nostalgic nor outdated. Instead, it offers an alternative vision of human progressone rooted not merely in economic development but in ethical maturity. They remind us that genuine civilization depends not solely upon scientific innovation or material prosperity but equally upon compassion, honesty, humility, and respect for both humanity and nature. For contemporary readers, therefore, the Shrukhs should not be approached as historical relics preserved within the pages of old manuscripts. They are living texts whose wisdom continues to challenge, inspire, and guide. Their relevance increases rather than diminishes with time because they address permanent dimensions of the human condition. Every generation must rediscover its classical heritage in the light of contemporary realities. The enduring greatness of Sheikh-ul-Alam's Shrukhs lies precisely in their capacity to participate in this ongoing dialogue between past and present. They neither imprison us within tradition nor encourage the rejection of tradition. Instead, they invite us to cultivate wisdom capable of responding creatively to changing circumstances while remaining anchored in enduring moral values. In remembering Sheikh-ul-Alam(R.A), we do more than honour a revered saint or celebrate a literary pioneer. We acknowledge a voice that continues to speak with extraordinary clarity to an increasingly uncertain world. His Shrukhs remind us that the highest purpose of literature is not merely aesthetic pleasure but the awakening of conscience. Their enduring message affirms that societies flourish not through power or wealth alone but through compassion, justice, humility, and reverence for life. That is why the Shrukhs remain not only among the greatest achievements of Kashmiri literature but also among humanity's enduring moral inheritancesa timeless compass pointing towards a more humane and harmonious future. (The writer is RK Columnist and can be reached at: sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com )
When a Photon Becomes a Thought: Could Black Holes Hold the Universe's Deepest Secret?
A single photon, after travelling across space for probably billions of years, reaches the human eye. The instant it enters the eye and strikes the retina, it loses itself forever as a photon. It never returns or reflects into the universe. Instead, it surprisingly starts to be transformed. Photon makes light that transforms into an electrical signal, perception, memory, and ultimately conscious experience. Ah, a piece of the cosmos turns into an idea. This straightforward observation prompted a query that has persisted in my thoughts. Photons are also absorbed by a black hole. Additionally, those photons never return in their original form into the universe. Could these two seemingly unconnected incidents have a deep connection? One is the source of human awareness, while the other is still one of the biggest mysteries in physics. I do not claim that this is proven science. I offer it as a philosophical investigation. It seems that human consciousness develops not just from the absorption of photons but also from the transformation, integration, memory, and experience of the information those photons carry. The language of light is transformed into the language of meaning by the human brain. Black holes could be amazing information stores, according to modern physics. Many scientists concur that information itself is crucial to comprehending black holes, despite ongoing disagreements about how information is stored there. John Archibald Wheeler, a physicist, has said that we live in a participatory universe, where reality is shaped by observation itself. If Wheeler was correct, awareness is an essential aspect of the universe itself rather than just an accidental consequence of biology. Take a moment to consider how unlikely it is that you exist. Every atom in your body was created in the nuclear furnaces of extinct stars that dispersed their rich remnants around the galaxy after they perished spectacularly. The calcium in your bones, the carbon in your cells, and the oxygen in your lungs all originated from stellar catastrophes billions of years ago. The universe gradually accumulated the chemical components required for life across innumerable generations of stars. Then, over the course of an uninterrupted evolutionary process that lasted about four billion years on Earth, those components arranged themselves into the complex brain networks that enable you to comprehend these words and consider their meaning. This is not just a matter-and-energy tale. We can never fully comprehend the hing-in-itself, the noumenal reality that exists apart from our perception, according to renowned philosopher Immanuel Kant. We only ever encounter phenomena, which are the outward manifestations of objects mediated by our senses and organised by our minds. You don't actually experience the old photon when it hits your retina. Your brain reconstructs that photon using chemical gradients, electrical signals, and synaptic firings, and you experience the neural representation of that photon. Instead of the actual world, you encounter a meticulously constructed imitation of it. Nevertheless, this imitation or simulation's effectiveness is astounding. It makes it possible for you to move around your surroundings, identify faces, admire beauty, fall in love, make art, develop ideas about black holes, and pose meaningful queries about the essence of life. We have constructed entire civilizations on the simulation because it is so effective. We have created mathematical languages that describe the subatomic world and the distant galaxies, surveyed the universe with our instruments, and even started to decipher the neurological circuitry that makes it all possible. However, as we acquire more knowledge, we become more aware of how much we do not know about the reality. A reality that is essentially probabilistic, non-local, and possibly even observer-dependent is what quantum mechanics offers us. Furthermore, theoretical paradoxes presented by black holes, those mysterious areas of spacetime where gravity grows so strong that not even light can escape, threaten our most treasured beliefs, such as the conservation of information. Herein lies the fresh relevance of our philosophical investigation. If black holes are, in fact, stores of vast amounts of information that are arranged and integrated in ways that are difficult for us to comprehend, we must ask: Could such remarkable information integration lead to the emergence of something similar to consciousness? A daring inquiry is raised by this. If the integration of information is closely linked to consciousness, is it possible that the cosmos has forms of consciousness that are very different from our own? I'm not saying that black holes think like people do. Such a claim would be unsupported by logic or evidence. Instead, I question if our biological conception of awareness is too limited. Maybe the concept of awareness is just one way that nature expresses a more fundamental idea. Neurons are the building blocks of human organisation. Could the cosmos possess other architectures of organization beyond biology? Consciousness is produced by billions of neurons arranged in a brain; it cannot be found in a single neuron. In a similar vein, a single star lacks consciousness, but billions of stars arranged in a galaxy may exhibit some kind of cosmic awareness that functions on spatial and temporal scales that are beyond our comprehension. About 86 billion neurons make up the neuronal network of the human brain, each of which is coupled to thousands of other neurons to form an astounding 100 trillion synaptic connections. Each of the galaxy's roughly 100 billion stars is gravitationally connected to every other star, forming an incredibly intricate cosmic web. Is there any possibility that the galaxy has consciousness? Though that may sound like science fiction, keep in mind that the universe has had 13.8 billion years to organize itself. Only in the last few hundred thousand years has human consciousness appeared on Earth; it is a fleeting moment in cosmic time. The universe continued to change even if there was no life on Earth as we know it prior to it. Planets came together, stars ignited, and galaxies emerged. Was there any ambiguous consciousness inherent in the structure of matter itself, or was this merely mechanistic and unaware? Some philosophers, especially those who support panpsychism, contend that consciousness is a fundamental feature of the cosmos and can be found in nature to varied degrees. Similar to how mass and charge are intrinsic properties of matter, consciousness may also exist in its most basic form and develop into more complex awareness as complexity rises. Therefore, the photon that transforms into a thought might not signify the emergence of awareness but rather the discovery of a more profound unity already present in reality. Baruch Spinoza shared this worldview, viewing mind and matter as two manifestations of the same underlying reality rather than as distinct things. If this is the case, we are participants in a universe that is progressively becoming aware of itself through our ideas, discoveries, and creative endeavours rather than detached viewers of the universe that appears to frighten you.The great poet Rainer Maria Rilke once wrote: Perhaps everything that frightens us is, in its deepest essence, something helpless that wants our love. This sentiment can be extended to the universe itself. The cosmos, in all its vastness and mystery, may be something that wants to be known, understood, and loved. Now let us get back to the black hole. The photon is lost to our view when it passes through the event horizon. The entire structure of spacetime keeps information from escaping the gravitational abyss, so we can never know what happens to itnot because physics forbids it. In contrast, the photon that entered the human eye started a series of brain processes that led to conscious perception. With our tools, we can measure, trace, and comprehend that pathwayat least in principle. However, there may be a deeper affinity between these two photons. Both are taken up, changed, and included into a bigger system. Both help to organize the data. Both take part in reality's continuous growth. One leads to human awareness, whereas the other causes a black hole to grow. Is it possible that black holes are cosmic wombs rather than cosmic prisons, where information is processed, changed, and reborn in different forms? The Orch-OR theory, put forth by physicist Sir Roger Penrose and anesthesiologist Stuart Hameroff, suggests that quantum events in neuronal microtubules are the source of consciousness. If this theory is correct, then quantum processes that also function close to black hole event horizons are necessary for awareness. The emergence of mind and the quantum qualities of matter may have a profound relationship. Even though it may seem radical, let's consider one more idea. Black holes may be the world's most sophisticated quantum computers if they are areas of spacetime where quantum gravity takes over and if quantum gravity entails significant information processing. And if advanced quantum computing is a prerequisite for consciousness at the cosmic scale, then black holes might indeed be consciousnot in any biological sense, but in a manner appropriate to their nature. How might such awareness manifest itself? It would exist on timescales that are incomprehensible to humans. It could take millions of years for an idea to develop. Our world would be dwarfed by the spatial sizes at which it would function. It would see space and time in ways that are beyond our comprehension. It would be completely real, completely alien, and completely ambiguous. Some people might reject this notion right away. It could be interesting to others. Both answers are worthwhile. Advancement has never relied solely on consensus; rather, it has relied on intelligent inquiry carried out with integrity. Science advances through evidence. Philosophy advances through reason. I am presenting it as an invitation to broaden your perspective, challenge your presumptions, and enjoy the mystery of life. When someone dared to pose an absurd question, the greatest scientific revolutions got underway. What would it be like to ride a beam of light, Einstein wondered? Heisenberg questioned if the act of observing itself could influence what was seen. Hawking questioned whether black holes could emit light. At the time, each of these queries seemed ridiculous. They all changed the way we perceived the world. Now, I want you to think about this: what if consciousness is not limited to the brain? What if there is more life, awareness, and significance in the universe than we have ever dreamed? What if our search for understanding is not merely a human pursuit but a cosmic imperative? The photon that enters your eye and the photon that vanishes into a black hole are both components of the same narrative, that of a universe that is constantly organizing, changing, and maybe even reflecting on itself. The information that forms a black hole and the information that creates your idea are both components of the same information, the information that makes up reality. We don't know if black holes have consciousness. Whether the universe thinks or not is unknown to us. However, we are aware that we are here, posing these queries, and that by doing so, we are taking part in something remarkable. The answer lies in the query. The destination is the journey. Both the photon that turns into a black hole and the photon that turns into a thought are journeys into the unknown. It is a voyage from existence to awareness, from matter to meaning, from physics to philosophy. Every day, every sunrise, every glance, and every question we dare to ask are all part of this trip. I propose a philosophical possibility: every orbit may conceal a deeper orbit, and every centre may seek a deeper centre. Beyond the final centre may lie not just another black hole, but the only reality that needs no centre, the Absolute Centre of Consciousness. (The Author is a PhD in Physics, Principal at the Government Higher Secondary School, Qaimoh, Kulgam. E-mail: sajadphysics@gmail.com )
SMVDU secures 28 lakh AICTE grant for automotive research
Jammu, July 20: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) has secured a 28 lakh Research Promotion Scheme (RPS) grant from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) for an advanced research project aimed at developing innovative 3D-printed solutions for the automotive sector. The project, titled 3D Printed Functionally Graded Lattice Structures for Enhanced Energy Absorption and Acoustics for Automotive Applications, will be led by Dr Ankush Raina as Principal Investigator, with Dr Mir Irfan ul Haq as Co-Principal Investigator. The research will be carried out in collaboration with IIT Ropar, NIT Kurukshetra and an industry partner, combining academic and industrial expertise to develop lightweight structures that improve vehicle safety, reduce noise and promote sustainable design. Vice Chancellor Prof. Pragati Kumar congratulated the research team, describing the AICTE grant as a significant achievement for the university and a reflection of its growing research capabilities. Dr Ankush Raina thanked AICTE for its support and acknowledged the encouragement of the university administration. He said the project would advance research in additive manufacturing while providing students and young researchers with opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies with real-world applications. University officials said the project marks another milestone in SMVDU's efforts to strengthen research and innovation in engineering while contributing to national priorities in technology, sustainability and industrial development.
Tourist rush grows at Dubjan, Peer Ki Gali, visitors seek better facilities
Shopian, July 19: Tourist footfall at the scenic destinations of Dubjan and Peer Ki Gali along the historic Mughal Road has witnessed a sharp rise this year, with thousands of visitors from across the country and different parts of Jammu and Kashmir flocking to the picturesque locations. Locals attributed the growing popularity of the destinations to the Winter Carnivals organised by the district administration in 2025 and 2026, which helped showcase Dubjan's tourism potential. Since then, visitor numbers have increased significantly during both the winter and summer seasons. Tourists praised the area's lush meadows, cool weather and serene surroundings but expressed concern over the lack of basic infrastructure. They pointed to the absence of public toilets, dustbins, mobile connectivity and proper waste management facilities, saying these shortcomings affect the overall visitor experience. A newly married couple from Rajasthan, who also visited Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Srinagar, described Dubjan as one of the most beautiful destinations in Kashmir but urged the government to develop essential tourist facilities. Safety has also emerged as a major concern, particularly near the stream adjoining the Dubjan bridge, where tourists frequently gather. Earlier this year, a three-year-old boy drowned after slipping into the stream, prompting fresh calls for protective railings and other safety measures. Social activist Mitha Gatto urged the administration to install permanent safety barriers around the bridge, while Wildlife Department employee Zubair Ahmad Punoo appealed to visitors, especially families with children, to exercise caution near the fast-flowing stream. Responding to the concerns, Chief Executive Officer of the Shopian-Dubjan-Peer Ki Gali Development Authority, Mohammad Rouf, said development works are constrained as much of the area falls under the Forest and Wildlife Departments. He said the authority is coordinating with the concerned departments to provide essential facilities, including toilets and other public amenities. Rouf also said a proposal has been submitted to the government for the construction of a Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) at Peer Ki Gali to cater to visitors from both the Shopian and Rajouri sides of the Mughal Road.
Chinar Book Festival draws big crowd despite rain
Srinagar, July 19: Persistent rain and overcast skies failed to deter book lovers as the second day of the Chinar Book Festival witnessed a strong turnout at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) on the banks of Dal Lake on Sunday. Families, students, teachers and literature enthusiasts thronged the festival venue, where the day featured thought-provoking literary discussions, interactive childrens workshops and cultural performances celebrating Kashmir's rich artistic heritage. The literary sessions at the Authors' Corner opened with a panel discussion titled Beyond the Headlines: Journalism as Storytelling, offering students an insight into the changing landscape of journalism. Moderated by senior journalist Javaid Malik, the session featured Sanjeev Gupta of Dainik Jagran, Naresh Kaushik of PTI, Prashant Asthana of Navbharat Times and Nayanika Sengupta of Hindustan Times. The panellists discussed the evolution of print, television and digital journalism, the growing influence of social media and the responsibilities that come with reporting in the digital age. Students from BHSS Mujgund, Sultan-ul-Arifeen School, Kashmir Harvard Educational Institute, Blue Bells School, GHSS Rainawari, Government Polytechnic College Bemina and Government Degree College Kulgam actively participated, raising questions on newsroom ethics, career opportunities, reporting skills and the future of journalism. The speakers encouraged aspiring journalists to uphold curiosity, integrity and a strong commitment to factual reporting. Another major attraction at the Authors Corner was a session titled Urdu, Kashmiriyat and the Rich Tapestry of Shared Cultural Tradition. Moderated by Dr Hafeezur Rahman, Convenor of the Khusro Foundation, New Delhi, the discussion featured Prof Mufti Mudassir Farooqui, Head of the Department of English at the University of Kashmir, and educationist Asiya Qadir, Academic Head of Birla Open Minds International School. Prof Farooqui highlighted the close relationship between Kashmir's Sufi and Rishi traditions, describing them as the foundation of the Valleys culture of coexistence and communal harmony. Asiya Qadir underscored the importance of multilingual learning, saying languages help broaden perspectives and strengthen social and cultural bonds. Festival organisers said more than 4,000 students from schools, colleges and universities across Srinagar and adjoining districts participated in various activities on the second day. Of them, over 2,500 children attended interactive sessions at the Childrens Corner. Young participants engaged in an Art Safari paper craft workshop organised by the Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya, where they created colourful paper butterflies while learning creative craft techniques. Students were also introduced to the Ministry of Educations digital library, which offers free access to more than 7,000 e-books in 23 languages. The Childrens Corner also hosted a Book Cover Design Workshop conducted by the National Centre for Children's Literature (NCCL), followed by Harf-o-Hunar: English Calligraphy Workshop led by Malik Mukhtar, where students explored the art of elegant lettering. The festivals cultural programme showcased Kashmir's vibrant folk traditions through performances by Raja Art and Culture, Dilshad Cultural Forum, Kalidas Theatre Group and Pompoush Folk Theatre. The evening concluded with musical performances by Dr Shazia Hameed, Rashida Akhter and Abid Ali, adding a festive atmosphere despite the rainy weather.
Cloudburst hits Daksum, tourist movement suspended
Anantnag, July 19: A cloudburst hit Bangidar in Daksum on Sunday, prompting authorities to assess the situation on the ground amid an India Meteorological Department forecast of heavy rainfall over the coming days. The Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Kokernag, visited the affected area along with the Deputy Superintendent of Police, personnel of the CRPF's 164 Battalion, the Assistant Executive Engineer of Irrigation and Flood Control, and officials of the Forest, Wildlife and Sheep Husbandry departments. An official said no loss of life or damage to property had been reported from the area, and that the water level had started receding, with the situation presently under control. The concerned departments have been directed to remain on alert and continue close monitoring of the area, the official added. In view of the adverse weather conditions and the risk of landslides, shooting stones and flash floods in the upper reaches of the sub-division, the SDM has barred tourists from travelling beyond Bidhard. A complete ban has also been imposed on trekking to Sinthantop, Choharnag, Fambar Valley and Margantop till further orders.
Rain Brings Relief from Heatwave Across Jammu Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Widespread rainfall across most parts of Kashmir on Sunday brought relief from the intense heatwave that had gripped the Valley over the past several days, although the downpour caused waterlogging in parts of Srinagar as the Meteorological Department warned of more heavy rain until July 23. The rainfall came a day after most weather []
Flash Floods Claim 17 Lives Across Jammu Region; Search Continues For Missing In Surankote
Heavy rain and cloudbursts trigger widespread devastation in Poonch and Rajouri, leaving 17 dead as rescue teams search for the missing
Iran says missile attack targets outskirts of Abadan, reports no casualties
Tehran [Iran], July 19 (ANI): Iranian authorities said an area on the outskirts of Abadan in Khuzestan province was hit in a missile attack on Sunday, according to Iranian state broadcaster IRIB. Valiullah Hayati, Deputy Security and Police Officer of the Khuzestan Governorate, said, A few minutes ago, an area outside the city limits and on the outskirts of Abadan was attacked with missiles by the terrorist enemy of America. He said the attack did not result in any casualties.Hayati added that further information would be announced later. The allegations of strikes come as Iran on Sunday claimed that the errorist and criminal regime of the US has attacked the under-construction Darkhovin nuclear power plant in Khuzestan province, according to the state broadcaster IRIB. In a statement carried out by IRIB, the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI) alleged that the strike took place at around 3:39 am (local time) on Sunday. The terrorist and criminal regime of the US, which has no nature other than bullying and lawlessness, in an aggressive and brutal act contrary to international law, attacked the Darkhoin power plant site under construction - one of the symbols of the dignity and scientific self-sufficiency of the Iranian nation - with a number of projectiles, AEOI said. The strike comes as US President Donald Trump said that he couldn't care less about Iran's decision to stop abiding by the US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MoU), reiterating that Washington's priority remains preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, Al Jazeera reported. Speaking in a brief phone interview with US cable network NewsNation, Trump was asked about Tehran's announcement that it would no longer adhere to the interim agreement signed with the United States last month. I couldn't care less, Trump said. He added that the war's primary objective is ever allowing Iran to have a nuclear weapon. The MoU was signed between Washington and Tehran in mid-June to end the war launched by the US and Israel in February. The latest exchange of deadly strikes began amid disagreements over the management of the Strait of Hormuz. According to the latest updates, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps says it has intercepted and destroyed a US MQ-9 drone in Ahvaz, a city in the Khuzestan region that borders Iraq, state-run Press TV reported. Earlier on Sunday, Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei called the United States Great Satan and said it was no longer capable of maintaining a rouble-free, domineering presence across West Asia. In a written communication addressed to the citizens of Iraq on Sunday, Khamenei, who was selected in March to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, following his killing on February 28 in the US-Israel strikes, stated, The Great Satan--the criminal US--has now realised that the continuation of its trouble-free, domineering presence in the region is nothing but a naive fantasy. Pointing to the large crowds of mourners who gathered across Iran and Iraq for the funeral of his father, Khamenei remarked that the events had opened a new chapter of awakening and active engagement to alter the equations that had been designed by the Arrogant Powers. He further remarked, Undoubtedly, the leaders of Global Arrogance witnessed the magnificent scenes of this massive gathering in Iraq with trepidation, seeing how the vast resources they've invested to undermine relations between the two nations have proved entirely futile and ineffective. The development comes amid a sharp escalation in regional hostilities, with US Central Command (CENTCOM) carrying out a series of military operations targeting Iranian assets. The strikes mark an eighth consecutive night of kinetic actions against Tehran-backed facilities in the region. The attack came in the follow-up of an announcement that the two US military personnel were killed in Jordan and another was missing following an Iranian strike. (ANI)
Jammu Kashmir HC Quashes Post-Acquittal Execution Proceedings in Cheque Bounce Case
SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh has quashed the execution proceedings and property attachment orders initiated by a magistrate after the acquittal of an accused in a cheque bounce case. Setting aside the lower court orders, the High Court ruled that once a criminal court dismisses a complaint and acquits the accused []
Delhi Police Says No Permission Granted for Protest Marches Ahead of Parliament Session
SRINAGAR: Delhi Police on Sunday clarified that no permission has been sought or granted for any protest march or procession in the New Delhi district ahead of the commencement of the Parliament session on Sunday. Prohabitory orders u/s 163 BNSS are in force in New Delhi District except designated protest site at Jantar Mantar Road. []
CM orders six-hourly situation reports till July 24, asks officials to ensure rescue, restoration of essential services and uninterrupted supply of relief materials.
NC president urges swift damage assessment, rehabilitation measures as rescue operations continue in flood and landslide-hit areas
NTA Warns NEET-UG 2026 Candidates Against Submitting Fake, AI-Generated OMR Sheets
SRINAGAR: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has warned NEET-UG 2026 candidates and their parents against submitting fake or AI-generated OMR sheets while raising complaints over score discrepancies, cautioning that such submissions could invite legal action. The advisory follows the agencys scrutiny of complaints from candidates claiming differences between their expected and declared scores. During verification, []
Wangchuk Stable, Needs Continuous Medical Monitoring: Safdarjung Hospital
Hospital says activist's vital parameters are stable, but prolonged hunger strike necessitates round-the-clock medical care and close monitoring by a multidisciplinary team
AIP Stands With Flash Flood Victims, Urges Swift Relief and Rehabilitation
Srinagar, July 19: The Jammu Kashmir Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of lives caused by the devastating flash floods in the Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir. In a statement, the party said it was deeply saddened by the calamity and extended its heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. It prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families during this difficult time. The party said that in this hour of grief, it stands firmly with the affected people and urged the administration to expedite rescue and relief operations, ensure proper medical care for the injured, and provide immediate compensation and rehabilitation to the families of the deceased as well as those displaced by the disaster. AIP also appealed to citizens, volunteers, and civil society organizations to come forward and assist in relief efforts. The party reiterated that it would do everything within its capacity to support the victims and work towards long-term measures aimed at preventing such tragedies in the future. The statement was issued by Sheikh Ashiq, State Secretary of the Jammu Kashmir Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) and former President of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Two Detained Over Alleged Obscene Act Near Vaishno Devi Bhawan After Viral Video
Police register FIR under BNS, launch hunt for two remaining accused; one juvenile handed over to family as per law
Meta Outage Disrupts Instagram, Facebook Services Globally
Sunday July 19 : Instagram and Facebook experienced a widespread service disruption on Sunday, with thousands of users reporting issues accessing key features across Meta's platforms. According to outage-tracking website Downdetector, Users from multiple countries said they were unable to load their Instagram feeds, view profiles, or post Stories. Several Facebook users reported receiving an Account Temporarily Unavailable message, while others said their news feeds failed to refresh or displayed only a limited number of posts before showing errors. The cause of the disruption had not been officially confirmed at the time of reporting. Meta had not released a statement explaining the outage or providing an estimated timeline for full service restoration. Technology experts note that account-related error messages can sometimes result from browser cache issues or account-specific restrictions. However, during a large-scale platform outage, such problems are often linked to server-side disruptions rather than individual user devices. Users experiencing issues may try basic troubleshooting steps such as restarting the application, clearing the app or browser cache, checking their internet connection, or logging out and signing back in. However, if the disruption is caused by a broader service outage, these measures are unlikely to restore access until Meta resolves the underlying technical issue. The situation remains under observation, with users awaiting an official update from Meta.
Srinagar, July 19: National Conference Member of Parliament Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan on Saturday pitched for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood, constitutional rights and state subject laws during the All-Party Floor Leaders' Meeting convened ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament in New Delhi. The meeting, convened by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and attended by Union Ministers of State for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal and L. Murugan, besides floor leaders and representatives of major political parties from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Addressing the meeting, Ramzan termed the August 5, 2019 decisions a lack day in the history of Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that they were taken unilaterally and deprived the people of their constitutional rights, identity and statehood by reducing the erstwhile state to a Union Territory. He said the outcome of the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections reflected the people's rejection of the policies linked to the August 5 decisions and represented a clear mandate for the restoration of statehood and constitutional rights. Seeking immediate restoration of statehood, Ramzan reminded the meeting that both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had publicly assured that full statehood would be restored. He also referred to the Supreme Court's observations calling for restoration of statehood at the earliest after delimitation and elections. Questioning the delay, he said nearly two years had passed since the formation of an elected government in Jammu and Kashmir, yet the promise remained unfulfilled. He urged the Centre to honour its commitment without any further delay instead of repeatedly stating that it would be done at an appropriate time. Ramzan further said that despite the presence of a democratically elected government with a strong public mandate, several key powers continued to remain with the Lieutenant Governor. He demanded that the elected government be fully empowered and called for the immediate restoration of full statehood, constitutional rights and state subject laws. Raising humanitarian concerns, the NC MP sought the transfer of prisoners from Jammu and Kashmir lodged in jails outside the Union Territory back to the Valley. He said such a move would facilitate access to legal counsel and court proceedings while easing the financial burden on their families. He also urged the government to compassionately review the cases of those accused of minor offences, saying that despite earlier assurances, no meaningful progress had been made. Ramzan also highlighted concerns over the safety and security of Kashmiris living outside Jammu and Kashmir. He said students, labourers, traders, businessmen and professionals from Kashmir often become targets of harassment and intimidation following incidents elsewhere in the country. He urged the Central Government to take effective measures to ensure their safety, dignity and protection. He also appealed to opposition parties to join the National Conference's proposed protest in New Delhi for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood. Extending the invitation on behalf of the party and its president, Dr Farooq Abdullah, Ramzan said the protest would serve as a democratic reminder to the Central Government to fulfil its commitment to restore statehood and the constitutional rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
People must strengthen spirit of equal respect for all religions: Lieutenant Governor
Srinagar, July 19: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today addressed Interfaith Dialogue for Harmony in Baramulla, organised by the Save Youth Save Future Foundation. He commended the Save Youth Save Future Foundation for their contribution to the drug-free Jammu Kashmir campaign. He said the young volunteers worked selflessly and took on a great responsibility for a better future for UT. Through this campaign we have strengthened trust within our families and institutions, reinforced youth's confidence in their future, and sent a message across the country that when a society rises up on its own, it can overcome biggest challenges, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted that this land of Jammu Kashmir embodies harmony and brotherhood. For generations, people of different faiths received respect and experienced spiritual peace. It is the lasting legacy of the saints, Sufis, and Rishis who spent centuries teaching our people the power of love, compassion, and unity. Lal Deds teachings didnt belong to one religion. Her Vakh spoke directly to the human heart. She never judged people by their faith. Instead, Lal Ded focused on bringing different ways of worship together. Similarly, Sheikh-ul-Alam showed us that true devotion isn't about conflict or division. It is found in compassion and in serving every single human being. The flourishing rishi-sufi tradition in Kashmir does not proclaim the superiority of one faith. Its message is that all religions and beliefs draw their strength from the same existence, and I believe this teaching is our shared heritage. This heritage does not belong only to Hindus, only to Muslims, only to Sikhs, Buddhists, or Christians. It is the legacy of every citizen born on this sacred land, and protecting this heritage is our moral and spiritual duty. We must safeguard this harmony in the same way we protect our families, the Lieutenant Governor said. He also stated that social and religious harmony is the cornerstone on which a strong society, a strong Jammu Kashmir, and a developed India can be built. When the people move in peaceful coexistence then the energy of society becomes the greatest force for development. That is why I strongly believe that harmony is both a moral necessity for the people and the foundation of economic prosperity and it also a guarantee of a brighter future for coming generations. We must strengthen the spirit of equal respect for all religions so that every citizen can progress with equal opportunities. We must reinforce mutual goodwill so that poverty is eliminated from every home. We must unite to promote fraternity so that we can uproot challenges like drug addiction. From the soil of Baramulla today a message should go out that if there is any land in the world that can teach the world that different communities, sects, and faiths can live together in peace, joy, and trust, it is India, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also called upon youth to believe in themselves. Believe in your ability. Believe that you can build a future far brighter than the past you inherited. For a long time, this land suffered from the scourge of drugs and terrorism, and that impacted the consciousness, dreams, and futures of the youth. Today I say with full conviction that that era has now ended. Now the youth of Jammu Kashmir have taken the reins of their future into their own hands, and this Union Territory is moving toward a new era of education, entrepreneurship, innovation, spiritual awareness, and national unity. Let us together build a Jammu Kashmir that is stronger, more prosperous, peaceful, and progressive, the Lieutenant Governor said. During his visit, the Lieutenant Governor also met various public delegations. He assured appropriate action on the issues projected by them. Major General Manoj Joshi, GoC, Dagger Division; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture Department; Dr. Vinod Kumar, DIG North Kashmir Range; Syed Fakhrudin Hamid, Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla; Gurinderpal Singh, SSP Baramulla; Wajahat Farooq Bhat, Chairman, Save Youth Save Future Foundation; members of the Foundation; senior officials, civil society members, prominent citizens, people from different walks of life and youth in large number were present.
Jammu police, NDRF rescue youths stranded in Tawi River
Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], July 19 : Jammu Police and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) on Sunday rescued a group of youths who were stranded in the middle of the Tawi River during a joint rescue operation, officials said. According to the police, the rescue team safely evacuated all those stranded without any casualties. Police officer Viktram Bhau, who was part of the rescue team, said the operation was launched after local residents alerted the authorities about the incident. Three people were rescued after residents alerted the authorities. Police and SDRF teams carried out a two-to-three-hour rescue operation and brought them back, Bhau said. The rescue operation was carried out jointly by the police and disaster response teams, who managed to bring the stranded youths to safety after an operation lasting around two to three hours. Meanwhile, earlier in the day, in view of the prevailing monsoon conditions and the risk of emergencies arising from heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides, waterlogging and road blockages, the Sub-Divisional Administration Katra has constituted a Control Room for Monsoon Disaster Management to ensure prompt response and effective coordination. As per an order issued by Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Katra, Piyush Dhotra (JKAS), the Control Room will function under the overall supervision of Tehsildar Katra, Jatinder Singh, in close coordination with police, PWD, health, power, Jal Shakti, municipal authorities and other concerned departments. The Control Room will maintain a round-the-clock watch over the monsoon situation, receive and record reports regarding heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides, damage to property and disruption of roads, electricity and drinking water supply. It will also ensure timely communication of situation reports to higher authorities for necessary action. Residents and other stakeholders can contact the Katra Monsoon Control Room at 01991-295681 in case of any rain-related emergency or for reporting incidents requiring immediate attention. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has also been temporarily suspended due to prevailing adverse weather conditions in Katra and the Trikuta Hills. The pilgrimage was temporarily halted as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of devotees amid inclement weather. (ANI)
Delhi HC Declines Immediate Relief to Sonam Wangchuk, Says Safdarjung Doctors Monitoring His Health
Court says no immediate intervention needed; plea seeking transfer to private hospital to be heard on July 24
LG Sinha joins Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan in Baramulla, terms it spiritual rebirth for J&K
Srinagar, July 19: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended the Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan in Baramulla. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said in the Sanatan tradition, a yajna represents selfless sacrifice and shared responsibility aimed at fostering global peace. This Sammelan marks a spiritual rebirth for the region. It sends a powerful message of harmony and national unity from Baramulla across Jammu Kashmir and the entire country. For many centuries Baramulla remained a gateway of culture, a confluence of ideas, and a great centre of spiritual knowledge. Through todays Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan we are reviving our glorious heritage of Baramulla. On this land, where all faiths are respected, the Mahayajna is breathing new life into our spiritual legacy, which has given Jammu Kashmir a distinctive and unique identity in the world. Our ancestors, sages and seers prayed Loka Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu-may all beings everywhere be happy and healthy. The view of our sages was always inclusive and compassionate, and today, as the world struggles with divisions and conflict, the prayers rising from this sacred land of Baramulla and the verses of the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita offer humanity a powerful message of peace, goodwill and coexistence, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also stated that our great tradition teaches us to see God in every person. He further added that the spirit of our spiritual tradition removes distinctions of language, region, caste and custom and India stands as a symbol where all religions have flourished. This Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan is a living expression of that national unity, and that is Indias true identity. In the rapidly changing world and a new way of life, we must strengthen the tradition of brotherhood and cultivate virtues such as patience, compassion, sensitivity and selfless love in the younger generation. Secondly, conserving nature should be our spiritual duty. Thousands of years ago our ancestors and sages taught us to revere nature. We called rivers our mothers, regarded trees as life-givers, and the Earth is worshipped as a mother-goddess in the Sanatan tradition. When we leave this earth, we should pass it on in a better condition for future generations. The third issue concerns cultural revival. We must take pride in our glorious history, preserve our languages, literature, arts and culture, and pass on the wisdom of our ancestors to coming generations. This Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan will be truly successful only when its message reaches the youth and inspires them. In a world of rapid change, moral strength is necessary to remain competitive. It is my desire to see that Indias youth lead the world. They must innovate, guide ideas, and write a new chapter of progress with compassion. I want our Youth to carry forward Indias great cultural heritage and to show the world that modernity and spirituality can go hand in hand, the Lieutenant Governor said. Padma Shri Brij Lal Bhat; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture Department; Dr. Vinod Kumar, DIG North Kashmir Range; Syed Fakhrudin Hamid, Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla; Gurinderpal Singh, SSP Baramulla; Shivanand Rohit Raina, President, Maharishi Kashyap Colony, Baramulla; senior officials, civil society members, religious leaders, prominent citizens and people in large number were present.
Mirwaiz Expresses Grief Over Rain Havoc, Urges Swift Rescue and Relief Measures
SRINAGAR: Kashmirs chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by incessant rains and flash floods in the Rajouri, Poonch and Kishtwar districts of Jammu and Kashmir. In a statement shared on social media, Mirwaiz said he was deeply saddened by the tragic loss []
BJP Postpones Srinagar Secretariat Gherao March Amid Flood Crisis in Rajouri, Poonch
Srinagar, July 19: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has postponed its proposed Secretariat Gherao March, which was scheduled to be held at Lal Chowk in Srinagar on July 20, in view of the worsening flood situation in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch. Confirming the development, BJP State Co-Media Incharge Advocate Sajid Yousuf Shah said the decision was taken considering the humanitarian emergency triggered by incessant rainfall and flash floods in the twin districts over the past two days. In light of the prevailing flood situation in Rajouri and Poonch, the party has decided to defer the Secretariat Gherao March. A fresh date for the programme will be announced shortly, Shah said. The protest march had been planned to press the party's demands on various issues concerning the Union Territory. The BJP said the revised schedule for the programme would be communicated separately. The postponement comes as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across parts of Jammu division. According to official reports, at least 11 people have lost their lives in rain-related incidents in Rajouri and Poonch, while several others remain missing. Rescue and relief operations are underway, with personnel from the Army and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with local administration teams, engaged in search and rehabilitation efforts in the affected areas. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall across the region until July 23 and has issued weather alerts for several districts of Jammu division, urging residents to remain vigilant.This version follows standard news style by separating verified facts from attribution, maintaining a neutral tone, and presenting the information in a clear, inverted-pyramid structure.
Politics can wait, humanity should come first: LoP Sunil Sharma
Srinagar: Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma on Sunday said politics can wait and humanity should come first as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) decided to postpone its proposed July 20 protest in Jammu and Kashmir in view of the flash floods that caused heavy loss of life and property in Poonch and Rajouri districts. []
LG Sinha Calls for Harmony, Cultural Revival at Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan
LG Sinha Calls for Harmony, Cultural Revival at Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan
BJP Postpones Secretariat Gherao March in Srinagar Amid Flood Crisis In Rajouri, Poonch
SRINAGAR: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Jammu Kashmir has postponed its proposed Secretariat Gherao March at Lal Chowk, Srinagar, which was scheduled to be held on July 20, 2026, in view of the devastating flood situation in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch. According to the party, the decision was taken as heavy rains, []
14 Rescued As Flash Floods Leave People Stranded in Jammu, Rajouri
Joint rescue teams, including the Army, police and SDRF, evacuated 14 people trapped in swollen rivers and flood-hit areas of Jammu and Rajouri after heavy rain triggered a sharp rise in water levels
PDP Leader Syed Jamat Ali Shaheen Expresses Grief, Calls for Immediate Aid in Rajouri-Poonch
Srinagar, July 19: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Syed Jamat Ali Shaheen has expressed profound grief and sorrow over the loss of lives and widespread damage caused by heavy rainfall and flash floods in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch. In a statement issued on Sunday, the Ganderbal-based PDP leader conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the tragedy and expressed solidarity with all those affected. Tragic loss of lives has saddened me today. There are reports of extensive damage to property also caused by the heavy rainfall and flash floods in the districts of Rajouri and Poonch. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families in this hour of grief. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy, Shaheen said. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured and wished strength and resilience for the affected communities as they cope with the aftermath of the disaster. Shaheen urged the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, along with the civil and police administration of Rajouri and Poonch, to ensure that all possible relief and assistance reach the affected families without delay. The PDP leader emphasized the need for a prompt and coordinated response to provide relief, rehabilitation, and support to those who have suffered losses due to the natural calamity.
Lieutenant Governor Joins Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan in Baramulla
SRINAGAR, JULY 19: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha today attended the Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan in Baramulla. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said in the Sanatan tradition, a yajna represents selfless sacrifice and shared responsibility aimed at fostering global peace. This Sammelan marks a spiritual rebirth for the region. It sends a powerful message [] The post Lieutenant Governor Joins Mahayajna Dharma Sammelan in Baramulla appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Baramulla Administration Issues Flood Alert, Advises People to Avoid Vulnerable Areas
Residents living near rivers, streams and flood-prone locations urged to remain alert; travellers asked to verify road conditions before venturing into Tangmarg, Gulmarg, Uri and Boniyar
Baglihar to remain shut for 45 days, Salal already under maintenance; KPDCL says 1,000 MW deficit may force power curtailments
MP Mian Altaf Expresses Grief Over Poonch-Rajouri Tragedy, Seeks Swift Relief and Rescue
SRINAGAR: Member of Parliament from the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency, Mian Altaf Ahmad, on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by incessant rainfall, flash floods and landslides in the border districts of Poonch and Rajouri, urging the government to expedite rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts. In a statement, the senior []
Mirwaiz Offers Prayers for Flood Victims, Urges Immediate Relief Efforts
Srinagar, July 19: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has expressed profound sorrow over the loss of lives and widespread damage to property caused by incessant rains and flash floods in the districts of Rajouri, Poonch, and Kishtwar. In a post on X, said that deeply saddened by the devastation and extended his condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. He also conveyed his prayers for all those affected by the natural calamity. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by the calamity, Mirwaiz wrote. He urged the administration and rescue agencies to make every possible effort to reach people stranded in the affected areas, ensure their safety, and provide immediate relief, shelter, and other essential assistance. Mirwaiz also prayed for the protection of those impacted by the disaster, saying, May Allah protect everyone and grant patience and strength to the families who have lost their loved ones. The appeal comes as several parts of Rajouri, Poonch, and Kishtwar have been affected by heavy rainfall and flash floods, resulting in casualties, damage to infrastructure, and disruption of normal life. Rescue and relief operations are underway in the affected areas.
10 killed, several missing as flash floods, landslides batter Poonch
Jammu, July 19 : At least 10 people, including women and children, were killed after flash floods and landslides triggered by torrential overnight rains wreaked havoc in the border districts of Poonch and Rajouri on Sunday, officials said. The worst-hit was the Lower Murrah area of Surankote in Poonch district, where floodwaters and landslide debris swept through residential areas, burying houses and trapping families. Officials told news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that nine deaths were reported from Surankote, including six members of a single family, while one person was killed in Haveli tehsil. They said several people were feared trapped under debris, raising concerns that the death toll could rise as rescue operations progressed. Rescue teams comprising the police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), civil administration and local volunteers were engaged in a massive search and rescue operation despite intermittent rainfall and difficult terrain. Heavy earth-moving machinery has also been deployed to clear debris and restore access to affected villages. The heavy rainfall caused extensive damage to roads, bridges, residential houses, vehicles and other public infrastructure across Poonch and neighbouring Rajouri district. In Haveli tehsil, at least seven houses were damaged, while property losses were also reported from Mandi and other areas. Several roads remained blocked due to landslides, disrupting connectivity. The district administration pressed relief teams into service and shifted affected families to safer locations. Residents living near rivers, streams and landslide-prone slopes have been advised to remain indoors, avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from fast-flowing water bodies until weather conditions improve, officials said. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to review the flood situation in the affected districts. Shah assured them of all possible assistance from the Centre for rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts and said every possible step would be taken to ensure the safety and security of the affected people, officials said. Rescue and relief operations continued across the affected areas as intermittent rain persisted, with authorities keeping a close watch on vulnerable locations amid forecasts of more rainfall. Meanwhile, the Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast widespread rainfall across J&K over the next five days, warning of heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds, particularly in the Jammu division, with an increased risk of flash floods, landslides, mudslides, shooting stones and waterlogging in vulnerable areas till July 23(KNO)
J-K: Control Room established in Katra for disaster management in monsoon conditions
Katra , July 19 : In view of the prevailing monsoon conditions and the risk of emergencies arising from heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides, waterlogging and road blockages, the Sub-Divisional Administration Katra has constituted a Control Room for Monsoon Disaster Management to ensure prompt response and effective coordination. As per an order issued by Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Katra, Piyush Dhotra (JKAS), the Control Room will function under the overall supervision of Tehsildar Katra, Jatinder Singh, in close coordination with police, PWD, health, power, Jal Shakti, municipal authorities and other concerned departments. The Control Room will maintain a round-the-clock watch over the monsoon situation, receive and record reports regarding heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides, damage to property and disruption of roads, electricity and drinking water supply. It will also ensure timely communication of situation reports to higher authorities for necessary action. Residents and other stakeholders can contact the Katra Monsoon Control Room at 01991-295681 in case of any rain-related emergency or for reporting incidents requiring immediate attention. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has also been temporarily suspended due to prevailing adverse weather conditions in Katra and the Trikuta Hills. The pilgrimage was temporarily halted as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of devotees amid inclement weather. Pilgrims have been advised to remain updated through official channels regarding the resumption of the Yatra. The pilgrimage is expected to resume once weather conditions improve and the route is considered safe for movement. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The region is also forecast to witness widespread rainfall, thunderstorms and the possibility of heavy showers over the coming days. Several devotees were seen worshipping from afar as there is uncertainity about the weather and the Yatra resuming. Rekha, one of the devotees who had travelled from Jamnagar district, Gujarat, said, I came with a lot of hope; now my heart aches that I can't go. It rained, you see, it rained all night, that's why they aren't letting us go. They are saying it might take five days. They say after five days, if the weather is fine, they will allow us; otherwise, they say the duration might increase further. The weather has also impacted the ongoing Amarnath Yatra as the Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday officially suspended it on both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes to ensure the safety of pilgrims after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning of heavy rainfall across the Union Territory. The decision was taken as a precautionary measure in view of the inclement weather forecast predicted to ensure the safety of thousands of devotees travelling through the region. The 57-day Amarnath Yatra began on July 3 and will conclude on August 28 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. (ANI)
One Killed, Five Injured In Car Crash On Srinagar-Jammu Highway
One Killed, Five Injured In Car Crash On Srinagar-Jammu Highway
by Asrar Syeed Near Dachigam, Harwan Garden blends ancient Buddhist ruins, Mughal-era history, and centuries-old Chinars into a tranquil public park. Harwan Garden is located almost 15 kilometres from the heart of Kashmirs capital, Srinagar city, in the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range, close to Dachigam National Park. Inside the park, the serene mountain []
Does Donald Trump Have Any Winning Option Left Against Iran?
by Greg Barton Irans leverage over the Strait of Hormuz has exposed the limits of US military power, raising fears of wider escalation, economic disruption and prolonged regional instability. In a moment of brazen hubris in the Oval Office last year, US President Donald Trumprailed at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He accused Zelensky of not []
Iran no longer bound by 14-point MoU after US military action, says FM spokesperson
Tehran [Iran], July 19: Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said that Tehran no longer considers itself committed to implementing the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the US, signed last month, after the United States violated its obligations under the agreement by escalating its military strike on the Islamic Republic. According to a statement carried by Iranian state media, the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), Baghaei said that the MoU was based on reciprocal commitments and that Washington's actions had altered Iran's position on the agreement. The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding was based on a commitment for a commitment, and with the US's action to violate its commitments, Iran no longer considers itself committed to implementing it, Baghaei said. The Iranian spokesperson further stated that Tehran's retaliatory military actions were limited to self-defence and targeted only US military assets. We have only defended ourselves and have not attacked any targets other than US military bases and military equipment, he said. Baghaei further stated that the US and Israel's strikes targeting civilian areas during their operations amounted to war crimes. The US and the Zionist regime have mainly targeted civilian centres and ordinary people in their attacks, which is a clear example of a war crime, he added. His remarks come as tensions between Iran and the United States escalated after the collapse of the 14-point MoU, signed last month, aimed at ending the hostilities between the two sides and opening the pathway for further negotiations, particularly on Iran's nuclear programme. Its collapse renewed the conflict in West Asia, with the US striking Iranian military and civilian assets, and the Islamic Republic also targeting American bases across the Gulf in retaliatory strikes. Meanwhile, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that two US service members were killed and another remains missing in Jordan following Iranian retaliatory strikes on the US military assetsat the Al-Azraq Air Base. (ANI)
LG reviews flood situation in Rajouri, Poonch; Orders immediate relief
Srinagar, July 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday reviewed the situation in Rajouri and Poonch districts following incessant rain and flash floods, directing officials to ensure immediate relief and assistance to affected families. In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said he spoke to senior officials and assessed the situation in the affected areas. He said rescue teams comprising the civil administration, police, Army, SDRF and local volunteers were actively engaged in rescue and relief operations in Rajouri. Sinha said the affected families had already been shifted to safer places and that all departments had been placed on high alert, with priority being given to immediate relief measures and restoration work. He also appealed to the people to remain calm and follow official advisories. Expressing grief over the loss of lives in Rajouri and in the Haveli and Surankote areas of Poonch district, the Lieutenant Governor conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families. He said the heavy rainfall had also caused damage to several houses in Rajouri and Poonch and directed the officials to provide immediate assistance to all affected families in both districts. Sinha added that emergency response teams had been instructed to remain fully prepared to deal with any emerging situation.
Kupwara Administration Issues Weather Advisory, Urges People to Avoid Vulnerable Areas Till July 23
Residents of border and hilly areas asked to stay away from landslide- and flash flood-prone zones; tourists advised to verify road conditions before travelling
Kupwara Administration Issues Weather Advisory For July 19 To 23
SRINAGAR: The Kupwara district administration has issued a weather advisory in view of the inclement weather forecast by the Meteorological Centre Srinagar for the period from July 19 to July 23, 2026. According to the advisory, residents of Keran, Karnah, Machil, Budnamal, Jumugund, Nowgam and Kumkadi, as well as those living near nallahs, rivers and []
Casualties, Injuries Reported As Flash Floods, House Collapses Hit Poonch, Rajouri
Poonch/Rajouri):Casualties and injuries have been reported in Poonch and Rajouri districts on Sunday after heavy rainfall triggered house collapses and flash floods. In Poonch, a kaccha house collapsed in Noonabandi area of Haveli Tehsil. A woman died in the incident. Officials said that three other members of the same family were injured and shifted to []
CM Omar to return to Jammu to monitor flood situation; Farooq to lead statehood protest in Delhi
Jammu, July 19 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday said he would return to Jammu from Delhi to personally monitor the flood situation triggered by heavy rains in parts of the Jammu division, while the National Conference's planned protest for restoration of statehood in the national capital would go ahead under the leadership of party president Farooq Abdullah. In a post on X, the chief minister said the decision to return was prompted by the weather warning issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the seriousness of the situation unfolding across parts of the Jammu region. In light of the weather warning put out by the Meteorological Department and the seriousness of the situation unfolding across parts of Jammu division, I will leave Delhi to fly to Jammu this afternoon to personally monitor the situation on the ground, Abdullah said. He said the National Conference's protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, would proceed as scheduled. The statehood protest will go ahead under the leadership of JKNC President Dr Farooq Abdullah as planned, the chief minister added. The announcement came as heavy overnight rainfall triggered flash floods in Rajouri district and affected several parts of the Jammu region, prompting rescue and relief operations and weather alerts from the authorities.(KNS)
Omar to Fly to Jammu as Weather Worsens; Dr Farooq to Lead NCs Delhi Statehood Protest
Chief Minister to fly to Jammu this afternoon to personally monitor situation; Farooq Abdullah to lead statehood protest
Two US service members killed, one missing in Jordan after Iranian strikes, says CENTCOM
Washington DC [US], July 19 : US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Saturday (local time) said that two US service members were killed and another remains missing in Jordan following Iranian strikes on the US military assets at the Al-Azraq Air Base. In a statement on X, CENTCOM stated that the incident occurred while American and partner forces were defending against the Iranian allistic missiles and drones assault. According to CENTCOM, the service members were killed on July 17 while performing their duties during the coordinated defence against the Iranian strikes. On July 17, two U.S. service members were killed in Jordan while performing their duties, during the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and partner forces' defense against attacks launched by Iran using ballistic missiles and drones. In addition, one service member remains among the missing, the statement said. CENTCOM further said that four US service members who sustained injuries during the attacks were medically evacuated to hospitals in Jordan. All four have since been discharged, while other personnel who received treatment for minor injuries have returned to duty. Four U.S. service members were medically evacuated to Jordanian hospitals, and they later left the hospitals. Other service members who had undergone medical evaluation following minor injuries have returned to duty, the statement added. The command said it would not release the identities of the deceased personnel until at least 24 hours after their next of kin have been notified, citing respect for the families' privacy. Out of respect for the families' privacy, U.S. Central Command will not disclose any additional information, including the identities of the service members who were killed, until 24 hours after their next of kin have been notified, CENTCOM said. Following the CENTCOM announcement, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth acknowledged the death of the service members, stating, Godspeed, heroes. Their sacrifice only stiffens our resolve, in a post on X. On Friday, the Iranian Army said it had targeted fuel storage facilities at Jordan's Al-Azraq Air Base as part of the 14th phase of Operation Lightning, launching drone strikes against multiple US military installations in Jordan and Kuwait. According to the statement by the Iranian Army's Public Relations, the country's armed forces also targeted an ammunition depot at Al-Udairi Camp, headquarters buildings and ammunition depots at Ali Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait, as well as several communication bridges. Iran's strikes come as a retaliatory attack after US forces launched another round of military strikes against Iran, marking the seventh consecutive night of operations. (ANI)
Heavy Rain Triggers Flash Floods in Rajouri; CM Omar Assures Relief
Rajouri, July 19: Flash floods triggered by incessant overnight rainfall caused widespread damage across Rajouri town on Sunday, inundating residential and commercial areas,damaging public infrastructure and forcing the evacuation of residents from vulnerable locations, officials said. The heavy rain led to a sharp rise in the water level of rivers and streams across the district, with the Darhali River, which flows through Rajouri town, crossing the danger mark in the early hours of the day. Floodwaters entered several localities, disrupting normal life and damaging roads, public utilities and private property. Officials said the newly established bus stand at Bela was among the worst-hit areas. Several parked vehicles were washed away by strong currents, while parts of the bus stand complex and adjoining municipal infrastructure suffered significant damage. Residential houses and shops in different parts of the town also reported losses. As a precautionary measure, the district administration shifted dozens of families from low-lying areas to safer locations. Rescue and relief teams were deployed to affected areas to assist residents, monitor the situation and carry out emergency operations. Authorities have issued a high alert across the district as weather conditions remain unpredictable. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he had been closely monitoring the situation since Sunday morning and was in constant touch with local legislators and the district administration. In a post on X, he said saving lives remained the administration's top priority and assured all possible government assistance to families affected by the flash floods as damage assessment continues.
Heavy Rain Halts Shiv Khori Pilgrimage
Pilgrims advised to defer travel as Shrine Board monitors weather conditions following IMD's heavy rain forecast
DYSS launches 9 Sports Academies of Excellence at Khel Gaon under Elite Coaching Framework
Jammu, Jul 18: In a landmark move destined to redefine the sporting landscape of J&K, the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports (DYSS) has officially operationalized nine premier 'Academies of Excellence' at the state-of-the-art Sports arena, Khel Gaon, in Nagrota here. The transformative initiative has been set into motion through a comprehensive deployment order issued by the Director General of Youth Services and Sports, J&K, Anuradha Gupta. This marks the spectacular first phase of a visionary, UT-wide blueprint by the Directorate, which has established specialized sports clusters across J&K to provide structured, elite-level training to the UTs promising youth. Highlighting the deep-rooted vision behind these specialized hubs, DG YSS stated that the establishment of these Academies of Excellence is a clear example of the department's commitment to nurturing raw talent and building a world-class sporting ecosystem in J&K. She emphasized that by setting up specialized sports clusters across the UT, the Directorate aims to bridge the gap between passion and professional training, adding that these academies will serve as launching pads for the youth to excel at national and international arenas. To ensure the highest standard of mentorship, the Directorate has handpicked accomplished Physical Educators from the DYSS with proven, discipline-specific expertise to lead the initial nine disciplines. Under this order, Atul Pangotra has been deployed for Taekwondo from the DYSS Office Jammu, Harvinder Singh for Athletics from GHS Bhagwati Nagar, Jagjit Singh for Hockey from GMS Akalpur, Rohit Kumar Gupta for Football from LHS Bain Bajalta, Sanjeet Kumar for Kabaddi from MS Rehari, Naresh Kumar for Volleyball who is already stationed at Khel Gaon Nagrota, Sanjay Khajuria for Badminton from GMS Railway Colony, Dheeraj Kumar for Wrestling from GMS Kachi Chawni, and Ujjwal Gupta for Fencing from GMS Bhadrore. In a major boon for the youth, DG YSS announced that elite-level training at these academies will be provided entirely free of cost, with the gates of these academies wide open to passionate, talented players hailing from all districts of the UT. While the talent hunt is universal, selected players coming from outside Jammu will temporarily need to manage their own boarding and lodging. The Director General maintained that admission will be strictly merit-based, relying on rigorous physical fitness tests and sport-specific selection criteria, while the training schedules will be dynamically tailored and approved by the Directorate based on the expert recommendations of the respective coaches. Moving away from traditional recreation, the academies will incorporate modern, scientific training methodologies where coaches are mandated to design advanced, long term training regimes incorporating micro, meso, and macro planning cycles. To bring transparency and modern technology into the mix, all enrolled athletes will be registered on the official DYSS portal, facilitating digital performance tracking to monitor every athlete's growth graph. The Directorate has also instituted an absolute accountability mechanism, creating a high-powered monitoring committee headed by the Director General herself with the Joint Director Jammu, DYSSO Jammu, and Deputy Director Activities as members to conduct weekly reviews of the academies. Under this strict framework, both the infrastructure upkeep and the performance of the coaches will be continuously evaluated, and coaches failing to deliver the expected developmental results will be replaced swiftly. Injecting global experience into the grassroots level, the Director General revealed that the Football Academy will function under the direct mentorship of Arun Malhotra, the legendary former Indian International Football Player and former Technical Committee Member of the All India Football Federation, who has generously agreed to steer the academy as its Technical Advisor on a completely honorary basis. DG YSS added that efforts shall be made by the Directorate to actively involve local athletes of national and international repute across all nine disciplines to mentor the trainees. The Directorate will separately issue the detailed schedule for the upcoming selection trials in the coming days, and all newly deployed coaches and officials have been strictly directed to report for duty at the Sports Complex, Khel Gaon Nagrota, Jammu, on July 20 without fail to kickstart operations.
Omar Reviews Rajouri Flood Situation, Assures All Possible Relief to Affected Families
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday said he has been closely monitoring the situation in Rajouri district following heavy overnight rainfall that triggered flash floods in Rajouri town and adjoining areas, disrupting normal life and forcing evacuations from several low-lying localities. In a post on X the Chief Minister said he had been monitoring []
