Jammu-Srinagar National Highway Closed as Restoration Work Continues at Vulnerable Stretches
SRINAGAR: Vehicular movement on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained completely suspended on Friday after the district administrations of Udhampur and Ramban ordered a temporary closure to facilitate restoration and stabilisation works at vulnerable locations. According to the authorities, the closure was imposed to enable intensive road restoration, debris clearance and slope stabilisation works at []
3 Kashmir train services suspended till Aug 14
Srinagar, July 30: Northern Railway has extended the cancellation of three passenger train services operating on the BanihalBudgamBaramulla section until August 14, 2026, to facilitate scheduled track maintenance aimed at enhancing the safety and reliability of rail operations. According to a notice issued by the Office of the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu, the affected services will remain suspended from July 31 to August 14 (JCO) to enable pre-BCM high-temperature destressing of Long Welded Rails (LWR) on the BanihalBaramulla section. The suspended services include Train No. 74615 (BanihalBaramulla), Train No. 74632 (BaramullaBudgam), and Train No. 74628 (BudgamBanihal). With the extension of the cancellation, the 10:50 a.m. BanihalBaramulla passenger service, which is widely used by daily commuters, students, and office-goers travelling between Banihal and various stations across the Kashmir Valley, will continue to remain off the tracks during the maintenance period. Railway officials said the extension was necessary to complete the planned rail destressing and track maintenance works, which are crucial for ensuring the safe, smooth, and efficient operation of train services on the section. Passengers have been advised to make alternative travel arrangements and verify the latest train schedules before undertaking their journeys to avoid inconvenience.
IUST Hosts National Conference on Innovative Pedagogies to Advance DYoD Implementation
Awantipora, July 31: A Two-Day National Conference on Innovative Pedagogies for Future-Ready Higher Education begins at Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) on Thursday to strengthen the implementation of the Design your own Degree (DYoD) framework aligned with NEP 2020. The conference brings together educators, academic leaders, researchers and policymakers to deliberate on innovative pedagogical approaches aligned with NEP 2020. The participants included Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman, J&K Higher Education Council, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor, IUST, Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice-Chancellor, University of Kashmir, Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, SMVDU, Prof. Jawaid Iqbal, Vice-Chancellor, BGSBU, Prof. Mohammad Mobin, Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. Shobha Bagai, University of Delhi, Dean Academic Affairs IUST Prof Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Registrar IUST Prof Shamim Ahmad Shah and principals of various colleges from J&K. During the inaugural ceremony, Prof. Dinesh Singh was the Chief Guest. While delivering the keynote address, he acknowledged the progressive nature of J&K's educational landscape and said, I believe India can discover a new path for higher education through Jammu and Kashmir. The spirit of innovation and academic experimentation I have witnessed here is rarely seen elsewhere in the country. NEP 2020 is founded on the belief that learning is a lifelong journey. Every day is a day of learning, and the policy reflects a deeply considered vision shaped by years of educational experimentation and experience. I congratulate IUST for taking the lead in organising this conference. Such initiatives demonstrate the kind of academic leadership needed to carry the vision of NEP 2020 forward, he further added. Earlier, while delivering the welcome address, VC IUST Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo underlined the significance of this conference that brought together universities and colleges under one umbrella to discuss taking forward NEP 2020. The real challenge before us is how we build the capacity of our teachers and transform teaching in the spirit of NEP 2020. As we move into the second phase of its implementation, the colleges and universities of Jammu and Kashmir have the opportunity to demonstrate a model that can guide the rest of the country, Prof. Romshoo said. Reflecting on the significance of the conference, he remarked that the deliberations had written a new chapter in advancing innovative pedagogy and emphasised that while information is readily available everywhere, he real privilege is to design one's learning, underscoring the transformative vision of the DYoD initiative. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Inayet Rasool, Coordinator, Design Your Degree (DYoD) Programme. The first day of the conference witnessed two technical sessions. The first technical session deliberated on DYoD Implementation in J&K Institutions. The participants included vice chancellors of universities and heads of institutions, and the session was moderated by Prof. Dinesh Singh. The speakers highlighted that the Design Your Degree (DYoD) initiative is transforming higher education by shifting from traditional examination-based systems to experiential, interdisciplinary, and student-centred learning aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. They emphasised the integration of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Python, and Digital Humanities into academic programmes, while encouraging innovation, undergraduate research, and socially relevant problem-solving. The discussion also underscored the significant institutional and pedagogical reforms required to implement DYoD, including retraining faculty, reshaping curricula, and fostering a mindset change among both teachers and students. Stressing the importance of preserving academic leadership in the age of rapidly advancing technology, the speakers noted that educators must play a central role in guiding these transformations so that technological advancements strengthen, rather than dictate, the future of higher education. The 2nd technical session deliberated on the theme DYoD in J&K: Challenges, opportunities and the Way forward. The participants were DYoD Coordinators from universities and institutions in J&K and was moderated by Prof. Bagai. A documentary 'DYoD Heritage Journey,' was also screened during the event. The remaining two technical sessions, student project presentations and the valedictory session will be held on the second day of the conference.
Heavy rains trigger flash floods in SK Bala, traffic restored after police action
Bandipora: Heavy rains on Friday triggered flash flood-like conditions in the SK Bala and Doudwan areas of north Kashmirs Bandipora district, blocking the main road and several link roads, disrupting traffic and causing inconvenience to commuters. Officials said that incessant rainfall led to flash floods, washing debris, mud and uprooted trees onto roads in Doudwan []
1,605 Amarnath Pilgrims Leave Jammu for Baltal Despite NH-44 Traffic Suspension
SRINAGAR: A fresh batch of 1,605 pilgrims departed from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu early on Friday for the Baltal base camp to undertake the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra, despite the suspension of traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) for restoration works. According to the Joint Police Control Room, the 24th batch []
132 KV power supply restored in J-K's Poonch after 10 days following flood-triggered disruption
Poonch, July 31: The critical 132 KV electricity grid supply has been safely restored in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district after ten consecutive days of disruption caused by severe flash floods and continuous heavy rainfall. The power supply had been affected after heavy rains caused massive damage to the Power Development Department's (PDD) infrastructure. A major loss occurred between Rajouri and Thanna Mandi, where two or three towers were washed away; this disrupted the power supply for the entire Poonch district. Speaking to ANI, Altaf Ahmad Khan, Incharge Executive Engineer (XEN) of the Power Development Department, said the recent spell of heavy rainfall had caused widespread damage to the department's infrastructure. The recent rains, specifically those on the 19th and the subsequent ones, caused massive damage to the PDD's infrastructure alongside other assets. A major loss occurred between Rajouri and Thanna Mandi, where two or three towers were washed away; this disrupted the power supply for the entire Poonch district, Khan said. He said the department had earlier managed to restore power temporarily to ensure that emergency services continued to function despite the extensive damage to the transmission network. Khan said PDD personnel worked round the clock to repair the damaged infrastructure and resume electricity supply. However, he noted that the temporary arrangement could not meet the electricity demand of the entire district as the available supply was insufficient to handle the full load. He said the collapsed transmission towers have now been restored using an Emergency Restoration System (ERS), enabling the district to receive its full power allocation. However, there is good news: the towers that had collapsed have now been restored using an ERS, an Emergency Restoration System. Power has just been fully restored, meaning we will now receive the entire required load from this point forward and can handle the full load, Khan said. Meanwhile, heavy rainfall and a subsequent cloudburst on July 19 triggered massive landslides that severely damaged the Thannamandi-DKG-Bufliaz Road, a key Border Roads Organisation (BRO) project vital for connecting the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch with the Kashmir Valley. The downpour triggered flash floods that washed away several stretches of the newly constructed road, culverts, and heavy trees at multiple locations between Thannamandi and Bufliaz. The road remains closed for traffic even after 13 days, with vehicles being diverted through the BG (Bimber Gali) route. (ANI)
AANITS hails appointment of Prof. Anurag Misra as full-time Dir of NIT Srinagar
Srinagar, July 30: The REC/NIT Srinagar Alumni Association (AANITS) has welcomed the appointment of Prof. Anurag Misra as the Full-Time Director of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, describing it as a landmark moment in the institutes journey towards academic excellence and institutional growth. In a statement issued here, the Association extended its heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Misra and expressed confidence that his vast academic and administrative experience would usher NIT Srinagar into a new era of innovation, research, global collaboration and academic distinction. AANITS President Er. Malay Chatterjee said the alumni fraternity across the globe warmly welcomes Prof. Misras appointment and looks forward to working closely with the institute under his visionary leadership. The appointment of a full-time Director brings renewed direction and stability to our alma mater. We are confident that Prof. Misra will lead NIT Srinagar towards greater academic excellence, cutting-edge research, stronger industry partnerships and enhanced global visibility. The alumni community stands firmly committed to supporting every initiative aimed at the growth of the institution, he said. Vice President Er. Sayyed Parvez termed the appointment a positive development for the institute and hoped that the new leadership would further strengthen student welfare, infrastructure development and alumni engagement. A vibrant partnership between the institute and its alumni can significantly contribute to NIT Srinagars continued progress. We look forward to meaningful collaboration in advancing the institutes national and international standing, he added. General Secretary Er. Irfan Bashir Ashai said the alumni association is optimistic that Prof. Misras tenure will promote a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship and academic excellence while fostering stronger institutional connect with alumni spread across the world. Additional Secretary, Publicity & Media Affairs, Er. Farhan Manzoor Shah, said the appointment has generated a renewed sense of optimism among the alumni fraternity. The alumni of NIT Srinagar see this appointment as the beginning of a new chapter for our institution. We are confident that under Prof. Anurag Misras dynamic leadership, NIT Srinagar will scale new heights in academics, research, innovation and global outreach. AANITS remains committed to working shoulder to shoulder with the institute in achieving its long-term vision and aspirations, he said. The Association reiterated its unwavering commitment to supporting the institutes initiatives through active alumni participation, mentorship, industry collaboration and institutional development, while wishing Prof. Misra a successful and impactful tenure as Director of NIT Srinagar.
SKUAST-K flags off first batch of BTech AI students to IIT Mandi
Srinagar, Jul 30: Vice Chancellor, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai on Thursday flagged off the first batch of students of BTech Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture Programme proceeding to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi for their third year (Semester V and VI) studies under the collaborative academic arrangement between the two institutions. The BTech Artificial Intelligence programme was conceived through a strategic collaboration between SKUAST-K and IIT Mandi with the objective of creating a new generation of professionals equipped with expertise in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, Data Science, IoT, Digital Agriculture, Climate Intelligence, and other emerging technologies. The outgoing students have successfully completed their first two years at SKUAST-K, where they underwent rigorous training in foundational engineering sciences, computer programming, mathematics, artificial intelligence fundamentals, deep learning, data science, IoT systems, and agricultural sciences. During their one-year stay at IIT Mandi, the students will be exposed to advanced courses in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Networks, Programming Paradigms, Robotics and Automation, Vision and Learning-Based Control Systems, Design Practicum, Drones and Automation Technologies, along with specialized electives offered by IIT Mandi. The collaboration further envisages joint mentorship of students by faculty members from SKUAST-K and IIT Mandi, industry-linked capstone projects, internships, innovation-driven research, and exposure to national and international technology ecosystems. Through this model, students will have opportunities to work on real-world challenges related to agriculture, climate resilience, environmental sustainability, robotics, precision farming, and digital transformation. Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor congratulated the students on becoming the first cohort of the program and described the occasion as a historic milestone in the evolution of agricultural education in the country. He emphasized that the future of agriculture lies at the intersection of technology, data, automation, and artificial intelligence and urged the students to take full advantage of the opportunities available at IIT Mandi. Prof. Rohitashw Kumar, Associate Dean, College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology, highlighted the unique features of the programme and the collaborative efforts undertaken by SKUAST-K and IIT Mandi in designing a future-ready curriculum aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP-2020), IndiaAI Mission, Digital Agriculture Mission, and Viksit Bharat 2047. The event concluded with the formal flag-off of the student contingent proceeding to IIT Mandi, marking the beginning of an important academic phase for the pioneering batch. The programme was attended by Director Education, Prof. Mohammad Altaf Bhat; Registrar, Prof. Azmat Alam Khan; Associate Dean, College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology, Prof. Rohitashw Kumar; In-charge, Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (CAIML), Dr. Showkat Rasool; faculty members, staff, students, and parents.
Labour Dept organises awareness programme on Labour Codes in Srinagar
Srinagar, Jul 30: As part of its continued efforts to strengthen labour governance and promote awareness of recent labour law reforms, the Labour Department, Jammu & Kashmir, organised a Stakeholder Awareness Programme on the Labour Codes at Hotel Shahenshah, Boulevard Road, Srinagar. The programme was attended by representatives of various trade unions from across Kashmir and served as a platform for constructive dialogue on labour rights, social protection, and regulatory reforms. The programme commenced with the registration of participants, followed by the inaugural session. Delivering the introductory address, S. Charandeep Singh, Labour Commissioner, J&K, highlighted the significance of the Labour Codes in creating a modern, transparent, and worker-centric labour administration. He emphasised that sustained awareness among trade unions and other stakeholders is essential for ensuring smooth implementation of the new labour law framework and for safeguarding the rights and welfare of workers. The technical sessions were conducted by Peer Zameer Ahmad, Assistant Labour Commissioner, Anantnag; Zamir Ali Ganie, Assistant Labour Commissioner, Budgam; and Waheed Ahmed Under Secretary to Government, Labour & Employment Department. The resource persons provided comprehensive presentations on the key provisions of the Labour Codes, including workers rights, employer obligations, registration mechanisms, compliance requirements, grievance redressal, and the evolving framework of labour welfare and social security. The programme was graced by Pawan Kumar Parihar, Special Secretary to Government, Labour & Employment Department; Umesh Sharma, Additional Secretary to Government, Labour & Employment Department; Masarat Hashim, Deputy Labour Commissioner (Central); and Najwan Nazki, Deputy Labour Commissioner, Kashmir. The dignitaries appreciated the initiative and emphasised the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and constructive social dialogue for ensuring effective implementation of the Labour Codes. An interactive question-and-answer session followed, during which representatives of various trade unions actively participated by raising practical issues and seeking clarifications on different aspects of the Labour Codes. The resource persons responded to the queries in detail, making the session highly engaging and informative. In his concluding remarks, Charandeep Singh, Labour Commissioner, J&K, expressed satisfaction over the active participation and valuable feedback received from the trade union representatives. He stated that the Department remains committed to promoting awareness, strengthening institutional capacity, and fostering collaborative partnerships with all stakeholders to facilitate effective implementation of the Labour Codes. The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Adnan Khawaja, Assistant Labour Commissioner, Srinagar, who expressed sincere gratitude to the distinguished dignitaries, resource persons, representatives of trade unions, and all participants for their active participation and valuable contributions towards the success of the programme.
KU hosts national seminar on Yoga
Srinagar, Jul 30: The Centre of Central Asian Studies (CCAS), University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Philosophical Research (ICPR), organised a one-day national seminar on the theme The Social Life of Yoga: From Tradition to Contemporary Practice at the Universitys Main Campus. The seminar sought to examine Yoga from social, cultural and philosophical perspectives, exploring its evolution from a traditional practice to its contemporary relevance in promoting health, well-being and community engagement. It also provided an interdisciplinary platform for scholars to deliberate on Yoga's significance in modern society. In her message, Vice-Chancellor, University of Kashmir, Prof. Nilofer Khan, described Yoga as an integral part of India's intellectual and cultural heritage and underscored the role of universities in fostering informed academic engagement with its philosophical, social and contemporary dimensions. Addressing the inaugural session, Dean Academic Affairs, KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, emphasised the importance of engaging with India's knowledge traditions through academic inquiry. Dean Students' Welfare, KU, Prof. Seema Singh, highlighted Yoga's contribution to physical and mental well-being while also fostering discipline, self-awareness and social responsibility. She stressed the need to create greater awareness among students about its wider educational and societal significance. Earlier, Director, CCAS, KU and Convenor of the seminar, Prof. Wahid Nasaru, welcomed the participants and highlighted the significance of organising the seminar. He said the programme was aimed at promoting scholarly dialogue on Yoga's philosophical foundations and its evolving role in contemporary social and cultural contexts. Seminar Coordinator and faculty member at CCAS, Dr. Parvana Bhat, presented an overview of the seminar and outlined its objectives. The seminar was attended by faculty members, researchers, scholars, students and participants from within and outside the University. The inaugural session was conducted by Dr. Mohmad Ilham Sheikh, faculty member at CCAS, while the vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Parvana Bhat.
Div Com Kashmir reviews alignment of flyovers, Srinagar Ring Road
Srinagar, Jul 30: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting of key stakeholder departments to deliberate on the alignment and implementation of major road infrastructure projects, including the ParimporaDalgate Flyover, Panthachowk Flyover, and the Srinagar Ring Road stretch from Panthachowk to Pandach. The meeting was attended by the Chief Conservator Forests, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Vice Chairman Srinagar Development Authority, Director Airport Authority, Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Srinagar, Chief Engineers of KPDCL and Irrigation & Flood Control, along with senior officers from the Roads & Buildings Department, RTO, UEED, LCMA, Air Force, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), BSF, and other concerned departments. A threadbare deliberation was conducted on the proposed ParimporaDalgate Flyover, with discussions focusing on its alignment, project cost, anticipated impact on traffic flow, and implications for existing city utilities. It was decided to constitute a committee comprising officers from the stakeholder departments to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the project's impact and submit recommendations. The meeting also discussed construction of the two parts of the PanthachowkPandrethan Flyover and decided to move ahead with the execution of the project. About the PanthachowkPandach section of the Srinagar Ring Road, the meeting decided to undertake a fresh study of the proposed alignments to minimise the impact on residential areas. NHAI officials were directed to carry out a comparative evaluation of the suggested alignments and submit recommendations for the most suitable option. Earlier, the meeting also discussed the proposed road from Ring Road Part-I via Sheikhpora to Airport Road and its potential impact on adjacent BSF security establishments. On the occasion, the Divisional Commissioner directed officers of the Air Force and BSF to hold joint consultations with the executing agency to explore a feasible solution that addresses the concerns of all stakeholder departments while ensuring timely implementation of the project.
FC1 Unveils Official Jersey for Historic Durand Cup Debut
Srinagar, Jul 30: FC1 on Thursday unveiled its official jersey for the clubs historic debut in the 135th Durand Cup, marking another significant milestone in the journey of the regions newest professional football club. The jersey was unveiled in the presence of Zadibal MLA Tanvir Sadiq, representatives of TCI Max Cements, FC1s leadership and players, and other invited guests. Inspired by the theme of water conservation, the jersey was created in collaboration with PUMA following several months of development. Its flowing wave patterns represent the rivers, lakes and other water bodies of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. The design also reinforces FC1s commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness. The event celebrated FC1s partnership with TCI Max Cements, which has joined the club as Principal Sponsor for its maiden Durand Cup campaign and the 2026 FC1 Academies season. The partnership will support football development in Jammu & Kashmir while promoting water conservation and sustainable living. Jehad Shora, CEO of FC1, said: FC1s debut in the 135th Durand Cup is a proud moment for everyone across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh who has believed in our journey. Thoughtfully designed with PUMA, our jersey reflects our regional identity, our connection to water and our shared responsibility to protect it. We are deeply grateful to TCI Max Cements for joining us as Principal Sponsor and supporting a vision that goes far beyond football. Its commitment to local talent, together with plans to work alongside FC1 to clean and restore water bodies and establish rainwater harvesting at its manufacturing facility, makes this a truly meaningful partnership. This campaign belongs to our players, supporters, partners, academies and communities. Together, we hope to represent our region with pride, develop better footballers and inspire environmentally conscious citizens. We want to demonstrate how sport, industry and sustainability can come together to create lasting change. Sharing his thoughts after unveiling the jersey alongside representatives of TCI Max Cements and FC1s leadership, Tanvir Sadiq said: This is a proud moment for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Together with the FC1 team and TCI Max Cements, I am delighted to unveil the jersey for FC1s historic debut in the 135th Durand Cup. This is more than just a jersey. It carries the dreams and aspirations of countless young footballers from Jammu & Kashmir who hope to compete on the biggest stage. My sincere appreciation goes to TCI Max Cements for believing in FC1s vision and supporting this journey. Heres to making J&K proud. Speaking on the occasion TCI MaX MD Waseem Trumboo said, Supporting local talent and helping local teams compete on national platforms is not just sponsorship it is an investment in aspirations. Every young footballer from Jammu and Kashmir who steps onto a national stage carries the dreams of an entire generation, and TCI Max Cements is proud to stand behind those dreams. What inspired us about FC1 was that it is much more than a football club. Its commitment to water conservation and sustainability aligns perfectly with our values. Through this partnership, we are reaffirming our commitment to rainwater harvesting, reducing our carbon footprint and working with FC1 to promote environmental responsibility, proving that sport and sustainability can create lasting change together, he added. FC1 has been built around a distinctive football philosophy. The clubs squad consists exclusively of players from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, giving regional talent an opportunity to compete on the national stage. Through its academy structure, FC1 is committed to providing a clear pathway from grassroots football to the professional game. Its aim is to ensure that talented young footballers from the region can pursue their ambitions and aspire to represent FC1 at the highest level. Beyond football, FC1 aims to become a platform for climate action and sustainability. Working alongside partners including TCI Max Cements, Bisleri and Neemans, the club plans to conduct environmental awareness programmes in schools, colleges and communities. These initiatives will encourage young people to become climate-conscious citizens and promote the responsible stewardship of natural resources. The Durand Cup holds a special place in Indian football. First held in 1888, it is one of the worlds oldest football tournaments and Asias oldest football competition. FC1s participation represents both an honour and a landmark moment for the club and the region. FC1 will use this national platform not only to showcase footballing talent from Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, but also to amplify its message of sustainability, environmental responsibility and community development. As the countdown to the tournament begins, FC1 enters its first Durand Cup campaign determined to represent the region with pride and inspire the next generation through football, purpose and opportunity.
Trump Announces Deal for Hamas to Disarm in Gaza, but Many Hurdles, Uncertainty Remain
The White House announcement on Thursday comes nine months after a US-brokered ceasefire was signed.
IUST to host intl conference on nature-based solutions for building climate resilience
Awantipora, Jul 30: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) will host a four-day international conference on 'Nature-based Solutions for Enhanced Climate Resilience and Livelihoods in the Himalayas' from August 3 to 6. The conference will be inaugurated on August 3 by Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, as the Chief Guest. Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Justice Sanjeev Kumar, will grace the inaugural session as the Guest of Honour. The international event will bring together policymakers, scientists, academicians, development practitioners, financial institutions, businesses and civil society representatives to examine how nature-based solutions can strengthen climate resilience, support livelihoods and contribute to sustainable economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir and the wider Himalayan region. The programme will focus on the climate-resilient Jhelum River Basin and the Himalayas, wetland restoration, climate-smart forestry, sustainable agriculture and horticulture, urban resilience, human well-being, digital technology-enabled green enterprises, and climate finance. Vice Chancellor, IUST, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, said Jammu and Kashmir's forests, rivers, wetlands and agricultural landscapes should be recognised as essential natural infrastructure that supports water security, disaster risk reduction, livelihoods and economic development. Conference Convener Prof. Javed Hussain Mir said the conference would take the discussion on nature-based solutions beyond environmental conservation and highlight their role in strengthening climate resilience, livelihoods and sustainable development. A major highlight of the conference will be the High-Level Policy Dialogue on 'Leveraging Nature-based Solutions for Fiscal Diversification and Resilience in Jammu and Kashmir', scheduled for August 6 at Amar Singh Club, Srinagar. Chaired by Additional Chief Secretary Shailendra Kumar (IAS), the policy dialogue will bring together senior policymakers, planners, academicians, businesses and civil society representatives to deliberate on priority policies and investments for enhancing Jammu and Kashmir's climate, fiscal and economic resilience.
Sgr Police attach properties of notorious drug peddlers
Srinagar, Jul 30: Continuing its sustained and relentless crackdown against drug trafficking under the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Srinagar Police has attached two immovable properties worth approximately Rs 1.05 crore belonging to notorious drug peddlers, reaffirming its commitment to dismantling the financial infrastructure of narcotics networks operating in the district. The first attached property comprises a residential house along with the land underneath, situated at Pamposh Colony, Palpora, Noorbagh, Srinagar, belonging to Aqib Mushtaq Kenu, son of Mushtaq Ahmad Kenu, resident of Pamposh Colony, Palpora, Noorbagh, Srinagar. The property, having an approximate market value of Rs 50 lakh, has been attached under Section 68-F of the NDPS Act, 1985, in connection with FIR No. 48/2022 registered at Police Station Safakadal under Sections 8/21/29 of the NDPS Act. The accused is presently on bail granted by the Hon'ble Court. The second attached property comprises a three-storeyed residential house along with two commercial shops and the land underneath, situated at Pathar Masjid, Zainakadal, Srinagar, belonging to Altaf Ahmad Najar alias T.K. Khan, son of late Ghulam Qadir Najar, resident of Pathar Masjid, Zainakadal, Srinagar. The property, with an approximate market value of Rs 55 lakh, has been attached under Section 68-F of Chapter VA of the NDPS Act, 1985, in connection with FIR No. 32/2021 registered under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Kral Khud. The accused is also under preventive detention under the PIT-NDPS Act, 1988, and is presently lodged in preventive detention. Both properties were identified during investigation as having been acquired through proceeds generated from illicit narcotics trafficking. The attachment proceedings were carried out after obtaining due approval from the Competent Authority (SAFEMA), New Delhi, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter VA of the NDPS Act, ensuring strict adherence to all legal and procedural safeguards. The attachment operations were executed by duly constituted Police teams, with the properties falling within the jurisdiction of Police Post Noorbagh and Police Station M.R. Gunj, respectively. These actions form part of Srinagar Police's sustained strategy to strike at the economic backbone of drug trafficking networks by depriving offenders of assets amassed through the proceeds of crime. Srinagar Police reiterated its unwavering commitment to making society drug-free under the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan and urged the public to continue supporting the police by sharing credible information regarding drug trafficking and other criminal activities.
J&K tops country in PMEGP applications
Srinagar, Jul 30: Jammu and Kashmir recorded the highest number of applications under the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) among all States and Union Territories during the last five financial years, with banks sanctioning more than 98,000 projects, according to data tabled in Parliament on Thursday. Replying to a starred question raised by MP Shreyas M. Patel in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Jitan Ram Manjhi said the time taken for sanctioning loans and releasing margin money (MM) subsidy under PMEGP depends on several factors, including completion of the application process with supporting documents, appraisal of project viability by financing banks, credit decisions, deposit of the beneficiary's own contribution, completion of the mandatory Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) training, and submission of subsidy claims by banks. According to the official data, banks in Jammu and Kashmir received 36,181 applications under PMEGP in 2021-22, 39,341 in 2022-23, 38,667 in 2023-24, 28,697 in 2024-25, and 10,411 in 2025-26. During the same period, 23,955, 26,777, 25,522, 17,365, and 5,363 applications, respectively, were sanctioned, taking the total number of approved projects to 98,982 over five years. The data further revealed that margin money subsidy was released for 21,648 projects in 2021-22, 12,023 in 2022-23, 15,065 in 2023-24, 9,863 in 2024-25, and 7,837 in 2025-26. Manjhi informed the House that, on average, implementing agencies take 58 days to process PMEGP applications, banks require 70 days to sanction loans, while the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) takes 84 days to release the margin money subsidy. The Government closely monitors the implementation of the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), including the time taken for sanctioning loans and disbursing financial assistance in the form of margin money subsidy across the country, the minister said. He said the government has undertaken several corrective measures to streamline the approval process, improve coordination with financing banks, expedite disposal of applications and ensure timely release of subsidies. These measures include regular monitoring of pending applications and subsidy claims through Quarterly Bankers' Meetings at the State and Zonal levels, as well as State Level Monitoring Committee (SLMC) and District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) meetings. To facilitate project preparation, over 1,000 model Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) covering different sectors have been uploaded on the PMEGP portal. The government has also waived educational qualification requirements for manufacturing projects costing up to Rs 10 lakh and service-sector projects up to Rs 5 lakh to reduce entry barriers for entrepreneurs. In addition, EDP training has been exempted for projects costing up to Rs 2 lakh to accelerate approvals. PMEGP Helpdesks have also been established at the State level to guide applicants, while awareness programmes and financial literacy camps are being organised across all States and Union Territories, including aspirational districts, underperforming regions and the North-Eastern states. The minister further said the PMEGP portal has been developed as an end-to-end digital platform and integrated with the Jan Samarth Portal, enabling seamless coordination with financing banks, SMS-based status updates for applicants, and facilitation of Udyam Registration, thereby improving transparency and efficiency in the scheme's implementation.
Haj-2027: All J&K applications cleared, 4,692 aspirants selected
Srinagar, Jul 30: The Jammu and Kashmir Haj Committee (JKHC) has issued the list of provisional selection covers for Haj 1448 (H) 2027, with figures revealing that a total of 4,692 applicants have been selected from the Union Territory. The total figure for Haj 2027 is 474 aspirants less than Haj 2026, asa total of5,166 aspirants were selected in the list of provisional selectioncovers inthe previous year. However, nearly 4,600 pilgrims will perform Haj 2026. According to Executive Officer of the J&K Haj Committee (JKHC), Dr Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, a total of 4,692 aspirants made it to the list of provisional selection covers for Haj 1448 (H) 2027 against the total quota of 8,000 for J&K. The deadline for online registration of applications was 20June and was later extended by four days to24 June 2026. Dr Qureshi said that all those who applied for Haj 2027 have been cleared. Healso stated thata total of14 private Haj companies from Jammu and Kashmir were allotted a combined quota of 665 seats. He added that the private Haj companies from Jammu and Kashmir have applied for the quota,and the quotawill be finalised within the next 15 days. The decline in the number of Haj applications in Jammu and Kashmirhas beenattributed to the rising cost of the pilgrimage. We have been witnessing a significant decline in the number of Haj applicants after 2023. The biggest reason is the rising cost of the pilgrimage, Dr Qureshi said, adding that pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir paid aroundRs 4.18 lakh for Haj 2026, making it difficult for many families to undertake the pilgrimage. The increase in Haj charges is due to several factors, including general inflation of nearly 7 per cent, the withdrawal of the Haj subsidy after 2018, and the appreciation of the Saudi Riyal against the Indian Rupee over the years, he explained. Dr Qureshi noted that the trend was not confined to Jammu and Kashmir alone, with several northern states also receiving applications below their allotted Haj quota, unlike many southern states where demand continues to remain strong. HCoI asks selected pilgrims to deposit Rs 1.52 lakh by Aug 10 The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) has directed all provisionally selected pilgrims for Haj-2027 (1448 Hijri) to deposit an advance amount of Rs 1,52,300 on or before August 10, 2026, failing which their Haj selection will be liable to cancellation. According to a circular issued by the Haj Committee of India under the Ministry of Minority Affairs following the Digital Random Selection (Qurrah) held on July 30, the amount comprises Rs 1,50,000 as advance Haj payment, Rs 2,000 as miscellaneous dues and Rs300 asnon-refundable processing fee. The committeesaid thepayment can be madethroughthe e-payment facility available on the Haj Committee of India's website or the Haj Suvidha App usinga credit card, debit card or net banking. Alternatively, the pilgrims may deposit the amount through a specified pay-in slip at any branch of the State Bank of India or Union Bank of India using the bank reference number available on the Haj Committee website against each cover number. The circular also instructed pilgrims to mention the unique bank reference number allotted to each cover in the deposit receipt. The Haj Committee said a separate circular regarding the selection process for Short Haj, submission of payment receipts, required documents and subsequent procedures will be issued separately. The committee reiterated that all provisionally selected pilgrims must strictly adhere to the August 10 deadline for depositing the advance Haj amount, warning that failure to do so would result in cancellation of their Haj seat.
Govt committed to transparent governance: CM
Ganderbal, Jul 30: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday undertook an extensive tour of Ganderbal district, holding a series of public engagements and chairing a review meeting to assess the progress of key developmental projects and obtain a first-hand account of issues affecting the district. Beginning his visit, the Chief Minister inspected the ongoing construction of the New Bus Adda Road, a vital infrastructure project expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in the area. Stressing the importance of timely completion, he directed the executing agencies to expedite the pace of work so that the road could be dedicated to the public at the earliest. During the inspection, the Chief Minister was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore, Chief Engineer, Roads & Buildings Department, and other senior engineers and officials associated with the execution of the project. Later, the Chief Minister chaired a review meeting to take stock of the progress of major development initiatives and deliberate on long-pending public issues in the district. The meeting focused on road connectivity, irrigation infrastructure, flood protection measures, sewerage facilities, solid waste management, land acquisition and other critical projects aimed at improving public service delivery. The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department Mandeep Kaur, Managing Director, J&K State Power Development Corporation, Deputy Commissioners of Srinagar, Ganderbal and Bandipora, Director Tourism Kashmir, Chief Engineer R&B, Chief Engineer Irrigation & Flood Control, Secretary J&K Sports Council, district officers and other senior officials. The outstation officers attended the meeting via video conferencing. At the outset, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal presented a detailed overview of the districts priority development issues requiring urgent government intervention. He highlighted the need to expedite land acquisition for several road widening projects and the approach road to the ParibalTakanwari bridge, to strengthen irrigation canals and power canal embankments, improving road connectivity to the Central University of Kashmir, development of tourism infrastructure and a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Manasbal. Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal also raised issues relating to the rehabilitation of shopkeepers displaced due to the widening of Ring Road Phase-II, construction of strategic link roads, establishment of an Integrated Solid Waste Management Plant, besides several other people-centric initiatives aimed at enhancing infrastructure and public services across the district. After reviewing the projects in detail, the Chief Minister directed all concerned departments to work in close coordination to remove bottlenecks, expedite pending approvals and ensure the time-bound completion of all ongoing and proposed developmental works. He emphasized that delays in execution should be minimizedand directed the departments to maintain close inter-departmental coordination so that the benefits of development reach the people without unnecessary delay. The Chief Minister reiterated that the government remains committed to balanced and inclusive development across Jammu and Kashmir, with a focus on strengthening infrastructure, improving civic amenities and addressing genuine public concerns through efficient governance and coordinated action. During his visit, the Chief Minister also met several public deputations and individuals at Dak Bungalow Ganderbal, and patiently heard their grievances and development-related demands. The deputations represented various areas of the district, including Safapora, Nuner, Manigam, Lar, Sherpathri, Shallabugh, Waskura, Wakura, Manasbal, Gutlibagh, Beehama, Rangil, Saloora, Wayil, Batwina and other villages. The deputations raised a wide range of issues concerning drinking water supply, irrigation facilities, desilting of canals, upgradation of educational and healthcare institutions, availability of adequate staff in health centres, development of playgrounds and new playfields, sports infrastructure, tourism-related facilities and other local development concerns. The Chief Minister gave a patient hearing to all the deputations and directed the concerned officers to examine the issues raised and take appropriate action in a time-bound manner. He assured the people that their genuine concerns would be addressed on priority and reiterated his governments commitment to responsive, transparent and people-centric governance.
We will not wait for Aug 5: CM Omar on J&K statehood
Ganderbal, Jul 30: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday asserted that his government has already intensified its efforts to restore Jammu and Kashmir's statehood and will not wait until August 5 to press the demand. The government has already taken the issue to New Delhi and passed a resolution in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly seeking the restoration of constitutional guarantees and statehood, Abdullah said, speaking to reporters here after inspecting the ongoing work on the New Bus Adda Road, which is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in the town. The Chief Minister said his government believes in sustained political engagement rather than symbolic protests. Responding to questions on the restoration of statehood, the Chief Minister said a single protest was never expected to resolve such a major political issue. If one protest was enough to solve the problem, then everything would have been resolved with the first protest itself. We knew that the issue required continuous efforts, which is why we took our demand to Delhi, he said. Abdullah criticised sections of the national media for overlooking what he described as an unfulfilled commitment made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. You keep asking us about statehood, but the media in the rest of the country forgets that a promise was made to Jammu and Kashmir which has not been fulfilled, he said. Rejecting suggestions that his government was waiting for August 5 to raise the issue, Omar Abdullah said the administration had already acted well in advance. We did not wait for August 5. We went to Delhi before that. Had we wanted to create political drama, we would have gone on August 5, but we did not. We have already passed a resolution in the Assembly on Jammu and Kashmir's special status and constitutional guarantees and forwarded it to the Central Government, he said. He added that while the government would continue its political programmes on August 5, its efforts for statehood restoration would remain a continuous process and not be confined to a single date. We will do what we have to do on August 5, but we do not wait for August 5. We continue doing our work, he said. During the interaction, the Chief Minister also expressed concern over reports of violence in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Without commenting on the political aspects, he said innocent civilians should not suffer and hoped peace would prevail. We are all worried about the situation there. The reports that are coming are disturbing. The way force is reportedly being used and innocent people are being targeted is unfortunate. We hope peace prevails there and innocent lives are not lost, Abdullah said. Earlier, the Chief Minister reviewed the pace of several ongoing infrastructure projects in Ganderbal, including the New Bus Adda Road, and directed officials to expedite works aimed at improving public infrastructure, reducing traffic congestion and addressing developmental concerns raised by local residents. He reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring timely completion of public projects and resolving issues affecting people across the district.
July monsoon wipes out rainfall deficit
Srinagar, Jul 30: Active monsoon conditions have dramatically transformed Jammu and Kashmirs rainfall scenario, with the Union Territory recording 23 per cent above-normal precipitation in July, effectively wiping out the 32 per cent seasonal rainfall deficit that persisted till the end of May. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Director Meteorological Department Srinagar, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said the active monsoon has brought widespread rainfall across the Union Territory, significantly improving the overall precipitation pattern after months of below-normal rainfall. Till the end of May, J&K was facing a 32 per cent rainfall deficit. However, sustained monsoon activity during July has completely changed the picture, and the Union Territory has now recorded 23 per cent above-normal precipitation during the month, he said. Despite the overall improvement, Dr Ahmad said rainfall distribution has remained uneven. Kathua and Kishtwardistricts inJammu division and Shopian and some parts ofBudgam inKashmir Valley continue to record below-normal precipitation, while almost all other districts have received normal to above-normal rainfall, he said. The MeT Director said the monsoon is expected to remain active over the coming days, with Jammu division likely to receive more intense rainfall than Kashmir Valley. Rain spells will be more effective over the Jammu regiontillAugust 5, and heavy showers at isolated places could trigger landslides, mudslides and shooting stones in vulnerable areas, particularly along hilly roads, he warned. In contrast, Kashmir Valley is likely to witness only light to moderate showers, with no significant weather activity expectedtillAugust 5, he said. Dr Ahmad also expressed confidence that the Amarnath Yatra is expected to continue without any major weather-related disruption, as no severe weather system is presently forecast over the pilgrimage routes. The weather forecast for the Yatra has improved considerably. At present, there is no significant weather activity likely to affect the pilgrimage, he said. Highlighting the technological advancements introduced for the annual pilgrimage, Dr Ahmad said the Meteorological Department has installed nine automated weather stations along the twin routes to the holy cave shrine via Pahalgam and Baltal. We have established nine weather stations along both axes of the Amarnath Yatra. These are supported by Doppler weather radars and high-resolution numerical weather prediction models, enabling us to monitor weather conditions in real time, he said. According to him, the network provides fresh weather observations every 10 minutes, allowing forecasters to issue timely nowcasts, three-day forecasts and seven-day outlooks specifically for the pilgrimage routes. We receive updated weather data every 10 minutes, which has significantly enhanced the accuracy of route-specific forecasts and weather advisories, he said. Dr Ahmad clarified, however, that cloudbursts cannot be predicted with absolute certainty anywhere in the world. No forecasting tool can predict the exact occurrence of a cloudburst. What modern Doppler radars and high-resolution models can do is identify areas where dense cloud formation and intense rainfall are likely. Such conditions may eventually develop into a cloudburst, he explained. He said the advanced monitoring systems generally provide 15 to 20 minutes of lead time, enabling authorities to issue warnings and take precautionary measures whenever intense weather develops. Weather forecasting has always been challenging, particularly in mountainous terrain like the Himalayas. Nevertheless, technological advancements have considerably improved our ability to monitor rapidly evolving weather systems, he said. Citing a recent example, Dr Ahmad said the department had accurately forecast very heavy rainfall over the Pir Panjal range, allowing authorities to remain prepared before the event unfolded. Our prediction regarding intense rainfall over the Pir Panjal range proved accurate. Such forecasts demonstrate the significant improvements achieved through enhanced observational infrastructure and advanced forecasting models, he said.
Nationalism cannot be imposed: Er. Rashid opposes Bill in LS
New Delhi, July 30: Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid on Thursday opposed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, during its passage in the Lok Sabha, arguing that nationalism cannot be enforced through legislation. Amid repeated disruptions in the House, Rashid entered the Well of the Lok Sabha while raising objections to the Bill, which provides statutory protection to Vande Mataram and proposes imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both, for intentionally preventing or disrupting its rendition. Speaking amid the uproar, Rashid said nationalism should emerge from people's sentiments rather than being imposed through legal provisions. Nationalism should inspire people, not be entrusted upon them or imposed through laws, he said. The Baramulla MP alleged that enforced nationalism had affected the culture, language and identity of Jammu and Kashmir. We in Jammu and Kashmir have faced the taste of your enforced nationalism. Under the banner of nationalism, there has been an assault on our culture, our language and our identity, he said. Rashid alleged that changes in educational policies, school syllabi and restrictions on libraries in universities and colleges were part of attempts to reshape the region's cultural landscape. He questioned whether such measures aligned with India's constitutional values of diversity and pluralism. The MP also criticised the BJP, alleging that nationalism was being used to promote a broader ideological agenda. He said regional cultural symbols, including Jammu and Kashmir's erstwhile state song Lehraiye Kashmir Ke Jande, should also be given respect. The Bill was passed amid continued Opposition protests in Parliament, with members raising slogans and entering the Well of the House over various issues during the proceedings.
J&K transport system set for tech-driven transformation
Srinagar, July 30: Srinagar, July 30: Minister for Transport Satish Sharma on Thursday reviewed the functioning of the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC), Transport Department, Motor Vehicles Department and State Motor Garages, stressing on technology-driven reforms, modern infrastructure and improved public services. Chairing a series of review meetings, the Minister assessed the operational performance, financial position, manpower, infrastructure, digital initiatives, road safety measures, fleet management and future expansion plans of departments under the transport sector. Satish Sharma said that an efficient and reliable transport system was essential for economic growth and public welfare, and directed officials to develop a modern, transparent and citizen-centric transport ecosystem. Our vision is to build a transport ecosystem that is efficient, transparent, digitally empowered and environmentally sustainable. Every reform must ultimately improve public service delivery and make transportation safer, more accessible and commuter-friendly, he said. During the JKRTC review, the Minister assessed route coverage, fleet availability, passenger services and financial performance. He directed officials to prepare a time-bound roadmap for fleet augmentation, expansion of services in underserved areas and better utilisation of available resources. He also reviewed the implementation of the free bus travel initiative for women and stressed that welfare schemes should continue while ensuring the financial sustainability of the Corporation. The Minister called for expediting the implementation of the Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS), including GPS-enabled fleet tracking, electronic ticketing and real-time passenger information systems to improve transparency and commuter convenience. He also reviewed plans for induction of electric buses, development of EV charging infrastructure and asset monetisation initiatives. Reviewing the Transport and Motor Vehicles departments, Satish Sharma expressed concern over rising road accidents and directed officials to strengthen enforcement, improve road safety measures and launch wider awareness campaigns. He called for strict action against habitual traffic offenders through suspension of licences, cancellation of registrations and intensified enforcement drives, while emphasising that the focus should remain on saving lives rather than only imposing penalties. The Minister reviewed the progress of key projects including Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs), Automated Testing Stations (ATSs), Institute of Driver Training and Research, Inspection and Certification Centre at Samba, e-DAR platform, PM-Rahat for road accident victims and identification of accident-prone blackspots. He directed officials to expedite infrastructure projects and ensure quality and transparency in execution. The Minister also discussed proposals related to bike taxi and rent-a-bike policies, saying such initiatives should create employment opportunities while ensuring passenger safety and regulatory compliance. Calling for greater use of Artificial Intelligence and data analytics, Satish Sharma said technology should be used for better enforcement, identifying accident hotspots and improving evidence-based policy decisions. During the review of State Motor Garages, the Minister assessed fleet management, vehicle maintenance, workshop infrastructure, procurement, manpower and revenue generation. He directed the department to upgrade workshop facilities, reduce vehicle downtime and gradually introduce fuel-efficient and environment-friendly vehicles. Expressing concern over shortages of drivers, mechanics and technical staff, the Minister called for expediting recruitment and strengthening skill development programmes for personnel. The meeting also reviewed proposals related to revision of the government car policy, with directions to process pending matters within a defined timeline. Earlier, the meeting observed a two-minute silence in memory of Late Jugal Kishore Sharma, Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO), in recognition of his services to the department.
ReT transfer policy report in final stage: Sakeena
Srinagar, Jul 30: Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Thursday said that the committee constituted to frame a transfer policy for Rehbar e Taleem, ReT, teachers has almost completed its work and its report is in the final stage, raising hopes for thousands of teachers awaiting a transfer policy. Speaking to reporters in Ganderbal, Itoo said the demand for a transfer policy for ReT teachers was genuine and the government was aware of the difficulties being faced by many of them. She said the committee had examined the issue in detail and the report was now in the final stage. This is a genuine demand. We are considering genuine cases, including inter district transfers due to marriage and health issues, she said, adding that the government was committed to addressing such cases on humanitarian grounds. On legal matters, the minister said the J&K government has already approached the Supreme Court by filing a fresh petition and is pursuing the matter through the legal process. Responding to a question on the alleged pacemaker scam at Government Medical College, GMC, she said an inquiry had already been ordered into the matter. She said appropriate action would be taken after the final inquiry report is submitted. Itoo also addressed concerns over delays in the Ladli Beti Scheme and clarified that the scheme is active in eight districts of J&K. She said the scheme is being implemented through an online system, where applications are submitted online and sanctions are also processed online without unnecessary delays. She said the government is ensuring that eligible beneficiaries receive the benefits under the scheme in a transparent manner.
UN voices concern over PoJK unrest, reports of civilian deaths
Srinagar, July 30: The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed concern over the situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) amid reports of clashes between protesters and security forces that have allegedly resulted in several deaths. According to reports, between 40 and 75 people have been killed during demonstrations in different parts of PoJK, including Rawalakot and Mirpur, where security forces allegedly used live ammunition and lethal force to disperse protesters. The region has witnessed intensified protests in recent days, with reports of restrictions on movement, disruptions in internet and telecommunication services and curfew-like measures in several areas. The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has alleged that security forces used excessive force against protesters and appealed to the United Nations, international human rights organisations and democratic governments to intervene. In a statement, Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said the criminalisation of a civil society organisation and restrictions on gatherings in PoJK raised serious concerns over violations of rights related to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association. The UN office called for respect for fundamental rights and urged authorities to address concerns through dialogue and peaceful means. The protests have reportedly spread across several areas of PoJK, with demonstrators raising concerns over governance issues and civil rights.
Rising tourist footfall test Kashmirs fragile mountain destinations
Srinagar, Jul 29: As Kashmirs traditional tourist hotspots such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Dal Lake continue to witness unprecedented tourist inflow, an increasing number of tourists and local travellers are venturing into lesser-known destinations across the valley. While the trend is helping distribute tourism benefits to remote villages and scenic landscapes, it is also exposing fragile ecosystems to mounting environmental pressure. Hidden meadows, alpine lakes, waterfalls, mountain streams and forest trails in areas such as Doodhpathris interior stretches, Gurez, Keran, Tangdar, Lolab, Uri, Aharbals upper reaches, Yusmargs unexplored meadows, Naranag, trekking route and several offbeat locations are witnessing a sharp rise in visitors, particularly during weekends and the summer season. Locals said that these visits are increasing littering, plastic pollution, traffic congestion, illegal camping and damage to fragile alpine vegetation. Our village has started receiving hundreds of visitors every weekend. Tourism has increased our earnings, but many people leave behind plastic bottles, food wrappers and disposable plates. There is no system to collect garbage, and locals end up cleaning the area themselves, said Bashir Bhat, a local of Garkote village of Uri. Many visitors light campfires or drive vehicles close to streams and grasslands. These places were never designed to handle such crowds. We fear that if this continues, the natural beauty that attracts tourists will disappear, said a local of Gurez valley. Environmental experts warned that Kashmirs lesser-known destinations are ecologically sensitive and cannot sustain unregulated tourism. Dr Sami Ullah Bhat, Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental Science at the University of Kashmir, told Rising Kashmir that the growing popularity of unexplored destinations is a positive development only if it is backed by scientific planning. First of all, we need to understand the carrying capacity of these locations, which is extremely important. An unregulated flow of travellers can lead to several environmental issues, he said. Bhat stressed that authorities should conduct carrying-capacity studies and regulate vehicle movement at such spots to save the pristine beauty and nature. Another environmental expert wishing not to be named said the government must take proactive measures to minimise ecological damage at these emerging tourist spots. If the huge influx of visitors continues without proper regulation, it could prove disastrous for these places in the long run, he said. Wildlife experts said many of these destinations fall close to forests and wildlife habitats. Human intrusion into sensitive ecosystems increases disturbance to wildlife. Noise, plastic waste and unrestricted movement affect animal behaviour and degrade biodiversity. Sustainable tourism should become an essential part of tourism planning rather than an afterthought, he said. As Kashmir continues to diversify its tourism map, experts say the challenge is no longer attracting visitors but ensuring that the valleys untouched landscapes remain protected for future generations. Without timely planning and regulation, todays hidden gems could soon face the same environmental stress that has long troubled the regions iconic tourist destinations.
You can take only one subhead if space issue
Why Elementary Education Demands Urgent Attention In J&K A child at the age of about four years comes to us and spends six conscious hours with us. After spending about four years with us, if the student does not know letters, words, or simple subtractions, who is to be blamed the most? According to ASER []
Tribute To Teacher: Majeed Majazi Sirs Enduring Legacy Of Education And Literature
A Life Dedicated to Education and Kashmiri Literature Majazi Sirs contribution cannot be measured by books alone. His plays have brought literature closer to the people while preserving the linguistic and cultural ethos of the region. At a time when regional languages face growing challenges, he continued to write, mentor, and inspire, ensuring that Kashmiri []
Wealth, status, and public appreciation will all fade away, but a sincere intention remains preserved with Him forever. The Quran sums it up beautifully: They were commanded only to worship Allah, being sincere to Him in religion. (Al-Bayyinah 98:5). Our deeds may be hidden from people or celebrated before the world, but their true value []
Building Hospital-Based Forensic Ecosystems A Timely Opportunity For Jammu And Kashmir
Forensic science in contemporary times occupies a unique position at the intersection of science, medicine, law, public health, and human rights. Its ethical mandate extends beyond identifying perpetrators. It protects the innocent, prevents wrongful convictions, identifies victims of crime and disasters, and strengthens public confidence in legal institutions. Grounded in scientifically validated methodologies, it strengthens []
Protecting Merit, Restoring Trust
Parliaments passage of the anti-paper leak amendment bill marks an important recognition of a deep and recurring wound in the countrys education system. Paper leaks are not minor administrative failures; they are betrayals of merit, ruined dreams and a direct assault on the faith of young people who prepare for years in hope of a fair chance. By proposing harsher punishment, fast-track trial provisions and tighter investigation mechanisms, the government has signalled that it wants to treat the problem with the seriousness it deserves. That intent is welcome. A society that normalises cheating in public examinations cannot expect to build a competent, confident or ethical generation. When question papers are leaked, the damage goes far beyond a single exam cycle. It rewards criminal networks, demoralises honest candidates and creates a belief that hard work matters less than access and influence. In that sense, the bills tougher penalties, especially for organised crime, are a necessary warning that examination fraud will no longer be treated lightly. Yet legislation alone will not heal the system. India has seen enough laws, committees and assurances to know that the real test lies in enforcement. If leaks continue, the problem is not the absence of punishment but the weakness of institutional safeguards, internal controls and accountability at every stage of examination design, storage and transmission. The new law must therefore be matched by robust prevention, not just stronger punishment after the damage is done. The governments claim that the bill takes a holistic view of exam reform is worth examining carefully. It is certainly better that the law is not confined to one agency alone, but covers a wider range of examinations and institutions. That breadth is important because the scandal of paper leaks is not limited to one recruitment body or one level of government. Still, the answer cannot be to merely widen the net on paper while leaving loopholes in practice. Every exam authority must be made answerable for security protocols, vendor oversight and digital safeguards. The oppositions walkout does not help the seriousness of the issue. Public debate on such a sensitive subject should have been used to press for better safeguards, not to stage a symbolic exit. But the government too would do well to hear the unease behind the criticism. Students are not asking only for punishment after leaks happen. They want certainty that the system will not fail them in the first place. They want accountability when police action is excessive, when recruitment processes are compromised and when committees are formed but recommendations move at a glacial pace. The larger challenge is one of trust. The youth of the country have already endured too many shocks, from exam cancellations to leak scandals to endless uncertainty. If the state is serious about protecting their future, it must go beyond strong words and harsh penalties. It must build a culture where examination papers are secured, institutions are transparent, culprits are swiftly punished, and innocent students are never left to pay for the failures of a broken system. The bill is a beginning, not an end. Its real value will be judged not by the severity of its clauses, but by whether the next generation can finally sit for an exam without fear that someone else has stolen its future.
Centre unveils Rs 58 crore Tourism plan for Kupwara
Srinagar, Jul 30: The Union Government on Thursday said it is committed to the planned development of unexplored tourist destinations in Kupwara district through eco tourism, border tourism, adventure tourism and community based tourism. Replying to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said tourism development is mainly the responsibility of the Jammu and Kashmir administration, while the Centre supports projects through schemes like Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, Challenge Based Destination Development and PRASHAD. He said the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has planned and proposed tourism infrastructure projects worth more than Rs 58 crore in Kupwara. The proposed works include tourist facilitation and reception centres, tourist huts, guest houses, interpretation centres, cafeterias, public convenience facilities and other eco tourism infrastructure. According to the minister, the projects will cover destinations such as Bangus, Lolab, Keran, Karnah, Machil, Teetwal, Zachaldara, Langate and Handwara. Shekhawat said the UT administration has also taken several promotional steps, including International Yoga Day events, FAM tours to Keran, the annual Lolab Bangus Festival, promotion of border tourism and participation in tourism fairs in India and abroad. He said these initiatives are expected to improve visitor facilities, create employment opportunities for local people and promote sustainable tourism across the district. The minister added that the Centre continues to promote Jammu and Kashmir in domestic and international tourism markets while encouraging local participation, skill development and entrepreneurship, especially among youth.
How AI and human exploration are gradually shaping a shared future beyond Earth
DAL LAKE TO DEEP SPACE Beneath Kashmirs calm night sky, the vastness above often feels close. The stars move slowly across the darkness, and Dal Lake reflects them in still water. For generations, people here have looked upward with curiosity, asking what lies beyond. That sense of wonder has always been present. In a place shaped by its landscape and traditions, the sky has offered a moment of reflection, a space where thoughts settle, and questions arise. Today, something new is unfolding. The distance between observation and participation is slowly narrowing. In April 2026, Artemis II carried astronauts around the Moon and safely back to Earth. For the first time in more than fifty years, humans travelled far beyond Earths orbit again. The crew Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen spent nearly ten days in space, reaching more than 250,000 miles from Earth and travelling close to 694,000 miles in total. Their safe return marked an important step. It showed that careful preparation, steady learning, and cooperation continue to guide human progress in space. The next step builds on this work. Artemis 3 is planned to place astronauts near the Moons south pole. Scientific observations have shown evidence of water ice in this region, which may support future exploration. This opens a measured possibility. The Moon may not remain only a place for brief visits. Over time, it may allow longer missions and deeper study, gradually extending human presence beyond Earth. As these missions advance, they are increasingly supported by technology. This journey, however, is not shaped by human effort alone. Space presents unique challenges. Communication between Earth and distant missions can take several minutes, and in deep space it can take even longer. In such situations, systems must operate with a degree of independence. Artificial intelligence is becoming central in meeting this need. At NASA, AI is used to assist with navigation, mission planning, and data analysis. It helps teams manage large volumes of information and respond to changing conditions with greater precision. On Mars, the Mars 2020 Perseverance mission reflects this shift. The rover studies its surroundings, identifies safe paths, and continues its work even when communication delays occur. It moves forward within defined limits, gathering data and adapting to its environment. This marks a meaningful change in how exploration is carried out. Artificial intelligence itself is also evolving. A newer approach, often described as agentic AI, is being explored. These systems are designed to carry out tasks with greater independence within defined boundaries. Researchers at MIT Sloan School of Management describe them as systems that can plan steps, use tools, and complete tasks in structured environments. Companies such as Anthropic, OpenAI, and Google are working on such developments. In the years ahead, these systems may become an important part of how space missions are managed and supported. Alongside this, machines are gradually learning to assist in physical work. Robotic systems, including those being explored by companies like Tesla, are being designed to handle tools and perform repetitive tasks. In space, such systems may support mission preparation, help build early structures, and reduce risks for human crews. Their role will be to assist human effort, not replace it. Space exploration today is also shaped by cooperation. Through initiatives like the Artemis Accords, countries are working together to ensure that space activities remain peaceful and coordinated. This reflects a shared understanding that space is a common domain, where cooperation benefits everyone. India is contributing to this effort in meaningful ways. Through the Indian Space Research Organisation, it has achieved important milestones. Chandrayaan-3 successfully reached the Moons south polar region. The planned Chandrayaan-4 aims to return lunar samples for study. India is also preparing for human spaceflight through Gaganyaan. These efforts contribute to a broader and shared understanding of space. In parallel, the space economy is also growing steadily, with private companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin developing launch systems and spacecraft for human spaceflight, and companies like Virgin Galactic enabling suborbital human travel. Alongside these developments, agencies such as NASA, the European Space Agency, and the China National Space Administration continue their exploration efforts, with contributions from partners including the Canadian Space Agency, while India, through the Indian Space Research Organisation, is preparing for human spaceflight under programmes such as Gaganyaan. As space continues to develop, an important question remains. How widely will its benefits be shared? Space is not only about exploration. It is also about access to knowledge, opportunity, and resources. Ensuring that this progress is inclusive will shape how meaningful this journey becomes. For Kashmir, this moment carries a quiet relevance. The region holds curiosity, depth, and a thoughtful sense of understanding shaped by its surroundings and way of life. With greater access to science and technology education, students here can take part in this evolving field. Because the beginning of space exploration lies in learning. With the right opportunities, meaningful contributions can come from anywhere. Space is already connected to daily life in visible ways. Satellites help monitor glaciers, track changes in snow cover, and improve weather forecasting. These systems support agriculture, disaster preparedness, and environmental awareness. Programmes like the Copernicus Programme provide data that helps regions like Kashmir respond to change. In this way, space science is not distant. It is already present. Amid all this progress, one simple truth remains. Technology can guide and assist, but the sense of wonder felt under the night sky remains deeply human. It encourages curiosity, reflection, and a desire to understand more. This is why this moment matters. Space is opening in a way that allows more people to learn and take part. In the years ahead, exploration will continue to involve not only astronauts, but an even wider community of engineers, researchers, scientists, and professionals across many fields. It is possible to imagine a student from Srinagar contributing to a future mission, or a researcher from the region studying discoveries made beyond Earth. These are no longer distant ideas. They are possibilities that are gradually taking shape. Artificial intelligence is already supporting missions beyond Earth. Human exploration continues step by step, guided by learning and care. And the Moon, once distant, is slowly becoming more accessible. Under the skies of Kashmir, the stars remain unchanged. What is changing is how humanity chooses to reach them. (The author writes on science and technology. Feedback: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com)
Public Examination Amendment Bill is a Systemic Reform
The Government of India has introduced the Public Examination Amendment Bill 2026 ( PEAB) in the parliament to improve the education standards in the country, a significant move considering the recent turmoil over an alleged paper-leak case with respect to the NEET. It is expected that the bill will establish certain tough measures and reforms aimed at curbing malpractices / unfair means affecting the public examinations. In other words, the overall purpose of the bill is to create the values of honesty, integrity, and fairness in the public examination system. Tabling the bill for reforms is appreciable; once it passes, ensuring the implementation of the reforms in letter and spirit will be the key, though. What is noteworthy is the fact that the government in office has abided by what it promised during the recent Janter Manter protests, which were ostensibly a product of the paper-leak incident. It was the honourable Prime Minister himself who proactively issued a firm statement in the backdrop of the irregularities which reportedly surfaced in the NEET. This commitment has manifested itself in the shape of the bill at the earliest. A prudent and principled measure likely to be formulated through the parliament. It should settle well with all the stakeholders that credit goes to the incumbent government for candidly and realistically coming clean on one disturbing aspect: the prevalence of malpractices in the examinations; that is reflected through the very introduction of the PEAB 2026 . A strict regulation, the PEAB, will expectedly dissuade wrongdoers from defiling the sanctity of public examinations. We need virtuous examinations for students' academic achievements; that will be justice in practice. Pertinently, unfair practices ruining examinations have not crept into the system in recent years; those wrongs have been plaguing the system for decades together, leaving the successive governments struggling to rein in the culprits. Several measures, at the state and national level, have been in place against the evil. But has yielded little success. To convincingly and confidently take on the malpractices impacting the examinations, a clear and significant stand is urgent, and the national government has obviously undertaken to fight the evil. In fact, showing the intent-- the introduction of the bill--to correct what harms this vital aspect of education is half the battle won. True, the implementation of the resulting reforms is the primary requirement. There is no denying that several projects and plans, at their implementation, do not achieve their targets. The failure could be attributed to multiple factors. One big factor is a self-seeking attitude of the implementing hands, underscoring the need to train minds, not just hands. Another significant factor is feeling immune to legal fear, which emboldens a person to toy with the constitutional rights of people. Thus, what the person wishes becomes a law for the victim citizens. Among the multiple positive aspects of the bill, the brightest one is that those seeking to misuse examinations to feather their own nests at the expense of students' hardwork and career are unlikely to even think of going ahead with their plots: the bill intends to administer severe penal action for the offenders. Above all, the national government again looks clear and concerned to strictly execute the provisions once the bill is passed. Another attractive part of the bill, in response to the call for reforms by the Janter Manter protests, is to give space to the reforms. Is not it a sign of a responsible government? In the world's biggest democracy, India, voices are heard, and genuine demands of citizens are not dismissed. This is exactly what the prominent message is from the proactive introduction of the bill, a productive act for the nation's progress. The bill in question, it is hoped, must in no case be subject to political polarisation and mileage for certain quarters. As the matter revolves around youth, the nation's future, there should not be any compromise on their career and future. The countrywide students require national security and assurance that their hardwork and dedication will be rewarded as and when they pass a test on merit. This scenario will promote honesty, honour, trust, and confidence-- the values essential for youths to cherish and practice in the wider interest of the nation. A curse on society is a hopeless youth. Apart from proposing tougher measures, one crucial provision of the bill needs to be empowering the youth to always prefer national interests over personal / group interests. No objectives/ ideology, however noble, should be preferred over the national well-being. Now that the PEAB has been tabled in the country's parliament-- where a solution for issues and challenges confronting the nation can be proposed and produced-- it will be virtuous and valiant if all stakeholders put the seal of approval on it. Reforming the examination system is our collective responsibility; let us be part of the solution, not the problem. PS: Should we find an alternative to NEET? That can save children from mental health issues and people from economic issues. Are school examinations not enough for a student to deserve a medical seat without NEET? (The author is a teacher by profession and RK columnist. Feedback: sheikhshabir518@gmail.com )
Simplicity, the Missing Value in Kashmiri Weddings
FROM BURDEN TO DIGNITY Marriage in Kashmir has never been merely a private affair between two individuals. It has always carried the weight of family honour, social expectation, and cultural display. In homes across the Valley, a wedding is rarely treated as a simple union of two people; it becomes a test of status, a measure of generosity, and often, a financial burden that can follow a family for years. What should begin as a celebration of companionship, responsibility, and blessing too often turns into a season of anxiety, debt, and silent strain. In this context, the call to make marriages simpler in Kashmir is not a plea for austerity alone. It is a call for social sanity, economic relief, and moral courage. The problem is not that Kashmiris love celebrations too much. The problem is that celebration has increasingly become entangled with excess. The gifts, the jewellery, the food, the elaborate arrangements, the guest lists, the photography, the dowry-like expectations, the ceremonies stretched over several days, and the pressure to match or outdo what others have done all of these have turned marriages into costly spectacles. Families that can ill afford such expenditure still feel compelled to participate in this race, fearing gossip, criticism, or the shame of appearing less than their neighbours. In such a social climate, choice is often an illusion. A parent may know the burden is too heavy, but social pressure makes retreat feel impossible. This culture of inflated weddings has real consequences. It delays marriages, particularly among young men and women from modest backgrounds. It deepens debt in households already struggling with low incomes, unemployment, and unstable livelihoods. It creates emotional stress before and after the wedding. It also widens social inequality, because those with means can afford display while those without means are forced either to borrow or to compromise their dignity. A marriage that should bring two families together can begin with resentment, exhaustion, and financial distress. That is not a healthy foundation for a household. There is also a deeper cultural contradiction here. Kashmir is a society that has long prized restraint, hospitality, and grace. Its traditions were not meant to encourage wasteful competition. Older generations remember a time when weddings, though joyous, were more intimate and less performative. People came together to bless the couple, share food, exchange goodwill, and stand witness to a new beginning. The ceremony had warmth without extravagance. Today, however, the line between honour and display has become blurred. A modest gathering is too often mistaken for a poor one. Simplicity is interpreted as stinginess. That inversion of values must be challenged. One of the most damaging aspects of the current marriage culture is the pressure placed on the brides family. In many cases, the family of the girl bears the burden of arranging large feasts, expensive household items, gifts, and other social expectations that are never openly named as compulsion but are felt as obligation. Even when people speak against dowry, the social pressure survives in disguised forms. Money may be demanded indirectly, or expected through custom, or extracted through humiliation if a family cannot meet the unwritten standard. This is not tradition in any noble sense. It is coercion wearing cultural clothing. Any serious conversation about simplifying marriages in Kashmir must confront this reality without hesitation. Then there is the issue of ceremony inflation. Weddings are now stretched across multiple events, each one becoming an opportunity for spending. Separate functions, repeated outfit changes, elaborate decor, professional photography, banquet halls, and lavish catering have become normalized, even when the family would rather avoid them. The question must be asked plainly: who benefits from this inflation? Not the young couple, who begin married life under pressure. Not the wider society, which internalizes unrealistic expectations. In truth, the greatest beneficiaries are often the commercial interests that profit from social anxiety. When a wedding becomes an industry, simplicity becomes resistance. But simplifying marriages does not mean diminishing joy. On the contrary, it means restoring joy to its rightful place. A wedding should be remembered for love, prayer, kindness, and the coming together of families not for financial panic. A dignified wedding can be modest, warm, and memorable without being excessive. Good food, honest hospitality, clean arrangements, and heartfelt blessings are enough. No couple should have to begin their life together carrying the burden of a debt taken to impress others. No parent should have to sell land, borrow money, or sacrifice months of earnings to satisfy a social script that benefits nobody. Religious guidance also offers an important reminder. Across faith traditions, marriage is meant to be simple, sincere, and morally grounded. The Prophets (SAW) example, often invoked in discussions of Muslim family life, placed emphasis on ease, modesty, and the removal of unnecessary burden. Yet in practice, many weddings in the Valley have drifted away from that spirit. The language of faith is frequently used in public, but the ethic of simplicity is often ignored in private. If communities truly wish to honour religious values, they must do so not through grand displays but through practical reform. A wedding that is easier for families is also closer to the spirit of mercy and responsibility that religion teaches. This reform cannot be left to individuals alone. Social change in Kashmir will require collective resolve. Families need courage to say no to wasteful customs. Elders need to lead by example rather than enforce outdated expectations. Community leaders, local religious figures, and social organisations must speak clearly against marriage-related excess and covert dowry demands. Public messaging should normalize small, respectful weddings rather than treat them as socially inferior. When a family chooses simplicity, society should applaud it, not pity it. Moral pressure must shift direction: instead of pressuring families to spend more, the community should pressure them to act responsibly. Media too has a role. The Valleys newspapers, social platforms, and influencers often shape what is seen as respectable. If they continue to celebrate glamour without questioning cost, they help sustain the problem. But if they promote modest ceremonies, highlight families that have chosen simplicity, and openly discuss the harms of wedding extravagance, they can help reset public taste. Cultural change is not only about rules; it is also about imagination. People must begin to see that a smaller wedding is not a poorer wedding. It is often a wiser one. There is also a practical dimension that cannot be ignored. Kashmirs economy remains fragile. Unemployment is high, incomes are uncertain, and many households live close to the edge. In such circumstances, a culture of expensive weddings is not merely unwise; it is socially irresponsible. Families already face the cost of education, health care, daily living, and housing. To add the burden of inflated marriage expenses is to push many into long-term distress. Simplifying marriages would not solve every economic problem in the Valley, but it would remove one major source of unnecessary pressure. That itself would be a meaningful public good. The young, perhaps more than anyone else, should take the lead in this change. Those preparing for marriage must begin to ask what kind of life they want to build together. Do they want a few hours of public display followed by years of financial recovery? Or do they want to begin with stability, dignity, and mutual support? A modern marriage in Kashmir need not imitate the loudest social trends. It can be grounded in choice, modesty, and intelligence. Young couples can set a new standard by openly preferring simplicity and refusing to let marriage become an arena of competition. Saying this is easier than doing it. Social customs are stubborn, and fears of judgment run deep. No family wants to be the first to break a pattern if it thinks others will laugh. But every meaningful reform begins when someone chooses principle over pressure. In the Valley, where so many aspects of life are already shaped by hardship, there is no reason to preserve a wedding culture that adds unnecessary pain. We do not need to abolish celebration; we need to discipline it. We do not need to end tradition; we need to rescue it from vanity. We do not need less love; we need less waste. If Kashmir wishes to preserve the dignity of marriage, it must make marriage easier, not harder. It must protect families from financial humiliation. It must treat simplicity as honourable, not shameful. It must restore the wedding to its true purpose: the joining of two lives in hope, trust, and responsibility. A marriage that begins with peace is far more valuable than one that begins with debt. The Valley would do well to remember that. (The author is a lecturer in HED and columnist)
Your AI Listens, But Can It Truly Understand? The Future of Emotional Support
Not very long ago, speaking to a machine about one's deepest fears would have belonged to the realm of science fiction. Today, it has become an everyday reality. Millions of people across the world are typing messages into AI-powered chatbots, not merely to seek information, but to vent, reflect, grieve, celebrate small victories, or simply feel heard after a difficult day. Nobody listens to me. I don't know how to deal with my anxiety. I had a fight with my partner. What do I do now? These are no longer questions directed only at friends, family members, or therapists. Increasingly, they are being asked of artificial intelligence. The rise of AI as an emotional companion marks a fascinating moment in human history. It challenges our understanding of connection, support, and even loneliness. While technology has always transformed the way we communicate, generative AI is beginning to reshape how we seek emotional reassurance. Yet this transformation raises an important question: can an AI that processes language truly understand human emotion? The answer is both simple and complex. AI can listen. It can respond. It can even appear remarkably empathetic. But understanding is something fundamentally different. Unlike human beings, AI does not experience joy, grief, guilt, hope, fear, or love. It does not carry memories of heartbreak, nor does it know the quiet comfort of holding someone's hand through loss. It recognises patterns in language, predicts helpful responses, and mirrors emotional expression with astonishing sophistication. What often feels like empathy is, in reality, an advanced simulation of empathy. For many users, however, this distinction is not immediately obvious. One reason AI has become an appealing source of emotional support is that it removes many of the barriers people face while seeking help. There is no fear of being judged. No appointment to schedule. No concern about burdening another person at an inconvenient hour. AI remains available at midnight, during lonely weekends, and in moments when reaching out to another human feels impossible. For someone overwhelmed by stress or hesitant to express vulnerability, this accessibility can provide immediate relief. Sometimes, simply putting difficult emotions into words reduces their intensity. Psychologists have long recognised the therapeutic value of expressive writing and reflective conversation. AI can facilitate this process by encouraging users to organise their thoughts, identify emotions, and consider different perspectives. In that sense, AI can become a useful emotional mirror. It asks questions. It helps clarify thoughts. It encourages reflection. Sometimes, it gently reminds users to practise grounding techniques, breathing exercises, or self-care routines. These interactions may indeed contribute positively to emotional well-being. However, the danger begins when we mistake responsiveness for understanding. Human emotional support extends far beyond words. A therapist notices changes in tone, body language, hesitation, silence, and contradictions between what is spoken and what remains unspoken. A close friend recognises when a cheerful message hides deep distress. A parent senses anxiety from a single glance. Much of human communication exists between the lines. AI, regardless of its sophistication, has no lived experience from which genuine intuition emerges. It cannot independently recognise when someone is masking suicidal thoughts behind humour, when trauma influences present behaviour, or when a subtle change in expression indicates escalating psychological riskunless those signals are explicitly described in text. This limitation becomes particularly significant in serious mental health conditions. Depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, severe anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and trauma-related illnesses require comprehensive assessment, clinical judgement, and personalised intervention. Recovery often depends not only on conversation but also on trust, observation, therapeutic relationships, and, where necessary, medical treatment. No algorithm, however advanced, can replace these essential elements. Another concern lies in emotional dependence. Humans naturally form attachments. We assign personalities to digital assistants, apologise to robots, and become emotionally invested in fictional characters. It is therefore unsurprising that some individuals begin to view AI as their closest confidant. The comfort feels genuine because the interaction feels personalised. Yet relationships involve reciprocity. A healthy human relationship teaches negotiation, disagreement, patience, accountability, forgiveness, and mutual growth. AI cannot participate in these experiences because it does not possess its own needs, emotions, or independent existence. It cannot challenge us through authentic emotional engagement, nor can it model the complexity of real interpersonal relationships. If AI gradually replaces conversations with family, friends, or community, loneliness may become deeper rather than lighter. Paradoxically, we could find ourselves constantly communicating while becoming increasingly disconnected. This is particularly relevant for young people, who are growing up in an era where digital interaction often precedes face-to-face conversation. Emotional intelligence develops through observing facial expressions, interpreting social cues, resolving conflicts, and experiencing genuine human vulnerability. While AI may strengthen reflection and communication skills in certain contexts, it cannot substitute the social learning that emerges from real relationships. Parents and educators therefore face an important responsibility. Rather than discouraging AI altogether, they must help young people understand its appropriate role. Technology should complement human connection, not replace it. There are also ethical questions surrounding privacy and trust. Conversations that feel intensely personal may be stored, processed, or analysed depending on the platform's policies. Users should remain aware that sharing deeply sensitive personal information with any digital service requires thoughtful consideration of data privacy and security. Emotional safety includes digital safety. At the same time, dismissing AI as entirely harmful would overlook its remarkable potential. For individuals living in remote regions where mental health services remain scarce, AI may offer reliable psychoeducation and encourage help-seeking. Someone unsure whether persistent sadness requires professional attention may gain enough confidence through an AI conversation to consult a psychologist. Individuals waiting weeks for therapy appointments may use AI-guided journaling, mood tracking, or relaxation exercises to support themselves between sessions. Similarly, caregivers experiencing burnout, students preparing for examinations, and professionals struggling with workplace stress may benefit from structured coping strategies generated instantly. In these situations, AI functions not as a therapist but as an accessible mental health assistant. The distinction matters. Just as a fitness application cannot replace a physician treating heart disease, an AI chatbot cannot replace qualified mental health care for complex psychological concerns. Perhaps the most meaningful way to think about AI is as an emotional first-aid kit rather than a hospital. It can help us pause. Reflect. Breathe. Organise overwhelming thoughts. Encourage healthier habits. Suggest questions we may wish to discuss with a therapist. But it cannot diagnose, truly empathise, or accompany us through the deeply human journey of healing. Healing has always depended upon relationships. The comforting presence of another person. The assurance that someone genuinely understands our history. The trust built across shared experiences. The courage to sit with another human being through uncertainty without immediately trying to fix everything. These qualities cannot be generated through algorithms because they emerge from lived human experience. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly woven into our daily lives, society must avoid framing the discussion as a choice between humans and machines. The future is unlikely to belong exclusively to either. Instead, it will depend on thoughtful collaboration. AI can expand access to mental health information, reduce stigma around emotional conversations, and encourage early intervention. Human professionals bring empathy, ethical judgement, cultural understanding, intuition, and therapeutic expertise that technology cannot replicate. Together, these strengths may create a more accessible and responsive mental health ecosystem. The challenge before us is not whether AI should exist in emotional spaces. It already does. The real challenge is ensuring that we do not confuse convenience with connection, availability with understanding, or intelligent responses with genuine compassion. Machines may learn to recognise our words with extraordinary precision. Only people, however, can truly recognise one another. In an increasingly digital world, that distinction may become more valuable than ever. (The author is Co-founder, Bharat Dialogues, National President, WICCI Media Council. For Mental health related Queries call the 24x7 Toll-Free Mental Health Rehabilitation Helpline Kiran (1800-599-0019). Reach the author for counselling at: poojapriyamvada@outlook.com )
Govt to strengthen district, ULB-level ABC teams
Srinagar, July 30: The government has nominated 11 officers and officials from Municipal Corporations and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across Jammu and Kashmir for specialised training under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Programme at the designated Training Centre in Lucknow with an aim to strengthen implementation of the programme across the Union Territory. According to an order, issued by the Housing and Urban Development Department, the nominations have been made in continuation of an earlier government order and in pursuance of the Supreme Court's directions for effective implementation of the Animal Birth Control Programme. The nominated officials include three doctors from Jammu and Srinagar Municipal Corporations, two para-vets from Srinagar Municipal Corporation and six dog catchers from Achabal, Anantnag, Reasi, Kour and Udhampur. The training is aimed at building dedicated Animal Birth Control teams at the Urban Local Body and district levels. The government has appointed Dr. Jaswant Singh, Municipal Veterinary Officer, Jammu Municipal Corporation, as the coordinating officer for this round of training. He will coordinate with the designated training centre in Lucknow. The order directs all concerned Heads of Departments to relieve the nominated officers in time and provide necessary support for their participation. It also states that boarding, lodging, transportation and other admissible expenses will be borne by the respective Municipal Corporations or Urban Local Bodies from available Grant-in-Aid or own-source funds, subject to financial norms. The trainees have been directed to maintain mandatory attendance, with unauthorised absence attracting action under the Service Rules. After completing the programme, they will assist in strengthening district and ULB-level teams for effective implementation of the Animal Birth Control Programme. The dates of the training will be communicated separately.
Residents seek restoration of direct JKRTC Uri-Sgr bus service
Srinagar, Jul 30: Residents of Uri in north Kashmirs Baramulla district have urged the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) to immediately restore the direct bus service between Uri and Srinagar, saying its suspension has caused immense inconvenience to scores of daily commuters. The direct JKRTC bus, which used to depart from Uri at 8:00 am and return from Srinagar at 1:30 pm, was a lifeline for patients, students, government employees and other commuters travelling to the summer capital. However, locals said the service has remained suspended for nearly two months, forcing them to depend on multiple modes of transport to reach their destinations. Residents said the withdrawal of the bus has particularly affected people who travel regularly for medical treatment, educational purposes and official work. The direct bus was the most convenient and affordable mode of transport for us. Patients could reach hospitals in Srinagar on time, students attended colleges without difficulty, and employees reached their offices conveniently. Now we have to change vehicles several times, which is both time-consuming and expensive, said a resident of Uri. Many commuters alleged that although a JKRTC bus is still operating from Nambla village to Baramulla, the corporation has failed to restore the much-needed direct Uri-Srinagar service. The bus is being picked up from Nambla and plies only up to Baramulla. There is no direct JKRTC bus available from Uri to Srinagar anymore. We fail to understand why the service has not been resumed despite repeated requests, a government employee based in Baramulla told Rising Kashmir. Locals said the absence of a direct government-operated bus has increased their dependence on private transport, resulting in higher travel costs and inconvenience, particularly for elderly passengers and those requiring frequent hospital visits. They urged the authorities to restore the service without further delay, saying the direct bus had served as an essential public transport link for people living in the border town. However, the Managing Director and General Manager of JKRTC did not respond to repeated phone calls from Rising Kashmir despite multiple attempts to seek their response.
Two Properties Worth Rs 1.05 Crore Attached in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: Continuing its crackdown on drug trafficking under the Nasha Mukti Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan, Srinagar Police on Thursday attached two immovable properties worth around 1.05 crore belonging to two alleged drug peddlers in separate cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Police said the attached properties were identified during investigation []
Village-wide power cut triggers protest in Handwara village
Handwara, Jul 29: A village wide electricity disconnection in Gonipora area of Handwara over unpaid power bills has triggered a controversy, with Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed accusing the Power Development Department of penalising consumers who had already cleared their dues. The department disconnected electricity to the village after finding that a large number of consumers had pending bills. The MLA said the action unfairly affected genuine consumers who had regularly paid their electricity bills. He said the department should have disconnected only the defaulting connections instead of cutting power to the entire village. Khursheed also alleged selective enforcement of the recovery drive. He claimed that a Fisheries Rest House, occupied by BJP affiliate Javed Qureshi, had electricity dues of around Rs 5 lakh, yet its power connection had not initially been disconnected. He said he was not defending defaulters but maintained that the same rules should apply to everyone. He termed the village wide disconnection a case of collective punishment. Executive Engineer, PDD Division Handwara, Er. Asif Khan, said the department acted on official directions to disconnect power in areas where nearly 80 percent of consumers had outstanding dues. He said that after the MLA raised the issue, electricity was restored to consumers who had already paid their bills through an alternative arrangement. The grievance was addressed immediately and power was restored to bill paying consumers, Khan said. He added that after verification, the electricity connection to the Fisheries Rest House was also disconnected due to pending dues.
Transport Sector Set for Tech-Driven Overhaul in Jammu Kashmir: Minister Satish Sharma
SRINAGAR : The Jammu and Kashmir government on Thursday unveiled a roadmap to modernise the Union Territorys transport sector, with a focus on digital governance, road safety, electric mobility and improved public transport services. Chairing a series of review meetings of the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC), Transport Department, Motor Vehicles Department and []
Two JKAS Officers Among Five CPIOs Appointed by Education Department
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir School Education Department has nominated five officers as Central Public Information Officers (CPIOs) to deal with applications filed under the Right to Information Act, 2005. The nominations were notified through Government Order No. 297-JK (Edu) of 2026, issued on July 28, in pursuance of Section 5(1) of the RTI Act. []
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has directed all Deputy Commissioners to expedite the verification and settlement of claims under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, and certify completion of the process, while reiterating that no eligible forest dweller can be evicted until the statutory recognition procedure []
Five Ghee Samples Declared Unsafe in Anantnag, Sale Prohibited
SRINAGAR: The Food Safety Department has prohibited the sale of five ghee products in Anantnag after laboratory tests found the samples unsafe under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, officials said. The action followed a special enforcement drive conducted by the Food Safety Department, Anantnag, during June 2026 on the directions of the Commissioner, []
Inclement Weather: Schools in One Jammu Kashmir District to Remain Closed Tomorrow
SRINAGAR: The district administration in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch district has ordered the closure of all government and private schools on Friday, July 31, due to prevailing adverse weather conditions. The decision was communicated by the Chief Education Officer (CEO), Poonch, through a circular issued on Thursday, following an advisory from the District Disaster Management []
Jammu Kashmir Govt Assigns Additional Charges to Six Accounts Officers
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has assigned additional charges to six Accounts Officers across various departments with immediate effect in the interest of administration, according to an order issued by the Finance Department. The appointments were made through Government Order No. 248-F of 2026, dated July 29, and will remain in force until further []
Ladakh Declares 23 Heritage Sites as Protected Monuments to Preserve Ancient Civilisational Legacy
SRINAGAR: In a major step towards preserving Ladakhs archaeological and cultural heritage, the Union Territory administration has declared 23 historically significant sites as Protected Monuments under the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Ancient Monuments Preservation Act. The notification, approved by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, provides statutory protection to a diverse range of heritage []
Jammu Kashmir Revenue Employee Suspended After Bribery Complaint, Dismissal Proceedings Initiated
SRINAGAR: A Jammu and Kashmir government employee has been suspended and disciplinary proceedings have been initiated to dismiss him from service after a complaint that he allegedly accepted a bribe for issuing an income certificate to a villager, officials said on Thursday. The action followed a complaint by a citizen, who approached the Deputy Commissioners []
Bear mauls two in Bandiporas Aloosa
Bandipora: Two persons were injured in a bear attack in the Ketson area of Aloosa in north Kashmirs Bandipora district on Thursday, officials said. An official said that the incident took place in the Ketson area when a bear attacked the two individuals, leaving them injured. He said the injured were immediately shifted to a []
ANTF Kashmir Arrest Punjab-Based Peddler, Seize 100 Grams Heroin In Srinagar
Srinagar: The Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) Kashmir on Thursday arrested a Punjab-based drug peddler and recovered 100 grams of heroin from him at Lasjan, Nowgam. In a handout, the police said that the arrest was made during a targeted operation launched by an ANTF team at Lasjan, near the flyover adjacent to Peaks, based on []
Rs 18.96 Crore Water Supply Scheme Approved for Pulwama Town
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has accorded administrative approval to a Rs 18.96 crore water supply scheme for the coverage part of Pulwama town under the Urban Development Sector for the 2026-27 financial year. The approval was issued by the Housing and Urban Development Department through Government Order No. 61-JK (HUD) of 2026 dated []
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Minister Satish Sharma on Thursday said the government has approved the release of the remaining Rs 41.16 lakh for completion of an LPG distributorship sanctioned to Insha Mushtaq, who lost her eyesight after suffering pellet injuries during the 2016 unrest in Kashmir. Justice delayed but not denied, Sharma said while announcing []
Jammu Kashmir Gets Two Food Processing Projects Under PMKSY, Both Yet to Receive Grant Release
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has had two food processing projects approved under the Union Governments Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) during the last five years, but no grant-in-aid has been released for either project so far, according to data tabled in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The two approved projects are located in Kathua []
Jammu Kashmir Records 1,109 Road Accidents on National Highways in 2026, 206 Killed
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir recorded 1,109 road accidents and 206 fatalities on National Highways in 2026, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The figures, based on data available with the Government and including National Highways and expressways, show that 1,658 people were []
Jammu Kashmir Has 3.6 Lakh Rural Households Yet to Get Tap Water Connection Under Jal Jeevan Mission
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has 3,60,642 rural households yet to receive tap water connections under the Jal Jeevan Mission, with 15,64,303 of the Union Territorys 19,24,945 rural households covered as of July 18, 2026, according to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti. The data placed before the Lok Sabha shows that 81.26 per cent of []
Jammu Kashmir Records 5,318 Road Accidents, 984 Deaths in 2025: Lok Sabha
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir recorded 5,318 road accidents and 984 fatalities in 2025, while pedestrian deaths more than tripled to 477 from 144 a year earlier, according to data placed by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways before the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The figures show that road fatalities in JK increased from []
Jammu Kashmir LPG Consumers Rise to 35.64 Lakh, Ladakh Crosses One Lakh: Centre
SRINAGAR: The number of domestic LPG consumers in Jammu and Kashmir increased to 35,64,357 as of April 1, 2026, from 35,68,167 recorded on April 1, 2022, while Ladakhs consumer base rose to 1,03,899 from 94,661 in April 2023, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in the Lok Sabha. []
Jammu Kashmir Gets PMFME Boost as 143 Micro Food Processing Units Secure Loans in Kupwara, Baramulla
SRINAGAR: A total of 143 micro food processing enterprises in Jammu and Kashmirs Kupwara and Baramulla districts have secured loans under the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, according to data presented by the Union Ministry of Food Processing Industries in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The ministry said 53 enterprises []
Jammu Kashmir Has 73 Accident-Prone Black Corridors on National Highways: Lok Sabha
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has 73 accident-prone black corridors on National Highways, while Ladakh has one, according to data based on 20232025 accident records and placed by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The corridors were identified in real time using artificial intelligence-based tools developed by the []
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir recorded the highest number of micro enterprises assisted under the Prime Ministers Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) among Union Territories during the last three financial years, with 32,765 units receiving assistance and an estimated 2,62,120 jobs generated, according to data placed by the Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in []
Man found dead at Srinagars Baghat
Srinagar: A 40-year-old man was found dead at his residence in the Rawathpora Baghat area of Srinagar on Thursday, officials said. An official said that the man was found with injuries reportedly caused by a sharp-edged object inside his house. He said police rushed to the spot soon after the incident and took the body []
New Delhi, July 30: A high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is underway in Parliament as the Rajya Sabha began discussion on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, amid a political confrontation between the government and the Opposition over the alleged police action against student protesters. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha JP Nadda, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval are among those present in the meeting. In the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh moved the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 for consideration and passing. The Bill, which was passed by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, seeks to strengthen the legal framework against examination-related malpractices by enhancing punishments for paper leaks, constituting a Special Task Force for investigations and providing for Special Fast Track Courts for time-bound trials. The Upper House is also scheduled to take up the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah set to move that the Bill, as passed by the Rajya Sabha, be taken into consideration. The developments come amid continuing protests by Opposition parties over the alleged police action during the July 20 student protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Earlier in the day, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi demanded an independent Supreme Court-monitored high-powered committee to investigate the alleged use of force against student protesters. Students deserve justice. An independent SC monitored high powered committee must be constituted to probe brutalities against our students, Gandhi said in a post on X. Opposition MPs also staged a protest at Makar Dwar in the Parliament complex, holding placards questioning who ordered the alleged police action against student protesters and raising slogans demanding accountability from the Centre. The protesters also raised the issue of the alleged embezzlement of donations made to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. Earlier, Congress Rajya Sabha MP Syed Naseer Hussain said the Opposition had demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a statement in Parliament on the alleged police action and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also questioned the absence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah from the debate, saying the Delhi Police functions under the Union Home Ministry and that the Home Minister should answer questions regarding the alleged incident. (ANI)
Gund:- Two school-going girls were injured after being hit by a speeding car on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway in the Gund area of central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Thursday. The shocking incident, which was captured on CCTV, has sparked concern among local residents over reckless driving on the busy highway. The injured girls have been []
Single protest won't bring results: CM Omar on statehood demand
Ganderbal, July 30 : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that a single protest cannot bring results and that repeated efforts andare required to make the demand heard. Speaking with reporters in Ganderbal, CM Omar, per news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), said they took the protest to Delhi knowing that they would not get anything from the first one. A promise made to Jammu and Kashmir regarding statehood remains unfulfilled, he said. He said the National Conference did not wait for August 5 to raise the issue and the party wnet to Delhi to press for their demand. The J&K Assembly had passed a resolution regarding the erstwhile state's special status and constitutional guarantees, which was forwarded to the Centre. Whatever steps were required on August 5 would be taken, but the party was not waiting for the date to act, he said. On the situation in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), CM Omar expressed concern over reports of force being used and innocent people being targeted. We are all concerned. We can only hope that peace prevails there as well, he said(KNO)
Single protest wont bring results: CM Omar on statehood demand
Ganderbal,: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that a single protest cannot bring results and that repeated efforts andare required to make the demand heard. Speaking with reporters in Ganderbal, CM Omar, said they took the protest to Delhi knowing that they would not get anything from the first one. A promise made to []
Pakistan govt must adopt more humane approach...: PDP's Mehbooba Mufti on PoJK violence
New Delhi , July 30: People's Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday urged the Pakistan government to be more humane, expressing deep anguish over the escalating Rawalkot-PoJK violence and heavy-handed response against civilian demonstrators across the Line of Control (LoC). In an X post, Mufti denounced the suppression, stating that peaceful voices are being met with bullets instead of hearing legitimate grievances. The visuals emerging from across the LoC in the other part of Kashmir are deeply heartbreaking. It is painful to see peaceful protesters being met with brute force, she said. She appealed that the Pakistan government should stop the discharge of bullets at the peaceful protesters. The Government of Pakistan must adopt a more humane approach and choose dialogue over force. Reports suggest that the protesters' demands are genuine and deserve to be heard. No nation grows stronger by disempowering its own people or by silencing them at gunpoint. The Government must end the crackdown and stop spraying bullets at peaceful protesters. Kashmiris deserve dignity, justice, and the right to be heard, not repression, she said. The remarks came as protests continued at D-Chowk in Rawalakot-PoJK on Thursday amid allegations of shooting and killings during demonstrations, with social media accounts linked to the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) accusing security forces of using lethal force against protesters. According to the JKJAAC-linked social media accounts, demonstrators have been sitting at D-Chowk for several days while calling for a long march and protesting rutality and arget killings by security forces. One protester, speaking in a video shared by the accounts, alleged that armed personnel positioned in buildings were targeting unarmed civilians. Of the brothers who were martyred, most were shot in the head--what is called a 'headshot.' Brother, we only saw these things in games and places like that. We didn't know these oppressors would do such things to us, the protester said. According to Amnesty International's press release, violence was reported in Rawalakot on July 27, while a political worker was also killed in a clash between supporters of rival parties in Kotli. The organisation said the JAAC claimed 19 people were killed and dozens injured after security forces fired on protesters, while media outlets reported casualties without confirming a death toll. Police, meanwhile, said two of their personnel were injured. Amnesty International also noted that mobile internet services have remained suspended in the region since June 5. It added that media reports indicate at least 40 people have been killed in the run-up to the election, including 34 protesters and six police and paramilitary personnel. (ANI)
Srinagar, July 30:Continuing its sustained and relentless crackdown against drug trafficking under the Nasha Mukti Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Srinagar Police has attached two immovable properties worth approximately 1.05 crore belonging to notorious drug peddlers, reaffirming its commitment to dismantling the financial infrastructure of narcotics networks operating in the district. The first attached property comprises a residential house along with the land underneath, situated at Pamposh Colony, Palpora, Noorbagh, Srinagar, belonging to Aqib Mushtaq Kenu, S/o Mushtaq Ahmad Kenu, R/o Pamposh Colony, Palpora, Noorbagh, Srinagar. The property, having an approximate market value of 50 lakh, has been attached under Section 68-F of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, in connection with FIR No. 48/2022 registered at Police Station Safakadal under Sections 8/21/29 of the NDPS Act. The accused is presently on bail granted by the Hon'ble Court. The second attached property comprises a three-storeyed residential house along with two commercial shops and the land underneath, situated at Pathar Masjid, Zainakadal, Srinagar, belonging to Altaf Ahmad Najar alias T.K. Khan, S/o Late Ghulam Qadir Najar, R/o Pathar Masjid, Zainakadal, Srinagar . The property, with an approximate market value of 55 lakh, has been attached under Section 68-F of Chapter VA of the NDPS Act, 1985, in connection with FIR No. 32/2021 registered under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Kral Khud. The accused is also under preventive detention under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act, 1988, vide Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir Order No. DIVCOM/K/127/2025 dated 15.07.2025, and is presently lodged in preventive detention. Both properties were identified during investigation as having been acquired through proceeds generated from illicit narcotics trafficking. The attachment proceedings were carried out after obtaining due approval from the Competent Authority (SAFEMA), New Delhi, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter VA of the NDPS Act, ensuring strict adherence to all legal and procedural safeguards. The attachment operations were executed by duly constituted Police teams Srinagar, with the properties falling within the jurisdiction of Police Post Noorbagh and Police Station M.R. Gunj, respectively. These actions form part of Srinagar Police's sustained strategy to strike at the economic backbone of drug trafficking networks by depriving offenders of assets amassed through the proceeds of crime. By targeting illegally acquired properties, Srinagar Police aims to deter those engaged in narcotics trafficking and reinforce the rule of law. Srinagar Police reiterates its unwavering commitment to making society drug-free under the Nasha Mukti Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan. The public is urged to continue supporting the police by sharing credible information regarding drug trafficking and other criminal activities so that strict legal action can be taken against those involved.
MeT Forecasts Heavy Rain, Torrential Showers in Jammu Division Till August 4
Srinagar, July 30: The Meteorological Centre (MET) Srinagar has forecast light to moderate rain and thundershowers across Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days, with the possibility of heavy to torrential rainfall in parts of the Jammu division, prompting a warning of flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas. According to the forecast, July 30 and 31 are likely to witness one or two spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers at most places, mainly during the afternoon, evening and early morning hours. Brief intense heavy showers and torrential rain are expected at a few places in the Jammu division. On August 1, scattered places across the Union Territory may receive a spell of light rain or brief thundershowers accompanied by intense showers. From August 2 to 4, the weather department has predicted a few spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places, with heavy rain, intense showers and torrential rainfall likely over a few districts of the Jammu division. The MET Centre said light to moderate rain and thundershowers are also likely at scattered places between August 5 and 7, with brief intense showers at isolated locations. In its advisory, the department warned that heavy rain and brief intense showers are likely in parts of the Jammu division on July 30 and 31, and again on August 2 and 3. It also cautioned that torrential rain may trigger flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas. The weather department has advised the public to remain vigilant and follow advisories issued by the administration.
New Delhi , July 30 : Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday demanded an independent Supreme Court-monitored high-powered committee to investigate the alleged police action against student protesters. In a post on X, Gandhi called for an impartial probe into the alleged use of force against students during the July 20 protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Students deserve justice. An independent SC monitored high powered committee must be constituted to probe brutalities against our students, Gandhi said. Gandhi also shared a video purportedly showing the police action against the protesters. The video shows police personnel lathi-charging demonstrators, while the clip also appears to show a man in civil dress forcefully slamming a student protester carrying the Indian flag onto the road during the police action. The demand comes as Opposition MPs on Thursday staged a protest at Makar Dwar in the Parliament complex over the alleged police action against student protesters and the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. MPs from several INDIA bloc parties gathered at Makar Dwar around 10.30 am, holding placards questioning who gave the orders for the alleged police action against student protesters at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on July 20. The MPs also raised slogans demanding accountability from the Centre over the alleged use of force against students and the alleged financial irregularities in donations made to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. The protest came hours before the Rajya Sabha was scheduled to take up the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, for consideration and passing. Earlier, Congress Rajya Sabha MP Syed Naseer said the Opposition had demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a statement in Parliament on the alleged police action, and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Hussain also questioned the absence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah from the debate, saying the Delhi Police functions under the Union Home Ministry and that the Home Minister should answer questions regarding the alleged police action. The Rajya Sabha is expected to begin discussion on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, at 2 pm. The Bill, passed by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, seeks to strengthen the legal framework against examination-related malpractices by enhancing punishments for paper leaks, constituting a Special Task Force for investigations and providing for Special Fast Track Courts for time-bound trials. (ANI)
Plea on use of pellet gun: SC asks Centre to preserve ammunition log of RAF used in NEET protests
The PIL, filed under Article 32 of the Constitution, has been jointly instituted by Azad along with two individuals who claim they sustained pellet injuries during the Sansad Chalo protest in central Delhi on July 20
Against all odds, Majid Magray set to lead India at Lords
New Delhi: For years, every training session meant travelling more than 50 kilometres as there was hardly any infrastructure for differently abled cricketers in Kashmir. The long commute, limited facilities, and five years of waiting for an India cap could have broken Majid Magrays resolve. Instead, they shaped the player who will now lead India Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Unidentified Body Recovered in Srinagar; Investigation Underway
SRINAGAR: Police have launched an investigation after an unidentified body was recovered from a canal in the Baba Demb area of Srinagar on Thursday morning. According to reports, the body was found floating in the canal near Dawood Bridge, wrapped inside a bathtub. The deceased was reportedly wearing a black T-shirt. Local residents noticed the []
Jammu Kashmir: Govt School Building Damaged as Rear Wall Collapses
SRINAGAR: A government primary school building in Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri district was damaged after its rear wall collapsed following torrential rainfall, reports said on Thursday. The wall collapsed amid incessant rain that has affected several parts of the district over the past few days. No casualties or injuries were reported, as no one was []
Body recovered from Baba Demb canal in Srinagar, investigation launched
Srinagar: An unidentified body was recovered from a water canal in the Baba Demb area of Srinagar on Thursday morning, eyewitnesses said. An eyewitness said that the body was found wrapped in a bathtub and floating in the canal, following which locals informed the police. He said that soon after receiving the information, a police []
Four Booked in Fake Cooking Oil Company Fraud; EOW Kashmir Files Chargesheet
Srinagar, July 30: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has filed a charge-sheet in FIR No. 77/2022 under Sections 420 and 120-B IPC before the Hon'ble Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Srinagar, against four accused persons in a cheating case. The accused are;Mohd Amin Bhat S/o Mohd Afzal Bhat, R/o Khanyar, Srinagar,Khalid Hussain Khan S/o Ghulam Hassan Khan, R/o Gasiyar Hawal, Srinagar, Anil Kumar Maheshwari S/o Ganpat Lal, R/o A-38, Satiya Nagar, Ward No. 09, Jhotwara, Jaipur, Rajasthan and Shashank Kumar S/o Surinder Singh, R/o B-50, Uddai City, Pallapurram-2, Modipurram, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. The case originated from a complaint alleging that Mohammad Amin Bhat of Khanyar, Srinagar, along with Khalid Hussain Khan, Area Sales Manager, and Anil Kumar Maheshwari, Regional Sales Manager of M/s Assured Agro Food Industries, induced him to invest Rs. 15 lakh as a security deposit for the supply of cooking oil. The accused represented that the company was a manufacturer of cooking oil and assured delivery of stock within a week. However, no stock was supplied. Accordingly a probe has been ordered to investigate the allegations and during investigation, it was established that the accused persons, acting in conspiracy, cheated the complainant on the pretext of supplying mustard oil. Enquiries with the Registrar of Companies, Rajasthan, revealed that no company by the name of M/s Assured Agro Food Industries was registered. Investigation further disclosed the involvement of the company's purported owner, Shashank Kumar of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. On completion of investigation, the charge-sheet has been presented before the competent court for judicial proceedings. The Crime Branch has advised the public to remain vigilant against such economic frauds and report any suspicious activities to the SSP, EOW Kashmir. Victims may also lodge complaints through email at sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in
EOW Kashmir Files Chargesheet Against 4 in Fake Cooking Oil Company Fraud Case
Srinagar: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet in a cheating case involving a fake cooking oil company. The CBK said that the chargesheet in FIR No. 77/2022 has been filed before the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Srinagar under Sections 420 and 120-B of the IPC against []
EOW Kashmir Chargesheets Four in Rs 15 Lakh Fake Cooking Oil Company Fraud
SRINAGAR: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir has filed a chargesheet against four persons in connection with an alleged Rs 15 lakh fraud in which a complainant was purportedly duped into depositing money as security for the supply of cooking oil by a company that investigators later found did not exist. According to the Crime []
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SRINAGAR: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will hold a crucial Selection Committee meeting on August 3 in New Delhi to consider the induction of eligible Jammu and Kashmir Police Service (JKPS) officers into the Indian Police Service (IPS) under the promotion quota. The meeting is expected to consider filling eight IPS vacancies identified by []
U-17 Inter-District Provincial Level Subroto Cup Football Tournament begins in Baramulla
Baramulla, July 29: The Under-17 Boys Inter-District Provincial Level Subroto Cup Football Tournament 2026 commenced on Wednesday at St. Joseph's School, Baramulla, under the aegis of Directorate of Youth Services & Sports, Jammu & Kashmir, with DYSS Baramulla serving as the host district. The championship was formally inaugurated by the District Youth Services & Sports Officer (DYSSO), Baramulla, Mushtaq Ahmad Pampori, in the presence of Mubeen Ahmad Khan (PEM), Shabir Ahmad Thoker (PEM), and Showkat Ahmad Waza (PEM) Convener of the Tournament, along with officials, technical staff, coaches, and participating teams. A total of eight districts out of ten are participating in the prestigious Under-17 provincial football championship, providing a competitive platform for young footballers to showcase their talent and sportsmanship. The opening day's first session featured six exciting matches, with Bandipora defeating Anantnag 4-0, Baramulla thrashing Shopian 8-0, and Srinagar registering a dominant 9-0 win over Kulgam. Ganderbal and Budgam played out a closely contested draw, while Srinagar continued their winning run by overcoming Anantnag 4-2. In another evenly fought contest, Baramulla and Budgam shared points after their match ended in a draw. The tournament is expected to witness intense competition in the coming days as participating districts strive to secure the coveted provincial title and earn qualification for the next stage of the prestigious Subroto Cup Football Tournament 2026.
J&K Sports Council to hold Open Selection Trials for Junior Boys Football Team
Srinagar, Jul 29: The Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council has announced open selection trials for the formation of the Junior Boys Football Team that will represent the Union Territory in the upcoming Junior Boys National Football Championship for the Dr. B.C. Roy Trophy 202627, to be conducted under the aegis of the All-India Football Federation (AIFF). The Council has invited talented and eligible young footballers from across Jammu and Kashmir to participate in the trials. Division-level selection trials will be held on 31st July and 1st August 2026 at Mini Stadium Synthetic Turf, Parade Ground, Jammu for players from the Jammu Division, and at Synthetic Turf Football Stadium, TRC, Srinagar for players from the Kashmir Division. The final UT-level selection trials for shortlisted players from both divisions will take place on 3rd and 4th August 2026 at the TRC Football Stadium, Srinagar. The notification states that players born between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2012 are eligible to participate. Applicants must be residents of Jammu & Kashmir and are required to produce their original birth certificate, Aadhaar card with a recent photograph, and two passport-size photographs along with photocopies of all documents for verification. Participants have been instructed to report in complete playing kit, including jersey, shorts, stockings, shin guards and football boots. No TA/DA will be provided for attending the trials. Players selected at the UT level will undergo a coaching camp in Srinagar before the final squad is announced. Selected players may also be required to undergo Bone Age Verification Tests as per AIFF guidelines. The J&K Sports Council has encouraged aspiring footballers to make the most of this opportunity to earn a place in the Union Territory team and showcase their talent at the national level.
J&K Open returns to Srinagar with Rs 1 cr prize purse
Srinagar, Jul 29: The Government of Jammu & Kashmir, through J&K Tourism, and the DP World Professional Golf Tour of India (DP World PGTI) on Wednesday announced the fifth edition of the J&K Open, which will be held at Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar from August 4 to 7. The tournament, carrying a record prize purse of Rs 1 crore, will mark the beginning of the second half of the DP World PGTI's 2026 season. The prize purse has been doubled from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1 crore, underlining the growing stature of the tournament on India's professional golf circuit. The event is supported by J&K Tourism as title partner, with Royal Springs Golf Course serving as the host venue. DP World, Axis Bank, Amul, Amrutanjan Enerlyte, Campa, Air India Maharaja Club and Kalyani are among the key partners supporting the championship. The tournament will feature some of India's leading golfers, including 2026 Order of Merit leader Saptak Talwar, Veer Ahlawat, Om Prakash Chouhan, Manu Gandas, defending champion Shaurya Bhattacharya and Angad Cheema. Fourteen international players from nine countries, including the United States, Japan, Canada, the Czech Republic and Malaysia, will also participate, giving the event a strong global presence. Deputy Director Tourism Kashmir, Rashid Raina, said the government is proud to support the championship at one of India's finest golf venues. He said the event strengthens Jammu & Kashmir's reputation as a leading golf tourism destination while promoting tourism growth, economic development and world class sporting events in the region. DP World PGTI Chief Executive Officer Amandeep Johl said the J&K Open has become one of the most eagerly awaited tournaments on the tour calendar. He thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Government of Jammu & Kashmir and J&K Tourism for their support. He said the Robert Trent Jones II designed Royal Springs Golf Course provides an outstanding championship venue admired for its playing conditions and scenic surroundings. J&K Tourism is using the tournament to promote golf tourism across the Union Territory, which is home to renowned golf courses at Royal Springs, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Jammu Tawi. The Royal Springs Golf Course, located along the Dal Lake with the Zabarwan mountains in the backdrop, is regarded as one of Asia's most picturesque golf courses and is expected to attract players and visitors from across the country and abroad. agencies.
DC Pulwama chairs meeting of District Advisory Committee on My Bharat Initiative
Pulwama, Jul 29: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom on Wednesday chaired a meeting of the District Advisory Committee on My Bharat at the Administrative Complex, Pulwama, to review the implementation and progress of the MY Bharat initiative in the district. At the outset, the District Youth Officer, Pulwama, delivered a detailed presentation highlighting the objectives of MY Bharat and the progress achieved in the district. The presentation covered youth registrations, formation of Youth Clubs, registration of NGOs, experiential learning opportunities, district performance on the MY Bharat portal, events conducted, and the roadmap for strengthening youth participation in the coming months. Addressing the meeting, the DC highlighted the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for youth engagement through skill development, community service, and nation-building activities under the MY Bharat platform. During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the district's performance under various indicators and took stock of the status of youth registrations and institutional participation. He stressed the need for coordinated efforts among all stakeholder departments to enhance outreach and ensure greater enrolment of youth on the MY Bharat platform. Dr. Qayoom directed the concerned officers to intensify awareness campaigns in educational institutions and at the grassroots level through Youth Clubs, NSS, NCC, and other community-based organisations. He also emphasized the importance of organising regular youth-centric activities to encourage leadership and community participation under the My Bharat initiative. Dr. Qayoom emphasized that educational institutions, Youth Clubs, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, and field functionaries should be actively involved in mobilising youth and ensuring maximum registrations. On the occasion, the DC directed all concerned departments and stakeholders to work in close coordination with the District Youth Office to maximise youth enrolment and ensure effective implementation of the objectives of the MY Bharat initiative. The meeting was attended by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Pulwama; General Manager, DIC, Pulwama; Assistant Commissioner Development, Pulwama; and other members of the District Advisory Committee.
CUKashmir celebrates 6-yrs of NEP-2020
Ganderbal, Jul 29: Under the banner of Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam (ABSS)-2026, Central University of Kashmir (CUK) celebrated six years of the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020, at the Tulmulla Campus here Wednesday. Addressing the participants (online), Vice Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, said the NEP-2020 seeks to develop independent learners who possess effective communication skills, digital literacy, experiential learning abilities, and a balanced understanding of the past, present and future. Deliberating on the transformative vision of NEP-2020 and its role in shaping India's future, Prof. A Ravinder Nath said, Educational institutions must nurture students as global citizens equipped with knowledge, competence, values and a deep sense of social responsibility. He stated that students must develop financial literacy, analytical thinking, critical decision-making abilities, social skills and active community engagement, enabling them to respond effectively to the rapidly changing global environment. Prof. A Ravinder Nath reaffirmed that the CUKashmir remains committed to implement the vision of NEP-2020 through multidisciplinary education, research excellence, innovation, digital transformation, skill development, Indian Knowledge Systems and quality enhancement initiatives, thereby contributing meaningfully towards the national aspiration of Viksit Bharat @2047. Addressing the gathering, Registrar, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, said that students should actively acquaint themselves with the University's academic innovations and achievements by exploring the best practices documented on the official website of the University. Director, Directorate of Internal Quality Assurance (DIQA) and Head, Deptt of Education, Prof. Syed Zahoor Geelani, said the University has always remained responsive to national educational initiatives and policy reforms. Recalling the early stages of the policy, he stated that when the draft NEP was released, the CUKashmir emerged as one of the pioneering institutions in the region to organise extensive deliberations on the draft and submit comprehensive institutional inputs and recommendations to the Government. Associate Prof. Deptt of Mathematics and Coordinator, NEP-2020, Dr. Haribhau Bhapkar, highlighted the University's sustained efforts towards effective implementation of the policy. He elaborated on the University's Panchamukhi Sutra, describing it as the guiding philosophy of holistic education comprising academic excellence, empathy, physical well-being, spiritual development and design thinking. He observed that these five pillars collectively prepare students not merely for employment, but for purposeful lives marked by innovation, compassion and responsible citizenship. Earlier, in his address, Dean Students' Welfare, Dr. Jehirul Islam, underscored the transformative impact of NEP-2020 in reshaping India's higher education landscape. The policy has redefined education by promoting multidisciplinary learning, flexibility, innovation, inclusivity and holistic student development. Youth Welfare Officer, Dr. Firdous Ahmad Sofal, Youth Welfare Officer conducted the programme proceedings and highlighted the constitutional values, ethical responsibilities and democratic ideals embedded in NEP-2020. Madhumita Pradhan, proposed the vote of thanks.
DC Kulgam chairs Block Diwas at DH Pora
Kulgam, Jul 29: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Shahzad Alam on Wednesday presided over the Block Diwas at DH Pora, where an extensive public outreach programme was conducted to hear and address the grievances and developmental concerns of local residents. During the programme, people and representatives from different areas of the sub-division including DH Pora, Ahmadabad, Nandimarg, Laisoo,Yarikhah, Kounsarbal, Sadiwari, Aharbal, Khull, and several other villages projected various developmental demands before the DC relating to road connectivity & macadamisation, flood protection works, improvement in provision of drinking water, power tariff bills, staff for local health institutions and ambulatory services, irrigation canal upgradations etc. The DC gave a patient hearing and assured the public about the commitment of the district administration towards their welfare. All issues and demands have been noted and shall be taken at appropriate forums for resolution. The DC sought the cooperation of the residents in effective execution of rural development schemes while presenting the details of many ongoing works in the area. He said, department wise monitoring of public demands shall be undertaken with continuous follow up to ensure their timely fruition. The DC exhorted against the open littering in water bodies and road sides and desisted public on polluting the natural resources and encroachments of canals and public lands. He sought cooperation of all stakeholders towards the socio-economic and inclusive development of the district. He further called upon the public to actively participate in the upcoming Gram Sabhas across all panchayats and verify the Priority Lists of PMAY-G beneficiaries to ensure transparency, fairness and authenticity. The DC also encouraged eligible households to avail the benefits of the PM Surya Ghar initiative.
IUST to host conference on innovative pedagogies for future-ready higher education
Awantipora, Jul 29: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), through its Design Innovation Centre, is set to host a high-profile, two-day National Conference on Innovative Pedagogies for Future-Ready Higher Education from July 30-31, 2026. The mega academic event will be inaugurated by Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman of the Higher Education Council, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, who will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest and deliver the keynote address. The conference aims to bring together Vice Chancellors, heads of institutions, and policy coordinators from across Jammu and Kashmir to strategize the implementation of the pioneering Design Your Own Degree (DYoD) initiative and National Education Policy (NEP-2020) frameworks. Speaking ahead of the event, Vice Chancellor IUST, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, who is the patron of this significant conference, emphasised the salience of this dialogue in the backdrop of the NEP framework, which aims at a collaborative, student-centric, and technology-driven learning ecosystem. He called this conference a meaningful initiative to promote innovations and strengthen future readiness of higher education in the region. The two-day event features a comprehensive lineup of interesting sessions, including interdisciplinary breakthrough sessions by top academicians, including Prof. Shobha Bagai from the University of New Delhi, Prof Javed Hussain Mir, Professor of Practice, DYoD documentary screening that maps student creative projects. The conference will also feature an inter-institutional innovative project showcase, where students from IUST, University of Kashmir, University of Jammu, SMVDU, regional cluster universities, GDC Parade Jammu, and ICSC Kashmir will compete for prestigious innovation titles. The entire event will culminate on July 31 with a formal valedictory session presenting the Best Innovation Award and the Best Interdisciplinary Project Award to pioneering student teams. The conference is being coordinated by Dr. Inayet Rasool, Coordinator, DYoD Programme, IUST.
SKUAST-J trains agripreneurs to build sustainable farm enterprises under HADP
Srinagar, Jul 29: In a push to strengthen farmer-led enterprises and promote market-oriented rural entrepreneurship, the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J) concluded a three-day capacity-building programme aimed at equipping agripreneurs with the skills needed to build sustainable agribusiness models. Organised by Krishi Branding Centre (KBC) of SKUAST-J Agri Business Incubation (ABI) Foundation under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), the training brought together agripreneurs, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Rural Business Service Hubs (RBSHs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), progressive farmers and rural youth for intensive sessions on enterprise development, branding and strategic business planning. The programme forms part of Project-04: Strengthening Agricultural Marketing in Jammu and Kashmir, a flagship component of HADP that seeks to improve value addition, market access and entrepreneurship in the Union Territory's agriculture sector. Addressing participants, Prof. Jyoti Kachroo, Director, SKUAST-J ABI Foundation and Principal Investigator of Krishi Branding Centre, highlighted the role of institutional support, branding and incubation in transforming farmer groups into viable enterprises. In a significant outcome of the programme, the Krishi Branding Centre signed three Memoranda of Agreement (MoAs) with emerging agribusiness enterprises, signalling a move towards stronger industry-academia collaboration and business incubation support. The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to participants. SKUAST-J said the Krishi Branding Centre, working in collaboration with the Agri Business Incubation Centre, will continue to promote innovation-led entrepreneurship through branding, technology transfer, commercialisation and market integration to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir's agribusiness ecosystem.
