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Anantnags Majid Magray Shines for Team India in England, Set to Meet Home Minister Amit Shah

Major turning point in India's digital payment journey: PM Modi on 10 years of UPI

New Delhi, Aug 25: On completion of a decade of the Unified Payments Interface, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday hailed it as a major turning point in India's digital payment journey and said its sheer scale is something every Indian must be proud of. The UPI was launched on August 25, 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) under the regulatory oversight of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The UPI has emerged as the backbone of India's digital payments ecosystem and a critical driver of financial inclusion. A decade ago, UPI was rolled out, marking a major turning point in India's digital payments journey. The sheer scale and reach of UPI are something every Indian must be proud of, Modi said in a post on X. The prime minister also asked people to share with him their UPI experience and how it impacted the life. Over a decade of operations, the UPI has demonstrated extraordinary scale and momentum in the country. Annual transaction volume expanded from just 1.78 crore in 2016-17 to over 24,162 crore transactions in 2025-26, representing an almost 13,000 fold surge in transaction volume. Parallelly, transaction value rose sharply from Rs 0.07 lakh crore in 2016-17 to approximately Rs 314 lakh crore in 2025-26, translating into a more than 4,000 fold increase in transaction value. The UPI has emerged as one of the most successful pillars of India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), providing an interoperable, real-time payments platform that enables seamless peer-to-peer and peer-to-merchant transactions through a single application, an official release said on Monday.

Omar says no further electricity tariff hikes during current governments tenure

No further power tariff hike during my tenure: Omar Abdullah

Tangmarg, Aug 25: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday defended his governments decision to increase electricity tariffs, saying the hike was made out of compulsion rather than choice, while assuring people that his government would not raise power prices any further during its tenure. Addressing a gathering at Tangmarg, Abdullah also hit out at opposition parties for criticising his government over the tariff increase and questioned their record in government, particularly on development projects in the area. They are not wrong in saying that. We increased electricity prices. I accept that. We did not do it out of happiness. We were forced to do it, Abdullah said. He argued that the electricity tariff increase had come after four years, during which inflation had risen substantially across the country. Electricity rates were increased after four years, he said, adding that inflation during the period had risen by around 19 or 20 per cent. Abdullah contrasted his government's decision with previous tariff increases, saying electricity rates had been raised by about 15 per cent when the previous government was in power and by around 13.5 to 14 per cent during the PDP-BJP government headed by Mehbooba Mufti. When these people were in government, when they increased electricity rates four years ago, they increased them by 15 per cent, he said. Referring to the PDP-BJP government, Abdullah said, When the PDP-BJP coalition government was in power, whose sins we are paying for today, electricity rates were also increased when Mehbooba Mufti was chief minister. Why were they silent then? he asked. Abdullah nevertheless acknowledged the burden imposed by the latest increase and sought to assure consumers that there would be no further hikes. I assure you that I will make every possible effort that, God willing, during this government's tenure and thereafter, we will not increase electricity prices any further, he said. The chief minister also sought to counter criticism that his government and its representatives were not doing enough on the ground. He said MLAs from constituencies including Sangrama, Pattan, Baramulla, Beerwah and Uri were continuously working on projects and responding to demands from residents. There is not a single day when my honourable MLAs sitting here whether from Sangrama, Pattan, Baramulla, Beerwah or Uri are not moving around their areas for one project or another, some work or another, or in response to some demand from the people, Abdullah said. He said opposition parties had a legitimate role in criticising the government but accused them of overlooking their own record in office. Their job is to go to a place, close their eyes and say that nothing is happening, he said. Abdullah particularly questioned previous representatives over the failure to establish a fruit mandi in Tangmarg despite the land being available. I ask those gentlemen who have represented people here for 12, 16 or 18 years: if you had the opportunity, why did you not build a fruit mandi here? he said. He stressed that the land on which the mandi is being developed was already available and did not require the government to remove illegal encroachments or acquire fresh land. This land was there. We did not acquire this land. There was no illegal occupation on this land. We did not have to remove anyone from it. The land was already here, Abdullah said. He credited Farooq Shah with pursuing the project with the Lieutenant Governor and said the laying of the foundation stone represented the beginning of a long-awaited development project. Abdullah also listed a range of priorities for the remaining tenure of his government, including drinking water, schools, healthcare, roads, fruit markets and development works through panchayats. All the promises we have made to the people, God willing, over the next three-and-a-quarter years, we will fulfil all those promises and then present ourselves before you, he said. He predicted that Gulmarg-Tangmarg would emerge as one of the most developed Assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir by the end of the government's term. When, after 3.5 years, you look at all the Assembly constituencies, you will find that if there is one constituency among the 90 constituencies that has witnessed the most development, the Gulmarg-Tangmarg constituency will be among them, Abdullah said. He also announced that work on a mini-secretariat in the area would begin this year. God willing, this year itself we will start work on this mini-secretariat, the chief minister said.

Protesters demand capital punishment for teacher accused in Kishtwar rape case

J&K education minister promises action on teachers grievances, RET transfer orders within days

Omar Abdullah backs teachers, says government must fix schools before expecting better outcomes

Srinagar, Aug 25: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has said teachers cannot be made solely responsible for determining the future of the Union Territory, arguing that the government must first improve their working conditions, school infrastructure and staffing before expecting them to shoulder greater responsibility for children's futures. Addressing a gathering of teachers and office-bearers of the J&K Teachers Forum, Omar said teachers already faced an expanding list of responsibilities beyond classroom teaching, including election duties, government functions and social campaigns. It is a fact that the future of Jammu and Kashmir is our children, Omar said. What will be the future of our children? You all have a very big role in that. But if we put all our responsibility on you and say that what Jammu and Kashmir will be like in the future will be decided by our teachers, then I think that would be a great injustice to you and would put excessive pressure on you. He said the role of teachers had become considerably more difficult with the proliferation of smartphones, social media, television channels and, increasingly, artificial intelligence. Today, look at what you are competing with. You are competing with phones, social media, channels and so many other things. And now there is a new thing artificial intelligence, he said. Omar said AI had created a new challenge for teachers in assessing whether students were submitting their own work. I say, how difficult will it be for a teacher to determine whether an assignment submitted by a child, what they have written, is their own work or whether artificial intelligence helped them? he said. The chief minister also criticised the practice of continually assigning additional duties to teachers while their own service-related grievances remained unresolved. There is an August 15 function, there is a January 26 function, and the first thing we tell you is: prepare the children, organise a cultural programme, have them march past, he said. He also cited International Yoga Day, anti-drug campaigns and elections as examples of duties routinely assigned to teachers. When there is election work, we put you in booths in far-flung areas, Omar said. Whenever there is some other work, whenever we have to do something, we do not find anyone else our eyes fall on you. At the same time, he acknowledged that teachers' files did not always move with the same urgency. But when your issues come up, unfortunately, I have to say that your files do not move forward as quickly as the files that are moved when we have to post you somewhere else, he said. Omar said the government had a responsibility to resolve teachers' grievances relating to transfers, departmental promotion committees and vacancies. If you have issues concerning transfers, if you have issues concerning DPCs, if you have issues concerning vacancies, or other matters, then we have to resolve those issues with the same seriousness, he said. And I assure you that as long as Sakina is here and I am working with her, none of your issues will be ignored, he added, referring to Education Minister Sakina Itoo. The chief minister also highlighted the disparity between teachers posted in rural areas and those able to secure postings in urban schools through influence. Providing education in remote rural schools is not easy. Working there is difficult, Omar said. He said some teachers without political or social influence remained in remote schools for long periods, while those with access and influence often managed to remain in urban schools. Perhaps they have never even seen a rural school. They work only in city schools, he said. Omar also drew attention to the problem of so-called ghost schools, where students remain formally enrolled but do not regularly attend classes. He said some students enrolled in schools primarily to appear for board examinations while spending much of their time at private tuition centres. The teacher comes to school. The teacher wants to do their work. But students enrol there only for paperwork, he said. The chief minister acknowledged continuing infrastructure deficiencies, including rented school buildings, unsafe structures and inadequate access to smart classrooms. We talk about smart classrooms, but how far have we been able to take smart classrooms to our children? he said. Smart classrooms are a distant thing; even today, in some places, we are unable to provide proper school structures. Omar said responsibility for those shortcomings rested with the government rather than teachers. But these shortcomings are not your fault. They are ours, he said. Repairing infrastructure is not your responsibility; it is mine. Filling vacancies is not your job; it is mine. Strengthening your hands so that you can perform your work properly is the responsibility of me, Sakina and Nasir. He urged teachers, meanwhile, to prepare students for a rapidly changing world, saying the pace of change expected over the next two or three decades would exceed that witnessed in recent decades. We have made a lot of progress from 1947 to today, Omar said. But the world is changing very rapidly. The change that has taken place in the last 30, 40 or 50 years will happen much faster in the next 20 to 30 years. We have to prepare our children for that, he said, adding that students needed to be equipped to make a positive contribution to Jammu and Kashmir. Omar also addressed concerns over the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), saying the requirement had not originated with the Jammu and Kashmir government and that his administration had repeatedly opposed its application. This is not something that we have created. We have repeatedly tried to fight against it, he said. He linked its applicability in Jammu and Kashmir to the post-2019 constitutional and legal changes, saying that because laws applicable across the country now apply to J&K, the TET requirement had also been extended to the region. Perhaps the Supreme Court's order so far is that this has to be implemented by August 28. So, for the moment, we have time to take our campaign to the Supreme Court, Omar said. He said the government would continue to raise its objections before the Supreme Court. As Sakina has assured you, we continue to raise our voice against this here and in the Supreme Court, he said. Omar's remarks placed the government's responsibilities alongside those of teachers, arguing that better educational outcomes would depend not merely on what teachers did inside classrooms but also on whether the administration succeeded in improving the broader conditions in which they worked. You will be able to do it, you will succeed, only if we succeed, he said. If we are able to improve your conditions, if we are able to improve your infrastructure, if we are able to improve the schools, then you will be able to improve the future of the children. If we fail and then tell you, Now you go and fix everything, that will not happen, he said. Omar also acknowledged financial constraints facing Jammu and Kashmir, saying the government's fiscal position was not as strong as it would like it to be. The financial condition of Jammu and Kashmir is not as strong as we would like it to be, so there are some restrictions, he said. But he maintained that those constraints could not absolve the administration of its responsibility towards teachers. His broader message to the gathering was that teachers should be supported rather than burdened with every expectation surrounding education, social development and the future of Jammu and Kashmir. This is not your responsibility alone, Omar said.

CM Omar flags teacher workload, rural school gaps and vacancies

JMC seals 46 shops in prime market place for 4-year rent default in Jammu

Jammu, Aug 25: The Jammu Municipal Corporation on Tuesday sealed 46 shops at the vegetable market in Indira Chowk for failing to pay rent for more than four years, officials said. A JMC team pasted notices and put locks and seals on the shops after they failed to clear their outstanding dues despite repeated notices, including a final notice, they said. The shopowners subsequently approached Deputy Commissioner (North), JMC, Sanjay Badyal, and assured the corporation that they would pay the rent regularly for the allotted shops, following which the sealing was lifted. The 46 allottees of the open spaces at Indira Chowk had not been paying rent for more than four years, Badyal told reporters here. Due to non-payment of rent, sealing action was carried out on the directions of the municipal commissioner, he said. Later, a delegation of affected shopowners submitted a written request offering to clear the rent dues and pay some amount in advance. After considering their request, the corporation decided to lift the sealing, subject to the payment of the outstanding rent and compliance with the agreed terms, Badyal said.

Eight over ground workers arrested in separate operations in south Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 25: Security forces have arrested eight overground workers in three separate operations across Kashmir, officials said on Tuesday. On a tip off, police and army personnel launched a joint operation in an orchard at Imamsahib in Shopian district. During the search operation, security forces recovered one grenade, two AK magazines, four mobile phones and posters of a banned terror outfit from the orchard belonging to Nazir Ahmad Wani. The three suspected overground workers (OGWs) were identified as Ashiq Hussain Kumar, Arif Kumar, and Harris Manzoor. Security forces had also arrested three OGWs from Shopian district late on Monday night. The officials said three motorcycle-borne individuals were taken into custody after their search led to recovery of two hand grenade and some incriminating materials linked to Hizbul Mujahideen terror outfit. The arrested persons were identified as Junaid Ahmad Dar, Amir Yousuf and Junaid Muzaffar. In another operation, security forces arrested two suspected over ground workers of terrorists in a forest area of Pulwama district, disrupting the terror network in the region. In a significant success towards disrupting terror networks and preventing attempts to disturb peace and security, police, Army and CRPF apprehended two terrorist associates and recovered one pistol, 12 pistol rounds and one hand grenade from their possession in the Yarwan forest area of CB Nath, Rajpora, the officials said. Acting on coordinated security inputs, a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) was launched in the general Yarwan forest area, the officials said. During the operation, the joint teams noticed two individuals emerging from the forest towards CB Nath village in a suspicious manner. The alert teams swiftly moved in and apprehended both individuals, they said. The apprehended individuals have been identified as Latif Ahmad Deedad and Aejaz Ahmad Bajad. During their search, one pistol, 12 pistol rounds and one hand grenade were recovered from their possession, the officials said, adding the suspects were taken into custody. A case under relevant sections of the Arms Act and Unlawful activities Prevention Act was registered and investigation set into motion to ascertain their activities, establish the source of the recovered arms and ammunition, and identify further linkages.

'I can't send doctor sahib back empty-handed: MP Ruhullah on Farooq Abdullah's resignation call

Srinagar, Aug 25 : A day after National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah asked Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi to resign from the Lok Sabha and seek a fresh mandate, the MP on Tuesday indicated that he would respond to the veteran leaders demand in the coming days, while stressing his deep respect for Abdullah. Speaking to reporters, Ruhullah was asked about Farooq Abdullahs call for his resignation. He did not directly say whether he would accept the challenge, but his response suggested that he was weighing the demand seriously. It is not possible that Doctor Sahib asks me for something and I dont give it to him. It is not possible that I send him back empty-handed, Ruhullah said. He has asked for something at this age. I respect him. I dont want him to ask me for somethingand Ireturn it to him empty-handed, he added. I will give an answer in a few days, Ruhullah said. His remarks came a day after Farooq Abdullah publicly challenged him to resign from Parliament and return to the electorate if he believedthat his 2024 Lok Sabha victory was primarily the result ofhis personal political standing. If you think people voted for you, resign and go back to them.Wewill see how many votes you get, Abdullah had said. The exchange follows a period of increasingly public differences between Ruhullah and the National Conference leadership over the partys political approach, particularly on issues including restoration of Article 370, statehood and the constitutional rights of Jammu and Kashmir. Farooq Abdullah had said Ruhullah was free to raise the issue of Article 370 in Parliament, but questioned his approach to the matter. If he thinks Article 370 can be restored, he should take up the issue in Parliament, Abdullah said. The NC president also defended the importance of party organisation and discipline, arguing that candidates contesting elections on the party ticket benefit from the support of the organisation and its workers. Ruhullah, however, has maintained that his political position reflects the mandate given to him by the people and has repeatedly argued that the fight for Jammu and Kashmirs constitutional rights remains unfinished. In recent days, he has also indicated that he could consider resigning from Parliament after taking his campaign on constitutional rights and protections to a certain stage. On Sunday, he said Jammu and Kashmir had continued to lose powers over the years and alleged that its political leadership had failed to regain them. The latest exchange has therefore raised questions about whether the disagreement will remain an internal debate within the National Conference or develop into a more serious political confrontation. Ruhullah was also asked aboutthe reopening of cases relatingto Kashmiri Pandits. He said justice should be delivered but cautioned against turning the process into an instrument of revenge. Everyone should be aware of Kashmiri Pandits. Justice should be delivered. There should be no revenge in the name of justice, he said. The statement places Ruhullahs position in the context of both accountability and reconciliation, stressing that any investigation or legal process should be aimed at delivering justice rather than settling scores.

Will respond in a day or two: Aga Ruhullah on Farooq Abdullahs resignation remark

Govt assigns IAS officer Dr. Sagar Doifode additional charge as IG Registration, J&K

Srinagar, Aug 25: The Jammu and Kashmir government has assigned IAS officer Dr. Sagar Doifode Dattatray, Special Secretary in the Agriculture Production Department, the additional charge of Inspector General of Registration, J&K, until further orders. According to an official order issued by the General Administration Department, Dr Doifode (AGMUT: 2014), who currently serves as Special Secretary in the Agriculture Production Department and holds additional charge as Mission Director for both the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and the J&K Competitiveness Improvement Project (JKCIP), will manage this new role alongside his existing responsibilities

Pakistan, Iran discuss ways to reopen Strait of Hormuz, prevent escalation of West Asia conflict

Islamabad, Aug 25: Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has held comprehensive discussions with the Iranian leadership in Tehran, focusing on measures to prevent further escalation of the West Asia conflict and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the army's media wing said on Tuesday. The army chief, who was accompanied by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, concluded a day-long visit to Iran as part of Islamabads diplomatic efforts to break the deadlock in the ongoing US-Iran conflict, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement. It added that the visit was part of Pakistans diplomatic efforts to end the stalemate in the ongoing US-Iran conflict and explore ways for achieving enduring peace and a permanent end to instability in the region. The army chief called on Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Mohsen Rezaei, Representative of the Supreme Leader on the Supreme National Security Council, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Parliament of Iran, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Foreign Minister of Iran, and Eskandar Momeni, Minister of Interior of Iran. Comprehensive discussions focused on measures to prevent further escalation, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and expedited termination of the conflict, the statement said. The Strait of Hormuz is a 55-km-wide narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, separating the Persian Gulf from the Arabian Sea. It is one of the busiest and most strategically significant shipping routes in the world, as a fifth of global oil passed through it before the conflict began on February 28. The discussions between leaders from Pakistan and Iran also covered regional peace and possible ways to reach a negotiated settlement to the disputes, the statement said. The Iranian leadership appreciated Pakistan's constructive role in facilitating dialogue, de-escalation and a peaceful resolution of the conflict, according to the statement. Pakistan has been leading the push for peace and reviving its mediation efforts in the stalled US-Iran peace negotiations. In April, a ceasefire was announced with an agreement to end the US-Iran conflict. However, the peace process faltered later on and has not been put back on track. The conflict began when the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, triggering Iranian retaliation and choking the vital Strait of Hormuz and entailing a petroleum price hike. An interim peace agreement, which Pakistan signed as a guarantor, derailed last month as tensions escalated in West Asia with the US and Iran resuming military strikes. Pakistan's efforts to revive the talks have so far failed to yield results. The visit by Pakistan's leadership was part of the country's broader diplomatic efforts to help break the deadlock in the conflict and explore ways to achieve lasting peace and an end to regional instability. The visit comes as Washington ramps up pressure on Iran with an expanded round of sanctions, which US officials say are designed to cut off Tehran's economic lifeline and put the world on notice to cease doing business with the country. President Donald Trump has also warned of economic consequences for countries providing what he called any type of lifeline to Iran, as Washington seeks to intensify pressure on Iran. Oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have been severely disrupted, while Tehran has threatened to target unauthorised tankers attempting to transit the waterway.

Amit Shah calls for AI-driven analysis of intelligence data to counter national-security challenges

New Delhi, Aug 24: Directing security agencies to strictly deal with infiltration, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday called for an artificial intelligence-driven analysis of intelligence data to counter various national-security challenges. Inaugurating the two-day ninth National Security Strategies (NSS) Conference-2026, Shah also laid emphasis on training for the implementation of the anti-terror policy developed by his ministry called the PRAHAAR scheme, according to a government statement. The home minister also asked the agencies to expedite trial by bringing back fugitives, using trial-in-absentia provisions and undertaking a comprehensive and integrated approach while investigating anti-terror cases under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the statement said. The Home Minister directed that an AI-based analysis of information available on MAC (Multi Agency Centre) platforms should be done to create SOPs to counter various national security challenges. Union Home Minister directed all the agencies to take strict measures against infiltration, it added. The conference, being held in a hybrid mode, is being attended by 850 senior security and police officers from across the country, besides Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Intelligence Bureau Director Mahesh Dixit, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director Praveen Sood and Secretary of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) Parag Jain, among others. Several security officials and domain experts, deputy national security advisors, heads of paramilitary forces and directors general of police (DGPs) of state police forces are also participating in the conference, the statement said. On the first day of the conference, discussions focussed on critical aspects of national security, including response to counter-terrorism challenges, fusion, analysis and operationalisation of intelligence through the Multi Agency Centre (MAC), vision document on narcotics control, detection and deportation of illegal migrants, a policy framework to combat cyber-crime and proxy warfare by Pakistan, it said. Before inaugurating the conference, Shah laid a wreath at the Martyrs' Column in remembrance of the Intelligence Bureau personnel who died in the line of duty while safeguarding national security and integrity. The deliberations on the second day will continue on threats from sub-aerial systems and countermeasures, securing the blue economy, information warfare and its implications for national security, and the need for a bio-security framework. Pursuant to the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the NSSC is being held in a hybrid format every year since 2021. The objective of the conference is finding solutions to major national-security challenges, using the extensive experience of officers working at the grassroots level in collaboration with domain experts.

CASO in Sopore; AK-47, grenades, IED recovered

Sopore, Aug 24: Security forces recovered a cache of arms and ammunition during a joint search operation in Manzseer area of Sopore in North Kashmir on Monday. Senior Police official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the operation was conducted by the SOG Sopore in coordination with 52 Rashtriya Rifles, CRPF 177 Battalion and CRPF 179 Battalion, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Tarzoo. During the search, the forces recovered one AK-47 rifle, three magazines, 72 rounds of ammunition, four hand grenades and one improvised explosive device from an abandoned house, the officer added.

NC leader booked over alleged provocative remarks against BJP in Ladakh

Leh, Aug 24: Police have registered an FIR against a senior National Conference (NC) leader over his alleged derogatory and provocative remarks against the BJP in Drass district of Ladakh a few days ago, officials said on Monday. The complainant, BJP district president, Drass Fayaz Ahmed Qari, alleged that NC territorial vice president Ghulam Rasool Nagvi described the BJP as a eligion and referred to its workers as Yazidi qaum during the August 21 press conference. The complaint alleged that the remarks were provocative and could create communal tension and disturb public peace and law and order in Ladakh, officials said. Yazidi refers to Yazid ibn Muawiya, the ruler who killed Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, at Karbala in 680 CE. He is known as an oppressor. They said the complainant also submitted video clips of the press conference as supporting material and sought investigation and legal action against the accused. Officials said the case has been taken up for investigation. According to the FIR registered at Police Station Drass, the case was registered on August 22 under Sections 196, 352, 353 and 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which are invoked for hate speech, public provocation, and malicious insults to religion.

PDPs Para demands immediate rollback of revised power tariff, dubs it anti-poor

Srinagar, Aug 24: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislator Waheed-ur-Rehman Para on Monday criticised the government over burdening people with more tariffs and taxes; and demanded immediate rollback of revised power tariff. Terming the recent power tariff hike anti-people and anti-poor, PDP leader advised government to step out of its lavish corridors and face the harsh ground reality of Kashmir. In a post on X, Para said: J&K government needs to step out of its lavish corridors and face the harsh ground reality of Kashmir before burdening people with more tariffs and taxes. The 6.8% hike in electricity tariff is outright anti-people and anti-poor. It must be withdrawn immediately and unconditionally. He said: At a time when jobs are vanishing, businesses are on the verge of collapse, economic distress & youth anxiety is at its peak, Kashmir cannot bear any more taxes. You cannot tax people when you have completely failed to empower, socially and financially. Instead of providing relief, you hike electricity tariff by 6.8%? This is not governance, this is open punishment of the poor.

6.83% Electricity Tariff Hike Is No Big Durden, Says Former Advisor Khursheed Ganai | Interview

Power hike a compulsion, never promised rate wont increase: CM Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Aug 24: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said there was no crisis in the government and maintained that any cabinet reshuffle would be carried out when he deemed it necessary, while defending the recent electricity tariff hike and calling for a thorough investigation into fresh threats to Kashmiri Pandit employees. There is no crisis in the government. Our work is going on, Abdullah said when asked about a possible reshuffle in his government. He said he had only ruled out a reshuffle before August 15 when asked about it earlier, and had not committed to carrying it out immediately afterwards. I only told you that it would not happen before August 15. When it will happen and under what circumstances, leave that to me, he said. On criticism from opposition parties over the increase in electricity tariffs, Abdullah said his government had never promised that power rates would not rise. He reiterated that the governments commitment was to provide 200 units of free electricity to the poorest households. I repeatedly explained in the Assembly that under the free electricity scheme, we would use solar panels to deliver this benefit to people, he said. Abdullah argued that the tariff increase was separate from the free-power scheme and said the government had raised rates by only 6 per cent after four years. We are not celebrating the increase in electricity rates. It was a compulsion for us, he said, adding that lower power-sector losses would reduce the need for such measures in the future. On fresh threats reportedly targeting Kashmiri Pandit employees, Abdullah described the issue as a serious concern and urged the police and intelligence agencies to investigate their source. Threats should not be coming at all, he said, adding that the law-and-order and security agencies should not take these things lightly. He recalled that Pandit employees had been targeted under similar circumstances two to two-and-a-half years ago, saying the government had suffered a great deal of loss as a result. Keeping all our employees safe and protecting them is a very major responsibility of the police, Abdullah said. He also clarified that law and order was not his direct responsibility, saying the matter was handled by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. My advice to the law-and-order administration would be not to take this lightly. There should be a full investigation, he said.

Three fugitives linked to Bambiha Gang deported from Malaysia: Amit Shah

New Delhi, Aug 24: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said three fugitive gangsters linked to the Bambiha Gang, wanted for multiple crimes including cross-border arms and narco-trafficking, have been deported from Malaysia. Indian agencies have facilitated the deportation of 51 hardened criminals in 2026 alone. In a message on 'X', his office posted, Indian agencies got three absconding Indian gangsters apprehended in Malaysia, deported them to India, and sent them to police custody. The fugitives, namely Jaspreet Singh, Ajay Singh and Pawandeep Singh, are linked to the Bambiha Gang and are accused of multiple crimes, including extortion, cross-border arms and narco-trafficking, and a foiled grenade attack in Ludhiana, it said. Under Modi Ji's vision of a safe and secure India, our agencies have facilitated the deportation of 51 hardened criminals in 2026 alone, it said.

'We are not celebrating the power tariff hike; it was a compulsion: Omar Abdullah

On criticism from opposition parties over the increase in electricity tariffs, Abdullah said his government had never promised that power rates would not rise. He reiterated that the governments commitment was to provide 200 units of free electricity to the poorest households. I repeatedly explained in the Assembly that under the free electricity scheme, we would use solar panels to deliver this benefit to people, he said. Abdullah argued that the tariff increase was separate from the free-power scheme and said the government had raised rates by only 6 per cent after four years. We are not celebrating the increase in electricity rates. It was a compulsion for us, he said, adding that lower power-sector losses would reduce the need for such measures in the future.

EOW Kashmir arrests accused in Rs 2 crore investment fraud case in Bengaluru

Srinagar, Aug 24: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of the Crime Branch J&K has arrested a man accused of allegedly cheating several people of around Rs 2 crore through a fraudulent investment scheme, officials said today. The accused, identified as Junaid Ul Islam, son of Nazir Ahmad Baba, a resident of Alamdar Colony, Phase 1, Charar-e-Sharief, Budgam, was arrested from Mangammanapalya in Bengaluru, they said. The arrest was carried out in compliance with the orders of the Court of the 4th Additional Munsiff Judicial Magistrate, Srinagar, which had issued a warrant against him. Junaid was wanted in FIR No. 07/2025, registered under Section 420 of the RPC at Police Station EOW Kashmir, and had allegedly been evading arrest for nearly a year. According to the EOW, the case was registered following a preliminary inquiry that prima facie substantiated allegations of cheating and financial fraud against the accused. The investigation found that the accused allegedly collected approximately Rs 2 crore from several individuals, posing as an investor associated with an e-commerce company and promising monthly returns of 10 per cent. The money was allegedly collected through multiple bank accounts. However, after receiving the funds, the accused allegedly failed to honour his commitments and subsequently became unresponsive to the investors. The EOW said the investigation prima facie established that the accused had dishonestly obtained substantial amounts by promising unusually high returns, thereby disclosing the commission of an offence punishable under Section 420 RPC/IPC. Further investigation in the case is underway. The EOW has also urged the public to remain vigilant against fraudulent investment schemes offering unusually high or guaranteed returns.

Iran's rial currency hits new record low as US prepares to announce more sanctions

Dubai, Aug 24: Iran's currency hit a new record low Monday, with the rial dropping to 2.02 million to the US dollar as markets opened, as the economy has been battered by ongoing sanctions and an American naval blockade. The drop on Iran's informal currency markets came as Washington prepared to announce even more extensive sanctions that it said would be an economic D-Day and would add further pressure. The currency had already been under pressure before the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, amid double-digit inflation and negative growth but has been hitting new record lows as nearly six months of war have taken an even greater toll.

Body of 11-year-old retrieved from Nallah Sindh in Ganderbal after two-day search

Kangan, Aug 24: The body of an 11- year-old boy was retrieved from Nallah Sindh in Ganderbal following an intensive two-day joint search and rescue operation. The deceased has been identified as Mohsin Ahmad a resident of Bamloora area of Ganderbal. The incident occurred when Mohsin reportedly slipped and was swept away by fast-flowing currents while taking a bath in Nallah Sindh near Qamaria park Ganderbal on Sunday. Alarmed onlookers immediately alerted local authorities after he failed to surface. Personnel from the Ganderbal Police, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) units from Ganderbal and Gund, Army , F&ES and local residents immediately mobilized a multi-agency search effort downstream. The search operation continued for 2nd day today and the body has been retrieved from water. Officials said after necessary medico-legal formalities the body will be handed over to the family for last rites. Local police have registered a case regarding the incident. Local administration officials have issued repeated advisories urging youth and tourists to exercise extreme caution near fast-flowing water bodies like Nallah Sindh, especially during summer months when water levels and currents remain unpredictable.

Mian Altaf demands time-bound investigation, fast-track trial into tragic death of minor girl in Kishtwar

Srinagar, Aug 23: Senior National Conference leader and Member of Parliament, Mian Altaf Ahmed, has expressed deep anguish and outrage over the tragic death of a minor school girl in the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district. Demanding immediate intervention from the administration, Mian Altaf called for a comprehensive, time-bound investigation and a fast-track trial to ensure swift justice for the victims family. Terming the incident horrifying and an unpardonable violation of human trust, Mian Altaf stated. In a statement issued, Mian Altaf said the heinous nature of this crime has shocked the conscience of our entire society, urging the establishment of a dedicated fast-track court to conduct day-to-day hearings, ensuring the trial concludes and justice is delivered without procedural delays. Mian Altaf maintained that the investigation must be conducted with complete transparency and that the guilty, if established through due process, should face the strictest punishment permissible under law.

Suspected Pak drone sighting in border villages in J-K's Kathua triggers searches

Jammu, Aug 23: A suspected Pakistan-origin drone was sighted along the International Border (IB) in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, triggering an extensive search operation, officials said. The drone-like object was seen hovering over forward villages in Bobiyan area of Hiranagar sector around 10.35 am, officials said. After few minutes, the suspected drone was seen receding towards Pakistan, they added. Subsequently, security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to rule out the possibility of any payload -- narcotics or weapons -- being airdropped. However, nothing objectionable was recovered during the operation, officials said.

J&K lost powers over years, leadership failed to reclaim them: Ruhullah

Baramulla, Aug 23: National Conference MP for the Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency, Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, on Sunday said Jammu and Kashmir had continued to lose its powers over the years, while its political leadership had failed to regain them. Speaking to reporters during an interaction in Baramulla, Ruhullah said that his criticism is not directed at any individual or political party but reflected the broader political situation in Jammu and Kashmir. J&K has always lost things and not gained, from statehood to Article 370. Politically, J&K has not gained anything right from the outset, he said. Questioning the National Conferences approach after it came to power, Ruhullah alleged that the party had changed its position on the rights lost after 2019. He said people had placed their trust in the NC during the 2024 Assembly elections based on commitments made regarding the restoration of those rights. I ask only for the rights which we told people during election campaigning. It is the partys words too and not mine alone. Kashmiris put trust in NC on the rights lost after 2019, he said. Ruhullah further questioned why elected representatives and party members could not raise concerns if they believed the party leadership had deviated from its commitments. Why cant I raise issues against the party? We are not slaves of the party. We can raise genuine questions if the party is not on the track, he said. The MP questioned the growing focus on restoration of statehood, saying it is not the only issue that had formed part of the NCs political agenda. He recalled that NC vice president and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had earlier criticised those who focused only on statehood, adding that the political agenda extended beyond restoration of statehood. MP Ruhullah said political parties are accountable to the people and should remain open to questions from those who had supported them. Parties are accountable to people, not above questions, he said, asserting that raising concerns over unfulfilled commitments should not be treated as opposition to the party. He added that his position is aimed at ensuring that the issues and rights promised to people during the election campaign remained part of the political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir.(KNO)

This is not the NC it used to be; all they want is power: Mohammad Syed Akhoon

Srinagar is reduced to begging for water: Altaf Bukhari launches sharp attack on Omar govt

Several structures gutted in Qaziabad fire incident

Teen critically injured in bear attack in Ramban

Jammu, Aug 22: A 14-year-old boy was critically injured in a bear attack in a forested area of Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban on Saturday, officials said. Akram Ahmad Chopan, a resident of Seeri village, was attacked by the wild bear at Asher in Banihal area, where he had gone to tend to his livestock, the officials said. They said some shepherds, on hearing his cries, rushed to his rescue and shifted him to the Sub-District Hospital for treatment after chasing away the beast.

DC Srinagar lays foundation stone for additional block at Zila Sainik Bhawan

KTA opposes power tariff hike, says move will further hit J&K economy

Srinagar, Aug 22: The Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) has strongly opposed the latest electricity tariff hike approved by the Jammu and Kashmir Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC), terming it an additional burden on consumers, traders and businesses at a time when the economy of Jammu and Kashmir is already passing through a difficult phase. In a statement issued, KTA President Aijaz Shahdhar said the tariff increase could further weaken economic activity and hurt businesses that are already struggling with rising operational costs, subdued demand and declining purchasing power. He said that instead of providing an impetus to the economy and extending support to the business community, the government was creating additional difficulties for people and enterprises. The economy of Jammu and Kashmir is already facing a downslump. At such a time, the priority of the government should be to provide an impetus to economic activity, support businesses and reduce the burden on people. Instead, increasing electricity tariffs will raise the cost of doing business and put further pressure on an economy that is already struggling, Shahdhar said. He said the tariff hike was particularly difficult to justify when consumers continued to face power curtailments and unreliable supply in several areas. People were promised relief in electricity bills, including 200 units of free electricity, but instead they are now being asked to pay more. This is a contradictory approach. Consumers cannot be expected to continuously bear higher costs while the quality and reliability of supply remain a concern, he said. Shahdhar said traders, manufacturers, hotels, restaurants, workshops and other commercial establishments would be directly affected by the increase, with higher electricity bills adding to their already substantial operating expenses. Every increase in the cost of electricity has a cascading effect. Businesses will either have to absorb the additional cost, which will affect their viability, or pass it on to consumers through higher prices. Neither option is good for an economy that needs growth and recovery, he said. The KTA urged the government to reconsider the tariff hike and take up the matter with JERC in the larger public interest. It also called for urgent measures to strengthen the power sector by reducing transmission and distribution losses, improving revenue collection and ensuring reliable electricity supply. The government should be reducing the cost of doing business and creating an environment where trade and industry can expand. Burdening consumers and businesses with higher power tariffs at this juncture will only make economic recovery more difficult, Shahdhar said. The KTA said it would continue to oppose measures that impose an additional financial burden on the people and business community of Jammu and Kashmir.

NC govt betrays people again: Sunil Sharma on power tariff hike

Srinagar, Aug 22: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, on Saturday strongly criticised the National Conference (NC)-led government over the reported 6.83 per cent increase in electricity tariffs, terming the move a betrayal of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Sharma said the NC had come to power with a clear promise of providing 200 units of free electricity to every household, but nearly two years after the 2024 Assembly elections, the commitment remained unfulfilled. Instead, he said, consumers were now being burdened with higher electricity bills. The NC government promised 200 units of free electricity to every household. But instead of fulfilling that commitment, people are now facing an increase in electricity tariffs. This is not relief; it is a betrayal of the trust placed in the government, Sharma said. He said the 6.83 per cent tariff hike, expected to come into effect from September 1, would further increase the financial burden on ordinary families already struggling with inflation and rising household expenses. Sharma said the development highlighted a stark contradiction between the NCs electoral promises and its performance in government. Before the elections, the promise was 200 units of free electricity; after the elections, the reality is higher electricity bills. The government must explain why the promises made to the people have not been fulfilled, he said. The Leader of Opposition also questioned the Omar Abdullah-led governments commitment to the NCs manifesto promise of providing 200 units of free electricity. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve answers, not slogans. The NC must explain where the promised 200 units of free electricity are and why, instead of fulfilling its commitment, the government is increasing the burden on consumers, Sharma said. Sharma warned that the BJP would continue to raise the concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and hold the NC-led government accountable for the promises made during the 2024 Assembly elections.

IIM Jammu will earn global recognition and respect in next decade: Lieutenant Governor

Jammu, Aug 22: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha joined the Board of Governors, faculty, students, alumni and dignitaries today to celebrate 10 years of IIM Jammu. Reflecting on IIM Jammu's remarkable journey, the Lieutenant Governor said that from a modest beginning to its current standing as one of India's fastest-emerging business schools, the Institute has scripted a new history while setting out an ambitious roadmap for the decade ahead. Recalling that IIM Jammu started a decade ago with just 56 students on a temporary campus on Canal Road, the Lieutenant Governor noted that the institute has since grown into a nationally recognised and internationally engaged centre for management education. He observed that IIM Jammu is now the fifth IIM in the country to hold both AMBA and EFMD accreditation, and it has built academic partnerships with institutions across France, Morocco, South Korea, Greece, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Poland, Sweden, Taiwan and, most recently, Brazil. He said the research output at the institute has also expanded sharply, growing from just two published papers in 2017 to close to 350 this year. The Lieutenant Governor commended the hard work and a decade of consistent effort under the leadership of Director Professor B.S. Sahay, the faculty and the Board of Governors, describing the institute's trajectory as a model that other business schools are beginning to look to for inspiration. I have seen details of one achievement after another, along with several distinctive initiatives that have become an inspiring example, a role model, for other business schools. I am certain that, in the future, people will remember these achievements as a standard and an ideal, and will seek to emulate them, he said. The Lieutenant Governor invoked the founding stories of three of the world's most respected business schools - Harvard, built on the discipline of case-based learning; Stanford, built on connecting the classroom to real-world enterprise through Silicon Valley; and Wharton, built on mastering the complexities of global capital markets. Each, the Lieutenant Governor observed, succeeded not by trying to be everything, but by committing to one distinctive idea and pursuing it with patience over generations. The Lieutenant Governor said that IIM Jammu now stands at a similar starting point and the decisions it makes over the coming years will shape its identity for decades to come. He emphasised four priorities for the IIM Jammu. A distinctive academic identity should be the priority. Rather than relying primarily on case studies drawn from Western business schools, IIM Jammu should build its own tradition of case writing rooted in the realities of Indian enterprise including the logistical and entrepreneurial challenges unique to Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh. Experiential learning. We need to move education beyond the lecture hall. Every student to undertake a real, tangible project before graduation, whether through the institute's Entrepreneurship Centre, a policy challenge, or direct engagement with local businesses supported by its Centre for Small Business Development. Research with a sharp edge should be the focus. Building on the institute's rapid growth in research output, a deeper focus should be on questions specific to border economies, sustainable development and frontier entrepreneurship, areas where IIM Jammu is uniquely positioned to lead. Placements should be seen as a nation-building exercise. I hope within a decade, IIM Jammu graduates would be recognised for reshaping major companies and founding leading enterprises. Each graduate should be seen as a contributor to India's goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, the Lieutenant Governor said. He said the real examinations take place in corporate boardrooms, markets and in life itself, where the data is often incomplete, stakeholders have differing opinions and there is no teacher to provide readymade answers. IIM Jammu's growth must now be converted into new discoveries. IIM Jammu must ask itself what can be done in the fields of administration, sustainable development and entrepreneurship in the economies of border areas. I believe that great institutions are great because, when the nation faces difficult questions, it looks to them for answers. If IIM Jammu continues to move forward with complete confidence over the next ten years, I am certain that its name will be spoken across the world with immense pride and respect, the Lieutenant Governor said. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor released seven coffee-table books of IIM Jammu. Padma Shri Dr. Milind Pralhad Kamble, Chairman, Board of Governors (BoG), IIM Jammu; Sriram Dandekar, Former Chairman, BoG, IIM; Anand Kripalu, Member, BoG, IIM Jammu; Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director IIM Jammu; S. Shivakumar, Operating Partner, Advent International; Vice Chancellors of various Universities; Head of Departments, Faculty and students of IIM Jammu; prominent citizens and senior officials of Police and Civil Administration were present.

Cross-FIRs filed after attack on CJP team in Jaipur during visit to govt school

Jaipur, Aug 22: Amid a row over an alleged attack on members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) during a visit to a government school in Jaipur, the outfit and local villagers have lodged FIRs against each other, accusing one another of assault and creating a ruckus. The CJP team on Friday reached Rampura Kanwarpura village to inspect the condition of a government school when a confrontation broke out between its members and local residents, whom the CJP has accused of being BJP goons. Some villagers, however, claimed that the team's presence created fear in the area. The school had been functioning from a cattle enclosure after its building was declared unsafe. On Saturday morning, its students were shifted to new premises by the authorities. Shivdaspura SHO Rajesh Gautam said that a local villager lodged a complaint last night alleging that CJP members had arrived in large numbers and had intimidated residents. They claimed that children were scared and were not attending school. Gautam said that the second FIR follows a complaint registered by a CJP member, alleging that the team members were beaten up during the incident. They have demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible for the alleged attack. Reacting to the FIR, CJP co-convenor Ashutosh Ranka alleged that the attackers were goons called by BJP leaders. We have videos and all the evidence. If they also have evidence, let them show it, he said. Purported videos of the incident show a large number of people engaging in a heated exchange with the CJP team, pushing and shoving its members as they tried to enter the village. Some clips also showed smashed windows of cars, believed to have belonged to the visiting CJP team. Villagers, allegedly accompanied by BJP workers, put up barricades and forcibly pushed back the CJP team that was visiting the government school as part of its 'School Thik Karo' campaign on Friday morning. The villagers claimed that the government had already sanctioned funds for the repair work of the school building, which could be carried out with local efforts.

Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khans sister files contempt plea over violation of SC hospitalisation order

Islamabad, Aug 22: The sister of jailed former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on Saturday filed a petition in the Supreme Court, accusing the government and senior officials of violating the top courts order to shift him to a private hospital for medical examination and treatment. Uzma Khan has sought contempt proceedings alleging wilful violation of the Supreme Courts August 18 order. The Supreme Court had directed authorities to shift 73-year-old Khan from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad within two days and ordered that he remain there until the next hearing on September 16. Instead, Khan was taken to the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad during the night of August 20-21 for medical examination and treatment before being returned to Adiala Jail. Khans family and leaders of his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, have termed the move a violation of the Supreme Court order and challenged the official action. In her petition, Uzma Khan urged the top court to initiate contempt proceedings against the respondents for their wilful, deliberate and contumacious disobedience and violation of the August 18 order. The respondents include Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and several senior government officials, including Adiala Jail Superintendent Sajid Baig. The petition contended that the court was being approached in light of the non-compliance and brazen violations of the Supreme Courts order by the respondents. It is clear from the respondents own admissions that the court directions contained in the August 18 order were violated, it said. It said the failure to shift Khan to Shifa International Hospital leaves no manner of doubt that the respondents had consciously chosen to disregard and violate the top courts order. It also said the respondents conduct undermined the authority of the Supreme Court and warranted cognisance by the court. The petition further requested the Supreme Court to issue show-cause notices to the respondents and direct them to appear personally. It also sought appropriate punishment against the respondents and asked the court to take all necessary steps to implement its directions for Khans medical examination. The government, however, has defended its decision to take Khan to PIMS rather than Shifa, citing security concerns. Two specialists from Shifa International Hospital also participated in Khans eye examination at PIMS, according to the hospital administration. They said that PIMS specialists conducted other medical examinations on Khan as well. Meanwhile, the government has petitioned the Supreme Court seeking a review and recall of its order to shift the former cricketer-turned-politician to a private hospital, arguing that the order was discriminatory because it applied only to Khan and could set a precedent for other prisoners to seek treatment at private hospitals. The Supreme Courts order followed months of concern raised by Khans family and supporters over his health, particularly an eye condition diagnosed earlier this year. Khan was taken to PIMS several times after his right central retinal vein occlusion was detected in late January. A report submitted by jail authorities to the Supreme Court said Khans eye condition had improved significantly and his vision was almost normal. Khan has been in Rawalpindis Adiala Jail since 2023 in connection with several cases. His supporters have continued to protest against his incarceration. His relatives and party colleagues have repeatedly alleged human rights violations and accused authorities of restricting his access to adequate medical care, family visits and legal counsel. The government has rejected such allegations. The Supreme Courts August 18 order was issued while it was hearing several identical petitions following Khans eye ailment. The petitioners had sought his transfer to a private hospital, saying they were not satisfied with the treatment he was receiving at government hospitals.

Ruhullah calls for political character, values in J&K politics

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Muneer-ul-Islam among 14 J&K officers cleared for induction into IAS

Fourteen serving officers of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) have been cleared for induction into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), following approval by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The development comes after the UPSC, during its two-day meeting held in New Delhi on April 23 and 24, 2026, cleared the induction of 14 serving JKAS officers into the IAS. The remaining nine vacancies pertaining to retired JKAS officers will be carried forward to the next year. Official sources said the General Administration Department (GAD) of the J&K administration has received a communication from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) seeking the consent of the 14 officers for their induction into the IAS. The consent is being sought as some of the officers may choose not to opt for induction into the All India Service, sources said. The communication states that 14 JKAS officers have been cleared for induction into IAS and their consent may be sent to the MHA and DoPT for issuance of a formal notification and allotment year of induction to the officers, the sources said. Among the officers cleared for induction are Muneer-ul-Islam, Babila Rakwal, Shabnam Kamili, Rachna Sharma, Leena Padha, Rajinder Singh Tara, Tariq Hussain Ganai, Sajjad Hussain Ganai, Anoo Malhotra, Nitu Gupta, Prediman Krishen Bhat, Bhawani Rakwal, Smita Sethi and Anuradha Gupta. The formal induction and allocation of the respective year of allotment will follow after the officers convey their consent and the requisite notification is issued by the competent authorities.

EOW Kashmir chargesheets habitual offender in fake job fraud case

Srinagar, Aug 22: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of the Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet before the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Kupwara, against a habitual offender accused of cheating a job aspirant of lakhs of rupees on the pretext of providing a government job, officials said on Saturday. The EOW has filed a chargesheet against Abdul Majeed Mir, son of Ab. Rahim Mir, resident of Lashtiyal Kalaroos, Kupwara, before the Honble Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Kupwara, in connection with FIR No. 18/2026 registered under Sections 420, 468, 471 and 201 RPC, the officials said In an official statement, a spokesperson said that the case pertains to a written complaint alleging that the accused had cheated the complainant of lakhs of rupees on the pretext of providing him with a Government job and, in furtherance of the said deception, had furnished him with a fake and forged appointment order purportedly issued by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, J&K Bank. Accordingly, a probe was ordered, and on the basis of the facts and evidence brought on record during the investigation, the allegations were found to be established and the case was concluded as proved. Consequently, the chargesheet has been presented before the Honble Court for judicial determination, the statement said. Abdul Majeed Mir is a known habitual offender and has been involved in 15 different Criminal cases across Kashmir Valley. He was arrested on 18.07.2026 and is presently lodged in Central Jail Srinagar in connection with FIR No. 12/2026 of Police Station Economic Offences Wing Kashmir, Crime Branch J&K, the spokesperson said. 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 via email at sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in , it said. .

Distrust bringing new challenges for world; India bright spot of growth, hope: PM Modi

New Delhi, Aug 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that India has political stability and continuity in its policies, and the world sees the country as a bright spot of growth and hope. Addressing the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, Modi also said today, there are many concerns regarding growth and in these times, the world has witnessed a very severe form of weaponisation of resources. This atmosphere of distrust is bringing numerous new challenges for the world. Even in such times, the world is seeing India as a bright spot of growth and hope, he said. The prime minister said bringing reforms in all spheres is his government's commitment and that India continues to take several steps to ensure continued growth momentum. Modi asserted that India will further strengthen its position globally and he is committed to ensuring that. We are shaping pro-people, pro-growth policies. We have passed reform bills even during the last Parliament session marred by opposition protests, he said. The prime minister said India is undertaking next-generation reforms at the policy level, so that the country's future is secure. It is reforming governance and ease of living. Reform is not a compulsion for us, it is our commitment, our conviction, he said. Modi promised that he will ensure that the eform express gains further speed. I promise more reforms for ease of living for our people, he said. Modi said the world has many concerns regarding growth as resources are getting weaponised, but India is being seen as a bright spot of growth. He said the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has a clear roadmap for reforms, with a strong focus on governance. Our government is rewarding higher production with incentives, he said. Modi alleged that it was the policy of the previous regimes to keep people in scarcity, so that they beg before the government for even basic needs. He said the licence raj of the previous governments used to add to the burden of unemployment, whereas the current government's production-linked-incentive model is creating opportunities. We are not just changing regulations, we are changing the entire policy of regulations. Our government believes that there should be no regulation for doing something that has not been explicitly prohibited under a law, he said. We are moving from the 'prohibited-unless-permitted' approach to the 'permitted-unless-prohibited' model, the prime minister said. He said India has moved away from the PLP (Production-Linked Punishment) model of the previous governments to PLIs (Production-Linked Incentives) now. Today's young generation will be surprised to hear that there was a time in our country when if a company exceeded the fixed production limit, it would be punished. This was the PLP model of the previous licence-raj governments, he said. The prime minister said there have also been instances where if a factory produced more due to higher demand, it would receive a notice. Those who mock Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat today are carrying forward the same mindset of their predecessors. A particular kind of distorted thinking was behind this approach, he said. Citing an example, the prime minister said earlier, no one could make India's map without permission even though foreign satellites could map India, but his government has changed this system. He also said the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government has decided that border infrastructure is India's strength and not weakness. We have changed the picture of our border infrastructure, Modi said. The prime minister accused the previous governments of making announcements only for elections, while adding that headlines in politics have a life of just 24 hours. I would have made headlines by just promising free electricity, but I decided to provide free solar energy to every household, he said. Modi said over the last few years, the world has witnessed numerous ups and downs, and these experiences have made one thing clear -- whether one likes it or not, the future of every country is connected with that of other countries. Nothing is possible in isolation, so this theme of this year's summit, 'Shared Future', has become even more relevant. India has always moved forward with this very spirit, he said, adding that during the country's G20 presidency, the mantra was One Earth, One Family, One Future. Modi said the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) forecast suggests that India will remain the world's fastest-growing major economy, while asserting that the country is taking steps that are giving momentum to its development. The prime minister also referred to the crisis often engulfing the previous governments, alleging that certain people then always wanted a shortage of essential things and to keep the country's citizens in deprivation. They wanted the public to come before them with folded hands, he said. Modi said earlier, the approach to regulation was prohibited unless permitted, but the current government is changing this approach to permitted unless prohibited. This means that if something is not legally prohibited, there is no need to seek permission at every step. The basic ideology is that the foundation of the relationship between the public and the government should not be suspicion, but trust, he said.

Union Health Minister reviews H1N1 Influenza preparedness; emphasises vigilance, robust surveillance

New Delhi, Aug 21: Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, J P Nadda, today reviewed the prevailing situation and preparedness for H1N1 Influenza in the country, with particular focus on the National Capital. Delhi Health Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh also attended the meeting. The Union Health Minister reviewed the national surveillance and epidemiological situation, Influenza-like illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) trends, testing and laboratory surveillance, and preparedness of healthcare facilities to manage seasonal influenza cases. Nadda emphasised the need for continued vigilance, robust surveillance and proactive preparedness, with close monitoring of influenza trends and timely identification and management of any unusual increase or clustering of cases. The preparedness of healthcare facilities in Delhi was reviewed, including the availability of hospital beds, critical care facilities, oxygen-supported beds, ventilators, essential medicines, diagnostics, and other critical supplies. The Minister stressed the importance of adequate surge capacity and seamless referral mechanisms, particularly for patients requiring specialised or critical care. The Union Health Minister called for continued strengthening of early detection, timely testing and appropriate clinical management of influenza cases, along with effective utilisation of the existing surveillance and laboratory network. Earlier, on 10th July 2026, the Union Health Secretary had written to all States/UTs advising them to strengthen preparedness and surveillance for Acute Respiratory Illness (ARI) and ensure healthcare facilities remain adequately prepared. Nadda also emphasised public awareness and preventive health practices, including respiratory hygiene and hand hygiene, and advised individuals with persistent or severe respiratory symptoms, breathing difficulty or other warning signs to seek medical advice promptly. The Union Health Minister reiterated that the situation is being closely and continuously monitored, while emphasising the need for sustained and coordinated efforts for the prevention and control of seasonal diseases, including Dengue and Malaria. Nadda called for a proactive and preparedness-oriented approach by State Governments, with active participation of Municipal Councillors and other local bodies in generating awareness among communities on the prevention, spread and control of seasonal diseases. Highlighting the increase in TB detection in the National Capital through the active involvement of local bodies and a whole-of-government approach, the Union Minister stressed the importance of active participation of public representatives at all levels in disseminating factual and evidence-based information and strengthening community engagement. The Ministry continues to coordinate closely with States/UTs, hospitals, laboratories and other stakeholders to ensure effective surveillance, early detection, timely clinical management and proactive preparedness for seasonal influenza, including H1N1. The meeting was also attended by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava; Additional Secretary (Public Health) Dr. Rakesh Gupta; Delhi State Health Secretary Rupesh Kumar Thakur and other senior officers.

Restrictions on Jama Masjid pulpit seem part of state policy: Mirwaiz

Srinagar, Aug 21: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq on Friday said that restrictions on his religious activities and attempts to prevent him from addressing congregations at historic religious sites appeared to be part of the state policy. Addressing the Friday congregation at the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar, Mirwaiz said he had returned to the mosque after nearly two weeks during which he was prevented from delivering the Friday sermon there and was also denied an opportunity to address the gathering of Khwaja Digar at Naqshband Sahib. He said being able to address the people was a blessing and called for patience in the face of restrictions. Every opportunity to be there I counted as a blessing from Allah, as restrictions and attempts to silence the pulpit, unfortunately, seemed to be part of the state policy right now, he said. It was a time to bear with patience and continue the good work, however possible, he added. Mirwaiz also spoke about the historical role of the Jama Masjid pulpit, saying it had traditionally been used for religious and moral education and for raising awareness among people about their rights as well as duties. Addressing those imposing restrictions, he said they may not be aware of the history and significance of the pulpit. He said the pulpit had, whenever required, served as a voice for the concerns and aspirations of the people while also promoting peaceful coexistence and advocating minority rights. According to Mirwaiz, the approach adopted from the pulpit had always been guided by Islamic teachings and focused on peaceful and principled engagement. The manner has always been in accordance with Islamic teachings peaceful, principled and dignified; dialogue over confrontation and issue-based over personal, he said. Mirwaiz said the tradition would continue whenever he was given an opportunity to address the people. Inshallah, it will continue to do so whenever given the chance. It is the legacy of my forefathers and the shared inheritance of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he concluded.

PM Modi assures support to space startups, urges them to develop solutions for everyday needs

New Delhi, Aug 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday assured full support of the government to young space entrepreneurs and urged them to explore how space technology can be used in agriculture, livestock management, dairy, environment and other areas that affect people's everyday lives. Interacting with CEOs and founders of 20 space startups here, Modi also hailed them for showing remarkable courage by entering a new and demanding domain of space startups as they have taken risks, trusted the reform process and remained consistent in their efforts. He assured them of the government's full support and called for greater collaboration between space companies and organisations in other sectors to expand the use of their technologies. I assured the space startups that government of India will continue to stand with them as they build India's capabilities for the future. India can offer the world a strong, innovative and commercially viable model in the space sector, he said. Modi also urged the startups to explore how space technology could contribute to agriculture, livestock management, dairy, environment and many other areas that touch everyday lives. The prime minister suggested, Companies working on space debris could work with environmental organisations to scale up their technologies. Space technology companies working with the agriculture sector could collaborate with agricultural universities and departments to help farmers make better informed decisions and maximise their output. The prime minister said the startups made insightful presentations on their work and appreciated the government's space reforms and the opportunities they had created for the industry to grow. It was wonderful to meet the Yuva Urja of India's space sectoryoung entrepreneurs and innovators who have shown remarkable courage by entering a new and demanding domain. They have taken risks, trusted the reform process and remained consistent in their efforts. Due to this, India has achieved a lot in the space sector in the last few years, he said. He said India's private space ecosystem could become a major force for the country and the world and called for an ecosystem in which the world looks to India when thinking about the space sector. India's space sector can act as a magnet to attract global talent, companies and investment to the country, Modi said, urging industry players to rapidly strengthen India's position globally. The prime minister also encouraged space startups to engage with Atal Tinkering Labs, saying they could spark curiosity among schoolchildren and inspire the next generation to participate in the space sector. He recalled that opening the space sector to private participation had generated significant enthusiasm and created new opportunities for industry. The prime minister said many countries either could not invest in the space sector or did not wish to do so, presenting India with a major opportunity to rapidly strengthen its position in the global space industry. He also encouraged space companies to explore new applications of their technologies and focus on how these could make people's lives easier, while calling for greater collaboration between space-sector firms and companies working in other areas. The CEOs of leading companies in the space sector working in diverse fields ranging from building rockets and reusable semi-cryogenic launch vehicles, avionics, satellites, advanced propulsion system, space and defence intelligence, removing space debris, AI-powered hyperlocal weather and climate intelligence, among others, participated in the interaction. The prime minister said the confidence shown by the private space sector had strengthened the vision behind opening the industry to private participation. The CEOs highlighted the rapid progress being made by India's private space industry and shared their vision for its future. They said their companies had invested significant time and effort in building capabilities and developing the required technologies indigenously in the country, while expressing gratitude for the support received from the Prime Minister. They also highlighted the strong support from the government and collaboration within the industry, saying their teams were highly motivated and working with determination to achieve ambitious goals in the space sector. The CEOs recalled that opening the space sector to private participation had generated significant enthusiasm and created new opportunities for industry. They also said several companies had shown interest in adopting and leveraging technologies developed by India's emerging private space industry. The startups participating in the interaction included Skyroot Aerospace, Agnikul Cosmos, Pixxel, Dhruva Space, GalaxEye, PierSight, Bellatrix Aerospace, Digantara, SatSure, Suhora Technologies, Manastu Space, Astrobase, TakeMe2Space, VyomIC, Cosmoserve Space, OrbitAID Aerospace, SkyServe (Hyspace), Serendipity Space, Vassar Labs and mistEO.

Mortar shell destroyed along LoC in Poonch

Mendhar, Aug 21: The Army on Friday detected and destroyed safely a live mortar shell found along the Line of Control (LoC) in Mankote sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, officials said. The mortar shell was neutralised through a controlled disposal operation carried out by the Armys bomb disposal squad (BDS) in Dabraj area, they said. No loss of life or damage to property was reported in the operation, they said.

Rising stars like Indias Atiqa Mir redefining future of motorsport: world body FIA

Paris, Aug 21: World motorsport body FIA has given a strong endorsement for Indian racer Atiqa Mir's special talent, saying rising stars like the 11-year-old are redefining the future of the sport. Atiqa, the first Indian to be backed by the F1 Academy, is currently giving the more experienced drivers a run for their money in the age 12-14 category across karting series in Europe. Her ultimate goal is to reach F1, where no female has raced since 1992. Rising stars such as Atiqa Mir are redefining the future of motor sport and her recent success shows how bright the future is for our sport, FIA, the world body for four-wheel motorsports, said in a post on social media on Thursday. With incredible support from her FIA Member Club, the Western India Automobile Association, Atiqa has already represented her country at the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup and has now started competing in international FIA Karting competitions on her journey to professional racing. Well done Atiqa and we look forward to following your continued success, the FIA added. In May, Atiqa had completed a historic sweep of Round 2 of the Champions of the Future Academy in Greece. Earlier this month, she became the youngest Indian to record two top-10 finishes in a FIA European Championship round in Sweden. Last month, Atiqa had attracted plenty of attention by outqualifying Mercedes junior Niccolo Perico for pole position in Round 3 of the Champions of the Future Academy series in Italy. The FIA too took notice of that standout performance. At the recent Champions of the Future Academy Program event in Italy, 11-year-old Atiqa Mir from India delivered a standout performance, securing pole position and setting an event record against a highly competitive international field. Her achievement reflects the opportunities that accessible competition can create for young drivers as they develop their skills and gain experience on the international stage. Through initiatives that broaden access to motorsport and strengthen talent pathways, the FIA is committed to helping more young people discover, and succeed in our sport, said the FIA in a separate post.

J&K education enrolment rises 17% in two years: Sakina Itoo

Constable's residence searched under probe into 'forgery' in securing appointment: J-K Police

Srinagar, Aug 21: The Jammu and Kashmir Crime Branch on Friday searched the residence of a policeman as part of an investigation into alleged forgery to secure an appointment in the police department, an officer said. The case pertains to allegations regarding the appointment of selection grade Constable Manzoor Ahmad Najar, a resident of Safakadal area of the city, through submission of forged documents relating to his date of birth and educational qualifications, the officer said. A case in this regard has been registered under Sections 420 (cheating), 468 (forgery) and 471 (using a forged document) of RPC. The Special Crime Wing (Kashmir) of the Crime Branch conducted the search in compliance with a search warrant issued by the Court of Special Mobile Magistrate (PT&E), Srinagar, according to the officer. The search was conducted in accordance with due process of law, the official said, adding that further details will be shared as the investigation progresses.

From Iran to Kashmir on a bicycle: Iranian womans incredible journey

Budha Amarnath pilgrim dies of cardiac arrest in Poonch

Poonch/Jammu, Aug 21: A 68-year-old pilgrim from Bihar undertaking the Budha Amarnath yatra died after complaining of chest discomfort at a lodging centre in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Friday, officials said. The deceased was identified as Dinesh Prasad, a resident of Belaganj in Gaya district of Bihar, they said. According to officials, the pilgrim developed chest discomfort during the intervening night of August 20 and 21, and was brought to the District Hospital Poonch at around 12:15 am where he passed away. The cause of death was recorded as cardiac arrest, officials said The Budha Amarnath yatra, which was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on August 17 from Jammu, will continue till August 28.

Pakistan's ex-PM Imran Khan shifted back to jail from hospital

Islamabad, Aug 21 : Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan was shifted back to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi on Friday morning after undergoing a medical examination at a private hospital in Islamabad, where he was taken from prison in compliance with a Supreme Court order. Khan, 73, was moved to Shifa International Hospital after midnight in compliance with the court's August 18 order directing that he be transferred there within two days after a medical report submitted before it said he was suffering from level three plus anxiety. Level three plus anxiety refers to high-level or severe anxiety where worry overwhelms daily tasks, triggers intense physical strain and disrupts clear thinking. In a social media post, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed that the former premier had been taken back to Adiala Jail after being examined at the hospital. In the light of the Supreme Courts order, the prisoner was taken to the hospital under appropriate security arrangements during the night between August 20 and 21, the minister said. He did not name Khan nor Shifa International Hospital in his post. A team of qualified doctors, including an ophthalmologist, a cardiologist, and a physician, conducted a detailed examination of him and declared him medically fit. His sister, Uzma Khan, remained present during all stages of the medical examination/treatment, Tarar said. After the completion of the entire medical process, he was shifted back to Adiala jail at approximately 5 am, he said, without naming the deposed prime minister. Earlier, Khan's international media spokesperson Zulfi Bukhari had confirmed that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder had been shifted from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital following the Supreme Court order. Khan had been lodged in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, a detention facility on the outskirts of the garrison city. He was arrested on August 5, 2023, on multiple charges, including corruption, and has remained in custody since then. The apex court on Tuesday directed that Khan be taken to Shifa International Hospital within the next two days, and he shall remain there until the next hearing of his case on September 16. The government on Thursday filed a petition in the court, seeking a review and recall of its order. However, the court's registrar's office returned the petition, citing incomplete paper books as the reason. Khans party has threatened to file a contempt of court petition against the government on Friday if he is not admitted to hospital by Thursday 11:59 pm. Rana Sanaullah, the Advisor to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, on Thursday had claimed that there was no deadline for transferring Khan to the hospital. The PTI founder's family and supporters have been raising concerns over his health. One of the main concerns in Khans case was an eye condition. The former cricketer-turned-politician was taken to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad for eye treatment multiple times over the last few months after his ailment -- right central retinal vein occlusion -- came to light in late January. Demands to move him to a private hospital intensified since then. Khan's relatives and party colleagues have repeatedly alleged human rights violations, and accused the authorities of restricting his access to adequate medical care, family visits and legal counsel.

Ladakh on diplomatic radar

Leh, Aug 20:US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor arrived in Leh on Thursday on his maiden visit Ladakh, marking a significant diplomatic movement by a senior American envoy to the strategically sensitive frontier region following the 2020 military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Gor reached KushokBakulaRimpochee Airport in Leh in the afternoon after morning flight operations from Srinagar were temporarily disrupted due to adverse weather conditions in the mountainous region. Soon after his arrival, the envoy was escorted under tight security cover as his motorcade proceeded towards the city. Gor later travelled to Sangam, the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers, where he participated in a river-rafting activity covering several kilometres, beginning from Tsogti. He subsequently checked into a local hotel in Leh. His Ladakh visit comes a day after a series of high-profile engagements in Srinagar, where Gor described Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India and indicated that Washington could review its long-standing travel advisories for the region. His scheduled visit to Leh is the first official visit by a US ambassador to the strategic frontier region of Ladakh since the June 2020 Galwan Valley clashes between Indian and Chinese troops. During his stay, Gor is expected to meet senior officials of the Ladakh administration, security officials and local stakeholders. The visit has also drawn attention because Tibetan spiritual leader the 14th Dalai Lama is presently in Leh, where he spends his summers and conducts religious discourses and meets followers. It was, however, not immediately clear whether the US envoy would meet the Dalai Lama during his visit. Gor is scheduled to return to New Delhi on August 22. Sources said Lieutenant Governor of LadakhVinai Kumar Saxena is presently in New Delhi and is expected to return to Ladakh by August 21. The high-profile visit comes amid growing diplomatic convergence between India and the United States and underscores Washingtons interest in the security and stability of Indias northern frontier. Security arrangements across Leh have been significantly strengthened during the ambassadors visit.

PM Modi chairs third high-level meeting with Secretaries to Govt of India

New Delhi, Aug 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the third high-level meeting with Secretaries to the Government of India at his residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg earlier today. He discussed the future action agenda of Ministries and Departments dealing with Infrastructure and Connectivity, Security and External Affairs, and Governance. Noting that deliberations had already been held with two groups of Secretaries, Prime Minister said that Secretaries, in addition to thinking about immediate issues and statistics, should also think with a long-term perspective on how the countrys future should be shaped. Discussing the challenge of overcoming silos, Prime Minister stressed that silos are not merely an organisational problem but also a problem of mindset. He said silos can be both horizontal and vertical. He stressed that officials must take ownership of their responsibilities and work with a spirit of belongingness. Emphasising the importance of collective effort, Prime Minister cited the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic and the West Asia crisis, when officials across departments worked together effectively. He said that such coordination mechanisms should become a natural part of the governments work culture. Prime Minister called for effective use of Artificial Intelligence while ensuring human intervention and judgement. He called for exploring innovative ways of combining the capabilities of AI with human expertise. Prime Minister emphasised that data is a national asset and a resource for the future. He noted that the government invests resources in collecting, storing and managing data, but its full potential is not always realised because of departmental silos and fragmented systems. He pointed to differences in the manner in which data is collected and managed for various purposes, and called for finding solutions that enable greater interoperability and effective use of data. Prime Minister called for greater engagement between government departments, universities and young people to bring fresh perspectives in policymaking. He said wider engagement with universities and young people can bring new and unconventional ideas. Prime Minister also called for greater focus on research and innovation, including in the defence sector. He emphasised the need to further strengthen Indias defence industry and make it more competitive at the global level. He stressed the importance of developing innovative defence courses and strengthening human resource development in the defence sector. Prime Minister also discussed the need for a comprehensive approach to strengthening Indias maritime sector. He recalled that shipbuilding was accorded infrastructure status and called for assessing whether the intended objectives are being achieved in mission mode. He reiterated the need for India to move from port development to port-led development. Prime Minister emphasised the need for better connectivity between manufacturing units and export-oriented units, so that Indias manufacturing and export capabilities can fully benefit from its maritime infrastructure. Prime Minister concluded by reiterating the need for a whole-of-government approach, greater coordination, innovative thinking and collective ownership to address complex challenges and shape Indias future with a long-term perspective. Prime Minister underlined the importance of informal interaction and building team spirit among officers. He encouraged senior officers to develop greater personal and informal engagement with junior colleagues and to build stronger networks across cadres and departments. The Secretaries shared their experiences on sectoral priorities, emerging challenges and implementation issues. The meeting was attended by the Cabinet Secretary, Secretaries of key Ministries and Departments, and senior officials from the Prime Ministers Office.

Mealybug Disease Hits Poplar and Willow Trees in Pulwama and Kulgam, Farmers Fear Losses

Assembly employees protest GAD order on Deputy Secretarys deputation; MLAs extend support

Ashok Bhan welcomes US Ambassadors statement on Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 20: Chairman Kashmir Policy and Strategy Group, Ashok Bhan on Thursday warmly welcomed the statement of the US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, during his visit to Srinagar, that Jammu & Kashmir is an important part of India. In a statement issued, Bhan said that such a clear and unambiguous statement and acknowledgement is significant that comes at a time when Indias position on Jammu & Kashmir has consistently been that the region is an integral part of the country. He said the Ambassadors observations on the improving security environment and his appreciation of the efforts of the Government of India and the Jammu & Kashmir administration are equally welcome. His indication that the United States may review its travel advisory for J&K is a positive recognition of the changing ground realities and the growing confidence in peace, stability and normalcy in the region. Bhan said the statement should also encourage a larger international engagement with Jammu & Kashmir based on development, democracy, economic opportunity, tourism and the aspirations of its people, rather than through the prism of conflict and terrorism. The people of Jammu & Kashmir deserve peace, prosperity, dignity and full participation in Indias democratic, economic and constitutional journey, he said. At the same time, this welcome development must strengthen our resolve to address the remaining political and humanitarian challenges within the constitutional framework. Restoration of democratic institutions, reconciliation among communities and the dignified and secure return of those who were forced into exile must remain important components of the larger process of healing and rebuilding Jammu & Kashmir. The future of J&K must be defined by peace, pluralism, constitutional democracy and an empowered people, Bhan said. Bhan emphasized that the return of the exiled Kashmiri Pandit community must be an integral part of the larger process of peace, reconciliation and reconstruction in Jammu & Kashmir. The Government of India and the J&K administration should evolve a time-bound, secure, dignified and community-sensitive return and rehabilitation module, with assured physical security, protection of property and cultural heritage, livelihood and housing support, and mechanisms for restoring legitimate rights and community institutions. The objective should not merely be the rehabilitation of displaced families outside Kashmir, but enabling the safe and honourable return of the exiled natives to their ancestral homeland, at least in three smart cities in three districts headquarters i.e., Srinagar, Baramulla and Anantnag with dignity, equality and a meaningful stake in the social, economic and political life of a peaceful and pluralistic Jammu & Kashmir.

Naeem Akhtar urges govt to make rainwater harvesting part of JJM in hilly areas

Bandipora, 20 Aug: Former Minister and PDP leader Naeem Akhtar has urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to integrate rainwater harvesting and storage systems with the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), particularly in hilly and mountainous habitations facing difficulties due to the absence of dependable perennial water sources. Akhtar said he discussed the proposal with Additional Chief Secretary Shaleen Kabra during a meeting and subsequently followed up the matter with a detailed note, highlighting the need for a more sustainable approach to drinking water supply in the mountainous regions of Jammu and Kashmir. In his note, Akhtar pointed out that a significant number of habitations in the Union Territory are situated in mountainous terrain where reliable and perennial sources of water are either scarce or altogether absent. He said that in several cases, JJM schemes have been planned around seasonal springs and streams which may initially appear adequate but often witness a substantial decline in discharge during lean seasons. According to the former minister, some such water sources have even dried up after schemes were commissioned, making it difficult to maintain assured and sustainable tap-water supply to the concerned habitations. Akhtar said that ironically, many of these mountainous areas receive substantial rainfall and snowfall every year, but a large portion of this water is lost as surface runoff due to the absence of adequate infrastructure for its collection and storage. He proposed that small-scale rainwater harvesting structures and storage reservoirs should be incorporated into JJM schemes in habitations where dependable natural water sources are unavailable. The stored water could subsequently supplement drinking water supplies during periods when existing sources face depletion. He also suggested that, wherever technically feasible, stored water could be conveyed through gravity-based systems, reducing dependence on energy-intensive pumping arrangements. Akhtar specifically referred to several villages in Bandipora district, including Doban, Malangam, Argam, Chittibandi, Aloosa, Ajas and Guroora, where he said he had personally observed the need for such an intervention. He also mentioned Hajibal village in Baramulla district, besides instances in Rajouri and Poonch, where villages receive considerable rainfall but continue to face drinking water shortages because of the absence of dependable perennial sources. To minimise the additional financial burden on the government, Akhtar suggested that rainwater harvesting infrastructure could be developed through convergence with existing government programmes, including the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), MGNREGA and schemes of the Rural Development, Irrigation and Flood Control and Agriculture Departments. He said such convergence could help create durable community assets while making better use of existing resources. He further suggested that ST Sub-Plan funds could be utilised for such interventions in mountainous areas inhabited predominantly by Scheduled Tribe populations. Akhtar has requested the government to consider issuing appropriate policy directions and technical guidelines for incorporating rainwater harvesting components into JJM schemes in identified vulnerable habitations. He said such an initiative could significantly improve the sustainability and reliability of rural drinking water supply in the mountainous areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The proposal seeks to address a key challenge faced by remote hill habitationswhere water is available in abundance during the wet season but is not adequately captured and stored for use during periods of water-source depletion. Akhtar has urged the concerned authorities to examine the proposal and explore its integration into the planning and implementation of JJM schemes in vulnerable areas across Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)

ACB nabs SMC building inspector for accepting Rs 10,000 bribe

Srinagar, Aug 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (JKACB) on Thursday said it had trapped and arrested a Junior Building Inspector of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) for allegedly demanding and accepting a Rs 10,000 bribe from a complainant. Official said that Anti Corruption Bureau received a written complaint alleging that Gazala Akhter, Jr. Building Inspector, SMC, Ward No. 28, Srinagar, had demanded illegal gratification from the complainant in connection with the construction of two structures, despite the complainant having already obtained the requisite building permission from the competent authority. It was further alleged that the accused public servant was deliberately adopting delaying tactics by obstructing ongoing construction and causing harassment to the complainant with the intention of preventing him from completing the construction within the stipulated period, thereby putting the complainant under pressure to pay the demanded amount. Upon receipt of the complaint, a discreet verification was conducted, which prima facie substantiated the allegations. Accordingly, FIR No. 11/2026 under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 was registered at Police Station ACB Srinagar, and investigation was taken up. During the course of investigation, a trap team was constituted. The team laid a successful trap and apprehended the accused public servant, Gazala Akhter, Jr. Building Inspector, SMC Srinagar, red-handed while demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 10,000/- from the complainant. The bribe amount was recovered from her possession in the presence of independent witnesses, and she was taken into custody. Further investigation in the case is in progress, officials added.

Rs 31-crore modern abattoir to come up in Srinagar: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Aug 20: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said a 31-crore modern abattoir project in Srinagar had been revived and would introduce systematic testing and certification of meat sold in the city. Omar said the project, originally conceived in 2011-12, had remained stalled for several reasons before being revived by Srinagar Municipal Corporation Commissioner Fazl-ul-Haseeb and other officials. Almost 31 crore will be spent on it, Omar said, adding that the facility would test sheep brought for slaughter to ensure they were free of disease. The meat leaving the facility would also be halal-certified, he said. Although the project is to be completed in two years, Haseeb has assured me that they will complete it within a year and a half, Omar said. The Chief Minister said the project was particularly important given complaints about the quality of meat sold in Srinagar over the past two years. There were major complaints regarding meat, and in many places poor-quality meat was also found being sold to people, he said. He recalled that consumers had earlier been able to identify inspected meat through an official stamp. There was a time when meat sold in Srinagar and surrounding areas carried a stamp. You knew that the meat was genuine and safe, Omar said. We want to restart it, so that wherever meat is sold in Srinagar, it carries an official stamp and people know that it is of good quality and that eating it will not harm their health, he added. Film festival not about bringing Bollywood stars On the upcoming film festival in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar played down expectations of participation by Hollywood stars and said the event was primarily intended to expose local audiences and aspiring filmmakers to different forms of cinema. Don't expect Hollywood. I wish we had reached a stage where people from Hollywood came, but that will take time, he said, adding that the participation of some Bollywood personalities would be welcome. However, Omar stressed that attracting Bollywood celebrities was not the festival's objective. The purpose is not to bring Bollywood people here. Our effort is to give people here exposure to different kinds of films, he said. It is not my purpose, nor is it the purpose of this film festival, that we should remain under the misconception that if Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan or Salman Khan comes here, then our film festival will become successful, he added. The festival would instead focus on screening films that local audiences would not normally get to watch, besides conducting workshops in editing, directing, cinematography and music. Omar said the aim was also to develop local technical expertise so that filmmakers shooting in Kashmir would not have to depend entirely on technicians from outside. Our people should be able to do that work, and employment will also increase here as a result. That is the effort, he said. Omar declines comment on US-Pakistan diplomatic row Asked about the meeting between him and US Ambassador Sergio Gor and the subsequent summoning of Pakistan's diplomatic representative, Omar said the matter concerned Washington and Islamabad. They were not summoned; the Charg dAffaires was. This is a matter between Pakistan and America. Neither you nor I can do anything about it, he said. On Congress saying that Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India and questioning why such a statement should come from the US, Omar declined to engage in a political exchange. I am not getting into this now. Congress has a point of view. They are a political party; they are the largest Opposition party; they are entitled to their point of view, he said. I am not going to get into a war of words over this. What can I say about it? he added. AIIMS work progressing, law university file nearly ready On the proposed AIIMS facility, Omar said construction was progressing rapidly and that one block was expected to become operational this year. We have been assured that when I had earlier gone there to review the construction, one block would become operational this year, where OPD and some other treatments would begin, he said. We hope they will stick to that commitment, he added. On the proposed law university, Omar said discussions were still underway over its location but indicated that the government was close to completing the necessary paperwork. Discussions are underway about where the law university will be established, but I think the file is almost ready, he said. We will have to give further approval, but it will happen. Omar also said one or two private universities could soon begin setting up operations in Jammu and Kashmir. I have heard that one or two private universities are ready to come here, he said, adding that the government could soon announce their arrival and witness the laying of their foundation stones. He said the private universities had been waiting for the government to complete the regulatory process. The Act was passed during the Budget Session. After that, we were preparing the rules. The rules have been completed and released. Now private universities will start coming in, Omar said.

Foreign dignitaries J&K visits are curated after 2019: Mehbooba Mufti

Srinagar, Aug 20: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday criticised the manner in which foreign dignitaries visit Jammu and Kashmir, saying their tours have become curated since 2019 and do not provide them an opportunity to hear different sections of society. Her remarks came a day after US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor visited Srinagar, met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and described Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India. Gor also indicated that the US would review its travel advisory for J&K and consider greater economic engagement with the region. This is not the first time that an ambassador, particularly from the United States, has come to Jammu and Kashmir, Mufti said. The difference is that before 2019, whenever ambassadors came here, they would meet people from every section of society. She said representatives from tourism, trade, travel and other sections of society were previously consulted by foreign dignitaries before they returned. But after 2019, the tours of these foreign dignitaries are curated. They come, meet the Chief Minister, meet the Governor, go for a shikara ride and leave, she said. Mufti agreed with Abdullahs position that the problems of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be resolved by Washington. I agree with Omar Sahib that the issues of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be resolved by America. New Delhi will have to resolve them, she said. However, she criticised the Chief Minister for not using the ambassadors visit to raise concerns of the people of J&K. I expected Omar Sahib at least to tell the ambassador from America about the concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, she said, referring particularly to US military action in Iran and its impact on Muslim countries. Mufti also said Abdullah should have raised issues within Jammu and Kashmir that, in her view, require the intervention of New Delhi. She referred to alleged harassment during security operations in Pulwama and said, We have thousands of our people in jails. Every day people are removed from jobs. Raids are conducted every day. Properties are attached and there is a kind of suffocation in Jammu and Kashmir. These are issues that Omar Sahib can talk about. There is no need to talk to Washington about these, she said. Mufti also invoked the tenure of her father, former Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, saying his government had pursued dialogue and reconciliation with different stakeholders. When Mufti Sahib persuaded the Vajpayee government, a process of reconciliation was started. There was dialogue here. There was dialogue with every section. There was also dialogue with Pakistan. Routes were opened, she said. She urged Abdullah to similarly persuade New Delhi to address issues facing the people of Jammu and Kashmir. On Gors indication that the US would review its travel advisory for J&K and increase economic engagement, Mufti said the move could benefit the region if it focused on employment-generating sectors. I hope they will review it. And he said that we will engage more economically with Jammu and Kashmir, she said. If they engage here in horticulture and handicrafts, which can create jobs and benefit us economically, I think that needs to be looked at, she added. Gors description of J&K as an important part of India also drew a sharp response from Mufti. I don't think we need to take America so seriously, she said. Wherever America has intervened in the world, it has brought destruction, from Vietnam to Iran, she said, adding that the US was not in a position to certify Indias position on Jammu and Kashmir. They are not our masters that they have to give us a certificate before anything can be said, Mufti said.

Ladakh LG calls on PM

New Delhi, Aug 20: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Thursday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed the progress of key developmental initiatives and infrastructure projects as well as the implementation of central welfare schemes in the Union Territory. In a message on X, Saxena said he was extremely grateful to the prime minister for his vision, constant guidance and support for the inclusive and sustainable development of Ladakh. It was indeed an honour to call on Honble Prime Minister, Shri @narendramodi ji and brief him on the progress of key developmental initiatives, infrastructure projects and the implementation of central welfare schemes in UT of Ladakh, Saxena said.

US cannot resolve J&K issues, but Omar should have raised peoples concerns: Mehbooba

Adhaar App achieves milestone, crosses 5 crore downloads

Srinagar, Aug 20: The Aadhaar App has crossed the significant milestone of 50 million (5 crore) downloads, reflecting the growing adoption of convenient and digital-first Aadhaar services among residents. The milestone marks a significant expansion of the Aadhaar App's role as a digital interface between residents and UIDAI, enabling Aadhaar number holders to access a growing range of services from their smartphones, including mobile number update, address update, email update, biometric lock/unlock and e-Aadhaar download. The App has seen strong and sustained usage since its launch. While more than 60 lakh people updated their mobile number using the Aadhaar app, over 15 lakh address updates and more than 23 lakh email updates were done using the Aadhaar app. The growing adoption of these services reflects the increasing preference among residents for availing Aadhaar-related services digitally, without the need to visit an Aadhaar centre. The Aadhaar App is designed around the principle of Show, Share and Verify, giving Aadhaar number holders greater control over how their Aadhaar information is used while enabling convenient identity verification. Alongside the growth of the Aadhaar App, UIDAI continues to expand the ecosystem for secure and convenient offline verification. UIDAI has now onboarded more than 200 entities as Offline Verification Seeking Entities (OVSEs), since its roll out in January. This milestone marks a major advancement in enabling secure, consent-based, and paperless verification through Aadhaar offline mechanism -- empowering both service providers and people, alike. The onboarding of these OVSE partners reflects growing confidence in Aadhaar-enabled, privacy-first digital verification frameworks that prioritise user control while ensuring ease of access. By leveraging Aadhaar Offline Verification methods such as QR code-based verification and secure digitally signed documents, these entities will now be able to verify identity information without requiring real-time connectivity to UIDAIs central database. This approach brings a strong resident-centric focus, ensuring that Aadhaar number holders can share only the minimum necessary data, thereby enhancing privacy. This simplified verification journey builds trust through transparent and consent-driven interactions. The initiatives are aligned with the Government's Digital India vision and the broader objective of improving ease of living through secure, accessible and technology-enabled public services.

Search operation in J-K's Kathua after suspicious movement

Jammu, Aug 20: Security forces launched a search operation in the bordering areas of Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district on Thursday following reports of suspicious movement, officials said. The operation was launched in forest areas near the Udhampur-Kathua border in Billawar forests. According to locals, unidentified persons allegedly knocked on the door of a house in a village in the Billawar belt late Wednesday night. The family did not open the door but found next day that food the kept in their house had gone missing, leading to suspicion that someone had entered the premises. Kathua Superintendent of Police, Operations, Pritpal Singh said such routine operations are carried out to maintain vigil in the border areas. To maintain alertness, these routine operations are carried out. Regarding the suspicious activity reported, yes, this is a bordering area, so keeping that in mind, we are carrying out this operation, Singh said.

Khoja Digar Prayers Held at Naqshband Sahab Shrine in Srinagar

Congress decision to stick to 2 paras of Vande Mataram 'appeasement,' defiance of law, says Amit Shah

Chennai, Aug 20: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday launched a scathing attack against the Congress party saying the party's decision to sing only two stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' was not only anti-national but also an open defiance of law and appeasement eyeing vote bank. Referring to the Congress Working Committee's decision to follow only two paras of the national song, instead of its full rendition, Shah traced the history of partition and underlined the consequences suffered by the nation following the truncation of Vande Mataram. In a statement posted on 'X,' the Union Home Minister alleged: In 1937, for the sake of appeasement, it was the Congress itself that fragmented Vande Mataram into two parts. From there, the two-nation theory gained strength, leading to the partition of the country. On the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, the Modi government corrected this historic mistake and gave the full song legal form. But under Rahul Gandhis leadership, the Congress is once again treading the path of appeasement for the sake of its vote bank, Shah charged. The mistake of fragmenting Vande Mataram has happened once, and the nation has already suffered its consequences, he alleged. This is an appeal to the countrymen to unite and raise their voices against this appeasement by the Congress, he added. The CWC on Wednesday decided to abide by the 1937 resolution of its highest decision-making body on Vande Mataram, saying only two stanzas of the national song would be sung at all party events henceforth. BJP president Nitin Nabin has slammed the Congress alleging the opposition party has become the ew Muslim League for votes.

CISF detects Rs 68.53 lakh unaccounted cash at Delhi Airport

Delhi, Aug 20: In a significant detection at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, CISF personnel deployed at Random X-BIS, ASG Delhi, detected cash amounting to 68,53,500 from two passengers based on behavioural observation and subsequent CCTV analysis. Acting on suspicion, CISF personnel identified a passenger for detailed screening. During CCTV review, another passenger accompanying him was also identified. Both passengers were travelling to Guwahati and onward to Agartala. During detailed screening of their baggage, a total of 68.53 lakh in cash was detected from both passengers. The passengers, along with the detected cash, baggage and relevant travel documents, were handed over to the Income Tax officials for further necessary action. The detection once again highlights the vigilance, behavioural observation skills and alertness of CISF personnel in maintaining security at the nations busiest airport.

Shah Faesals central deputation extended by two years till September 2028

New Delhi, Aug 20: The Centre has extended the central deputation tenure of IAS officer Shah Faesal, currently serving as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, by another two years, according to an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). The extension has been approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and will remain effective beyond September 18, 2026, up to September 18, 2028, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Faesal, a 2010-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, has been on central deputation since September 19, 2022. He was posted as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Culture under the Central Staffing Scheme. The DoPT memorandum, dated August 19, 2026, said the extension was approved on the proposal of the Ministry of Culture. Faesal had joined the Indian Administrative Service in 2010 and served in Jammu and Kashmir before moving to the Centre on deputation.

J&K has always been integral to India: Tariq Karra on US envoys remarks

Srinagar, Aug 20 : Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Karra on Thursday rejected US Ambassador Sergio Gors remarks describing Jammu and Kashmir as an important part of India, saying the region has always been an integral part of the country and does not need to be told about its strategic importance. Reacting to Gors remarks, Karra said, I don't know why should he have said this. I mean Jammu and Kashmir has been integral part of India, is integral and it will remain integral. He said the significance being attached to Jammu and Kashmir by the US envoy reflected what he described as the failure of the present dispensation. What importance he is trying to give to Jammu and Kashmir, I think that is the failure of the present dispensation, Karra said. The Congress leader also criticised what he described as increasing third-party intervention in Indias affairs, saying the country had traditionally opposed such involvement after the 1971 war and the Shimla Agreement. India has never, especially after 1971, this Shimla Agreement, after that none of the countries have to have third-party intervention, he said. But it is only during this regime, BJP's regime, that we are seeing third-party interventions. Many decisions are being forced upon us, Karra added. He alleged that issues without international ramifications were also being subjected to external intervention. Many such things which have no international ramifications, like taxation and other things, are being imposed upon us. Today India, under such intervention, seems to be going back to the colonial style of functioning, he said. Karra said Jammu and Kashmir was strategically important because of its geographical location and its proximity to several countries. As far as the Congress party is concerned, for us, of course, Jammu and Kashmir is an important state in India because of the strategic position, geographical strategic position, he said. So we don't need to know this thing as if it is for the first time that we have been told that we are important. Yes, strategically we have always been important, he added. Referring to the regions geopolitical location, Karra said, We have many countries around us and a couple of them very hostile. He also cautioned against attempts to use Jammu and Kashmir as a pretext for pursuing broader foreign-policy objectives. If anyone has this thing in mind that they would fix their guns on our shoulders under different pretexts, that is not acceptable to us as far as our foreign policy is concerned, Karra said. Asked about Pakistan lodging an official complaint over Gors remarks, Karra said he did not have the mandate to comment on the matter as state Congress president. Well, that is their internal matter. As Congress president of a state, I don't have mandate for speaking on that, he said. However, he reiterated the Congress position on Jammu and Kashmir.I can say that Congress stand is stated that Jammu and Kashmir is an important place, yes, strategically, and it has remained integral part of India. It is integral part of India and it shall remain to be integral part of India, Karra said.

Russian missile barrage kills at least 6 in Kyiv, injures 33

Kyiv, Aug 20: A Russian missile barrage overnight Thursday killed at least six people in Kyiv as explosions echoed across the capital throughout the night, local authorities said. At least 33 people were wounded in the attack, according to Ukraine's Emergency Service. The air raid alert remained active into the early morning hours Thursday. The strikes hit 12 locations across Kyiv's Darnytskyi, Sviatoshynskyi and Solomianskyi districts, damaging residential buildings, a medical facility and an educational institution. Emergency crews pulled people trapped under the rubble. Russia has intensified ballistic missile attacks on the capital to constrain Kyiv's air defence stocks. Kyiv has limited systems capable of intercepting ballistic threats, while supplies of missiles for its US-made Patriot air defence systems remain chronically constrained. US President Donald Trump had authorised Ukraine to obtain licenses to produce Patriot air-defence systems, but later reversed that decision. Ukraine, meanwhile, has intensified its own campaign of long-range strikes against weapons depots, military facilities and other strategic targets deep inside Russian territory, seeking to degrade Moscow's ability to sustain its attacks on Ukrainian cities. In Solomianskyi district, the top two floors of a nine-story residential building were destroyed and fires broke out on other floors. People were also trapped in two residential buildings and a school shelter.

District collectors in six border states, J-K and Ladakh empowered to grant citizenship

New Delhi, Aug 20: The Union home ministry on Wednesday authorised district collectors in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam and Tripura (except tribal areas), and Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to grant naturalised citizenship to fit and proper applicants ordinarily residing in these regions. The government notified the Citizenship (Third Amendment) Rules 2026 on Wednesday, granting district collectors in these states and UTs the authority to process citizenship-seeking applications for egistration or naturalisation. . The district collectors in these states will replace the Empowered Committees and Designated Officers that previously held these powers. In the gazette notification, the Home Ministry has authorised district collectors in these areas to eceive, scrutinise, and dispose of such applications in accordance with the laid-down parameters. The new rules apply to citizenship-seeking applicants ordinarily residing in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, as well as the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. In Assam and Tripura, the rules specifically exclude tribal areas. The new rules designate the district collector as the competent authority to receive requests for registration or naturalisation electronically. The government has directed that all applications currently pending with those committees or District Level Committees in the specified regions be immediately transferred to the relevant collector. Upon submission, the system will generate an automated acknowledgement. The collector will then verify all submitted documents and conduct any inquiries necessary to determine the applicant's suitability. The Collector shall verify the documents submitted by the applicant, along with the application, conduct such enquiry as he considers necessary for ascertaining the suitability of the applicant, administer the oath of allegiance as specified in the Second Schedule to the Act and satisfy himself regarding the eligibility of the applicant under section 6B, the notification said. If the collector is satisfied that an applicant is a fit and proper person, they are authorised to grant Indian citizenship directly. As part of the final steps, the collector must administer the oath of allegiance as prescribed by the Act. However, the new rules maintain strict requirements for applicants to appear in person. In case an applicant fails to appear in person to subscribe the application and take the oath of allegiance despite giving reasonable opportunities, the Collector shall reject the application, said the notified rules. The government has also rescinded previous orders except as respects things done or omitted to be done before such rescission.

PM Modi pays tribute to ex-pm Rajiv Gandhi on birth anniversary

New Delhi, Aug 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid homage to former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary. Gandhi was born on August 20, 1944 and died on May 21, 1991. On the occasion of his birth anniversary, paying homage to former Prime Minister of India, Shri Rajiv Gandhi, Modi said in a post on 'X'. Gandhi was the prime minister of India from October 31, 1984 to December 2, 1989.

Delhi: Unauthorised structures outside Pakistan High Commission removed

New Delhi, Aug 20: Authorities have removed structures and queue-management barriers erected outside of the Pakistan High Commission here in New Delhi, official sources said on Thursday. The structures, including queue liners installed near the visa section of the Pakistani commission, were located on a lane outside the compound's approved boundary and were removed as part of the action, they said. The development comes days after Pakistan removed security barricades and parking poles placed outside the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.

9 die in Kolkata hotel fire; Bengal minister says Bangladeshis among those dead

At least nine people, including a four-year-old child, died and six were injured in an early Wednesday fire at a dingy five-storey building on Mirza Galib Street in central Kolkata that housed several hotels, police said. Five fire tenders were pressed into service to douse the blaze that erupted around 1.45 am. Police and Disaster Management Department personnel reached the spot for the rescue operation. According to a senior official, 80 people have been rescued from the five-storey building. Speaking to PTI, Fire Department Minister Kaushik Chowdhury said the identities of those killed are yet to be established. The deceased include both Indians and Bangladeshi nationals, he said after visiting the site. We are trying to establish their identities. The situation inside this building is very bad. There are several hotels inside this building. I am shocked to see what was going on here, Chowdhury said. Asked about the cause of the fire, the minister said that it could be because of a short circuit. But a forensic examination would reveal what led to the blaze, he said.. The building management did not comply with basic safety and construction norms. It is alleged that there were several irregularities in the functioning of the hotel, the minister added. The injured have been taken to a nearby hospital. Dense smoke made it difficult for firefighters to climb the staircase and reach the upper floors. While nine people have died, more deaths are feared, a police officer told PTI. Our priority is to rescue those trapped and determine the reasons for the fire. The flames have been doused, but the building is very, very hot. The cooling process is underway, he added. West Bengal Fire Department headquarters is located close to the hotel building.. Another police officer said the building owner is currently absconding. A case is being registered at the New Market police station, with police initiating proceedings against the owner, he said, adding that police have begun raids at the owners residence as part of efforts to trace him. An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances that led to the fire and whether safety regulations were violated. According to the Chief Ministers Office, CM Suvendu Adhikari is likely to visit the site of the fire.

CM Yogi Adityanath invites Japanese firms to make UP their Second Industrial Home

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday invited Japanese companies to make the state their Second Industrial Home, offering a combination of a large young workforce, infrastructure, market and improving business environment. Addressing the inaugural session of the Uttar Pradesh-Japan Investment Meet 2026 in New Delhi, Adityanath said the partnership between India and Japan should go beyond setting up manufacturing units and focus on technology development, research and development, skill centres and global supply chains. Drawing a comparison between the two sides, the Chief Minister said Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, brings decades of industrial experience, precision, quality, technology and manufacturing excellence, while Uttar Pradesh, the Land of the Suryavansh, offers scale, skills, a large market, infrastructure and a young workforce. India-Japan partnership is a partnership of shared growth, shared technology and shared prosperity, Adityanath said, adding that Uttar Pradesh now accounts for 55 per cent of the countrys mobile phone production and nearly 60 per cent of electronic component manufacturing. He said the state had emerged among Indias top three economies and was moving towards its goal of becoming a $1-trillion economy. Over the past nine years, he said, Uttar Pradesh had tripled its budget, gross state domestic product and per capita income, while womens workforce participation had increased more than threefold. CM Yogi highlighted Uttar Pradeshs expanding industrial and logistics infrastructure, including 17 airports, metro networks in seven cities, two Dedicated Freight Corridors, industrial and logistics corridors and Indias first inland waterway. The state, he said, has more than 75,000 acres of dedicated industrial land, 27 industrial manufacturing and logistics clusters and 36 sector-specific policies covering areas such as IT, green hydrogen, solar power, food processing and defence manufacturing. He said Uttar Pradesh had also emerged as a hub for artificial intelligence, semiconductors, data centres, robotics, electric vehicles, agritech, fintech, deeptech and defence manufacturing. The Chief Minister said a Japan City was being developed near Noida International Airport, with semiconductor, electronics and data-centre clusters coming up in the vicinity. He also highlighted the states Plug and Play Industrial Sheds scheme and the development of Noida International Airport as a cargo, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and logistics hub. CM Yogi said the states Nivesh 3.0 platform had brought various government services under a single system, allowing investors to track applications online and speeding up approvals. Calling quality and long-term commitment the major strengths of Japanese industry, CM Yogi said Uttar Pradesh wanted to create a long-term Japanese industrial ecosystem rather than attract individual factories. We want Japanese companies to not only set up factories here, but also build technology, R&D, skill centres and global supply chains, he said. He proposed combining Japanese manufacturing practices such as Kaizen, 5S, lean manufacturing, robotics, automation and precision engineering with the states young workforce to create a new skills ecosystem. The Chief Minister also highlighted cooperation with Japans Yamanashi Prefecture in areas including green hydrogen, renewable energy and clean technology. He said two Green Hydrogen Centres of Excellence were being established through IIT Kanpur, HBTU Kanpur, IIT-BHU and MMMUT Gorakhpur, with 50 crore sanctioned for each centre. He said the objective was to take the partnership beyond research towards pilot projects, commercial applications and production. He said the proposed tripartite MoU between JETRO, Invest UP and CII would provide a stronger institutional framework for attracting Japanese investment and strengthening business-to-business and government-to-business partnerships. The next chapter of this partnership would take shape in factories, be born through innovation in laboratories, develop talent in universities, and reach the world through global supply chains, CM Yogi said. The event was attended by Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki, Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna and other state ministers, JETRO officials and industry leaders.

Spring silk cocoon auction begins in Srinagar with focus on fair prices for growers

The Spring Silk Cocoon Auction Market for Kashmir commenced today at the Sericulture Complex, Srinagar. The market was inaugurated by Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, Director Sericulture, in the presence of departmental officers, cocoon growers from various districts of Kashmir Division and buyers from within and outside the Union Territory. The Cocoon Auction Market has been organised with the objective of ensuring fair and remunerative prices to cocoon growers through a transparent and competitive bidding process. The initiative is part of the Departments continued efforts to strengthen the sericulture sector and improve the economic well-being of silkworm rearers. Speaking on the occasion, the Director reiterated the Departments commitment to providing adequate market facilities to cocoon growers and ensuring better returns for their produce. He also highlighted the focus on expanding the infrastructure base by establishing more Silkworm Reeling Units across J&K to promote local silk production. Our aim is to ensure that the cocoon produce generated in Jammu & Kashmir is largely consumed within the Union Territory itself. This will not only boost the local silk industry but also help our farmers realize better returns for their produce, Bhat said. The auction market is expected to contribute significantly towards enhancing the income of cocoon growers by facilitating direct interaction between sellers and buyers, promoting competitive bidding and ensuring transparent price discovery. The Department has put in place arrangements for the smooth conduct of the auction, including proper space allocation, weighing and quality assessment facilities. Cocoon growers and buyers actively participated in the auction process. The growers appreciated the arrangements and transparent mechanism adopted by the Department, expressing hope for better returns in view of the improved quality and quantity of cocoons produced across Kashmir Division. The buyers also appreciated the quality of cocoons available at the market, noting improvement in both quality and quantum compared to previous years. The successful commencement of the Cocoon Auction Market marks another significant step towards empowering cocoon growers, strengthening the local silk value chain and revitalizing the silk industry in Jammu & Kashmir.

J&K Bank organises Mission YUVA review-cum-felicitation meet

J&K Bank organised a review-cum-felicitation meet at its divisional office Kashmir to recognise outstanding performers and review the progress achieved under Mission YUVA across the Kashmir Division. Director Employment and Director, Mission YUVA, Harvinder Singh (IAS) chaired the meeting in the presence of Banks Divisional Head (Kashmir) Arshad Qadri, Zonal Heads of Anantnag, Baramulla, Budgam, Pulwama and Srinagar, Cluster Heads of Srinagar, Kulgam and Anantnag-II besides officials from various branches across the Division also attended the meeting. The review focused on sustaining the momentum through stronger field-level coordination, faster processing of eligible cases and continued support to beneficiaries. During the event, notable performers from across the Kashmir Division were felicitated for their outstanding contribution to the implementation of Mission YUVA. Appreciating the Banks contribution as the principal financial partner in Mission YUVA, Mission Director Harvinder Singh acknowledged the coordinated efforts of the Banks divisional, zonal, cluster and branch-level functionaries in achieving significant milestones under the programme. Mission YUVA seeks to translate the aspirations of our youth into sustainable enterprises and meaningful livelihoods. As its principal financial partner, J&K Bank has played a vital role in taking the programme to the grassroots through timely financial support, sustained handholding, and close coordination with the implementing agencies. The commitment demonstrated by the Banks field teams gives us confidence that Mission YUVA will continue to generate enduring employment opportunities across Jammu and Kashmir, he added. Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Head (Kashmir) Arshad Qadri expressed gratitude to the Mission Director for chairing the meeting and guiding the Banks functionaries. He said, For J&K Bank, Mission YUVA is not merely a financing programme but an opportunity to nurture a new generation of confident and capable entrepreneurs. Our teams across Kashmir remain fully committed to supporting eligible youth from identification and appraisal to disbursement and post-finance handholding, so that their ideas are transformed into sustainable ventures. We value the recognition accorded to our achievers today. It will further motivate our teams to deepen outreach, improve conversions, and contribute meaningfully towards the employment and entrepreneurial objectives of the programme, he added. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Zonal Head Srinagar.

KUs E-YUVA centre holds workshop on transforming scientific ideas into successful ventures

The BIRAC E-YUVA Centre at the Department of Biotechnology, University of Kashmir (KU), organised a one-day national workshop on Beyond Laboratory: Transforming Scientific Ideas into Successful Ventures at the Main Campus. The workshop aimed to familiarise college students, graduates and aspiring innovators with the fundamentals of scientific entrepreneurship and equip them with the knowledge and skills required to translate laboratory research and scientific ideas into viable, market-oriented ventures. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor, KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, emphasized the importance of creating stronger linkages between scientific research, innovation and entrepreneurship. Scientific knowledge must not remain confined to laboratories; it should be translated into solutions that address real-world challenges. By nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset among our young students and researchers, we can create an ecosystem where innovative ideas are turned into meaningful ventures and contribute to the development of society, she said. Coordinator, BIRAC E-YUVA Centre, KU, Dr. Asif Amin, provided an overview of the Centre and its initiatives for promoting student-led innovation and entrepreneurship in biotechnology and life sciences. Earlier, Head, Department of Biotechnology, KU, Prof. Ehtisham-ul-Haq, in his welcome address, emphasised the need to expose students and young graduates to opportunities beyond conventional academic and research pathways. The workshop featured four technical sessions focusing on the entrepreneurship ecosystem, student-to-startup transition, life-science enterprise development, vision and business-model development, and the skills required to take scientific ideas beyond the laboratory. The sessions were led by Dr. Bhavisha Wala, Lead, Entrepreneurship Advancement Programs, C-CAMP, Bengaluru, and Dr. Nadeem Shabir, Faculty and Innovator at SKUAST-K. The interactive sessions provided participants with practical exposure to innovation and entrepreneurship, enabling them to understand the process of developing scientific ideas into solutions with social and commercial potential. The E-YUVA Centre was established with the support of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) and commenced its operations in 2025 with the objective of nurturing young innovators, encouraging problem-solving and translating scientific ideas into viable solutions. It currently hosts five E-YUVA fellowship teams comprising 19 fellows from various colleges and universities across Kashmir and Ladakh, providing them mentorship, research support and exposure to the wider innovation ecosystem. The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Asif Amin, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Chief Coordinator, BIRAC E-YUVA Centre, KU, Prof. Mahboob-ul-Hussain.

Rahul Sahai hails religious tourism push

Chairman, Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu chapter Rahul Sahai on Wednesday, while lauding religious tourism push by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, batted for Nano Global Capability Centres (Nano GCCs) and MSME-led growth in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised that better infrastructure, easier finance, digital adoption, faster approvals and stronger market linkages could enable J&Ks MSMEs to play a much larger role in Indias growth story. Sahai was addressing the illustrious gathering during the second edition of ICC MSME Conclave 2026, organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu Chapter, on the theme Shaping the future of MSMEs, Religious Tourism, Nano GCCs and Technology-Led Growth at Regale Park, Jammu on Wednesday evening. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha delivered keynote address at the conclave which was also attended by Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce, J&K; Vikramaditya Singh, Trustee, Dharmarth Trust; Rakesh Sinha, CEO, Quintes Global; and Debmalya Banerjee, Regional Director, ICC, besides senior government officials, industry leaders, representatives of financial institutions, trade and industry associations and other distinguished guests. Welcoming the gathering, Rahul Sahai expressed heartfelt gratitude to LG Sinha for attending the conclave. Sahai said that under the LGs leadership, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed remarkable progress in peace, infrastructure, tourism, industrial development and religious tourism, creating renewed confidence among entrepreneurs, investors and citizens. He particularly appreciated the transformation taking place in religious and pilgrimage tourism. Sahai said, Jammu has always been known as the City of Temples, but the initiatives undertaken in recent years have established this identity in its true sense. He highlighted the development of infrastructure for the Tawi Aarti, saying that it provided Jammu with a new spiritual and cultural attraction and was gradually emerging on the lines of the famous Ganga Aartis of Varanasi and Haridwar. He also referred to the growing popularity of the Aarti at Raghunath Ji temple, which was adding vibrancy to the spiritual atmosphere of Jammus old city. Sahai also appreciated the exceptional work undertaken for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, particularly improved infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, sanitation, security and coordinated arrangements for devotees. He said the proposed museum at Katra would further enrich the pilgrim experience by showcasing the spiritual, cultural and historical heritage of the region. Referring to Jammus enormous pilgrimage potential, he highlighted Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, Shiv Khori, Shri Raghunath Ji Temple, Bawe Wali Mata, Sudh Mahadev, Mantalai, Purmandal-Utterbehni, Machail Mata and Sukrala Mata, among several sacred destinations. He advocated stronger infrastructure and integrated pilgrimage circuits to position Jammu among Indias foremost religious-tourism destinations. Sahai stressed that religious tourism was also a major economic activity, supporting thousands of MSMEs including hotels, restaurants, transporters, tour operators, traders, artisans and local service providers. He said efforts should be made to encourage pilgrims to extend their stay and experience Jammus temples, heritage, culture, cuisine and natural beauty. He also appreciated the revival of religious and spiritual activities in Kashmir, including the successful organisation of the Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela, improved arrangements at Shankaracharya temple and Zeashta Devi Temple, and revival of the historic Sharda Temple at Teetwal. Sahai said the renewed celebration of traditional pujas, festivals and yatras at ancient temples across the Valley was helping preserve Kashmirs spiritual heritage while strengthening peace, cultural harmony and religious tourism. Thanking the Lieutenant Governor for giving religious tourism a new direction, Sahai requested the entire gathering to give a standing ovation to him (LG Sinha) for his remarkable contribution towards the development and promotion of religious tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. Turning to the economic agenda of the conclave, Sahai said MSMEs were the backbone of the economy, creating employment, encouraging entrepreneurship and ensuring inclusive development. Highlighting a new opportunity for J&K, Sahai said Nano Global Capability Centres (Nano GCCs) could create opportunities for educated youth, technology professionals and young entrepreneurs. He said Jammu possessed the talent and potential to emerge as a destination for technology-enabled services, innovation and global business operations. The conclave featured a dedicated session titled Jammu: The Gateway of Faith Unlocking the Potential of Religious & Pilgrimage Tourism, focusing on integrated pilgrimage circuits, infrastructure and connectivity, AI and digital transformation, spiritual and heritage tourism, and encouraging pilgrims to stay longer in Jammu. Another major session, Accelerating Industrial & MSME Growth in J&K: Infrastructure, Finance & Investment, Innovation & Exports, deliberated on logistics and warehousing, green manufacturing, private industrial estates, digital finance, institutional credit, TReDS, Ease of Doing Business, technology-led MSME growth, exports and international value chains. The sessions brought together experts and representatives from Industries and Commerce, Railways, ACTL, J&K Bank, SIDBI, ECGC, Kotak Mahindra Bank, academia, religious and cultural organisations and the tourism sector, providing a platform for practical recommendations and meaningful collaborations. Concluding his welcome address, Rahul Sahai reaffirmed that ICC Jammu remained committed to acting as a bridge between the government, industry, financial institutions and entrepreneurs and called for collective efforts to create an ecosystem where J&Ks MSMEs could grow, innovate and compete globally.

MSMEs are true builders of Indias economic resilience: LG Manoj Sinha

The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha attended the 2nd edition of the ICC MSME Conclave 2026 in Jammu earlier today. He delivered a keynote address at the Conclave, highlighting the transformative role of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the rise of Nano Global Capability Centres (GCCs), and the centrality of technology-led growth in shaping Indias economic future. The Lieutenant Governor underscored that Indias economy stands at a defining crossroads where agility, innovation, and technology are rewriting the rules of enterprise. He said the theme of the conclave- Shaping the Future of MSMEs, Nano GCCs & Technology-led Growth - is timely and visionary. The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed that MSMEs are powering employment, driving exports, and nurturing entrepreneurship across the nation. MSMEs are contributing 31.3% to GDP and nearly half of Indias exports. They are also the second-largest provider of employment after agriculture. MSMEs are the heartbeat of our economy and the true builders of Indias resilience and self-reliance, the Lieutenant Governor stated. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the emergence of Nano Global Capability Centres (GCCs), where small, specialized teams deliver high-value capabilities once reserved for large corporations. I strongly believe that this is democratization in its truest sense. It really means that a mid-sized enterprise in a tier-two city can now build, own, and scale world-class technology capability on its own terms. And behind all of this is technology as the very engine of growth. Artificial intelligence, automation and digital infrastructure are compressing timelines, lowering barriers, and opening doors that were once closed to all but the largest players. This gives cities like Jammu, Srinagar a new sense of confidence and I believe todays conclave is more than just fire-side chat. It is a call to action. A call to reimagine what our MSMEs can become and to embrace the nano GCC model as a genuine pathway to global relevance. It is a call to place technology at the very heart of Indias next chapter of inclusive growth, the Lieutenant Governor said. He said the Union Territory of Jammu Kashmir is a vibrant example of all-round transformation in the country. Since 2021, investments worth Rs. 5,824 crore in FY 202526 alone marked a 13-fold increase compared to pre-2021 averages. Over four years, investments exceeded those made in the preceding 70 years. Start-ups rose from 69 in 2020 to 1,305 in FY 202526, while Udyam registrations surged from 24,000 in 2021 to 6.16 lakh this year. The Lieutenant Governor also outlined four pressing challenges for MSMEs including affordable credit, technology upgradation, and supply-chain integration to ensure market access and brand-building for small entrepreneurs. He also called for administrative reforms, wherever required to eliminate the red tape to create an enabling environment. The Lieutenant Governor called for a forward-looking roadmap with sustainable trade that will encourage MSMEs to adopt green technologies and renewable energy. He also stressed on formalisation of micro industries to Expand institutional credit access. The Lieutenant Governor asked the participants to focus on educationindustry partnerships and establishment of incubation centres and design studios within industrial clusters. The fourth objective is to strengthen export competitiveness, and I believe that this opportunity is especially significant for Jammu Kashmir. Our climate and distinctive cultural and traditional production chains provide us with an exceptional position in the export sector. Therefore, initiatives such as One District, One Export Hub need to be promoted on a large scale, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that Indias economic progress cannot be complete without acknowledging the perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit of MSMEs. Our bright future rests upon the aspirations of small and medium businesses. Let us build an ecosystem that is robust, globally competitive, environmentally conscious, and inclusive. On the strong foundation of MSMEs, we must develop an economy, in which every region, every section, and every talent in Jammu Kashmir finds opportunities to advance, and where young people do not merely seek jobs but create employment, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also spoke on the challenges that the country is facing today. He called upon the industry leaders and all the key stakeholders to make their significant contribution in building a terror-free, corruption-free, merit based and prosperous society. There is a lot of discussion in the country regarding temple offerings. A respected member of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board suggested in a meeting that the manual counting process should be stopped. So, two Cash Recycler Machines (CRM) have been installed there, and the remaining CRMs will be installed in 15 days. The human interface itself has been eliminated. No employee of the Shrine Board or the bank will have any direct involvement in it, he said.

Sajad Lone questions political handling of local issues

Peoples Conference chairman and Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) Handwara Sajad Gani Lone Wednesday raised questions the manner in which local issues are being raised at higher forums. He said that matters falling within the jurisdiction of an MLA should not be taken to Parliament merely for political publicity. Lone also rejected rumours that he had boycotted the Independence Day celebrations on August 15. My absence was due to personal work and had nothing to do with any boycott, he said. Lone was speaking to reporters after inaugurating a 7-bed Dialysis Centre at Associated District Hospital GMC Handwara. PC Chief said that this facility will provide significant relief to kidney patients from Handwara and adjoining areas, who earlier had to travel to Srinagar for regular treatment. The need for a dialysis facility was earlier discussed with the former Deputy Commissioner Kupwara eight months ago. Around Rs 30 to Rs 40 lakh was provided through the district administration, while ` 32 lakh was contributed from his Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for the said project, he said. Lone flagged the shortage of trained manpower at GMC Handwara, saying that posts for dialysis technicians had not yet been formally created and doctors were also not available. I urge health authorities to address the staffing issue immediately because patients should not suffer because of administrative delays, he added. Lone also demanded modern diagnostic and cardiac facilities at GMC Handwara. The hospital still lacks Cath Lab and an MRI machine due to which patients from across the district suffer badly. Cath Lab would help reduce referrals for cardiac procedures and enable patients to receive treatment closer to home, he said. On the development of GMC Handwara, Lone expressed concern over delays, saying the Central Government had sanctioned more than Rs 375 crore for the project over a decade ago, but the funds had not been utilised as expected. Lone attributed the slow progress to bureaucratic delays and political issues, particularly concerning land allocation and basic infrastructure. The MLA also raised concerns over the online OPD ticketing system, saying it was creating difficulties for rural residents, particularly those unfamiliar with digital services. He said he would take up the issue with hospital authorities. On political criticism and corruption allegations, Lone said independent investigations by agencies such as the CBI and ACB should be allowed to take their course. He questioned the use of public issues for political publicity and urged political representatives to focus on resolving problems within their respective jurisdictions. Lone called for a more serious approach to governance and urged the authorities to complete pending projects and fill critical staff vacancies at GMC Handwara to ensure that the available infrastructure benefits the people.

Distressed Kashmiri students in MP helped out: JKSA

Two Kashmiri students studying in Bhopal were allegedly subjected to harassment, intimidation and pressure to vacate their accommodation by fringe elements, as per a JKSA statement. The matter has since been addressed and brought under control following the timely intervention of the Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) and Madhya Pradesh Police, it said. The students, who are pursuing pharmacy studies in Bhopal under the Prime Ministers Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS), approached JKSA after allegedly facing pressure from certain local residents and individuals who, according to their representation, objected to their presence in the area. The alleged pressure was also reportedly extended to their landlord. The students alleged that the landlord was warned to evict them and that, if they were not removed, the individuals involved could forcibly enter the premises and throw the students out. Concerned over the students safety and security, JKSA National Convenor Nasir Khuehami raised the matter with Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police Kailash Makwana and sought his immediate intervention. DGP Makwana took strong note of the matter and assured JKSA that no individual would be permitted to take the law into their own hands or harass, intimidate or threaten Kashmiri students. He directed Bhopal Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar to intervene promptly and ensure the safety, security and well-being of the students. Following the DGPs intervention, a police team led by ACP concerned, along with Nishatpura SHO Manoj Patwa, visited the students at their residence, met them and heard their concerns. The students were assured of complete safety and security. Police also questioned individuals allegedly involved in threatening, intimidating or pressuring the students and called them to the police station for further inquiry. Residents of the concerned society were counselled regarding the need to maintain peace, communal harmony and non-discrimination and were cautioned against indulging in any discriminatory or intimidating conduct. Khuehami said action is being also initiated against fringe elements allegedly found responsible for creating pressure, fear or intimidation, and that legal proceedings would follow against anyone found to have violated the law. He said the police intervention has helped resolve the immediate situation and restore confidence among the students. The matter has now been brought under control following the prompt intervention of DGP Kailash Makwana and the Bhopal Police. The students have been assured that they will be able to live peacefully, move around freely, walk in the area, meet people, attend college and carry out their day-to-day activities normally, just like any other resident. Khuehami appreciated DGP Kailash Makwan, Bhopal Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar and DCP Bhopal Zone IV Adarsh Shukla, SHO Manoj Patwa for taking immediate cognisance of the matter. Their intervention has sent a clear message that no one can take the law into their own hands or target students because of their Kashmiri identity or religion. JKSA reiterated that Kashmiri students studying outside Jammu & Kashmir are equal citizens of India and must be able to pursue their education without fear, intimidation or discrimination. No student should ever be forced to choose between their safety and education. Students from Jammu & Kashmir travel across the country to build their future, and they deserve to live, study and move freely with dignity. Identity, region or religion cannot be a basis for harassment, intimidation or exclusion, Khuehami said. Association also appreciated DGP Kailash Makwana for reiterating that Jammu & Kashmir is an integral and equal part of India and that its people are equal citizens of the country, entitled to the same rights, protection and dignity as citizens from any other state or Union Territory. The swift response of the Madhya Pradesh Police has reinforced our faith in the administration and in the principle that the rule of law must prevail over prejudice, intimidation and identity-based discrimination, Khuehami added.

NC normalising BJPs post-Aug 5 agenda, diluting Article 370: Ruhullah

Srinagar Lok Sabha member and senior National Conference leader Aga Ruhullah Mehdi has accused his own party of deviating from its stated position on Jammu and Kashmir and alleged that its recent protest in New Delhi demanding restoration of statehood was an attempt to dilute the larger issue of restoration of Article 370 and constitutional guarantees. As per KNS, Ruhullah said political parties in Jammu and Kashmir should be judged by their manifestos, ideology and stated policies rather than by individual statements. There is no need to listen to me or anyone else. People can judge themselves. Look at the manifesto, ideology and policy, he said. Ruhullah said his recent seminar in Delhi on the restoration of Article 370 and constitutional rights had received support from several opposition parties, including the Congress, Samajwadi Party, DMK, RJD and CPI(M), besides independent MPs. He described the event as a significant development, saying it was possibly the first time that people from Jammu and Kashmir had gone to Delhi to speak directly about the region's constitutional status and rights. People of Jammu and Kashmir went to Delhi and talked about Jammu and Kashmir, its constitutional rights, status and situation. This has never happened before, he said. Ruhullah said the venue, which had a capacity of around 250 people, saw more attendees than its capacity, with people from Jammu, Kashmir, Rajouri and Punjab participating. According to him, MPs from several political parties spoke against the abrogation of Article 370 and supported restoration of constitutional protections for Jammu and Kashmir. He said the Congress, DMK, Samajwadi Party, RJD and CPI(M) representatives, among others, supported the demand, with some arguing that restoration of statehood alone would not address the issue. Statehood is not the solution to the problem. The status of Jammu and Kashmir should be restored as per the wishes of the people and as per the constitutional guarantees and protections, he quoted the participating leaders as saying. Ruhullah said the response demonstrated that there was political space in New Delhi to discuss Article 370 and constitutional protections. I proved that it can be talked about in Delhi. People are ready to listen to it. They are also ready to speak for you and support you on constitutional rights and protections, he said, calling for the creation of a common vocabulary around the issue. The Srinagar MP also criticised National Conference leaders and members who attended the party's Jantar Mantar protest but later claimed they had gone there under the impression that it was his seminar. They are making fun of themselves. It is an insult for the members who went there, he said. Ruhullah said he had invited Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, National Conference MPs and colleagues, as well as BJP MPs from Jammu, to his Delhi programme. He alleged that the Chief Minister and other party members did not respond to his invitation. I wrote that this is the collective work of all of us. This is our responsibility. We should do this work, he said. Ruhullah alleged that after receiving his letter about the August 5 programme, the National Conference decided to hold its own protest in Parliament demanding statehood. He claimed there had been no earlier announcement of such a programme and alleged that the move was intended to dilute the focus of his event on Article 370 and constitutional rights. He said the party's position should be assessed against its own manifestos and historical political position. What did the National Conference say before the election? I am working on that manifesto. The party is not doing it. On the contrary, it is deviating, Ruhullah said. He argued that restoration of Article 370 and constitutional guarantees necessarily encompassed the issue of statehood. When we talk about Article 370 or restoration of constitutional guarantees, where is statehood outside that? That is included. It is automatically included, he said. Ruhullah alleged that limiting the political demand to statehood would amount to accepting a narrower agenda than what the party had promised voters. You are becoming a beggar on the table yourself. You are leaving your dignity on the table, he said. The NC leader also sharply criticised the party's Jantar Mantar protest, questioning its size and political seriousness. For the sake of argument, I believe for two minutes that they went to ask for statehood. They should not have gone. But if they claim they went to do the right thing, where was their cadre? he asked. Ruhullah said the National Conference, which he described as the biggest cadre-based party in Jammu and Kashmir, should have been able to mobilise a much larger number of supporters for an issue as important as statehood. He contrasted the protest with student-led demonstrations, saying young protesters had demonstrated greater persistence and mobilisation in pursuing their demands. Seriousness, dedication and conviction means you sit there until you convince them, he said. Ruhullah also criticised what he described as the party's focus on optics, referring to the participation of senior leaders in an auto-rickshaw during their Delhi visit. Someone did me a favour. For the first time in their life, they got into an auto. That optics came out, he said sarcastically. He alleged that the statehood protest was organised to ease political pressure on the party over the question of restoration of Article 370. There was immense pressure in Kashmir why are you not fighting for your rights? To save their credibility, by giving the name of statehood, they went there to create an optics so that the pressure gets over, he alleged. Ruhullah said the lack of mobilisation at the Jantar Mantar protest was particularly significant because the National Conference currently heads the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir and has a chief minister, ministers and legislators. He contrasted the turnout with party gatherings where, he alleged, thousands of people could be mobilised for political or organisational purposes. Where was their cadre for this work? Why were there only 100-150 people there? he asked. Ruhullah said he himself had been able to mobilise significantly more people for a programme marking the anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370. He also rejected suggestions that raising the issue of Article 370 amounted to indiscipline within the National Conference. He said the party's ideology, manifesto and political resolutions should be the benchmark for determining whether a leader was acting within party discipline. Whoever is working on that manifesto and ideology is working in the hands of the party. Whoever is deviating from it, diluting that manifesto, is working against the manifesto, ideology and discipline of the party, he said. Ruhullah further alleged that the National Conference was moving towards normalising the political position that the BJP had sought to establish after the 2019 abrogation of Article 370. The thing that the BJP should normalise post-abrogation of Article 370, unfortunately the National Conference is normalising the same thing, he said. He claimed that the political objective was increasingly being restricted to statehood, which he said he would not accept. I will not walk on that road, Ruhullah said. On whether he believed statehood and constitutional protections could eventually be restored, Ruhullah pointed to past political movements and public campaigns as examples of how sustained pressure could produce results. Students have shown you that if you believe in your rights, if you work with conviction, courage and sincerity, you can achieve it, he said. He also cited farmers' protests as an example of sustained mobilisation leading to policy change, arguing that political demands could be achieved when pursued with determination. Ruhullah said the people of Jammu and Kashmir should not lose faith in their constitutional demands merely because restoration had not yet taken place. He maintained that the issue required sustained political advocacy, public mobilisation and efforts to build support across India.

NC govt failed to deliver, BJP to safeguard peoples interests: Sat Sharma

J&K Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma on Wednesday, while accusing the National Conference government of having failed in addressing the day-to-day concerns of the people, asserted that the BJP would safeguard the interests of aggrieved sections of society. Sat Sharma was interacting with the deputations of people during his visit to the public grievance camp organised at the BJP headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu. BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa was listening to the public grievances. Sat Sharma, during his visit, assured the visiting deputations that the BJP remained fully committed to safeguarding the interests of every section of society. He said that while the present NC government failed to address the day-to-day concerns of the people, BJP would continue to serve as the most accessible platform for the common citizens, ensuring that their genuine issues were taken up before the concerned authorities without delay. J&K BJP Swachhta Abhiyan Department convenor Dil Bahadur Singh Jamwal, Department co-convenor T K Sharma, and Jammu district convenor S K Zalpuri coordinated the proceedings of the grievance camp. Among the prominent issues raised were the demand for NOCs and ownership rights by a deputation from Gandhi Nagar; joining letters of selected outstanding sportspersons under SRO-12; construction of a deep drain in Sector-2 Gangyal Garden and acute water scarcity in Sarwal, Gorkha Mohalla Last Morh, Meenia Mohalla Trikuta Nagar Extension and Main Road Digiana. Residents from Sector-2 Gangyal, Gandhi Nagar and Sarwal sought the construction of lanes and drains, while an individual requested the release of one year's pending vehicle rent from the SE Hydraulics Department. A student sought assistance regarding admission to Government Women College, Gandhi Nagar and a woman from Qasim Nagar requested immediate police intervention in an alleged molestation case. Sat Sharma, speaking on the occasion, said that BJP always believed that public service was the highest responsibility of a political organisation. While the NC government was busy making excuses and indulging in political theatrics, BJP leaders remained among the people, listening to their problems and ensuring that every genuine grievance reached the appropriate authorities, he maintained. We will continue to stand firmly with the people until their issues are resolved, he said. Vikram Randhawa said that the grievance camp reflected BJP's culture of accountability and accessibility. He said that every complaint received would be vigorously pursued with the concerned departments. He said that the people of Jammu deserved responsive governance, not administrative indifference. He added that the BJP would continue to act as the voice of the common man and ensure that public welfare remained the top priority. Dil Bahadur Singh Jamwal said that the overwhelming public participation demonstrated the people's trust in BJP's working style. He assured that all developmental and civic issues would be systematically taken up with the concerned departments. T K Sharma reiterated that the party remained committed to ensuring timely redressal of genuine public grievances through continuous follow-up.

Altaf Bukhari welcomes new entrants into Apni party fold

Several prominent political and social activists from the Zakura area on the outskirts of Srinagar Wednesday joined the Apni Party in the presence of party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari. They joined the party during a meeting with the party president and other senior leaders in Zakura. Bukhari warmly welcomed the new entrants into the party fold, said a press release. Among the prominent new entrants were NC senior workers Dr Owais Ahmed Bhat and Abdul Rehman Mir, both hailing from Syed Colony in Zakura. Meanwhile, during his visit to Zakura, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, accompanied by senior party leaders, paid obeisance at the revered shrine of Sufi saint Hazrat Lal Baba Sahab Reshi. On the occasion, they prayed for peace, prosperity and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. The party leaders present on the occasion included General Secretary Rafi Ahmed Mir; Chief Spokesperson and State Secretary Muntazir Mohiuddin; Provincial Secretary Mohammad Saleem Lone; Provincial Organiser Secretary Yousuf Abdullah; Hazratbal Constituency In-charge Mohammad Sidiq Mir; Zonal President Rural Farooq Ahmad Magray; Senior Leader Abdul Hamid Dar; District Member Srinagar Farooq Din Sofi; Mohammad Subhan Mir; and others.

Amid challenges, Omar Govt's performance commendable: Chowdry Ramzan

National Conference Additional General Secretary and Rajya Sabha Member Chowdry Muhammad Ramzan Wednesday called upon party leaders, office-bearers and workers to strengthen their direct connect with the people and proactively take up their concerns with the government and concerned authorities for timely redressal. Addressing a meeting at the party headquarters, Chowdry Ramzan said that the National Conference is a mass-based political movement rooted in public service, as per a press release. He commended the performance of the Omar Abdullah-led government, saying that it assumed office amid exceptionally difficult circumstances, including financial and administrative constraints and a host of inherited challenges. Despite these limitations, he said, the government has remained focused on public welfare and development and has continued working to fulfil the commitments made to the people. He said visible attention is being accorded to vital sectors including roads, electricity, drinking water, healthcare, education, urban amenities, infrastructure and employment. He added that the governments initiatives reflect its commitment to addressing public concerns and improving the delivery of essential services. Chowdry Ramzan urged party workers to take these people-oriented initiatives to the grassroots while at the same time ensuring that public grievances and aspirations are effectively conveyed to the government. He said workers should serve as a bridge between the people and the administration by identifying genuine issues, pursuing them with the concerned departments and using their influence to facilitate their resolution. Emphasising the urgency of restoring statehood, he said it is indispensable for effective governance, accelerated development and meaningful administrative accountability in Jammu and Kashmir. He maintained that an elected government must have the requisite constitutional and administrative powers to respond swiftly to public needs, ensure greater accountability and implement developmental programmes efficiently. He reiterated that the National Conference would continue its democratic, constitutional and political struggle for restoration of statehood and would not compromise on this legitimate demand. He said public service has always been at the core of the National Conferences politics and cannot be restricted to any particular period or circumstance. A strong political organisation is one whose roots remain firmly embedded among the people and whose workers stand shoulder to shoulder with them in every difficult period, he said. Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir, Provincial Secretary Syed Tauqeer Ahmad, Convener Minority Cell Sardar Jagdish Singh Azad, Joint Secretary Ghulam Nabi Wani Tilbali and other office-bearers were also present at the meeting.

Unscientific waste dumping in Budgams Ohangam challenged

Srinagar, Aug 19:The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notice to the Jammu & Kashmir government over alleged unscientific waste dumping at Ohangam in Beerwah by the Rural Development Department (RDD), Block Rathsun, Budgam. The Principal Bench of the NGT, headed by Justice Prakash Srivastava, Chairperson, also directed the J&K Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) to conduct a spot inspection and submit factual details to the tribunal. The JKPCC team had already visited the site in June this year after locals protested against alleged illegal dumping of waste and the setting up of a waste processing site in the area. The petitioner, Raja Muzaffar Bhat, raised a grievance over the alleged illegal and unscientific dumping of municipal solid waste in village Ohangam, Block Rathsun, Budgam. In his original application (OA), the petitioner alleged that the Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Budgam, and Block Development Officer, Rural Development Block, Rathsun, were involved in dumping waste at Ohangam for the last few years against the wishes of local residents. He alleged that waste was being dumped near the main road, surrounded by three water canals, in violation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016/2026. The petitioners counsel, Advocate Saurabh Sharma, submitted geotagged photographs and a JKPCC inspection report in support of the allegations. The report stated that waste was being dumped along the Ohangam-Rathsun-Soibugh road, a major district road connecting nearby villages. The report said the site was about 125 metres from an educational institution and around 120 metres from the nearest house. It was surrounded by orchards, while stray dogs were seen roaming around the dumping site. It also noted foul smell from the dumped waste, causing inconvenience to road users and public nuisance. The JKPCC report said the RDD, Budgam, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat and BDO Rathsun were responsible for ensuring segregation, processing and scientific disposal of waste under the applicable rules. The NGT order said the application raised substantial issues relating to compliance of the environmental norms and directed notices to the respondents. The tribunal directed JKPCC to ascertain the status of the alleged illegal dumping and, if the allegations were found correct, take appropriate punitive and remedial measures. It also directed the committee to submit an action-taken report at least a week before the next hearing. It is ironic that tons of untreated waste has been dumped at Ohangam in the last two years by RDD Rathsun block and the site selection was not done by local Halqa Majlis/Gram Sabha, Dr Raja Muzaffar said. He alleged that the department was now planning to set up a plastic waste processing plant at the site, which he termed illegal. The site cannot be set up without the consent of Halqa Majlis (Gram Sabha) and it violates the Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016 itself and MSW Rules 2026. Let the government allocate land for this unit in an industrial estate, he said. The case is listed for the next hearing on October 29.