Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja takes over as 47th Director General Armed Forces Medical Services
New Delhi, Sep 1: Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja assumed the appointment of the 47th Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) on September 01, 2026. As the DGAFMS, Air Marshal Thareja will oversee the provision of comprehensive medical support to the Defence Forces. His appointment comes at a time of significant transformation within the AFMS, with continuing emphasis on operational medical preparedness, jointness, modernisation of military healthcare, digital health, medical research and innovation, human-resource development and delivery of high-quality healthcare to serving personnel, veterans and their dependents. An alumnus of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, Air Marshal Thareja was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in December 1986. A distinguished physician and gastroenterologist, he completed his MD in Medicine from Delhi and DM in Gastroenterology from AIIMS, New Delhi. During an illustrious career spanning nearly four decades, the Air Marshal has held a wide spectrum of clinical, academic, operational and administrative appointments. His important command and administrative assignments include Commandant, 167 Military Hospital, Brigadier In-Charge Administration and Commander Troops, Base Hospital Delhi Cantt and Commandant Command Hospital (Central Command). His tenure at Base Hospital Delhi Cantt during the COVID-19 pandemic was marked by the management of complex and rapidly evolving healthcare and administrative challenges. During his command of Command Hospital, Lucknow the Detailed Project Report for a new Command Hospital was prepared in record time. As Director and Commandant at AFMC Pune, he spearheaded several initiatives aimed at strengthening medical education and research. As DGMS (Air) he gave thrust to Gaganyaan Mission and was the leading force behind Analog experiments to Astronaut Selection & Training. BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita & Maitri) cubes were gifted to the Maldives by the Prime Minister and as part of HADR to Jamaica, Cuba, Sri Lanka & Myanmar under his stewardship. Prior to taking over as DG AFMS, Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, New Delhi paid homage to the fallen heroes.
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Does Switching Shampoo Cause Dandruff? Dermatologist Explains
Switched your shampoo and now facing sudden flaking? A dermatologist breaks down whether it's actually dandruff or just your scalp adjusting, and when to see a specialist.
Pregnancy and Blurry Vision: Is It Normal? Doctor Explains Causes and Tips To Manage
Blurry vision may be a common and extremely normal phenomenon occurring at any point in pregnancy. Our expert explains its causes and how to deal with it.
5 Potential Benefits of Barefoot Shoes For Your Feet, According to an Orthopaedic Specialist
Barefoot shoes promise stronger, more natural feet, but do they deliver? An orthopaedic specialist breaks down 5 real benefits and the risks to know first.
Why Makhan Mishri Is Offered To Lord Krishna And How To Make It At Home
Makhan mishri, a mix of fresh white butter and rock sugar, is a cherished offering to Lord Krishna on Janmashtami.
IGP Kashmir Sujit Kumar calls on CM Omar Abdullah at Civil Secretariat
Srinagar, September 1: Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone Sujit Kumar today paid a courtesy call on the Chief Minister at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, following his recent assumption of charge as the Inspector General of Police, Kashmir. During the meeting, the Chief Minister welcomed the senior police officer and extended his best wishes to Sujit Kumar for a successful and productive tenure. The courtesy meeting comes shortly after the IGP Kashmir took charge of the important assignment, which oversees policing and security-related matters across the Kashmir Valley.
SC quashes all FIRs against CJP protestors, Sept 5 march called off
New Delhi, Sep 1: The Supreme Court on Tuesday quashed all FIRs registered against students who participated in the Cockroach Janta Party-led protests between July 20 to 25 across the country, prompting the group to call off its September 5 march in the national capital. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant also directed the Centre to provide within three months compensation to families of students who ended their lives over the NEET paper leak. Closing the criminal proceedings against the protestors, the bench said, Keeping in view the future prospects of the young protestors, we invoke our powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to do complete justice. Article 142 empowers the apex court to pass any orders to do complete justice. Acceding to the Centre's request, the apex court, however, permitted Delhi Police to register fresh FIRs against 2,873 individuals with serious criminal antecedents who were present in the Jantar Mantar protest. The bench, also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, took note of the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and widened the ambit of its order. If there is any other FIR registered with regard to same protest between July 20 to July 25 in any of the states or UTs, which are not before this court, they shall not be pursued and will be treated as closed, it said Dealing with the award compensation to the families of those who committed suicide, the court directed the Centre to formulate a pan-India policy on the issue and pay the money within three months to aggrieved families. CJP co-convenor Saurav Das appeared before the bench and read out a statement on behalf of the group. As co-convener of the CJP, I want to state that in view of the positive assurances of the Government of India and the judicial sanctity bestowed upon them today, and in view of the order being passed by this Court, the CJP deems it appropriate to withdraw the call for the march on September 5 and looks forward to compliance with today's order. I also thank the Court for this decision and the learned counsel on both sides, Ms. Vrinda Grover and the Solicitor General, for their efforts, Das said. The bench recorded the statements of the solicitor general and Das and said it has invoked its extraordinary powers keeping in mind the peculiar facts and circumstances of the case. It expressed the hope that both sides will abide by their promises. During the hearing, Mehta informed the court that the Centre is committed to honour assurances given to the CJP that the police in Delhi and other states would not pursue the FIRs registered in connection with the protests. The solicitor general also told the court that the Union of India is committed to other assurances as well, including compensation to the families. Mehta, however, sought time to work out the necessary modalities. The CJP had called for a protest march in Delhi on September 5, Teachers' Day. It had accused the Centre of failing to honour the promises made on July 25 to persuade the group to withdraw its 36-day agitation against irregularities in exams and the NEET paper leak. According to the CJP, the march was to be led by families of students who committed suicide following the cancellation of the NEET exam and the subsequent re-test, as well as those who were allegedly subjected to police excesses during the July agitation. The top court had agreed to hear a plea filed by Delhi Police seeking quashing of 13 FIRs against students who participated in the protests and registering a fresh case against 2,873 individuals. The application said that according to the decision taken by the Central government on July 25, Delhi Police no longer wished to pursue the 13 FIRs. It is submitted that 2,873 individuals having serious criminal antecedents as per the National Crime Records Bureau database were prima-facie reported to be present at the protest site. The investigation is required to ascertain their role, if any, in the commission of offences relating to bodily harm or destruction of property at the said protests. The Delhi Police seeks leave to file a fresh FIR only for these 2,873 individuals. The registration and consequential investigation of this fresh, specific FIR shall be in conformity with the clarification of the expression, 'criminal antecedents', the application said. The apex court had earlier constituted a high-powered enquiry committee headed by former apex court judge Justice R Subhash Reddy to probe issues and allegations, including those of police excesses against students surrounding the nationwide protests against NEET-UG paper leaks. The CJP-led march on July 20 in Delhi saw clashes between protesters and security personnel, who used lathis and teargas shells to disperse crowds attempting to move towards Parliament. The student-led protests, which spread to several cities, were centred around the resignation of the then Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The agitation, which began at Jantar Mantar on June 20, was called off on July 25 after Pradhan resigned and the government accepted the CJP's other demands.
Flash flood-like conditions hit Pahalgam as Lidder River swells after heavy rain
Sprouted vs Boiled Moong Dal: Which Packs a Bigger Protein Punch?
Moong dal is a good source of protein and nutrients. But is it better to have them boiled or sprouted? A dietitian answers this question for you.
Three major urban development projects worth nearly Rs 2700 crore approved in J-K
SRINAGAR: The Union Territory Level High Powered Steering Committee (UTHPSC) in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday approved three major urban development projects worth nearly Rs 2700 crore. The projects identified by the Housing and Urban Development Department (H&UDD) include TARANG (Tawi Area Regeneration and Green Growth) in Jammu, Walled City and Nigeen Lakefront Revitalisation in []
Chenab swells in J&Ks Reasi as four Salal Dam gates opened to regulate reservoir flow
Reasi, Sep 01: The Chenab River witnessed a fresh rise in water level in Reasi district on Tuesday after four gates of the Salal Dam were opened to regulate increased inflow into the reservoir. The gates were opened as rainfall continued across the upper catchment areas, resulting in a substantial increase in the volume of water entering the reservoir. The excess water was released downstream in a controlled manner to regulate the reservoir level as the authorities kept a close watch on the situation. The latest rise in the Chenab comes amid ongoing rainfall activity in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, with water levels in rivers and other water bodies being monitored by the concerned authorities. The controlled release from Salal Dam is aimed at managing the increased inflow and maintaining the reservoir within safe operating levels. [KNT]
J&K LG Manoj Sinha chairs security review meeting at Lok Bhawan
Altaf Bukhari urges collective action to protect J&K Banks character, interests
Srinagar, Sep 1: Apni Party president and former Jammu and Kashmir finance minister Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday urged political parties, civil society groups, business organisations and other stakeholders to come together to protect the character, identity and interests of Jammu and Kashmir Bank. Expressing concern over what he described as the banks gradual drift away from the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, Bukhari said several recent developments warranted collective attention. He alleged that the bank was reducing its credit growth within Jammu and Kashmir while expanding its operations outside the Union Territory. Bukhari also raised concerns over a proposal that, he said, could pave the way for recruitment of outsiders at the cost of employment opportunities for the youth of J&K. He further alleged that Jammu and Kashmir had inadequate representation on the banks Board of Directors and expressed concern over an alleged attempt to shift the headquarters of the premier financial institution from Srinagar. These developments cannot be dismissed as routine administrative matters. They have a direct bearing on the economic interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have a legitimate stake in the institution and its future, Bukhari said. He appealed to all political parties and social organisations to rise above partisan interests and collectively oppose any move that could, in his view, undermine the interests of the people of J&K. This is not an issue concerning any one political party or section of society. It concerns the collective social and economic interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he said. Bukhari said the people of Jammu and Kashmir collectively hold more than 52 percent of the shares in J&K Bank, describing them as the institutions principal stakeholders. They have, therefore, a legitimate right to demand that the interests of the institution and its shareholders be protected, he said. Calling for a collective strategy, Bukhari urged the Chambers of Commerce from both Jammu and Kashmir, lawyers, intellectuals, civil society groups, business organisations and other concerned sections to discuss the issue and make their voices heard. The time has come for all of us to speak with one voice: J&K Bank must remain rooted in Jammu and Kashmir, and its policies must continue to prioritise the interests of the people who have nurtured, supported, and strengthened this institution for generations, he said. Bukhari appealed to stakeholders to come together before, what he termed, it is too late and work towards ensuring that the bank continues to prioritise serving the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Kargil Democratic Alliance announces full support for KargilLeh padyatra from September 10 to 24
Kargil, Sep 1: The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) on Tuesday announced its full support to the proposed Kargil-Leh Padyatra in support of their demands. The Padyatra is being organised by Socialist Party and other civil and political organisations to extend the solidarity and support for Ladakhs demand for Statehood, Sixth schedule and Justice for 24 September victims. The KDA and other stakeholders held an important meeting attended by KDA Co-Chairmen Asgar Ali Karbalai and Sajjad Kargili, along with members of the KDA body and all concerned stakeholders. Following the meeting, a press conference was held in which the KDA announced its full support for the KargilLeh Padyatra scheduled from September 10 to 24. The meeting was attended by MP Ladakh Hanifa Jan Addressing the press conference, KDA Co-Chairman Asgar Ali Karbalai said that the Kargil Democratic Alliance would continue its peaceful and democratic struggle for the constitutional, democratic and legitimate rights of the people of Ladakh. He made it clear that until the UT Administration and the Government of India recognise and address the legitimate rights and demands of the people of Kargil and Leh regions, the peaceful democratic struggle and raising of the peoples voice will continue. He said that the Padyatra would receive the full support of the Kargil Democratic Alliance. KDA Co-Chairman and Padyatra Convenor Sajjad Kargili will provide regular media briefings throughout the march and lead the march along with Sandeep Pandey. As per the programme, the Padyatra will begin from Kargil on September 10 and proceed up to Haniskot, with the Kargil Democratic Alliance responsible for its coordination along this stretch. From Haniskot to Leh, the Padyatra will be coordinated by the Leh Apex Body (LAB). The Padyatra will culminate in Leh on September 24 with a candlelight vigil in remembrance of the tragic events of September 24, 2025, when four young people lost their lives during protests in Leh, while hundreds were injured and detained. The Padyatra will reiterate solidarity with the victims and their families and reaffirm the demand for justice, accountability and a credible resolution of the issues that led to the tragedy. The KDA emphasised that the Padyatra is not directed against any individual or political party, but is a peaceful peoples movement for the democratic, constitutional and legitimate rights of the people of Ladakh. Members of Parliament, civil society representatives, social activists and other public figures from different parts of the country are also expected to join the Padyatra. Well-known social activist Sandeep Pandey, among others, is expected to participate. All stakeholders present at the meeting reiterated their commitment to extending full support to the Kargil Democratic Alliance and making the Padyatra successful. They emphasised that the issues confronting Ladakh must be resolved through dialogue, democratic engagement and peaceful public participation.
Delhi HC issues notice on MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdis plea over Facebook account restriction
New Delhi, Sep 01: The Delhi High Court on Tuesday issued notice on a plea filed by Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi challenging restrictions imposed on his Facebook account. The matter came up before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, where Mehdis counsel submitted that the MPs access to his Facebook page had been completely restricted without any prior notice, reported Live Law. Appearing for Meta Platforms, the counsel said the page had been taken down pursuant to a notice issued by a law enforcement agency and sought time to place the notice before the court. Mehdis counsel, however, submitted that the petitioner had not been informed about the alleged violation or the basis for the restriction. The counsel further argued that Meta was required to follow the grievance redressal mechanism under the Information Technology Rules. He said Mehdi had approached the companys grievance redressal officer, but no response had been received within the stipulated 24-hour period. The petitioners counsel also told the court that no specific content on Mehdis Facebook page had been identified as objectionable. After hearing the submissions, the High Court issued notice to the respondents and directed them to file their replies. The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 30.
In 1925, a Kansas farm boy built a telescope from scratch and found Pluto five years later
PHE daily wagers protest in Srinagar, demand regularisation
Daily wagers forum protests in Srinagar, seeks regularisation
Srinagar, Sep 01: Members of the Jammu and Kashmir Casual Daily Wagers Forum (JKCDF) on Tuesday held a protest at Press Enclave in Srinagar, demanding regularisation. Addressing the protesters, president Sajad Ahmed Parray said they demand that the committee formed for regularisation should submit its report, as promised. The government should take the matter forward and resolve our issues. They promised regularisation and we want them to fulfil the promise, he said. He said a 16-minute film highlighting the struggles and hardships of daily wagers would be released at Tagore Hall in Srinagar this afternoon. Parray said the they will also hold a protest at SK Park in Srinagar on September 10. We will continue our peaceful struggle until the government addresses the long-pending demand of daily wagers, he said(KNO)
7 Postpartum Weight Loss Tips That Actually Account for a New Mother's Body
Postpartum weight loss is different from regular weight loss because your body is still recovering after pregnancy and childbirth. An expert shares 7 practical tips for new mothers.
Delhi-bound IndiGo flight returns to Goa after engine snag; passengers safe
The flight landed safely, and the passengers will be flown to Delhi in the afternoon, he said, without giving more details.
SCO must work unitedly to dismantle terror ecosystem: PM Modi
We must speak in one voice that there can be no place for double standards in dealing with terrorism, PM Modi said
Scientists use deep-sea robots to discover huge lava fields around an active volcano
Fire breaks out at Jan Agency in Srinagars Nawabazar, two firefighters injured
Bengaluru Woman Allegedly Finds Caterpillar In Paris Panini Food, Founder Apologises
The founder said that an apology doesn't undo the experience and added that he would personally look into the matter.
Srinagar, Sep 01: The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Tuesday cautioned the public against using apps operating under names such as Night Play, Reloop, Kyss, Vimo, Rivo, Nexo and Vixa along with similar variants, warning that such applications misuse accessibility permissions to take control of devices and potentially facilitate unauthorised financial transactions. Police said the applications redirect users to websites that prompt them to download APK files from outside official app stores. Once installed, such apps may misuse Accessibility permissions, take control of the device and potentially enable unauthorised financial transactions, Police stated. If you're a victim of cybercrime, call on 1930 or report on, Police added.
Urine Near Stall, Dog Eating Meat, Mice Near Salsa: Shocking Street Food Complaints In LA
Los Angeles, California, US, is estimated to have around 50,000 street vendors operating across the city.
For some heat, try the Soleil Picante with tequila, jalapeo and agave, or even the Parisian Bling.
Over 11,000 rescued from flood-hit areas in Nepal
Kathmandu, Sep 01: More than 11,000 people have been rescued from flood-affected areas in Nepal so far, with over 22,000 security personnel mobilised for search and rescue operations, officials said on Tuesday. As of Monday, the death toll from the devastating flash floods was 939, while around 4,000 people were still missing. At least 16 helicopters have also been deployed for search and rescue operations in the affected areas, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) spokesperson Shanti Mahat said. More than 11,000 people have been rescued so far, he said, adding that the government has intensified search and rescue efforts in the flood-hit areas. Over 22,000 security personnel, including those from the Nepal Army, have been mobilised for the operations, Mahat said. So far, 254 labourers and technicians have been rescued from the Upper Trishuli 1 Hydropower Project sites, while search operations continue with the involvement of Indian and Chinese tunnel rescue experts. According to the latest figures, 927 bodies have been sealed, of which 51 have been handed over to family members following identification, while 726 remain unidentified. As many as 413 unidentified bodies have so far been managed or buried in accordance with standard international norms, officials said. The authorities have arranged temporary shelter for 2,970 displaced people at various holding centres. Meanwhile, the NDRRMA issued an alert to people living along the banks of the Bishnumati River after its water level near the Gongabu area crossed the danger mark. The authority urged residents in riverbank areas to remain alert and take necessary precautions.
Rost Khar review: Where French toast, coffee and Gen Z indulgence meet
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Sun Pharma to extend MFN pricing to US state Medicaid programmes
Sun Pharma ranks second in US dermatology by prescriptions, with key brands including Ilumya for plaque psoriasis and Winlevi for acne. Recent US launches include Leqselvi for severe alopecia areata and Unloxcyt for advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, strengthening its presence in dermatology and cutaneous oncology.
Struggling To Find Veg Food In Korea? This Seoul Temple Has A Special Menu
During her visit to South Korea, content creator Dipanjali Pal explored Maji, a Buddhist temple that serves vegetarian food.
All government, private schools to remain closed in Poonch today amid heavy rains
Poonch, Sep 01: The Poonch administration has ordered the closure of all government and private schools across the district on Tuesday as a precautionary measure amid heavy rainfall. Chief Education Officer Poonch Javed Gulshan said heavy rains have been lashing the district since morning, raising the possibility of a rise in water levels in rivers and streams. In view of the prevailing weather conditions and keeping the safety of students and teachers in mind, all government and private educational institutions across Poonch district will remain closed today, he said. The administration said the decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to avoid any risk to students and staff amid the inclement weather. Gulshan said a decision regarding the reopening of schools on Wednesday would be taken after assessing the weather conditions. He added that educational institutions would reopen only if there is sufficient improvement in the weather. The administration has also urged people to remain alert and follow advisories issued by the concerned authorities.
Old Monk To Remove Iconic '7 Years Old Blended' Tag After Food Authority Crackdown
Mohan Meakin will remove the seven years old blended claim from Old Monk packaging following FSSAI objections.
EOW Kashmir chargesheets man in land grabbing, forgery case
Srinagar, Sep 01: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K on Tuesday said it has filed a chargesheet against a Srinagar resident in a land grabbing case involving alleged forged documents and an attempt to obtain building permission from the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC). In a statement, an official spokesperson said the EOW Kashmir of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet in FIR No. 08/2016 under Sections 420/511, 167, 471 and 120-B RPC before the court of the Sub-Judge, Srinagar, against Mushtaq Ahmad Malik, son of Ghulam Ahmad Malik, a resident of Barapather, Haft Chinar, Srinagar, and the then Patwari, who is now deceased. He said the case emanated from a complaint alleging that the accused, in conspiracy with each other, attempted to grab land bearing Khasra No. 642 and obtain building permission from the SMC using forged documents. Accordingly, a probe was ordered and, during the course of the investigation, the allegations were substantiated. The investigation revealed fraudulent documentation, misrepresentation of material facts and alleged misuse of official position. The investigation was closed as Proved, and the chargesheet was filed before the competent court for judicial determination. 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 through email at sspeow-kmr@jkpolice.gov.in.(KNO)
Congo authorities report more than 6,000 confirmed Ebola cases and nearly 3,000 deaths
Congos authorities report that the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak in history has topped 6,000 cases with 2,911 deaths
ITR filing for AY27 touches record 7.8 cr
New Delhi, Sep 01: A record over 7.8 crore ITRs have been filed for assessment year (AY) 2026-27 till August 31, the income tax department said on Tuesday. Last year, over 7.3 crore income tax returns (ITRs) were filed by September 16, 2025, the extended deadline for filing returns for non-audit cases for AY 2025-26. A record 7.8 crore+ ITRs have been filed for AY 2026-27 as on August 31,2026, the I-T department said in a X post. This also includes over 5.9 crore ITR-1 and ITR-2, which were filed by the due date of July 31. August 31, 2026, was the due date for filing ITRs for AY 2026-27 for taxpayers with business or professional income who are not subject to audit. If a taxpayer falls in the non-audit category, he/she can file the applicable ITR (ITR-3, ITR-4, ITR-5 or ITR-7). ITR-3 is filed by individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) with income from a proprietary business or profession. ITR-4 is a simpler form that caters to small and medium taxpayers. ITR-5 is filed by firms and Limited Liability Partnership and Cooperative Societies. ITR-6 is filed by companies registered under Companies Act and ITR-7 by trusts and charitable institutions.
Woman Randomly Stabs 2 In NYC, Killing 1; Shot Dead By Police
A woman randomly stabbed two people in New York City's Times Square, killing one woman, and then was fatally shot by police, according to the New York Police Department. The shooting on Monday happened next to a New York Police Department
Californias toxic yellow weed covered 2.34 million acres until beetles fought back
Flu Shots Can Keep India Healthier. Yet, Few Actually Take Them
Physicians and specialists say children, the elderly and those with comorbidities will benefit from the shot, but national programmes currently do not offer the annual vaccine
PM Modi calls for dialogue, diplomacy
Bishkek, Aug 31:Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday that India wants to expand and diversify the trade basket with Iran in the imes to come and called for resolution of the West Asia conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. Modi held talks with Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the SCO summit in this capital city of Kyrgyzstan. Met President Masoud Pezeshkian in Bishkek. Reiterated our commitment to strengthening Indias long standing friendship with Iran across diverse sectors, the prime minister said on social media. We want to expand and diversify our trade basket in the times to come. We had a discussion on the prevailing situation in the region. India will continue to support all efforts aimed at ensuring lasting peace, he said. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the two leaders discussed the West Asia conflict and shared perspectives on the evolving situation. The prime minister expressed concern at the escalation of tensions in the region and reiterated Indias consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, it said. Modi also reiterated the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region. Calling for safeguarding the freedom of navigation and commerce, he emphasised that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including commercial shipping and seafarers must not be harmed under any circumstances, the MEA said. Reiterating Indias readiness to closely cooperate with Iran in multilateral organisations, including BRICS and SCO, the prime minister conveyed that he looked forward to welcoming President Pezeshkian to India for the BRICS Summit, it said in a statement. An Iranian readout of the Modi-Pezeshkian meeting said the Iran president expressed appreciation for New Delhis support and cooperation with Iran during the recent war and emphasised the need to intensify diplomatic efforts to establish peace and security in the region. From the very beginning of our administration, our efforts have been focused on ensuring peace and security and resolving issues through dialogue and negotiations, Pezeshkian said. Unfortunately, instead of making use of diplomatic mechanisms, the Americans have chosen the path of war, insecurity and imposing their will through force, he said, according to the readout. Pezeshkian added: Our responsibility requires us to protect our people from danger and insecurity and to create the conditions necessary for them to achieve peace, tranquility and security. The President referred to India's important position and capacities in the region and the world, as well as the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations. Pezeshkian urged Modi to use India's extensive contacts with various parties to help them move away from the path of war and bloodshed and return to the path of dialogue and agreement. The Iranian president emphasised that the desire and will of the wise and responsible actors in the region and the world is for peace, security, tranquility and the avoidance of war. We believe that the solution to the issues we face lies in dialogue and cooperation, and that all available capacities must be mobilised to prevent the spread of insecurity and conflict, he said. Modi also held a separate bilateral meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. A wonderful meeting with Prime Minister of Armenia, Mr. Nikol Pashinyan on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek, the prime minister said. India-Armenia cooperation is all set to grow in defence, IT, space, education, pharmaceuticals and more. We are equally certain to deepen trade and investment linkages in the times to come, he said.
MBBS interns hold candlelight vigil for stipend hike in Srinagar
California and Arizona turned old tyres into reefs and found 20 times more fish
Sun Pharma among 9 pharmaceutical firms to lower drug prices for Americans, Trump says
Nine pharmaceutical firms reached deals with the Trump administration for lower drug prices. These agreements expand the total number of companies to twenty-six manufacturers. The deals cover medicines for chronic and rare diseases, benefiting Medicaid programs. Sun Pharma will contribute antibiotics to the US Strategic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Reserve. These initiatives aim to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and lower costs.
Meet Prakhar Purohit, who found a way to make tiny batteries from dirty water
Under-construction house collapses in Srinagars Saderbal, no casualties
Srinagar, Aug 31: An under-construction house collapsed onto a road while being jacked up for height enhancement in the Saderbal area of Hazratbal in Srinagar on Monday night, officials said. They said the structure collapsed during the jacking-up process, causing debris to fall onto the road and partially disrupting vehicular movement in the area. No casualties or injuries have been reported in the incident. The owner of the house resides at a separate location, an official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO). Meanwhile, CCTV footage capturing the incident has surfaced, showing the structure collapsing onto the road. Police reached the spot and initiated an investigation into the incident. The official urged people not to panic, saying necessary measures were being taken at the site.
The 10 most popular products ZDNET readers bought this month (including lots of phone cases)
From phone cases to antivirus software, these are the top tech gadgets and useful items our readers actually purchased in August.
I wore Coros and Garmin's sub-$300 sports watches - both are excellent, but one lasts longer
Not into the chunky sports watches? The Garmin Forerunner 170 and Coros Pace 4 are ultralight devices for athletes with smaller wrists. Here's how they compare.
The best early Labor Day 2026 Garmin watch deals: Gear up for marathon training for less
Fall marathon training season is here: Save up to $310 on early Labor Day 2026 Garmin watch deals, including the tested Forerunner 165, Instinct 3, and Fenix 8.
We found the best Labor Day 2026 streaming deals (including a $20 Fire Stick)
Labor Day deals are already making this a great time to buy a streaming device, and these prices are hard to beat.
Gemini Notebook can analyze your Google Play books now: 3 ways I use this feature
Import a supported Google Play book, and Gemini Notebook will use it as a source of information to generate reports, quizzes, podcasts, and more.
'Sophisticated' AI swarm attacks are months away, OpenAI warns: What experts say businesses must do
OpenAI sounds a solemn and dire alarm, but we're woefully unprepared for what's coming.
Mankind Pharma divests entire stake in Broadway Hospitality to AKRK Projects
Mankind Pharma has completed the sale of its entire stake in Broadway Hospitality Services. The transaction involved transferring 100 percent ownership to AKRK Projects LLP and its partners. This divestment officially concluded on August 31, 2026, as per the company's filing. Broadway Hospitality Services is no longer a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mankind Pharma. The total consideration for this divestment was reported as Rs 49 crore.
Meet Harshith Nelabhotla, who built an AI system that can recognise American Sign Language
AI cameras watched birds for 17,000 hours at solar farms with no collisions
Amazon just dropped the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones down to 50% off - the lowest price yet
Sony's excellent noise-canceling headphones just hit an all-time low price ahead of Labor Day.
Belgium Prime Minister to arrive in India on first official visit this week
New Delhi, Aug 31: At the invitation of the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Belgium, H.E. Bart De Wever, will undertake an official visit to India from 02 - 04 September 2026. Prime Minister De Wever would be accompanied by the Belgian Minister of Defence, H.E. Theo Francken.This will be Prime Minister De Wevers first visit to India since taking office in February 2025. During the visit, Prime Minister De Wever is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi on 03 September to discuss the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, as well as, regional and global issues of mutual interest. Prime Minister De Wever will also deliver a keynote address at a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) business event, in the context of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Prime Minister De Wever would subsequently travel to Mumbai, where he will engage with various stakeholders including from the diamond, ports & logistics sectors. The visit will provide an opportunity to further strengthen the India-Belgium partnership and advance cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment, defence and security, technology, renewable energy, connectivity and people-to-people ties, as well as to further deepen India-EU and India-Europe engagement.
NPCI International and Uzbekistans NIPC partner to enable UPI payments across Uzbekistan via UZQR
New Delhi, Aug 31: NPCI International Payments Ltd. (NIPL), the international arm of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has entered into a commercial agreement with the National Interbank Processing Centre JSC (NIPC), operator of Uzbekistans national payment system, HUMO, on 30th August 2026. The partnership enables Indian travellers to scan Uzbekistans national interoperable QR code UZQR using their familiar UPI-enabled applications to make instant merchant payments across the country. The announcement was made during the bilateral visit of the Prime Minister of India to Uzbekistan. The execution of the agreement follows formal approvals from financial regulators, including the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Central Bank of Uzbekistan (CBU), which designated HUMO as NIPLs authorised partner for cross-border merchant acceptance. Key Highlights of the Agreement Universal Merchant Acceptance: By integrating with CBUs mandated Unified National QR infrastructure (UZQR), UPI users gain near-universal acceptance across retail, hospitality, and service merchants in Uzbekistan. Seamless Travel Experience: Indian tourists, business travellers, and students can make direct person-to-merchant (P2M) payments from their Indian bank accounts, eliminating foreign exchange markup friction and reducing reliance on international cards or cash. Strengthened Bilateral Ties: The initiative advances digital public infrastructure cooperation and aligns with both nations' broader strategic and economic goals. UPI is Accepted in Ten Countries Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Bhutan, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Greece, enabling Indian travellers to make seamless payments abroad through UPI.
Tejinder Singh takes charge as IGP Jammu Zone
Jammu, Aug 31: Senior IPS officer, Tejinder Singh on Monday assumed charge as Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu Zone. A farewell-cum-welcome function was held at Zonal Police Headquarter Jammu to bid farewell to outgoing IGP Jammu Zone Bhim Sen Tuti and welcome Tejinder Singh as the new incumbent. Speaking on the occasion, B S Tuti expressed gratitude to the officers and personnel of Jammu Zone for their cooperation and dedication. Officer present conveyed their best wishes to Tuti for his new assignment and extended warm welcome to Tejinder Singh, wishing him success for his tenure as IGP Jammu Zone.
Habitual drug peddler detained under PIT-NDPS Act in J-K's Doda
Jammu, Aug 31: A habitual drug peddler was detained under stringent PIT-NDPS Act in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district on Monday, police said. In a related development, four peddlers were also arrested in Reasi district following recovery of over 10 grams of heroin during the day, the police said. Imtiaz Ahmad, a habitual drug offender, was detained under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act in Doda district, a police spokesperson said. He said Ahmad has previously been involved in two NDPS cases registered at the Doda Police Station in 2022 and 2025. Despite having been granted bail in these cases, preventive detention proceedings were initiated against him in accordance with law to prevent his involvement in activities prejudicial to the efforts against illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, the spokesperson said. After receipt of the detention order from the competent authority and completion of the requisite legal formalities, he said a police team executed the detention order and lodged the detenue in Central Jail Kot Bhalwal in Jammu under the provisions of the PIT-NDPS Act. In Reasi district, the spokesman said police intercepted a vehicle at Talwara arrested three peddlers -- Krishan Paul Singh, Romesh Singh and Vipan Singh -- following recovery of 6.78 grams of heroin. Another drug peddler, Deepak Kumar was arrested at Satyalta Junction near IRP Chowk in Reasi, he said. Kumar's search led to the recovery of 4.50 grams of heroin, the spokesman said, adding he is a habitual offender and is found to be involved in two NDPS cases in the past.
Muslim body announces movement for protection of Constitution, Sharia
New Delhi, Aug 31: The All India Muslim Personal Law Board on Monday announced a nationwide people's movement to protect the Constitution and Sharia (Islamic law), under which it would organise public meetings and protest programmes in major cities across the country. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) said it will prepare and disseminate a comprehensive white paper documenting incidents of discrimination against Muslims, constitutional violations, and human rights abuses to the media, human rights organisations, intellectuals, elected representatives, and relevant institutions. It said the Movement for the Protection of the Constitution and Sharia is not a movement of any particular community or section but a shared national struggle to safeguard the Constitution of India, the supremacy of democracy, the rule of law, religious freedom, human dignity, national unity, peace and fraternity. We firmly believe that justice, love, dialogue, mutual respect and constitutional struggle are the true guarantees of India's peaceful future. With this conviction, we invite every justice-loving, democratic and peace-loving citizen of the country, every social and religious organisation, and every responsible member of civil society to join this movement, the Board members said at a press conference. The Board said over the past several years, conditions have continuously emerged in the country in which vulnerable and marginalised sections, particularly Muslims, have been subjected to severe pressure, insecurity and discriminatory treatment at religious, social, political and economic levels. Mob violence, extra-legal bulldozer demolitions, targeting of mosques, madrasas and shrines, illegal occupation of Waqf properties and graveyards, arbitrary arrests of Muslim youth under baseless cases, interference with religious freedom, attempts to undermine Muslim Personal Law through the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), and attempts to undermine the beliefs of minorities by making the singing of Vande Mataram compulsory, have deepened a sense of insecurity among a large section of the population, the AIMPLB said. Eminent scholars, religious leaders of different faiths, intellectuals and social and political personalities will address these gatherings, and a protest will be organised in New Delhi, it said. The Board said it will submit a comprehensive Charter of Demands to the President of India through the Governors in each state and the district administrations in every district.
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Bishkek, Aug 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday that India wants to expand and diversify the trade basket with Iran in the imes to come and called for resolution of the West Asia conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. Modi held talks with Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the SCO summit in this capital city of Kyrgyzstan. Met President Masoud Pezeshkian in Bishkek. Reiterated our commitment to strengthening Indias long standing friendship with Iran across diverse sectors, the prime minister said on social media. We want to expand and diversify our trade basket in the times to come. We had a discussion on the prevailing situation in the region. India will continue to support all efforts aimed at ensuring lasting peace, he said. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the two leaders discussed the West Asia conflict and shared perspectives on the evolving situation. The prime minister expressed concern at the escalation of tensions in the region and reiterated Indias consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, it said. Modi also reiterated the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region. Calling for safeguarding the freedom of navigation and commerce, he emphasised that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including commercial shipping and seafarers must not be harmed under any circumstances, the MEA said. Reiterating Indias readiness to closely cooperate with Iran in multilateral organisations, including BRICS and SCO, the prime minister conveyed that he looked forward to welcoming President Pezeshkian to India for the BRICS Summit, it said in a statement. An Iranian readout of the Modi-Pezeshkian meeting said the Iran president expressed appreciation for New Delhis support and cooperation with Iran during the recent war and emphasised the need to intensify diplomatic efforts to establish peace and security in the region. From the very beginning of our administration, our efforts have been focused on ensuring peace and security and resolving issues through dialogue and negotiations, Pezeshkian said. Unfortunately, instead of making use of diplomatic mechanisms, the Americans have chosen the path of war, insecurity and imposing their will through force, he said, according to the readout. Pezeshkian added: Our responsibility requires us to protect our people from danger and insecurity and to create the conditions necessary for them to achieve peace, tranquility and security. The President referred to India's important position and capacities in the region and the world, as well as the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations. Pezeshkian urged Modi to use India's extensive contacts with various parties to help them move away from the path of war and bloodshed and return to the path of dialogue and agreement. The Iranian president emphasised that the desire and will of the wise and responsible actors in the region and the world is for peace, security, tranquility and the avoidance of war. We believe that the solution to the issues we face lies in dialogue and cooperation, and that all available capacities must be mobilised to prevent the spread of insecurity and conflict, he said. Modi also held a separate bilateral meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. A wonderful meeting with Prime Minister of Armenia, Mr. Nikol Pashinyan on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek, the prime minister said. India-Armenia cooperation is all set to grow in defence, IT, space, education, pharmaceuticals and more. We are equally certain to deepen trade and investment linkages in the times to come, he said.
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ACB chargesheets former junior assistant over misappropriation in mid-day meal ration in Rajouri
Srinagar, Aug 31: Jammu and Kashmir Anti Corruption Bureau on Monday produced a charge-sheet in case FIR No. 26/2018 under sections 5(1)(c), 5(1)(d) r/w 5(2) J&K P.C Act Svt. 2006 BK, Section 465, 468, 471, 201 & 120-B RPC against Mohd. Farooq, then Junior Assistant in the office of the ZEO Manjakote. Officials said the instant case was registered on 28-12-2018 in P/S VOJ (now ACB-J) on the outcome of verification which surfaced that misappropriation of rice measuring (200 Qntl approx pertaining to 4th quarter for the year 2014-15) of Mid Day meal Zone Manjakote by then ZEO Manjakote and his dealing hand Mohd Farooq I/C Mid Day Meal in Connivance with Mumtaz Hussain storekeeper Manjakote. During investigation, record so obtained was scrutinized and after obtaining FSL opinion, it has been prima facie established that Shah Nawaz khan then ZEO Manjakote (now deceased) and Mohd Farooq Jr. Assistant (dealing hand) in office of ZEO Manjakote by way of abuse of their official positions have got prepared fake/ forged and fabricated indent/ Authority letters by manipulating the official record and they had misappropriated 256.40 Qtls of rice of MDM Scheme which is worth of Rs. 8,03557.60/- along with an amount of Rs. 461578/- on account of cooking cost was also misappropriated by the concerned ZEO and Mohd Farooq I/c MDM. Therefore the above mentioned officer/officials by way of abuse of their official position caused loss to the state exchequer to the tune of Rs. 1265135.60. Since the accused Shah Nawaz khan then ZEO Manjakote has been expired, as such sanction for launching of prosecution of the accused in-service public servant namely Mohd Farooq Jr. Assistant (dealing Hand) in office of ZEO Manjakote was obtained from the competent authority and Anti-Corruption Bureau J&K produced charge sheet against the above mentioned accused person before the Honble Court of Special Judge Anti-Corruption Court Rajouri on 31.08.2026, officials said. The next date of hearing has been fixed for 29.09.2026.
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World shares are mixed, oil prices surge after US strike on Iranian rocket launchers
Bangkok, Aug 31: Shares were mixed in Europe and Asia and US futures declined Monday on expectations that the US Federal Reserve may raise interest rates soon. In early European trading, Germany's DAX lost 0.9 per cent to 26,339.04, while the CAC 40 in Paris edged 0.1 per cent lower, to 8,390.43. Markets in Britain were closed for a bank holiday. The futures for the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average were 0.2 per cent lower. Oil prices surged more than 3 per cent after US forces struck Iranian rocket launchers on the Strait of Hormuz, marking their first military action in a month. The Trump administration just days earlier had shifted its focus to economic pressure, and a return to open conflict would be dangerous for the region. Brent crude, the international standard, jumped 3.8 per cent to USD 91.40 per barrel early Monday. US benchmark crude oil was trading 3.8 per cent higher at USD 86.58 per barrel. The Middle East had finally gone quiet enough for oil traders to start sanding some of the war premium out of crude. Then Sunday arrived, with a reminder that quiet in the Strait of Hormuz is not the same as peace, Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management said in a commentary. Markets in Asia fell following a speech Friday by Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh that reinforced expectations the US central bank will do what is needed, such as raising rates, to bring inflation down despite possible short-term pain for the economy. In Tokyo, the Nikkei 225 lost 0.1 per cent to 66,311.93, while the Kospi in South Korea reversed earlier losses, gaining 0.5 per cent to 6,820.02. Hong Kong's Hang Seng lost 0.1 per cent to 25,566.99 and the Shanghai Composite index gained 0.9 per cent to 3,986.30. Shares in e-commerce and fast fashion giant Shein are due to begin trading in Hong Kong on Tuesday in the city's biggest initial public offering this year, part of a trend toward big Chinese-founded companies raising funds in Chinese markets. An official survey released Monday showed Chinese factory activity remained in contraction for a second straight month in August, though there were slight improvements in some areas such as new export orders and production. Elsewhere in the region, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 lost 0.2 per cent to 9,076.00. Taiwan's Taiex fell 0.4 per cent and the Sensex in India slipped 0.4 per cent. On Friday, the S&P 500 fell 0.2 per cent and the Dow industrials dipped by less than 0.1 per cent. The Nasdaq composite fell 0.5 per cent. In what is seen as a big move for the bond market, the yield on the two-year Treasury, which closely tracks expectations about Fed moves, jumped to 4.35 per cent from 4.22 per cent just before Warsh's speech at an annual economic symposium held in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Worries had grown that his tough talk about getting inflation down to the Fed's 2 per cent target may be just that. The Fed could hike short-term interest rates to get price increases under control, but it could also be reluctant to do so because that would slow the economy and hurt prices for investments. US President Donald Trump, who appointed Warsh, has emphasised he wants lower interest rates. Warsh was adamant again on Friday that he wants to give financial markets fewer clues about what the Fed plans to do with rates for its two jobs of keeping inflation low and the job market strong. But he also said short-term interest rates are the predominant tool for the Fed to do its job. In other dealings early Monday, the US dollar fell to 159.75 Japanese yen from 160.10 yen. It has rebounded after falling for a spell following a rare coordinated intervention by the US Treasury and Japanese regulators in late July. The euro rose to USD 1.1601 from USD 1.1580. (AP)
JK Cong urges CM to intervene for hike in stipend of medical interns
Jammu, Aug 31: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra on Monday urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene in the ongoing protest by medical interns and ensure an early and meaningful enhancement in their stipend. Jammu and Kashmir has probably emerged as the lowest-paying region for MBBS and BDS interns among the states and Union Territories listed in a comparative chart circulated by protesting medical interns, with a monthly stipend of just Rs 12,300, prompting them to launch an indefinite strike on Monday demanding its immediate revision to Rs 30,000. In a letter addressed to the chief minister, Karra said the demand of the protesting medical interns was genuine and deserved sympathetic and immediate consideration. Medical interns constitute an essential part of the healthcare delivery system and shoulder significant responsibilities in hospitals while undergoing their compulsory internship, he said. These young doctors routinely work long and demanding hours, including 36-hour shifts, attending to patients and performing their duties with dedication and commitment, Karra said. He pointed out that the stipend being provided to medical interns in Jammu and Kashmir was considerably lower than that offered in several other parts of the country. When interns elsewhere are being provided better financial support for comparable responsibilities and working hours, the demand of our medical interns for a reasonable enhancement in stipend merits serious consideration, he said. Karra urged Omar to direct the authorities concerned to engage with the protesting interns, listen to their grievances and work towards an early and satisfactory resolution of the issue. The Congress leader said positive government intervention at this stage would not only address a legitimate concern of the medical fraternity but also boost the morale of young doctors who contribute significantly to the functioning of hospitals and healthcare institutions. He hoped the government would prioritise the matter and take necessary steps for a meaningful hike in the stipend of medical interns in Jammu and Kashmir, in line with their responsibilities and the prevailing stipends in other parts of the country. The interns said their stipend had remained unchanged for nearly seven years despite repeated representations and protests, while the cost of living and stipends offered to interns in several other states had increased substantially. According to the comparative figures displayed by the interns, Odisha tops the list with a monthly stipend of Rs 44,319, followed by West Bengal at Rs 43,099 and Assam at Rs 35,000. Karnataka pays Rs 30,000, while Kerala offers Rs 27,300 and Delhi and Meghalaya Rs 26,300 each. The stipend in Telangana is listed at Rs 25,900, while Arunachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh offer Rs 25,000 each. Tamil Nadu's stipend is shown at around Rs 25,000, followed by Haryana at Rs 24,310 and Andhra Pradesh at around Rs 21,840. Gujarat, Bihar, Goa and Himachal Pradesh are listed at around Rs 20,000 a month, while Puducherry offers Rs 18,000.
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Rain, heavy showers likely in J&K over next 24-48 hours: MeT Director
Srinagar, Aug 31: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to experience a spell of rain over the next 24 to 48 hours, with the Meteorological Department forecasting brief intense showers and gusty winds and warning of possible landslides, mudslides and flash floods in vulnerable areas. Director of the Meteorological Department J&K, Mukhtar Ahmad, said weather conditions are expected to become somewhat unsettled from Monday late afternoon and evening, with the Jammu division likely to witness more significant rainfall. Especially today late afternoon and evening, there could be a spell of rain, Ahmad said, adding that some areas may experience light rain, with brief intense showers along with gusty winds. He said heavier spells are likely in the Jammu division from late Monday night into Tuesday morning and again between Tuesday late night and Wednesday early morning. Especially in Jammu, Kathua and adjoining areas, heavier rainfall spells are likely, Ahmad said, adding that in Poonch and Rajouri also, one or two spells of rain during the next 24 to 48 hours can be seen. Landslides, flash floods possible The expected intense showers could trigger weather-related hazards in vulnerable areas. Landslide, mudslide and flash flood are among the possibilities during the spell, Ahmad said, particularly in areas that receive intense rainfall. Brief showers are also likely in other parts of Jammu and Kashmir, although the intensity may vary across different locations. Weather likely to improve from September 2 According to Ahmad, weather conditions are expected to improve from September 2, with no major weather system currently likely to affect J&K until around September 10. From the second onwards, weather will again improve and approximately till September 10, currently there are no chances of any major event, he said. Despite the expected improvement, temperatures are likely to remain relatively high, with generally hot and humid conditions forecast across the region. The weather will generally remain hot and humid, Ahmad said. The rainfall, however, may provide temporary relief from the prevailing heat. Today and tomorrow the weather is likely to remain a little disturbed, especially in the Jammu division, he said, adding that brief showers could lead to some reduction in temperatures. Temperatures likely to dip after mid-September On temperatures, Ahmad said the maximum temperature is currently hovering around 32-33C . At present, the maximum temperature is almost 32-33, he said, adding that a decline could be recorded following the expected rain spell. A more noticeable change in temperatures is likely later in September, with both maximum and minimum temperatures expected to gradually fall. After mid-September, there will anyway be a significant change in temperature, Ahmad said. Especially after September 15, there are chances of temperatures gradually dipping. Farmers advised to continue activities with precautions Meanwhile, Ahmad said farmers can continue their ongoing agricultural activities while taking necessary precautions for weather-sensitive operations. Farmers can continue their farming activities, whether harvesting or other activities, including safe storage, in the coming days as well, he said.
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MBBS, BDS interns protest across J&K, demand hike in internship stipend
Srinagar, Aug 31: MBBS and BDS interns staged peaceful demonstrations at various government medical institutions across Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, demanding an increase in their internship stipend. The protests were held at Government Medical Colleges and SKIMS Bemina, among other institutions, where interns gathered and raised slogans in support of their demand for a revision of the stipend paid during the compulsory internship period. The protesting interns said they work long hours and undertake significant clinical responsibilities during their internship, including assisting doctors, attending to patients and performing duties that contribute to the functioning of healthcare institutions. #Watch | MBBS Interns from GMC Srinagar go on strike, demanding an increase in their monthly stipend pic.twitter.com/TWGvPS5inC Greater Kashmir (@GreaterKashmir) August 31, 2026 They maintained that the existing stipend does not adequately reflect the workload, responsibilities and contribution of interns to the healthcare system. The interns urged the Jammu and Kashmir administration to take up the issue on priority and initiate measures for revising the internship stipend. They also sought the intervention of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo, urging them to consider their demand and take a favourable decision. The demonstrations remained peaceful, with the interns saying they would continue to pursue their demand through democratic and peaceful means. The protesters said an increase in the stipend would provide financial relief to medical and dental graduates during their internship while also recognising the responsibilities they shoulder in government healthcare institutions. The interns have appealed to the authorities to initiate dialogue with their representatives and address the issue at the earliest. (KNS)
Green spaces can reduce urban heat, but their size and condition matter, study finds
Srinagar, Aug 31: Green spaces can help cities fight rising heat, but simply adding more green cover may not be enough. A new study from Lucknow suggests that the size, vegetation condition and surroundings of green patches can determine how much they cool the urban landscape. The study, published in Discover Cities, examined 456 urban and peri-urban green patches in Lucknow using satellite observations from 2019 and 2024. The researchers found that green patches were generally cooler than adjacent built-up areas, with median warm-season surface-temperature differences of about 0.60.8C and local maxima exceeding 2C. The finding is significant as Indian cities face intensifying heat exposure amid rapid construction and vegetation loss. The researchers note that urban regions in the humid subtropics are undergoing rapid land conversion, vegetation loss and intensifying heat exposure, while expansion of impervious surfaces and rising anthropogenic heat emissions are intensifying the urban heat island effect. Against that backdrop, urban greenery can act as a natural cooling mechanism. Parks, institutional campuses, tree belts and other vegetated areas are described in the study as key nature-based solutions for moderating urban microclimates. Through shading, evapotranspiration and changes in surface albedo and roughness, they can create park cool islands that are cooler than surrounding built-up areas. But the study found that bigger does not necessarily mean proportionately cooler. LST (Land Surface Temperature) increases from approximately 1 ha into the medium-size range and then levels off, with diminishing marginal gains for large and very large patches, the researchers report. Their analysis indicates an approximate 810 hectare range beyond which additional area contributes relatively little extra surface-temperature contrast. The researchers suggest that the improvement from very small to medium-sized patches could be associated with more continuous canopy cover, lower proportional edge exposure and improved moisture retention. But they caution that these processes were not directly measured and that factors such as irrigation, hotter surrounding areas, land-cover differences and satellite-pixel effects could also influence the pattern. Vegetation quality emerged as another important factor. The study found strong summer relationships between cooling and several vegetation indicators. Greener, denser and more chlorophyll-rich canopies are cooler relative to their surroundings, the researchers write. These relationships weakened during winter, potentially because of lower canopy activity and reduced evapotranspiration. The cooling signal also extended beyond the boundaries of green patches. The researchers found that surface-temperature contrasts changed most rapidly within roughly 100200 metres of a green patch before flattening or declining towards 500 metres. They stress, however, that this should be interpreted as a neighborhood-scale surface-contrast indicator rather than direct measurement of cooling propagation. The surrounding urban landscape matters because increasing impervious cover can erode the cooling effect. As the study puts it, warming from hot surfaces may partly offset the patch-generated cooling. The researchers conclude that thermal effects are shaped not only by the green patches themselves, but also by the character of the surrounding matrix through which cooling is either sustained or eroded. The implications for urban planning are therefore broader than simply creating large parks. The study supports a conservative planning message: protect existing canopy-rich patches, improve vegetation condition in smaller patches and reduce impervious discontinuities between green spaces. The researchers nevertheless caution against treating their numbers as universal rules. The 810 hectare range, they say, is a context-specific heuristic rather than a general threshold for Indian cities. And because the analysis measured satellite-derived surface temperature rather than air temperature, thermal comfort or health outcomes, the findings should be used as surface-cooling indicators to guide further local planning. For rapidly warming cities, the takeaway is clear: greenery matters, but healthy canopies, strategically sized patches and fewer concrete gaps between them may matter just as much. Srinagar: A city losing its natural cooling shield Srinagar offers a stark local context to the studys findings. A 2023 study, Spatiotemporal analysis of Urban expansion and vegetation change in Srinagar City, found that the citys vegetation cover declined from 43.9 sq km in 2000 to 26.2 sq km in 2020, a loss of about 40%. Dense forest cover fell even more sharply, from 1.02 sq km to 0.38 sq km, with the study estimating that Srinagar lost an average of 17 hectares of green cover every month over the two decades. The loss is particularly significant as Srinagar experiences increasingly intense heat. The city has only about 8% of its area under greenery, while also pointing to the decline of its iconic Chinar trees. About 28,500 Chinars were geo-tagged in January 2025, compared with estimates of 42,00050,000 in the 1990s.
