Police sensitise border residents against terror, infiltration, narco threats in J-K's Poonch
Jammu, Sep 8: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Tuesday held a security awareness meeting with residents of villages along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district, urging them to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious movement or activity from across the border. The Police Community Partnership Group (PCPG) meeting was held at Zero Line in Balakote area of Mendhar sector, under the supervision of Additional Superintendent of Police, Poonch, Ajay Sharma with the objective of strengthening Police-Public coordination, enhancing community participation in security matters and addressing the genuine grievances of the border population, a police spokesperson said. During the meeting, he said the local residents, particularly those from border villages, were sensitised about prevailing security challenges and the importance of remaining vigilant against infiltration, terrorist and anti-national activities, narco-trafficking and other criminal activities. They were advised to promptly report any suspicious persons, vehicles, objects or unusual activities to the Police and security agencies, the spokesperson said. He said the threat of narcotics and narco-trafficking was discussed, with residents urged to share credible information regarding drug-related activities. They were also sensitised about cyber frauds, including fake social-media accounts, phishing links, OTP/PIN frauds and fraudulent banking transactions, and advised to exercise caution during online transactions. Residents raised issues regarding access to border villages, security checks, installation of Smart Fence and the recurring menace of wild boars damaging agricultural crops, the spokesperson said. He said the concerns were heard patiently and it was assured that genuine issues would be taken up with the concerned authorities for appropriate redressal while keeping security requirements in view. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with residents assuring full cooperation to the Police and security forces in maintaining peace, security and harmony along the Zero Line and border areas of Balakote, the spokesperson said.
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Srinagar, Sep 8: Senior IAS officer Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary on Tuesday relinquished charge as Commissioner/Secretary, Department of Youth Services and Sports, Jammu and Kashmir Government, to take up new assignment in the State of Arunachal Pradesh. Shahid Choudhary is a 2009 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from Jammu and Kashmir cadre, who secured an All India Rank 51 in the UPSCs Civil Services Examination for the year 2008. He was the first Muslim from Jammu region and first Gujjar from J&K to get Indian Administrative Service as a direct recruit from IAS. On July 9, 2026, Choudhary was transferred from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh as part of a major reshuffle of AGMUT cadre officers ordered by the centre with immediate effect. In a social media post, Choudhary said: Today, I am relinquishing charge as Commissioner/Secretary to the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to take up my new assignment in the State of Arunachal Pradesh. Jammu & Kashmir is home, and serving its people has been among the most meaningful privileges of my career. I leave with deep gratitude for the trust, affection and goodwill received over the years, and for the immense learning that this land and its people have given me. Every assignment is a new opportunity to learn, contribute and serve. I carry the experiences of J&K with me as I begin this next chapter, with humility, optimism and sincere commitment to public service. Grateful for the journey. Ready for what lies ahead.
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SKIMS Bemina Issues Show-cause Notice to CRMIs Over Absence from Duties
SRINAGAR: The authorities at SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, have issued show-cause notices to Clinical Resident Medical Interns (CRMIs) allegedly found absent from their duties for the past one week, stating that their absence has adversely affected patient care and emergency services at the hospital. According to the notice, the administration has taken serious note of []
India faces higher oil import costs as crude prices surge on West Asia supply risks
International crude prices surged, impacting India's oil import bill and inflation. Escalating West Asia tensions raised concerns about global supply disruptions. India, a major oil importer, faces pressure on its trade balance and currency. Fuel retailers may experience margin pressure as crude prices cross USD 100. The disruption affects energy flows and petrochemical feedstocks across Asia.
LG Saxena to administer oath to J&K, Ladakh HC chief justice
Leh, Sep 8: For the first time since Ladakh became a Union Territory in August 2019, its Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena, will administer the oath of office to Dr Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati as Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh on September 9, highly placed official sources said on Tuesday. The ceremony will take place at 11 am at the Convention Centre in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, the sources said. On September 5, President Droupadi Murmu had appointed Justice Bhati, a judge of the Rajasthan High Court, as Chief Justice of the J&K and Ladakh High Court, with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office. He will succeed Justice Sanjeev Kumar, who has been serving as the Acting Chief Justice since June 2. Traditionally, the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor has administered the oath of office to a newly appointed Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh. However, this time, Ladakh Lt Governor Saxena has been designated to administer the oath to Justice Bhati, marking a first for the Union Territory. The Supreme Court Collegium had recommended Justice Bhati's name for Chief Justice of J&K and Ladakh High Court on August 31. Justice Bhati is a senior Judge with extensive judicial experience. He was elevated to the Bench on November 16, 2016.
Sun Pharma gets ratings boost from Moody's, S&P over USD 11.75-bn Organon & Co acquisition bid
Rating agencies Moody's and S&P assigned investment-grade ratings to Sun Pharmaceutical Industries. This action follows Sun Pharma's proposed acquisition of US-based Organon & Co. The deal is expected to significantly bolster Sun Pharma's business position and revenue base. Organon will contribute substantially to the group's earnings after the acquisition. This strategic move will enhance Sun Pharma's scale and geographic reach.
GMC Anantnag interns condemn show-cause notices to student representatives
Anantnag, Sep 08: MBBS Interns of the Government Medical College Anantnag strongly condemned the issuance of a show-cause notice to the two student representatives- Dr. Mohammad Akib Javid and Dr. Runga Zamin Javaid- in connection with the ongoing interns protest for their legitimate stipend demands. In a statement, the MBBS interns said, It is deeply concerning that, out of the entire group of protesting interns, the administration has chosen to issue the notice specifically to the two representatives who have been communicating the collective concerns of the interns. We believe that raising genuine grievances and representing fellow students cannot be equated with gross indiscipline or professional misconduct, it added. The notice issued by the medical college warns of the possibility of curtailment, temporary suspension and even cancellation of internship. Reacting to the move, the interns said that such a language is extremely intimidating and has created a sense of fear among interns who are simply demanding their legitimate rights. They said that student representation is not misconduct and raising legitimate concerns is not an act of indiscipline. They urged authorities to engage with the representatives through dialogue rather than threatening them with punitive action. We remain respectful of the institution and the authorities, but respect must be mutual, the statement said. The internee students appealed to the administration and the concerned authorities to withdraw the notice and resolve the stipend issue through meaningful dialogue rather than coercion or intimidation. Our representatives will not be abandoned. We stand united, and our demand for justice, dignity and a fair stipend will continue peacefully and democratically, the students said.
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MBBS, BDS interns begin hunger strike at GMC Srinagar over stipend hike
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'Naraz Fufa ji' now has work, says Modi after inaugurating freight corridor
Vadodara, Sep 08: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday slammed those who question his governments development record, once again calling them as Naraz Fufa (angry uncle). Speaking at the NaMo for Viksit Bharat programme in Gujarats Vadodara, where he inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for Rs 35,000 crore development projects, Modi said the country's work culture has transformed over the last 12 years after the BJP came to power. The projects include a 2,800-kilometre dedicated freight corridor, which Modi called a historic achievement for the 21st century. Taking a swipe at those who would question the utility of the corridor project, Modi said, One Naraz Fufa ji will say: What will the truck drivers do? Naraz Fufa now has work, he said, without naming Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. After 2014, India built 50,000 modern rail coaches but the previous (Congress) regime could not build even 50,000 toilets in 10 years, Modi said. Modi inaugurated three key sections of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor, connecting Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Navi Mumbai with Dadri in Uttar Pradesh, marking completion of the project. Dedicated freight corridors are the lifeline of a fast-developing India. Indias transformation is accelerating because of this modern freight network, Modi said. Earlier, passenger and goods trains had to run on the same tracks, slowing down both passenger travel and freight movement but the Dedicated Freight Corridor has changed this, he said. After 2014, with your blessings, when I reached Delhi, and as soon as we arrived there, we began accelerating this project. Work on the 2,800 km dedicated freight corridors has been completed today, he said. Today, the Eastern and Western Freight Corridors are becoming the main backbone of the country's trade and business, Modi said. The 2,800-km long Dedicated Freight Corridor a testament to how the country's work culture has transformed over the past 12 years, Modi said. The idea for this Dedicated Freight Corridor began in 2004. In 2006, a special company was established to carry out this work, and until 2014, files just kept shuffling from one place to another. Unfortunately, even these files weren't fortunate enough to get a dedicated corridor. The files would get stuck, hang around and wander aimlessly, Modi said. Modi took a swipe at Rahul Gandhi's 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' initiative, saying youngsters would stand with the truth and not be misled by what he termed Jhooth ki Goonj (echo of lies). At every nook and corner, you will find people who will try to mislead you through 'Jooth Ki Goonj', but today's youth will stand with the truth, the PM said. 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' is a student-dialogue campaign launched by the Congress, under which programmes are being organised in various cities across the country. Through the campaign, the Opposition party is attempting to corner the ruling BJP on issues such as exam question paper leaks, costly education, irregularities in government recruitment and unemployment. The prime minister said the youth could see how focused the government was on working across sectors, including solar, wind, hydro and nuclear energy. Modi also urged the youth to develop expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI). The youth of the country have to become experts in AI, and we want our youth to excel in the field, he added. Modi flagged off freight train services from New Sanand, New Makarpura, New Umbergaon and New JNPT in Navi Mumbai. He also flagged off a passenger train service between Tanda Road and Vadodara.
GMC Anantnag MBBS interns begin hunger strike over stipend hike, protest enters day 9
Promote PM Package teachers, other employees: AMEAK
Srinagar, Sep 7:Stating that working without a promotion for the last 16 years amounts to gross injustice, the All-Migrant Employees Association Kashmir (AMEAK) has demanded the promotion of teachers, MTS employees and Data Entry Operators appointed under the Prime Ministers Package since 2010 to address their long-pending grievance of professional stagnation. In a press statement, AMEAK President RubonSaproo, as per a statement issued on Monday, said that nearly 70 percent of the employees appointed under the PM Package in 2010 were teachers, but unfortunately, they have not been granted any promotion to date despite having completed the requisite years of service. He said MTS employees of the Revenue Department and Data Entry Operators in the Finance Department were also facing a similar issue where the MTS employees of the Finance Department had already undergone the DPC process but were awaiting the formal issuance of promotion orders. He also pointed out that Government Order No. JK-34-DMRRR, issued in 2022, already provides a mechanism under which PM Package employees can be considered for promotion. The order envisages the framing of a parallel promotion list corresponding to the general cadre for granting promotions to package employees, however, their promotions should not be linked to promotions in the general cadre, as the PM Package is supernumerary and distinct in nature. Appealing to the government to implement the provisions of the 2022 order in letter and spirit, Saproo said that despite the existence of a specific government order facilitating the promotion of package employees, teachers appointed under the package have remained deprived of this basic career benefit for years. Nearly 80 percent of the package teachers appointed in 2010 are likely to retire within the next six to ten years and not granting them promotion is not only unjust but also defeats the very purpose of the provisions made for these employees, he said. He further stressed that MTS employees of the Revenue Department and Data Entry Operators of the Finance Department deserve fair treatment in matters of promotion. He called for the immediate issuance of formal promotion orders in favour of the MTS employees of the Finance Department, who have already completed the DPC process. These employees have rendered more than a decade of service under extremely difficult circumstances and keeping them stagnated at the same level since their appointment is neither fair nor consistent with the spirit of the government order, Saproo said.
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Former minister Mohammad Syed Akhoon pays tribute to Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah
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Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia wound 73 people, officials say
Cairo, Sep 08: More than 70 people were wounded in a wave of Houthi attacks Tuesday on Saudi Arabia, authorities said, a major escalation in the renewed conflict between an important US ally and the Iranian-backed rebels in Yemen. The attacks come after weeks of escalating clashes between the Houthis and Saudi-backed government forces in Yemen, which shattered a four-year truce in the country's civil war. Fighting has raged on fronts including Yemen's west coast, with government forces saying they have made territorial gains in the provinces of Hodeida, Taiz and Baydah. The Houthi have also launched attacks on Saudi oil facilities and tankers in the Red Sea. The attacks early Tuesday hit civilian and economic facilities in the Saudi cities of Abha's Jazan, Najran and Khamis Mushait said Maj Gen. Turki al-Malki, a spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen, said in a statement. Al-Malki said the attacks wounded 73 people, including women and children. He didn't provide a breakdown or further details. He called the attacks a serious escalation and a flagrant violation of the kingdom's sovereignty, and a direct threat to the security and safety of its citizens and residents. Al-Malki vowed retaliation, saying that the Saudi-led coalition will take all necessary operational measures to deter the terrorist Houthi militia with utmost resolve. The Houthis did not comment on the attacks, but said a statement about a large-scale military operation deep inside Saudi Arabia would be released. Nasruddin Amer, deputy head of the Houthi media office overseeing the Saba news agency run by the rebels, took to social media to laud the attacks. The Saudi enemy has to understand that the time for committing crimes and massacres against the Yemeni people without response, deterrence, or paying a price has ended, he said. The attacks came hours after the rebels blamed Saudi Arabia for an airstrike that hit a prison in Yemen's northern province of Jawf. At least seven people, including a child, were killed and seven others were wounded in the strike in the city of Hazem, the Houthis said Yemen's civil war began in 2014 when the Houthis seized the capital, Sanaa, and much of northern Yemen and forced the government into exile. A Saudi-led coalition, including the United Arab Emirates, intervened the following year to try to restore the government to power. Tensions rose earlier this year between US allies Saudi Arabia and the UAE as their partnership in the war in Yemen broke down, leading to the UAE pulling out of Yemen. The civil war in Yemen has killed at least 150,000 people, according to UN estimates, and at times pushed the country to the brink of famine.
Doctors issue genuine, needs early resolution, says Tanvir Sadiq
Srinagar, Sep 08: National Conference leader Tanvir Sadiq on Monday backed the protesting doctors in Jammu and Kashmir, saying their concerns were genuine and should be resolved at the earliest while condemning any threats issued against them. Sadiq said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had acknowledged the issue and that Health Minister Sakina Itoo was personally looking into it. Omar Sahib said yesterday that this is certainly a genuine issue and that it needs to be resolved at the earliest, Sadiq said. That is why our honourable Minister, Sakina Ji, is personally looking into it. Inshallah, we hope that a resolution will be reached as soon as possible. Asked about reports that protesting doctors had received threats, Sadiq strongly condemned any such threats and defended their right to demonstrate. If there are threats, that is very wrong. They are our children; they are the sons and daughters of the soil, he said. Sadiq added that protesting was a legitimate democratic right as long as it was conducted peacefully. They have every right to protest. We have always said that everyone has the right to protest in a democratic manner, and they have that right too, he said, adding that efforts would continue to address their concerns. His remarks came ahead of the upcoming Assembly session, where the doctors issue is expected to be among the matters raised by members. On the Oppositions likely strategy in the Assembly, Sadiq said the BJP had every right to question the government but should focus on issues concerning the people. They do that; it is the job of the Opposition. We have no problem if they raise issues, he said. One thing we need to understand is that questions concerning the people are raised in the Assembly, bills are introduced and resolutions are brought. The Assembly is an important platform where we can speak about the concerns of the people, he said, urging the Opposition to use the House to raise public issues. My advice would be that the Opposition should allow the issues of the people to be discussed in the Assembly and should put forward its own views. They have a right to do so, and they should certainly exercise that right, Sadiq said. Sadiq was also asked about the legacy of National Conference founder Sheikh Abdullah, and said his contribution to Jammu and Kashmir could not be adequately described. Whatever we say in praise of Sher-e-Kashmirs contribution to every sphere of Jammu and Kashmir and to the country is not enough, he said, citing his contributions to education, healthcare and social reform. He particularly referred to Sheikh Abdullahs land reforms, saying that the land to the tiller policy transformed the lives of people by giving them ownership of the land they cultivated. Sadiq also credited Sheikh Abdullah with laying the foundations that enabled generations of students from Jammu and Kashmir to pursue education across India and abroad, and highlighted his contribution to womens representation and the development of educational and agricultural institutions in the region.
NC pays tribute to Sheikh Abdullah on his 44th death anniversary
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NC pays tribute to Sheikh Abdullah on 44th death anniversary
Srinagar, Sept 08: The National Conference on Tuesday paid tributes to party founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on his 44th death anniversary in Srinagars Naseem Bagh. According to details, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and NC president Dr Farooq Abdullah visited the grave of Sheikh Abdullah and paid floral tributes. They also offered Fateha and prayed at his grave. Several NC leaders, MLAs, senior party functionaries, workers and supporters also gathered in Naseem Bagh and paid tributes to the late leader. Notably, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, popularly known as Sher-e-Kashmir, was the founder of the National Conference and served as the first elected Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. He died on September 8, 1982. (KNO)
Stock markets decline in early trade amid rising oil prices, West Asia crisis
Film festival to open new avenues for Kashmiri youth: Waqf Chairperson
Srinagar, Sep 08: Waqf Chairperson Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi has said Kashmir has once again regained its vibrancy, as the Valley hosts its maiden International Film Festival, reflecting a significant cultural turnaround in the Union Territory. Speaking at the four-day festival themed Rang-e-Cinema in Srinagar, Dr. Andrabi as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) said the growing cultural activities and public participation in the region were indicative of the changing social atmosphere under the prevailing peaceful environment. Such platforms offer a vital opportunity to present the Valley's rich cultural heritage, creativity, and evolving identity to a global audience, she said. The festival, which has received over 1,100 entries from 80 countries, also features a floating cinema on Dal Lake, marking a first for the region. Dr. Andrabi, who has previously termed the current phase as one of peace and development, said initiatives like these are helping reconnect Kashmir with the global community while creating new avenues for local youth. Notably, The event is being seen as part of the broader push by the administration to promote cultural and cinematic activities in the Union Territory post-2019. (KNS)
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Motorcyclist dies in accident at Kalai in J&K's Poonch
Poonch, Sep 08: A motorcycle rider was killed on the spot after being hit by an unknown vehicle near Kalai in Poonch district, officials said. The deceased has been identified as Mehmood Ahmed, son of Abdul Latief, a resident of Khanater, Poonch. According to reports, Ahmed was riding his motorcycle when the unidentified vehicle hit him near Kalai, resulting in his death on the spot. Police have taken cognizance of the incident and started an investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the accident and identify the vehicle involved.
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Biocon signs 10-year Brazil supply deal for Pertuzumab breast cancer drug
In a significant move, Biocon has secured a ten-year contract in Brazil for the distribution of Pertuzumab, made possible through its collaboration with Bahiafarma and Bionovis. This partnership offers exclusive rights to supply the public healthcare sector in Brazil, with plans for phased localization of production. This endeavor aims to improve accessibility to critical cancer therapies while fostering local industry growth.
Thane teen with 95.7 pc marks ends life after failing to get entry into college of choice
Thane, Sep 08: A 17yearold student, who had scored 95.7 per cent marks in his Class 12 science exams, allegedly died by suicide in Maharashtra's Thane city after failing to secure admission to his preferred higher education institute, police said. The boy, whose family resided in an upscale housing complex in Hiranandani Estate on Ghodbunder Road, sent a message to his family's WhatsApp group stating his intention to end his life. However, before anyone could intervene, the boy jumped to his death from the 22nd-floor refuge area of a residential building on September 4 evening, the police said on Monday. According to police, the boy's family suspects no foul play, attributing the extreme step entirely to academic distress. The teenager recently passed his Class 12 science exams with a score of 95.7 per cent and aspired to pursue a BS-MS dual degree at the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST), Shibpur (Kolkata), the police said. However, he fell short of securing a seat after ranking 10,474 in the aptitude test. His disappointment deepened after failing to secure admission in the reputed institute, they said. According to police, the teenager left his residence around 7.30 pm on September 4, telling his family he was going for cycling. At around 8.15 pm, he sent a message to his family's WhatsApp group stating his intention to end his life. Upon seeing the message and finding his phone switched off, his family immediately alerted the Kasarvadavali police. The police and family members rushed to search the locality and found the teenager lying severely injured on a pavement near his apartment. He was rushed to the Civil Hospital in Thane, where doctors declared him dead on arrival, the police said. An accidental death report (ADR) has been registered based on a statement given by the deceased's father.
SKUAST-K, Bio-Enzyme Academy join hands to turn waste into wealth in J&K
Srinagar, Sept 7: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir) has joined hands with the Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India, Bengaluru, to promote bio-enzyme entrepreneurship as a waste-to-wealth opportunity and create avenues for self-employment among students, farmers and rural entrepreneurs in Jammu and Kashmir. A one-week Certificate Course on Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurship was inaugurated today at the Vice Chancellors Secretariat, Shalimar Main Campus. Organised by the SKUAST-K Innovation and Incubation Entrepreneurship Centre (SKIIE) in collaboration with the Academy, the programme focuses on hands-on training in bio-enzyme production, value addition and marketing, with an emphasis on developing sustainable micro-enterprises. The inaugural function was attended by senior officers and faculty members of the University, along with academicians, scientists, entrepreneurs and trainee participants. Guests of Honour included Priti Rao, President, Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India; Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension; Prof. M. Altaf Bhat, Director Education; Prof. Azmat Alam Khan, Registrar; Er. Ab Rashid Bhat; Mahendra Pyati; and B.C. Kiran. Speaking on the occasion, the Vice Chancellor appreciated SKIIE for introducing the innovative programme and stressed the potential of converting agricultural and kitchen waste into value-added, eco-friendly products. He said such initiatives align with the Universitys mandate of translating research and knowledge into entrepreneurship and self-reliance, and encouraged participants to use the training to establish enterprises and contribute to the green economy. Priti Rao highlighted the national scope of bio-enzyme-based enterprises and apprised participants of the technical and market support available through the Academy. The programme commenced with a welcome address by the CEO, SKIIE Centre. During the event, the University and the Bio-Enzyme Entrepreneurs Academy of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in the field. A booklet titled A Genuine Startup Dosage: Hazrat Sheikh ul Alam (RA) Entrepreneurship Model, authored by Naveed Hamid, CEO, SKIIE Centre, was also launched. The event further witnessed the launch of startup products of M/s XYVA Naturals Pvt. Ltd. and the SKUAST-K SAFART Passport, conceptualised by Naveed Hamid and developed by Muaolim, B.Tech Biotechnology student. The week-long training will cover bio-enzyme preparation, quality control, packaging, branding, business planning and marketing, besides on-site visits to landfills, waste areas and fruit mandis. The programme combines classroom sessions, hands-on demonstrations and interactions with resource persons and industry experts.
Amid global turmoil, India maintained momentum of its economic growth: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said India had maintained the momentum of its economic growth despite global geopolitical turmoil as it engaged with other countries and built strategic partnerships in key areas. He asserted Indias reach in the diplomatic world was increasing and it had concluded nine free trade agreements (FTAs) by 2026, noting wider economic engagement helped the country record GDP growth rate of 7.8 per cent for the first quarter (April-June) of the financial year 2026-27. Addressing a function organised in Panaji to confer the Presidents Colour on the Goa Police, Shah said the global diplomatic landscape had remained turbulent over the past years due to the Russia-Ukraine war and now the conflict involving the US, Iran and Gulf countries. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi travelled to 22 countries over the past year, while heads of state from around 15 countries visited India during the same period. At a time when the whole world was grappling with uncertainty over its economic growth because of this (geopolitical) turmoil, we engaged with other countries, presented strategic partnerships and maintained the momentum of our economic growth, Shah stressed. India has entered into concrete agreements in areas such as defence, technology, energy, investment and trade, he noted. Shah said India had concluded nine free trade agreements by 2026, while FTAs had been proposed with 38 countries as effective trade arrangements. India was pursuing FTAs with the UAE, Australia, the UK, Oman, New Zealand and the European Union with the objective of increasing trade, stated the Union minister. This is also one of the reasons why, in the first quarter of this (fiscal) year, our GDP recorded a robust growth of 7.8 per cent, Shah said. Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant was also present for the function.
J&K Govt, IIM Jammu, NIT Srinagar sign MoU to boost startup ecosystem under Mission YUVA
NIT Srinagar, IIM Jammus YUVA Innovation Hub and Directorate of Employment (Department of Labour & Employment), Government of J&K through Mission YUVA have entered into a tripartite MoU to strengthen the startup and innovation ecosystem across the UT. The five-year MoU, executed at NIT Srinagar, brings Greenovator Incubation Foundation (GIF), NIT Srinagar, into the YUVA incubation ecosystem as a regional incubation node for supporting Neo-Innovative Enterprises in Kashmir. The agreement was signed by Director, NIT Srinagar and Chairman, Greenovator Incubation Foundation; Prof. Anurag Misra, Chairperson, Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Skill Development (CEISD), IIM Jammu/Srinagar Campus Dr Muqbil Burhan, and acknowledged by Director Employment and Mission Director, Mission YUVA, Harvinder Singh (IAS), J&K, on behalf of the Government. The MoU is part of the Government of J&Ks Mission YUVANeo-Innovative Enterprises, a flagship entrepreneurship development initiative aimed at establishing a vibrant startup and innovation ecosystem across the Union Territory. Under the mission, the Government seeks to train, incubate and support 500 Neo-Innovative Enterprises over five years from 2025 to 2030, through YUVA Innovation Hubs anchored at IIM Jammu and a network of YUVA Incubation Centres across J&K. The YUVA Innovation Hub, operationalised at IIM Jammus Jammu and Srinagar campuses under CEISD, will serve as the nodal body for the Mission YUVA ecosystem, providing strategic direction, coordination, training, mentorship and investor linkages. Speaking on the occasion, Harvinder Singh, Director Employment and MD, Mission YUVA, said the partnership would strengthen the institutional mechanism being created under Mission YUVA for nurturing innovative enterprises in the Union Territory. Mission YUVA is aimed at creating a sustainable entrepreneurship ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir by connecting young innovators with incubation, mentorship, technology, markets and finance. The partnership between the YUVA Innovation Hub, Greenovator Incubation Foundation and the Government will provide a strong institutional platform for converting innovative ideas into viable enterprises and creating employment opportunities, he said. Later, Singh visited the Greenovator Incubation Foundation at NIT Srinagar, where he reviewed the incubation facilities and interacted with officials associated with the institutes entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem. Under the tripartite collaboration, GIF, NIT Srinagar, will function as a regional incubation node and support the identification, incubation and development of early-stage innovative enterprises in Kashmir. The incubation centres focus areas include nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, cybersecurity and robotics.
Axis Bank inaugurates 61st branch in J&K at Lal Bazar
Axis Bank on Monday inaugurated its new branch at Lal Bazar in Srinagar, taking its total number of branches in Jammu and Kashmir to 61. The branch was inaugurated by Shailendra Kumar, IAS, Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary) and Head of the Finance Department, in the presence of Reynold DSouza, Group Head, Branch Banking and TASC Business; Sheikh Gowhar, Cluster Head; Adil Shah and Syed Majid, Branch Head. The inauguration ceremony was attended by customers and residents from the branchs catchment area. The new branch will provide a range of banking and financial services, including cash credit and term loan facilities, consumer loans, gold loans, credit cards, business loans and other retail and business banking solutions. The bank said the new branch is part of its ongoing expansion across J&K, with a focus on strengthening its presence in key locations and providing accessible banking services to individuals, entrepreneurs and businesses. The Lal Bazar branch is expected to cater to the growing financial requirements of customers in the area and surrounding localities, while supporting local businesses, entrepreneurship and financial inclusion. The inauguration also coincides with Axis Banks Sparsh Week, a nationwide customer-connect initiative being observed from September 7 to 14. During the week, senior officials and leadership teams of the bank are visiting cities and locations across the country to meet customers, understand their evolving financial requirements and strengthen customer relationships. As part of the initiative, Axis Bank plans to connect with around 2.5 lakh customers across the country, covering locations from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kutch to Kohima. The bank said the initiative reflects its focus on strengthening customer relationships and providing more personalised and customer-centric banking solutions.
J&K Bank contemplating special OTS for stressed borrowers: MD tells FCIK
In a major development for stressed businesses, J&K Bank Managing Director and CEO Amitava Chatterjee disclosed that the Bank is contemplating a lucrative Special One-Time Settlement Scheme, which may be unveiled alongside the new Industrial Policy being formulated by the J&K Government. The disclosure became the focal point of a marathon meeting between J&K Banks senior management and a broad-based delegation of the Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK). While the MD did not disclose the contours of the proposed scheme, he indicated that it was intended to provide meaningful relief and closure to stressed accounts. FCIK welcomed the proposal but reiterated its demand for replication of SBI OTS-2020, without dilution, exclusively for borrowers in J&K and Ladakh. It said businesses in the region had accumulated legacy debt under circumstances unmatched elsewhere, including over three decades of turmoil, disruptions and natural calamities. The meeting was chaired by Chatterjee and attended by Executive Director Sudhir Gupta; Chief General Managers Imtiyaz Ahmad, Ashutosh Sareen and Rajesh Tickoo Malla; General Managers Tariq Ahmad and Arshid Qadiri; Deputy General Managers Tanveer Farooqi and Shameem Ahmad; and other senior officers. The FCIK delegation, led by Advisory Committee Head Shahid Kamili, included former Presidents Meraj Qureshi and Shakeel Qalander, besides elected Presidents of industrial estate-based and district-based associations from across the Kashmir Valley. FCIK presented a comprehensive memorandum covering credit flow, revival of sick units, regularisation and restructuring of stressed accounts, interest rates, collateral requirements, delayed receivables, government-backed credit schemes, recovery practices, banking infrastructure and procurement from local MSMEs. The MD responded to the issues individually, announced resolutions on several matters on the spot and issued instructions to the concerned officers. He assured greater credit flow through CGTMSE and other government-backed schemes and agreed to examine anomalies relating to higher interest rates in certain cases. Chatterjee also accepted FCIKs invitation to visit industrial estates and districts for direct interaction with entrepreneurs. The Bank will organise camps in association with local industrial bodies to assess credit requirements, present its financial products and resolve pending matters wherever possible. FCIK said such outreach was essential as competing banks were entering industrial estates with attractive rates, concessions and loan-takeover offers. The Federation and its constituent associations offered to help protect J&K Banks traditional customer base, provided legitimate concerns were addressed through competitive and responsive services. The Federation sought a dedicated MSME Facilitation and Resolution Cell under an Executive Director or Chief General Manager. It proposed that pending cases relating to additional finance, renewal, enhancement, regularisation, restructuring, revival and settlement be placed before the Cell for time-bound resolution. Elected estate and district Presidents, along with FCIK representatives, offered to assist the Bank in finding mutually acceptable, case-specific solutions. FCIK also sought a temporary pause on coercive recovery against genuine MSMEs while their cases were examined, clarifying that the protection should not extend to fraud, wilful default or diversion of funds. Other proposals included a rehabilitation package for potentially viable sick units, wider implementation of TReDS for delayed receivables, rational collateral and guarantee requirements, prompt regularisation of eligible accounts after clearance of arrears, and greater participation of proven local MSMEs in the Banks procurement. FCIK appreciated the Banks profitability, improved asset quality and progress in priority-sector lending, including surpassing its lending obligations. While acknowledging improvement in the CreditDeposit Ratio, it said greater local deployment of credit and balanced lending across all regions and sub-regions remained necessary. With an estimated 40,000 or more manufacturing and processing units across J&K, FCIK said the revival of stressed enterprises and expansion of units operating below capacity offered the Bank a major credit opportunity. The Federation also affirmed that J&K Bank must remain completely insulated from politics and should never become a tool for partisan interests. It should continue as a professionally managed commercial and developmental institution devoted to economic growth, productive investment and employment generation in J&K. The meeting concluded with both sides favouring sustained institutional dialogue and amicable resolution of issues. FCIK expressed hope that a liberal and transparent Special OTS would give deserving borrowers a dignified exit from legacy debt and open a fresh chapter in the relationship between J&K Bank and the regions business community.
Inter-District Division Level: Girls Kho-Kho tournament held in Kathua
Kathua, Sep 7: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma Monday inaugurated the Inter-District Division Level Kho-Kho Tournament (All Age Group Girls)-2026, organised by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, J&K UT, at Trikuta Palace, Dayala Chack, here on Monday. Under-17 Kho-Kho teams from various districts of Jammu Division, including Samba, Udhampur, Reasi, Rajouri, Doda, Jammu, Kishtwar, Kathua, Poonch and Ramban, participated in the tournament along with Physical Education Teachers and officials. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner, as per an official statement, appreciated the initiative of the Department of Youth Services and Sports and said that such sporting events provide valuable exposure to young athletes besides providing them a platform to nurture and showcase their sporting talent. He said that participation in sports inculcates qualities such as discipline, teamwork, leadership, confidence and perseverance. It also teaches players to respect others, follow rules and accept both victory and defeat gracefully. Sports further contribute to physical fitness, mental strength, decision-making skills and a positive attitude, helping young players grow into responsible, confident and successful individuals. Earlier, District Youth Services and Sports Officer Sunil Kumar welcomed the Chief Guest, other guests, participating players and their accompanying teachers. All participating players and officials also took the Tournament Pledge, committing themselves to fair play, discipline and the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Khelo India Scheme implementation reviewed in Kulgam
Kulgam, Sep 7: Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Alam, on Monday chaired a meeting to review the implementation and monitoring of the Khelo India Scheme for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31 in the district. The meeting, as per an official statement, was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Viqar Ahmed Giri, Chief Planning Officer Malik Suheel, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Reyaz Ahmad Shah, Assistant Commissioner Development Bilal Ahmad Kamgar, besides officers from the Department of Youth Services & Sports and other concerned departments. The meeting held detailed deliberations on various aspects concerning the rollout of the Scheme in the district, including identification of eligible institutions, development of sports infrastructure and effective convergence among the concerned departments. The Deputy Commissioner informed the participants that the Government of India has approved the Khelo India Scheme for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31 with the objective of establishing an integrated grassroots-to-elite talent development pathway for nurturing sporting talent across the country. The meeting also discussed the proposed upgradation of eligible schools into Khelo India Excellence Schools, Khelo India Feeder Schools and Khelo India Centres. The participants deliberated on the scope for identifying gaps in sports infrastructure at the district level and proposing them for funding under the Scheme, subject to the issuance of operational guidelines by the Ministry. The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned officers to undertake a comprehensive assessment of existing sports infrastructure and identify eligible institutions with potential for inclusion under the Scheme. He called for timely preparation of proposals for their submission through the appropriate UT-level channel. Shahzad Alam stressed the importance of coordinated efforts by all stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the Scheme and to create enhanced opportunities.
Srinagar Sports Festival concludes with National Sports Club, Scholars School clinching titles
Srinagar, Sep 7: The Srinagar Sports Festival 2026, organised by the National Sports Club, Rajbagh, under the aegis of Hockey Jammu & Kashmir, in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council, concluded on Monday at Scholars School, Dara Harwan, with an impressive closing ceremony. The two-day festival, as per a statement, witnessed enthusiastic participation of young players in Hockey, Football, Swimming, Carrom and Athletics, along with the presence of several prominent national and international sports personalities who encouraged and motivated the participating youngsters. In the Hockey Final, National Sports Club defeated Scholars School, Dara Harwan, by 42 in an exciting and competitive encounter to claim the title. In the Football Final, Scholars School defeated Global School, Budgam, by 41 and emerged champions. In Swimming, Scholars School dominated the competition by securing the first, second and third positions. In Carrom, Scholars School secured first position, Grover School second and Usmania School third. The 1500-metre event was also dominated by Scholars School athletes, who secured all three positions. The closing ceremony was attended by the SHO of the concerned Police Station as Chief Guest, while the Chairman, Scholars School, was the Guest of Honour. Principals and representatives of several schools, along with sports personalities, coaches, officials, parents and players, were present on the occasion. The Chief Guest, Guest of Honour and distinguished sports personalities distributed gold, silver and other medals, along with trophies, among the winners and participants. Speaking on the occasion, Raja Ghulam Nabi Wani, Secretary, National Sports Club, expressed sincere gratitude to all the players, parents, schools, principals, coaches, officials and volunteers for their valuable cooperation and contribution towards making the Srinagar Sports Festival 2026 a grand success. He emphasised that sports and education should go hand in hand, and called upon parents and educational institutions to encourage children to excel both in academics and sports. The festival provided a valuable platform for young athletes to demonstrate their talent while promoting discipline, teamwork, confidence, leadership and a healthy sporting spirit among children. The organisers reaffirmed their commitment to promoting grassroots sports and providing greater opportunities to the young sporting talent of Jammu & Kashmir.
Sanctorum North United FC beat United Elegant FC 3-2
Srinagar, Sep 7: Sanctorum North United FC defeated United Elegant FC 3-2 in a thrilling encounter in the Khyber Cement Kashmir Super League (KSL) Season 2 at the TRC Ground here on Monday. The five-goal contest, as per a statement, produced an intense battle between the two sides, with both teams showing attacking intent throughout the match. Sanctorum North United FC eventually held their nerve to secure all three points. For United Elegant FC, Fredrick Marshal and Aakif Reshi found the net, scoring one goal each. Sanctorum North United FC's goals came from Ifham Tariq, Raha Musharraf and Farhan Magray, with the trio helping their side edge the contest 3-2. The victory gives Sanctorum North United FC a valuable points in their KSL Season 2 campaign, while United Elegant FC will look to bounce back in their next fixture. Meanwhile, the KSL Season 2 action will continue on Tuesday when Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC take on Swift Strikers FC Rainawari at the TRC Ground. The fixture will provide both teams with another opportunity to strengthen their position in the competition as the six franchises battle for the KSL crown. The second edition of the league features United Elegant FC, Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC, Athwas India XI FC, Sanctorum North United FC, New JK United FC and Swift Strikers FC Rainawari.
2 bodies recovered from power canalin Kangan
Two bodies, including those of a girl and a youth, were recovered from a power canal in the Thune area of Kangan in Ganderbal district on Monday, officials said. According to officials, the duo had reportedly drowned in the canal earlier in the day, following which a rescue operation was launched in the area. Teams from the police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local volunteers rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident and began an extensive search operation along the canal. After several hours of searching, rescuers located and recovered both bodies from the water. The bodies were subsequently shifted to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Kangan for medico-legal formalities. They were later handed over to the respective families. Police have initiated proceedings in connection with the incident, while further investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances leading to the drowning.
Ujala Cygnus, Marengo Asia Hospitals launch dedicated liver transplant, HPB OPD in Srinagar
Srinagar, Sep 7: Ujala Cygnus Amandeep BR Medicity, in association with Marengo Asia Hospitals, launched a dedicated Liver Transplant &Hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) OPD in Srinagar, to be held 1st Monday of every month, led personally by Dr Punit Singla, Clinical Director & Head of Department, Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery, who has so far done over 2500 liver transplants. The initiative, as per a statement issued on Monday, is designed to bring specialised liver care, expert consultation and patient counselling directly to the people of Kashmir, reducing the need to travel outside the Valley for every stage of evaluation and follow-up. Beyond clinical consultations, the OPD has been conceived as an awareness and conversation initiative for a region where liver disease is increasingly common but where understanding of its risks, progression and treatment options remains limited. Patients will have access to expert consultations on complex GI surgeries & liver and Pancreas surgeries, multidisciplinary case discussions, second opinions, pre-transplant evaluation, post-transplant follow-up and comprehensive treatment planning, closer to home.
Statehood, reservation, release of jailed youth raised with Centre: Tanvir Sadiq
Srinagar, Sep 7: The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq Monday said the restoration of statehood, the reservation policy and the release of Jammu & Kashmir youth languishing in jails were raised by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah with the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister. He said that these important matters were forcefully taken up during the meeting held in recent days. As per a party statement issued, he reiterated that the National Conference has already made it clear that the party itself will decide the place, time, nature and scale of any protest. Whether a protest will be large or limited, and whether it will involve ten people or ten thousand, will be decided by the party leadership. He said that during the march towards the BJP headquarters, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament and Members of the Legislative Assembly had participated. It was not a general public protest; it was an expression by elected public representatives and prominent party functionaries, he said. Tanvir Sadiq said that the National Conference did not participate in the protest to demonstrate its strength or to show anything to anyone. We went there to remind the authorities of the commitments made to the people of Jammu & Kashmirwhether those commitments were made by the Prime Minister, the Union Home Minister or the Supreme Court of India, he said. While responding to media queries with reference to party's march towards BJP headquarters, Tanvir Sadiq said that the partys reference was to the central leadership of the BJP, including the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister, who had made commitments to the people of Jammu & Kashmir regarding the restoration of statehood at the earliest. He said that the National Conference would continue its political struggle and protests for the rights and legitimate demands of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. However, he reiterated that the nature of the protest, the people who would participate and the intervals at which such programmes would be held would be decided by the National Conference itself. Responding to a question regarding September 8, Tanvir Sadiq said that the National Conference would tomorrow observe the 44th death anniversary of its founder and revered leader, Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, with due reverence and respect.
PM Modi has transformed destiny of J&K with abrogation of Article 370: LG Manoj Sinha
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today addressed the IIT (BHU) Global Alumni Meet in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Paying tributes to Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the visionary legacy of Mahamana and his monumental contributions to advancing engineering education and industrialising India. He said that Mahamanas ideals and vision continue to inspire generations to advance technology, strengthen the economy and serve society. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor discussed how Artificial Intelligence will drive economic growth by combining human potential with machine intelligence, and called for Responsible AI. He emphasised that AI must remain anchored in ethics, core values, and strict human oversight. Technology must be proactively guided by humanity to ensure it serves the collective well-being of all people, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also spoke about the rise of a new India, which is stronger at home, confident abroad and prepared to contribute in shaping the new future of humanity. Under the visionary leadership of Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is building its own place in the world and preparing to lead it. This is Indias moment. This is Indias century. I can confidently say that this is the rise of a civilisational power, which is confident, compassionate, innovative and unstoppable. India is rapidly advancing toward technological leadership while building on unprecedented social welfare initiatives, paving the way for a great resurgence, the Lieutenant Governor said. Amidst this revival, the Lieutenant Governor said the story of Jammu Kashmirs transformation will be a compelling one. The Honble Prime Minister has transformed the destiny of Jammu Kashmir with the abrogation of Article 370. On the development front, the last 6 years have been nothing short of historic. This is not just progress but a renaissance. Jammu Kashmir has moved from shadows of fear to the light of opportunity, from isolation to integration, and from despair to destiny. This transformation has opened new avenues of development, investment and opportunity, the Lieutenant Governor said. Recalling Swami Vivekanandas historic September 11, 1893 address in Chicago, the Lieutenant Governor lauded the significant contribution of IIT (BHU) Global Alumni and Indian Diaspora to the upliftment of global society. He urged the IIT (BHU) Global Alumni to actively participate in Indias ongoing civilisational and economic resurgence. The Lieutenant Governor also outlined a four-point roadmap calling on alumni to invest in Indias next-generation institutions through mentorship and capital, build strategic partnerships between American and Indian institutions, share an accurate narrative of Indias transformation, and reconnect with their roots by bringing home their wealth of experience and knowledge. Members of the IIT (BHU) Global Alumni Association and prominent citizens from diverse fields were present on the occasion.
Srinagar, Sep 7: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Monday expressed grave concern over the frequent incidents of suicide in J&K and called for a coordinated effort involving mental health professionals, experts, and key stakeholders to understand the root causes and develop an effective and comprehensive response. Taking to the microblogging site X, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, as per a statement issued, referred to the recent incidents of suicide and mysterious deaths, and said the frequency of such incidents could no longer be dismissed as a series of isolated tragedies. He stressed on the need to examine the social, economic and psychological factors driving people towards despair. These are not isolated incidents. Hardly a day passes without reports of suicides, suspected suicides and mysterious deaths from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Each incident represents a human life lost, and a family shattered, he wrote. Behind these tragedies lies a painful reality. A large section of our population is struggling with unemployment, poverty, inflation, drug abuse, social injustice, uncertainty and the growing pressure of everyday life are pushing many people towards despair. Our youth are facing enormous uncertainty about their future, he added. Calling for the issue to be addressed beyond political and partisan considerations, Apni Party chief urged the government to take the lead in bringing together professionals and institutions from across society to understand the causes of the crisis and formulate a sustained response. He said, On these grave issues, we must rise above political interests and party lines and confront this crisis collectively. The government must take the lead and urgently bring together mental-health professionals, sociologists, educators, civil society organisations, religious and community leaders, youth representatives and other stakeholders to understand the underlying causes and develop a comprehensive response. We cannot remain mere spectators while people around us continue to suffer. We must actand we must act now, the post reads.
Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah was beloved, fearless, uncompromising leader: NC
Srinagar, Sep 7:The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference on Monday pays glowing tributes to the architect of modern J&K, Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, on his 44th death anniversary. Senior leaders of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference described his era of leadership as farsighted, visionary and marked by wisdom in confronting the challenges of the future. In a joint statement, the leaders, as per a party statement issued, expressed deep reverence and respect for the historic personality, recalling that the unprecedented outpouring of grief witnessed 44 years ago, on September 8, when millions of men, women and young and old participated in his funeral procession, remains a testimony to the extraordinary bond between Sher-e-Kashmir and the people of Jammu & Kashmir. They said that few leaders in the world have enjoyed such immense affection, trust and devotion from their people. Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah was a hugely popular, beloved, fearless and uncompromising leader who cherished his homeland and inspired its people to remain steadfast in its service. He fought not merely against individual oppressors but against the entire system of oppression and injustice. The leaders said that Sheikh Mohammad Abdullahs struggle was never narrow or confined to a particular interest. He challenged hereditary rule and played a historic role in ending the feudal order, dismantling the oppressive structures of autocratic rule and ushering in an era of political empowerment and social justice. Among those who paid tributes to Baba e Quom included General Secretary Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar, Assembly Speaker Advocate Abdul Rahim Rather, Additional General Secretaries Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, Treasurer and Rajya Sabha Member Shammi Oberoi, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq, Provincial Presidents Advocate Showkat Ahmad Mir and Rattan Lal Gupta, Members of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad, Haji Hanifa Jan, Sajjad Kitchloo senior leaders Mohammad Shafi Uri, Sharief-ud-Din Shariq, Haji Mubarak Gul, Mohammad Akbar Lone, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Cabinet Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana and Javed Dar, Ghulam Mohiudin Mir, Hasnain Masoodi, Mushtaq Guroo, Salman Ali Sagar, Khalid Najib Suharwardy, Abdul Gani Malik, Ghulam Qadir Pardesi, Mir Saifullah, Nazir Ahmad Khan Gurezi, Qaiser Jamsheed Lone, Altaf Ahmad Wani, Abdul Majeed Larmi, Showkat Hussain Ganai, Dr Bashir Ahmad Veeri, Aga Syed Mahmood, Shameema Firdous, Ali Mohammad Dar, Advocate Riyaz Khan, Ahsan Pardesi, Sajad Shaheen, Ajaz Jan, Riyaz Bedar, Farooq Ahmad Shah, Peerzada Faroz Ahmad, Javed Beigh, Irshad Rasool Kar, Choudhary Mohammad Akram, Muzaffar Khan, Javed Mirchal, Mian Mehr Ali, Mudassar Shahmiri, Imran Nabi Dar, Pir Mohammad Hussain, Er Sabiya Qadri, Peer Afaq Ahmad, Mohammad Khalil Band, Jagdish Singh Azad, Sheikh Mohammad Rafi, Mohammad Yousuf Teng, Mir Mushtaq, besides district and block presidents and office-bearers of the Youth and Womens Wings. The leaders said that the people of Jammu & Kashmir would remain indebted to Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah for generations to come for giving them a voice and securing democratic and political rights for the people. It may be recalled that the 44th death anniversary of Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah is being observed on September 8. On the occasion, Quran Khwani, floral tributes and a commemorative gathering will be held at his mausoleum at Naseem Bagh. The collective Fateh Khwani will be offered at 10:00 AM.
Police solve theft case in Sopore, two arrested
In a major breakthrough, J&K Police Sopore has solved a theft case by arresting two accused persons. The arrest subsequently led to recovery of stolen copper items. A police official, in a statement, said that Police Post Bus Stand, Sopore, received a written complaint from Asrar Ali, son of Abid Hussain Ali, resident of Saidpora, Sopore, regarding the theft of valuable copper items from his scrap workshop situated at Brath Crossing Road. Acting on the complaint, FIR No. 223/2026 under Sections 331(4), 62 and 3(5) of the BNS was registered at Police Station Sopore, and an investigation was taken up. During the course of the investigation, the accused persons were identified and apprehended. The stolen copper items/scrap were recovered from their possession and seized in accordance with the law, the statement reads. The accused have been identified as Mehraj-ud-Din Malla, son of Ghulam Mohammad Malla, and Irfan Ahmad Dar, son of Abdul Ahad Dar, both residents of Mehrajpora, Sopore. Further investigation is underway, the police said.
Multidisciplinary CME on Sleep Apnea held in Srinagar
A multidisciplinary Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme on Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) was conducted on Sunday by the Jammu & Kashmir Association of Chest Physicians at Golden Tulip, Srinagar. The CME, themed Beyond CPAP: A Multidisciplinary Approach to OSA, brought together specialists from pulmonology, cardiology, ENT, oral and maxillofacial surgery and related disciplines to deliberate on the growing clinical burden of obstructive sleep apnea and its multidisciplinary management. The scientific programme included expert sessions on Obstructive Sleep Apnea: My Experience, Cardiovascular Consequences of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Pulmonologists Perspective and Role of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in the Management of OSA. The final session was a multidisciplinary panel discussion on A Multidisciplinary Approach to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), moderated by Prof. (Dr.) Rafiq Pampori, with participation from Prof. (Dr.) Parvaiz Koul, Prof. (Dr.) Naveed Nazir Shah, Prof. (Dr.) Asef Wani, Dr. Shais Jallu, Dr. Ahsan Ali and Dr. Aashiq Ali. The panel discussed the importance of early diagnosis, appropriate patient selection and the role of different specialties in providing comprehensive care to patients with OSA. The CME witnessed active participation and meaningful academic interaction among healthcare professionals. The organisers highlighted that such multidisciplinary academic programmes are essential for improving awareness, strengthening collaborative clinical practice and ensuring comprehensive management of patients with sleep-related breathing disorders. Prof. (Dr.) Rafiq Pampori served as the Organising Chairman, while Dr. Naveed Nazir Shah was the Organising Secretary.
Media delegation from Kerala begins 7-day Press Tour to J&K
Srinagar, Sep 7: A 13-member media delegation from Kerala has embarked on a seven-day press tour to Jammu and Kashmir from September 6 to 12. The tour is being organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Kochi, with the objective of providing journalists from Kerala an opportunity to gain first-hand insights into the developmental initiatives, infrastructure projects and achievements in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. On the first day of the tour, the delegation visited the Press Information Bureau office in Srinagar. Qazi Salman, Director, PIB Srinagar, welcomed the members of the delegation and provided an overview of the media and communication landscape in Kashmir. He also interacted with the visiting journalists and shared insights into the functioning of PIB in the region. Later in the day, the delegation visited Gulmarg, the picturesque hill station located in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, and experienced the region's rich natural landscape and scenic beauty. During the week-long tour, the media delegation will visit various developmental projects and important locations across the Union Territory. The press tour aims to familiarise the participating journalists with the developmental transformation taking place in Jammu and Kashmir and provide them an opportunity to interact with the stakeholders. The press tour is part of PIB's efforts to facilitate wider awareness and informed reporting on significant developmental initiatives being undertaken across different regions of the country.
Kashmir University hosts international conference on plant resilience, climate change
Srinagar, Sep 7: The Department of Botany, University of Kashmir (KU), Monday inaugurated a two-day international conference on Plant Resilience in a Changing Climate: From Molecules to Ecosystem, bringing together scientists, academicians, researchers and young scholars to deliberate on the growing challenges posed by climate change to plants, agriculture and natural ecosystems, particularly in ecologically fragile regions such as the Himalayas. The conference, organised by the Department of Botany, KU, with academic collaboration from Penn State University, USA, is being sponsored under the Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration (SPARC) of the Ministry of Education, GoI and Co- sponsored by ANRF, DBT- GoI. The conference seeks to strengthen scientific and academic collaboration and provide a platform for exchange of knowledge and emerging research on plant resilience under changing climatic conditions. Addressing the inaugural session, KU Vice-Chancellor Prof Nilofer Khan said in her presidential remarks the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident across the globe and require concerted scientific and societal responses. She said universities and research institutions have a crucial responsibility to generate knowledge that can help communities and ecosystems adapt to rapidly changing environmental conditions. Prof Khan said The Himalayan region, owing to its ecological sensitivity, is particularly vulnerable to climate change, making focused research on plant resilience and ecosystem stability extremely important. There is need to translate scientific knowledge into effective interventions, from seed improvement and appropriate plant cultivation to broader sustainable practices, while also strengthening national and international research collaborations. In his special remarks Dean Research KU Prof Bashir Ahmad Ganai said climate change has implications extending beyond the natural environment and needs to be understood in its wider social and developmental context. He underlined the importance of examining changes in natural systems and environmental variations through rigorous scientific research to develop a comprehensive understanding of their consequences. Director Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Srinagar, DrMahendra Kumar Verma, said visible changes are already occurring in the biological calendar of crops and are directly linked to changing climatic conditions. Referring to shifts in harvesting periods and their implications for the storage life and quality of produce, he called for a change in existing approaches and practices and greater application of technology and predictive modelling to prepare agriculture and horticulture for emerging climate realities. In his opening remarks Head, Department of Botany, KU, and Conference Convener Prof Manzoor Ahmad Shah said the conference connects plant resilience research across different levels of biological organisation, from molecules and genes to populations, communities and ecosystems. He said understanding these connections is fundamental to addressing the complexity and dynamics of climate change and developing meaningful scientific responses. Earlier, organiser of the conference DrRiffat John welcomed the guests and participants and outlined the objectives and broader contours of the conference. She said the event has been conceived as a platform for researchers and students to engage with experts, exchange scientific ideas and explore interdisciplinary approaches to plant resilience and climate sustainability. The proceedings of the inaugural session were conducted by Prof Anzar A. Khuroo ,Dept of Botany KU whileasDrNeelaYennawar, Co-organiser from Penn State University, USA, proposed the vote of thanks. The two day international conference includes keynote and invited lectures, scientific sessions, flash talks, student-scientist interactions and poster presentations, besides the valedictory and prize-distribution ceremony.
Five-day NABL Assessor Training Programme begins
A five-day NABL Assessor Training Programme on ISO 15189:2022Strengthening Medical Laboratory Quality Assurance in J&K has commenced in Srinagar as a capacity-development initiative being conducted in collaboration with the Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir; State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K (SAHC-JK); and the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), a constituent board of the Quality Council of India (QCI) under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India. The programme forms part of the structured quality and capacity-building initiatives under the Gunvatta Chakra framework of the Quality Council of India, facilitated in the Union Territory by the State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K. The progression from Gunvatta Yatra and Gunvatta Pathshala to assessor training represents a structured continuum from awareness and capacity building to assessor development, aimed at strengthening the medical laboratory quality assurance and accreditation ecosystem in the UT. The programme was inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) Sabhiya Majid, Chairperson, State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K, and Prof. (Dr.) Tanveer Ali Dar, Head, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir. Prof. (Dr.) Fouzia Rashid, Professor, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, is the Organising Secretary of the programme. The training programme is being attended by senior medical faculty and professionals from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir as well as other parts of the country. Clinical doctors from prestigious institutions, including AIIMS, Government Medical Colleges and other state government organisations, are also participating in the programme. The programme aims to develop a strong pool of trained assessors and resource faculty for the assessment of government and private medical laboratories in accordance with applicable NABL standards. By enhancing local assessment capabilities, the initiative is expected to strengthen laboratory quality, support accreditation preparedness and promote consistent standards in diagnostic services across J&K, while also contributing to the national assessor pool.
HC overturns trial court order, cancels bail to drug peddler
Srinagar, Sep 7:The High Court of J&K and Ladakh in Srinagar has cancelled the bail granted by a trial court to an accused allegedly found in possession of nearly fifty-seven kilograms of Ganja, observing that the stringent bail conditions prescribed under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act were not complied with properly. Allowing Governments plea against the trial courts order over the bail, a bench of Justice Sanjay Parihar withdrew the concession to Naseer Ahmad Mir, who was allegedly apprehended on October 16, 2024, near the Ayushman Health Centre at Village Chakoora in Pulwama district while sitting on bags containing Ganja- a contraband. Following the recovery, a case (FIR No. 74 of 2024) was registered against the accused under Sections 8/20 of the NDPS Act. The alleged contraband was subsequently found to weigh 57.20 kg, falling within the commercial quantity category. On November 1, 2025, the trial court had granted bail to Mir after observing that prosecution witnesses had disclosed contradictions concerning the alleged recovery, seizure and compliance with procedural safeguards under the NDPS Act. In its plea the governments contention was that the order was legally unsustainable as the trial court had failed to apply the settled principles governing grant of bail in cases involving commercial quantities of contraband. It had also urged that bail was granted without satisfying the statutory requirements in Section 37 of the NDPS Act. In its decision, the High Court held that the trial courts reasoning did not adequately satisfy the statutory requirements of Section 37 of the NDPS Act. The Court observed that given the alleged recovery of 57.20 kilograms of Ganja, the evidence which had already come on record, including the testimony of the executive magistrate first Class, and the stage at which the trial was pending, the trial court could not have granted bail to the accused without first recording a legally sustainable satisfaction with respect to the twin conditions prescribed under Section 37 of the NDPS Act. It underscored that in cases involving commercial quantities, where the prosecution opposes bail, the Court must record its satisfaction on two cumulative conditions: that there are reasonable grounds for believing that the accused is not guilty of the alleged offence and that he is not likely to commit any offence while on bail. Such satisfaction, it said, was not a mere formality but a statutory and jurisdictional requirement. The Court noted that although the trial court had referred to contradictions in the prosecution evidence, it had not specifically identified the alleged statutory violations or explained how the contradictions were sufficiently fundamental to establish reasonable grounds for believing that the accused was not guilty. It also took note of the stage of the trial. By the time bail was granted, seven of the 11 prosecution witnesses had already been examined, while four witnesses, including the Investigating Officer, remained. The Court noted that the trial was progressing with reasonable expedition and that there was no material indicating an inordinate or unexplained delay that could justify diluting the statutory requirements of Section 37. Moreover, it observed that discrepancies emerging during cross-examination could not, by themselves, automatically satisfy the stringent threshold prescribed under the NDPS Act. The accused had argued that there was no allegation of misuse of the bail concession, such as influencing witnesses, tampering with evidence or absconding. The Court acknowledged that cancellation of bail ordinarily stands on a different footing from rejection of bail at the initial stage. However, it held that where the original bail order itself is found to be contrary to a mandatory statutory embargo, subsequent good conduct cannot by itself cure the foundational illegality. The Court also noted that the evidence of the Executive Magistrate and police witnesses provided prima facie support to the prosecutions version concerning the alleged recovery. Whether the accused was in conscious possession and whether the prosecution could ultimately prove its case beyond reasonable doubt were left open for determination by the trial court. While setting aside the trial courts order dated November 1, 2025, the high court withdrew the bail granted to Mir. He was directed to surrender before the trial court forthwith and be taken into custody. In case of failure to surrender, the trial court has been authorised to take appropriate coercive measures to secure his presence. The bench also directed the trial court to make every endeavour to conclude the trial expeditiously, subject to cooperation by the parties and without unnecessary adjournments.
IUST to host annual architecture festival Nairang-e-Tameer
The Department of Architecture, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), will host the second edition of its annual architecture festival, Nairang-e-Tameer, from September 8 to 10, 2026. This years theme, Traditions in Practice: Celebrating Craft, Culture & Community, explores the relationship between traditional knowledge, contemporary practice, craft and community. The three-day festival aims to strengthen connections between academia, professional practice and the community while celebrating and exploring the continued relevance of Kashmirs tangible and intangible cultural heritage. It will feature the Architects Conclave: Perspectives in Practice, bringing distinguished architects and design professionals from across the country for featured lectures and discussions. The programme will also include an exhibition titled Works in Practice, showcasing works from professional practice and heritage documentation by students and the department, alongside the Entrepreneurship Forum: Practice-Academia Dialogue, focused on architectural practice, entrepreneurship and industry-academia engagement. Workshops on traditional Kashmiri crafts, a photography and film exhibition, competitions, cultural programmes and sports events will further provide opportunities for experiential learning, creative expression and interaction. The festival is being supported by the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Jammu and Kashmir, Boton Furnitures, Jammu and Kashmir Bank, and Antique by Studio X, whose association contributes to the successful organisation of the three-day programme.
Central University of Kashmir launches LEAD series with Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnains lecture
Central University of Kashmir (CU Kashmir) on Monday started its LEAD Lecture Series with the first Luminary Lecture on Geopolitics and International Relations, delivered by Lt General (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain, Honble Governor of Bihar and Chancellor, CU Kashmir, at the Tulmulla Campus. Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Hasnain lauded the Universitys achievements and appreciated its lecture initiatives, stating that the Universitys presence had added vibrancy to Ganderbal and was contributing to its economic development. Reflecting on Ganderbals strategic significance, Lt Gen Hasnain observed that the district occupies an important position in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly as a vital axis towards Ladakh. He noted that the Srinagar-Leh axis had played a crucial role during the Kargil conflict and remained strategically important, with the Zojila Tunnel further strengthening connectivity. He said the expansion of businesses, showrooms and cafeterias indicated economic progress. Emphasising the transformative power of knowledge, Lt Gen Hasnain said CU Kashmirs contribution to society extended far beyond conventional teaching and learning. Deliberating upon Bihars intellectual heritage, he said knowledge had historically travelled from ancient centres such as Pataliputra and Nalanda across India and beyond, and that CU Kashmir was bringing knowledge and new possibilities to Ganderbal. He called upon students to develop into scholar warriors by cultivating multidisciplinary knowledge and intellectual curiosity. In todays world, knowledge is everything, he said, stressing that students should acquire familiarity with political science, history, geography and economics alongside their core disciplines. Lt Gen Hasnain highlighted the importance of dialogue, debate and accepting differing viewpoints. He said the younger generation was questioning established ideas and educators should encourage students to examine assumptions, seek evidence and recognise when they were wrong. The ability to discuss differences and arrive at a compromise, he maintained, was essential for managing conflict and building a harmonious society. Dwelling on Jammu and Kashmirs changing environment, he said the return of peace had created an opportunity for youth to reclaim lost time and realise their potential. He urged students to develop skills, nurture positive ideas and use available opportunities. Lt Gen Hasnain called for greater academic focus on disaster management, particularly in disaster-prone Jammu and Kashmir. Referring to earthquakes, floods, climate-related hazards, glacier-related risks and debris flows in the context of the recent tragedy in Nepal, he said universities had an important role in awareness, research and preparing communities to respond effectively. He suggested that disaster management should be pursued regularly as an academic and research area. On Indias global position, Lt Gen Hasnain said the country was making significant economic progress and enhancing its standing internationally. He emphasised geo-economics alongside geopolitics and said Indias diversity and ability to function cohesively constituted a major strength. He also underscored academic exchange, welcoming students from different parts of India to CU Kashmir and encouraging students from Kashmir to pursue learning opportunities elsewhere. Welcoming the gathering, Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath said the University was privileged to host Lt Gen Hasnain and described his presence as a source of motivation and inspiration. He said CU Kashmir was expanding its academic and infrastructural footprint and was committed to creating a campus that would emerge among the best in the country. He informed that CU Kashmir currently has 21 departments and nine schools, with four additional departments and two more schools proposed for the next academic year. He said the University had introduced more than seven new programmes during the last three years across general, professional, technical, vocational and emerging domains. Prof. A. Ravinder Nath highlighted CU Kashmirs growing diversity, noting that students from several States constituted nearly 20 percent of enrolment, while faculty members represented many States. He said the University was redesigning curricula in line with NEP 2020, incorporating the Indian Knowledge System, design thinking, innovation and Sustainable Development Goals. He also announced plans for specialised centres, including a Centre for Geopolitics and International Relations, public policy and economics, and comparative religion and social sciences. In her speech, Dean International Affairs and member of the LEAD Lecture Series committee, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, presented the framework of the initiative. She said the LEAD Lecture Series was designed to develop life-coping skills, professionalism and ethical practices, inspire innovation, promote knowledge creation and contribute to a strong nation. Aligned with UGC benchmarks, NAAC criteria and NEP 2020, the framework comprises Luminary, Expert and Distinguished Lecture Series. The Luminary component will feature transformational lectures by leaders and visionaries; the Expert series will connect students with subject experts, industry leaders and researchers; while the Distinguished series will focus on advanced discussions on research, policy and global trends. Dean Academic Affairs and Organising Committee Chairman Prof. Shahid Rasool, Registrar Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, Deans of Schools, Heads and Coordinators of Departments, senior administrative functionaries, faculty members, research scholars and students were present.
The Changing Role of Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is often understood in the narrow context of treating pain or helping someone recover after an injury or surgery. But the profession has evolved far beyond that. Today, physiotherapy is about movement, prevention, rehabilitation and, most importantly, helping people remain independent and participate fully in their everyday lives. On World Physiotherapy Day, observed every year on September 8, it is important to look at physiotherapy not merely as a treatment option after something has gone wrong, but as an important part of maintaining physical health throughout life. Movement is one of the most basic requirements of the human body. We walk, sit, stand, bend, lift, climb stairs, run, work and sleep without thinking much about the complex coordination involved. We begin to appreciate the importance of movement only when pain, injury, weakness or illness takes that ability away. That is where physiotherapy becomes important. A physiotherapist does not simply treat a painful joint or a stiff muscle. The larger responsibility is to understand why the problem has occurred, identify the limitations in movement and strength, and help the individual regain confidence in their body. OUR LIFESTYLE IS CHANGING AND SO ARE OUR PROBLEMS One of the biggest challenges before us today is our increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Long working hours, prolonged sitting, excessive screen time, inadequate physical activity and poor posture have made neck pain, back pain, shoulder problems and other musculoskeletal complaints increasingly common. There was a time when back pain was largely associated with physically demanding work. Today, it is equally common among people who spend most of their working day sitting at a desk. The same applies to neck and shoulder problems. Hours spent looking down at mobile phones and laptops can place considerable stress on the neck and upper back. What begins as occasional discomfort can gradually become a persistent problem. The common response is often to take a painkiller, apply a balm or simply wait for the pain to disappear. But pain is not always the problem itself. It can be a warning that something in the way we move, work or use our body needs attention. This is where proper assessment becomes important. PHYSIOTHERAPY SHOULD NOT BEGIN ONLY AFTER INJURY One of the misconceptions that needs to change is that physiotherapy is meant only for people who have suffered an injury or undergone surgery. Prevention is an equally important part of physiotherapy. A person who spends eight hours at a desk can benefit from understanding correct posture, strengthening the muscles that support the spine and incorporating appropriate movement into the working day. Similarly, a sportsperson can benefit from physiotherapy not only after an injury but also as part of injury prevention and performance preparation. For older adults, physiotherapy can help maintain strength, balance, flexibility and mobility. These are particularly important because a loss of balance or muscle strength can increase the risk of falls and dependence on others. For women, physiotherapy has an important role during pregnancy and after childbirth, particularly in helping restore strength, mobility and overall physical function. The principle is simple. We should not wait for movement to become difficult before we start taking care of it. THE GOAL IS NOT SIMPLY TO REDUCE PAIN A patient often comes to a physiotherapist with one immediate question: When will my pain go? That is understandable. Anyone living with pain wants relief. But successful physiotherapy is about more than temporary relief. The objective is to address the underlying problem and help the patient return to normal activity. If someone has recurrent back pain, for example, simply reducing the pain may not be enough. We need to understand whether there is weakness, stiffness, poor movement mechanics, an unsuitable working position or another contributing factor. Similarly, after an operation, rehabilitation is not complete merely because the surgical wound has healed. The patient needs to regain strength, mobility, confidence and the ability to perform daily activities. The real measure of recovery is not only whether a patient feels better inside the clinic. It is whether they can walk better, work better, climb stairs, sleep comfortably, return to their sport or carry out everyday activities without unnecessary limitations. THE CONNECTION BETWEEN PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELLBEING Physical health and mental wellbeing are closely connected. Anyone who has experienced prolonged pain knows that it can affect much more than the body. Persistent pain can disturb sleep, affect mood, reduce confidence and restrict social and professional life. A person may gradually stop exercising because movement hurts. They may avoid going out, playing with their children or participating in activities they once enjoyed. Reduced activity can then lead to further weakness and stiffness, creating a cycle that becomes increasingly difficult to break. Physiotherapy can help break that cycle. Good rehabilitation gives patients not only exercises but also knowledge and confidence. When patients understand their condition and learn what their body is capable of doing, they begin to take ownership of their recovery. That is an important shift. The patient should not remain dependent on treatment forever. The ultimate objective should be to make the patient stronger, more confident and capable of managing their physical health independently. AGE SHOULD NOT BECOME AN EXCUSE FOR INACTIVITY Another area where we need to change our thinking is ageing. Growing older is a natural process. Losing independence does not have to be an inevitable part of it. Strength, balance, flexibility and endurance can be maintained through appropriate physical activity and exercise. Physiotherapy can play an important role in helping older people remain mobile and independent. The aim is not to make an elderly person perform like a young athlete. The aim is much more practical and meaningful. Can they get out of a chair without assistance? Can they climb the stairs? Can they walk to the market? Can they travel, meet friends and participate in family life? These may appear to be ordinary things, but for someone struggling with mobility, they represent independence and dignity. Technology will help, but the human connection will remain important Physiotherapy is also changing with technology. Digital rehabilitation, wearable devices, movement analysis and teleconsultation are opening new possibilities for patients and therapists. These developments can make rehabilitation more accessible and help monitor progress. But technology cannot replace the importance of clinical assessment, communication and understanding the individual patient. Every patient is different. Two people may have the same diagnosis but completely different physical requirements, lifestyles and recovery patterns. A good rehabilitation programme therefore has to be personalised. Physiotherapy is ultimately about people, not just conditions. A CULTURE OF MOVEMENT IS WHAT WE NEED Perhaps the most important message on World Physiotherapy Day is that movement should become a part of our daily routine rather than something we turn to only when a doctor tells us to exercise. Take regular breaks from prolonged sitting. Walk whenever possible. Strengthen the body. Work on flexibility and balance. Pay attention to posture. Give the body adequate recovery. Most importantly, do not ignore persistent pain or limitations in movement. At the same time, exercise should be appropriate to an individuals age, physical condition and medical history. More exercise is not always better. The right exercise, performed correctly and consistently, is what matters. Physiotherapy has a role to play at every stage of this journey. From a child learning to move confidently, to an athlete returning to competition, from a professional dealing with work related pain to an older person trying to preserve independence, physiotherapy can make a meaningful difference. MOVING TOWARDS A HEALTHIER FUTURE World Physiotherapy Day is therefore not simply a day to recognise physiotherapists. It is an opportunity to recognise the importance of movement itself. We often take the ability to walk, bend, stretch, lift and move for granted. Yet these simple abilities determine how independently we live our lives. As physiotherapists, our responsibility is not only to treat illness and injury but also to educate people, prevent avoidable problems and help them understand that their physical health deserves attention long before a serious problem develops. A healthy body is not one that never experiences pain or injury. It is one that is cared for, strengthened and given the opportunity to recover. This World Physiotherapy Day, let us remember that movement is not merely a function of the body. It is freedom, confidence, independence and quality of life. And sometimes, helping a person move again means helping them reclaim a part of their life that they thought they had lost. Dr Manasi Pawar is a Pune based physiotherapist with over 15 years of experience in the field.
The whole paradigm of international law has changed in recent years. Given the current global situation, in which conflicts have thrown off the normal course of international affairs, it is important for Pakistan to grasp the reality that trying to manipulate and maneuver the narrative on the Indus Waters Treatyblaming India for choking its river waters under the World Bank-brokered treaty of 1960will only complicate its problems. There is a simple way out of the crisis it is facing: stop cross-border terrorism into India to get some concessions on the water-distribution mechanism. In recent months, it has intensified its anti-India campaign at international forums, perhaps with the hope that the global community will intervene and prevail upon India not to change the course of the treaty, the waters of which form the lifeblood of the country in all senses of the word. There is an element of truth that the waters flowing to Pakistan under the provisions of the treaty are a lifeblood for its population, but the real origin of this crisis cannot be overlooked: its continuous and undiminished support to cross-border terrorism into India. The other point it continues to miss is that the international community cannot talk to India at Pakistans behest to release all the waters without Pakistan changing its attitude. Pakistan is propagating that the international community should intervene and force India to reverse its decision of the unilateral suspension of the treaty, as the waters flowing through these rivers are the lifeblood for its survival as a nation and its future generations. In the given global situation and the standing that India holds in international affairs, Pakistans attempts to bring in international pressure on Delhi to save itself from the catastrophic consequences of its acts of cross-border terrorism are grossly misplaced. The Indus Waters Treaty suspension was not a unilateral act by India; Pakistans provocation became the primary cause. Today, Indias leadership is strong and can take decisions that its preceding governments thought were impractical. The scene has changed, and Pakistan should have looked at this first before making pleas at the international level. It does not have to knock on international doors; it has a simple way to do things on its ownwipe out all terror-breeding nurseries and training centers. That can open a window of opportunity for it. However, Islamabads attempts to internationalize the issue are only queering the pitch for itself. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched a fresh salvo against India during his speech at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek, on September 1, 2026. While highlighting the need for river waters, he said, Water is the lifeblood of our region, and charged India with weaponizing it and imperilling lives in Pakistan. He went on to say, It sustains millions of lives, nourishes our land, and secures the very future of our coming generations. He also stated that water should never be weaponized and that binding treaties governing shared waters must be honoured in letter and spirit, adding, It cannot be used as an instrument of coercion, nor can it ever be exploited as political leverage. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has been quite vocal over the damage that the suspension of the treaty will inflict on his country and how this Indian step threatens regional security in South Asia. He is not mincing words in claiming that South Asian regional security could be at a crossroads. This is an explicit threat: Pakistan could take measures in response to the unilateral suspension of activating the treaty that could threaten regional peace and security. He is alerting the international community about an unstable and war-like conflict in the region, implying that the international communityalready bogged down by several simultaneous conflicts in the worldshould wake up to the threat before it is too late. This is a typical Pakistani way of seeking international intervention, reminiscent of the times when it used to project the unresolved Kashmir dispute as a nuclear flashpoint. There are two primary aspects to this: first, Pakistan is feeling the pinch of the Indian decision to keep the treaty in abeyance. The situation threatens to become alarming for Pakistan, one of the most water-stressed states in the world. Chronologically, Islamabad is making repeated references to the Indian decision of April 23, 2025the day when India announced: The Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 will be held in abeyance with immediate effect, until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism. This decision had an immediate backdrop: twenty-six civilians, mostly tourists, were killed by terrorists in Baisaran, Pahalgam, now better known as the Pahalgam massacre of April 22, 2025. Indias position was clear that the treaty was being kept in abeyance until Pakistan abrogates its support for cross-border terrorism. This terror attack is conveniently removed by Pakistan from its discourse on the treaty while it makes pleas for global attention and intervention. Secondly, nowhere in its narrative at international forums does Pakistan suggest that there was no question of rolling back cross-border terrorism because it claims it has nothing to do with it. It denied its hand in the Pahalgam savagery, where terrorists shot dead touristsincluding newlywedsin front of their families at the tourist resort. Its immediate reaction was to condole the loss of lives in Pahalgam instead of condemning the incident, and it did not urge or extend support to India to take appropriate action against the perpetrators of the carnage in Kashmir. The Pakistani leadership is literate enough to know the difference between condoling and condemning an incident. Several days after Indiataking a cue from the past pattern of such attacksstated that terrorists from across the border had executed this blood-curdling attack on innocent tourists, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared that his country was willing to accept an international probe into the tragic incident, accusing India of blatantly and brazenly blaming Pakistan without substantial evidence. The real reason for this plea was to avert the looming threat that the suspension of the river-waters distribution treaty posed to his country. This theory of an international probe sounded plausible, but something was fishy. In January 2016, India had allowed Pakistani intelligence sleuths to jointly investigate the Pathankot Air Force Station attack, and the result was that Pakistan denied its own hand. That attack had come just a week after Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Pakistan to give a new direction to bilateral relations. When denial is the first and final resort, no investigation can ever be fair and credible. Pakistan was using this plea to pre-empt Indias plans of going ahead with the April 23, 2025 declaration regarding the waters treaty, and to pre-empt the counter-terror operations that India had threatened and later executed under Operation Sindoor. International affairs have undergone a sea change. Pakistan is wasting its time because the international community knows the consequences of supporting Pakistan on this issue: blessing a terror epicenter. Nothing is going to change that stance; Pakistan is wasting its time, energy, and resources in its attempts to internationalize the issue.
Where is the Omar Abdullah led NC Government?
Between governmentality, governance and politics, where does the Omar Abdullah led government stand? This is a question that befuddles the mind of every Kashmiri. To the common Kashmiri, the government is missing in action, except for photo ops, self-congratulatory media rants by its MLAs and other unelected honchos. In other words, the Omar Abdullah led government jogs its way by trying to hog the media headlines. But this is what National Conference was not voted for into power. A massive mandate that was given by the people of Jammu and Kashmir was meant to address long standing political grievances, the status of J&K with respect to the broader federal framework of India after 2019, and resolving the day to day but pressing issues of the people. Instead of that what the people of J&K have gotten is a nonfunctional government which neither is into governmentality nor governance, and a party that has lost its way and some would say even soul. The real victims and sufferers of the Omar Abdullah led government are the hapless people of J&K. Beyond rhetorical and mostly unkept promises in the partys pre-election manifesto, the common people of J&K only see dazzling displays of authority in the form or security cavalcades, irrelevant media sound bytes by NC members and loyalists, and irrelevant governance if at all it can be called that. This is justified by the NC government by blaming the diarchic mode of hybrid governance in J&K defined my dual modes of authority, power and centralized control. This is correct but only up to a point. There are domains of government and governance that are in the Chief Ministers ambit and that of the elected government. Why is not authority exercised in these domains for the overall welfare and wellbeing of the people of J&K? This is because the NC government has given up on governance, let alone politics. In the realm of politics, the aspirations of J&Ks people have been reduced to a mere demand for statehood. Even if it is conceded that statehood is only what people of J&K want, what is the shape and form of that? What does statehood mean in the absence of control over the policing functions of the state? What does going to Delhi and meeting ministers and then doing photo ops over that add up to? Nothing but empty symbolism aimed at playing to the gallery. But beyond and behind this empty symbolism, and shifting blame to the diarchic mode of power and authority in J&K lies a game played by the NC government. This behind the scenes game is about money, corruption and patronage. The NC has reduced its massive and historical mandate to enrich itself and its cronies by disbursal of patronage. This is in the form of corrupt practices over transfers in areas that the government has remit over, lording over a bureaucracy that is increasingly working at cross purposes and a government that has lost its sense of purpose and direction. Its sole goal appears to be making the government a patronage machine for its loyalists and supporters at the expense of the wider public. If the NC government was a little serious about governance and welfare of the people of J&K, it could have easily extracted efficiencies within the existing framework and systems and passed the benefits to people. But it has chosen not to. What it does instead is to encourage and promote inertia in the government structures, and then pass on the systems inefficiencies to the people. The recent increase in power tariff rates to people is a case in point here. Blaming these to peaks and troughs in demand for electricity, T & D losses and other technical matters is obfuscation at best and lying at worst. Instead of making the system more efficient which is possible, the NC government paralyses it by various means and methods. Governance is not about commanding vast resources and then disbursing these at whim. It is about making use of available resources to create more and ensuring that these are disbursed and used in the interests of equity, and fairness to all, with prejudice to none. This principle of governance has been hollowed out by the NC and its honchos. The sufferers are the people of J&K who have neither voice to address deliberate governance failures nor means to redress these. But the NC government plays the chor aaya, chor aaya, trick little realizing that in this day and age of technology induced transparency it cannot fool people all the time. If it is really serious about the hurdles and burdens it faces, the choice of giving up on governmental power is before it. But no, it will not abdicate and give up on the perks and privileges of power and only play the blame game. By riding on the sentiments of people in 2024 and then running roughshod over these, the so called grand old party has betrayed its own people. The hollowed-out party which was given a new lease of life by people of J&K in 2024 has also dug its own grave. But the series of its inconsistencies, lies and deceptions which will bury the party in these would not have mattered but for the faith that people of J&K reposed in it. Everything is in the court of people now. When time comes, the people of J&K must exercise their choices with great care and attention and show the door to those that have consistently betrayed their genuine expectations. Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari is the President, Jammu & Kashmir Apni Party.
Srinagar Jammu NH open for regulated 2-way traffic
The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remained open for regulated two-way traffic on Monday, although vehicular movement was slow at several vulnerable and construction-affected locations between Udhampur and Banihal. Traffic was particularly slow at Dewal in Udhampur district, where a 3040-metre portion of the highway was damaged by recent rainfall. The uneven and undulating surface has necessitated single-lane regulation, while the National Highways Authority of India has deployed men and machinery for restoration work. Restoration is also continuing on the Srinagar-bound tube at Dewal, where rain-induced erosion has affected the road at two to three locations. Vehicles are being allowed through single-lane passages to reduce congestion and maintain safety. In Ramban district, traffic remains regulated on the MaroogKishtwari Pather stretch due to ongoing construction, widening and road-improvement works. Intermittent delays are being reported at work sites and other vulnerable points, with traffic personnel deployed to manage movement through available carriageways. Authorities have advised commuters, especially passenger and light-motor-vehicle operators travelling between Ramban and Banihal, to undertake journeys during daylight and avoid unnecessary night travel because of the risk of shooting stones, landslides and mudslides. Motorists have been urged to maintain lane discipline, avoid overtaking and wrong-lane driving, and not stop at sensitive locations. Kashmir-bound oil and gas tankers are permitted to cross Chenani only between 5 pm and 5 am owing to widening work on the DigdolKhooni Nallah section. Traffic authorities cautioned that fresh rain, landslides, mudslides, shooting stones or additional road damage could trigger further regulation or temporary closure. Commuters and transporters have been advised to confirm the latest highway status with Traffic Control Units in Jammu, Ramban and Srinagar before starting their journey.
For years, Kashmirs tourism potential was spoken of conditionally: Only if the security situation stabilizes, the tourists come. No longer. The numbers in recent years suggest that conditional is turning into a statement of fact. Over 5.21 lakh tourists visited Kashmir in the first four and a half months of 2026 alone: 5.13 lakh domestic travellers and 8,195 foreign visitors. Nearly 2.95 lakh came by road through Banihal, 1.47 lakh flew into Srinagar, and just under 56,000 arrived at the Nowgam railway station, with another 14,870 via Banihals rail link. A tourism economy that used to lean almost entirely on a single highway now has air and rail absorbing a meaningful share of the load. The month-on-month trend is equally telling. Arrivals climbed steadily from Januarys 91,710 to Aprils 1.32 lakh, the highest monthly figure of the year so far, before May opened with over 83,000 arrivals in just its first two weeks. Even since the arrivals have only further picked up. credit for this belongs partly to infrastructure. theexpansion of rail services to srinagar, growing flight frequency, and afunctioning highway have removed the old excuses for staying away. but connectivityalone doesnt fill hotel rooms: someone still has to tell the world Kashmir iswelcoming to tourists now. Thats where the Union Territory administrationsoutreach has mattered. The Tourism Departments participation in trade fairssuch as TTF Ahmedabad, aimed squarely at one of Indias fastest-growingoutbound travel markets, is the necessary work of destination marketing. The government has also begun betting on culture as a tourismmultiplier. The inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir,which opened in Srinagar on Monday with 135 films drawn from over 1,100 entriesacross 80 countries, is a case in point. Beyond the red carpet, the festival isexplicitly designed to pull Bollywood and international productions back to locationsthat once served as their default backdrop.
High Court of J&K and Ladakh on Monday directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration and other respondents to consider the petition of Doda East MLA Mehraj Malik seeking restoration of his security cover with the escort vehicle. The court, as per Maliks advocate, has also directed the Security Review Coordination Committee (SRCC) to look into the threat perception of the petitioner (MLA) and take a decision within six weeks from the date of its (courts) order. SRCC a specialised body constituted to evaluate individual threat perceptions and determine appropriate security categorisation i.e., security cover scale for protected or vulnerable persons. The court direction came in response to the petition of MLA andAam Aadmi Party (AAP) J&K presidentMehraj Maliklisted before Justice Sanjay Dhar of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh at Jammu on Monday. Besides J&K State,Principal Secretary Home Department; DGP J&K;ADGP,IGP Security J&K; DIG Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban range; SSP (Security) Jammu and SSP Doda are the other respondents in the petition. Senior Additional Advocate General (AAG) Monika Kohli appeared for the State while advocate Appu Singh Slathia represented Malik. When the matter was taken up for hearing, Appu Singh Slathia maintained, Since the quashing of the PSA slapped against Malik on April 27 2026,the (J&K) State has not restored his security cover along with the escort vehicle although it (State) is oblivious to the security threat faced by him (Malik). She stated that MLADodas political engagements involved frequent travel across the Union Territory of J&K including Kashmir; grassroot level meetings; community interactions and proliferation of engagements and the petitioner (Malik) was under constant security threat. Slathia maintained that the petitioner MLA was singled out as all the other MLAs of Jammu and Kashmir were provided escort vehicles with proper security cover. She claimed that the petitioner was being made to suffer because of his disparate views especially with respect to the ruling government at the Centre andthe government in power in the Union Territory of J&K. She also submitted before the court that till date none of the meticulously drafted representations were replied to by the respondents. The DGP of J&Khas not responded to the MLAs representation dated August 3, 2026. Coming from a terror prone area, the life of MLA Doda is at risk and if something gruesome happens, there will be serious ramifications. His security is infused with threat perception and his security cover along with the escort vehicle should be restored immediately, Slathia submitted before the court. After hearing both sides, the court while disposing of the petition,directed the respondents to consider the representations of the petitioner and asked the SRCC to look into the threat perception of the petitioner MLA and take a decision within six weeks from the date of the courts order. On April 27, 2026, the High Court of J&K and Ladakh had quashed the detention order, issued under the Public Safety Act (PSA) against Mehraj Malik and directed for his immediate release. 37-year-old Mehraj Malik was booked and detained by the Police under the Public Safety Act (PSA), allegedly for activities prejudicial to the maintenance of public order on September 8, 2025 and was subsequently lodged in District Jail Kathua. The detention was based on a police dossier citing 18 FIRs and 16 DDRs registered and recorded against him from 2014 to 2025, besides reports of the Executive Magistrate and other material. Ensuing autumn session of J&K Legislative Assembly will be the first session to be attended by Malik after his release following quashing of PSA invoked against him.
J&Ks factories can become power plants
Srinagar, Sep 7:Jammu and Kashmirs industrial sector could emerge as a major source of decentralised clean electricity if the largely unused rooftops of factories, warehouses, and industrial sheds are brought into the solar-energy ecosystem, potentially adding generation capacity without requiring additional land. The scale of the opportunity is indicated by the latest tariff data. For 2026-27, the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) has approved a total of 19,814 industrial electricity connections across the two distribution companies Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (JPDCL) and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (KPDCL). The approved consumer base comprises 8061 LT industrial, 896 HT industrial and 26 HT-PIU consumers under JPDCL, and 10,498 LT industrial, 331 HT industrial and two HT-PIU consumers under KPDCL. While the connections vary considerably in size and consumption, the aggregate number highlights a significant asset that has received comparatively little attention: industrial rooftop space. Industrial sheds typically have large, relatively unobstructed roofs, while the underlying land has already been acquired, the buildings constructed and electricity infrastructure established. Installing solar panels on such structures therefore offers a way to add renewable generation without the land-acquisition challenges associated with utility-scale solar projects. The precise potential, however, remains unclear because J&K does not appear to have a comprehensive, publicly available assessment of the rooftop area associated with its industrial establishments and the solar capacity that could technically be installed on it. That assessment could become particularly important as the government considers changes to industrial incentives. Under the existing industrial policy, eligible industrial units can receive 100 percent subsidy on DG sets ranging from 10 kW to 2,000 kW, subject to a ceiling of Rs 40 lakh in Zone A and Rs 45 lakh in Zone B. The rationale has historically been to help industrial units maintain backup power amid unreliable electricity supply. A shift from subsidising diesel-based backup generation towards rooftop solar would represent a significant change in the policy approach from supporting a recurring fossil-fuel expense to helping industries build a renewable-energy asset. The design of the proposed incentive, however, will determine how much of the potential is actually realised. If the proposed solar subsidy is linked to the sanctioned electricity load of an industrial unit, that can provide a rational basis for determining the extent of government support. But the sanctioned load should not necessarily become a ceiling on the amount of rooftop solar an entrepreneur is permitted to install. For example, if an industrial unit qualifies for subsidised solar capacity corresponding to its sanctioned load but has a structurally suitable roof capable of accommodating substantially more, the additional rooftop area need not remain unused. Government could limit its enhanced subsidy to the capacity linked to the sanctioned load while allowing and actively encouraging -the entrepreneur to finance additional capacity independently, subject to technical, safety and grid-integration requirements. The additional renewable generation could also be brought within the framework of eligible renewable-energy industrial or MSME activities, allowing entrepreneurs to access applicable mainstream industrial incentives and financing mechanisms. The principle would be straightforward: government subsidises the capacity required by the industrial unit, while private investment unlocks the rest of the technically viable rooftop. This could also create a more efficient use of electricity infrastructure. Industrial electricity consumption is typically concentrated during daytime operating hours, when solar generation is available. Electricity consumed directly at the premises would reduce the requirement for corresponding grid-supplied power, while surplus generation could be exported or settled through the applicable regulatory mechanism. The approach would also avoid one of the biggest constraints associated with large renewable-energy projects in J&K land. Instead of acquiring additional land for solar parks, the policy could make use of existing industrial buildings, warehouses, parking structures and other suitable surfaces. Industrial estates could eventually function as decentralised solar clusters, with common grid infrastructure and estate-level planning. The government could begin by conducting a comprehensive industrial rooftop solar audit covering roof area, structural suitability, sanctioned load, historical electricity consumption, available evacuation capacity and technically feasible photovoltaic capacity. Such an exercise would establish, for the first time, how many megawatts of generation potential are actually available above J&Ks factories. Industrial estates could then be prioritised for phased development. Common infrastructure support available through the Ministry of MSMEs cluster-development programmes could potentially be leveraged where eligible, while distribution companies could plan required grid strengthening at the estate level rather than handling every rooftop as an isolated project. Financing will be equally important. Banks, including J&K Bank and other lenders, could develop dedicated rooftop-solar products for industrial units with repayment structures aligned with electricity-bill savings and, where permitted, revenues from surplus generation. The significance of the proposed shift therefore goes beyond replacing diesel generators with solar panels. J&K already has 19,814 industrial electricity connections, and the number is expected to increase as industrial activity expands. A policy that treats factory rooftops as energy infrastructure could allow that growing industrial base to contribute to the regions electricity transition. The opportunity is to move from a model in which industry is simply an electricity consumer to one in which industrial premises also become distributed generators. Manufacturing can remain on the factory floor. The roof can produce the power.
J&K cant afford disaster preparedness gaps: Parliamentary panel
Srinagar, Sep 7: A parliamentary committee of the Ministry of Home Affairs has flagged Jammu and Kashmirs heightened vulnerability to floods, landslides, earthquakes, avalanches, and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), while noting that gaps persist in last-mile connectivity, enforcement of land-use regulations and the integration of disaster risk reduction measures across development sectors. In its observations on disaster management in J&K, the committee noted that J&K is particularly exposed to multiple hazards because of its fragile Himalayan ecology, complex terrain and climatic variability. The committee noted that J&K is highly vulnerable to multiple hazards including floods, landslides, earthquakes, avalanches, and GLOFs, owing to its fragile Himalayan ecology, complex terrain and climatic variability, the report said. It observed that Kashmir valley is particularly prone to floods, the Chenab Valley to landslides, while the Jammu region falls in high seismic zones. The panel said J&K has developed a structured disaster management framework, with the Disaster Management Plan initially notified in 2017 and subsequently revised in 2023 to bring it in line with the UT governance structure and the National Disaster Management Plan. The committee observed that J&K has developed a structured disaster management framework, with the Disaster Management Plan initially notified in 2017 and subsequently revised in 2023 to align with the UT governance structure and the National Disaster Management Plan, it said. The committee also noted that District Disaster Management Plans had been prepared for all 20 districts, ensuring complete coverage. On institutional preparedness, the panel said mechanisms had been strengthened following the reorganisation of J&K, including through the reconstitution of the Disaster Management Authority and improved coordination among UT, divisional, and district-level authorities. However, it pointed to initial challenges relating to role clarity, inter-departmental coordination and data sharing, particularly during the transition phase. The report also examined the incorporation of disaster risk reduction into infrastructure projects. It noted that measures such as slope stabilisation, drainage systems, embankments and geotechnical interventions were increasingly being incorporated into road projects, including the Srinagar-Jammu corridor, as well as tourism and hydropower projects. However, the committee cautioned that such integration remains uneven and project-specific rather than systemic. The panel appreciated efforts to strengthen early warning systems through the adoption of the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP), integration of alerts from agencies including the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Central Water Commission (CWC), and Directorate General Resettlement and Relief (DGRE), and the use of platforms such as SACHET and Decision Support Systems. Emergency Operation Centres at UT and district levels provide real-time coordination and dissemination of alerts, the report said. But the committee identified a significant challenge in reaching people in remote and mountainous areas. However, the committee noted that last-mile connectivity remains a challenge in remote and mountainous districts such as Kishtwar, Kupwara and Bandipora due to terrain and communication limitations, it said. It also observed the absence of a fully integrated real-time multi-hazard warning platform and community-based alert systems. Response capacity and local preparedness The panel noted that J&K's response capacity is supported by SDRF battalions, NDRF deployment and coordination with the Army and other central agencies, particularly for mountain search and rescue, avalanche response and high-altitude logistics. It also noted that resources were being pre-positioned and seasonal preparedness measures, including winter stocking in snow-bound areas, were in place. At the community level, the Committee highlighted programmes such as Aapda Mitra and Aapda Sakhi and the constitution of Panchayat- and Block-level Disaster Management Committees. Training programmes, mock drills and awareness campaigns have been conducted across districts to enhance local preparedness, it said. The panel also recorded mitigation measures including slope stabilisation, flood protection works, embankments and soil conservation interventions in vulnerable areas such as Ramban, Baramulla and Uri. It described monitoring of glacial lakes and implementation of GLOF mitigation frameworks through dedicated committees and scientific studies as important steps towards long-term risk reduction. On urban flooding, the committee noted that measures including de-siltation of drains, strengthening of embankments and flood-channel improvements were being undertaken in Srinagar and Jammu. However, it highlighted continuing problems involving floodplain encroachment, inadequate drainage infrastructure and enforcement gaps. The committee noted that regulatory frameworks for earthquake-resistant construction and floodplain zoning are in place; however, enforcement remains inconsistent, particularly in peri-urban and rural areas, the report said. It also flagged challenges associated with the utilisation of funds meant for resilience-building. Similarly, while funds such as SDRF, CAMPA and mitigation programmes are being utilised for resilience-building, challenges in timely fund utilisation, technical capacity and monitoring were observed, it said. In its concluding assessment, the committee acknowledged the progress made by J&K in strengthening its disaster management systems but called for a broader and more systematic approach. The committee is of the view that while Jammu and Kashmir has made significant progress in strengthening disaster management systems, there is a need for greater emphasis on last-mile connectivity, enforcement of land-use regulations, integration of disaster risk reduction into all development sectors and strengthening of technological and institutional capacities to enhance the effectiveness of response, relief and rehabilitation across J&K, the report said.
Jammu, Sep 7:Jammu and Kashmir cabinet, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, will meet on September 10 in Srinagar to deliberate and finalise the business to be transacted, during the ensuing autumn session of Union Territory (UT) Legislative Assembly. The cabinet, as per sources, will take call on the bills, resolutions and other government business which need the Houses approval and hence will be taken up in the upcoming J&K Assembly session, commencing from September 21 in Srinagar. Besides routine administrative matters and few transfers, the cabinet may also deliberate on some issues confronting it, a range of proposals and policy matters aimed at strengthening governance. Among the bills to be deliberated during the cabinet meeting will prominently include the one related to Ease of Doing Business (EODB). Earlier on September 2, the J&K cabinet was given a presentation on the EODB bill by the concerned officials. Sources maintain that the revised bill, addressing the concerns related to Industry and Commerce, Housing and Urban Development and Fire Services departments, will be presented before the cabinet for approval on September 10. The EODB issue was part of the August 4, 2026 cabinet meeting as well given its importance yet the approval (by cabinet) was put on hold in wake of certain queries by the ministers. The significant proposed bill once approved will see drastic reduction vis--vis requirement of No Objection Certificates by various government departments or agencies. This will be the first cabinet meeting after the Chief Ministers much hyped meeting with the Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the union capital on September 4, where the issues related to statehood, business rules, reservation and other pending files figured during the deliberations. Once the government finalises its business, it will intimate the Speaker J&K Legislative Assembly. After cabinets approval, the bills, resolutions will be sent for the Lieutenant Governors nod and given his (LGs) clearance, they will be lined up for introduction in the J&K Legislative Assembly. Following deliberations with the elected government, the Speaker will list the provisional calendar of business and sittings. The Business Advisory Committee may, later, tweak the calendar if some changes are warranted. It is being presumed that the autumn session may last 10-12 days with a provision of 7-8 sittings. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on August 12, 2026 had summoned the autumn session of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly in Srinagar on September 21 at 10 am, in exercise of the powers conferred upon him under section 18(1) of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019. Earlier on August 4, 2026, the J&K Council of Ministers, in its meeting presided over by the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar, had sent this recommendation to LG Sinha vis--vis convening of the autumn session of the Union Territory legislature from September 21, 2026. After the LG Sinha issued an order summoning the session, the J&K Legislative Assembly Secretariat, through a bulletin, asked the MLAs to submit notices of 8 questions (each) 4 starred and 4 unstarred and one bill (each) by or before August 25, 2026 and two resolutions each by or before September 5, 2026. The members may also send their notices (questions, bills-resolutions) on NeVA (National e- Vidhan Application digital) platform of J&K Legislative Assembly. The session is being held almost a fortnight ahead of the expiry of the deadline i.e., October 4 of convening a session within six months of the previous session, as per the constitutional requirement. Previous session i.e., the budget session of J&K Legislative Assembly in Jammu had ended on April 4, 2026.
IFFJK can help showcase Kashmirs stories
Srinagar, Sep 7:Bollywood actress Sana Fatima Shaikh Monday said the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) could provide a major platform for showcasing Kashmirs beauty, culture and stories to audiences across the world. Talking to reporters on the sidelines of the film festival at SKICC here, Fatima, whose mother is from Kashmir, said returning to the Valley after several years felt like coming home and brought back memories of her childhood. I am very happy to be here. It feels like home. I am excited to be part of the beginning of an international film festival here, she said. Fatima said the participation of filmmakers and audiences from around 80 countries could give the Valley unprecedented international exposure. People from around 80 countries will come. There are thousands and thousands of people coming, she said. Fatima described the festival as not merely a cinematic event but also a cultural platform capable of bringing people together. She said cinema had the power to connect people across cultures and urged young people in Jammu and Kashmir to take up filmmaking and tell their own stories. We are here to inspire more youth to take up the camera and share stories of their country, city, town, home and family, Fatima said. She said she had visited Kashmir only a few times earlier for film shoots, but the festival had allowed her to see the Valley from a different perspective. I cant explain the amount of beauty that Kashmir possesses. I am confident that local youngsters would be able to showcase that beauty to the world through cinema, Fatima said. She also underlined the potential of international filmmakers visiting Kashmir to create a deeper cultural connection with the region. Fatima said that as filmmakers from different countries become familiar with Kashmir, they could eventually tell their own stories about the Valley and contribute to a wider understanding of the region. She cited examples of foreign visitors developing a connection with Indian locations and subsequently telling stories based on their experiences, saying such cultural exchanges could help turn places into melting pots of global storytelling. The actor also stressed the importance of preserving and showcasing regional stories, traditions and spoken artistry through cinema, noting that songs, lullabies and stories passed down through generations continue to remain relevant. Fatima said the international exposure generated by the festival could also help filmmakers and producers understand the cinematic and tourism potential of Jammu and Kashmir. I am particularly looking forward to exploring Kashmir with my family during my stay in the Valley, she said.
Bae chus Kashur: Vidhu Vinod Chopra
Srinagar, Sep 7:Noted filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra on Monday said his participation in first-ever International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) was an emotional homecoming. Addressing media persons on the sidelines of IFFJK 2026, he recalled that his childhood, education, and roots in Kashmir and urged local youth to believe in their talent. Bae chus Kashur. Kashmir is home to me. I am from Kashmir, as you know. I studied at SP College and for me, it is a homecoming, he said. Chopra recalled his days at SP College and journey from Amira Kadal to the film industry saying his return to Kashmir through the festival was an emotional moment. For me, this is an emotional moment. I travelled from Amira Kadal to where I am sitting here. I am a Kashmiri and I know Kashmiri, he said. He said that youth of Kashmir should not underestimate themselves, saying Kashmir was full of talent. My request to youth will be not to let down yourself. I see so much of talent here. My request to you is to show the world what you can do, he said. Chopra termed IFFJK a major opportunity for young filmmakers saying that the festival could bring films and filmmakers from across the world to Kashmir. I see this film festival as an opportunity for the youngsters. So many films and filmmakers can come here, he said. Talking about his education in Kashmir, Chopra said the Valley played an important role in shaping his journey. I am speaking in English language and I learnt the language in the school in Kashmir, he said. About cinema and Kashmir, Chopra said Kashmir had its own stories which need to be told and heard. We have our own stories. If a festival like IFFJK happens in Kashmir, then stories of Kashmir will be told, he said.
A win-win for cinema, J&K: Chief Secretary
Srinagar, Sep 7:The International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) commenced here on Monday, marking a push by the government to revive the regions historic ties with the global film industry and position the Valley once again as a premier shooting destination. Addressing the gathering during the inaugural ceremony at Inox Srinagar, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo said the festival offers a vital platform to restore the regions place in global entertainment. The four-day international film festival commenced in Kashmir today as the inaugural ceremony was held at 6 pm at SKICC, while the film screening session was inaugurated earlier at Inox Srinagar. The event will run as a four-day festival from September 7 and the film festival will bring together filmmakers, artists, and cinema lovers. People from all over the world and across various countries have come to participate and screen their films. Addressing the gathering at the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Secretary highlighted the global interest the initiative has generated. When the entries were invited for screening in this film festival, organizers received an overwhelming response of more than 1100 entries from 80 countries, he said. The Chief Secretary said that following the screening process and considering the availability of time, 135 entries were shortlisted to be screened over the four days of the festival. These 135 entries include more than 60 foreign films, representing films recorded and brought from 40 countries, he said. The Chief Secretary said the film festival was an opportunity to connect and reconnect J&K with the world of cinema. He extended his invitation to the film industry in India and abroad, to come to Jammu and Kashmir to explore its culture, cuisine, and heritage, and to make J&K once again a prominent film shooting destination. The Chief Secretary said the platform will provide significant opportunities for the region's highly talented and aspirational youth in various cinema-related fields, whether in photography, direction, acting, music, lyric writing, or working as technicians. He called it a win-win situation for both cinema and J&K saying that the administration aims to establish this connection once again and take it from strength to strength year after year. The organisers said the film festival was not merely going to be a film festival but an event and effort to bring local talent to the ground and connect local people directly with leaders in the industry. Alongside film screenings, the event will host discussions, live master classes, and connective opportunities for youth and local talent.
Centre may provide 100% funding support for medical testing equipment, says Piyush Goyal
The government will fully fund the acquisition of advanced medical testing equipment. Domestic firms are encouraged to seek technology partnerships and joint ventures. India aims to become a global hub for medical innovation and device development. Hospitals must offer transparent treatment packages and ethical patient care practices. Enhancing interpreter services will improve foreign patient confidence and communication.
Type 1 Diabetes May Not Be Just One Disease: What a New Study Found
A recent study has found that diabetes might have different subtypes instead of being one whole condition. If you are intrigued in knowing more about it, read this article.
Scientists covered 200 square metres of a Swiss glacier with sheeps wool; early tests found...
Armed forces given freedom, resources to respond decisively to threats: Rajnath Singh
India's defense minister stated forces have freedom and resources to strike adversaries inside their territory. The nation believes in peace but distinguishes it from weakness, responding decisively to terrorism. India is moving forward with independent agency amid geopolitical uncertainties and foiled adversary designs. The defense sector has transformed, boosting indigenous production and exports significantly. The government aims for self-reliance in defense and global leadership by 2047.
IFFJK 2026 inaugurated at SKICC in a colourful ceremony attended by CM Omar, others
Newborn dies, woman on ventilator after alleged private-room delivery in Rajouri
Rajouri, Sept 7: A startling incident has come to fore in Rajouri where a newborn baby allegedly died during delivery while the mother is battling for life and has been put on ventilator support at Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri. The woman, whose identity has been withheld, is a resident of Mammankote in Chassana tehsil of Mahore sub-division of Reasi district. She had been brought to GMC Rajouri for delivery. According to the womans family, she was allegedly taken from the hospital to a private room outside the hospital premises by a female nursing staffer, an ASHA worker and another woman on the pretext of facilitating a normal delivery. We were waiting for delivery of baby when the nursing staff and others approached and lured us. they said. The family alleged that complications developed during the delivery in the private room, following which the newborn died, while the womans condition deteriorated due to excessive bleeding and she was subsequently shifted for critical care at GMC Rajouri. Speaking about the incident, the womans husband alleged that the nursing staffer, ASHA worker and another woman had persuaded them to shift to the private room for delivery. He alleged that complications arose during the process, resulting in the death of the baby, while his wife is now battling for her life. The husband has demanded strict punishment against those found responsible for the incident. Meanwhile, Rajouri Police, in an official statement, said it had taken cognisance of a written complaint received at Police Station Rajouri regarding the circumstances surrounding the stillbirth of the newborn. Police said the involvement of two individuals, including a woman employee of GMC Rajouri, had surfaced in the case. A case, FIR No. 465/2026, under Sections 106(1)/3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), has been registered at Police Station Rajouri, and investigation is underway. The police investigation is expected to establish the circumstances leading to the newborns death and determine the role, if any, of the persons named in the complaint. Meanwhile, the Government Medical College and Associated Hospital Rajouri has constituted a four-member inquiry committee to conduct a detailed probe into the death of a newborn baby of a woman from Chassana, Reasi, amid allegations regarding the involvement of hospital staffers in the incident. The order, issued by Principal GMC Rajouri Prof. (Dr.) A.S. Bhatia on September 7, stated that the inquiry committee was constituted in view of a viral video circulating on social media regarding the death of the newborn of Sushma Devi, wife of Ragveer, resident of Chasana, Reasi, and allegations regarding the involvement of staffers from GMC & AH Rajouri. The committee has been tasked with enquiring into the matter in depth and recommending further action. It has been directed to submit its report to the Principals office within three days. The committee comprises Dr. Shamim Ahmed, Medical Superintendent, as Chairman; Dr. Chander Sheikhar, HoD Obstetrics and Gynaecology, as Member; Dr. Vidushi Badyal, HoD ENT, as Member; and Hanan Shawl (JKAS), Administrative Officer, as Member Secretary. The development comes amid allegations by the family of the woman that she was taken to a private room outside the hospital for delivery, following which complications allegedly developed, resulting in the death of the newborn while the mothers condition remained critical. Meanwhile, Rajouri Police has already taken cognisance of a written complaint regarding the circumstances surrounding the newborns stillbirth and registered FIR No. 465/2026 under Sections 106(1)/3(5) of the BNS at Police Station Rajouri. The police investigation is underway. The hospital-level inquiry is expected to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident and examine the alleged involvement of hospital staffers before recommending further action.
Kashmir is not just a location on a call sheet, it is a creative sanctuary: CM Omar at IFFJK
Best Facebook Video Downloader for Android and PC in 2026
Most people do not use one device. You see a video on your phone during the day and you want it on your laptop later, or you find something on your desktop and want it on your phone for the commute. Installing a separate tool on each, learning two interfaces, and remembering which one handles which content type is more effort than the task deserves. A browser-based downloader solves that by not caring what you are using. The same page, the same three steps, the same Facebook video download on an Android phone and on a Windows PC. The five tools below all work that way, apart from one that is worth knowing about for a specific reason. 1. FvidGo What Is FvidGo FvidGo is a free online Facebook downloader that runs entirely in the browser, with a Facebook Reels download page sitting next to the one for feed videos. There is nothing to install on either device, no account to create, and no daily limit. You paste a Facebook link, the page reads the post, and the download options appear with the HD version listed whenever the original upload has one. Because it is a website rather than software, it behaves identically on Chrome for Android, Chrome or Edge on Windows, Safari on a Mac or iPhone, and Firefox anywhere. There is no separate mobile version to fall behind the desktop one, because there is only one page. Key Features One browser page that works on Android, Windows, Mac, and iPhone alike Nothing to install and no account, so a new device needs no setup Covers feed videos, Reels, Stories, private videos, photos, and MP3 audio Resolution up to 1080p, taken from the original post SD and HD options shown side by side so you choose the file Unlimited free downloads, no registration, no daily cap Nothing stored on the server: no files kept, no download history logged How to Download a Facebook Video on Android or PC Copy the link. On Android, tap the three dots on the post in the Facebook app and choose Copy link. On a PC, right-click the video and copy the video URL, or copy the address of the post page. Open fvidgo.com in whatever browser you are already using and paste the link into the box. Pick SD or HD from the results and download. On Android the file goes to your gallery or Downloads; on Windows it goes to your Downloads folder. If you want the same video on both devices, either save it once on the PC and copy it across, or simply paste the same link again on the phone there is nothing to sync and no account tying the two together. Why FvidGo Works Best Across Devices Cross-device is exactly the situation a web tool is built for. There is no version drift, no per-platform feature gap, and no fifth app on your phone. Switching from your laptop to your phone means opening the same address, not learning a second interface. The rest of the reasons are the same ones that make it worth using on a single device. Downloads are unlimited and free with no account, so setting it up on a new machine takes zero minutes. The quality choice is visible in the results rather than hidden behind a menu, which is what stops you accidentally saving the small file. It covers every Facebook content type, from a Facebook Story download to private videos, so you are not swapping tools when the content type changes. And nothing is retained on its end, which is worth something when the same tool is being used from your work laptop and your personal phone. 2. Snaptube Snaptube is the exception on this list: it is an Android app, not a website, and there is no Windows or Mac version. That should be clear up front rather than glossed over. It is worth including because if the Android half of your setup is where most of your downloading happens, a native app gives you things a web page cannot. Snaptube covers more than 100 platforms, handles resolutions from 144p up to 8K depending on the source, and outputs MP4, MP3, and M4A. It has a built-in player for offline viewing, does batch and full-playlist downloads in the background, and remembers your format choice. You install it from the official site or from stores like Xiaomi GetApps, Huawei AppGallery, OPPO App Market, vivo V-Appstore, HONOR App Market, Samsung Galaxy Store, and Palm Store; it is not carried on Google Play. The app is around 20MB, asks only for storage permission, and is free with no subscription or hidden fees. 3. SnapSave SnapSave (snapsave.app) is a browser tool, so it works on Android and PC without any install. It covers public feed videos, Reels with the watermark removed, and Stories while they are still live, and it supports 1080p. Keep the name straight: snapsave.app and snapsave.io are separate sites with separate operators, and what you read about one does not apply to the other. This one does not handle private videos or closed-group content. The page also shows premium-style prompts worth ignoring, and there have been Reddit reports of small verification charges turning into recurring ones, so stay on the plain download path. 4. FDownloader FDownloader (fdownloader.net) is a web-based Facebook downloader covering public videos, a dedicated Reels page, MP3 conversion, and a private-video page. It supports 1080p, requires no install or registration, and works the same in a desktop or mobile browser. Its coverage is broad for a purely web tool, which is why several user communities rate it well among free Facebook Reels downloaders, and independent security scans came back clean in 2026. The drawbacks are routine: page ads, no batch downloading, and a fresh copy-paste for every video. Reviewers advise not entering account credentials on the private-video page. Note also that fdownloader.net and fdown.net are different sites with confusingly similar names. 5. Snapsave.io Snapsave.io is the other site in that naming family and a separate operation with its own pages. It handles public Facebook videos and Reels and has dedicated pages for saving a post as MP4 or extracting the MP3. It supports 1080p and works in a PC or phone browser with nothing installed. It has been gaining traffic steadily, which is a reasonable sign someone is actively maintaining it. On the other side, it does not support private videos or closed groups, there is no company information on the site, and its Trustpilot sample is too small to draw much from. As a plain paste-and-download option for public posts on either device, it works. Which One Should You Use? If you move between an Android phone and a PC, FvidGo is the straightforward answer: one page, no installs, full Facebook content coverage, and a visible quality choice on both devices. FDownloader is a good second browser option, particularly if you also want MP3. SnapSave and Snapsave.io both handle public videos and Reels fine. Add Snaptube on the Android side only if you download heavily from many platforms and want batch downloads and an offline player.
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ACB arrests land broker for accepting Rs 11,000 bribe in Srinagar
Srinagar, Sep 7: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Monday arrested a land broker for allegedly accepting Rs 11,000 bribe on behalf of a Patwari for issuance of revenue extracts in the Batmaloo area of Srinagar. In a statement issued, the spokesperson said the ACB received a written complaint alleging that Saleem Altaf, Patwari, Halqa Batmaloo, Srinagar, through his associate Ab. Hamid Khan, a land broker/tout, had demanded illegal gratification from the complainant for issuance of revenue extracts pertaining to his house. He said the complainant had applied online for the revenue extracts on behalf of his father for the purpose of attestation of mutation. It was alleged that the Patwari, through his associate Ab. Hamid Khan, initially demanded Rs 20,000, which was subsequently settled at Rs 16,000. The spokesperson said the complainant further alleged that the said tout had already compelled him to pay the first instalment of Rs 5,000 on behalf of the accused Patwari, while a second instalment of Rs 11,000 was demanded today on behalf of the accused Patwari for issuance of the revenue extracts. On receipt of the complaint, the allegations were verified and accordingly FIR No. 13/2026 under Section 7, 7A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 and Section 61(2) BNS was registered at P/S ACB Srinagar, and investigation taken up. The spokesperson said that during the course of investigation, a trap team was constituted by ACB Srinagar. During the trap proceedings, Ab. Hamid Khan was caught red-handed while demanding and accepting Rs 11,000 as illegal gratification on behalf of Patwari Saleem Altaf. The accused tout was taken into custody. During his personal search, in addition to the trap amount of Rs 11,000, cash amounting to Rs 25,125, payment slips, the revenue extract in question and a sale deed pertaining to Mohammad Sidiq Sheikh, son of Gh. Mohammad Sheikh, were recovered from his possession. The recovered articles have been taken into possession as per procedure and are being examined as part of the investigation. The involvement of Patwari Saleem Altaf in the demand and acceptance of illegal gratification through the tout Ab. Hamid Khan is being ascertained. The investigation in the case is underway.
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Fatima Sana Shaikh says film festival can give J&K youth a platform to be heard
Cultural festivals bring people together: Actor Fatima Sana at IFFJK
Srinagar, Sep 7: Actor Fatima Sana Shaikh, who played wrestler Geeta Phogat in the Bollywood biopic Dangal, on Monday said cultural festivals are important platforms that bring people together, provide opportunities to youth and promote regional cinema. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026, Fatma, according to the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO), said she is excited to attend the festival after a long time. It has been a long time since I attended a festival like this, so I am very excited. There are so many things happening. Cultural events like this are very important because they bring people together, she said. She said such platforms are particularly important for the youth, giving them opportunities to participate in cultural activities and showcase their talent. It is very important for the youth. People come from outside and they deserve these opportunities. People often look at things from the wrong perspective, but I am so proud that this is happening, that the youth are moving forward and participating in cultural activities. It makes me very happy to see people progressing, she said. On regional cinema, Fatima said cinema can help showcase the culture, poetry and artistry of different regions. Regional cinema is important. Through cinema, poetry, culture and artistry can be showcased. These things have existed for centuries. Spoken words, artistry and all of this are part of our heritage, she said. Fatima also said an international film festival could open doors for international filmmakers and create more opportunities for film shoots in Jammu and Kashmir. It will open doors for international filmmakers. Film shootings happened here earlier and they are happening now as well. It depends. With an international festival taking place, they will also understand what can be done here and what the people are like, she said. Asked about her Dangal co-star Zaira Wasim, Shaikh said they had not been in touch for several years, while recalling her experience of working with her. No, I haven't spoken to her for several years. I really enjoyed working with her. It is nice to see people find their own path, she said. Speaking about Kashmir, Shaikh also reflected on the region's natural beauty and water. There is water everywhere here. What is it about the water here that makes it different? she said.
Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch highway blocked for over 3 hours over assault on shopkeeper in Bhambla
Rajouri, Sept 7: The Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch National Highway remained blocked for over three-and-a-half hours on Monday afternoon as residents and traders of Bhambla market staged a protest against the alleged delay in arresting those accused of brutally assaulting a local shopkeeper. The protesters, mainly locals and traders from the Bhambla area along the Rajouri-Reasi border, blocked the highway, bringing traffic movement between Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch to a standstill. The protest was held over an incident reported four days ago in which local shopkeeper Sachin Puri was allegedly brutally assaulted by two youths inside his shop. Puri, who sustained serious injuries in the attack, is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Jammu and is stated to be in critical condition. The protesters accused the police of failing to take prompt action against the accused, claiming that both the alleged assailants had been identified but were yet to be arrested. They said the matter had already been brought to the notice of senior police officers and assurances had been given, but no concrete action had been taken so far. The protesters also alleged that the accused were moving freely despite their alleged involvement in the assault. The highway blockade caused considerable inconvenience to commuters, with traffic remaining disrupted for several hours. Later, police officers reached the spot and pacified the protesters. The officers assured them that all possible efforts were being made to apprehend those involved in the incident and that the accused, once arrested, would be dealt with strictly as per law. Following the assurances, the protesters lifted the blockade and traffic movement was restored.
J&K CM Omar Abdullah reaches SKICC in Srinagar for international film festival
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Nepal floods: Death toll surges to 1,356 as rescue efforts continue; nearly 5,000 still missing
Kathmandu, Sep 7: The death toll from the devastating flash floods in Nepal surged to 1,356 on Monday as more bodies were recovered from the affected areas, authorities said. Rescue teams continued to search for 4,996 people, including at least 589 foreign nationals, who remain missing, while around 13,400 people have been rescued so far, according to Nepals National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA). The flash floods, triggered by an ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26, devastated towns and villages in northern and central Nepal. The Bhotekoshi River, which flows south from the Himalayan border region, carried the floodwaters downstream, sweeping away homes, vehicles, roads and bridges and damaging hydropower projects. The disaster also killed at least 43 people on the Chinese side, while more than 500 people remain missing in Tibet, according to Chinese media reports. In Nepal, 363 bodies have been recovered in Chitwan district, 223 in Nawalparasi East, 221 in Nawalparasi West, 197 in Nuwakot, 169 in Rasuwa, 75 in Gorkha, 70 in Dhading and 38 in Tanahu, according to NDRRMA. Identification of bodies has emerged as a massive challenge. Only 98 bodies were identified as of Monday, and handed over to the families, according to NDRRMA. Most bodies recovered after being swept downstream severely damaged, decomposed or recovered only in parts. Police have said that bodies carried far from the disaster sites and those that remained in water and mud have made identification particularly difficult. Nepal Police has been collecting DNA samples from relatives of missing people to help identify unclaimed bodies and human remains recovered after the floods. More than 1,000 unidentified bodies have been buried after DNA samples were collected to facilitate their identification in the future, officials said. Hospitals struggled to cope with the growing number of unidentified bodies. Large crowds continued to gather at medical facilities, carrying photographs of missing relatives and scrutinising images of the dead displayed on the walls. Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel on Monday visited flood-affected areas of Nuwakot and Rasuwa districts to take stock of the situation and review rescue and relief operations. According to the Presidents Secretariat, he was briefed by senior officers on search and rescue operations, relief distribution, holding centres and rehabilitation efforts. Paudel also appealed to the international community to take concrete and effective measures to ensure climate justice for Nepal and other countries bearing the brunt of climate change. The president further said the disaster had exposed the exceptional fragility of the Himalayan environment and served as a stark warning about rising global temperatures and the growing risks associated with climate change. Nepal on Monday observed a national day of mourning on the 13th day of the disaster, as the government declared September 7 a national day of mourning to honour the victims of the catastrophic floods. The mourning was observed in keeping with the traditional Hindu practice of marking the 13th day following a death. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families and all those affected. India stands with Nepal in this difficult time and will continue to support Nepal's efforts towards search, rescue and relief, the Indian Embassy in Nepal said in a post on X. Several families of people missing since the August 26 floods gathered at Maitighar Mandala area in Kathmandu on Monday, carrying placards bearing photographs of their loved ones and urging the government to step up efforts to locate them. Thirteen days after the disaster, the families said they were still seeking clear information about the whereabouts of the missing and the progress of search and rescue operations. NDRRMA Executive Chief Dharma Raj Uprety said the government has deployed security personnel round-the-clock for search, rescue and relief operations. He further said relief had reached most of the affected areas, while efforts were continuing to deliver food and other essential supplies to locations accessible only by helicopter. Major rescue operations are also underway at hydropower projects in flood-affected districts, where 121 men are believed to be trapped in underground tunnels. The Nepali Army on Monday said search and rescue operations inside the tunnels would continue until a breakthrough is achieved, unless the government directs otherwise. Brigadier General Subash Jung Thapa said rescue teams were conducting continuous searches inside the tunnels. Army personnel, along with representatives of the Rasuwagadhi hydropower project, have reached the damaged powerhouse and the control point while searching for possible survivors, he said. Nepali Army spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet said the rescue operation had been divided into three areas air, ground and tunnel searches with the Army working alongside other security agencies. Teams of experts from India and China are assisting their Nepali counterparts in these operations. Australian tunnel expert Arnold Dix, who helped rescue 41 workers from India's Silkyara tunnel in 2023, is also assisting in the search for people believed to be trapped inside the Chilime hydropower project tunnel. Meanwhile, Nepal has stepped up efforts to reassure international tourists that the country remains open for travel, as it seeks to prevent the recent flash floods from derailing its crucial autumn tourism season and undoing a fragile recovery in the sector. Tourism Minister Khadak Raj Poudel has launched a social media campaign under the hashtag Nepal Calling, telling foreign tourists that the country remains open and its Himalayan trekking routes are ready to receive visitors. Nepal is still open... Our Himalayan trekking routes are still waiting for you, he said in a video message posted on social media. Tourism contributes about 6.7 per cent to Nepal's GDP directly and indirectly and provides more than one million jobs. Fall in the number of foreign tourist arrivals could have a wider economic impact, affecting hotels, trekking agencies, guides, porters, airlines, restaurants and transport operators.
