Health & Fitness

Omar: Government will ensure MLAs get satisfactory response during Assembly session

Nepal flood death toll crosses 1,400; over 6,000 still missing

In Nepal, the tragic aftermath of flash floods has claimed more than fourteen hundred lives, while over six thousand people are still missing. The Bhotekoshi River's relentless torrents have obliterated homes and critical infrastructure. Rescuers face immense hurdles in identifying the deceased, as DNA testing becomes indispensable for confirming victims after their extended time submerged in water.

India rejects Pakistan-China boundary commission, says J&K and Ladakh are integral parts

New Delhi, Sep 16: India on Wednesday rejected the so-called Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission, asserting that it had no legal basis and that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were integral and inalienable parts of the country. Responding to media queries, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Indias position on the matter was clear and consistent and maintained that there was no boundary between Pakistan and China. We reject the so-called Joint Commission, which is without any legal basis, Jaiswal said. He said Pakistan had no locus standi to enter into arrangements concerning Indian territory under its illegal and forcible occupation. Jaiswal reiterated that India had never recognised the so-called 1963 China-Pakistan Boundary Agreement and had consistently maintained that it was illegal and invalid. He said India resolutely opposed any attempt to alter the status of the occupied territories or legitimise what it described as illegal occupation, asserting that such actions impinged on the countrys sovereignty and territorial integrity. Any so-called boundary cooperation between China and Pakistan concerning Indian territories would be completely unacceptable and would have no bearing whatsoever on Indias sovereignty over these territories, the spokesperson said. Calling on Pakistan to vacate the areas under its occupation, Jaiswal said Islamabad should immediately vacate from areas under its illegal and forcible occupation. The statement comes amid reports concerning the Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission, which India has rejected as lacking legal validity.

Itchy Skin At Night? Expert Explains What Causes It And When Should You Worry

Night-time itching can have more than one cause. A dermatologist explains how the skin barrier and body clock play a role, and when persistent itching needs medical attention.

Meet Anirudh Rao, the 11-year-old building a drone system to predict tornadoes

Drone attack near Holy City of Makkah deeply disturbing, condemnable: Mirwaiz

Srinagar, Sep 16: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq on Wednesday expressed deep concern over reports of a drone attack near the Holy City of Makkah Al-Mukarramah. In a post on X, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said: Reports of a drone attack near the Holy City of Makkah Al-Mukarramah are deeply disturbing and condemnable, causing anguish among Muslims worldwide. With the region already reeling under prolonged conflict, all sides must exercise restraint and urgently return to dialogue and diplomacy. Reports of a drone attack near the Holy City of Makkah Al-Mukarramah are deeply disturbing and condemnable, causing anguish among Muslims worldwide. With the region already reeling under prolonged conflict, all sides must exercise restraint and urgently return to dialogue and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq (@MirwaizKashmir) September 16, 2026

Lieutenant Governor attends Shri Shiv Mahapuran Katha in Raebareli

Srinagar, Sep 16: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended the Shri Shiv Mahapuran Katha in Raebareli, in the holy presence of the revered Pandit Pradeep Mishra Ji. He observed that the divine teaching of Lord Shiva is a sacred pilgrimage for seekers of truth. The Lieutenant Governor extended heartfelt gratitude to Hon'ble Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Manoj Kumar Pandey, for organising this extraordinary spiritual gathering, which has infused new vitality among the people. He remarked that just as gold is refined by fire, holy company rekindles and purifies the spiritual energy within our souls. Highlighting the eternal vision of universal welfare, the Lieutenant Governor recalled that Sanatana Dharma has always emphasised unity and harmony. He noted that under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is manifesting this philosophy globally. Referring to the recent BRICS Summit in Delhi, the Lieutenant Governor observed that the ancient mantra Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam- the world is one family- is now being embraced by nations worldwide as a foundation for peace and collective welfare. What our ancestors envisioned millennia ago is now being embraced by nations worldwide, as they step forward to adopt this philosophy for peace and harmony, he said. The Lieutenant Governor urged society to remain vigilant against divisive elements and emphasised that unity is Indias greatest strength. He reminded the gathering that Sanatana culture nurtures diversity, harmony, and human welfare. He called upon saints and enlightened members of society to guide the nation in realising comprehensive development. The Lieutenant Governor affirmed his confidence that the spirit of unity will once again make India a developed nation, restoring its ancient glory. A time has come when we shall guide the world and saints and enlightened members of society will play a vital role and bear great responsibility in this mission. The power of unity and its spirit will once again make India a developed nation, and I am fully confident that we shall regain our ancient glory, the Lieutenant Governor said.

Ignoring Constipation? You May Be Missing an Underlying Health Problem: Know When to Worry

Constipation has become a common lifestyle condition in India with one in five people affected by it. Unfortunately most people dismiss it to be a normal issue but it may actually be a warning sign of an underlying condition.

Shaving Your Head For Hair Growth? Expert Explains The Benefits You May Actually Get

Shaving your head may make scalp care easier, but it does not boost hair growth. Explore the benefits, vitamin D concerns, and the dandruff myths of a shaved scalp.

IGP Kashmir reviews security, preparedness of police functionaries across Central Kashmir Range

Srinagar, Sep 16: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone Sujit Kumar chaired a security review meeting at PCR Kashmir to assess the prevailing security situation and review the preparedness of police functionaries across the Central Kashmir Range. The meeting was attended by DIG CKR Srinagar, SSsP of Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal, SSP PCR Kashmir, SO to IGP Kashmir, SsP of Srinagar and Budgam, all SDPOs and other senior police officers. At the outset, the participating officers briefed IGP Kashmir on the prevailing security situation in their respective areas of responsibility and apprised him of the security grid put in place to maintain peace, public order and a secure environment. During the meeting, IGP Kashmir reviewed the security grid and preparedness across the Central Kashmir Range, with particular focus on the deployment and operational readiness of personnel. IGP Kashmir stressed the need to enhance CI operations, area domination, intensify naka checking at vulnerable locations and strengthen checking and surveillance along inter-district borders. IGP Kashmir further directed the officers to ensure that security arrangements remain dynamic and responsive to any vulnerable situation. He emphasized the importance of regular assessment of security arrangements and timely strengthening of deployments wherever required. IGP Kashmir also directed the officers to remain vigilant and ensure that all necessary preventive measures are in place for maintaining peace and public safety. The meeting concluded with directions to all concerned officers to maintain round-the-clock vigilance, strengthen preventive security measures and ensure close coordination among field formations for maintaining a peaceful and secure environment across the Central Kashmir Range.

Eating Ghee During Pregnancy for a 'Normal' Delivery? Doctor Breaks Down Myth

There is a popular belief that ghee can help pregnant women with a seamless normal delivery. Is this a myth or reality? Our expert decodes.

Srinagar Smart City: Has mobility really improved? | Episode 2

In the second episode of our series on Srinagar Smart City, we take a closer look at one of the project's biggest promisesbetter mobility for the common people. With crores spent on upgrading Srinagar's infrastructure, has the Smart City project actually made commuting smoother, especially during the summer months? GKTV speaks to traders, transporters, senior officials and commuters to bring you a ground reality check on how the Smart City works have impacted mobility across Srinagar. Report: Saqib Mailk

Kashmir winter debate begins early: El Nio not the only factor, says JNU professor

Is Rajma and Rice a 'Complete' Protein Meal for Vegetarians? Dietitian Explains

Rice and rajma can be termed as the perfect combination for a vegetarian to get the right amount of protein intake. Our expert explains why. Read ahead.

EPFO wage ceiling hiked from 15,000 to 25,000; 51 lakh more employees to benefit

Cow Creek Wildfire: Florida forest rebounds with flowers and pollinators; shows fire-shaped ecology

MHA declares Pak-based Shahzad Bhatti network a terrorist organisation under UAPA

New Delhi, Sep 16: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said the government has declared Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Shah said the action came pursuing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of zero tolerance against terror. The group is involved in smuggling of arms, explosives and narcotics across borders, apart from inciting youths and petty criminals into terrorism. Targeting India's democratic structure and the fabric of communal harmony, the syndicate also published hateful digital content, the minister said on X. A gazette notification issued by the Union Home Affairs on Wednesday invoked Section 35(1)(a) of the UAPA to add Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) to the First Schedule of the Act, which lists banned terrorist organisations. The action was taken as the Centre believes that SBN was involved in errorism and has participated in various acts of terrorism in India. 'Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN)' is an organisation whose objective is to involve gullible youth and local criminals to smuggle arms, explosives, and narcotics from across the border, and through terrorist activities, pose a serious threat to the democratic system, communal harmony, and internal security of the country, the notification said. The notification cited criminal cases against alleged SBN members under such laws as the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, Explosives Act, Information Technology Act and Prevention of Defacement of Property Act. Under the UAPA, the addition of an outfit to the First Schedule formally places it among the organisations designated errorist under Indian law. SBN is the 46th entry on the list. According to the notification, the SBN is involved in adicalising gullible youth by offering allurements, motivating them for anti-national activities, and mobilising resources for anti-national acts in collusion with other banned outfits and similarly designated entities. And whereas, the 'Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN)' is promoting terrorism through violent activities that disrupt public order and by using various digital communication platforms to disseminate provocative messages, posing a serious challenge to the integrity of the nation, the notification read.

PHE daily wagers protest in Srinagar, seek regularisation

7 Simple Ways to Calm Yourself When Youre Stressed

Stress is an inevitable part of life. Sadly, it may overwhelm some people, leading to chronic stress. So, before it takes over your everyday life, here are some tips to calm yourself down.

Dr. Nicole Saphier, Trump's 3rd surgeon general pick, faces Senate grilling

A radiologist who's a former Fox News contributor will be facing lawmakers as President Donald Trumps third nominee for surgeon general

Statehood restoration requires dialogue and persuasion, not confrontation: Altaf Bukhari

Jammu, Sep 16: Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari on Wednesday said the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir would require sustained dialogue and persuasion with the Centre, rather than confrontation. Asked about the roadmap that the government should adopt for it, Bukhari said, There is only one way forward on the restoration of statehood, and that is dialogue. There is no other way. Opposing the path of confrontation, he said, J-K has seen enough confrontation since 1947. You have to convince, you have an argument. It may not be easy, but Delhi has to be convinced and we have an argument. Bukhari referred to the historical status of Jammu and Kashmir, saying, We are a 200-year-old state. He also referred to the recent mobilisation in Ladakh and said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir could similarly make their collective voice heard. If two-and-a-half lakh people in Ladakh can make their voice heard, perhaps these 13 million people of Jammu and Kashmir can also do so if we show courage, he told reporters here. But since we have mortgaged ourselves to political parties, what argument will we make? Those parties are merely passing their time, he said. He questioned the priorities of the proposed all-party meeting being held ahead of the Assembly session, particularly in the backdrop of ongoing protests by medical employees and MBBS interns. Is anything significant going to come out of this meeting? This all-party meeting is being held before the Assembly session. They will discuss how the salaries of legislators will be increased. Tell me, how will their salaries be increased? he said. Bukhari questioned why similar attention was not being given to the demands of NHM employees and medical interns protesting for an increase in their internship allowance. At the same time, Bukhari said his opposition to the government did not mean support for any undemocratic attempt to remove it. The last gift of democracy that the Government of India has given us is an elected government. Therefore, we do not want anyone to interfere with it. If this government has to go, the people will remove it, he said. We will oppose it every day and leave no stone unturned in doing so, because we are doing it for the people. But that does not mean that it should be removed through undemocratic means, Bukhari said. Bukhari said there is a need for a wider debate on caste-based legislation and reservation policies, including whether benefits should continue to accrue to the same families or be provided at the entry point. Wherever bills are made and implemented on the basis of caste, I think after 76 years, we need to examine who should be brought where and at what stage, he said. Take reservation, for instance. Should we continue giving reservation to one family, give it to one person in a family, or provide reservation at the entry point? This is a very broad subject, Bukhari said, adding that he would elaborate on the issue at an appropriate seminar or discussion.

Samosa For Just Rs 1 - Allahabad Vendor Has Been Selling This Mini Snack For 22 Years

This Allahabad vendor has been selling mini samosas for nearly 22 years, and each one reportedly costs just Re1.

Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban For Indian Aircraft Till Oct 24

The extension came into effect at 10:45 am on Wednesday and will remain until 04:59 am on Oct 24, 2026

What Does Loose Motion During Pregnancy Actually Mean? We Asked An Gynaecologist

Loose motion during pregnancy does not always mean something is wrong. Find out what causes this, whether it can signal labour and how to manage it safely during pregnancy.

Govt raises EPFO wage ceiling to Rs 25,000 per month from Rs 15,000

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a proposal to raise the wage ceiling for mandatory coverage under the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to Rs 25,000 per month from Rs 15,000. The wage ceiling revision is taking place after 12 years. The decision is expected to bring more than 51 lakh additional employees within the ambit of mandatory EPFO coverage, significantly widening social security protection for workers, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said at a press briefing. The EPFO wage ceiling remained unchanged from 2004 to 2014 and was enhanced to Rs 15,000 in September 2014. The present decision carries forward this approach by further raising the ceiling to Rs 25,000 to reflect sustained wage growth, rising incomes and continued expansion of formal employment over the intervening years, an official release said. The annual government outgo is estimated at about Rs 11,339 crore against the existing annual budgetary support of about Rs 10,25

My Mouth Is Burning, Russian Woman Tries Banana Sabzi Made By Indian Mother-In-Law

Kseniia, a Russian woman married to an Indian man, Uddeshya, shares her take on the spicy version of banana

Omar Abdullah to Ladakh leaders: Dont trust Centres verbal promises, get them in writing

Srinagar, Sep 16: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has cautioned the political leadership in Ladakh and Kargil against relying on verbal assurances from the Centre, advising them to seek written and signed commitments on their demands. Speaking about the ongoing issues in Ladakh, Abdullah said the region had its own concerns, separate from those of Jammu and Kashmir, but offered its leaders advice based on his own experience. Now, Ladakh has its own issues. Our issues are different. But I can only advise the leaders of Ladakh, as a friend and elder brother: please do not believe any promise made by the central government unless it is given to you in writing and signed, he said. Because we have suffered from the same thing, Abdullah added. The chief minister referred to the Centres alleged verbal assurance regarding restoration of J&Ks statehood after the Assembly elections, saying that the commitment had not materialised. We were also given a verbal promise that immediately after the elections, statehood would be restored. It has now been almost two years, and that promise is nowhere to be seen, he said. Abdullahs remarks come amid continuing demands in Ladakh for greater political safeguards and constitutional protections, with the regions leadership pressing the Centre on issues including statehood and representation. Addressing the leaders of Ladakh and Kargil directly, Abdullah urged them to insist on formal documentation of any commitment made by the Centre. To the leaders of Ladakh and Kargil, my folded-hands request would be: please do not believe verbal promises made by the central government, he said. Unless you get something in writing, in the form of an affidavit, I do not think the people of Ladakh will be able to achieve anything, Abdullah added. He said the outcome would ultimately depend on what the people of Ladakh were able to secure through the ongoing process. The rest, whatever is in their destiny, they will get, he said.

Omar cautions Ladakh leaders against trusting verbal assurances from Centre

Healthy Snack or Sugar Trap? Dietitian Breaks Down Flavoured Yoghurt

Flavoured yoghurt can be a convenient source of protein, calcium and beneficial live cultures. But are they as nutritious as plain yoghurts? Read to know the answer.

Egypt is growing crops beneath solar panels in the desert; the unusual idea could save water

Pall of gloom in Daharmuna Budgam after youth found dead near Ring Road

In 2009, 55 acres of invasive forest began a decade-long return to native habitat

90 new cars for MLAs as NHM staff, interns protest over low pay: Mehboob Beg

Elderly man dies four days after losing son, grandson in Soibugh road mishap

Budgam, Sept 16: Tragedy struck a family in Budgam again on Wednesday, as four days after losing his son and three-year-old grandson in a road accident, their grandfather collapsed and died at a graveyard during the funeral rites. Neighbours and relatives said that the elderly man collapsed at the graveyard in the afternoon while the family was attending the funeral rites. They said he was shifted to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. The deceased was identified as Ghulam Hassan Mir (62), a resident of Ghoom Ahmadpora, Magam. Pertinently, Mirs son, Naseer Ahmad Mir (29), and grandson, Hadi Ali (03), were killed in a road accident in the Soibugh area of Budgam on September 12. Naseers wife, Dilshada Akhter (26), was critically injured in the accident and shifted to hospital for treatment. The incident has sent shockwaves through the area, with residents and relatives expressing grief over the successive deaths in the family.(KNO)

Omar Abdullah reviews development projects worth 86 crore in Pulwama

Check facts before raising fingers: Rahim Rather hits back at LoP over Assembly session

Srinagar, Sep 16: Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Abdul Raheem Rather on Wednesday hit back at Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma over his criticism on the duration of the upcoming Autumn session. Addressing media persons during a meeting convened ahead of the upcoming Autumn session of the House, Speaker asked the LoP Sunil Sharma to check facts before raising fingers saying that J&Ks record of Assembly sittings was better than the national average. He said the 10-day session, comprising seven working days, was planned in accordance with the business before the House and there was no purpose in extending it unnecessarily. The Speaker said the Autumn session was traditionally shorter and would deal with government business, including legislative work, besides private members business. It won't serve any purpose to have a long session. We have to keep it as per the business, Rather said. Taking on the Opposition over its criticism of the session's duration, Rather cited figures from different state legislatures and said J&K has an average of 28 Assembly sittings against a national average of 24. Our position is best when we compare our position with other legislatures. J&K is performing better in terms of holding sittings, he said. Rather said the Constitution required that the gap between two sessions should not exceed six months and alleged that some legislatures held sittings largely to fulfil this constitutional requirement. He specifically referred to Assam, governed by the BJP, and said the state had convened a one-day Autumn session. Ask the LoP about Assam which is governed by BJP. Sunil Sharma (our LoP) served as the BJP's election in-charge for the state. He should answer this, Rather added. The Speaker also said that as compared to the sessions, as per the figures, of other states including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab and Goa J&K's Assembly has performed favourably with legislatures elsewhere. He said Gujarat, after its Assembly was adjourned in March, met again in September for three days, while Rajasthan had two sittings, Uttar Pradesh four, Madhya Pradesh five, Punjab six and Goa five. My request to the LoP is to check facts before raising fingers, Rather said. He also referred to the duration of Autumn sessions held under previous governments, saying the J&K Assembly, when the erstwhile state had greater legislative powers, held its 2015 Autumn session from October 3 to 10. In 2017, he said, the Autumn session lasted four days, from July 4 to 8. The present LoP was part of the decision-making process at the time. We are now holding the session for 10 days and opposition (LoP) says we are making a joke of it, Rather said. The Speaker said the length of an Assembly session should be determined by the volume of business and not merely extended to increase the number of days. He also pointed to the expenditure involved in convening the House. Speaker of the Legislative Assembly called upon the media to exercise greater caution and responsibility while reporting the proceedings of the legislature. The media is a respected section of society and Journalists act as an important bridge between the government and the people, he said. Rather said the media had the responsibility of communicating government policies, programmes and performance to the public while honestly conveying people's problems and aspirations to the government as well. On media coverage of the Assembly proceedings, Speaker urged the journalists to prefer quality of legislative proceedings over disruptions and noisy scenes. Prefer quality over noise. Make performance primary so that the legislators should realise that adherence to rules, law and meaningful participation in the House will attract greater media attention than disorderly conduct, he said. He said excessive focus on ruckus could tempt other members, particularly younger legislators, to resort to similar behaviour for attention. Legislators should feel that sensible behaviour in the House will invite more coverage, he added. The Speaker also cautioned journalists to report Assembly proceedings with due care and avoid any reach of privilege. He also assured the media of smooth arrangement saying that efforts would be made to address inconveniences faced by journalists during previous sessions. The Autumn session of the J&K Legislative Assembly is scheduled to commence on September 21, 2026.

PIB, NCB step up media outreach on Centres fight against drug trafficking

Pakistan envoy summoned over naval collision with Indian Navy unit

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday summoned the Charge dAffaires of the High Commission for Pakistan in New Delhi and lodged a strong protest over what it described as the unacceptable and unprofessional conduct of Pakistani naval units that resulted in a collision with an Indian Navy unit. According to the MEA, the incident took place in international waters and did not cause any major damage. The ministry said the conduct of the Pakistani naval ship was in direct contravention of Article 10 of the 1991 Agreement between India and Pakistan on Advance Notice on Military Exercises, Manoeuvres and Troops Movements. The Pakistani Charge dAffaires was asked to convey to the concerned authorities the need for all military units to exercise due care and adhere to the provisions of relevant agreements between the two countries to prevent such incidents from recurring, the MEA said. The ministry also said Indias Charge dAffaires in Islamabad had been instructed to lodge a similar protest with Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Four Him Sarovar ponds filled with glacier meltwater in five months: LG Saxena

All four large ponds constructed under Project Him Sarovar at Spituk Farka in Leh have been filled with glacier meltwater within five months, Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said in a post on X. Saxena said construction of the four ponds began on April 10, 2026, and concluded with the recharge and operationalisation of the fourth pond on September 9. According to the LG, Pond No. 1 was inaugurated on June 21, Pond No. 2 was filled on July 19, Pond No. 3 on August 24 and Pond No. 4 on September 9. Each pond measures 60 metres by 40 metres by 2 metres and is designed to store approximately 60 lakh litres of glacier meltwater. Together, the four ponds can store nearly 24 million litres of water, he said. Saxena said the stored water would help create a new command area of nearly 1,000 acres while supporting irrigation, ecological restoration and long-term water security. He said the ponds are being directly replenished by glacier meltwater from the Stok glacier stream, with seasonal flows diverted into the Igoo-Phey Canal to feed the reservoirs. This diversion ensures that huge volumes of water, earlier wasted, are now conserved for irrigation, ecological restoration, and long-term water security, Saxena said. The LG said the achievement reflected the administrations commitment to environmental resilience, agricultural revival and sustainable water security in Ladakhs cold desert.

The Simple Reason People Are Keeping Used Coffee Grounds In Their Refrigerators

Coffee has a naturally rich aroma, and its texture allows it to absorb some of the smell-causing particles present in the air.

Did Julius Caesar Really Invent the 'Caesarean' Section? The True Story Behind the C-Section

Have you ever wondered how the pregnancy surgical procedure C-section was invented or who named it? This article will take you through its history and origin.

Pirates hunted Galapagos tortoises to extinction; after 180 years, they returned home

Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum: Preserving South Indias culture, tradition

Saudi Arabia says Houthi drone intercepted near Mecca; Houthis deny targeting holy city

Saudi Arabia has warned Yemens Houthi group against attacks near the holy city of Mecca after its air defences intercepted and destroyed a drone south of the city on Tuesday. The Saudi-led military coalition said the drone was brought down before it could enter prohibited airspace over Mecca. Coalition spokesperson Turki al-Malki said the security of Islams two holiest sites and pilgrims was a red line, warning that necessary deterrent measures would be taken against the Houthis. Mecca is Islams holiest city and home to sites visited by millions of Muslims during the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Al-Malki described the incident as the second alleged Houthi attempt to target Mecca, following what the coalition said was a ballistic missile launch towards the city in July 2017. The Houthis, however, rejected the Saudi claim. Houthi spokesperson Hazem al-Assad said on social media that allegations of targeting Mecca were a repeated claim that no longer fools anyone. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) condemned what it described as an attack targeting Islams holy city and blamed the Houthis. The 57-member grouping also denounced what it called continued aggression against Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities issued security alerts across several parts of the kingdom on Tuesday, including Mecca, amid a series of attacks by Iran-aligned fighters that have increased tensions in the region. The US Embassy subsequently advised Americans to reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia, citing risks including drone and missile attacks, armed conflict and terrorism. It also warned against travel to areas near the Yemen border. The latest incident comes as the Houthis have expanded their operations around the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a key global shipping route. The group has claimed several attacks against Saudi targets in recent days, including a strike on an airbase on Monday, which it said was retaliation for Saudi-led airstrikes in Yemen.

Florida oyster reef restoration helped marine life return within 18 months

Reading For Pleasure May Be Good For Your Health And Wellbeing, Study Finds

Reading is a very good habit that not only helps you unwind but it might also help boost your holistic health, according to a recent study. To learn more, read this article.

A childhood rite moves indoors as kindergartners learn to ride bikes in school gyms

Learning to ride a bike, a classic childhood milestone, is now happening in school gyms and playgrounds

Body found near Ring Road in Daharmuna Budgam

Budgam, Sep 16: A dead body was found near the Ring Road at Dharmunah in Budgam district on Wednesday, officials said. The deceased has been identified as Arif Ahmad Bhat, son of Bashir Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Gotapora Narbal, Budgam. Police reached the spot after receiving information about the recovery and took cognizance of the incident. The circumstances leading to the death were not immediately clear. Police have initiated necessary proceedings to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the death.

OIC condemns Houthi attacks on Mecca, Medina region

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has condemned what it described as heinous attacks launched by the Houthi group on the holy city of Mecca and the Medina region. In a statement, the OIC General Secretariat said the attacks were intended to terrorise civilians, violate the sanctity of holy sites and mosques, and provoke the feelings of Muslims around the world. The organisation said attacks on holy sites, mosques and civilian objects constituted terrorism and contradicted Islamic values, international norms and laws. It described any violation of the sanctity of holy sites as a transgression that cannot be accepted or tolerated, adding that those responsible must be deterred. The OIC also expressed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and backed measures taken by the kingdom to protect holy sites and civilians, as well as its security and sovereignty.

How Alzheimers Care Is Largely Palliative

Current therapies in trials could slow progression in humans; a compound has only been tested in mice, and experts caution against reading too much into early results

J&K Bank cautions customers against fake eKYC apps, phishing links

Srinagar, Sept 16: Customers have been cautioned against scammers circulating fake eKYC applications and fraudulent links through WhatsApp, SMS and social media. The scammers often create a sense of urgency by claiming that a customers bank account may be blocked unless KYC details are updated, the advisory said. Customers have been urged not to download apps from unknown sources or click on links received from unfamiliar senders. They have also been warned against sharing their one-time passwords (OTPs), PINs, passwords or other banking details. Any KYC-related communication should be verified through official J&K Bank channels, while suspicious calls or messages should be reported immediately. Customers have been advised to remain alert and avoid responding to messages that seek sensitive banking information.

Haj pilgrims' medical certificate submission deadline extended to Sep 30

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 16: The deadline for Haj pilgrims to submit their medical screening certificates has been extended to September 30, officials have said. The Haj Committee of India announced the extension following the intervention of Keralam Haj Affairs Minister N Samsudheen, his office said in a statement. The minister had earlier written to the Union Minority Affairs Ministry and the Haj Committee of India, highlighting the difficulties faced by pilgrims and seeking an extension of the deadline. Considering his request and the difficulties faced by the pilgrims, the deadline for submitting the medical screening certificates was extended, the statement said. Samsudheen thanked the Union Minority Affairs Ministry and the Haj Committee of India for extending the deadline and taking the decision in the interest of the pilgrims, it added.

Saudi crown prince seeks Egypt's backing as Houthi attacks rattle Red Sea oil routes

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince met Egypt's President seeking support against Houthi rebel attacks. These attacks threaten vital shipping lanes and Saudi oil infrastructure significantly. The Houthi advances have also intensified the conflict within Yemen itself. Egypt's backing offers political influence and international rallying for Saudi Arabia. The kingdom faces difficult choices regarding military action or diplomatic solutions.

John Moretti donned a wetsuit and found Ice Age animals in a Texas cave

Javid Dar reviews Forest, PMGSY projects in Rafiabad

Srinagar, Sep 15: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today chaired a detailed review meeting to assess the progress of ongoing Forest and PMGSY road projects in Rafiabad constituency. The meeting was attended by Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir; Chief Engineer, PMGSY, Kashmir; Conservator of Forests, North Kashmir; Superintending Engineer, PMGSY; DFOs Langate and Baramulla, besides other concerned officers. During the meeting, the Minister took a detailed review of the status of ongoing road connectivity projects being executed under PMGSY and other Capex-funded schemes in Rafiabad and adjoining areas. He sought project-wise updates from the concerned officers, with focus on the pace of execution, completion timelines and issues hampering the progress of works. Emphasizing the importance of road connectivity in accelerating development, Javid Dar said that effective implementation of public welfare and development projects is closely linked with reliable connectivity, particularly in rural and far-flung areas. He directed the concerned officers to ensure the timely completion of all ongoing road projects under PMGSY and other Capex funds within the stipulated timelines while maintaining quality standards and ensuring judicious utilization of public funds. The Minister called for greater coordination among the concerned departments to address bottlenecks, streamline the execution process and ensure that the benefits of developmental schemes reach the people without delays. Highlighting the considerable tourism potential of Rafiabad and its adjoining areas, Javid Dar stressed the need to create and upgrade infrastructure to facilitate tourism-related activities and promote local economic opportunities. He underscored that infrastructure development in the region must be pursued in a balanced and sustainable manner, ensuring that the ecological balance, natural beauty and forest identity of the area are preserved. Development and environmental conservation must go hand in hand. Our endeavour should be to create modern infrastructure while protecting the rich natural resources and forest wealth of the region, the Minister maintained. He called for coordinated planning and execution of road and other infrastructure projects so that developmental needs are met without compromising environmental sustainability. The Minister directed the concerned officers to examine the pending issues on priority and ensure that all necessary clearances are processed expeditiously to avoid delays in the execution of important public infrastructure projects. He called for close coordination between the Forest and PMGSY departments to resolve inter-departmental issues, accelerate ongoing works and improve road connectivity in Rafiabad and adjoining areas.

Javid Dar attends national launch of Swachh Seva Aankalan

Srinagar, Sep 15: Minister for Agriculture Production & Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, today participated virtually in a high-level meeting convened by the Union Ministry for Jal Shakti regarding the launch of SwachhSevaAankalan (SSA) framework and the planning and preparatory arrangements for the upcoming Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2026 campaign in rural areas. The meeting was chaired by Union Minister for Jal Shakti C. R. Patil and attended by senior officers of the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Union Ministry for Jal Shakti. From the J&K government, Anoo Malhotra, Director General, Rural Sanitation, J&K, along with other senior officers of the Directorate of Rural Sanitation, participated in the meeting. On the sidelines of the meeting, the Union Jal Shakti Minister formally launched the Swachh Seva Aankalan (SSA) framework. During the interaction, Javid Ahmad Dar briefed the Union Minister on the preparations being undertaken by Jammu and Kashmir for Swachhata Hi Seva 2026. These included planned activities aimed at strengthening community participation, promoting behavioural change, improving cleanliness and waste management practices, besides ensuring visible and sustainable sanitation outcomes across rural areas. The Minister highlighted that J&K has already initiated preparations for the campaign and is working on a range of innovative, community-centric and convergence-based activities involving Panchayati Raj Institutions, rural communities, field functionaries and concerned departments. He also apprised the Union Minister of the preparations being undertaken at the grassroots level to make SHS 2026 impactful and inclusive across J&K. The sanitation arrangements and practices adopted by Jammu and Kashmir during the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra were lauded by the Union Ministry during the meeting. The J&K Yatra sanitation model was appreciated as a good practice, with its framework being considered for replication in other States and Union Territories. The meeting reviewed measures to strengthen rural sanitation services, improve monitoring mechanisms and ensure sustained improvement in sanitation outcomes at the Gram Panchayat level. SwachhSevaAankalan (SSA) is an annual digital self-assessment framework for declared ODF Plus (Model) Gram Panchayats, covering key parameters including sustainability of ODF status, solid and liquid waste management, implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, visual cleanliness, operation and maintenance of sanitation assets and functionality of Community Sanitary Complexes. The assessment will be validated through Gram Sabha deliberations to ensure community participation, transparency and accountability. Javid Dar stressed the need for sustained efforts to strengthen sanitation services at the grassroots level and ensure effective and timely delivery of government initiatives to rural communities. He called for coordinated efforts among concerned departments, Panchayati Raj Institutions and field functionaries, with greater community participation to achieve the objectives of SBM-G Phase II. The Minister also assured the Union Minister that Jammu and Kashmir is fully geared up for both SwachhSevaAankalan and Swachhata Hi Seva 2026. The administration has initiated comprehensive planning and preparatory activities to ensure their effective implementation and make the campaigns a grand success across the Union Territory.

JKEEGA celebrates 59th Engineers Day in Srinagar

Srinagar, Sep 15: The Jammu and Kashmir Electrical Engineering Graduates Association (JKEEGA) today celebrated the 59th Engineers Day at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, commemorating the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. The event was attended by Shri Atal Dulloo, IAS, Chief Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir, as the Chief Guest, and Shri Ashwani Kumar, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department, as the Guest of Honour, besides senior officers, serving and retired engineers and members of the engineering fraternity. The speakers highlighted the significant role of engineers in the development of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in strengthening infrastructure, the power sector, technology and public service delivery. Tributes were paid to Sir M. Visvesvaraya for his pioneering contribution to engineering and nation-building. The gathering also paid homage to engineers and employees who lost their lives while performing their duties. Speaking on the occasion, JKEEGA General Secretary Er.Pirzada Mohammad Hidayatullah highlighted the associations efforts towards strengthening professional unity, promoting engineering excellence and providing a platform for constructive dialogue among engineers. The celebrations also featured audiovisual presentations highlighting the contribution of engineers and developments in the power sector. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Er. Fayaz Ahmad Wani, who expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, officers and members of the engineering fraternity for their participation.

KMCH Sempora holds free multi-speciality medical camp at SSM College of Engineering Parihaspora

Srinagar, Sep 15:Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, on Tuesday organised a free multi-speciality medical camp at SSM College of Engineering, Parihaspora, Pattan, which was attended by students and residents of adjoining areas. The camp was attended by students, patients and residents from Parihaspora, Pattan, Singpora, Narbal and adjoining villages, who availed themselves of free consultations and medical services from teams of senior doctors. Patients were also provided free medicines. The camp was organised as part of KMCHs community outreach programme under the overall supervision and guidance of InshaQazi, Executive Director, KMCHSempora. OPD services were offered across multiple specialties, including Psychiatry, ENT, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, General Surgery, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, General Medicine and Orthopaedics. The camp also placed special emphasis on mental health awareness among students and the importance of timely professional support for those experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns. Student mental health remains an important area of concern, and such outreach programmes provide an opportunity to identify mental health issues at an early stage and encourage students to seek professional help without hesitation, said InshaQazi, Executive Director, KMCH Sempora. Healthcare should not remain confined to hospital premises. Through such initiatives, we aim to take specialised medical services closer to communities and ensure that people have access to quality healthcare and timely medical advice, she added. Qazi said that community outreach was an important part of KMCHs efforts to promote preventive healthcare and create greater awareness about health-related issues. We endeavour to build stronger connections with communities through regular health camps, awareness programmes and accessible medical services. We will continue to expand these initiatives to reach people in different areas of Kashmir, she said. The super specialists interacted with students and local residents and sensitised them about common mental health conditions, stress management, depression, anxiety disorders and the importance of seeking professional help when required. Residents and civil society members appreciated the initiative and urged the institution to continue organising such camps in different localities for the benefit of the public. KMCH reiterated its commitment to promoting mental well-being and ensuring that quality healthcare services reach people at their doorsteps. The hospital said more such outreach camps and awareness programmes would be organised in the future to improve access to specialised healthcare and strengthen community health services across Kashmir.

DC Kupwara reviews road safety, calls for strict enforcement

Kupwara, Sep 15:Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Shrikant Suse on Tuesday chaired a meeting of the District Road Safety Committee to review road safety measures and traffic management arrangements across the district. The DC directed enforcement agencies to intensify inspections and take strict action against underage driving, overloading, overspeeding and other traffic violations. Traffic Police were asked to conduct surprise checks at vulnerable locations, busy markets and major junctions. He also directed concerned agencies to improve traffic regulation during peak hours and undertake regular anti-encroachment drives to keep road corridors and public spaces clear. The DC called for road safety awareness programmes in schools and colleges, with the ARTO, Traffic Police and Education Department asked to jointly sensitise students, youth and commercial drivers about traffic discipline and safe driving. The meeting also reviewed school bus safety audits, driving school inspections, road safety audits, accident-prone locations and black spots. PWD, PMGSY and BEACON were directed to address identified safety concerns, improve sharp curves, maintain roads and install appropriate signage, particularly at blind curves. The DC stressed coordinated action involving enforcement, engineering, education and emergency response to prevent accidents and ensure safer roads across Kupwara district. SSP Kupwara, SSP Handwara, SE R&B, ACR, ACD, CMO, OC BEACON, DIO, ARTO, Executive Engineers of PWD and other concerned officials attended the meeting.

SKUAST Kashmir veterinary interns refuse to relent over stipend hike

Srinagar, Sep 15:The ongoing protest by veterinary interns at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) entered its ninth consecutive day on Tuesday, with students maintaining a complete boycott of clinical and field duties as they press for a substantial revision of their monthly stipend. The protesting interns, assembled at the SKUAST-K campus, chanted slogans demanding pay parity. They highlighted that their current stipend falls drastically below the basic cost of living and fails to reflect the intense physical labour and hazardous conditions associated with veterinary field services. Interns are demanding an upward revision of their monthly allowance. Yet, nine days in, no official notification or concrete commitment has been issued. We cannot feed our families on promises alone, and we will not return to work until an official order is released. The deadlock continues despite recent government outreach. Protesters noted that they met the Minister for Agriculture Production, Animal/Sheep Husbandry, and Fisheries, Javid Ahmad Dar, at the Secretariat, who assured a delegation of student representatives that the administration would find a solution through a set process. President JKVSA Saqlain Rashid said the delegation, which included two professors, met the Agriculture Minister around 11:30 am on Monday and discussed the pending proposal concerning the stipend hike. Rashid said the minister informed the delegation that the proposal for 2024 had been sent directly to the Finance Department, whereas the prescribed procedure requires it to be routed through the Agriculture Production Department (APD). According to Rashid, the minister advised the university authorities to prepare a fresh proposal and ensure that it is first routed through the APD before being forwarded to the Finance Department. He also assured us that if the file reaches him within 30 days, he will make efforts to get it cleared within 20 days, Rashid said, adding that the minister addressed the concerns raised by the delegation and gave them adequate time to explain their demands. Rashid said the minister also spoke to the Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, during the meeting and asked him to initiate a fresh proposal through the proper channel. Following the meeting with the minister, the delegation also met the Vice Chancellor, who, according to Rashid, assured them that the fresh proposal would be prepared soon. The Vice Chancellor told us that the fresh proposal should be completed by tomorrow, Rashid said. The protracted strike has begun affecting routine operations across the universitys ambulatory clinics, regional veterinary hospital facilities, and rural extension centres. While permanent faculty and resident doctors are attempting to manage the patient load, the absence of internswho form the backbone of daily triage, surgery assistance, and field treatmenthas slowed diagnostic and clinical services.

No discussion in BJP to confer Bharat Ratna on PM Modi: Union Minister Nadda

Union Minister J P Nadda on Tuesday said there has been no discussion in the BJP on conferring the Bharat Ratna on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During a press conference, Nadda said the party takes decisions on such matters at the appropriate time. As far as the highest civilian honour (Bharat Ratna) is concerned, the party takes decisions on such matters at the appropriate time. There has been no discussion on this matter so far but your suggestion is good. He was responding to a question on whether there would be a proposal at the end of the nationwide month-long Seva Sankalp Abhiyan to confer the highest civilian award of the country. To a question on the Oppositions allegations that PM Modi functions like a dictator, the Union Minister rejected it saying, He is the most democratic leader the world has seen.

Bihar to conduct DNA tests on relatives to identify victims of Nepal flash flood

The Bihar government will conduct DNA tests on relatives to identify people from the state among those who died in the recent Nepal floods, officials said on Tuesday. 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, killing around 1,400 people, while more than 5,000 remain missing. Several bodies, found severely decomposed, remain unidentified. The Ministry of External Affairs on September 3 said that 275 Indians remained missing. On Tuesday, the states home department said relatives of those missing from Bihar can provide DNA samples through their local police or civic administration to identify the bodies. In a statement, it said, Police and administrative officials have been directed to extend all possible assistance to the affected families and provide them information on the procedure for submitting samples. The samples will be tested at the Forensic Science Laboratory in Patna, it said.

Kishau agreement signed; 10th water dispute resolved by Modi govt: Amit Shah

The agreement for the long-pending Kishau Multipurpose Project was signed on Tuesday, marking the resolution of the 10th water dispute since Narendra Modi became prime minister, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, describing the pact as a historic agreement. The chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana Yogi Adityanath, Pushkar Singh Dhami, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Bhajanlal Sharma, Rekha Gupta and Nayab Singh Saini signed the agreement in the presence of Shah and Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil, an official statement said. Shah said the agreement would benefit all six states in one way or another and congratulated their chief ministers and Patil for playing an important role in bringing the project to this stage. He said the Government of India and the chief ministers of the six Yamuna basin states were committed to completing the project at the earliest. The Kishau project envisages the construction of a 232.6-metre-high concrete gravity dam on the Tons River, which flows along the Uttarakhand-Himachal Pradesh border, with a water storage capacity of 1,562 million cubic metres. The project will irrigate 97,000 hectares of land and generate 1,476 million units of clean hydropower, Shah said, adding that Delhi would be the biggest beneficiary. The pact comes after the six states agreed in June to sign an MoU on the 422-MW project, paving the way for its consideration by the Union Cabinet. The project was earlier estimated to cost around Rs 15,000 crore and had been pending for more than eight years. Under the Kishau Multipurpose Project, the Centre will bear approximately 90 per cent of the financial burden, while the remaining 10 per cent will be borne by the participating states in accordance with the 1994 agreement, Shah said. He said an agreement reached on May 12, 1994, provided that separate agreements would be entered into for each storage project coming up in the basin. Shah said that after disputes concerning the Lakhwar and Renukaji projects were resolved, work on Kishau moved forward and a formal agreement on the project was reached on June 16 this year. He said the Ministry of Jal Shakti took the matter forward after securing the consent of all the states and considering the technical and economic aspects while safeguarding their interests. Shah said that since Modi became prime minister, initiatives had been undertaken to resolve serious disputes that had continued for decades and this project will be the tenth water dispute that is now set to be resolved. He cited agreements relating to the Lakhwar Multipurpose Project, Shahpur Kandi Dam Project, Renukaji Multipurpose Dam Project, Ken-Betwa Link Project and other water-related disputes. He said the period from 2018 to 2026 under Modis leadership would be remembered as one in which almost all water disputes, from Kashmir to Uttar Pradesh, were resolved. On the Yamuna, Shah said that when its waters were allocated, the environmental flow of the river was not calculated and all available water was distributed among the states, leaving no water for the river itself. He said 25 per cent of the water would become available through the Kishau agreement, which would benefit both Delhi and the Yamuna and contribute to environmental conservation. Shah said continuous work was underway to clean the Yamuna and expressed confidence that the goal of a clean Yamuna would be achieved by 2029. He said cleaning the Yamuna was essential for fulfilling the dream of a clean Ganga as the Yamuna merges with the Ganga at Prayagraj.

Space crunch hampers expansion of popular Pulwama government school

Pulwama, Sep 15:Surrounded by private educational institutes, a government school in New Colony area of south Kashmirs Pulwama district stands out. PM Shri Government Middle School Pulwama has attracted about 300 students, drawing children from different parts of the town despite competition from several private schools in the neighbourhood. Parents say the quality of teaching is one of the main reasons they prefer the government school over private alternatives. The quality of education has encouraged us to send our children to the school, said Nazir Ahmad, a parent. But the schools growing popularity has also exposed a basic constraint-lack of space. With more students seeking admission, the limited space available to the school is affecting its ability to expand classrooms and provide additional facilities needed to accommodate the growing strength. Teachers and parents say the school has the potential to attract even more students if its infrastructure is expanded. The demand, they say, reflects a change in the perception of government schools, where parents are increasingly willing to enrol their children when teaching standards and academic performance are strong. For the school, however, accommodating more students without adequate space remains a challenge. While private schools have expanded across the town, a government institution drawing students from different localities is struggling to create enough space for its own growth. We have now had to create partitions in the classrooms to accommodate the growing number of students, said a teacher. Parents say better infrastructure would allow the school to serve more children in the area. The school has good teachers and the children are receiving quality education. If more space and facilities are provided, it can accommodate more students, said a parent. An official said that an additional block had been sanctioned to the institute and it would resolve the space issues The parents, however, complained that the authorities were taking too long to take up the construction work. They urged the authorities to start the work without any further delay.

Invasive foreign weed spotted in Srinagar: SKUAST-K advises early caution

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) is advising farmers and agricultural stakeholders to remain vigilant against the re-emergence of the highly invasive foreign weed Parthenium hysterophorus L., which was recently spotted by university scientists in an agricultural field in Srinagar. The advisory calls on farmers and agricultural stakeholders across the Valley to prioritise early detection and caution of the species to prevent it from establishing a firm foothold in Kashmirs agro-ecosystems. Belonging to the Asteraceae family, Parthenium hysterophorus is an annual plant recognised globally as one of the most aggressive invasive weeds. Its notoriety stems from rapid growth rates, prolific seed production, fierce competitiveness, and potent allelopathic effects releasing biochemical compounds that suppress and inhibit the growth of surrounding crops and native flora. Beyond stunting agricultural productivity, it poses severe risks to local biodiversity and broader ecosystem health. Scientists from SKUAST-K Prof. Purshotam Singh (Agronomist), Prof. Amal Sexana (Agronomist), and Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth (Director Extension, SKUAST-K & Agronomist) noted that the Srinagar detection serves as an early-warning signal rather than a reason for panic, underscoring the necessity for sustained field-level surveillance, particularly across agricultural landscapes and disturbed habitats. The sighting carries added significance in light of recent research confirming that P. hysterophorus can successfully complete its entire life cycle within Kashmirs temperate climate. Studies show the weeds seeds can overwinter in the soil, germinate between late March and early May, and mature into flowering plants that set viable seeds well before the onset of severe autumn frosts. University experts warned that ongoing seasonal warming could create even more hospitable conditions for the weeds proliferation. The species spreads easily through contaminated soil, agricultural machinery, moving water, vehicular transit, and tainted seed or feed supplies. While historical records confirm prior documentation of Parthenium in Jammu & Kashmir, the recent findings provide fresh, concrete evidence of its adaptation and reproductive success under local temperate conditions. To counter the threat, SKUAST-K scientists advocated for a comprehensive, integrated weed-management strategy. They emphasised that coordinated surveillance, rapid identification, mechanical and targeted eradication, and sustained long-term monitoring will be essential to shield Kashmirs farmlands from wide-scale invasion.

Shopians streams squeezed by waste, encroachments, unplanned development

Shopian, Sep 15: DobiKoul, GamlachiKoul and the gurgling Sangloo stream, which flow through the heart of south Kashmirs Shopian town, are slowly losing their character as garbage, encroachments and unplanned development eat into their channels. The streams, once a prominent part of the townscape, have been reduced in several stretches to narrow watercourses resembling drains, residents said, raising concerns over their ecological health as well as their utility during emergencies. DobiKoul and GamlachiKoul are important sources of irrigation for orchards around the town. Residents also say the streams have traditionally provided an additional source of water during emergencies such as fires, when access to nearby water can be critical. Covering the stream with slabs will make it difficult to clean and maintain, said Nazir Ahmad, a resident. A stretch of GamlachiKoul has been covered with concrete slabs and converted into space for vendors, residents said. The move has further restricted access to the stream and, they fear, could make desilting and maintenance more difficult. DobiKoul, which meanders through the town, faces a different set of problems. Household waste has accumulated along its banks and encroachments have narrowed the water channel at several points. Residents say plastic bottles, polythene and other household waste are routinely dumped into or near the streams, obstructing the flow and degrading the waterways. These streams are already narrow at several places, and the waste makes the situation worse, said Mohammad Yaqoob, a social activist from the town. He said residents had repeatedly brought the condition of the waterways to the notice of the authorities, but little had changed on the ground. We have raised the issue several times with the authorities, but there has been no effective response, Yaqoob said. The Sangloo stream is also facing pressure from infrastructure works. The Jal Shakti Department has been laying water pipes through parts of the stream, residents said, further constricting its already limited flow. Plastic bottles, polythene and other household waste get trapped around these pipes, choking the flow of water, Yaqoob said. An official in the Irrigation Department said the issue of laying water pipes in the Sangloo stream had been taken up with the concerned authorities. The official, however, did not say whether the department had received any response or whether any remedial action had been initiated. The condition of the streams highlights a broader problem facing Shopian, where expanding construction and commercial activity are increasingly encroaching on traditional water channels. Residents say the deterioration is not merely an environmental concern. The shrinking waterways could affect irrigation, particularly for orchards that depend on local water sources, while reducing the amount of accessible water available during emergencies. For decades, the channels have formed part of the towns natural drainage and irrigation network. Their gradual narrowing, residents said, has changed the way water moves through the town and left stretches vulnerable to blockage by solid waste. The streams also carry a historical and social value for residents, who recall a time when the waterways were cleaner and more visible as they passed through the town. Now, in several stretches, concrete slabs, structures, pipes and accumulated waste obscure the channels. Residents and activists say the authorities need to map the existing watercourses, remove encroachments, ensure regular cleaning and prevent further construction or infrastructure works from narrowing the streams. Without such intervention, they fear, the remaining stretches of DobiKoul, GamlachiKoul and Sangloo could continue to shrink until little remains of the waterways that once helped sustain Shopians orchards and town life.

Dakshina Chitra offers assistance for replicating heritage museum model in J&K

Chennai, Sep 15: Director of Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum Sharath Nambiar has assured all possible assistance and guidance if the museums unique heritage conservation model is replicated in J&K. Interacting with a group of Kashmir-based journalists visiting Chennai as part of a PIB Srinagar tour, Nambiar said every region, including J&K, should have such a facility as it can help preserve traditional heritage and culture while also generating employment opportunities and promoting tourism. He said the Dakshina Chitra model goes beyond preservation of traditional structures and lifestyles, as it also provides livelihood opportunities to local communities and creates an additional attraction for tourists. Nambiar said tourist groups from Kashmir had visited Dakshina Chitra in the past, while some cultural groups from the region had also participated in cultural events organised at the heritage museum. However, he said no formal requisition had so far been received from J&K authorities for replicating the Dakshina Chitra model in the Union Territory. We will be pleased to assist in replicating this model in J&K if the local authorities and government intend to do so, Nambiar said. The Madras Craft Foundation, a self-reliant organisation dedicated to preserving the traditional lifestyle, culture and architectural heritage of South India, has created a unique living heritage space, Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum, near Chennai. Established in 1996 on a relatively small piece of land, the museum has now completed 30 years of preserving and showcasing the traditional way of life of southern India. It is regarded as one of the first and unique initiatives of its kind in the country, bringing together the traditional architecture and lifestyles of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana at one location. The museum has adopted an innovative approach to heritage conservation under which traditional houses from different parts of South India are carefully documented, dismantled and reconstructed at Dakshina Chitra. When a family volunteers to hand over its traditional house for preservation, every aspect of the structure is meticulously documented before it is safely dismantled. Materials including flooring, bricks, wood, steel and other architectural elements are transported to the museum and reused to reconstruct the house in its original form. Dozens of traditional houses have been reconstructed at the museum, with several of them dating back centuries. These structures offer visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle, architecture and social practices of earlier generations, including the use of clay pottery, traditional household articles and religious practices. Curator of Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum Lakuma Chebrolu, while interacting with a group of Kashmir-based journalists visiting the museum as part of a PIB Srinagar tour, said the initiative was not limited to preservation of heritage but was also creating livelihood opportunities for local communities, particularly women. She said a significant portion of the museums workforce comprises women, who are engaged in various activities associated with the preservation and functioning of the heritage centre. Dakshina Chitra has thus emerged as a distinctive model of heritage conservation, combining traditional architecture, cultural preservation, community participation and livelihood generation under one roof.

Cascading Strikes Signal Deeper Uease

Srinagar, Sep 15:A wave of protests by trained healthcare workers and trainees has unfolded in quick succession in J&K. The spree is exposing a sense of grievance among those who have invested years in rigorous professional education yet believe they are receiving a raw deal professionally. The chronic disease of unemployment and underemployment afflicting the job sector for decades here is now spilling over across the spectrum. MBBS and BDS interns in J&K who receive Rs 12,300 a month get one of the lowest stipends in the country. It has remained unchanged for nearly seven years, pushing the interns to stage a strike from late August into early September 2026. They are demanding a rise to Rs 30,000 and citing long shifts, night duties, and rural postings. They also cite far higher payments elsewhere. They suspended the agitation after a government assurance of a decision within 30 days. Almost immediately, veterinary interns at SKUAST campuses intensified their own action over stipends. Cited as low as Rs 6,000, they are seeking parity with institutions paying substantially more. Simultaneously, National Health Mission contractual employees launched a 72-hour strike. They protest stagnant honorariums, job insecurity, and delayed benefits. Now medical associations are pressing for better pay for postgraduate residents and senior residents in GMCs of J&K. They seek parity of remuneration with SKIMS and AIIMS Jammu. These successive agitations highlight frustration among doctors, interns, and paramedical staff. They shoulder critical frontline responsibilities in a strained and stretched public health system. They argue their qualifications and workload are undervalued relative to inflation. The living costs and national benchmarks give credence to the demands. The recommendations of various committees and files, these aggrieved professionals and trainees state, are often lingering across departments. The pattern suggests a cascading discontent in the sector. However, this sits against a far larger backdrop of limited opportunities for the educated population in J&K,a situation that has not changed for decades. Official figures have put the number of registered educated unemployed youth in J&K at over 3.6 lakh. Kashmir division accounts for a larger share in this cohort. The overall unemployment rate has hovered around 6.7 per cent. It is double the national average in recent PLFS data. Youth and graduate unemployment remain much higher. The Union Territory produces more than 25,000 graduates annually. These graduates, strikingly form only about 13 per cent of the workforce. This points to underemployment and heavy dependence on government jobs. The private sector has failed to deliver jobs, and more seriously, better-paying jobs. Thousands with degrees and professional qualifications find few matching avenues in the employment sector, and compete for lower-level posts. Despite vacant government positions numbering in the tens of thousands, finding a job in J&K is now akin to striking gold. Hyped schemes such as Mission YUVA aim to promote entrepreneurship and self-employment, however, absorption of the educated workforce has been a sore topic for decades. The qualified young professionals already in the system feel under-compensated and insecure, the contrast is stark. A larger number of equally or similarly educated peers outside it struggle to find a foothold. Limited industrial diversification beyond tourism and horticulture and fiscal constraints on public hiring explain both the pay disputes and the broader joblessness in J&K. Meaningful opportunities for the thousands of educated youth remain elusive, breeding despondency.

IIT Madras ready to extend blockchain technology, career counselling support to J&K

Chennai, Sep 15: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has expressed its willingness to assist the Jammu and Kashmir government in using blockchain technology to establish the authenticity of local products and help curb adulteration and counterfeiting. Director IIT Madras Prof V Kamakoti said the institute has recently signed an MoU with the Uttar Pradesh Government for an initiative based on blockchain technology, under which a QR code can be generated for products to establish their authenticity and help prevent adulteration and counterfeiting. Interacting with journalists from Kashmir during a PIB tour of Chennai, Prof Kamakoti said IIT Madras is ready to extend the technology to Jammu and Kashmir if the UT Government approaches the institute with a formal request. Replying to a question from a Greater Kashmir correspondent on the challenge of adulteration and counterfeiting of Kashmiri products such as carpets and saffron, he said the technology was still at an early stage but IIT Madras was willing to assist J&K in developing and implementing it. Prof Kamakoti also highlighted the institutes innovative School Connect Programme, through which career counselling and guidance are provided to school and college students, familiarising them with national and international educational and career opportunities. He said IIT Madras could extend the School Connect initiative to Jammu and Kashmir as well, provided the UT Government or School Education Department approaches the institute. The IIT Madras Director also spoke about Vidyashakti, another initiative under which trained teachers provide academic guidance and support to students. He said the programme could also be introduced in Jammu and Kashmir subject to a formal request from the UT government and signing of an MoU. Rashmi Udhay Kumar from Communication Office of IIT Madras said that any education institution of Jammu and Kashmir can approach the institute through mail address school-connect@study.iitm.ac.in with a request for School Connect programme. SETTING NEW BENCHMARKS IN R&D-BASED EDUCATION IIT Madras is setting new benchmarks in research and development-based education by combining its extensive on-campus academic programmes with innovative outreach initiatives aimed at making quality higher education accessible to students across the country. Prof Andrew Thangaraj of the Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Madras, said the institute is not only offering hundreds of courses on campus but has also developed outreach programmes for students who could not secure admission through the conventional JEE route. Through funnel-type programmes, students from across the country can enrol in university-level courses and pursue quality education, Thangaraj said while interacting with a group of journalists from Kashmir and Varanasi currently visiting Chennai as part of a PIB tour. He said the National Programme for Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) is one of the major outreach initiatives of IIT Madras. The programme, launched in 2014, offers certified online courses, with examinations conducted offline. Under the SWAYAM platform, more than 10,186 courses have been offered, recording over 4.16 crore enrolments without fees, while 57.2 lakh certificates have been issued so far. The institutes other outreach initiatives include BS programmes in Data Science and Applications, Management and Data Science, Electronic Systems, and Aeronautics and Space Technology, providing learners with opportunities to pursue specialised programmes through flexible modes of education. Meanwhile, the IIT Madras campus also reflects its emphasis on environmental sustainability. The green campus has extensive forest cover, while bicycles are widely used by students and staff for internal movement, helping reduce vehicular pollution and maintain a cleaner environment. Interacting with journalists, another official of the institution said that IIT Madras is contributing in every sector of the country including space sciences, maritime and shipping industry, defence sector with engineering and technology remaining the core of all practices.

CM inaugurates IEI guest house IEI GHAR

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the guest house of The Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI), IEI GHAR, at Church Lane, Sonwar, here on the occasion of the 59th Engineers Day. Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed (Pardesi), Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation Faz Lul Haseeb, Chairman, IEI J&K State Centre, Er. Ferdous Ahad Bhat, Honorary Secretary, IEI J&K State Centre, Irfan Ahmad Reshi, members of the Executive Committee of IEI J&K State Centre and senior engineers were present on the occasion. The Chief Minister cut the ceremonial ribbon to formally inaugurate the facility and also took a tour of the guest house. Appreciating the facility, the Chief Minister said that IEI GHAR would provide a useful facility for members of the engineering community visiting Jammu and Kashmir from outside the region. He said the initiative would further facilitate professional interaction and engagement among engineers visiting J&K.

Govt sets 0.4% fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 amid political criticism

Ending nearly six years of fully free UPI payments, the government on Tuesday introduced a 0.4 per cent fee on transfers worth more than Rs 2,000 made to merchants through the platform from October 15 while explicitly ring-fencing everyday person-to-person transactions as well as small payments from any charge. Customers will not be required to pay any charge when making such payments through UPI, the finance ministry said in a statement, adding, MDR is a charge within the merchant payment ecosystem. It is not a charge on customers making UPI payments. Also, individuals will continue to have unlimited free usage, with no monthly quotas, volume restrictions or tiered caps on free UPI transactions, it said. The carefully calibrated move signalled the end of an era for the worlds largest real-time payments system even as the government tried to avoid alarming the hundreds of millions of daily users. The move drew sharp criticism from the opposition parties. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged that the levy was once again surrender by a compromised Prime Minister Narendra Modi to American pressure. The BJP hit back, accusing the Congress of spreading fake news, saying the government had made it absolutely clear that MDR charges would not be levied on consumers. From October 15, a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) will be levied on person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions above Rs 2,000 through UPI (Unified Payments Interface), capped at Rs 300 for payments of Rs 75,000 and above. Essential and thin-margin sectors -- railways, telecom, insurance, fuel and agricultural inputs -- will pay a flat MDR of Rs 5 per transaction above Rs 2,000, intended to keep costs predictable for critical services; these categories account for nearly 17 per cent of P2M transaction volume but roughly 46 per cent of P2M transaction value. The same flat-fee treatment extends to government utility bill collection (electricity, water, piped gas) and educational fee payments such as school tuition and university fees above Rs 2,000, both similarly exempted below that threshold. Payments into mutual funds, securities and through stockbrokers and dealers will attract a lighter 0.02 per cent MDR, capped at Rs 300 -- a rate designed to keep the cost of investing low and encourage retail participation in formal financial markets. Person-to-person (P2P) transfers -- which make up 37 per cent of UPIs transaction volume and 70 per cent of its transaction value -- will continue to attract zero charges, irrespective of size. Small-value transactions up to Rs 2,000, which the government said account for more than 95 per cent of total P2M volume, remain untouched. The charges so collected will be distributed among the firms facilitating the transactions and are being introduced to bolster investment into infrastructure resilience, innovation, cybersecurity and customer service, the National Payments Corporation of India said. Charges will apply only to person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, the finance ministry said in a statement. A nominal merchant discount rate of 0.4 per cent will be levied on P2M transactions above Rs 2,000. This commission will be shared amongst the payment ecosystem partners including banks and app providers. The government has also moved to prevent the new charges from being quietly passed on to consumers: UPI app providers are barred from levying platform fees or hidden charges, and banks have been directed to ensure merchants do not pass MDR costs on to customers. There will be no monthly quotas or volume limits for free UPI transactions for individuals. The framework layers different rates across categories of transactions rather than applying a blanket charge. On a Rs 3,000 purchase, the 0.4 per cent rate works out to a Rs 12 fee paid by the merchant to its acquiring bank; on a Rs 50,000 purchase, it comes to Rs 200. On a Rs 1,00,000 purchase, the percentage calculation would otherwise total Rs 400, but the fixed Rs 300 ceiling applies instead -- a structure designed to keep high-value transaction costs predictable. The MDR applies only to direct user-account-to-merchant-account UPI payments; credit-linked transactions such as RuPay Credit Cards on UPI or pre-sanctioned credit lines follow separate card rules, and automated recurring payments -- UPI Mandates or AutoPay used for utility bills, OTT subscriptions and recurring investments - carry no MDR at all. Small merchants remain the most protected category. Vendors receiving up to Rs 1 lakh a month via UPI QR codes -- classified under a Person-to-Person-Merchant (P2PM) framework -- will continue to pay zero MDR on all transactions, with no requirement to register for GST or upgrade existing QR infrastructure. Acquiring banks will track inward payments via a velocity check, and merchants exceeding Rs 1 lakh a month for three consecutive months move into the standard P2M category. Zero MDR under this framework also extends to rural and semi-urban QR payments, an area the government has flagged as a core policy priority. Overall, government data analysis suggests only about 4 per cent of merchant transactions will actually be touched by the new MDR, since most fall below the Rs 2,000 threshold or qualify for the P2PM exemption. Officials argue merchants typically absorb such processing costs as a standard operational overhead, offset by higher transaction volumes. Existing daily transaction limits of Rs 1-5 lakh, the government stressed, remain purely risk-management tools rather than a backdoor charge structure. UPI app providers are explicitly prohibited from levying platform fees or hidden charges, the statement said. Banks have been advised to ensure that merchants do not pass MDR charges to customers for UPI payments. There will be no monthly quotas, volume limits, or tiered caps on free UPI transactions for individuals. Daily transaction limits enforced by banks and NPCI (Rs 1-5 lakh depending on category) are purely risk-management measures, not commercial charge tiers, it said.

Moul Mouj Health Corner

Q: I am 75 years old. I sometimes forget names but remember them later. Should I be worried about dementia? A: Occasional forgetfulness can occur with normal ageing. Dementia is more concerning when memory problems interfere with everyday lifesuch as managing money, medicines, cooking, familiar routes, or conversations. Persistent or worsening changes deserve assessment. Q: My mother is 82. She keeps asking me the same question every few minutes. Should I keep correcting her? A: Repeated questions can occur in dementia. Reassure her rather than repeatedly saying, I already told you. Answer calmly, use reminders or written notes, and look for triggers such as anxiety, pain, hunger, or fatigue. Q: My father is 79 and has started getting lost on roads he has known for years. He says he is fine. What should we do? A: Getting lost in familiar surroundings is a warning sign that should not be dismissed as normal ageing. Arrange a medical assessment. Until then, consider practical safety measures and avoid allowing him to travel alone if there is a significant risk of getting lost. Q: My mother is 84 and has dementia. She hardly speaks to anyone now. Should we leave her alone because she prefers it? A: Social withdrawal may be part of dementia, but loneliness can worsen wellbeing and may contribute to cognitive decline. Gentle conversation, familiar music, family visits, simple activities and short outingsadapted to her abilitycan help. Presence is often more important than conversation. Q: I am 77 and worried about dementia because my memory is not what it used to be. Can dementia be prevented? A: Risk cannot be eliminated, but it can be reduced. Control blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol; remain physically active; avoid smoking; maintain hearing and vision; sleep well; stay socially connected and mentally engaged. Most importantly, seek medical evaluation if memory or thinking is progressively changing. Q: I am 72 years old and generally healthy. Do I really need a flu vaccine? I rarely get the flu. A: Older adults are at greater risk of serious complications from influenza, even when otherwise healthy. Annual influenza vaccination can reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and complications. Prevention is better than waiting for the flu to strike. Q: My mother is 80 and has diabetes and high blood pressure. Can she take the flu vaccine safely? A: In most cases, yes. In fact, conditions such as diabetes and heart or lung disease make influenza vaccination particularly important. Discuss her medical history and previous vaccine reactions with her doctor before vaccination. Q: I am 76. I took the flu vaccine last year. Why do I need it again this year? A: Influenza viruses change over time, and protection from vaccination decreases. The vaccine is updated periodically to match circulating strains. That is why influenza vaccination is generally recommended every year. Q: My father is 83 and says, The flu vaccine gives me flu. Is that true? A: No. Injectable influenza vaccines do not contain live influenza virus capable of causing flu. Mild soreness, fatigue or low-grade fever can occur after vaccination as the immune system responds. These are very different from influenza infection. Q: I am 78 and already have a cough and cold. Should I still get the flu vaccine this September? A: A mild cold usually does not prevent vaccination, but vaccination should be discussed with your doctor if you are moderately or severely ill. Also remember: the flu vaccine prevents influenza; it does not prevent every cough and cold. NOTE: These responses are for general awareness and do not replace professional medical advice. Older adults often have multiple illnesses and medicines, so individual medical advice should be taken from a qualified healthcare professional. Ask your questions at: WhatsApp: 6005463346, Email: ask@moulmoujfoundation.org

Law must be respected, not be treated as tool to target innocent: Mehraj Malik

Doda East MLA Mehraj Malik on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the functioning of the administration and Police, saying that while ordinary citizens respected the law, the same law should not be selectively used to target or harass innocent people. Malik made the remarks after appearing before the court in connection with proceedings in FIR number 229 of 2020 registered at Police Station Doda against him, following his non-appearance on an earlier date. He said he could not attend the previous hearing due to certain reasons but appeared before the court as required and would continue to respect the judicial process. Law is respected by people like us, by the ordinary and poor people who work hard for their livelihood, Malik said, while taking a dig at what he described as a system where powerful people often enjoyed greater influence. He said that he had full faith in the judiciary and would abide by the directions of the court, but questioned the circumstances in which cases had allegedly been registered against him. If an innocent person is made to stand in court through a false case, questions have to be asked, Malik said, urging the police and administration to examine the facts and legal basis of cases impartially. The MLA questioned what he described as selective enforcement of law, asking whether the same standards were being applied to influential political leaders and ordinary citizens. He said that if violations committed during elections, public programmes or other events warranted police action, the law should be applied equally to everyone. Malik also launched a verbal onslaught against the bureaucracy, alleging that influential persons sometimes believed that the law could be managed through their power and position, while common people were left to face its consequences. He asserted that no individual should be above the law, regardless of political influence, administrative position or financial strength. The law must be the same for everyone, he maintained. Questioning the manner in which the FIR against him was registered and the subsequent proceedings initiated, Malik said that the role of the Police and the circumstances surrounding the case should also be subjected to fair scrutiny. The MLA further turned the spotlight on alleged illegal mining and other unlawful activities, saying that he would not remain silent on issues affecting the public. He alleged that mafia activities were continuing in the area and said he had already brought the matter to the notice of the Deputy Commissioner. Malik warned that if illegal activities continued despite complaints, the responsibility would ultimately lie with the concerned administrative and police authorities. He said he would continue to raise his voice against such activities, irrespective of the pressure or consequences. He also appealed to officials to verify facts before initiating criminal proceedings against citizens, arguing that the machinery of law should be used to protect people and ensure justice rather than to intimidate those who raise questions. Maintaining that his appearance before the court demonstrated his respect for the law, Malik said he would continue to fight his case through legal and democratic means. At the same time, he made it clear that respect for the law could not mean silence against alleged misuse of authority, asserting that accountability must apply equally to the police, bureaucracy, political leaders and ordinary citizens. Malik reiterated that he would continue to raise public issues, including alleged illegal mining and other activities and said his political fight was against what he described as an entrenched system of influence and selective accountability.

Terror module busted in Rajouri, 3 OGWs arrested

In a major breakthrough against the terror ecosystem operating in the Pir Panjal region, Police in Rajouri have busted an Over Ground Worker (OGW) network allegedly linked with terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) resulting in the arrest of three accused persons. The arrested individuals have been identified as Zakir Hussain, son of Ghulam Hussain, resident of Kotcharwal Teryath Rajouri; Mohd Azam, son of Ali Bahadur, resident of Kotcharwal Teryath Rajouri and Mohd Mushtaq, son of Mohd Iqbal, resident of Udhan Rajouri. The arrests were made during the investigation of a terror module operating in the Pir Panjal region. Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused were allegedly involved in providing logistical support, safe transit and other ground-level assistance to terrorists. Investigation further revealed that the accused allegedly acted as guides and facilitated the movement of terrorist groups towards the Kashmir valley. They are also suspected to have provided ground support to terrorists linked with multiple high-profile attacks, including an attack targeting civilians. During the course of investigation IED was recovered on the disclosure of one of the accused. Preliminary findings indicated that the device had allegedly been handed over to the accused by members of a terrorist group for safe custody and its possible use in a targeted attack. Further investigation is in progress to establish the complete network, identify additional associates and ascertain the full extent of the accused persons involvement, Police said.

Welcome to mosquito

It is three oclock in the afternoon. A dry, humid day. The family is asleep, including the toddlers. After retirement, I seem to have acquired a new designationSecurity Guard of the House! Being physically challenged, I noticed a few rashes on my arm. I looked at them and smiled. It appeared the mosquitoes had launched their own human vaccination programme! And suddenly, I decided to hear the mosquitos side of the story. Dear Humans, Why do you hate us so much? We are tiny creatures. We neither break into your house nor stab you in the back. We simply come near your ears, make a little musical announcement and say: Excuse me! I have crossed your line of defence. And what do you do? You have installed mesh on windows, used repellents, sprays, creams, coils and electric gadgets. You have turned your homes into high-security mosquito detention centres! But tell mewhy blood? Some of us need a blood meal as part of our reproductive cycle. We take only a tiny amount. You have plenty of it! We dont ask for a blood donation certificate. Yet you chase us, spray us, slap us and crush us between your hands. And when we die, we sometimes leave behind a tiny streak of blood. Then perhaps we should ask: Oh Human! You took my lifeand yet you pray every day for a long life for yourself! What a contradiction! You destroy our breeding placesstagnant water, marshy corners and waterlogged spaces. We understand that you have your reasons. But surely you can appreciate that we, too, are simply trying to continue our little family business! And have you ever looked at us properly? We are miniature helicopters! No fuel tank. No runway. No traffic signals. No air-traffic controller. No parking problem. We can hover, land and take off almost anywhere. Frankly, we are a remarkable piece of engineering! And here is something you humans might learn from us. We dont ask your caste. We dont check your colour. We dont inquire about your religion, faith, wealth or status. We simply see an opportunityand take it! That is equality. You humans, however, have managed to divide yourselves over almost everything. And yet the one thing we share with you is the most important: Blood. So, whether you like it or not We are your blood cousins! And remember, we do something else that nobody else can. The moment one mosquito enters your room, the whole family becomes united. The sleeping person wakes up. The light goes on. Someone grabs a newspaper. Someone reaches for the spray. Husband, wife, childrenall suddenly working together! What other creature can achieve such instant family bonding? So, dear humans, perhaps dont love usbut at least understand us. We may be irritating, but we are also part of the extraordinary theatre of life. And now, dear readers, I leave you with a challenge: Can you discover any other virtues of the mosquito? Please do. After all, this is only a script written on the lighter side of life. Author is a Senior Citizen from Bagh-e-Mehtab, Srinagar

LG V K Saxena inaugurates 11th Ladakh Zanskar Festival

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena Tuesday inaugurated the 11th Ladakh Zanskar Festival 2026, a vibrant celebration of the rich culture, distinct identity and immense tourism potential of the breathtaking Zanskar region. The two-day Zanskar Festival, held amid vibrant cultural celebrations and enthusiastic participation from local communities, is the first edition of the festival since Zanskar attained district status in April this year. The Lieutenant Governor inspected stalls and Doksa exhibitions showcasing local culture, crafts and products, and virtually inaugurated various infrastructure assets completed in Zanskar district. He also released Shesrab the annual magazine of Government Degree College Zanskar and a special postal cover on Gonbo Rangjon in collaboration with India Post. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said district status was not merely an administrative change but a recognition of the long-standing aspirations and distinct identity of the people of Zanskar. Today, as we celebrate the first major cultural festival of Zanskar as a new district, it is a moment of pride for all of us, he said, congratulating the people of Zanskar on the occasion. Highlighting Zanskars tourism potential, the Lieutenant Governor said its monasteries, mountains, rivers, trekking routes, adventure activities, traditions and warm-hearted people make it a destination with tremendous potential. He noted that the Ladakh Zanskar Festival was included in the UT Administrations official tourism calendar, helping bring Zanskars culture and tourism onto the wider tourism map. He said more than 4.05 lakh tourists had visited Ladakh up to August 31, including over 3.71 lakh domestic and more than 33,000 foreign tourists. The growing tourist footfall, he said, translated into more business for hotels, homestays, taxis, restaurants, local shops and artisans, while also creating employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for youth. The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that tourism must grow in a sustainable, responsible and people-centric manner, with due respect for Zanskars environment, culture and traditions. Chairman and CEC, LAHDC Kargil, Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon; Member of Parliament from Ladakh, Mohd Haneefa Jan; and several other public representatives and officials from the district administration were present on the occasion.

Altaf Bukhari bats for impartial probe in allegations of negligence, malpractices in GMC Rajouri

J&K Apni Party (JKAP) president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday demanded an impartial and time-bound inquiry into the allegations of negligence, malpractices or misuse of government infrastructure in the Government Medical College (GMC) Associated Hospital, Rajouri. He was responding to concerns aired during a comprehensive review meeting of the partys district units of Jammu wherein he took detailed-feedback from district presidents on organisational activities, public outreach programmes and issues confronting people across the Union Territory. JKAP provincial president Manjit Singh was also present at the meeting, where the respective district presidents presented their report cards on party programmes and apprised the party leadership of the grievances being raised by people in their respective areas. Bukhari assured the district presidents of every possible support in taking up genuine public concerns with the government and administration. The meeting discussed several issues affecting the daily lives of people, including the hike in power tariff, unscheduled power cuts, inflated electricity bills, damaged roads and lanes, poor drainage, inadequate civic amenities and alleged lack of response to public grievances. The district presidents sought greater intervention on issues which, according to them, have remained unresolved despite repeated representations. One of the major concerns raised during the meeting related to the functioning of the Government Medical College Associated Hospital, Rajouri. JKAP district president Rajouri Syed Manzoor Shah brought to the notice of Bukhari a series of serious concerns and allegations being raised by people regarding the functioning of the institution, which caters to a vast population extending from Gool-Gulabgarh in Reasi to the border areas of Poonch, besides residents of Rajouri and adjoining areas. While apprising Bukhari of the situation, Manzoor Shah pointed to, what he described as shortage of doctors and paramedical staff, non-functional or delayed commissioning of medical equipment, prolonged waiting periods for surgeries and diagnostic procedures, inadequate patient care and alleged involvement of intermediaries in directing patients towards private facilities. He further brought to the notice of the party president allegations that certain medical personnel might have links with private establishments and that possible vested interests affecting government healthcare services should be examined through an impartial inquiry. He further brought to Bukharis notice concerns regarding the treatment of women arriving for childbirth, alleging that some patients were not being treated with the dignity, sensitivity and compassion required in such circumstances. He also referred to complaints regarding diagnostic testing, including an alleged instance of a major variation between a test conducted at the government institution and one subsequently conducted at a private facility and urged the authorities to verify such complaints and take appropriate action if any irregularity was established. Taking serious note of the concerns brought before him, Bukhari said that issues concerning public healthcare required immediate attention, particularly when they affected people from remote, hilly, border and economically weaker areas. Bukhari maintained that government medical institutions must provide timely, affordable and quality treatment, supported by adequate manpower, functional equipment and a patient-friendly system. He said people travelling long distances to government hospitals should not be left without timely medical care or compelled to depend on costly private facilities because of deficiencies in public institutions. He also supported the demand for an independent, impartial and time-bound inquiry into the concerns brought to his notice regarding the Rajouri medical institution. Bukhari said that allegations of negligence, malpractice, conflict of interest or misuse of government infrastructure, wherever found substantiated through a proper inquiry, should be dealt with appropriately. Emphasising the importance of a strong public healthcare system, Bukhari assured the meeting that he would take up the matter with the government. He said he would write to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Health Minister seeking their intervention for improving the functioning of government healthcare institutions and addressing the grievances of patients. Bukhari further assured the district leadership that the JKAP would raise public issues across Jammu and Kashmir in a coordinated manner. He asked party leaders to remain closely connected with the grassroots and systematically bring genuine public grievances to the party forum for appropriate follow-up. JKAP Provincial President Manjit Singh said the concerns brought from Rajouri appeared to reflect a wider problem in the public healthcare system. He brought to the notice of the meeting that people in Ramgarh, Vijaypur, Samba and Bari Brahmana were also facing difficulties due to shortages of doctors and paramedical staff and deficiencies in essential diagnostic facilities, including X-ray and ultrasound services. Similar concerns were also raised by the partys Bani unit. Singh called for strengthening manpower and infrastructure in government hospitals so that people, particularly those living in rural, hilly and border areas, could access essential medical services without unnecessary hardship. Bukhari reiterated that the party would continue to stand with the people and its cadre through all adversities, maintaining that the objective of the review exercise was not only to assess organisational functioning but also to ensure that the genuine concerns of the people were raised effectively before the government and administration. Prominent among those present were former MLA and senior vice president Faqir Nath; provincial vice president Arun Chibber; former MLA Prem Lal; SC wing president Bodh Raj; Kisan wing president Badri Nath; provincial secretary Ajaz Kazmi; provincial president women wing Pavneet Kour besides others.

Stray dog menace troubles residents of Bilal Colony Soura

Residents of Bilal Colony in Soura have urged the authorities, particularly the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), to take immediate steps to address the growing problem of stray dogs in the area. Locals said a large number of stray dogs have been roaming the residential locality, creating difficulties for residents to move freely, particularly during the morning and evening hours. They said elderly people, women and young children are finding it increasingly difficult to venture outside their homes due to the presence of stray dogs. Residents also expressed concern that the situation could pose a safety risk, especially for children walking to schools and people returning home after dark. The number of stray dogs has increased considerably in the area, and people are worried about their safety. Even taking children outside has become difficult, a resident said. Residents appealed to the SMC to conduct an immediate assessment of the canine population in the locality and take appropriate measures in accordance with the applicable rules. Locals have also urged the civic authorities to strengthen measures for managing the stray dog population and ensure that residents, particularly children and elderly persons, can move around the area without fear.

Language of Our Elders

There was a time when Kashmiri, our sweet mother tongue, was spoken everywhere. People spoke it fluently, read it with ease, and wrote it beautifully. But its heartbreaking to see it struggling today. Back then, Kashmiri wasnt taught in schools because people loved and spoke it so much at home. Not to talk of reading or writing it, now we hardly speak it. Modern parents dont speak to their children in Kashmiri, neither at home nor outside. Sadly, some people now feel ashamed of it. They think speaking Kashmiri makes them look inferior. They feel small about using their own mother tongue. But our elders were never like this. Our parents always spoke to us in Kashmiri, with pride and grace. They never mixed it or spoiled it. These new forms we hear todaycity Kashmiri or village Kashmiriare our creations. Our elders never divided the language like this. It is highly deplorable that in our fast life where the consciousness and way of life have radically changed, our majje zaev is deteriorating day by day and facing many difficulties. In our homes, the state of kashir zaban is like that of a daughter-in-law who hasnt brought along enough dowry. We have no emotional attachment for it whatsoever. We feel shy and absurd to converse and exchange our ideas in this sweet and lucid language because doing so seems like an insult to us. How long will the Kashmiris be unacquainted by their outlook. Being Kashmiris, we are losing our language despite using it overtly as our own. For instance, ask a student in school to say or write Kashmiri words like kunweh (unees-19), kuntreh (untees-29), kunwanzah (unchaas-49) and kunhaeth (unsath-59) and other such words respectively. They wont be able to write in Kashmiri. However, this could have been easy for them but it is not their fault. The weakness lies with us as their elders. The reason why they arent able to do so is because of our negligence. But, our elders who were the carriers of Kashmiri language didnt do this with us in their time. They spoke it with pride, treated it their identity and passed it on to us pridefully. It is perceived that at least two languages get diminished every year. We call ourselves Kashmiris, but we look and speak more Western. In reality, we are Kashmiri by name only. Every nation keeps its identity through its languagebecause language is the first sign of identity. But gosh! We (Kashmiris) are hanging in the middle where we neither know proper English nor proper Urdu and on an appropriate time we fail to speak any. We have distanced ourselves from our mother language. Our elders represent their homeland by speaking their mother tongue. No matter what, they dont switch to another language because it is their identity and they feel complete with it. But we feel ashamed to speak Kashmiri. Even as its inheritors, we seem like strangers to it. I would have written this article in Kashmiri, but sadly, few people read it now. We know many Urdu & English poets and writers. It would be just as good if we knew poets and scholars of our own language too. Reading John Keats and leaving Rasool Mir isnt the justice. Its simply shows our indifference towards the language that we have inherited from our parents. Reading Shakespeare, Keats, Wordsworth, Shaw and other English writers is important. But its equally important to read our own greats like Lal Ded, Habba Khatoon, Shaikhul Alam, Rasool Mir, Soch Kral, Wahab Khar,etc and modern poets like Mehjoor,Abdul Ahad Azad, Rehman Rahi, and Ameen Kamil etc. Our research scholars have so much of wealthier content available to do the research on these poets .But how painful, they are lost elsewhere! Writing in ones mother tongue brings true greatness. Alamdar-e-Kashmir (RA) and many other would not be remembered if they had not written in Kashmiri. Prof. Rehman Rahi, a Gyanpeeth Awardee, earned his name by writing in Kashmiri. Even Rabindranath Tagore won the Nobel Prize because he first wrote Gitanjali in his mother tongue, Bengali. One gets hurt when one finds that our kashir zaban is spoken as an amalgam. When we look around we find it very least spoken. English language has now entered our kitchen & has almost replaced our maje zaev. If we wont wake up then the day is not far when we will find ourselves struggling for the identity. We must love this language above anything else and against all odds we must try to pass on this rich language to our future generations who least bother about it. We must wake up and see how different people promote and propagate their languages. Until yesterday, we had illiterate parents but now they are literate; and these modern parents even in presence of their children seem to be out of place. Their new generation is least interested in their roots because they were brought up so. In short they have got no identity of theirs. Our elders respected Kashmiri language and spoke it with love and affection. They knew that a person can express his feelings and emotions better in no other language than his own. Lets join hands to save our elders language, our sweet mother tongue, from getting any more slaughter, contaminated and mutilated. Manzoor Akash, educator & author, is a regular columnist with GKs Senior Citizens Lounge

Altaf Bukhari calls for end to neglect, developmental deficit in Shaher-e-Khaas

Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari today expressed serious concern over the growing civic problems facing Srinagar, saying that the shortage of parking space in Downtown is only one aspect of a much larger crisis confronting the historic city. In his statement, Apni Party chief said: I came across a media report highlighting how the shortage of parking space in Downtown Srinagar is affecting local businesses. The lack of adequate parking is keeping people away from markets and hurting businesses, including those in the historic markets of Shaher-e-Khaas. He said that while the parking problem needs urgent attention, Srinagars civic challenges go far beyond it. The fact is that the parking issue is only one part of a much larger problem. Srinagar is facing several pressing civic issues, including inadequate housing, poor public infrastructure, damaged roads and lanes, insufficient drainage, and a lack of basic amenities, he said. Bukhari expressed particular concern over the shortage of drinking water in several parts of the city. The pathetic situation can be gauged from the fact that a large number of city residents do not even have access to an adequate supply of water. Many areas of Srinagar are struggling with a severe shortage of drinking water. It is deeply unfortunate that residents of a historic city like Srinagar continue to face such basic problems. Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari stressed the need for a comprehensive and long-term development plan for Srinagar, backed by genuine political will. Srinagar needs a comprehensive, long-term development plan. This requires political will and a firm commitment to putting peoples interests above politics. Superficial measures will not solve the citys problems. We need planned development, better infrastructure and sustained investment, he said. He said that successive governments had failed to provide the historic city with a clear and sustainable development direction. Unfortunately, successive governments have allowed this historic city to drift without a clear direction. The present government has received a mandate from the people, and it must now take the initiative to rebuild, upgrade and modernise Srinagars infrastructure through a planned and comprehensive approach, he said. Apni Party President emphasised that the people of Srinagar deserve much better. After all, the residents of this historic city deserve basic amenities that enable them to live a smooth, dignified and comfortable life. Srinagar is not just a city; it is the heart of our social, cultural and economic life. Its development and modernisation must therefore be treated as a priority, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said.

Fight desires, reject easy pleasures: IGP Kashmir tells students

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir range Sujit Kumar on Monday urged students to remain strong in the face of temptations and avoid shortcuts and easy pleasures, saying such choices could lead them towards destructive paths. Addressing the students and parents during a collaborative cultural evening titled KAASHHIM - a journey from Valley to Himalaya at Tyndale Biscoe and Mallinson School here, the Kashmir Police chief said students possessed the capability, imagination and strength to shape a better future, but needed to channel their energies in the right direction. As a police officer, my message to you all is never, never say never again. You have all the capabilities, imagination and strength, he said. He urged the students to confront their desires and resist the illegitimate wishes. You should always remain firm and disciplined. Fight with your desires, fight with your illegitimate wishes and be hard, be strong, he said. IGP Sujit Kumar advised the students to follow the guidance of their teachers and have faith in their parents and cautioned them against pleasures that come too easily. Anything that comes very easily, say no to them. Any pleasure that is very, very easy to achieve, it will take you to the doors of hell, he added. The IGP Kashmir said proper guidance from teachers and coaches could help students prepare themselves for a successful future. He also praised the cultural performances presented by students, describing the evening as a celebration of the fragrance of culture and talent. Referring to the distinction between civilisation and culture, he said civilisation was like a rose while culture was its fragrance, which could not be separated from it. He said the programmes represented a fusion of the cultures of two Himalayan valleys Shimla and Kashmir, describing the performances as a reflection of the talent and cultural richness of the region. The IGP Kashmir said cultural and educational institutions had an important role in keeping young people away from drugs and emerging online addictions, including betting and excessive involvement in social media. I hope that the continious promotion of culture and talent would help children stay away from such harmful influences and move in a strong direction, he added. He also praised the Tyndale Biscoe and Mallinson School for its contribution saying it was a pioneering institution in bringing culture, talent and parents together on one platform. Speaking about the journey of the school he said it was started by its first principal with only five students in 1890, while C.S. Tyndale Biscoe later joined the institution and contributed to its growth. I am a proud parent of three children associated with the school, he said. He further urged the students from Kashmir to carry the region's cultural values wherever they go. I would like the children of Kashmir to go to different corners of the country and tell them what soil they have come from and what is the strength of Kashmir, he added. During his address, he also invoked the imagery of the sea and storm, urging students to be prepared to face challenges rather than shying away from them. He also assured the school community that the J&K Police would remain available whenever required.

Biscoe-Mallinson hosts KAASHHIM, celebrates unity through diversity

Tyndale Biscoe and Mallinson School (TBMS), Srinagar, hosted a cultural evening titled KAASHHIM A Journey from Valley to Himalaya on Monday, bringing together the cultural traditions of Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh through music, dance and song. The programme was organised as part of the 75th Jubilee year celebrations of the Diocese of Amritsar, Church of North India (CNI), and featured performances by students of TBMS and St Thomas School, Shimla. The evening showcased the distinct cultural traditions of the two Himalayan regions while highlighting their shared heritage and connections. Performances by students received an enthusiastic response from the audience. In his welcome address, Director of the Tyndale Biscoe and Mallinson Society, Rahul Rex Kaul, described KAASHHIM as a celebration of the beauty, culture and spirit of the Himalayan region. From the Valley of Kashmir to the hills of Shimla, our landscapes may have their own character, language, tradition and expression, but we share the great Himalayas and a heritage shaped by these mountains over generations, he said. Kaul said the collaboration between TBMS and St Thomas School, Shimla, was aimed at bringing the cultural traditions of Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh together through music, dance and song. Former General Secretary of the CNI Synod and Executive Committee member of the Diocese of Amritsar, CNI, described the concept behind KAASHHIM as carrying a message beyond the stage, calling it a possible vision for the unity of the nation. Drawing an analogy with chemistry, he said that when two elements capable of gelling together come into contact, they can produce something significant. He said the collaboration between the two schools demonstrated how different people and cultures could come together to create something meaningful. At a moment when we are fighting over territories, languages and other differences, here is a team that comes together and gives the message of cultures and civilisations coming together, he said. He also recalled the contribution of Tyndale Biscoe School to Kashmirs educational landscape and said the institution had remained an important part of the regions educational heritage for generations. Bishop of the Diocese of Amritsar, CNI, and Chairman of the TBMS Society, Manoj Charan, said the programme was a celebration of music, dance, culture, friendship and young people coming together. Referring to the students performances, Charan praised their talent, confidence, discipline and energy. Explaining the name KAASHHIM, he said it was a creative combination of Kash, representing Kashmir and its rich cultural heritage, and Him, representing the Himalayas and Himachal Pradesh. KAASHHIM is more than a name, it is a journey and a bridge from the valleys of Kashmir to the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, he said. Charan described the programme as a bridge between two regions, cultural traditions and communities, and, most importantly, between the hearts, dreams and talents of young people. Kashmir has its own unique music, poetry, art, tradition and heritage. Himachal Pradesh has its own beautiful folk culture, colours and traditions. When these cultures come together, we do not lose our identity but we enrich one another, he said. He said cultural diversity should not be viewed as a source of division, but as a source of strength, beauty and fellowship. Charan said the evening was not merely a cultural programme but a celebration of unity through diversity, with Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh coming together through their students. He also acknowledged the contribution of teachers, coordinators, staff, parents and students who worked behind the scenes in preparing for the programme. Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Range, Sujit Kumar; Senior Superintendent of Police, Srinagar, Dr G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy; SP East Srinagar Neha Jain; parents; and senior functionaries of TBMS attended the event.

Loneliness in Elderly and Caregiver Beside Them

Every year, we talk about memory loss, forgetting names, repeating questions, getting lost, behavioural changes and the progressive loss of independence. We talk about diagnosis, medicines, brain health and the importance of early recognition. But there is another symptom of dementia that rarely appears in a prescription. Loneliness. And sometimes, it is not the person with dementia who is most lonely. It is the person sitting beside them. A person with dementia may forget that you visited yesterday. The caregiver remembers every day. They may forget the conversation you had five minutes ago. The caregiver remembers every conversationand every sleepless night. They may forget the name of the person caring for them. The caregiver knows their name, their medicines, their food preferences, their fears, their appointments and increasingly, their entire world. This is the strange tragedy of dementia: one persons memory fades, while another persons memories become unbearably heavy. A national Indian study estimated dementia prevalence among people aged 60 years and above in Jammu and Kashmir at 11.04%, higher than the national estimate of 7.43%. These are population estimates, not a diagnosis for every older person, but they are a powerful reminder that dementia deserves much greater attention in our communities. And dementia is not only a neurological disorder. It is a social disorder. The house may still be full of people, yet the person with dementia can become socially isolated. Conversations become shorter. Visitors become fewer. Family members may stop taking the person out because they wont understand anyway. Friends may quietly disappear. Eventually, the person who once occupied the centre of family life can become a silent presence in the corner of the room. But the science is telling us something important. Loneliness is not simply an unpleasant emotion. Research has linked loneliness and social isolation with poorer cognitive outcomes, cognitive decline and increased dementia risk. A large meta-analysis involving more than 600,000 people found that loneliness was associated with increased risk of dementia, including Alzheimers disease and vascular dementia. A newer international meta-analysis, including data from India, found that loneliness was associated with poorer overall cognitive performance and greater observer-rated cognitive decline. So perhaps our prescription for healthy ageing needs one more item: One meaningful human connection daily. Not a television running in the background. Not a WhatsApp group. Not a room full of people talking over the older person. A real conversation. Ask them about their childhood. Look through old photographs. Listen to the same storyeven if you have heard it twenty times. Sing an old song. Take them for a walk. Let them shell peas, fold clothes, water plants or sit in the sunshine. Give them a small responsibility rather than taking away every responsibility. And most importantly, talk to the person, not merely about the disease. If they cannot remember your name, introduce yourself again. If they repeat a question, answer again. If they make a mistake, correct them gentlyor sometimes dont correct them at all. Our goal should not always be to prove that they are wrong. Sometimes our goal should simply be to help them feel safe. And what about the caregiver? This is where another dangerous myth needs to be challenged: A good caregiver is not an exhausted caregiver. Caregiving can become a 24-hour occupation without a salary, weekend, annual leave or retirement age. The caregiver may gradually stop meeting friends, pursuing hobbies, exercising, sleeping properly or even visiting the doctor. Then comes guilt. I cannot leave him/her alone. I should be able to manage. What will people say? I am the daughter/son. It is my duty. Yes, it is a responsibility. But responsibility does not require self-destruction. The caregiver needs a team. One family member can manage appointments. Another can provide respite. Someone else can handle medicines or shopping. Neighbours, community groups, healthcare workers and support organisations can have a role, but that is minimal here. Even a few hours of relief can matter. WHO specifically recommends that caregivers seek help, take regular breaks and look after their own health. It also highlights social support, community groups and meaningful social activities as important interventions for older people. Perhaps we should therefore change one question. Instead of asking only: How is the patient doing? we should also ask: How is the caregiver doing? And perhaps once a week, somebody should ask the caregiver a third question: When was the last time you did something just for yourself? Dementia care is not about keeping someone alive while their world becomes smaller. It is about helping them retain dignity, identity, connection and purpose for as long as possible. And it is about making sure that the caregiver does not disappear from life while caring for his/her parents.. The most powerful medicine may sometimes be surprisingly simple: a familiar face, a patient conversation, a hand held without hurry, a walk outside, an old song, a cup of tea shared quietly. Because sometimes the person with dementia does not need another test. They need another human being. And sometimes the caregiver needs one too.

JK Media Guild condoles demise of veteran Journalist Syed Bashir Ahmad Simnaani

JK Media Guild expressed deep sorrow and grief over the demise of Syed Bashir Ahmad Simnaani, a veteran journalist of Kashmir Valley and Chief Editor of the daily Morning Times. In a hurriedly organised meeting attended by President JK Media Guild Mir Aijaz, Vice President Bilal Bazaz, General Secretary Imtiyaz Bazaz, organiser Shahid Rashid, convenor Khalid Qureshi and other executive members of the association, a resolution was passed in which tributes were paid to the deceased. The meeting, as per a statement, expressed solidarity with the bereaved family. Popularly known as Naushad Sb, in the media fraternity, Syed Bashir Ahmad Simnani rendered distinguished services to journalism in Kashmir from the 1980s till his last breath. Over the decades, he gave voice to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting their issues, concerns and sentiments. His passing away is a major loss to the journalistic fraternity, felt the participants. He was laid to rest at the graveyard in Rawalpora, Srinagar.

J&K Non-Teaching Employees Association welcomes appointment of New Director Colleges

The Jammu and Kashmir Non-Teaching Employees Association has welcomed the appointment of Prof. (Dr) Twinkle Suri as the newly appointed Director Colleges, Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as a positive step towards further strengthening the administration and functioning of colleges across the Union Territory. The Association, as per a statement, also welcomed the appointment under the leadership and guidance of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Higher Education Minister Madam Sakeena Itoo, and Commissioner/Secretary, Higher Education, Ram Niwas Sharma (IAS). A delegation of the Association visited the Directorate of Colleges and conveyed its greetings and best wishes to Dr Twinkle Suri. The delegation was led by Association President Javed Ahmad Akhoon and accompanied by General Secretary Abdul Hameed Rather, Publicity Secretary Kamlesh Parimoo, District President Srinagar Khurshid Ahmad Maliyar, and other senior members of the Association. The delegation congratulated Prof. (Dr) Twinkle Suri on assuming the important responsibility and expressed hope that her experience, leadership and administrative acumen would bring greater efficiency, transparency and responsiveness to the Directorate of Colleges. The Association stated that non-teaching employees constitute an important component of the higher education system and play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and effective day-to-day functioning of colleges. It expressed confidence that, under the new leadership, the genuine and long-pending issues of non-teaching employees would receive due attention and sympathetic consideration. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Prof. (Dr) Twinkle Suri on her appointment as Director Colleges, Jammu and Kashmir. We are hopeful that her leadership will usher in a new era of cooperation, efficiency and employee-friendly administration. The Association assures her of its full support and cooperation in the larger interest of higher education, the Association said. The Association further hoped that issues relating to service matters, career progression, promotions, staff welfare, and other genuine demands of non-teaching employees would be considered on priority.

BJPs Manzoor Bhat meets Tarun Chugh

BJP J&K spokesperson Manzoor Bhat on Tuesday met BJP National Headquarters In-charge and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Tarun Chugh and discussed the prevailing political scenario in Jammu & Kashmir. During the meeting, Bhat, as per a statement, highlighted growing public concerns over the functioning of the present government and stressed that Panchayat and Urban Local Body elections must be held at the earliest, as strengthening grassroots democracy remains the need of the hour. Bhat said that the developmental initiatives undertaken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the past decade have been widely appreciated by the people. He said elected Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies are essential for ensuring that development reaches the grassroots and continues effectively. He expressed concern over the National Conference governments reluctance to hold these elections, saying that the people of J&K deserve empowered grassroots institutions, development and accountable governance.

DDK Srinagar celebrates 67th Foundation Day, National Engineers Day

Doordarshan Kendra Srinagar on Tuesday celebrated Doordarshans 67th Foundation Day and National Engineers Day, highlighting the organisations glorious journey in public service broadcasting and acknowledging the dedication, technical expertise and invaluable contributions of its engineering fraternity. The twin observances, as per a PIB statement, underscored Doordarshans enduring commitment to informing, educating, entertaining and uniting people while recognising the crucial role of technology and engineering in ensuring seamless broadcasting and effective public communication. Deputy Director General (Engineering), H.P. Meena, said, Engineers are the backbone of modern broadcasting. Behind every seamless news bulletin, live transmission and successful programme is a team of dedicated technical professionals working with precision, commitment and a strong sense of public service. Director News, Regional News Unit, DDK Srinagar, Qazi Salman, said, The 67th Foundation Day of Doordarshan is a celebration of its enduring legacy of public service, while National Engineers Day reminds us of the dedicated technical professionals who make this service possible. At DDK Srinagar, the seamless coordination between our editorial and engineering teams is the foundation of credible, timely and impactful broadcasting. S.N.H. Abidi, Assistant Director (Engineering), said, the broadcasting landscape is undergoing rapid technological transformation. He observed that from conventional transmission systems to digital platforms and advanced production technologies, engineers were at the forefront of this change.

Govt must be held accountable for its performance: Mohammad Syed Akhoon

Prominent political leader and Apni Party Vice President Mohammad Syed Akhoon on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the J&K government, accusing it of failing on every front and completely disappointing the people who voted it to power. He said the ruling National Conference (NC) had made a series of big promises during the election campaign but had failed to deliver on them after coming to power. He said the governments performance had exposed a clear gap between the claims made before the elections and the situation on the ground. In his statement issued here, Akhoon, as per a party statement Said: Ruling National Conference (NC) literally befooled people with its tall claims, false promises and emotional slogans during the 2024 Assembly election campaign,. He further said, People trusted the NCs promises and gave it a massive mandate, but two years down the line, those who voted the party to power feel deeply betrayed, as the government has failed on every front. Akhoon said that during the election campaign, NC leaders repeatedly claimed that, if voted to power, their government would provide one lakh government jobs to unemployed youth soon after taking charge. They also promised to regularise daily wagers to ensure them a secure livelihood. Furthermore, NC promised 200 units of free electricity and free gas cylinders to domestic consumers, besides additional ration for the people. None of these major promises has been fulfilled even after two years in office. The promises that were loudly repeated during the election campaign seem to have disappeared once the elections were over and the votes were secured, Akhoon said. He said the growing disappointment among the people was a result of the governments failure to honour its commitments and address their genuine concerns. He said the public has begun to realise that the ruling party secured their votes through false promises, exaggerated claims and emotional rhetoric, only to abandon those commitments after coming to power. Akhoon said the government must be held accountable for its poor performance and it should explain to the people why it had failed to fulfil the commitments made before the elections.

Inaugural Chinar Premier League concludes with thrilling cricket finale

The Chinar Corps concluded the first edition of the Chinar Premier League (CPL) Cricket Tournament 2026 at Gen Bipin Rawat Stadium, Baramulla, with a sense of bonhomie, sportsmanship & pride. The event, as per a PIB defence wing statement issued on Tuesday, marked a significant milestone in the region's sporting calendar, where this year's tournament saw record participation. Out of 130 teams registered, 79 teams were selected from across the Kashmir Valley. The successful conduct reinforced CPL 2026 as one of the most competitive and widely followed cricket tournaments in the region, which will inspire the talented youth of the valley to follow their dream. The grand finale showcased an intense contest between Sultan Warriors Baramulla and Ramzii Sports Srinagar, where Sultan Warriors Baramulla triumphed over Ramzii Sports Srinagar and lifted the coveted CPL 2026 Trophy. The ceremony was graced by Atal Dulloo, IAS, Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir UT Govt, and the GOC, Dagger Division, alongside distinguished guests from the local community. CPL 2026 celebrated cricketing talent from across Kashmir Valley and served as a platform for strengthening the bond between the Indian Army and the local community, specially youth.

Khyber Kashmir Super League Season 2: Sanctorum North United, Aqua Kashmir Avengers play out 2-2 draw

Sanctorum North United FC and Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the Khyber Kashmir Super League (KSL) Season 2 on Tuesday, with both sides sharing the points after an intense contest. The match, as per a statement, witnessed an attacking battle between the two teams, with both sides creating opportunities and pushing forward in search of goals. Neither team was willing to give up ground, resulting in an exciting contest that remained closely fought throughout. Sanctorum North United FC found the net twice, while Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC also scored two goals to ensure the points were shared at the final whistle. Ifham Tariq was adjudged the Man of the Match for his impressive performance during the encounter. The 2-2 draw adds another closely contested result to the KSL Season 2, which has witnessed several matches being decided by narrow margins or ending in draws. The league action will continue on Wednesday, with Athwas India XI FC taking on United Elegant FC in the next fixture.