Lieutenant Governor chairs high-level review meeting of Prisons Department
Jammu, Nov 05: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high-level review meeting of the Prisons Department at the Lok Bhavan today to discuss ways to strengthen prison security and management protocols across Jammu Kashmir. The meeting was attended by DGP Shri Nalin Prabhat; DGP, Prisons J&K, Shri Deepak Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Shri Chandraker Bharti; Special DG Coordination PHQ, S.J.M.Gillani; ADG CID, M. K. Sinha; Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor, Shri Govind Jaiswal; Additional Director IB J&K and Ladakh, Pankaj Kumar Thakur; and other senior officials. Emphasizing robust jail administration, the Lieutenant Governor called for a unified coordination mechanism between the Police, Prisons Department, and intelligence agencies. He instructed for regular review meetings and intelligence sharing between the Police, Prisons Department, and intelligence agencies to combat terror networks, radicalization, and law and order threats. The Lieutenant Governor directed surprise checks of prison premises and surrounding areas, as well as forensic analysis of any seized electronic devices. Discussions were also focused on formation of dedicated Prison Intelligence Units in jails, biometric systems across all jails, expansion of Tele-medicine facilities for inmates and strengthening of human resources in the Prisons Department. The Lieutenant Governor also reviewed the progress of the upcoming High-Security Prison in Mahanpur. He directed officials to expedite remaining works within the stipulated timelines.
AIIMS Awantipora to offer 100 MBBS seats soon: Sakina Itoo
Srinagar, Nov 05: Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister Sakina Itoo on Thursday said AIIMS Awantipora in south Kashmir is expected to offer 100 MBBS seats soon, marking a significant step towards strengthening medical education and healthcare services in the Union Territory. Minister Itoo made the announcement after accompanying Union Health Minister J P Nadda during his visit to the institute in Pulwama district, where he reviewed its progress. Minister Sakina Itoo said Nadda had indicated that 100 MBBS seats would be made available soon, expressing hope that the institution would become fully functional at the earliest. She said the operationalisation of AIIMS Awantipora would improve access to specialised healthcare and advanced medical facilities, particularly for patients from south Kashmir. The Union Health Minister has stressed that the institute should become functional as soon as possible. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has visited the institute several times over the past two years, and I have also reviewed its progress to ensure its early operationalisation, she said. The minister said the institute would play an important role in improving patient care and reducing the need for people to travel outside Jammu and Kashmir for specialised treatment. During the visit, minister Itoo also sought Nadda's intervention in facilitating the return of the mortal remains of Adnan Ahmed Rather, a final-year MBBS student from Sopore who died in Bangladesh. She said she had handed over the student's documents and contact details to the Union Health Minister and requested him to take up the matter with the concerned ministry. The family is extremely distressed, and his mother is in a state of shock. I have requested the Union Health Minister to ensure that his mortal remains are brought back at the earliest, minister Itoo said. She added that Nadda had assured her that he would speak to the concerned ministry and extend assistance in bringing the student's body back to his family. (KNS)
ECI says Special Summary Revision in J&K will be annouced in due course of time
New Delhi, Nov 05: The Election Commission on Thursday said the Special Summary Revision of electoral rolls in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh will be annouced in due course of time. The Commission said the schedule for roll revision in these three States/UTs will be announced in due course, keeping in view their weather conditions. Also, for the 3 States/UTs namely Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, where SIR has not been started so far, schedule for roll revision will be announced in due course of time keeping in view their weather conditions, the ECI said. The last revision of electoral rolls in Jammu & Kashmir was carried out in 2024. Since then, no such activity has been undertaken in Jammu & Kashmir.(KNO)
No rebellion in NC, legislators grievances will be addressed: Salman Sagar
Srinagar, Nov 05: National Conference MLA Salman Ali Sagar on Thursday dismissed reports of rebellion within the ruling party, saying concerns raised by a section of legislators were being addressed by party president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, with discussions expected to take place shortly. Speaking to reporters after meeting senior NC leader and Gurez MLA Nazir Ahmad Gurezi at his Tulsi Bagh residence in Srinagar, Sagar said differences among party legislators were being unnecessarily portrayed as a larger political crisis. There is no rebellion in the party. Some members have small grievances, and those will be sorted out. They may have already fixed a time with the Chief Minister, Sagar said. He said the party leadership was in direct contact with the legislators who had raised concerns and expressed confidence that the issues would be resolved through dialogue. Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah are looking at these matters minutely. There is no such thing as a rebel in the party, he said. Asked about a possible meeting between the leadership and the legislators, Sagar indicated that discussions were expected, adding that recent engagements of senior leaders had caused a brief delay in addressing their concerns. There were several important engagements in Delhi, which led to a break of a few days. Now that those engagements are over, the leadership will discuss the concerns of the legislators, he said. He maintained that communication gaps and disagreements were common within political organisations and should not automatically be interpreted as signs of a split. Sometimes there is a communication gap, sometimes there are arguments and small disagreements. Such things happen in every family. The leadership is sorting them out, Sagar said. The Hazratbal legislator said those anticipating a division within the National Conference would be disappointed once the concerns were resolved. Those who wanted to enjoy this situation will be upset when these issues are sorted out, he remarked. Responding to questions about the reported discontent among senior party legislators, including Mubarak Gul, Nazir Gurezi and Qaiser Jamsheed Lone, Sagar acknowledged their political standing and contributions to the National Conference. He also referred to Farooq Ahmad Shah and Aijaz Ahmad Jan among the senior leaders whose concerns deserved attention. Gul Sahib, Qaiser Sahib, Gurezi Sahib, Farooq Shah Sahib and Aijaz Jan Sahib are all important leaders of the party. They have contributed significantly, both politically and administratively. Their standing in the party is not ordinary, he said. Asked about reports that supporters of Mubarak Gul intended to continue their protests, Sagar said he was unaware of the specific statements made by them but reiterated that the party respected its senior leaders. He rejected suggestions that his visit to Gurezi's residence was linked to any behind-the-scenes political negotiations, saying there was no separate political activity underway. On whether he was personally mediating between the legislators and the leadership, Sagar said the party's senior leadership was handling the matter directly. Who am I? I am a small worker of the party. The leadership is directly in touch with everyone. All these legislators are in contact with the leadership, he said. His remarks come amid discontent within the National Conference following the recent cabinet expansion, with a group of legislators having raised concerns over representation, governance and implementation of the party's electoral commitments. The legislators had also submitted a memorandum seeking action on several issues, including the implementation of manifesto promises and commitments made during earlier internal discussions. Sagar, however, maintained that the differences were internal matters that could be resolved through consultations rather than public confrontation. He also declined to elaborate on his earlier remarks concerning BJP leader Ram Madhav, saying he would address the issue separately.(KNS)
Mehbooba Mufti Unanimously Re-Elected PDP President
Srinagar, Nov 5: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti was unanimously re-elected president of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) here on Thursday. She has held the post continuously since 2002. In a statement, the party said members of the electoral college from Jammu and Srinagar unanimously supported Mehboobas re-election. The [] The post Mehbooba Mufti Unanimously Re-Elected PDP President appeared first on Northlines .
AIIMS Awantipora to start with 100 MBBS seats soon: Sakina Itoo
MeT forecasts light rain, snow in Jammu and Kashmir today
Srinagar, Nov 5: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to witness brief spells of light rain and light snowfall at a few places on Wednesday, while dry weather is expected to prevail over the next four days, according to the Meteorological Department Srinagar. In its weather update, the MeT Department said November 6 to 9 would remain generally dry across Jammu and Kashmir. It forecast generally cloudy weather on November 10 and 11, with spells of light to moderate rain and light to moderate snowfall over higher reaches likely at scattered to many places from the evening of November 10. The department's forecast indicates a possible change in weather conditions towards the middle of next week.
Light rain, snow likely in parts of J&K today; dry weather till November 9
Mehbooba Mufti re-elected PDP president unanimously
Harold Greene, Veteran News Anchor And Journalist, Dies At 82: What We Know About His Death
Harold Greene, the veteran ABC7 and CBS2 news anchor, has died aged 82.Here is what we know about the news anchors death, television career and the cause of death that has not yet been disclosed.
For The First Time Ever, 2 Restaurants In India Feature On World's 50 Best Restaurants List
This year, a destination dining restaurant in Spain was named the world's best restaurant.
SC rules 24-hour arrest deadline begins from detention, not formal arrest
The Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that the 24-hour constitutional deadline for producing an arrested person before a magistrate begins from the moment he is detained, and not from the time the police formally makes the arrest. Holding that there can be no artificial distinction between 'arrest' and 'detention' for the purpose of Article 22(2) of the Constitution, a bench of Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Atul S Chandurkar said any interpretation allowing the police to exclude the period of pre-arrest detention would be contrary to the constitutional mandate. The view that 24 hours begin only from the formal arrest is contrary to the constitutional mandate of Article 22(2) and Section 56 of the BNSS, the bench observed. The verdict that the only period that can be excluded while computing the 24-hour deadline is the time reasonably required to travel from the place of arrest to the magistrate's court. The time spent on inquiry, investigation, search or seizure before formal arrest ..
CM Omar calls for education system that promotes independent thinking, ethical use of AI
Jammu, Nov 05: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday called for a shift in the education system from rote learning and memorisation towards independent thinking, ethical conduct and the development of well-rounded citizens, saying academic excellence alone cannot define the purpose of education. In his address as the chief guest at the Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar Education Society (DJSES) Awards 2026 at the Government Convention Centre here, Omar Abdullah said that education is the foundation of what we will go on to become but it was not everything. He emphasised the need to look beyond examination results he said while securing marks required for admission to colleges was important, educational institutions must also focus on creating responsible citizens capable of thinking and acting independently. He said that the education system had, for a long time, remained centred around repetition and the ability of students to reproduce what they were taught, leaving little scope for independent thought. Children have to learn to think for themselves. Children have to learn to act for themselves. But children also have to be able to learn to distinguish between what is right and what is wrong, he added. CM Omar said the younger generation was facing challenges that previous generations had not encountered, particularly in an era dominated by digital platforms, social media and rapidly evolving technology. Drawing a comparison with his childhood, when television offered limited entertainment options, he said holding the attention of students had become increasingly difficult amid hundreds of television channels and platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and Snapchat. He also highlighted the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) in the education sector, saying the focus should be on teaching students to use the technology ethically and as a learning tool rather than a means of avoiding academic work. How do we get children to use Artificial Intelligence correctly, ethically? How do we get them to learn from it, not cheat from it? he said. He said students should not outsource their homework and essays to AI tools, stressing the need to ensure that technological advancements do not undermine their ability to think and learn independently. The Chief Minister also expressed concern over the declining habit of reading among youngsters, saying students must develop an interest in books beyond their prescribed syllabus. He said that reading played an important role in developing intellectual abilities and encouraged students to cultivate the habit of reading. He further highlighted the contribution of the Diocese and its educational institutions to Jammu and Kashmir, saying the society was running 24 schools across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, educating around 28,000 students annually and employing nearly 1,600 people. He said these institutions had produced civil servants, police officers, doctors and business leaders, but their most significant contribution was the creation of individuals who remained good human beings. The Chief Minister urged students not to hesitate in asking questions, saying questioning was essential for developing an informed and accountable society. There are no stupid questions. There are only stupid answers, he said and encouraged the youngsters to question existing practices and seek explanations about what was happening around them. He said a generation willing to ask questions would also make those in positions of responsibility answerable, ultimately contributing to a better Jammu and Kashmir. We must create a generation that is happy to ask what is happening, why it is happening and what we can do to make it better, Omar said. He congratulated the students who had excelled in examinations and employees completing 25 years of service in the society's schools. He said educational institutions must strive to produce well-rounded individuals rather than focus exclusively on academic achievements. Omar also recalled his personal association with the Diocese and its schools, saying his education briefly began at Presentation Convent in Srinagar before he moved to Burn Hall School, where he studied until Class 5. Recalling his childhood memories at Burn Hall, he spoke about Christmas celebrations, nativity plays and his repeated role as Angel Gabriel in the school's annual performances. He said the memories had remained close to his heart and reflected the longstanding personal connection he shared with the institution. CM Omar also urged youngsters to focus on becoming good human beings, saying values, mutual respect and compassion were as important as academic and professional success.
JP Nadda arrives in Awantipora to review progress of AIIMS Project
Srinagar, Nov 05: Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda arrived in Awantipora on Thursday to inaugurate and inspect the ongoing progress of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Awantipora. The 750-bed tertiary healthcare project is being developed under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) at a cost of over Rs 2,160 crore. During his visit, Nadda is scheduled to take stock of the construction work, review the facilities being developed and interact with officials overseeing the prestigious project. Once completed, AIIMS Awantipora is expected to significantly strengthen tertiary healthcare services in Kashmir and provide advanced medical facilities to the people of the Valley.(GNS)
Ramban admin imposes one-way traffic system for commercial vehicles on J-K highway
Jammu, Nov 05: As per the order issued on Thursday, all load carriers and commercial passenger vehicles, including Sumos, buses, mini-buses and Ecos, entering or leaving Ramban town will follow a one-way traffic route. The restrictions, issued under a relevant section of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, will remain in effect either for two months, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. These vehicles will enter the town from Shan Palace Naka and proceed via Bowli Bazar, T-Chowk, Bus Stand and Cafeteria Chowk, it said. The bus stand will not be accessible to commercial vehicles from the Cafeteria Chowk end, which will serve exclusively as the exit point for such vehicles. Loading and unloading of goods vehicles within the notified stretches will remain strictly prohibited between 8 am and 8 pm. The order aims to regulate traffic movement and prevent congestion, particularly in the Bus Stand area, T-Chowk, Bowli Bazar and adjoining stretches. Senior Superintendent of Police, Senior Superintendent of Police Traffic (NHW), and Assistant Regional Transport Officer have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the order. The order has been issued with immediate effect and will be publicised through print, electronic and social media for the information of the general public.
J.P. Naddas visit to AIIMS Awantipora raises hopes of institutes early opening
Srinagar, Nov 05: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has questioned the Ladakh administration's reported move against the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), alleging that the institution is being targeted despite receiving national and international recognition. In a statement, Wangchuk described the administration's action as a shahi farmaan against the school, sarcastically questioning the decision with the remark, Close schools and open liquor bars. There is a lot of raita spread on the internet and news about our school, Wangchuk said, adding that India's Parliamentary Committee on Education had recommended replicating HIAL across the country. He further claimed that the institution had received international recognition, including a permanent display at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and a feature in TIME magazine's list of 100 climate solutions. And yet... They want it closed! he said. The controversy stems from a notice issued by the Office of the Tehsildar, Leh, directing HIAL, co-founded by Wangchuk and Gitanjali J Angmo, to refrain from undertaking any further activities at the school until the court delivers its verdict or issues fresh directions. As per reports, the administration cited the commencement of classes and other activities without obtaining the requisite consent, clearances or approvals from the competent authorities. The notice also referred to a representation submitted by Angmo to the Deputy Commissioner, Leh, on September 22, seeking a no-objection certificate (NOC) or clearance for the proposed members of the school's managing committee.
Why Are Your Hands So Dry in Winter? A Dermatologist Explains
Why do your hands become rough and wrinkled every winter? A dermatologist explains dry air, skin barrier damage and frequent washing, plus simple ways to soothe them.
Translate Higher Education Council initiatives into tangible results: LG
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has called for a result-oriented transformation of Jammu and Kashmirs higher education sector, stressing the need to translate Higher Education Council initiatives into tangible outcomes, ensure effective utilisation of resources and build a comprehensive, holistic and student-centric education system. Chairing a high-level meeting of J&K Higher Education Council (JKHEC) at Lok Bhavan here, the Lt Governor set a six-month deadline for Universities in the Union Territory to roll out the Design Your Degree program. The meeting was among others attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Education Minister Shamim Firdous, Vice Chairman, J&K Higher Education Council, Prof Dinesh Singh, Acting Chief Secretary and Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department, Shailendra Kumar and vice chancellors of various universities and heads of IIT, IIM and NIT, Srinagar, an official spokesperson said. He said the Council was convened to chart a forward-looking roadmap for higher education. Discussions focussed on advancing academic excellence, fostering a culture of research and innovation, and strategically aligning institutions to meet future challenges and leverage emerging opportunities. The key agendas included sharing of academic credit and resources and recasting UG and PG programmes in the light of Design Your Degree and National Education Policy 2020, the spokesperson said, adding that the meeting further discussed the modalities to set up a Task Force for integrating AI (Machine Learning, Deep Learning) and Data science into UG and PG programmes. To drive academic reform, the Lt Governor emphasised a spirit of collaboration and urged institutions to share academic credits, research laboratories, and resources. Transforming higher education in Jammu Kashmir into a comprehensive, holistic, and visionary system is a shared responsibility. The time has now come to translate Higher Education Council initiatives into tangible achievements, while ensuring that every student benefits from outcome-oriented asset utilisation, Sinha said. Stressing the need for stronger intra-university collaboration, he said successful implementation relies on deep-rooted institutional reform and a solid long-term strategy. The Lt Governor emphasised the integration of artificial intelligence and modern technology into learning programmes, stressing the need to pioneer frontier technologies. He also highlighted that these programmes must incorporate local languages and cultures. The Council also reviewed the progress of ongoing Higher Education initiatives, Engineering Kitchens and Entrepreneurship programmes, and Budgetary outlay and Reform of the Fund Allocation Mechanism, the spokesperson said.
Nimbadi Kashaya (2) Ingredients, Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Indications & Dosages Introduction Nimbadi Kashaya is a polyherbal Ayurvedic decoction described ... Read more The post Nimbadi Kashaya (2) appeared first on Planet Ayurveda .
NC dissidents to meet again today ahead of crucial talks with party leadership
Srinagar, Nov 05: Ahead of their meeting with the National Conference leadership scheduled for Friday morning, party legislators, upset over recent cabinet-reshuffle-cum expansion, are expected to meet on Thursday evening to finalise their strategy for the talks, sources said. Sources said that the legislators are likely to discuss their future course of action and prepare a common stand ahead of their meeting with the party leadership. The meeting is likely to be held at the residence of NC MLA Mubarak Gul today, sources disclosed. This would be the fourth meeting of the group, whose deliberations since October 30 have raised questions about the stability of the government. In their memorandum submitted to the NC leadership, the group has demanded a restructuring of the Cabinet, including an assessment of the performance of ministers who have completed two years in office, and the removal of non-performers. The legislators have also sought the withdrawal of the Roads & Buildings Department portfolio from Surinder Choudhary, who retained the department despite facing criticism from more than 20 legislators during the June 3 Dachigam meeting. The group has also demanded the removal of the Chief Minister's Advisor, Nasir Aslam Wani. As exclusively reported by KNO earlier, the dissident group is expected to meet the NC leadership on Friday morning to discuss its grievances(KNO)
Fake cybercrime officials dupe Batmaloo man of Rs 50,000, four booked
Srinagar, Nov 05: Police have registered a case against four persons for impersonating Cyber Crime officials and cheating a man of rupees 50,000 in Batmaloo area of Srinagar, officials said. An official said that a complaint was received from a man alleging that four persons had cheated him by posing as officers of the Cyber Crime Department. He said the accused fraudulently took rupees 50,000 from the complainant. The official said an FIR (No. 139/2026) under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been registered at Police Station Batmaloo and further investigation is underway.(KNO)
20-Year-Old Ghee Found In Grandfather's House Goes Viral. Can It Really Last For Decades?
An unusual discovery has taken social media by surprise, with a viral video showing what is claimed to be a two-decade-old jar of ghee found in a man's grandfather's house.
Ruhullah says NC 'surrendered' before BJP, vows to oppose normalisation of status quo
Srinagar, Nov 05: Former National Conference leader and Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Thursday alleged that his confrontation with the NC was over its surrender before the BJP, and vowed that he would not allow this to be normalised. Ruhullah, who announced his resignation from the National Conference and from his Srinagar Lok Sabha seat at a public rally in Budgam on November 3, also dismissed BJP leader Ram Madhav's remarks that his rally was held with the blessings of BJP supporters, saying he had no association with him. My confrontation with the National Conference was because the National Conference surrendered before the BJP, and I will not let this surrender be normalised, Ruhullah said. Asked about Madhav's claim, the Srinagar MP said, I don't know Ram Madhav. May Allah protect me from dealing with such people. He asked the NC leadership to explain Madhav's statement, suggesting they might be better placed to clarify it. Ask them. Maybe they have called Ram Madhav themselves. They will know more because they must have spoken to him, he said. Asserting that no intervention by BJP leaders would persuade him to accept the prevailing political status quo in Jammu and Kashmir, Ruhullah said, No matter how many Ram Madhavs come to help them or save them, no matter how many BJP leaders come to their rescue, I will not let this status quo be normalised. He said the BJP's policies, its approach towards Jammu and Kashmir and its aggressive handling of the region would continue to face opposition. The BJP, its policies, its aggression and its degradation and handling of this state will not go unchallenged. It will be challenged, he said. The row intensified after Madhav, during a visit to Jammu on November 3, said Ruhullah was holding the Budgam rally with the blessings of our people, while describing the NC as a visibly divided party. Madhav, however, maintained that the BJP had no involvement in the internal affairs of the ruling party. The NC subsequently criticised Ruhullah over his resignation, accusing him of turning against the party after benefiting from its political platform. Ruhullah, elected to the Lok Sabha from Srinagar in the 2024 general elections on an NC ticket, had been associated with the party for nearly 24 years. He had accused the NC leadership, particularly Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, of abandoning key electoral commitments, including the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's special status. He has indicated that his future political course would focus on building a broader movement for the restoration of the rights and dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)
Gary Mehigan Says Makhana Is Better Than Popcorn. His Latest Recipe Proves Why
Chef Gary Mehigan shares a unique Makhana Toffee Crunch recipe using roasted makhana, nuts, seeds, jaggery, and spices for a sweet snack.
Trump Admits War In Iran, Oil Prices Led to Poll Loss; But Says Would 'Do It Again'
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was largely true that the war in Iran cost the Republicans heavy losses in the midterm election, but struck a defiant note, saying he would do it again as it was the only
EAM Jaishankar urges Commonwealth partners to 'de-risk and diversify'
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has urged Commonwealth partners to de-risk and diversify, emphasising the need to enhance local distribution among member nations. Jaishankar arrived in St. John's on Tuesday to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Commonwealth partners also need to de-risk and diversify. This requires shorter and trusted supply chains, Jaishankar posted on social media after attending the Commonwealth heads of government and business leaders' breakfast meeting on Wednesday. Jaishankar said Commonwealth partners need to make more efforts to enhance local distribution, adding that more connectivity corridors are good for business. Promote training and capacity building as it gives more options for partners, he said. EAM said that the Indian business community spread across the world is an asset for the Commonwealth. Speaking about the significance of digital public infrastructure for good governance, Jaishankar said, Digital is
Kathua, Nov 05: A 50-year-old man from Bihar was found dead at Hattli Morh in Kathua district on Thursday, officials said. An official said that the man was found lying unconscious near a mulberry tree at Hattli Morh. He said locals spotted him and informed the police, following which he was shifted to Government Medical College (GMC) Kathua, where doctors declared him brought dead. The deceased was identified as Samiullah (50), a native of Bihar. The official said an investigation is underway, while medico-legal formalities are being completed. The body will be handed over to the family after completion of formalities.(KNO)
Iranians celebrate setback for Trump in US election, and other Mideast news
Dubai, Nov 05: Iranian officials were emboldened by a stinging election setback for US President Donald Trump, and world leaders waited to see whether Washington would end the war with Iran. Meanwhile, the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed they fired strikes on an airport in the Saudi capital of Riyadh. The Israeli military said it struck two suspects in Lebanon, killing one person. Here is the latest news from the Middle East on Wednesday. Read our full coverage here. Irans leaders say election shows US voters rejected Trumps war Iranians celebrated on Wednesday after US voters, concerned about the war and frustrated over rising prices for fuel, gave Democrats control of Congress in Tuesdays vote a major blow for Trump and his Republican Party. Irans chief negotiator and parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, wrote Wednesday on X that Americans said NO TO WAR, and we endorse this message. He warned that if the US government ignores the vote for change, it will learn our NO comes with a Nightmare. But Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, dismissed thoughts that the US will change its approach to the Islamic Republic. The broader region has been on edge for weeks over whether the US will resume full-scale military operations against Iran. Talks are ongoing aimed at preventing renewed fighting. Underscoring the mutual hostility, thousands marched through Tehran on Wednesday at a government-organized demonstration commemorating the anniversary of the 1979 takeover of the U.S. Embassy. Pro-government demonstrators burned American and Israeli flags and chanted Death to America and Death to Israel. UN peacekeeping chief says Lebanon needs UN presence and urges a Security Council decision Jean-Pierre Lacroix said Wednesday that Lebanese officials fear a security vacuum between Israeli forces and the Lebanese army when the UN peacekeeping mission known as UNIFIL ends December 31. Lacroix, who recently returned from the Middle East, warned of the risks of leaving the two armies sort of face-to-face without a third-party presence. He questioned who would monitor the U.N.-drawn Blue Line separating Israel and Lebanon, prevent unintended clashes and support communities in southern Lebanon. The border region patrolled by UNIFIL has experienced decades of violence, including a full-scale war between Israel and Hezbollah militants in 2024. Israel has long accused UNIFIL of failing to prevent Hezbollah from building up its military presence along the border. Lacroix said efforts to disarm Hezbollah had failed because there was no political will. The United States, Israels closest ally, successfully pushed the U.N. Security Council to end the mission after nearly five decades. U.N. Secretary-General Antnio Guterres proposed three options in June to maintain U.N. monitoring along the border. Lacroix said unarmed UN military observers would still be authorized to operate in southern Lebanon but questioned how they could do so without protection or support. He said a Security Council resolution adopted in 2000 remains in effect. The council is scheduled to discuss it Nov. 19. Houthis claim strikes on targets in Saudi Arabia In Yemen, the Iran-backed Houthis on Wednesday claimed without providing evidence that they targeted King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh as well as several areas in southern parts of the country. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said rebels fired a ballistic missile toward the airport, causing what he described as major damages to the airport. He also claimed that the group fired a drone at a radar installation and a ballistic missile at a command and control center in the Jazan province. The Associated Press couldnt independently verify these claims. The Saudi information ministry didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. The Saudi civil defense issued an alert in Riyadh overnight and other warning alerts of potential danger in Jazan and Najran early Wednesday. The Houthis have repeatedly targeted oil and logistic facilities as well as airports in Saudi Arabia as part of their plan to fight what they describe as the kingdoms blockade on Yemen. 7 killed in airstrike in Yemen, Houthis say At least seven people, including two children, were killed in an airstrike Wednesday in Yemens southwestern province of Taiz, Houthi health authorities said. The Houthi-run health ministry said in a statement the strike hit a house in the district of Maqbanah and also wounded six other children. The Houthi media aired footage it said was of the struck building. The footage showed a heavily damaged concrete building, with large sections of the roof and walls collapsing. The ministry blamed Saudi Arabia, which didnt immediately comment on the accusations. It was the latest deadly strike in Yemen since the countrys civil war was revived more than three months ago. The fighting pits the Iranian-backed Houthis against Saudi Arabia and its ally, Yemen's internationally recognized government. Israeli drone strike on southern Lebanon In Lebanon, the Health Ministry said the strike on a motorcycle in the village of Qabrikha killed one person and wounded another. The Israeli military said in a statement that it had struck two suspects who were observing IDF soldiers without providing further details. The attack was the first in nearly a month as such drone strikes have been rare since a US-brokered ceasefire in late June ended the latest Israel-Hezbollah war.
Indian-Americans win in US midterm polls
New Delhi, Nov 4:Several Indian-American candidates won key contests in the US midterm elections, securing victories in the House of Representatives and state-level offices, while Republican Vivek Ramaswamy lost the Ohio governors race to Democrat Amy Acton, according to The Indian Express. Democrats Suhas Subramanyam, Pia Dandiya, Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal won their respective House races. Aruna Miller was re-elected Maryland lieutenant governor. Other Indian-American winners included Josh Kaul, who won the Wisconsin attorney generals race; Aparna Raj, elected to the Washington, DC Council from Ward 1; and Jyot Singh, who won Georgias House District 97. Dandiya won Floridas 22nd congressional district, while Subramanyam retained Virginias 10th district. Khanna won Californias 17th district and Jayapal retained Washingtons 7th district. Among those who lost were Republican candidates Saritha Komatireddy in the New York attorney generals race, Ritesh Tandon in Californias 17th congressional district, Nirav Sheth in Washingtons 7th district and Mahesh Ganorkar in North Carolinas 4th district. Independent candidate Anil Kumar also lost in Michigans 11th district. Several contests involving Indian-American candidates were still awaiting final results.
Democrats win both Houses of US Congress in major setback to Donald Trump
New Delhi, Nov 4:The Democratic Party has scored a sweeping victory in the US midterm elections, winning control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate in a major setback to US President Donald Trump, according to final results/projections reported by the international media and BBC. The result will give the Democrats control of both chambers of Congress from January 2027, allowing them to block or delay key parts of Trumps legislative agenda and intensify scrutiny of his administration for the remainder of his presidency. The scale of the defeat has surprised even many Democrats, who had not expected such a strong performance. The party secured a series of victories in states that had supported Trump in the 2024 presidential election, including Texas, Ohio, Kansas and South Carolina. The results point to growing voter dissatisfaction with the Republican administration, particularly over the rising cost of living, higher fuel prices and the war with Iran. In his initial reaction, US President, Donald Trump sought to distance himself from the outcome, writing on his Truth Social platform: I wasnt on the ballot and if I was, we would have won in a landslide! He later acknowledged the Democrats performance, saying they did a good job, and admitted that the Iran war and rising fuel prices had contributed to the Republican defeat, the BBC reported. The election has also triggered criticism within the Republican Party, with some party members blaming Trump for the losses. Republican lobbyist Bill Miller told the BBC that the result was a total, complete rejection of President Trump. Republican strategists also pointed to the Presidents low approval ratings, unpopular policies and failure to address voters concerns about rising household expenses. Cost of living emerges as key issue The economy and the cost of living emerged as major concerns for voters. According to a voter survey cited by the BBC, economic worries and political corruption featured prominently in public opinion. The election results suggest that many Americans are holding the President and his party responsible for the pressure on household budgets. Higher fuel prices, in particular, have added to public frustration amid the conflict with Iran. The Democrats gains could therefore have implications beyond Congress, serving as a warning to the Republican Party ahead of the next presidential election. Texas delivers major surprise One of the most striking outcomes came from Texas, a state that has traditionally voted Republican in national and statewide elections. Democrats celebrated victories in both the Senate and governors races. Gina Hinojosa was projected to become the states first Latina governor, marking a major political shift in a state long regarded as a Republican stronghold. The Democrats also won Senate races in Kansas and South Carolina, while making significant gains in Ohio and Iowa. In North Carolina, the party secured a Senate victory for the first time since 2008. These results underline the extent of the Republican setback and suggest that dissatisfaction with Trump has spread beyond traditionally Democratic areas. Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed has won Michigans Senate race, becoming the first Muslim to be elected to the US Senate. The 42-year-old defeated Republican former representative Mike Rogers in a closely fought contest and will take office in January 2027. An outspoken critic of Israel, El-Sayed was described as a jihadist lunatic by President Donald Trump during the campaign, The Indian Express reported. What the result means for Trump The United States Congress consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Both play a central role in passing legislation, approving government spending and overseeing the executive branch. With Democrats controlling both chambers, Trump will find it harder to secure congressional approval for his domestic priorities. The opposition will also have greater scope to investigate administration policies and summon officials for hearings. However, the election result does not remove Trump from office or automatically reverse his policies. He will remain President, and the extent to which Democrats can change legislation will depend on the issue and the votes required in Congress. The defeat nevertheless weakens Trumps political position and raises questions about his ability to maintain party unity and deliver on his promises. The international media analysts see it as a historic rout for the Republicans, with the Democrats achieving a level of success that had appeared unlikely only a few months earlier. The results also put pressure on Republican leaders to reassess their approach to economic concerns and the Iran conflict. For Trump, the challenge now will be to work with a Congress controlled by his political opponents or risk prolonged confrontation over legislation, spending and investigations. For the Democrats, the victory brings an opportunity to challenge his agenda, but also the responsibility of demonstrating that they can respond to voters economic concerns.
JKCA invites registered players to apply for IPL 2027 auction
Jammu, Nov 4:The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has invited applications from all JKCA-registered players interested in participating in the IPL 2027 Player Auction. In an official notice issued by the Association, eligible players have been advised to submit their complete particulars and requisite supporting documents through email at jkca.ipl2022@gmail.com. The details, as per a statement issued, required include the players first name, last name, email ID, parentage and date of birth. The Association has clarified that U-19 players will be eligible for the IPL 2027 Player Auction only if they are registered with JKCA and have played at least one match in either First-Class or List A cricket. For the 2027 season, a U-19 player must have been born on or after April 1, 2008. JKCA further stated that all applications will undergo scrutiny and verification before eligible players are registered online by the Association. Only players registered with JKCA will be considered for registration through the Association. The complete details, along with the necessary supporting documents, must reach the Association by November 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM. Applications received after the stipulated deadline will not be entertained. The notice has been issued pursuant to the instructions received from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Ranji Trophy 2026-27:Qamran, Shubham smash centuries, J&K take 106-run lead against Pondicherry
Srinagar, Nov 4:J&K produced a sensational batting performance on the third day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group match against Pondicherry, with openers Qamran Iqbal and Shubham Khajuria smashing magnificent centuries to put the hosts in a commanding position at the Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium here on Wednesday. Resuming their first innings at 149 without loss, J&K rode on a monumental 344-run opening partnership between Qamran and Shubham to reach 491 for five at stumps, taking a crucial 106-run lead over Pondicherry. Qamran, who had remained unbeaten on 68 overnight, went on to score a brilliant 160 off 292 deliveries, while Shubham converted his overnight 80 into a magnificent 190 off 330 balls. Both batters displayed remarkable patience and composure, disappointing the Pondicherry bowlers throughout the first two sessions and putting J&K in a commanding position. The opening stand was eventually broken when Shubham was dismissed by Sagar Udeshi for 190, narrowly missing out on a double century. Qamran followed shortly after, falling to Ankit Sharma for 160. Their departure, however, did little to derail J&Ks momentum as the middle order continued to contribute valuable runs. Kawalpreet Singh remained unbeaten on 53, while Abdul Samad scored 37 and Sahil Lotra contributed a quick 30 off 26 deliveries. At stumps, Kawalpreet was batting on 53 and wicketkeeper Rydham Sharma was unbeaten on two. Pondicherrys bowlers struggled to contain the hosts, with Sagar Udeshi claiming two wickets, while Gaurav Yadav, Sagar Trivedi and Ankit Sharma picked up one wicket each. The days play marked a significant turnaround for J&K, who had struggled with the bat in their previous matches and were under pressure after managing just two points from their first three outings. The unbeaten opening stand provided the foundation for a strong first-innings total and gave the hosts a genuine opportunity to push for an outright victory. With five wickets remaining and a 106-run lead, J&K will look to extend their advantage further on the final day before declaring their innings and giving their bowlers enough time to dismiss Pondicherry. The hosts will be hoping that their bowlers can build on Sunil Kumars six-wicket haul from the first innings and complete a much-needed victory in their fourth match of the season.
Police football team wins Titans Gold Cup night football tournament in Anantnag
Anantnag, Nov 4:The final match of the Titans Gold Cup Edition-2 was played on Wednesday at the Sports Stadium, Anantnag, between Jammu and Kashmir Police Football Team and Siddiqui FC Anantnag amid great enthusiasm and sporting fervour. A total of 35 leading football teams participated in the tournament, making it an exciting sporting event marked by enthusiastic participation and competitive performances. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, as per an official statement, witnessed the final match and later felicitated the winning and runners-up team by presenting the trophy. Awards among the players, in recognition of their outstanding performances were also distributed. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner emphasised that sports play a vital role in the overall development of personality by promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, discipline, teamwork and a spirit of healthy competition. He urged the youth to actively engage in sports and other physical activities to maintain a healthy lifestyle and channel their energy towards constructive pursuits. The Deputy Commissioner also highlighted various measures taken under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyaan across District and stated that a slew of initiatives have been rolled out across the district to combat the drug menace and generate awareness among the masses, particularly the youth. He further added that IPD services at the Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) are now fully functional, strengthening addiction treatment and rehabilitation facilities in the district. The Deputy Commissioner stated that individuals affected by drug addiction should not be stigmatized but instead supported and encouraged to overcome addiction and reintegrate into society. However, he made it clear that a strict approach is adopted against those involved in drug peddling, with no leniency towards drug traffickers. The Deputy Commissioner also urged sportspersons to become ambassadors of the anti-drug campaign and play an active role in spreading awareness against drug abuse, while calling upon the youth to stay away from drugs and embrace sports and other positive activities. He also appreciated all stakeholders for successfully conducting the tournament, stating that such sporting events provide an excellent platform for young and aspiring players to showcase their talent and enhance their skills. The Deputy Commissioner expressed hope that more tournaments of this nature would be organised in the future to further promote a sporting culture in the district. A large number of sports enthusiasts and football lovers were present at the stadium to witness the thrilling final match and cheer for the participating teams. The Deputy Commissioner also appreciated all stakeholders for successfully organising the tournament.
Rahul Sahai calls on LG Manoj Sinha, discusses trade, industry
Jammu, Nov 4:Rahul Sahai, Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu Chapter, on Wednesday called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on the third day of the Darbar Move to Jammu. During the meeting, Sahai discussed key issues concerning trade and industry in Jammu, including the impact of geopolitical developments on supply chains, input costs and business sentiment. He also briefed the Lieutenant Governor on the ICCs activities and initiatives aimed at strengthening industry engagement and promoting entrepreneurship in the region. As a mark of respect, Sahai presented an idol of Shri Panchmukhi Hanuman Ji to the Lieutenant Governor, conveying his wishes for strength, wisdom and success in public service. He also extended advance Diwali and festive greetings to the Lieutenant Governor and his family, wishing them happiness, peace and prosperity.
Kashmirs IVF sector eyes global best practices at ASRM annual meeting
Srinagar, Nov 4:Kashmir-based fertility specialist Dr Syed Sajjad Hussain represented India at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) 2026 Annual Meeting held in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. Dr Hussain, Managing Director of MED AGE IVF Centre, Srinagar, and National Convenor of the Indian Fertility Societys (IFS) Special Interest Group, participated in the international conference as part of the Indian medical delegation. The annual meeting brought together fertility specialists, researchers and medical professionals from across the world to discuss emerging developments in in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), reproductive medicine, infertility treatment and advanced fertility technologies. During the conference, Dr Hussain interacted with international experts, including Professor Alexander Quass, besides members of the global and Indian medical fraternity. His participation provided an opportunity to exchange scientific knowledge, explore emerging technologies and gain insights into advances that could contribute to improving fertility treatment and services in J&K. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Hussain said international scientific platforms such as ASRM offered valuable opportunities for learning, professional collaboration and the exchange of ideas. It is a matter of pride to participate in such a prestigious global event as part of the Indian medical delegation. My aim is to bring the benefits of the latest developments in reproductive medicine to the people of Kashmir, he said. Dr Hussain has been associated with reproductive medicine through his clinical practice, academic engagement and role in the Indian Fertility Society. His participation at ASRM 2026 also highlights the presence of medical professionals from Jammu and Kashmir at international scientific forums. He is the Managing Director of MED AGE IVF Centre, Srinagar, and National Convenor of the IFS Special Interest Group, with experience in IVF, clinical embryology and reproductive medicine.
SKTMCCF seeks special OTS policy for J&Ks stressed business accounts
Srinagar, Nov 4:The Shahre Khass Traders, Manufacturers Coordination Committee and Federation (SKTMCCF) has urged the J&K Bank to introduce a special and inclusive One-Time Settlement (OTS) policy for Non-Performing Asset (NPA) accounts in Jammu and Kashmir, saying a fair settlement framework is essential for reviving struggling businesses and protecting livelihoods. In a statement, SKTMCCF President Imtiyaz Ahmad Malik said the proposed policy should follow the State Bank of India (SBI) settlement model to ensure uniformity and uphold the principle of One India, One Formula. He said businesses in Jammu and Kashmir had faced prolonged economic hardships over the past several decades and deserved special revival measures to help them recover from financial distress. The committee called for special consideration for genuine business borrowers whose accounts had remained operational for years and who had regularly serviced interest obligations but eventually turned into NPAs due to circumstances beyond their control. It also sought flexible repayment timelines based on the outstanding loan amount, particularly for accounts involving dues of up to Rs 50 crore, arguing that borrowers should be given realistic opportunities to settle their liabilities. The SKTMCCF further demanded priority consideration for accounts that have remained classified as NPAs for more than seven years, saying long-pending cases required a practical settlement mechanism. The committee also listed failed OTS cases among the issues requiring attention, although it did not specify the relief or settlement terms proposed for such accounts. Malik said a fair, practical and compassionate OTS framework would help distressed traders and manufacturers settle outstanding liabilities, restart economic activity and safeguard employment. He said the revival of struggling business units would also contribute to strengthening Jammu and Kashmirs overall economy.
A new employment economy: Why J&K needs to bet on GCCs
Srinagar, Nov 4:With thousands of educated young people in Jammu and Kashmir struggling to find suitable employment, Global Capability Centres (GCCs) could open a new avenue for jobs, investment and economic growth in the Union Territory. The possibility of attracting multinational companies to establish their business operations in J&K came into focus during the two-day J&K GCC Summit held at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Jammu, on October 9 and 10. The summit brought together government officials, industry leaders, investors and academic experts to explore how Jammu and Kashmir could become a destination for companies looking to establish their global operations outside major cities such as Bengaluru and Hyderabad. The government has also constituted an apex committee, headed by NIIT Chairman Rajendra Singh Pawar, to work towards attracting GCC investments to the Union Territory. But what exactly are GCCs, how do they work, and why does J&K need a separate policy to attract them? What are Global Capability Centres? Simply put, a Global Capability Centre is an office established by a multinational company in another country to manage some of its important business operations. For example, a bank headquartered in London may establish a centre in India to handle its accounting, technology, customer services and financial operations. Similarly, a technology company may establish a centre to develop software, manage data, work on artificial intelligence or provide technical support to its international operations. Unlike ordinary outsourcing, where a company hires another firm to perform a particular job, a GCC is owned and controlled by the multinational company itself. Employees working in the centre are part of the companys wider global workforce. Over the years, these centres have moved beyond routine office work. They now undertake specialised activities, including software development, financial management, cybersecurity, research, data analysis and technology innovation. How can they benefit J&K? For J&K, the biggest attraction is employment. The Union Territory has thousands of educated graduates in engineering, commerce, management, science and other disciplines. However, opportunities in specialised private-sector jobs remain limited, forcing many young people to move outside the region. GCCs could provide these graduates with opportunities to work for international companies while remaining in Jammu and Kashmir. The centres could employ software engineers, accountants, financial analysts, customer support executives, data specialists and other professionals. They could also create jobs for people with different educational backgrounds through administrative, human resource and business support functions. Their presence would also benefit other businesses. More offices and employees would generate demand for rented accommodation, transport, restaurants, hotels, commercial buildings and other services. Indias growing GCC industry India has become one of the worlds leading destinations for GCCs because of its educated workforce, technology infrastructure and comparatively lower operating costs. According to industry estimates cited in the Nasscom-Zinnov India GCC Landscape FY26 report, the country has 2,117 GCCs employing around 2.36 million people and generating approximately $98.4 billion in revenue. Bengaluru and Hyderabad have emerged as major centres. Bengaluru hosts around 1,080 GCCs employing more than six lakh people, while Hyderabad has approximately 515 centres employing over three lakh people. Their success has also encouraged other states to introduce dedicated policies offering incentives, office infrastructure and support for companies willing to establish operations. J&K is yet to have a dedicated GCC policy. Industry believes Kashmir has the talent Faizan Kanth, Managing Director and CEO of SSGSERV, a global GCC and managed-services company operating in Bengaluru, Birmingham, Dubai and Manila, believes Kashmir has the talent required to become part of the global industry. The company already has an operational centre in Srinagar and has signed an MoU to create 500 jobs by mid-2028, with plans to expand employment to 1,500 across GCC and managed-services operations. In eleven years of building GCCs for global enterprises, one lesson holds: talent decides where the work goes. The talent we have assessed in Kashmir stands with the best we have hired anywhere. What it lacks is not ability. It is access, Kanth said. He believes government policy will determine whether more companies are willing to establish operations in the region. Global companies do not choose a city; they choose a policy. Bengaluru and Hyderabad won because their governments made it easy to say yes. J&K can do the same, and industry is ready to move the day it does, he said. The challenge now is to translate the interest generated by the GCC summit into a practical policy that provides companies with ready office space, reliable internet connectivity, incentives for employing local youth and faster government approvals. For J&K, the objective should be to create an environment where multinational companies can establish operations, expand their businesses and provide meaningful employment to local graduates. The recent summit and the constitution of the apex committee have provided a beginning. The real test will be whether these initiatives lead to actual investments and jobs on the ground.
J&K Govt notifies modified feeding departments for 6 ministers
Jammu, Nov 4:J&K government on Wednesday notified the feeding departments for six ministers, partially modifying its earlier order number 1810-JK(GAD) of 2024 dated October 22, 2024. As per the order, for Ali Mohammad Sagar, who has been assigned the charge of the Revenue Department, Power Development Department, Department of Law, Justice & PA, Department of DMRRR and Election Department, the feeding department will be Power Development Department. For Sakeena Masood (Itoo), the Minister incharge of Health & Medical Education Department and Social Welfare Department, the feeding department will be Health & Medical Education Department. For Javed Ahmad Rana, who has been assigned the charge of Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumers Affairs, Tribal Affairs Department and Transport Department, the feeding department will be Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumers Affairs. For Mir Saifullah, the Minister in charge of the Planning Development and Monitoring Department, Culture Department, Youth Services & Sports Department and ARI & Training Department, the feeding department will be the Planning Development and Monitoring Department. For Shamim Firdous, who has been assigned the charge of School Education Department, Higher Education Department and Jal Shakti Department, the feeding department will be Jal Shakti Department. For Altaf Ahmad Wani, the minister in-charge Forest, Ecology and Environment Department and Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, the feeding department will be Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj.
Orchard waste burning: Smoke blankets south Kashmir villages, worsens air quality
Srinagar, Nov 4:As the apple harvest season ends and farmers begin pruning their orchards, parts of south Kashmir are once again grappling with smoke from the burning of branches and twigs, raising concerns about air pollution and its impact on people with respiratory illnesses. In the apple-growing districts of Shopian, Pulwama and Kulgam, evenings are often marked by a thick blanket of smoke rising from orchards where farmers burn pruned branches and twigs, locally used to make charcoal for winter. The practice, which has continued for decades, provides a readily available source of fuel for rural households. However, the burning of orchard waste releases smoke and particulate matter into the air, adding to pollution during the colder months when stagnant atmospheric conditions can trap pollutants close to the ground. For people with chronic respiratory conditions, the resulting deterioration in air quality can be particularly distressing. COPD patients have to bear the brunt of poor air quality caused by the burning of biomass, said Mushtaq Ahmad, a resident of south Kashmir. Ahmad said his father suffers from a pulmonary disease and that smoke from nearby orchards aggravates his condition. When the smoke spreads across the area in the evening, it becomes difficult for him to breathe comfortably, he said. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-term lung condition in which exposure to smoke and other airborne pollutants can worsen symptoms and increase the risk of respiratory complications. The issue is not new. In 2017, Tassaduq Mufti, the then coordinator of the Chief Ministers Grievance Cell, called for an immediate ban on the burning of biomass in orchards. The appeal was followed by advisories issued from time to time by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) and the Horticulture Department, urging farmers to adopt better methods of managing orchard waste. An agricultural scientist at SKUAST-K said burning orchard waste not only worsens air pollution but also destroys beneficial soil microorganisms. The scientist suggested sustainable alternatives, including integrating sheep grazing into orchards. Sheep feed on fallen leaves, while their droppings add organic matter to the soil, helping improve its fertility. The practice, the scientist said, is particularly suitable for orchards where branches are pruned at least two feet above the ground, allowing sheep to move freely beneath the trees. However, the practice has persisted, reflecting the difficulties of changing a longstanding rural habit in areas where access to alternative heating arrangements remains limited. For many households, orchard waste is not simply a disposal problem but also a source of winter fuel. The cost of alternative heating equipment, combined with concerns about electricity supply, makes the transition more difficult. Each winter, we witness erratic electricity supply. A kangri is the only way to keep ourselves warm, said Muhammad Abdullah, a resident of Kellar village in Pulwama. The kangri, a traditional portable firepot containing burning charcoal, remains a common source of warmth in Kashmir during winter.
Srinagar Jammu highway open for 2-way traffic
Ramban, Nov 4:The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) remained open for two-way traffic of light, medium and heavy vehicles on Wednesday, although vehicular movement continued to be slow at several locations between Udhampur and Banihal due to ongoing road construction, widening work and other traffic-related constraints. Traffic authorities have advised that the highway will remain open for two-way traffic on Thursday as well, subject to favourable weather and road conditions. Officials monitoring traffic regulation said hundreds of vehicles crossed the Chenani-Nashri and Banihal-Qazigund tunnels during the day. However, traffic movement remained sluggish at several stretches due to narrow road sections, ongoing construction work and occasional vehicle breakdowns. The major bottlenecks included a 3040-metre single-lane, uneven road stretch at Dewal in Udhampur district and another narrow stretch between Maroog and Kishtwari Pather in Ramban district. Breakdowns of vehicles between Nachlana and Ramsoo also affected the smooth movement of traffic. The movement of nomadic livestock herds along narrow highway stretches, particularly between Maroog and Kishtwari Pather, was also likely to cause traffic disruptions. Commuters have been advised to maintain lane discipline and strictly avoid overtaking. Meanwhile, in view of ongoing highway widening work on the Digdol-Khooni nullah stretch, the movement of Kashmir-bound oil and gas tankers will remain restricted during daytime hours from 7 am to 7 pm. As vehicles carrying inflammable materials are not permitted to pass through the highway tunnels, Kashmir-bound oil and gas tankers will be allowed to proceed beyond Chenani only between 5 pm and 5 am. Tanker operators have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly. Transporters carrying fresh perishable goods and livestock have also been directed to ensure that their vehicles are loaded strictly in accordance with the advisories issued by the Traffic Police Headquarters. Passengers and light motor vehicle operators have been advised to undertake their journeys during daylight hours and avoid night travel in view of the possibility of shooting stones and landslides, movement of nomadic herds and ongoing construction work along the Ramban-Banihal highway stretch. Heavy vehicle operators have been directed to avoid overloading, ensure proper vehicle fitness and carry sufficient fuel before commencing their journeys. Commuters have also been advised to avoid unnecessary halts between Ramban and Banihal, particularly near landslide- and shooting-stone-prone locations.
NCs own MP, MLAs exposing Omar govts incompetence: Tarun Chugh
Jammu, Nov 4: BJP national headquarters in-charge and Rajya Sabha MP Tarun Chugh on Wednesday, while reacting to National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdis resignation, said that even MPs and MLAs from Omar Abdullahs own party were currently questioning his governments competence and experience. This growing dissent within the National Conference is a clear reflection of the failure of Omar Abdullahs leadership, Chugh said, in a statement issued to press from New Delhi. He said the BJP consistently maintained that the Omar Abdullah government failed to deliver on its promises, particularly on providing employment opportunities to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. The commitments made to the people during the elections remain unfulfilled, with the government failing to take concrete steps towards implementing its manifesto, Chugh alleged. He stated, The most telling aspect of the situation is that the governments failures are now being exposed not merely by the opposition but by leaders from within the National Conference itself. When a partys own MPs and MLAs begin questioning the competence and functioning of their government, it reflects the deepening crisis of leadership within the party. Chugh further said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had voted for the National Conference with expectations of change, employment and development. However, the Omar Abdullah government failed to live up to those expectations, he said. The people deserve answers on when the promises made in the partys election manifesto will finally be fulfilled, Chugh said.
As Ruhullah walks out, NC cries 'Operation Lotus
Srinagar, Nov 4:The National Conference on Wednesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of having succeeded in executing its Operation Lotus in Kashmir by pushing Srinagar Lok Sabha MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi out of the party, a day after he announced his resignation from the NC and the Lok Sabha. At a press conference at the party headquarters, NC MLA and party leader Salman Sagar, accompanied by Banihal MLA Sajjad Shaheen, launched a sharp attack on Ruhullah, questioning his decision to quit and alleging that his departure had served the BJPs political interests. Sagar said the development was unfortunate as Ruhullah had been elected to Parliament on the NC ticket. With a heavy heart, not with joy, because he was an MP elected on our National Conference ticket, I say that the BJP has succeeded in pushing Aga Ruhullah out, Sagar said. He alleged that Ruhullah had aligned himself with forces that had attempted to weaken the National Conference over several decades. Referring to the political developments since 2018, Sagar said the partys leadership had faced arrests and detention, including under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Particularly over the last five to eight years, since 2018, our leadership was jailed; senior leaders were detained under PSA, including former chief ministers and ministers. Those imprisoned were punished simply for representing the people, he said. Drawing a parallel with the departure of former NC leaders Devender Singh Rana and Surjit Singh Slathia, who later joined the BJP, Sagar alleged that the BJP had earlier succeeded in weakening the NCs political base in Jammu and had now managed to do so in Kashmir. Rana is no longer in this world, and Slathia is a BJP MLA. They succeeded there, and now they have succeeded in pulling Aga Sahib out. Operation Lotus, which targets MPs across the country to break parties, has now been executed in Kashmir, he said. Today, with Aga Sahibs assistance, the BJPs agenda has been fulfilled. It is deeply unfortunate for the National Conference and the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he added. Sagar questioned the circumstances behind Ruhullahs resignation, suggesting that there were undisclosed reasons behind his decision. I dont know; Aga Sahib can answer that himself in the future, and we will certainly ask. There is definitely something behind the curtain, he said, adding that Ruhullah had picked up an excuse to distance himself from the party. 50-MLA mandate should have been used Questioning why Ruhullah chose to leave instead of taking up his grievances within the organisation, Sagar said the strength of the elected government and the partys legislators offered a stronger platform to fight political battles. He said the NC had secured a mandate of 50 MLAs and argued that such collective strength should have been used to address the issues raised by Ruhullah. People keep talking about the mandate. The National Conference has a mandate of 50 MLAs. That mandate should have been used to fight these battles. We should have fought together. Is one MP or former MP a stronger force, or is the strength of 50 MLAs greater? Is an elected government not a stronger force? Whatever difficulties there were, they should have been confronted from within, Sagar said. He questioned how many times Ruhullah had approached party legislators to seek their support or urged them to stand together on the issues he had raised. How many times did you ask the honourable MLAs not to leave and to stand with you? Did you ever approach the leadership? How many times did you speak against the leadership? Was any show-cause notice issued to you? Was any explanation sought from you? Our only concern was that you should not leave the party, he said. Sagar also referred to Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs support for Ruhullah during the 2024 parliamentary elections, saying the party had provided him a safe constituency to contest from despite the availability of other potential candidates. He questioned why Ruhullah had not mobilised party legislators or sought their participation in protests and political campaigns on the issues he was now raising publicly. The NC MLA said the party was not dependent on any individual and maintained that neither the arrival nor departure of one leader could destabilise it. Omar Abdullah and the National Conference are not so fragile that the arrival or departure of one person will shake us. Delhi has been trying to weaken us since 1947, not just 1953, he said. Questions Ruhullahs stand on BJP, PDP Sagar also questioned Ruhullahs criticism of the NC leadership while, according to him, avoiding direct criticism of the BJP and the PDP. Asked about Ruhullahs assertion that he would not allow Delhis agenda to operate in Jammu and Kashmir, Sagar said the PDP had facilitated the BJPs entry into the government when the two parties formed a coalition in the erstwhile state. Curiously, he never mentions the PDP or the BJP. Yesterdays resignation was part of a planned script. When the appropriate time comes, the reasons behind it will be laid bare before the public, he said. Sagar said the people of Kashmir had a clear position against any political alliance with the BJP and warned that anyone aligning with the party would eventually face public rejection. Whether it is an MLA, an MP, or myself, anyone who aligns with the BJP will meet the same fate as those who spent 50 years in politics, served as chief ministers, and yet couldnt win a single seat later, he said. The people of Kashmir have a crystal-clear stance: no alliance with the BJP. Our MLAs know the pulse of the people. While some may have temporary compulsions, the truth will emerge in due time, he added. Raises issue of recorded conversations Asked about Ruhullahs claim that he had recorded conversations with NC president Farooq Abdullah and vice-president Omar Abdullah after the abrogation of Article 370, Sagar questioned the propriety of secretly recording private conversations with party leadership. If an MP is secretly recording private conversations with his party president and vice-president, that speaks volumes about his mindset. I dont need to say more, he said. Sagar also defended the partys political conduct, saying the NC leadership had instructed its workers and leaders not to resort to personal attacks or unparliamentary language despite the criticism directed at it. Politics requires decency. We could also unleash trolls or use unparliamentary language, but our leadership has strictly instructed us not to stoop to that level. That is not our political culture, he said. Shaheen accuses Ruhullah of betraying voters Banihal MLA Sajjad Shaheen accused Ruhullah of betraying not only the National Conference but also the electorate that had voted for him. He has betrayed us. I do not hesitate to say candidly: Ruhullah Sahib has not only betrayed the party, he has also betrayed his electors and the people of his constituency, Shaheen said. Shaheen also condemned the language used by Ruhullah during his Budgam address and questioned his political performance, alleging that he had failed to deliver as an MLA, minister and now as a Member of Parliament. He described Ruhullahs performance in Parliament as dismal and questioned his record in raising issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir. Referring to the Tufail Mattoo case, Shaheen questioned Ruhullahs decision to invoke the issue after 16 years, asking why it was being raised at this juncture. The two NC legislators also questioned the emergence of multiple political parties in Kashmir, alleging that the proliferation of political outfits could be part of an organised attempt to divide people in Jammu and Kashmir. Why is it that in Kashmir, a new party sprouts at every corner? Shaheen asked. NC plays down resentment over Cabinet expansion The press conference also saw questions about resentment among several NC legislators following the recent expansion of the Council of Ministers. Sagar said the party was monitoring the developments but maintained that the legislators remained united and that any differences would be resolved through internal discussions. They are our brothers and colleagues. Within a day or two, you will see all minor differences sorted out through the normal process. A few people who tried to cause disruption will not succeed, he said. He specifically named Mubarak Gul, Majeed Sahib, Peerzada Sahib and Farooq Shah, asserting that they would not leave the National Conference. Yes, agencies are working, but it wont impact our government, Sagar said, while reiterating that Ruhullahs exit had aided what he described as the BJPs Operation Lotus. Ruhullah announced his decision to quit the NC and resign from the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat at a public gathering in Budgam on Tuesday, ending his nearly 24-year association with the party. He accused the NC leadership of betraying the public mandate and failing to honour commitments on the restoration of Article 370, protection of constitutional rights, reservation and the release of prisoners. He maintained that his decision was based on principles rather than personal grievances and indicated that he wanted to bring together young people to build a new political platform. The BJPs alleged role in Ruhullahs exit, as claimed by the NC, remains an allegation. BJP leader Ram Madhav had earlier described the Budgam gathering as being held with the blessings of our people, while also saying the NC was visibly divided.
Power paradox: Imports rise, unscheduled cuts persist
Srinagar, Nov 4:Kashmir is heading into the peak winter season amid rising electricity demand, declining hydropower generation and complaints of unscheduled power cuts, with residents questioning the implementation of the officially announced curtailment schedule. A senior official of the Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL) told Greater Kashmir that the valley's peak electricity demand during this period is around 1,500 megawatts (MW), putting considerable pressure on the distribution network as hydropower generation declines with falling water levels in rivers. Official power-sector data accessed by Greater Kashmir shows that the total electricity load of Jammu and Kashmir stood at 2,318 MW on November 3, with Kashmir accounting for 1,426 MW and Jammu 893 MW. Power imports were recorded at approximately 1,950 MW. The data recorded total state-sector generation at 373 MW, while central-sector generation was shown at 226 MW in the aggregate generation summary. The state-sector generation represents electricity produced by J&K-owned projects across the Union Territory, including major hydropower stations in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions. Among the major contributors to state-sector generation was Baglihar-I, which was generating 298 MW at the time of the recorded data. Other contributions came from projects across the two divisions and independent power producers. The central-sector generation includes output from major NHPC-operated projects such as Uri-I, Uri-II, Salal, Dulhasti, Kishanganga and Sewa-II. The figures underline Jammu and Kashmir's substantial dependence on electricity procured from outside to meet its growing requirements, particularly during winter. The seasonal decline in hydropower generation has emerged as a major concern ahead of the peak winter months. A senior official said generation from J&K-owned hydropower projects had been fluctuating between 250 MW and 280 MW during the past week, significantly lower than the output recorded during periods of higher water availability. During the past week, the average power generation from the local generation projects was fluctuating from 250-280 or 270-300 MW, an official said. The official attributed the decline primarily to reduced water levels in rivers during winter, which affect the generation capacity of hydroelectric projects. Jammu and Kashmir has an installed hydropower capacity of approximately 3,540 MW across 31 operational projects. Of this, around 1,197 MW belongs to the state sector, 2,250 MW to the central sector and 92.75 MW is operated by independent power producers. Despite this installed capacity, actual generation varies considerably depending on water availability and seasonal conditions. The Union Territory continues to depend on power procured through central allocations and other arrangements to bridge the gap between demand and local generation. To address the expected winter demand, the Ministry of Power is allocating an additional 330 MW from the central pool to Jammu and Kashmir from December 1, 2026, to February 2027. An official said the additional allocation would help compensate for the seasonal decline in hydropower generation and provide some relief during the peak winter period. However, the additional allocation is unlikely to eliminate the pressure on the distribution network, particularly during morning and evening peak hours when household consumption increases. Meanwhile, KPDCL has implemented a revised Load Curtailment Plan (LCP) across Kashmir from October 17, with the duration of scheduled outages linked to the Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses of individual feeders. Under the revised arrangement, areas falling in the highest-loss category, with AT&C losses above 65 percent, are scheduled to face eight hours of power cuts daily. Feeders with losses between 40.5 and 65 percent have been assigned six hours of daily curtailment, while areas with losses between 15 and 40.5 percent will face three hours of scheduled cuts. Areas with AT&C losses between zero and 15 percent have been assigned only 30 minutes of daily curtailment. The revised arrangement also provides for expanded round-the-clock electricity supply. Eighty-five additional feeders have been brought under the 24-hour supply category, taking the total number of such feeders to 214. The feeder-wise schedule covers Srinagar and other districts of Kashmir, with individual timings prescribed for different receiving stations and distribution areas. According to the published schedule, metered, cabled and designated round-the-clock feeders in Srinagar city are scheduled to face between 30 minutes and three hours of daily curtailment. Non-cabled and non-metered feeders in several rural areas have been assigned six to eight hours of daily cuts. Essential feeders supplying hospitals, medical institutions and water supply installations have been provided separate arrangements, while certain industrial feeders have been exempted from scheduled curtailment. Despite the announced schedule, residents across Kashmir continue to complain of frequent and prolonged unscheduled power cuts, alleging that electricity is being snapped beyond the prescribed timings. Residents say the erratic supply has disrupted household activities, affected students preparing for examinations and created difficulties for businesses and other establishments. In Srinagar and Ganderbal, residents recently complained of eight to ten hours of daily power outages across several areas, including Lar, Wayil, Kangan and Gund. Meanwhile, KPDCL officials have attributed load-shedding and grid curtailments to the widening gap between electricity demand and available supply, besides the need to prevent overloading at key receiving stations during peak hours. The complaints, however, have raised questions about the implementation of the published schedule and the accountability of distribution authorities. Only 23.81 percent of identified hydropower potential harnessed The power situation also brings into focus the untapped hydropower potential of Jammu and Kashmir. According to the Economic Survey 2025-26, the Union Territory has an estimated hydropower potential of 14,867 MW. However, only 3,540.15 MW, or 23.81 per cent, has been harnessed so far.
MD NHM reviews operational status of online single window system
Srinagar, Nov 4:In a major push toward streamlining regulatory processes and reducing compliance burdens for the healthcare sector, a review meeting was held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Athar Amir UlShafi Khan, Mission Director, National Health Mission, J&K, at the Old Secretariat, Srinagar. The meeting, as per an official statement, featured a comprehensive operational review and live demonstration of the Single Window Clearance (SWC) Portal. The meeting was attended by the Nodal Officer, Single Window System and Director, Industries & Commerce Department, Jammu, along with their technical team; Officers from the Health and Medical Education Department, J&K; Director Health Services Jammu and Kashmir, Senior Director (IT) from NIC, J&K; Chief Medical Officers from Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Jammu, and Rajouri, State M&E Officer, NHM, J&K, with outstation officers joining via virtual mode.
Apni Party expresses condolences over demise of former MLC Ghulam Qadir Pardesi
Srinagar, Nov 4: Apni Party leaders have expressed their condolences over the demise of senior National Conference leader and former Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), Sheikh GhulamQadirPardesi, who was also the father of LalChowk MLA Ahsan Pardesi. In their condolence messages issued, the senior party leaders, as per a party statement issued, expressed solidarity with the bereaved family and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul. Besides Party President Syed Mohammad AltafBukhari, other prominent party leaders who expressed their condolences over the demise of Sheikh GhulamQadirPardesi include Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir, Chairman PAC Mohammad Dilawar Mir, Vice President Javaid Mustafa Mir, General Secretary Rafi Ahmad Mir, Additional General Secretary Hilal Ahmad Shah, Chief Coordinator & District President Kulgam Abdul MajeedPadder, Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Media Advisor & Media Panelist Farooq Andrabi, State Spokesperson & State Youth President YawarDilawar Mir, Spokesperson IshratBhat, Womens Wing President DilshadShaheen, District President Kupwara Raja Manzoor Khan, District President Srinagar Mohammad Shafi Mir, District President BaramullaShabir Ahmad Shah, District President BandiporaShafatKazmi, District President Anantnag Mufti Sarwar, District President Budgam Advocate Owais Ashraf Shah, District President Pulwama Dr Samiullah, District President Shopian Advocate GowherWani, District President GanderbalJavaid Mir, Provincial Secretary and former Chairman DDC Srinagar Malik Aftab, and others.
LoP Sunil Sharma should explain Ram Madhav's statement on Ruhullah: DyCM
Jammu, Nov 4:Deputy Chief Minister SurinderChoudhary on Wednesday asked the BharatiyaJanata Party (BJP) and the leader of Opposition in J&K Legislative Assembly Sunil Sharma, in particular, to explain the statement of their national vice president Ram Madhav regarding NC MP Aga Syed Ruhullahs rally. After the resignation of NC MP on November 3, it was BJP leader Ram Madhav who had stated that those attending Ruhullahs rally were their (BJP) people. It was BJP itself - their leader Ram Madhav hinted that Ruhullah was their man. Im not saying it. So now you should ask BJP and LOP Sunil Sharma to explain what they actually meant, Choudhary said, while responding to media queries on the sidelines of a government event, regarding dissent within the National Conference and Ruhullahs resignation. To us, Aga Ruhullah Sahib is a respectable person. But he has been misled by BJP. BJP, itself, has hinted vis-a-vis its links with him (Ruhullah), Deputy Chief Minister said. On November 3, Ram Madhav, in a presser in Jammu, had dropped mixed signals with his observation on Ruhullah's rally in Budgam. I will not comment on their (NCs) internal matter, but the National Conference has disintegrated itself today in front of everyone. Unqualified and heartfelt blessings of our people have always been there. That's why (Age Syed) Ruhullah Sahib is holding another rally (in Srinagar). However, I reiterate that we have no role in NCs internal affairs, BJP national vice president had said. Earlier on November 3, the Deputy Chief Minister had described NC MPs resignation as his personal decision. Aga Syed Ruhullah is a tall leader. I cannot comment on what he does. He has made his decision; now it will be for people to make their choice, he had said. As far as the National Conference was concerned, it always believed in consultations to resolve differences, Choudhary asserted, in response to a query about open rebellion within NC post cabinet expansion.
Former MLC Sheikh Ghulam Qadir Pardesi passes away
Srinagar, Nov 4: Senior National Conference leader and former MLC Haji Sheikh Ghulam Qadir Pardesi passed away after a brief spell of illness on Tuesday. Hundreds of people from different walks of life participated in his Nimaz-e-Jinaza. The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah and Vice President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed profound shock and grief over the demise of Haji Sheikh Ghulam Qadir Pardesi. They extended their heartfelt condolences to all the bereaved family members, particularly MLA Lal Chowk Ahsan Pardesi and prayed for eternal peace and a place for the departed soul in Jannat. Paying rich tributes to the deceased, Dr Farooq and Omar Abdullah said that Sheikh Ghulam Qadir Pardesi's unwavering loyalty, dedication and services to the party would always be remembered. They also acknowledged his valuable contributions towards public welfare and his role in political and social affairs. They further stated that the deceased proved his mettle by serving the state in tumultuous times as Deputy Commissioner and later as Financial Commissioner and held several other key administrative positions, discharging his responsibilities with utmost dedication, integrity and efficiency. Party General Secretary and Cabinet Minister Haji Ali Mohammad Sagar, Assembly Speaker Advocate Abdul Rahim Rather, Additional General Secretary and Rajya Sabha Member Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan, Additional General Secretary Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, Party Treasurer and Rajya Sabha Member Shammi Oberoi, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, party MPs Mian Altaf Ahmad, Sajjad Kichloo and Haji Haneefia Jan, Cabinet Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Rana, Javed Ahmad Dar, Shameema Firdous, Mir Saifullah, Altaf Ahmad Wani and other leaders also expressed their condolences. Those who attended the Nimaz-e-Jinaza included Provincial President Kashmir Advocate Showkat Ahmad Mir, MLAs Haji Mubarak Gul, Ali Mohammad Dar, Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, Qaiser Jamsheed Lone, Hasnain Masoodi, Saifuddin Bhat, Javid Beigh, Dr Bashir Veeri, Javid Mirchal, Political Advisor to the Chief Minister Mudassar Shahmiri, State Spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar, Provincial Secretary Syed Tauqeer, District President Srinagar Peer Afaq, Youth Wing President Mir Mushtaq, Advocate Zahir Abdullah, Advocate Zamir Abdullah, other party functionaries and a large number of local residents. Meanwhile, patron of Jamait Hamdani Moulana Riyaz Hamdani and chief spokesperson Mir GM Saqi have condoled the demise and expressed sympathies with the bereaved family.
2 killed as fire reduces 80 makeshift shelters to ashes at Bemina
Srinagar, Nov 4:Two persons were killed and dozens of families were left homeless after a massive overnight fire engulfed a cluster of makeshift shelters at Durbal in Bemina reducing around 80 temporary structures to ashes. According to officials, fire broke out around 12:23 am and rapidly spread through the tarpaulin-and-wood shelters, most of which were occupied by non-local labourers engaged in scrap collection and other menial jobs. An empty poultry farm and a tipper also came under the impact of the fire. Residents said towering flames and thick plumes of smoke were visible from a distance as people ran for safety, carrying children to safer places while trying desperately to salvage whatever they could. They said by the time firefighters reached the spot, the entire settlement had already been engulfed in flames. An official of the Fire and Emergency Services said fire tenders from JVC and Rawalpora, along with additional reinforcements from the F&ES Headquarters Batamaloo, were rushed to the spot to contain the blaze. The fire involved around 80 temporary shelters made of tarpaulin and wood. After the blaze was brought under control, two bodies were recovered from the debris, the official said. The deceased were identified as Mohammad Noor Alam (27) and Al Ameen (16), both working as scrap collectors. Officials said the bodies were handed over to police after completion of forensic procedures, while the cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. The fire reduced the settlement to rubble, leaving many families with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. We have lost everything. Our savings, clothes for the children, household items, everything has turned to ashes. This makeshift shelter was our home and now nothing is left, said one survivor. Another grieving family member said one of the deceased was the sole breadwinner of the family. He was the only earning member. We have lost him and we have lost everything else too. We don't know how we will survive now, the family member said. Several affected families appealed to the district administration to provide immediate relief, including temporary shelter, food, clothing, and financial assistance, saying they had nowhere to go after the devastating fire. Officials said the exact cause of the blaze would be known only after completion of the investigation.
Sopore Bypass-bridge reopens after repair work, commuters heave a sigh of relief
Sopore, Nov 4:Bringing much-needed relief to thousands of commuters, the vital Sopore Bypass Bridge was reopened to vehicular traffic on Wednesday following the completion of major repair work undertaken by the concerned authorities. The reopening of the bridge has ended the inconvenience faced by commuters, transporters and fruit growers during the temporary closure, which had disrupted the usual traffic movement and forced vehicles to take alternative routes through the main town, resulting in increased traffic pressure. The repair work was initiated after the bridge developed significant potholes and suffered damage, prompting the District Administration Baramulla to order its temporary closure from October 22 to facilitate necessary repairs and ensure the safety of commuters. The reopening was made possible through the coordinated efforts of the Civil Administration, Sopore Police, Traffic Police and Municipal Council Sopore, which remained actively involved in managing traffic diversions and regulating vehicular movement throughout the repair period. The concerned departments deserve appreciation for their effective coordination, timely arrangements and commitment to public convenience. Despite the challenges posed by the closure, the authorities worked collectively to minimise inconvenience and maintain traffic discipline across the town. Following the reopening of the Bypass Bridge, the one-way traffic system has been reintroduced within the town to ensure smooth traffic movement and prevent congestion. The reopening of the bridge is expected to restore smoother connectivity between Sopore and several adjoining areas, including Kupwara, Baramulla, Zaingair, Rafiabad and Bandipora. It will also provide significant relief to transporters, daily commuters, traders and apple growers who depend heavily on this important road link. Meanwhile, the authorities have urged commuters and transporters to strictly follow traffic regulations and cooperate with traffic personnel to ensure smooth and hassle-free movement. People have also been advised to maintain lane discipline and avoid unnecessary congestion near the bridge and adjoining roads. With the reopening of the bypass, normal traffic movement is expected to gradually resume, bringing relief to the people of Sopore and neighbouring areas.
Animal Rescue Kashmir flags functioning of Animal Welfare Board
Srinagar, Nov 4: Animal Rescue Kashmir has sought the intervention of the Animal Husbandry Department over the non-functioning of the Animal Welfare Board, Kashmir, in addition to a series of concerns regarding facilities and services at the Central Veterinary Hospital (CVH), Maisuma. In a letter submitted to the Director, Animal Welfare, on November 3, the NGO has sought urgent action on a number of issues affecting the treatment and care of animals at the hospital. The issues range from the absence of meetings of the Animal Welfare Board to gaps in hospital facilities. Alarm has also been sounded over the lack of emergency services at Kashmirs only Central Veterinary Hospital. The NGO said that despite the constitution of the Animal Welfare Board a few months ago, ot a single meeting has been convened so far. It is no wonder that no substantial work has commenced to date. Being a member of the Board and State Representative of the Animal Welfare Society, I sincerely seek your intervention and support in ensuring that the Board becomes functional, the letter states. Flagging the need for the Board to take up pressing animal welfare concerns, the NGO said these include animal cruelty, unregulated sale of animals by breeders, and abandonment of pets. It has requested that egular meetings be convened at the earliest so that these matters can be addressed through the statutory body. The NGO has also highlighted several concerns at CVH Maisuma, including the non-provision of diagnostic reports to animal owners. Patients are presently not provided copies of their X-rays or USG reports. We request that copies be provided to animal owners or, at the very least, they be permitted to photograph the reports and images for future reference and continuity of treatment, the letter states. Raising concerns over the safety of cats brought to the hospital, the NGO said, Over the years, hundreds of cats have reportedly escaped from the hospital, particularly due to fear and anxiety. It sought enclosed examination cabins or closed-door facilities in the OPD to prevent such incidents. The letter also points out that cats are often shaved in an open area outside the USG section before examinations. Seeking a separate enclosed facility for the procedure, it states that this would minimise the risk of animals escaping. Another concern raised is the prolonged vacancy of the Medical Superintendent's post at CVH Maisuma. The post of Medical Superintendent at CVH Maisuma has remained vacant for a considerable period. We request that the position be filled at the earliest, the letter states. The NGO also sought better arrangements for emergency and holiday services, pointing out that a doctor should be available on call during late and odd hours, while doctors and paramedical staff should be available on Sundays and public holidays to attend to emergencies. It further flagged the hospital's lunch-hour arrangements, stating that patients currently wait from 1 pm to 2 pm while staff takes lunch. This causes considerable distress to animals, particularly those that are critically ill. We request that lunch breaks be staggered so that hospital services continue uninterrupted, the letter states. Animal Rescue Kashmir said the letter had been submitted to the Director, Animal Welfare, and that the Joint Director (JD), Animal Welfare, had assured immediate redressal of the issues raised. The NGO said it remained committed to working alongside the department to strengthen animal welfare services and improve veterinary care across Kashmir.
PHC Sheeri without ambulance for months, patients face hardship
Baramulla, Nov 4:Residents of Sheeri, Narwav and adjoining areas have expressed concern over the prolonged absence of an ambulance at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Sheeri, saying that the shortage is causing considerable hardship to patients, particularly those requiring emergency medical attention. The locals said the health centre has been without an ambulance for the past several months, leaving patients and their attendants to make their own arrangements for transportation, even in critical situations. They said the absence of an emergency vehicle has become a major concern, given the PHC's importance as a primary healthcare facility for a large population spread across more than a dozen villages in the Narwav area. The health centre caters to thousands of patients and frequently receives emergency cases, including road accident victims with serious injuries. In several instances, patients suffering from severe trauma, including head injuries, require immediate referral to Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla for specialised treatment. However, residents said the lack of an ambulance forces attendants to arrange private vehicles to shift patients to the district hospital, often resulting in unnecessary delays and an additional financial burden. According to locals, arranging transportation during emergencies becomes particularly difficult at night and in cases where patients require urgent medical attention. The situation, they added, has left people dependent on private transport despite the presence of a government health facility in the area. The PHC serves a large population, but the absence of an ambulance has left patients in a difficult situation. An ambulance is a basic requirement, especially when emergency cases need to be shifted to GMC Baramulla, said Mishtaq Ahmad, a local resident. The locals have appealed to the Health Department to restore ambulance services at the facility without further delay. They have also urged local MLA Javid Hassan Baig to take up the matter with the concerned authorities and ensure that a fresh ambulance is made available at PHC Sheeri at the earliest.
Sopore, Nov 4: In a tragic incident, a young medical student from Sopore in north Kashmir was found dead in Bangladesh on Wednesday, leaving his family devastated and triggering an urgent appeal to the Government of India for immediate intervention to bring his mortal remains back home. The deceased, identified as Adnan Altaf Rather, son of Mohammad Altaf Rather and a resident of Bunapora Dangerpora, Sopore, was pursuing his MBBS degree at Eastern Medical College in Cumilla, Bangladesh, and was reportedly in the final semester of his medical studies. His untimely death has sent shockwaves through his family and the wider community in Sopore, where the news has been received with profound grief. According to reports, Adnan's body was recovered from a waterbody in BurichangUpazila of Bangladesh on Wednesday morning, nearly two days after he was reported missing. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance and subsequent death remain unclear, and the exact cause of death is yet to be established. As per the account shared by his family, Adnan had returned to Bangladesh around 15 days ago after spending some time with his family in Kashmir. His mother had also accompanied him during the return journey. The family said they lost contact with Adnan two days ago, following which they became increasingly concerned and approached his friends in Bangladesh to ascertain his whereabouts. His friends subsequently informed them that he had gone missing. The family was later informed about the recovery of his body, turning their concerns into an unbearable tragedy. Adding to the family's distress, Adnan's mother, who is presently in Bangladesh, has reportedly been hospitalised following the tragic incident and is said to be in an unstable condition. The family is facing an extremely difficult situation as they struggle to cope with the loss while simultaneously seeking assistance to bring the deceased student back to his native place. A family member, while speaking to the media, said that they had approached the authorities and sought immediate government intervention for the early repatriation of Adnan's mortal remains. The family has also contacted the Chief Minister's Office, seeking assistance and coordination with the concerned authorities to expedite the necessary formalities. Meanwhile, the bereaved family has made an earnest appeal to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to extend all possible assistance, complete the required documentation and facilitate the transportation of Adnan's body to Jammu and Kashmir at the earliest. The tragic death of the young student, who was reportedly close to completing his medical education, has left his family shattered, with relatives and well-wishers hoping for swift diplomatic and administrative intervention during this difficult hour. The circumstances surrounding Adnan Altaf's death remain unknown, and further details are awaited from the concerned authorities in Bangladesh.
Srinagar, Nov 4:Amid the commencement of the new academic session in schools across Kashmir, the authorities at the J&K Board of School Education (JKBOSE) have decided to start the free distribution of textbooks to all education zones from mid-November 2026. An official told Greater Kashmir that they had decided to start the distribution in the first week of November, but the delay in receiving the supply of textbooks of revised editions has halted the process. Last year we supplied free textbooks to schools from the last week of November and this year we had planned to start it much earlier. But we didn't receive the textbooks for a few classes whose syllabus has been revised this year, the official told Greater Kashmir . He, however, said the supply of JKBOSE textbooks was available with booksellers, except for Class 3, as the syllabus for the said class has been revised. The basic reason for the delay is that people are busy with preparations for the upcoming Diwali festival, which has caused a delay in receiving the supply of textbooks for two to three classes, the official said. He, however, said the supply of textbooks for other classes was already available, but they wanted to distribute the textbooks for all classes in one go. He said JKBOSE had printed the textbooks for both government and private schools as per the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE) Plus data. UDISE is an educational management information system under the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India. As already reported by this newspaper, this year JKBOSE has revised the syllabus of textbooks for four classes, which include Classes 1, 2 and 3, besides Class 6. We have done it as per the NEP-2020, the official added. He said that textbooks for only two classes were pending, while the rest of the supply had already been received. Also, the syllabus of other classes will be revised in the near future and implemented from the academic session 2027-2028. As already reported by this newspaper, the J&K Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has made it mandatory for private schools to adopt its textbooks for students from primary to higher classes. The orders have been issued by JKBOSE using the powers vested in it under the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education Act, 1975. Under the Act, JKBOSE holds the authority to prescribe courses of instruction, curricula, syllabi, and textbooks for various academic levels, including pre-primary, elementary, secondary, and higher secondary school examinations, reads a circular issued by JKBOSE in previous years. However, complaints are pouring in against private schools that are recommending costly textbooks from private publishers and putting an unnecessary burden on parents. This newspaper carried a series of stories regarding the issue, but the government is yet to wake up to it.
Questioning Democratic Institutions
The Congress party's relentless campaign against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls exposes a familiar pattern in its political conduct: questioning democratic institutions whenever their functioning does not suit its political narrative. A party that has spent years questioning electoral transparency and accusing others of undermining democracy now finds itself uncomfortable with an exercise designed to strengthen the very foundation of free and fair elections. For Congress, electoral reforms appear welcome only when they serve its political interests. When duplicate entries, deceased voters and questionable registrations are discussed by opposition leaders, they become legitimate concerns. But when the Election Commission undertakes a nationwide exercise to identify and correct such discrepancies, the same party raises the alarm and turns an administrative process into a political controversy. The Special Intensive Revision is not an exercise designed to benefit the BJP or any other political formation. Its fundamental objective is to ensure that electoral rolls reflect genuine voters, remove erroneous entries and protect the integrity of the democratic process. A clean electoral roll is the starting point of a credible election, and no responsible political party should oppose that objective. SIR is about cleaning electoral rolls, not deleting democracy The figures emerging from the exercise underline its scale and administrative effort. Across the states where SIR was undertaken, voters were provided between 100 and 158 days, or approximately four to five months, to complete the enumeration process. Of the country's approximately 95 crore voters, nearly 82 crore, accounting for around 88 per cent, submitted their Enumeration Forms. Approximately 13 crore entries were placed under the ASDD classification Absent, Shifted, Dead and Duplicate during the preparation of revised electoral rolls. The reported figures included approximately 2.89 crore deceased voters and 1.01 crore duplicate entries. The remaining cases involved voters who were absent, had shifted or could not be traced during the verification exercise. These numbers demand serious attention. Electoral rolls cannot remain static documents carrying the names of people who have died, permanently shifted or registered at multiple locations. Such discrepancies undermine the credibility of elections and create avoidable complications in the voting process. The exercise involved extensive field-level verification. Booth Level Officers (BLOs), along with political party functionaries, reportedly made three visits to voters' residences to collect enumeration forms and verify entries. This was not simply an administrative exercise conducted behind closed doors; it involved extensive ground-level participation. Importantly, exclusion from a draft roll does not mean that a genuine voter has permanently lost the right to vote. Eligible individuals can seek inclusion through Form 6, subject to the prescribed verification process. The Election Commission has also provided opportunities for claims and objections to ensure that eligible citizens are not unfairly excluded. Congress has particularly questioned Form 7, the statutory mechanism for seeking deletion of names from electoral rolls. However, the figures cited in the BJP's compilation indicate that approximately 29 lakh names were deleted through Form 7 across a voter population of 95 crore. These applications included submissions by political parties such as the BJP, Congress, Trinamool Congress, RJD and BSP, besides individual voters. If Form 7 is a statutory procedure, its use cannot automatically be portrayed as electoral manipulation. Political parties across the spectrum have the right to flag duplicate, deceased or otherwise ineligible entries. What matters is whether every application is examined according to law and whether affected voters receive an opportunity to respond. At the same time, more than two crore voters reportedly registered their names through Form 6, demonstrating that the exercise also facilitated the inclusion of eligible citizens. The scale of participation is equally significant. More than nine lakh polling booths were covered, with over 11 lakh government officials, including IAS and PCS officers and teachers, involved in supervising and conducting the exercise. More than 35 lakh authorised political party representatives participated, including over nine lakh BJP Booth Level Agents (BLA-2s). The total number of people involved was approximately 46 lakh. This raises an important question for Congress: when representatives of different political parties, including Congress itself, participated in the exercise, is the party indirectly questioning the integrity of millions of its own functionaries by suggesting that the entire process facilitated vote theft? If Congress has specific evidence of wrongdoing, it should place it before the Election Commission and pursue the remedies available under electoral law. Political allegations cannot substitute for evidence. Congress's double standards exposed by its own leaders The contradiction in Congress's position becomes even more apparent when one examines the statements made by its own leaders on electoral revision. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala had described SIR as useful in Kerala, referring to concerns about fake voting allegedly facilitated by the CPI(M). Congress MLA Matthew Kuzhalnadan also spoke about the removal of allegedly fake entries associated with the CPI(M), suggesting that the exercise could benefit electoral integrity. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor acknowledged the problems of duplicate registrations, deceased voters and multiple entries. He supported SIR provided it was conducted transparently and with the use of digital technology to improve electoral rolls. Similarly, Congress General Secretary Sachin Pilot has maintained that people residing illegally in the country should be removed in accordance with the law. Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal, who has repeatedly questioned electoral rolls, had himself claimed in 2015 that Delhi had approximately 11 lakh duplicate voters. These statements establish an important point: the need to identify duplicate and ineligible entries is not a BJP-created argument. It has been acknowledged by leaders across the political spectrum. In Tamil Nadu and Kerala, leaders associated with Congress-allied political formations have also described electoral revision as important for strengthening the democratic process. Why, then, does Congress change its position when the exercise is conducted on a larger scale? The party cannot demand clean electoral rolls in states where it sees political advantage and oppose the same principle elsewhere. Electoral transparency cannot be selective. A duplicate entry does not become legitimate because it benefits a particular political party, and a deceased voter's name cannot be retained merely to avoid political controversy. This selective outrage reflects a deeper political problem within Congress: its inability to distinguish between institutional reform and political competition. From the Emergency to Kashmir's 1987 elections, Congress's democratic credentials remain under scrutiny Congress's repeated attacks on the Election Commission must also be viewed against the party's own historical record. Its leadership frequently lectures the country on democratic values, but history contains several episodes that continue to raise uncomfortable questions about its commitment to democratic institutions. The 1975 Allahabad High Court judgment against then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi remains a defining moment in India's electoral history. The court invalidated her election over electoral malpractices. Instead of accepting the political consequences, the country witnessed the imposition of Emergency on June 25, 1975. During the Emergency, democratic freedoms were curtailed, opposition leaders were jailed, press freedom was restricted and constitutional institutions came under extraordinary pressure. The episode remains one of the darkest chapters in independent India's democratic journey. Congress cannot selectively invoke democratic principles while ignoring this legacy. Jammu and Kashmir has its own painful chapter. The 1987 Assembly election, conducted under the Congress-National Conference alliance, remains associated with serious allegations of electoral malpractice and large-scale rigging. The controversy damaged public confidence in democratic institutions and left a lasting impression on generations of Kashmiris. For a region that has experienced prolonged political uncertainty and conflict, electoral credibility is not an abstract issue. People must have faith that their votes matter and that political participation can bring genuine change. The 1987 controversy remains a reminder of what happens when electoral institutions lose public trust. Congress should therefore exercise caution before assuming the role of an unquestionable guardian of democratic values. The party's history also includes confrontations over electoral institutions. In 1993, Chief Election Commissioner T N Seshan challenged the appointment of two additional Election Commissioners and the provision for majority-based decisions. The Supreme Court upheld the three-member structure in 1995. In 2009, Chief Election Commissioner N Gopalaswami recommended the removal of Election Commissioner Navin Chawla, alleging bias. The recommendation was not accepted by the then government, and Chawla subsequently became Chief Election Commissioner. These episodes demonstrate that institutional disagreements and questions of independence are not new to India's electoral history. However, they must be resolved through constitutional and legal processes, not through political campaigns designed to discredit institutions. A declining Congress cannot blame institutions for its political failures Congress's national electoral decline deserves serious introspection. Its vote share, which stood at approximately 45 per cent in the 1952 general election, fell to 21.4 per cent in 2024. This decline reflects changing voter preferences, organisational weaknesses, leadership challenges and the emergence of strong regional and national political alternatives. Instead of addressing these shortcomings, Congress appears increasingly dependent on allegations against institutions and political opponents. Since the BJP-led NDA government came to power in 2014, opposition parties have repeatedly questioned major policy decisions and institutional processes. Rafale, EVMs and now 'vote theft' have become recurring political themes. The opposition has every right to question the government and seek accountability. That is the essence of democracy. But there is a difference between constructive criticism and repeatedly creating suspicion around institutions without establishing wrongdoing. The Election Commission of India has, over the decades, overseen hundreds of Assembly elections and more than 20 general elections. It has evolved through successive reforms, from indelible ink and election observers to electronic voting machines and more comprehensive electoral-roll management. No institution should be above scrutiny, including the Election Commission. Transparency, accountability and institutional independence must remain non-negotiable. But criticism must be evidence-based, and genuine concerns must be addressed through established procedures. Strengthening electoral democracy must rise above party politics The BJP believes that electoral reforms must be continuous, transparent and free from political interference. A voter list containing the names of deceased persons, duplicate registrations and people who have permanently shifted cannot be considered a perfect electoral roll. At the same time, no eligible citizen should be deprived of voting rights because of administrative errors, migration, documentation difficulties or procedural shortcomings. Both objectives must go hand in hand. The Election Commission must ensure that every genuine voter gets an opportunity to establish eligibility, seek inclusion and challenge an incorrect deletion. Political parties must also participate constructively instead of turning every administrative exercise into a confrontation. The real measure of SIR will be the accuracy and inclusiveness of the final electoral rolls. The process must eliminate ineligible entries while protecting every eligible citizen's constitutional right to vote. Congress should stop treating every institutional reform as a political conspiracy. If it has evidence of wrongdoing, it must present it through appropriate legal and constitutional channels. Democracy is strengthened by accountability, not by manufactured suspicion. India's democracy belongs to its people, not to Congress, the BJP or any other political formation. Every genuine voter must have a place in the electoral roll, and every vote must carry equal value. The question Congress must answer is simple: if it believes in clean elections, why does it oppose a process whose stated objective is to make electoral rolls cleaner and more credible? Democracy cannot be held hostage to the political convenience of one party. Electoral reforms must serve the voter, not the vested interests of political organisations. Altaf Thakur, BJP J&K Spokesman
The politics of convenient forgetting
There is a peculiar audacity in political amnesia. A party can participate in a political experiment, preside over its consequences, leave its principal commitments unfulfilled, and later return to public life as though it had been a spectator all along. The PDPs recent criticism of Omar Abdullahs government is a striking example of this contradiction. The party now invokes constitutional rights, statehood, political dignity and the unfulfilled aspirations of Jammu and Kashmir. These are important questions. But before lecturing others on the politics of accountability, the PDP must confront its own record. The question is not whether Jammu and Kashmir has lost constitutional authority. It has. The question is why a party that once promised to protect that authority believes it can discuss the consequences without answering for its own political choices. The alliance that history cannot erase- In 2014, the PDP sought a mandate on the promise of safeguarding Jammu and Kashmirs special constitutional position, pursuing its Self Rule framework, addressing alienation and creating a political environment conducive to reconciliation. Then came March 2015. The PDP entered into an alliance with the BJP, a party whose political position on Article 370 was fundamentally at odds with the constitutional assurances the PDP had made to its electorate. The two parties formalised their partnership through an Agenda of Alliance, promising reconciliation, dialogue with all stakeholders, confidence building measures and protection of Jammu and Kashmirs political and economic interests. The PDP presented this arrangement as a political achievement. It was supposed to bridge differences, protect regional interests and create conditions for lasting peace. What followed was a very different story, one the PDP would rather leave untold. In the 2014 Assembly elections, the PDP won 28 seats and the BJP 25 in the 87-member Assembly. In March 2015, the two parties joined hands to form a government under an Agenda of Alliance comprising 66 action points. Yet, by the end of 2017, a contemporary Indian Express assessment found that several key commitments had made little or no progress. Promised dialogue with political stakeholders remained unrealised, the transfer of power projects to Jammu and Kashmir had not materialised, and commitments concerning refugees and other longstanding political issues remained unresolved. A subsequent report in June 2018 described most of the alliances political initiatives as unfinished business. After approximately 40 months in government, the alliance collapsed on 19 June 2018 when the BJP withdrew support. These are not merely allegations levelled by political opponents; they are part of the documented record of an alliance whose promises fell far short of expectations. The PDP cannot erase the record of the political choices it made when it held power. The BJP withdrew support on June 19, 2018. The PDP government fell. Governors Rule followed, and Presidents Rule was imposed in December 2018. Jammu and Kashmir subsequently witnessed the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganisation of the erstwhile state in August 2019. For constitutional accuracy, the abrogation was a decision of the Union government, undertaken under Presidents Rule; it was not an act of the PDP led government. But the political chronology cannot be wished away. The PDP had chosen to enter an alliance with the BJP, failed to secure many of its stated political objectives, and governed until that arrangement collapsed. The subsequent period of central rule became the setting in which the constitutional changes were carried out. The PDP was not the sole author of what happened in 2019. But neither can it erase its own place in the political sequence that preceded it. A party cannot spend years telling people that an alliance will protect their interests and then behave as though the consequences of that political gamble belong exclusively to somebody else. The constitutional authority that disappeared Before 2019, Jammu and Kashmir possessed a constitutional and institutional framework fundamentally different from the one under which it is governed today. It had statehood, its own Constitution, a wider sphere of legislative and executive authority, and the special constitutional arrangement associated with Article 370. Today, Jammu and Kashmir is a Union Territory with a legislature. Several important areas of governance remain subject to the Unions authority, and the elected government does not possess the full range of powers previously available to a state government. This distinction is central to understanding the present political struggle. The restoration of statehood is not simply a demand for a different administrative designation. It concerns the restoration of a fuller constitutional relationship between the elected government and the people it represents. The demand for Article 370 and the demand for statehood are related, but they are not identical. Restoring statehood alone would not automatically restore the former special constitutional status. The National Conferences fight for these rights takes place within a framework substantially altered in 2019. Its government must govern while operating under constitutional and administrative limitations that did not exist in the same form when Jammu and Kashmir was a state. The PDP, meanwhile, must explain its own political choices during the years immediately preceding that transformation. It cannot claim that the constitutional loss is a tragedy when addressing the electorate and then treat its own record of political accommodation as irrelevant when the discussion turns to responsibility. The constitutional ground was lost through decisions taken by the Union government, but the PDPs failed political strategy and its alliance with the BJP belong squarely in the history of how Jammu and Kashmir arrived at that juncture. The politics of promises without delivery The PDPs Agenda of Alliance was not a casual political document. It was the basis on which two ideologically opposed parties agreed to govern Jammu and Kashmir. It promised dialogue with all stakeholders, including political groups irrespective of their ideological positions. It envisaged confidence building measures across the Line of Control, progress on power projects, and steps to address longstanding political and economic grievances. Yet, by the time the alliance collapsed, several of these commitments remained unfulfilled. The June 2018 assessment by The Indian Express highlighted the absence of meaningful progress on dialogue with separatist groups, the failure to secure the return of key hydropower projects, and the lack of a resolution to important refugee related commitments. The newspaper also identified a number of developmental initiatives that had progressed, including the Srinagar and Jammu ring roads and a super speciality AIIMS in Kashmir. A fair assessment must acknowledge both sides of that record. The alliance did deliver some infrastructure initiatives. But its central political promise was reconciliation and confidence building, and the documented shortcomings in that sphere were substantial. What, then, entitles the PDP to present itself today as the unquestioned authority on political accountability? Where is the comprehensive accounting of the promises it made? Where is the honest political reckoning with the contradictions of its alliance? And where is the acknowledgement that the political strategy it defended failed to deliver many of the safeguards and outcomes it had promised? No verified, comprehensive audit establishes an exact number of promises fulfilled out of the PDPs entire 2014 manifesto. A fabricated score would weaken the argument rather than strengthen it. The contemporary record of the alliances own 66 action points, however, provides ample grounds for scrutiny. The PDP does not need to be accused of every subsequent development to be held accountable for the promises it made and the political choices it defended. Its own record is enough to demand answers. Two years of governance with limited powers Against this historical backdrop, the National Conference government led by Omar Abdullah assumed office in October 2024 following the first Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir in a decade. It inherited a Union Territory framework in which the elected government does not exercise the full authority once available to a state government. Yet, within this restricted constitutional arrangement, the government has pursued a range of welfare, employment, healthcare, education and development initiatives. The record deserves to be examined on its actual achievements, rather than through the selective lens of political opponents. 1. Free travel for women From April 2025, women were provided free travel on government owned public transport, including JKRTC buses and smart city e buses. The initiative directly reduces travel costs and improves access to education, employment and essential services. 2. Food security for vulnerable families The 2025 to 2026 Budget provided for an additional 10 kilograms of free ration for Antyodaya Anna Yojana beneficiaries. This measure strengthens food security for some of the most economically vulnerable households in Jammu and Kashmir. 3. Free electricity for eligible families In February 2026, approval was secured for a scheme providing 200 free units of electricity to approximately 2.23 lakh AAY families under the PM Surya Ghar framework. The measure is targeted rather than universal, but it represents a concrete step towards providing relief to eligible households. 4. Enhanced marriage assistance Marriage assistance for eligible girls from AAY families was increased from `50,000 to `75,000, with relaxed eligibility conditions. The initiative provides additional support to families facing financial hardship. 5. Mission YUVA and entrepreneurship Mission YUVA was launched with a five year target of 1.37 lakh enterprises and 4.25 lakh employment opportunities. It seeks to expand entrepreneurship, strengthen skill development and improve access to economic opportunities for young people. These are programme targets, not a claim that every projected job has already been created. Their significance lies in the scale and structure of the initiative, which must continue to be assessed through measurable outcomes. 6. Healthcare and telemedicine The government has pursued the expansion and upgrading of healthcare infrastructure, including diagnostic facilities such as MRI and CT scanning. Plans to expand telemedicine through 80 centres and improve digital healthcare access are intended to bring services closer to communities across the region. 7. Education and support for students Fee waiver measures have been announced for eligible AAY students in government schools and degree colleges. These measures are designed to ease the financial burden on disadvantaged families and widen access to education. 8. Agricultural support and rural infrastructure Initiatives reported during the governments second year include expanded weather based crop insurance coverage for crops such as apple, saffron, mango and litchi, with coverage reported at approximately `6,595 crore. Rural connectivity initiatives and road projects under centrally sponsored programmes have also progressed through approvals and implementation. 9. Sports and youth engagement The government has reported extensive participation in school sports during 2025 to 2026, alongside efforts to improve sporting infrastructure and introduce additional facilities in government schools. These initiatives are documented in the governments second year review and contemporary reporting by Hindustan Times and PRS Legislative Research. These achievements must be understood in their proper constitutional context. Jammu and Kashmirs elected government is operating without the full authority of a state government. It must work within an arrangement in which significant powers remain with the Union and the Lieutenant Governor. The point is not that every promise has been completed. It is that the record of the last two years includes identifiable welfare measures, institutional initiatives and development programmes undertaken within a constrained system. To judge this government fairly, one must consider both what it has accomplished and the constitutional circumstances in which it has had to operate. To judge the PDP fairly, one must also remember the government it once led, the alliance it chose and the promises that remained unfulfilled. The PDPs burden of political credibility The PDP is entitled to question any government. But the right to question does not confer the right to rewrite history. When it criticises the present political situation, it must answer for the contradictions between its constitutional promises and its decision to govern alongside the BJP. When it invokes the loss of special status, it must confront the record of an alliance that promised to protect Jammu and Kashmirs political interests but failed to secure several of its central objectives. The PDP cannot simultaneously claim credit for having pursued reconciliation through the BJP alliance and disown the political failure of that very experiment. Nor can it treat the present demand for statehood as though it emerged from nowhere, detached from the events that unfolded during and after its tenure. The constitutional changes of 2019 were made by the Union government. That fact must remain clear. But the political history that preceded those changes must remain equally clear. The PDPs responsibility lies in its decisions, its commitments and the outcomes of the political strategy it chose to pursue. Its alliance with the BJP was a voluntary political decision. Its promises were its own. Its record is therefore a legitimate subject of public scrutiny. The National Conference government, meanwhile, is entitled to be assessed against the powers it actually possesses, the initiatives it has undertaken and the constitutional restoration it continues to seek. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve more than selective outrage. They deserve a politics that acknowledges history honestly, distinguishes responsibility from rhetoric and measures governments by evidence. The NC must continue to defend Jammu and Kashmirs political rights and deliver for its people. The PDP must account for its own past before assuming the role of its principal moral examiner. The party that once promised to protect Jammu and Kashmirs political future cannot escape the question of what its own choices contributed to the political circumstances in which that future is now being contested. The struggle for statehood and constitutional dignity is not a convenient slogan for any party to appropriate. It is a demand rooted in the transformation of Jammu and Kashmirs constitutional position and the loss of powers once exercised by its elected institutions. Those who helped shape the political history preceding that transformation must answer for their part in it. Jammu and Kashmir does not need lessons in accountability from those unwilling to account for themselves. Adv Shriya Handoo, Research Head and Spokesperson, JKNC
Beyond the Maternity Hospital Question
Anantnag has long been one of Kashmirs most important historical, administrative and commercial centres. Its institutions serve not only the district itself but also people from across South Kashmir and Chenab area who depend on them for essential public services. Yet, when it comes to healthcare infrastructure, the region continues to face serious questions about the adequacy of specialised facilities and the pace at which essential projects are delivered. The recent statement by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah that the land identified at Janglat Mandi is insufficient for the proposed 250 bedded Maternity and Child Care Hospital has brought these concerns into sharp focus. The Chief Minister has said that funds are available and an alternative site will be identified. While this assurance offers hope, it also raises a fundamental question about project planning. If the land is inadequate, why was this not established before the project reached this stage? A hospital of this scale requires careful assessment of land, building design, emergency access, utilities and future expansion before implementation begins. If the selected site cannot accommodate the proposed facility, the administration must explain when this constraint was identified, what assessment was conducted and why the issue was not resolved earlier. Technical difficulties can arise in public projects, but uncertainty over such a basic requirement demands a clear explanation. The public deserves a transparent account of the decisions taken so far. The chronology of the project makes the latest development particularly concerning. While the present proposal for a 250 bedded maternity facility took shape in 2024 and 2025, the broader issue of relocating Anantnags maternity hospital dates back more than a decade. The existing Sher Bagh facility was declared unsafe in 2014, yet it continues to serve patients, raising a fundamental question that what kind of engineering and administrative judgement allows a healthcare facility declared unsafe to remain operational for over a decade? Concerns about its condition, limited space and overcrowding have persisted for years. A proposal for a 200 bedded hospital at Janglat Mandi was submitted in December 2025, with the proposed capacity subsequently increased to 250 beds. The project then encountered difficulties concerning its proposed funding mechanism and the preparation of the Detailed Project Report. In March 2026, an allocation of approximately `86 crore was announced. Yet, by October 2026, the suitability of the site remained unresolved. The concern, therefore, is not merely about a delay in a recently proposed project, but about the persistence of a critical healthcare infrastructure gap for more than a decade, while the safety of mothers, newborns and healthcare workers demands urgent attention. Further delay could also substantially increase the projects eventual cost. Rising construction costs, revised estimates and prolonged administrative processes can place additional pressure on public funds. The possibility of the cost doubling before construction begins deserves serious attention, although the actual escalation must be established through updated project estimates. This sequence demands a thorough review of the planning and decision-making process. The administration must establish whether the land was assessed against the hospitals actual requirements, whether alternative sites were considered and whether the increase in capacity necessitated a fresh assessment. Essential healthcare projects cannot be allowed to move from one unresolved obstacle to another while patients continue to wait. The people of Anantnag deserve clear answers, defined timelines and visible progress towards construction. Maternity care cannot wait indefinitely for administrative decisions. Complicated pregnancies may require emergency surgery, blood transfusion and intensive monitoring, while newborns may need specialised neonatal care and immediate intervention. Such services require safe buildings, adequately equipped labour rooms, functional operation theatres and trained personnel. The government must expedite the new hospital while taking immediate measures to ensure safe and adequate services at the existing facility. Anantnags healthcare challenge extends far beyond maternity services. Beyond the long-pending demand for a Maternity and Child Care Hospital (MCCH), which remains a pressing necessity given the inadequacy and reported safety concerns surrounding the existing facility, serious concerns also persist regarding the availability of specialised and critical care services across South Kashmir. Patients often have to travel to Srinagar for advanced treatment, adding to their financial burden and compounding the difficulties faced by families during medical emergencies. The proposal for a 500 bedded multispeciality medical college hospital at Dialgam deserves serious consideration by the Health and Medical Education Department. This is a broader vision for healthcare development in South Kashmir that has been advocated for more than a decade. Rather than limiting investment to a standalone maternity facility, the regions long-term needs should be assessed through the proposed development of a comprehensive hospital bringing maternity and child healthcare, general medicine, general surgery and allied specialities under one roof. Srinagars tertiary hospitals remain indispensable to Jammu and Kashmir. However, Anantnags healthcare institutions serve not only South Kashmir but also patients from neighbouring districts and adjoining areas of the Jammu division, including Ramban, Doda and Kishtwar. This wider catchment area places additional demands on its healthcare infrastructure and specialised services. The objective is not to diminish the importance of Srinagars hospitals but to strengthen healthcare facilities in South Kashmir so that patients can receive appropriate treatment closer to home. A balanced healthcare system requires strong regional institutions alongside well-equipped referral centres. The available land at GMC Anantnag Dialgam warrants a formal feasibility assessment for the proposed multispeciality hospital. If found suitable, it could accommodate future expansion and reduce referrals to Srinagar. The proposal to transfer MCCH at Sher Bagh and MMAMB Hospital at Janglat Mandi to the Health Services Department should also be examined to ensure continuity of care and efficient use of existing infrastructure. The earlier proposal to shift maternity services to the Rehmat Alam building at Sarnal also deserves attention. Published reports indicate that the relocation did not proceed after a technical assessment found the structure unsuitable in its existing condition. This episode raises questions about the assessment of existing infrastructure, the use of public funds and the lessons incorporated into subsequent planning. The wider issue is regional equity. Anantnag is a major centre whose healthcare institutions serve communities across South Kashmir. Its needs must be assessed against the population served, patient loads, specialist availability and referral patterns. Equity does not mean favouring one region over another. It means allocating public resources according to demonstrable need. For the maternity hospital, the immediate priorities are clear. The administration must identify a suitable site, disclose the reasons for its selection, clarify the funding status and publish a realistic timeline for approvals, tendering, construction and commissioning. Responsibility for each stage should be clearly assigned. The existing maternity facility must also receive urgent attention while the new hospital is being developed. The measure of governance is not the number of projects announced or reviewed but whether they become functional facilities that improve peoples lives. For a pregnant woman requiring emergency care, a hospital is not an abstract development promise. It is where timely treatment can protect her life and that of her child. Anantnag does not need another assurance that its healthcare problems will eventually be resolved. It needs sound planning, transparent decisions and a credible timeline. If the land was inadequate, the government must explain why this was not established earlier. If the funds are available, it must explain what is preventing construction. Above all, the people of South Kashmir deserve healthcare infrastructure that reflects their needs and allows them to access essential treatment without avoidable delays. Dr Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmad is a former Professor of Neonatology, SKIMS and HOD Paediatrics GMC Anantnag. Peerzada Mohsin Shafi hails from Anantnag and write on issues related to infrastructure development.
The Mid-Day Meal Scheme also Known as PM Poshan is undoubtedly one of the important initiatives of the Government for the welfare of children studying in government schools. For many children, particularly those belonging to economically weaker families, the meal served at school is more than just food. It provides nourishment, helps them concentrate in the classroom and encourages parents to send their children to school regularly. The scheme has played a significant role in addressing classroom hunger and promoting social equality among children. Its importance, therefore, cannot be undermined. Rather, every effort should be made to strengthen its implementation so that the intended benefits reach every eligible child. However, a serious concern has emerged regarding the manner in which the scheme is being managed in government schools across Jammu and Kashmir. Teachers, who are already burdened with academic work, official documentation, surveys and other departmental assignments, are often left to manage the financial and administrative responsibilities associated with the scheme. In several instances, teachers have to purchase essential items on credit from local shopkeepers or pay from their own pockets to ensure that the meals are served without interruption. The situation becomes difficult when payments are delayed for months. Shopkeepers naturally demand their money, but teachers have to wait for the Department to release the funds. This creates unnecessary financial pressure and sometimes affects their personal and family budgets. The question is simple: Why should a teacher, appointed to educate children, be compelled to arrange money for a government scheme? Teachers have never opposed the Mid-Day Meal Scheme. Their concern is not about the scheme itself but about the system through which it is implemented. A teachers primary responsibility is to teach, guide students and improve learning outcomes. Making teachers responsible for arranging funds, dealing with suppliers and pursuing pending bills takes away valuable time and attention from their actual duties. In these circumstances, the Government should seriously consider handing over the operational management of the scheme to capable and registered NGOs or other authorised agencies, wherever feasible. Such organisations could be made responsible for procuring food items, arranging supplies, maintaining accounts and ensuring timely delivery of meals, under proper departmental supervision. Of course, any such arrangement must be transparent and accountable. The quality of food, nutritional standards, hygiene and timely service should never be compromised. The Government must retain effective monitoring and ensure that every child receives the meal to which they are entitled. A pilot project in selected zones could help assess whether this model is practical and beneficial. Where handing over the scheme to an NGO is not feasible, the Department should at least introduce a system of advance fund release, timely payments to suppliers and a clear mechanism that does not require teachers to spend their personal money. It is also necessary to recognise that the responsibility of running a government welfare scheme cannot be shifted onto teachers without providing the necessary financial and administrative support. Expecting them to manage expenses while waiting months for reimbursement is neither practical nor fair. The Mid-Day Meal Scheme is meant to support children, strengthen school attendance and promote better nutrition. Its implementation should reflect the same spirit of welfare and responsibility. The Government must ensure that the scheme continues smoothly, but not at the cost of teachers financial peace and professional responsibilities. Children need nutritious meals, schools need an efficient system, and teachers need the freedom to teach. It is time to find a practical solution that serves all three purposes.
The ruling National Conference has received a mandate in Jammu and Kashmir that few had anticipated. Power brings its own arithmetic, and the arithmetic in the government is now uncomfortable. The Chief Minister has a Cabinet-rank advisor, yet the number of ministers is capped at ten. Beyond those ten berths, the party must find ways to keep a large number of its elected members busy, relevant and content. For the party leadership, this has become a genuine headache. It is also a question of governance that the people of Jammu and Kashmir should be asking. Politics is a profession, and like every profession, its ladder is climbed slowly. Every Member of the Legislative Assembly enters the House with the ambition of becoming a minister, and in a democracy that ambition is legitimate. Every MLA is, in his own mind, a prospective Chief Minister. There is nothing wrong with this. A young graduate who joins a bank hopes to become its chairman one day, and a civil servant dreams of becoming a secretary to the government. Why should an elected representative be denied the same aspiration? The problem lies in how our political parties are structured. Many of them function much like private limited companies. The promoter, or party chief, holds the right to decide who rises and who does not. Top slots go to the family or to trusted nominees, and the rest of the members are expected to wait for their turn, often indefinitely. This is not unique to one party, but the Abdullah familys political journey across generations shows how the same model has been carried forward. Each generation has inherited not just the party but the expectation that leadership will remain within the family circle. Those who have served the party for years now ask a simple question: why not me? The cabinet reshuffle has become the ritual answer to that question. Yet a reshuffle is more often a tool to accommodate MLAs than an instrument of better development. Ministers are appointed to keep coalitions and factions stable, not necessarily to deliver results in their departments. When a Cabinet of ten is the only path to real power and visible authority, the remaining members are left with very little. The consequences are felt well beyond the Assembly. Consider the numbers. In a House of 93 members, 83 are, in effect, unemployed. They do not hold ministerial office, and many do not have an office in any meaningful sense. What they do have is a car, a constituency full of expectations, and a list of demands from people who see them as the first point of contact with government. Some are given a secretary who heads a department, but that secretary answers to the minister, not to the MLA. The MLA is therefore accountable to voters for outcomes he cannot control. He is like the father of a bridegroom, burdened with obligations at the wedding yet feeling that the resources are in someone elses hands. If a legislator who is meant to represent the people finds himself without a defined role, imagine the fate of the civil society he is supposed to serve. So what is the solution? I propose a simple project management programme that gives every MLA a defined, measurable and honourable role in development. The starting point is to recognise that the constituency is the natural unit of governance. Every MLA should have a clearly identified share of the budget for his constituency. This share should cover central schemes implemented locally, infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges and schools, state government development initiatives, revenue works, water supply, upgrades of electricity and electric distribution, the removal of illegal encroachments on roads, and the improvement of the central market in the town or city. The MLA and the District Administration should jointly prepare an Annual Plan for the constituency. The plan should list priorities, projects, timelines, responsible officers and expected outcomes. Once approved, it becomes a contract of sorts between the elected representative, the administration and the people. Progress should be reviewed every quarter, and the results should be made public. In this model, the MLA is no longer a supplicant begging favours from the bureaucracy. He becomes a partner in planning and a monitor of execution. The MLA does need a party fund, and it should be provided, but only on one condition: the work must be done. Party funds have often become a means of rewarding loyalty rather than purchasing outcomes. If a fund is released, it should be linked to verifiable deliverables. Money that is not converted into roads, water connections or working transformers serves no purpose and erodes public trust in every politician. The second and equally important responsibility of the MLA is to ensure that work is executed to very high standards. As the political head of the constituency, he must be accountable for quality. He should have the authority to act against officials who fail to perform, whether through recommendations for disciplinary proceedings or formal reporting to higher authorities. A legislator who sees a poorly built drain or a stalled water scheme, yet has no power to act, is merely a spectator. An MLA with a defined mandate becomes an effective check on the administration. This will require a change of mindset. Too many MLAs measure their success by the postings they secure, the transfers they arrange, or the temporary jobs they provide to those they consider sympathetic. This patronage culture weakens institutions and rewards proximity to power rather than merit. A legislator who spends his time on such favours is not doing his job. The new measure of an MLA should be how many projects were completed on time, how much public money was saved, and how many citizens were served fairly. Transparency must be built into the system from the beginning. A committee of MLAs drawn from all parties should conduct an external audit of constituency works, and it should include respected members of civil society: retired professionals, academics, engineers, chartered accountants and representatives of local bodies. When ruling and opposition legislators examine the same records together, the work becomes credible and the exercise becomes a bridge rather than a battlefield. Civil society participation also ensures that the audit cannot be captured by any single political interest. Such a framework would give meaningful work to MLAs, reduce the pressure for cabinet berths that cannot be given, and direct political energy towards delivery. It would also address the public frustration with a system in which elected representatives are seen as either powerless or, worse, as beneficiaries of every contract. Members would have a reason to stay within their parties and contribute, because their performance would be visible and rewarded with recognition rather than mere proximity to power. The alternative is not pleasant. Where legislators feel sidelined, the political market becomes unstable. Trading of MLAs, floor crossings and horse-trading are not inevitable, but they become common when members have no stake in governance beyond their next ministerial aspiration. A party that gives its MLAs a purpose is far less likely to lose them to rival camps. Stability in government depends not only on numbers but on the sense of responsibility each member carries. Jammu and Kashmir has waited long for a government that delivers. The people have voted with hope. The challenge for elected representatives is to convert that hope into roads that last, water that flows and institutions that serve. The 83 members who are not ministers need not be a headache. With the right framework, they can become the most powerful force for change in their constituencies. The question is whether the leadership is ready to share power, and whether the MLAs are ready to earn it. Lt Gen R. S. Reen is a former DGQA
Kashmirs springs are drying up, and the consequences could reach far beyond the villages that depend on them. What was once a dependable source of drinking water, irrigation and livelihood is gradually becoming unreliable. This should be a matter of serious public concern, not another environmental warning that attracts attention briefly before being forgotten. For generations, springs have sustained mountain communities across Kashmir. In many remote settlements, they remain among the most accessible sources of freshwater. Their decline, therefore, is not simply an ecological problem. It directly affects peoples lives, livelihoods and water security. Studies in the Sindh Basin have linked declining spring discharge to climate variability, rising temperatures, earlier snowmelt and changes in land use. More recent research has identified an elevation band of approximately 1,750 to 2,875 metres as an important zone for replenishing many of these springs. This finding carries an important message: protecting a spring cannot begin and end at its outlet. The water emerging from the ground may have travelled from considerably higher elevations, where rainwater and melting snow seep into the soil and replenish underground reserves. If these landscapes are damaged, the springs below will eventually suffer. Yet, conservation efforts often concentrate on cleaning spring outlets, building protective structures or improving their immediate surroundings. While such interventions have their place, they cannot address the underlying problem if the areas supplying groundwater remain neglected. Unregulated construction, deforestation, road development, land-use changes and the destruction of natural drainage systems can interfere with the movement of water into the ground. Climate change adds another layer of pressure by altering snowfall, temperatures and the timing of snowmelt. The Jammu and Kashmir administration must treat spring conservation as a water-security priority. Kashmir cannot afford to wait until its springs disappear to recognise their importance. Rivers may dominate discussions about water, but for thousands of mountain residents, a spring is the closest and most immediate source of life.
Govt designates Executive Committee as single nodal agency for all business approvals
Srinagar, Nov 4:In a major step towards streamlining the investment approval mechanism, the government has designated its Executive Committee as the Single Nodal Agency for all pre-establishment, construction, connection and operational-stage approvals required by enterprises across Jammu and Kashmir. The decision, notified by the General Administration Department (GAD) on November 4, is aimed at addressing the difficulties faced by investors in obtaining clearances from multiple government departments and agencies before starting their businesses. The notification, issued under the Jammu and Kashmir Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, makes the Executive Committee the single point of contact for investors seeking various regulatory approvals, including those setting up units in notified industrial areas, industrial parks and clusters. Acknowledging the existing challenges faced by entrepreneurs, the government has noted in the notification that an enterprise, particularly one setting up in an industrial area or cluster, presently has to obtain approvals from multiple departments and agencies. These relate to land, building plans, fire safety, power, water, effluent disposal, environment, factory licensing and municipal matters, the notification states. It further points out that each department and agency operates with its own checklists, timelines, portals and documentation requirements. No single authority is accountable for taking the enterprise from project conception to commencement of production, the notification observes. Invoking the One State Principle under Section 3(b) of the Act, the government has reiterated that it shall function as a single entity for regulatory compliance. The notification states that under Section 8(a) of the Act, the Executive Committee shall function as a single point of contact for investors of eligible enterprises, in coordination with the District Empowered Committees. It also mandates the committee to ensure that all necessary approvals are granted in a time-bound manner. The District Empowered Committees will be responsible for receiving Declarations of Intent and issuing Certificates of In-Principle Approval under the supervision of the Executive Committee. Now therefore, it is hereby notified that, after coming into force of the Jammu and Kashmir Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, the Executive Committee shall function as the Single Nodal Agency for all pre-establishment, construction, connection and operation-stage approvals required by enterprises in Jammu and Kashmir, the notification reads. It further clarifies that the arrangement will cover enterprises operating within notified industrial areas, industrial parks and clusters. The notification was issued by CommissionerbSecretary to the Government, General Administration Department, M Raju, by order of the Jammu and Kashmir Government.
Sagar calls for time-bound relief, rehabilitation measures
Jammu, Nov 4:Minister for Revenue, Power Development Department (PDD), Law, Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR), and Elections, Ali Mohammad Sagar, on Wednesday chaired a comprehensive review meeting of the Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Department (DMRRR), directing officers to ensure effective implementation of all welfare, relief and rehabilitation measures through a result-oriented and time-bound approach. Taking a detailed assessment of the functioning of the department, the Minister underscored the need for greater administrative responsiveness, inter-departmental coordination and accountability, particularly in addressing issues concerning migrant families, disaster-affected households and other vulnerable sections of society. Reviewing matters pertaining to migrant properties, Sagar directed the officers to intensify efforts for retrieval and restoration of migrant properties, ensure payment of compensation wherever admissible and take stringent action against encroachments and illegal occupation. He stressed that all pending cases should be examined on priority and resolved in accordance with the prescribed rules and procedures. With regard to migrant employees, the Minister called for expeditious resolution of service-related issues, assured career progression and timely release of admissible benefits. He also reviewed the implementation of migrant employment packages, noting that nearly 98 per cent of the positions had been covered, and directed the concerned officers to address the remaining cases without unnecessary delay. Emphasising the need to improve the living conditions of migrant families, Sagar called for the establishment of community halls at every migrant location in Jammu and Srinagar. He also directed a comprehensive review of completed and ongoing community infrastructure projects, including the establishment of digital libraries to facilitate educational and social activities. The minister expressed concern over the condition of certain migrant residential colonies and directed the concerned authorities to undertake urgent repair and renovation works. He stressed that essential civic amenities, including healthcare facilities, safe drinking water, sanitation and other basic services, must be ensured in all such colonies. On the issue of ration and relief assistance, Sagar directed the department to ensure uninterrupted supply of ration to migrant families and expedite the settlement of pending relief claims. He emphasised that no eligible family should face hardship due to administrative delays or procedural bottlenecks. Reviewing disaster management preparedness and relief measures, the Minister called for expeditious assessment of damages and timely disbursement of admissible relief and compensation to all eligible disaster-affected families. He stressed the need to strengthen disaster mitigation mechanisms through adequate financial provisioning and effective utilisation of available funds, with particular emphasis on preparedness, vulnerability reduction and institutional response capacity. The minister also stressed the need to ensure adequate coverage of the Bakerwal and other nomadic communities under disaster preparedness, relief, rehabilitation and assistance programmes, keeping in view their geographical mobility and vulnerability to natural calamities. Sagar underscored that disaster management must be approached as a continuous process encompassing preparedness, mitigation, timely response, relief and long-term rehabilitation. He called for close coordination among all concerned departments and field agencies to ensure that assistance reaches affected families without delay. The meeting also appreciated the proactive intervention of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who personally visited families affected by the Kishtwar disaster and other affected areas. The minister observed that the Chief Minister's personal outreach reflected the Government's commitment to standing with affected families and ensuring prompt relief, assistance and rehabilitation. Sagar directed the officers to translate the decisions taken during the meeting into concrete outcomes, establish clear timelines for pending works and ensure regular monitoring of progress. He stressed that accountability must be fixed at every level and that the department must function with sensitivity, transparency and a strong commitment to public welfare. Our priority must be to ensure that every deserving family receives timely assistance, every genuine grievance is addressed and every rehabilitation commitment is fulfilled. There should be no delay in extending relief to those in need, the minister emphasised. The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, DMRRR, M Raju; Special Secretary, DMRRR, Ashish Gupta; Relief Commissioner, Arvind Karvani; and other senior officers of the department.
HC puts on hold reopening of Siraj-ul-Uloom Shopian
Srinagar, Nov 4: The High Court of J&K and Ladakh Monday stayed the operation of an order passed by the Principal and Sessions Judge Shopian allowing the reopening of Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom, which had been declared an unlawful entity under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) earlier this year. A Division Bench of Justice Sanjeev Kumar and Justice Mohd Yousuf Wani, while hearing a petition filed by the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and another, however, made it clear that students enrolled in the institution on the date of issuance of the impugned order shall not be disturbed. The bench issued notice to the seminary, which was accepted by its counsel. The counsel was granted four weeks time to file objections. In the meanwhile, subject to objections and till next date of hearing, the operation of the impugned order is stayed, the court said and listed the matter on February 1 next year. In September this year, Principal and Sessions Judge Shopian had ordered the reopening of the institution pending final adjudication of the matter, observing that the material placed by the government at the prima facie stage was insufficient to justify keeping the entire institution shut. The local court had also directed the government to constitute a three-member supervisory committee to oversee the institution's functioning. The institution's counsel had submitted that its prolonged closure was adversely affecting around 1200 students, including nearly 400 residential boarders. The institution was ordered to be closed in April by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, following allegations of sustained and covert links with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami.
NC dissent deepens, rebels hold 3rd huddle; Farooq Abdullah may step in
Srinagar, Nov 4:Dissident National Conference (NC) legislators held two closed-door meetings on Wednesday: one at the Srinagar residence of MLA Gulmarg, Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, and the other at the residence of MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi). The meeting at the residence of MLA Gulmarg was the third since the reshuffle in Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs cabinet, after which dissident NC legislators held their first closed-door meeting at the Srinagar residence of MLA Lolab, Qaysar Jamshaid Lone. According to sources, 12 dissident legislators of the ruling NC held a fresh round of discussions at the Haiderpora residence of MLA Gulmarg, reaffirming their resolve to remain united and press ahead with their demands. They said the meeting, held on Wednesday evening, lasted over two hours and focused on finalising a memorandum of demands to be submitted to NC President and three-time chief minister Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah when the party leadership invites the legislators for talks. The sources said 12 dissident NC MLAs attended the meeting and discussed each point of the memorandum in detail. They said that the dissident MLAs unanimously resolved to maintain unity within the group, regardless of the circumstances. The sources said that senior NC leaders, including six-time legislator from Eidgah, Mubarik Gul, four-time legislator from Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi), two-time legislator from Lolab, Qaysar Jamshaid Lone, and MLA Srigufwara-Bijbehara Bashir Ahmad Shah (Veeri), were among those who attended the meeting. The sources said the meeting was cordial but firm, and the legislators discussed their future strategy, making it clear that they would not be satisfied with assurances alone. MLA Gulmarg, Pirzada Farooq Ahmed Shah, told Greater Kashmir that the group of NC MLAs had only authorised MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi) to speak to the media while the rest were on oath not to leak any information. Earlier in the day, 11 dissident NC legislators held another meeting at the Srinagar residence of MLA Gurez amid growing tensions within the party. A legislator participating in the meeting said discussions were underway and that the group would decide on its future course of action following the deliberations. Deliberations are ongoing, and the course of action will follow, the MLA said. The meeting comes amid recent developments within the ruling party, following concerns raised by a group of dissident NC legislators over organisational and governance-related issues following the cabinet reshuffle and senior party leader Syed Aga Ruhullah's parting from NC on Tuesday. Talking to Greater Kashmir, NC MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi) said that nobody in the party had any personal agenda. Everyone wants to make the party strong. We are not here to break the party. However, no party is perfect and the issues that the party leaders have need to be discussed. The leadership is discussing those issues. Some things are done, and some more things need to be done, he said. Regarding reports that most dissident NC legislators opposed Chief Minister Omar Abdullahs inner circle including the CMs Advisor and an NC Rajya Sabha member handling the party's finances - Khan said that while some legislators had issues with them, the situation was resolvable. However, sources inside the NC said all the dissident NC MLAs were against CM Omars inner circle. A dissident NC legislator said that CM Omar needs to change his kitchen cabinet that comprises of failed politicians and defeated candidates. He said that the CM should also mend his ways of humiliating senior legislators and party leaders, some of whom have been elected twice or thrice as many times as he to the Assembly. He publicly humiliates senior legislators and party leaders but goes out of his way to promote people in his inner circle and hands them important public offices, the dissident NC legislator said. Such favouritism has to stop. The sources said that there is a likelihood of a meeting between the dissident NC legislators and the party high command on Friday. They said that if the meeting materialises, NC President Farooq Abdullah may pacify the dissenting legislators, following which the organisation might witness some changes by sidelining members in CM Omars inner circle. Meanwhile, after deferring his news conference that was scheduled for Wednesday, MLA Eidgah Mubarik Gul has asked representatives from his constituency to assemble at his residence at 11:30 am on Thursday.
Finally, AIIMS Awantipora to be inaugurated today
Srinagar, Nov 4:After years of delay, the much-awaited All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Awantipora in Pulwama is set to begin functioning. Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, J P Nadda will inaugurate the OPD block of the premier tertiary-care facility, and review progress of Phase-2 and Phase-3 work. The OPD services will start soon, with support of a fully-functional diagnostic block. The Health Minister is scheduled to visit J&K on Thursday. He will visit AIIMS Awantipora to hold a review meeting on the progress of the Institute. The OPD block will be inaugurated and dedicated to people of J&K, the sources said. The Health Minister is also scheduled to visit ARSH Institute of Health Sciences and Technology and interact with students there. Speaking to Greater Kashmir, Executive Director AIIMS Kashmir Dr Sachidananda Mohanty said the institute was being made fully functional for the public on a fast track. For the beginning, OPD services will be started in December this year, he said. Dr Mohanty said the retrofitted hospital structure will be available for being utilized for patient services by the end of this month. The start of services marks a significant milestone for a project that has witnessed repeated delays since its conception. While it had raised expectations of improved access to specialised healthcare in Kashmir, its never-ending journey to completion had bred resentment among local population, particularly patients from south Kashmir who currently have to travel to Srinagar for tertiary-level treatment. AIIMS Awantipora has been developed at a revised estimated cost of over Rs 2160 crore, was sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY). The institute is envisaged as a 750-bed tertiary-care facility that will have specialised medical services. It is also being looked upto for augmenting medical education and research infrastructure in Kashmir In September last year, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had said that the institute was in progress and stated that it will become fully functional by the end of 2026. He had indicated that OPD services and MBBS classes would start earlier. However, no MBBS seats were allocated to the Institute this year. While inpatient services, the CM had hoped, would become operational by November-December 2026, now the OPDs are to be started over this time frame. More recently, a review by the Pulwama district administration had stressed the need to operationalise the OPD and essential services in a phased manner, rather than awaiting full completion of the project for making a start. Officials at AIIMS Awantipora said the institute comprises 57 buildings, of which several structures were still undergoing construction. Phase-II works, including academic and allied infrastructure, were targeted for completion by November-end. Other major components under Phase-III are scheduled for completion by June 2027. The administration had also emphasised that laboratory and diagnostic services should become functional alongside the OPD. This will ensure that patients have access to essential investigations from the outset.
LG Sinha sets 6-month clock ticking for university reforms
Jammu, Nov 4:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday set a six-month deadline for Jammu and Kashmir universities to roll out the Design Your Degree (DYD) programme. Chairing a high-level meeting of Jammu Kashmir Higher Education Council (JKHEC), at Lok Bhavan, LG Sinha, to drive academic reform, set a six-month deadline for universities in J&K to roll out the DYD programme. The council met under the leadership of LG Sinha to chart a forward-looking roadmap for higher education. The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; Minister for School Education Department, Higher Education Department, Jal Shakti Department, Shamim Firdous; Vice Chairman, J&K Higher Education Council, Prof Dinesh Singh; Acting Chief Secretary and Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department, Shailendra Kumar; Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor, Govind Jaiswal; Commissioner Secretary; Higher Education Department, Ram Niwas Sharma; Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof Umesh Rai; VC University of Kashmir, Prof Nilofer Khan; VC, IUST, Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo; VC SMVDU, Prof Pragati Kumar; VC SKUAST Kashmir, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai; VC SKUAST Jammu, Prof B N Tripathi; VC Central University of Kashmir, Prof A Ravinder Nath; VC Central University of Jammu, Prof Sanjeev Jain; VC BGSBU, Prof Jawaid Iqbal; VC Cluster University Jammu, K S Chandrasekar; VC Cluster University Srinagar, Prof Mohammad Mobin; Director IIT Jammu, Prof Manoj Singh Gaur; Director IIM Jammu, Prof B S Sahay; Director NIT Srinagar, Prof Anurag Misra; Prof Kavi Arya from IIT Bombay; Director, Cluster Innovation Centre Delhi University, Shobha Bagai, and other members. Discussions focussed on advancing academic excellence, fostering a culture of research and innovation, and strategically aligning institutions to meet future challenges and leverage emerging opportunities. The key agendas included sharing of academic credit and resources and recasting UG and PG programmes in the light of DYD and National Education Policy 2020. The meeting further discussed the modalities to set up a Task Force for integrating AI (Machine Learning, Deep Learning) and Data Science into UG and PG programmes. Emphasising a spirit of collaboration, LG Sinha urged institutions to share academic credits, research laboratories, and resources. Transforming higher education in J&K into a comprehensive, holistic, and visionary system is a shared responsibility. The time has now come to translate Higher Education Council initiatives into tangible achievements, while ensuring that every student benefits from outcome-oriented asset utilisation, he said. Stressing the need for stronger intra-university collaboration, the LG said that successful implementation relies on deep-rooted institutional reform and a solid long-term strategy. He emphasised the integration of Artificial Intelligence and modern technology into learning programmes, stressing the need to pioneer frontier technologies. LG Sinha also highlighted that these programs must incorporate local languages and cultures. Prof Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairman, JKHEC called for policy directives to align undergraduate and postgraduate curricula with the DYD framework. Vice Chancellors and members of the Council shared their inputs for advancing the DYD programme and NEP 2020 interventions. The council also reviewed the progress of ongoing higher education initiatives, engineering kitchens and entrepreneurship programmes, and budgetary outlay and reform of the fund allocation mechanism.
Govt plans instant ban on manufacturing of drugs failing key quality tests
Pharma companies could have their drug licenses suspended immediately if quality tests indicate failure. The health ministry's proposed changes aim to protect public health by enforcing swift action on substandard medications. Regulators would take action upon receiving a government analyst's report declaring a drug not of standard quality. Manufacturers would need to perform a root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to lift the suspension.
Two soldiers killed as army vehicle plunges into gorge in Ladakh
Two Army personnel were killed after their vehicle plunged into a 600-foot-deep gorge at Namika La Pass on the Kargil-Leh national highway on Wednesday. The accident occurred around 1.30 pm when the vehicle veered off the road. Rescue teams recovered the bodies of the driver and co-driver and shifted them to a nearby hospital for postmortem examination.
Div Com Kashmir reviews progress of Jhelum Water Transport Project
Srinagar, Nov 4: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Wednesday chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress made in resolving various issues and bottlenecks affecting the progress of water transport facilities along River Jhelum. The meeting was convened to assess the status of issues faced by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) project and to ensure coordinated efforts among the concerned departments for facilitating the smooth execution and timely advancement of the Jhelum Water Transport Project. The meeting was attended by the Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Deputy Commissioners of Srinagar and Bandipora, Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, representatives of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), and officers from the Public Health Engineering (PHE), Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC), Urban Environmental Engineering Department (UEED) and other concerned departments. During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner undertook a detailed review of the progress on several critical issues requiring inter-departmental coordination and timely intervention. The matters discussed included road widening and removal of trees at Gund Parang, disposal of treated wastewater, and installation of electricity connections and provision of water supply at eight identified locations to facilitate the development of essential infrastructure for water transport operations. He also reviewed the status of shifting electrical utilities at Maharaj Gunj and Pantha Chowk, emphasising the need for expediting the process to avoid any further delays in the execution of project-related works. The meeting further deliberated on the development and improvement of approach roads at Sumbal and Sangam, removal of barricading at Amira Kadal, and shifting of houseboats wherever required to facilitate the smooth movement and operation of water transport facilities along the river. Other important issues reviewed during the meeting included renovation of the Chattabal Navigational Lock, besides relocation of stone-chiselling units and dress vendors operating at Pantha Chowk to ensure that these activities do not impede the progress of the project. Taking stock of the progress achieved so far, the Divisional Commissioner issued a series of directions to the concerned departments, asking them to take necessary measures and resolve the pending issues on priority. He stressed the importance of close coordination among all stakeholder departments and called for a result-oriented approach to address the identified bottlenecks within the shortest possible time. The Divisional Commissioner underscored that the Jhelum Water Transport Project is being closely monitored by the Government of India and, therefore, all concerned departments must demonstrate urgency and ommitment in completing the requisite preparatory works. He impressed upon the officers to accelerate the pace of work, expedite the shifting of utilities and ensure timely resolution of all pending issues so that the project can move forward without unnecessary delays.
Iran exempts ships from India and 3 other nations from transit restrictions in Strait of Hormuz
Dubai, Nov 4 (PTI) Iran has exempted commercial ships from four countries, including India and China, from transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, a top Iranian official has said, amid continued attacks on vessels attempting to cross the strategic waterway. Amir Hayat Moghadam, Deputy Chairman of the Iranian Parliaments National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, made the announcement in an interview with the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA) on Tuesday. We have currently exempted four countries India, China, Iraq and Qatar from transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. Ships from these countries pass freely, and the
Unreserved special Srinagar-Katra express train to run on Nov 5, 6
Jammu, Nov 4: In view of the extra rush of passengers during the festive season-2026, Jammu Railway Division of the Northern Railway has decided to run unreserved special express trains between Srinagar- Katra-Srinagar on November 5 and 6, 2026. According to the Public Relations Inspector (PRI), Jammu Railway Division Raghvender Singh, Srinagar-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra unreserved Special Express (train number 04690), will depart from Srinagar at 11.45 am on November 5 and 6, 2026. This train will arrive at Anantnag at 12.55 pm. At its next halt, Banihal, it will arrive at 1.30 pm and will reach Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station at 3.30 pm on the same day. Similarly, in the return direction, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra-Srinagar unreserved festival Special Express (train number 04689), will depart from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station at 4 pm on November 5 and 6, 2026. En route, this train will halt at Banihal at 6.25 pm. Its next halt will be Anantnag at 7 pm and will reach Srinagar at 7.45 pm on the same day. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Jammu Railway Division, Uchit Singhal said, On the auspicious occasion of upcoming festivals, a considerable increase is being seen in the number of passengers and devotees between Kashmir valley and Katra. Railways is fully committed to providing a comfortable and smooth journey to passengers. With this objective, this special unreserved train is being operated so that passengers travelling at the last moment can get a convenient travel experience and can reach their destination without any inconvenience. Passengers have been requested to contact Railway Helpline number 139, NTES App and official website for more information. According to officials, this train will be fully unreserved. Passengers must take their unreserved ticket before travelling.
Biocon forecasts stronger second half of FY27 with multiple growth drivers despite Q2 profit decline
Biocon anticipates a robust second half of FY27, supported by several key product launches and increasing insulin sales. The company noted a 52% decline in consolidated net profit, attributed to delayed shipments affecting quarterly revenue. Ustekinumab and Aflibercept biosimilars are projected to boost sales in the US market significantly. Additionally, the launch of Pertuzumab in Europe and Brazil is expected to generate substantial revenue.
The Last-Minute Diwali Glow-Up: Skin Treatments Worth Trying and Those You Should Avoid
Professional commitments, approaching deadlines, and unending tasks might make you skip your salon appointments. But you can still make your skin glow with some last-minute treatments, as suggested by a dermatologist. To learn more, read this article.
Omar Abdullahs own MPs, MLAs exposing his govts incompetence: Tarun Chugh
Jammu, Nov 4: BJP National Headquarters In-Charge and Rajya Sabha MP Tarun Chugh, reacting to National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdis resignation, said that even MPs and MLAs from Omar Abdullahs own party are now questioning his governments competence and experience. This growing dissent within the National Conference is a clear reflection of the failure of Omar Abdullahs leadership. Chugh said that the BJP has consistently maintained that the Omar Abdullah government has failed to deliver on its promises, particularly on providing employment opportunities to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. The commitments made to the people during the elections remain unfulfilled, with the government failing to take concrete steps towards implementing its manifesto. He stated that the most telling aspect of the situation is that the governments failures are now being exposed not merely by the Opposition but by leaders from within the National Conference itself. When a partys own MPs and MLAs begin questioning the competence and functioning of their government, it reflects the deepening crisis of leadership within the party. Chugh further said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had voted for the National Conference with expectations of change, employment and development. However, the Omar Abdullah government has failed to live up to those expectations. The people deserve answers on when the promises made in the partys election manifesto will finally be fulfilled.
New Delhi, Nov 4: India is aiming to achieve global competitiveness in ocean research and exploration through indigenous capabilities, international cooperation and global co-creation, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences and MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, said while addressing the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) 2026, organised by the National Maritime Foundation under the Ministry of Defence. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that India's approach to scientific missions in recent years has increasingly been based on a mission-mode framework, bringing together multiple departments and institutions rather than confining research to individual ministries. He highlighted the growing convergence of ocean sciences, space technology, nuclear science, geology, electronics and robotics in advancing India's maritime and deep-ocean capabilities. Highlighting India's indigenous capabilities in deep-ocean exploration, the Minister said that the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai, has developed the capability to conduct trials at depths of 5,000 to 6,000 metres in the Central Indian Ocean Basin. He also referred to the Ocean Mineral Explorer, which enables high-resolution exploration of hydrothermal sulphide deposits, several of which have already been identified.He noted that the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi reference to the Deep Ocean Mission twice in his Independence Day addresses reflects the priority accorded to ocean resources at the highest level and their strategic importance for India's future. Referring to the Samudrayaan Mission, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the Matsya submersible is designed to carry three aquanauts to depths of 5,0006,000 metres. He said that India is progressing towards sending its first human deep-sea mission to a depth of up to 6,000 metres by 2028, marking an important milestone in the country's indigenous deep-ocean exploration programme. Drawing a parallel with India's human spaceflight programme, the Minister said that the country is working towards a remarkable convergence of deep-sea and space exploration. He expressed the vision of having an Indian human being undertake a deep-sea journey to nearly 6,000 metres while almost simultaneously another Indian travels into space, reflecting the country's growing scientific and technological capabilities. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that India's ocean research is increasingly supported by space-based capabilities. He referred to dedicated satellites contributing to ocean-related research through observations of ocean colour, sea-surface temperature and wind vectors. These capabilities, he said, are expanding the scope of ocean observation and could also support future exploration of renewable energy resources from the oceans, including wind and solar energy. Emphasising the importance of a whole-of-government and whole-of-science approach, the Minister highlighted the contribution of different scientific institutions and departments to India's ocean-related missions. He referred to the role of nuclear technology in seawater desalination, including the desalination plant at Kalpakkam established with the support of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and the low-temperature desalination facility in Lakshadweep developed through the Ministry of Earth Sciences. The Minister said these initiatives demonstrate how different scientific disciplines and technologies can work together to address national requirements, including access to potable water in coastal and island regions. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that international cooperation would be equally important in advancing ocean research, as oceans do not follow political boundaries drawn by countries. Issues such as marine pollution and changes in ocean temperature have consequences extending across national jurisdictions, making collective scientific efforts essential. The Minister called for global strategies and partnerships based on joint scientific missions, reciprocal access to research facilities and data sharing. He said India's approach should be guided by the principle of One Ocean, Shared Knowledge and Equitable Prosperity, with the diversity of histories, cultures and geographies across the Indo-Pacific serving as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation. The Minister outlined key priorities for strengthening regional cooperation, including closing observational gaps and improving the forecasting of extreme events; establishing regional climate services partnerships for coasts and islands; promoting responsible and accessible ocean technologies; advancing deep-ocean research; and strengthening conservation and equitable use of ocean resources. Highlighting the role of research and innovation funding, Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to the establishment of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation and the announcement of the 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund to accelerate private-sector participation in research and development. Dr Jitendra Singh said the RDI Fund provides for a 50:50 equity-based approach, encouraging private-sector stakeholders and investors to participate alongside the government in emerging areas of research and technology. He emphasised that government departments, scientific institutions, private-sector stakeholders and investors must work together to develop new sectors and strengthen India's technological capabilities. Connecting ocean exploration with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the Minister said that achieving the country's development goals would require identifying new sources of economic value addition. He observed that a significant part of this potential lies in resources that remain unexplored or underexplored, with the deep ocean representing one of the major opportunities. During the interaction with participants, Dr. Jitendra Singh also addressed a question on the potential of nuclear-powered vessels and the future of clean energy in maritime transport. He referred to the recent opening of the nuclear sector to private participation under the SHANTI Act and India's target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear energy capacity by 2047. He said that the Deep Ocean Mission is also exploring different possibilities for generating renewable energy from the oceans, including through solar panels, ocean winds and temperature or energy gradients. Responding to a suggestion on extending the Swachh Bharat initiative to the oceans, the Minister said that the government had already initiated an annual ocean-cleanliness campaign. Recalling its beginning during the commemoration of 75 years of Independence, he said the initiative had since developed into an annual effort involving coastal district administrations, the Indian Navy, the Indian Coast Guard, NGOs and other stakeholders. He emphasised that marine pollution cannot remain confined to one country and that efforts towards cleaner oceans would benefit the wider Indo-Pacific region. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that India's growing indigenous capabilities, combined with international partnerships and responsible sharing of scientific knowledge, would be crucial to strengthening its role in global ocean research and exploration. He called upon stakeholders to work collectively towards the peaceful, sustainable and equitable use of ocean resources, contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
LG Manoj Sinha chairs J&K Higher Education Council meeting
New Delhi, Nov 4: Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has proposed amendments to Schedule M of the Drugs Rules, 1945, vide G.S.R. No. 953(E) dated 28 October, 2026, to revise the prescribed limits for microbial contamination in Grade A clean areas in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) Technical Report Series (TRS) No. 1044, Annexure 2, on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for Sterile Pharmaceutical Products. Grade A areas are critical zones in sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing, where exposed products, containers and sterilised components are handled. Maintaining stringent microbial control in these areas is essential to ensuring the quality and safety of sterile pharmaceutical products. The proposed revision will harmonise the Revised Schedule M with WHO guidelines and further strengthen the regulatory framework governing sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing in the country. It also provides for treating any microbial growth detected in Grade A areas as a trigger for investigation, in accordance with WHO guidance. The proposed amendment reflects the Government's commitment to strengthening quality standards in pharmaceutical manufacturing, aligning domestic regulatory requirements with international benchmarks and ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products. Stakeholders and members of the public are invited to submit their objections and suggestions, if any, on the proposed amendment to the Under Secretary (Drugs Regulation), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, U-6, Work Hall, C Wing, First Floor, Kartavya Bhawan-1, New Delhi110001, or via email at drugsdiv-mohfw[at]gov[dot]in. The Official Gazette can be accessed through this link: https://egazette.gov.in/(S(vgjbg1v51kl1b3qx5voh12qg))/ViewPDF.aspx.
Inside Park Hospitals' regional playbook: Why North India depth matters more than national reach
Park Hospitals is on an ambitious expansion journey, targeting around 6,600 beds by December 2028 across North India. Their strategy focuses on building hospitals in close proximity for better operational efficiency. The new Prayagraj initiative underscores a successful public-private partnership and illustrates their commitment to enhance healthcare capacity, ultimately improving patient care and resource management in the region.
At Hari Parbat, a rock steeped in 1,400 years of faith
An ancient natural rock worshipped as Lord Ganesha for over 14 centuries, Mahaganesh Temple at the foot of Hari Parbat is steeped in legend and faith, and remains an important stop on Srinagars traditional pilgrimage circuit. Report: Sarosh Kafeel Edit: Afnan Habib
Shorter days and dark afternoons can trigger depression. Here's how to fight back
People prone to seasonal depression are bracing themselves as winter approaches
Union Health Minister J P Nadda to inaugurate AIIMS Awantipora tomorrow
Srinagar, Nov 4: Union Health Minister J P Nadda will inaugurate the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Awantipora in south Kashmir's Pulwama district on Thursday at 10 am, top sources told Kashmir News Service. Sources said preparations for the inauguration ceremony have been made, with the Union Health Minister scheduled to formally inaugurate the healthcare institution on November 5. The AIIMS Awantipora project, sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), has been developed at a revised estimated cost of over Rs 2,160 crore. The institute, planned as a 750-bed tertiary healthcare facility, is expected to strengthen specialised medical services, medical education and research infrastructure in Kashmir. The project has faced repeated delays since its approval, with construction and infrastructure development being reviewed at different levels by the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration. Once fully operational, the institute is expected to reduce the burden on existing tertiary care hospitals in Srinagar and provide advanced healthcare facilities to patients from south Kashmir and other parts of the Valley. Sources said the inauguration would mark a significant step towards making the institution functional, while the commissioning of individual departments and specialised services would depend on their operational readiness. The detailed programme and the range of medical services to be made available immediately after the inauguration were not officially specified.
Imran Farooq posted as SP, CBI Anti-Corruption Branch Jammu
Srinagar, Nov 4: Jammu and Kashmir Police Service officer Imran Farooq has been posted as Superintendent of Police (SP) in the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) Anti-Corruption Branch, Jammu, with immediate effect. According to an official posting order issued on November 3 with the approval of the Director, CBI, Farooq will serve in the agency's Anti-Corruption Branch in Jammu. A 2008-batch JKPS officer, Farooq was inducted into the CBI in March 2025 following approval by the competent authority under the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). His induction was approved for a tenure of four years from the date of assuming charge or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Before his induction into the central investigating agency, Farooq was serving as Additional Superintendent of Police in the Special Branch of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Kashmir. His latest posting places him in the CBI's Anti-Corruption Branch in Jammu, which deals with investigations into corruption and related offences falling within the agency's jurisdiction. The November 3 order specifies his posting to the Jammu branch, following his earlier induction into the CBI on deputation.
CPI(M) condemns govts move to make biometrics, voter ID compulsory for welfare
New Delhi, Nov 4: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) unequivocally condemned the Union governments announcement, made by Minister of Panchayat Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, to replace Aadhaar with biometrics and voter ID (EPIC) as the basis for welfare payments. The party termed the move further assault on the rural poor. It has been repeatedly exposed how biometric authentication denies access to agricultural workers in rural employment schemes. Many elderly women workers have been denied benefits because the machines failed to capture their iris (eyes). Manual labourers are also being excluded because their worn-out thumbprints cannot be matched by the biometric system. E-KYC requires smartphones that most rural households do not own, party in a statement said. It said the government assured the Supreme Court earlier that Aadhaar would not be compulsory, only to surreptitiously impose it across welfare schemes. Now, having touted Aadhaar as foolproof, the government itself is discarding it. This must be seen alongside the exclusionary Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, which is a surgical strike on voting rights and a systematic exercise in mass disenfranchisement. It is estimated that more than 13.4 crore voters have been excluded, with marginalised communities, Muslims, women, and the economically vulnerable disproportionately impacted. Now, demanding Voter ID for welfare will make these schemes even more exclusive. Already, certain state governments are denying ration and other benefits on the pretext that names have been deleted through SIR, a clear violation of the Supreme Court's ruling that electoral roll exclusion cannot affect social welfare entitlements. All these designs point to a concerted effort to deny benefits to a vast majority of the people. The CPI(M) demanded the immediate withdrawal of this exclusionary decision and insists that welfare entitlements be delivered universally, without conditioning them on technology or documents that the rural poor cannot access.
6 Cool Bars In Bengaluru That Are Redefining The City's Nightlife
From check-ins that double as cocktail bars to boundary-pushing drink programs. Bengaluru's fiercely original nightlife is completely rewriting the city's social script.
After T20I Victory, Gautam Gambhir Enjoys An Indian Meal At Saravanaa Bhavan In New Zealand
Team Indias head coach Gautam Gambhir took some time off to enjoy a meal at a Indian restaurant in Auckland.
He Took A Chance On His Wife's Biryani. Decades Later, It's Worth Rs 1,000 Crore
The restaurant started off as Anandha Vilas Biriyani Hotel but soon began to be called Thalappakatti because of the white turban the founder wore.
The Lettermen Singer Tony Butala Dies At 87: What We Know About His Death
The Lettermen singer Tony Butala has died at 87. Here is what we know about his cause of death, his final years, wife and family, and the songs that made him famous.
Video: Passenger Surprised To See Golgappa Cart Next To Baggage Belt At This Airport
The passenger remarked that only a city of true food lovers could have a golgappa cart at such an unexpected spot inside an airport.
Have you experienced a throbbing head after commuting amidst smog and air pollution? This is not normal, as pollutants and toxins can not only cause headaches but also trigger migraines. We spoke to a doctor to learn more about air pollution headaches.
