Indian pharma's risk aversion holding back innovation: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Biocon chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw calls for greater use of digital technology to speed up drug development, as industry leaders push for a shift beyond generics.
When in power, no reforms; after retirement, objections: KEEMA on GCCs statement
Srinagar, Oct 10: The Kashmir Electric Equipment Manufacturers Association (KEEMA) has expressed deep dismay over the objections raised by a group of retired bureaucrats operating under the banner of the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC). In a statement issued on Saturday, KEEMA President Raja Nayeem Ahmad Khan said the apprehensions expressed over the legislation risked undermining progressive economic reforms and discouraging investment in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking on behalf of the industrial and manufacturing fraternity, Khan questioned the timing and intent of the objections, stating that those who had administered the region for decades bore a moral responsibility to explain why practical, pro-growth procedural simplifications could not be envisioned or implemented during their tenures. He said public policy and economic progress could not be held hostage to generalised apprehensions raised after retirement. Khan maintained that the Ease of Doing Business Act was designed to eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic red tape while preserving robust legal and environmental safeguards. Vague warnings about regulatory changes, without identifying specific provisions or demonstrating actual adverse consequences, would only discourage local enterprise and fresh investment, he said. Emphasising the importance of manufacturing and traditional livelihoods, the KEEMA president said modern industrial frameworks were vital for local manufacturing units, traditional handicrafts and artisanal activities that form an important part of Kashmirs economic and cultural foundation. He said legitimate economic activities operating within valid land-use parameters should be supported rather than viewed through a lens of unwarranted suspicion. Highlighting Jammu and Kashmirs employment challenges, Khan said the region needed responsible industrial growth and employment generation. He cautioned that halting progress through speculative opposition could harm youth employment and penalise local manufacturers striving to compete in a modern economy. Khan said KEEMA fully supported a transparent, fair and investment-friendly industrial ecosystem and urged the government to continue implementing reforms that empower local manufacturers. He also challenged the Group of Concerned Citizens to substantiate its claims through an open debate backed by evidence rather than speculative apprehensions. Calling upon the Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) and the wider business fraternity to defend the regions economic interests, Khan urged them to stand against what he described as misinformed interference in the reform process. Let policy be shaped by facts, law, and the public interest, not by unfounded apprehensions, Khan said in the statement.
Encash Mahindra unveils Thar OG at Athwajan showroom
Srinagar, Oct 10:Encash Automotive Pvt. Ltd., an authorised dealership of Mahindra & Mahindra, unveiled the Thar OG at its Athwajan showroom in Srinagar on Saturday. The vehicle was unveiled by Qazi Irfan, Regional Transport Officer (RTO), Kashmir, and Arshad Qadri, Divisional Head, J&K Bank, in the presence of Maham Rouf, CEO of Encash Automotive, senior officials from financial institutions, customers and SUV enthusiasts. Speaking at the launch, Maham Rouf said the Thar OG succeeds the three-door Thar introduced in 2020 and carries forward the iconic SUVs appeal while enhancing its design, capability and everyday usability. She said the new model represents another chapter in the evolution of the Thar, retaining the features and character appreciated by enthusiasts while incorporating improvements aimed at a new generation of customers. Addressing the gathering, Qazi Irfan commended the additions introduced in the Thar OG, including the M_Glyde 4G platform, advanced PENTALINK suspension, DAVINCI damping technology, electronic locking differential and terrain modes. He also emphasised the importance of adhering to traffic regulations and practising safe driving. Arshad Qadri said Mahindra had evolved the Thar for a new generation while preserving its distinctive boxy design, authentic character and strong road presence. Congratulating Encash Automotive on the unveiling, Qadri highlighted the hassle-free vehicle financing facilities offered by J&K Bank to customers seeking to purchase their preferred vehicles. The Thar OG is priced at Rs 10.32 lakh onwards, ex-showroom. The model retains the appeal of the Thar brand while introducing changes aimed at enhancing its design, capability and suitability for everyday use. Established in 2023, Encash Automotive currently operates at four locations across the Kashmir Valley: Athwajan and Lawaypora in Srinagar, Wanpoh in Anantnag district, and Gangoo in Pulwama district.
J&K will always remain our integral, inalienable part: India at UN
United Nations, Oct 10: India slammed Pakistan at the UN, saying it is regrettable that Islamabad continues to abuse the platform of the world organisation by peddling lies and falsehoods about the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. India exercised its Right of Reply in response to a statement by Pakistan in the Fourth Committee of the UN General Assembly Friday on the Agenda Item Decolonization. The Committee deals with Special Political and Decolonization issues. It is regrettable that Pakistan continues to abuse this august forum by peddling lies and falsehoods about the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Member of Parliament Mahima Kumari Mewar said. Delivering Indias strong Right of Reply, Mewar said a country like Pakistan, with an established record of military dictatorship, sham elections, incarceration of popular elected leaders, religious extremism and sponsoring terrorism as an instrument of state policy should, in future, refrain from preaching homilies at this platform. Jammu and Kashmir is and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India, she said. India called upon Pakistan to stop the grave and ongoing human rights violation in the areas illegally occupied by it, where the population is in open revolt against Pakistans military occupation, repression, brutality, and illegal exploitation of resources. Mewar said that in the last few months, the Pakistani armed forces and their proxies have killed dozens of innocent civilians who were agitating for their basic rights, freedoms and basic necessities. Mewar is part of a visiting delegation of 15 Members of Parliament, who arrived here earlier this week for a UN familiarisation trip. The Members of Parliament had a diverse range engagements in the UN during the visit and also met members of the Indian diaspora at a special reception hosted at the Consulate General of India in New York.
Waqf Board to constitute Core Committee for uniform Friday sermons
Srinagar, Oct 10:The Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, under the chairmanship of Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, has decided to constitute a Core Committee of Muftis, Imams and Khateebs to identify and finalise common topics for Friday sermons across shrines, Jamia Masjids and other religious institutions associated with the Board. The decision was taken during a meeting of Maulanas, Muftis, Imams and Khateebs held at the Central Office of the J&K Waqf Board in Sonwar, Srinagar, on Saturday. The meeting was attended by Board Members Dr. Ghulam Haleem and Syed Mohammad Hussain Haqani. Religious representatives associated with institutions across the Jammu Division also participated through video conferencing. During the deliberations, participants discussed the importance of coordination among religious scholars and maintaining uniformity in the themes of Friday sermons across Waqf-associated religious institutions. It was decided that the proposed Core Committee would finalise sermon topics in advance and communicate them to the concerned religious scholars for implementation. The themes will focus on promoting religious awareness, moral values, social harmony, unity and other matters of public and community interest in accordance with Islamic teachings. Chairperson Dr. Syed Darakhshan Andrabi emphasised the importance of collective efforts and effective coordination among religious scholars to ensure that Friday sermons convey a constructive and meaningful message to the public. The initiative aims to strengthen coordination among religious institutions and encourage sermons that promote moral responsibility, unity and harmony within society. Prominent religious scholars who participated in the meeting included Moulana Abdul Rashid Dawoodi of Kaba Marg, Anantnag; Moulana Riyaz Ul Haq Noorabadi of Asari Sharief, Dargah Hazratbal; Moulana Amir Ud Din Shah, Mirwaiz of Charar-i-Sharief; Moulana Abdul Hamid Nayeemi, Imam-o-Khateeb of Zaldagar; Moulana Peer Hessain Qadri, Imam of Jamia Masjid Sonwar; and Moulana Syed Mudassir Geelani, Imam-o-Khateeb of Dastigeer Sahib (RA), Khanyar, Khateeb, Molana Farooq Naqshbandi Jamia Masjid Umar Rail Head,Jammu, Mufti Inayatullah Qasmi Jamia Masjid Talab khatikan Jammu, Mufti Manzoor Ahmed Jamia Masjid Sunjwan Jammu, Molana Syed Ahmed Jamia Masiid Malik Market Jammu, Mufti Mohd Ashraf MisbahiJamia Masjid Reasi, Molana Farooq Misbahi Jamia Masjid Poonch, Molana Farooq Naqshbandi Jamia Masjid Eidgah Rajouri, Molana Gulam Mohiuddin Jamia Masjid Kot Ranka Rajouri and Molana Gulam Rasool Jamia Masjid City Rajouri along with other religious scholars from various districts.
From job seekers to job creators: JKEDI concludes 2 entrepreneurship training batches
Pulwama, Oct 10:The Jammu & Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI), Pulwama, today successfully concluded two batches of the Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programme (ESDP) under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme at the Government Degree College for Women, Pulwama. Organised in collaboration between JKEDI and GDC (W) Pulwama at the district level, the 20-day training programme drew an enthusiastic response from students, who participated actively throughout the sessions. Professor Sami Jan, Principal of the college, attended as the Guest of Honour. The valedictory function was also attended by Nafia Nazir, Range Officer, JKEDI South Kashmir; Raiyees Manzoor, District Nodal Officer, JKEDI Pulwama; Dr. Suraiya, Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce, GDC Women Pulwama and other officers concerned. Addressing the participants, Raiyees Manzoor emphasised the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship is the path to self-reliance. The future belongs to those who embrace emerging opportunities with a positive mindset and choose to become job creators rather than job seekers, he said. Professor Sami Jan expressed satisfaction over the successful conduct of the programme and congratulated JKEDI for organising the 20-day training within the college. She noted that the collaboration between JKEDI and the institution had provided valuable practical exposure to students and would inspire more young women to explore entrepreneurship as a viable career path. Nafia Nazir further motivated the participants, encouraging them to convert the skills acquired during the training into sustainable enterprises and to view entrepreneurship as an empowering career option. The ESDP under the RAMP scheme equips aspiring entrepreneurs with essential competencies in business development, financial planning, and market awareness. Both batches recorded strong student participation and received positive feedback, reflecting the growing interest among youth in enterprise creation. Such district-level partnerships between JKEDI and academic institutions continue to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem and expand self-employment opportunities across the region. The JKEDI team reaffirmed their commitment to providing ongoing mentorship and support to the trainees.
Ashiq Hussain Kar elected president of Beopar Mandal Iqbal Market Sopore
Sopore, Oct 10:Ashiq Hussain Kar has been elected president of Beopar Mandal Iqbal Market, Sopore, defeating his rival candidate, Mehraj Ud Din Masoodi, in an election held on Saturday. The election witnessed strong participation from the trading community, with 254 of the 265 registered voters casting their ballots. According to Election Board Chairman Anaytullah Bhat, Kar secured 139 votes, while Masoodi polled 113 votes. Two votes were declared invalid, giving Kar a winning margin of 26 votes. Following the declaration of the results, Bhat congratulated the newly elected president and thanked the traders for their participation and cooperation in ensuring the smooth conduct of the election. He appreciated the voters for exercising their democratic right and contributing to the electoral process of the traders body. Speaking after his victory, Kar said he would work collectively with all traders, irrespective of their electoral preferences, for the welfare and development of Iqbal Market. He stressed the importance of unity, mutual cooperation and a collective approach to addressing the issues faced by shopkeepers and traders. He also assured the trading community that he would work to ensure their concerns and demands receive due attention. The election is expected to pave the way for renewed efforts to strengthen traders representation and address issues affecting Iqbal Market, one of Sopores prominent commercial centres.
FADA J&K seeks Ease of Doing Business reforms, One UT, One Trade Certificate
Srinagar, Oct 10:A delegation of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), Jammu and Kashmir, led by its chairperson Sanjay Aggarwal, met Transport Minister Satish Sharma to discuss issues affecting the ease of doing business in the automobile sector across the Union Territory. The delegation highlighted procedural difficulties faced by automobile dealerships in obtaining Trade Certificates and called for simplified documentation, uniform implementation of rules and a transparent, time-bound compliance mechanism. During the meeting, Aggarwal said the automobile sector had emerged as an important pillar of Jammu and Kashmirs economy, generating employment for around 20,000 people while contributing to government revenue, consumer services and the growth of the automotive ecosystem. He said further improvements in the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) framework were essential to unlock the sectors potential and encourage fresh investment in the Union Territory. Raising concerns over the Trade Certificate application process, Aggarwal said automobile dealers in J&K were currently required to submit approximately 16 documents to obtain the certificate. He pointed out that the extensive documentation requirements were creating difficulties for dealers and delaying the completion of applications. He also referred to the three-month, one-time relaxation recently provided by the government to eligible automobile dealers who had already initiated the statutory process for obtaining Trade Certificates. However, he said the existing documentation requirements continued to pose significant challenges despite the temporary facilitation. Aggarwal further highlighted the recent closure of some automobile dealerships in J&K, citing the cumbersome documentation process for obtaining Trade Certificates. He stressed the need to rationalise the requirements to ensure that regulatory compliance did not become an unnecessary obstacle to business operations. Referring to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), the FADA chairperson said the documentation requirements prescribed under the applicable rules were considerably fewer than those currently required in Jammu and Kashmir. He urged the government to review the process in line with the relevant provisions of the CMVR. Drawing a comparison with neighbouring Punjab, Aggarwal said the documentation requirement there was understood to be around six documents. He maintained that reducing unnecessary procedural requirements would make compliance easier without compromising statutory obligations. The delegation also called for the implementation of the One UT, One Trade Certificate system in Jammu and Kashmir. Aggarwal said dealerships operating across multiple districts were currently required to obtain separate Trade Certificates for different districts, increasing the compliance burden and restricting operational flexibility. He proposed that a single Trade Certificate should enable a dealer to conduct business anywhere in the Union Territory, describing the arrangement as consistent with the principles of Ease of Doing Business. He cited the GST registration framework, under which branches can be endorsed, as a model for consideration. Aggarwal requested the Transport Minister to issue suitable directions to the concerned authorities for simplifying and rationalising Trade Certificate applications across J&K in accordance with the applicable CMVR provisions. He said such measures would support the governments objectives of improving the business environment, transparency and digital governance. Transport Minister Satish Sharma gave a patient hearing to the delegation, appreciated the concerns and suggestions put forward by FADA J&K, and assured the members that the issues discussed would be addressed on priority.
3rd Edition of Kashmir Marathon: Div Com Kashmir reviews preparations
Srinagar, Oct 10: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg Saturday chaired a meeting to review the preparations for the 3rd Edition of the Kashmir Marathon, taking stock of the arrangements being made by the nodal Tourism Department and other stakeholder departments for the smooth and successful conduct of the event. The meeting, as per an official statement, was attended by the Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Director Tourism, and officers from the departments of Information, PHE, KPDCL, R&B, SMC, YSS, Health, JKTDC, Hospitality and Protocol, SSCL, SRTC, Agriculture, Sports Council, LCMA, SDRF, Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and other concerned departments. During the meeting, it was informed that the Kashmir Marathon will be held on October 25, with a three-day Marathon Expo scheduled to be organised at Polo Ground. The event has attracted significant international participation, with 67 foreign nationals from 12 countries having registered so far. Both the full marathon, covering 42.19 kilometres, and the half marathon, spanning 21.09 kilometres, will be conducted on the same day in the morning. To ensure the safety and well-being of participants, 17 aid stations will be established along the marathon route to provide necessary assistance. Addressing the meeting, the Div Com directed all concerned departments to nominate nodal officers to ensure effective interdepartmental coordination and timely execution of assigned responsibilities. Emphasising the need to enhance the visual appeal of the marathon route, he called for beautification through the placement of potted flowers. He also directed the Roads and Buildings Department to conduct a thorough inspection of the route and ensure that all potholes are filled to provide a smooth and safe running surface. The concerned authorities were further instructed to undertake the pruning of trees along the marathon loop. Highlighting the importance of maintaining the scenic beauty of Srinagar, the Divisional Commissioner stressed the need to ensure cleanliness around Dal Lake. He also directed the deployment of volunteers at appropriate locations and the establishment of medical camps with adequate staff to address any health-related emergencies during the event. Meanwhile, the Traffic Police was directed to publicise designated parking locations well in advance to facilitate participants and ensure the smooth regulation of vehicular movement on the day of the marathon. The Srinagar Municipal Corporation and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited were directed to ensure the proper functioning of streetlights along the marathon route. The Sports Council was instructed to make lighting arrangements at Polo Ground for the smooth conduct of the event. The SMC was further directed to ensure proper cleanliness and sanitation along the marathon route and at the inaugural venue. The Divisional Commissioner emphasised that close coordination among all stakeholder departments and timely completion of preparatory measures would be essential for the successful organisation of the 3rd Edition of the Kashmir Marathon. Highlights Marathon will be held on October 25 67 foreign nationals from 12 countries registered so far Full marathon, covering 42.19 kilometres, half marathon, 21.09 kilometres, to be conducted on same day 17 aid stations to be established along marathon route
Mohammad Qais wins bronze at Junior National Soft Tennis Championship
Srinagar, Oct 10: The 21st Junior National Soft Tennis Championship, which commenced on 05 October, 2026 concluded on Saturday with a grand closing ceremony at Sher e Kashmir indoor Sports Complex. As per a statement issued, Mohammad Qais of J&K won the Bronze Medal in this prestigious National Soft Tennis Championship. The six-day championship witnessed enthusiastic participation from young and talented soft tennis players from across the country. The players displayed excellent skills, discipline, determination, and competitive spirit throughout the tournament. The closing ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Hussain, President Soft Tennis Iran along with dignitaries of Amateur Soft Tennis Federation of India and J&K Amateur Soft Tennis Association were also present on the occasion.
Uphold highest standards of judicial conduct: Chief Justice
Srinagar, Oct 10:Chief Justice High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Dr. Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati, today interacted with judicial officers in the Conference Hall of the District Court Complex, Srinagar, and later attended a felicitation programme organised by the Kashmir Advocates Association. During the interaction with judicial officers, Chief Justice emphasised the importance of discharging judicial responsibilities fearlessly, compassionately and with unwavering commitment to the rule of law. He highlighted the vital role of the judiciary in safeguarding citizens rights, ensuring access to justice and maintaining public confidence in the justice delivery system. Chief Justice stressed that collective responsibility, mutual trust and institutional harmony were essential for strengthening the functioning of courts. He encouraged judicial officers to work collaboratively, uphold the highest standards of judicial conduct and foster a peaceful and conducive working environment. He expressed satisfaction with the professional competence and dedication of judicial officers serving in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and underscored the importance of continuous learning and guidance from senior judicial officers. At the outset, Naseer Ahmad Dar, Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar, welcomed the Chief Justice on behalf of the judicial officers of the district. He expressed gratitude for the interaction and reaffirmed the commitment of the District Judiciary, Srinagar, to quality adjudication, timely disposal of cases and reduction of pendency. Later, the Kashmir Advocates Association organised a felicitation programme at the District Court Complex, Srinagar, to welcome the Chief Justice. Speaking on the occasion, Adv. Waseem Gul, President of the Kashmir Advocates Association, extended a warm welcome to the Chief Justice on behalf of the legal fraternity and also welcomed the newly appointed Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar. Highlighting the role of the District Court as the first accessible forum of justice for ordinary citizens, the Association President emphasised the importance of a constructive partnership between the Bench and the Bar. He assured full cooperation in strengthening the administration of justice and sought the Chief Justices guidance on improving court infrastructure, enhancing facilities for lawyers and litigants, strengthening legal aid, promoting alternative dispute resolution and providing structured training for young advocates. The Association President also announced that the Association had accepted in principle the induction of five women lawyers into its Executive Committee, with the decision to be formalised shortly. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Justice expressed happiness at interacting with members of the Bar and the judiciary at Srinagar. Drawing upon his experience as a lawyer, he emphasised the need to encourage and support women advocates, observing that their active participation was essential for the progress of the legal fraternity. Chief Justice recalled the pioneering contribution of Cornelia Sorabji and stressed the importance of bringing women lawyers to the forefront. Appreciating the Associations decision to induct women members into its Executive Committee, the Chief Justice described lawyers as vital custodians of access to justice and constitutional rights. He urged the legal fraternity to respond to evolving societal expectations and emphasised the need to embrace technology, observing that failure to adapt could leave institutions behind. The programmes underscored the shared commitment of the Bench and the Bar to strengthening the justice delivery system, upholding the rule of law and preserving the dignity and independence of the institution of justice.
150 students participate in annual athletics meet at NIT Srinagar
Srinagar, Oct 10: The Annual Athletics Meet (Men and Women) commenced at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, with around 150 students participating in the event organised by the institutes Student Activity and Sports (SAS) Centre. The meet, as per a statement, aimed to promote physical fitness, sportsmanship and healthy competition while encouraging students to balance academic pursuits with sports and extracurricular activities. Prof. Mohammad Abid Bazaz Dean Students Welfare said sports and extracurricular activities were essential for the holistic development of students. Education is not confined to classrooms. Participation in sports helps students develop leadership, discipline, teamwork and resilience. The institute remains committed to providing students with opportunities to pursue their interests alongside academics, he said. Dr Manoj Kumar, In-charge Faculty, SAS, said the event was part of the institutes efforts to encourage greater participation in sports and fitness activities. Sports play an important role in the overall development of students. The athletics meet provides them an opportunity to showcase their abilities, build confidence and develop discipline and a spirit of healthy competition, he said.
Srinagar Premier Division Football League: AL Muqeet FC beat Kashmir United FC 42
Srinagar, Oct 10: In an exciting encounter of the My Youth My Pride Srinagar Premier Division Football League 202627, AL Muqeet FC registered an impressive 42 victory over Kashmir United FC on Saturday at TRC Synthetic Turf, Srinagar. As per a DFA statement, both teams displayed competitive football, but AL Muqeet FC proved more clinical in front of goal to secure a well-deserved win. The league, organised by the District Football Association Srinagar (DFA Srinagar), continues to provide a competitive platform for local football clubs and emerging talent to showcase their skills.
KU retains 4-star rating under Ministry of Educations Innovation Council framework
Srinagar, Oct 10:The University of Kashmir (KU) has retained its 4-Star Rating under the Institutions Innovation Council (IIC) framework of the Ministry of Educations Innovation Cell (MIC) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). The University secured a total score of 76.79 out of 100 in the latest IIC performance assessment, declared on October 5, 2026. The rating recognises the Universitys initiatives to strengthen its innovation ecosystem and encourage students and faculty members to translate ideas into practical solutions. Institutions securing a 4-star rating are considered among the best-performing institutions with a streamlined campus ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship. The Centre for Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE), Institute of Technology (IoT), Zakura Campus, which also serves as KUs Institution Innovation Council, facilitates activities aimed at nurturing creativity, entrepreneurial thinking and start-up development across the University. Congratulating the CIIE team, Vice-Chancellor, KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said the continued recognition reflected the importance the University places on promoting an innovation-driven academic environment. Retaining this rating is an encouraging recognition of our continued efforts to nurture innovative thinking and entrepreneurial talent. We want our students and researchers to feel empowered to explore new ideas, develop practical solutions and contribute to society through their creativity and enterprise, she said. Registrar, KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, congratulated the team and said the achievement reflected the varsity's commitment to creating opportunities for students and faculty to engage in innovation and entrepreneurship. Director, IoT, Zakura Campus KU, and Chairman, CIIE, KU, Prof. M. Tariq Banday, said the rating shows the collective efforts of the CIIE team in building a culture of innovation and enterprise. Under the MICAICTE framework, the Council undertakes a range of activities throughout the academic year, including innovation and entrepreneurship awareness programmes, expert interactions, ideation and problem-solving sessions, design thinking, intellectual property rights awareness, exposure visits, idea competitions, hackathons, prototype showcases, mentoring and start-up development initiatives. These activities include those prescribed under the IIC calendar, MIC-driven initiatives, celebrations and self-driven programmes, with outcomes documented and reported through the designated IIC portal.
Two men from Punjab arrested with pistol, cash, heroin in Jammu
Jammu, Oct 10: Police arrested two peddlers on Saturday and recovered a pistol, over Rs 1.48 lakh, 22 grams of heroin, an electronic weighing machine and two mobile phones from them, an official said. A police spokesperson said police arrested Sonu Kumar of Chak Murar and Anmol Arora of Amritsar (Punjab) during a vehicle check in the Bishnah area on the outskirts of Jammu, and seized the private car they were travelling in. The latest arrest followed the successful busting of a major cross-border narcotic smuggling racket, which resulted in the arrest of four accused, including a Punjab resident, in the nearby Arnia sector of Jammu on October 5. Police registered an FIR under relevant sections of the NDPS Act and the Arms Act at Bishnah Police Station and opened an investigation. The spokesperson said further investigation is underway to ascertain the source and intended destination of the suspected contraband, the origin of the recovered cash and weapon, and the accused's possible backward and forward linkages with other persons involved in illegal drug trafficking.
LG Sinha sees global capability centres as key to J&Ks industrial growth over next decade
Jammu, Oct 10: Jammu and Kashmirs industrial landscape could undergo a significant transformation over the next decade, with Global Capability Centres (GCCs) becoming a key driver of investment, employment, and economic growth, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said on Saturday. Addressing the valedictory session of the two-day J&K GCC Summit at IIM Jammu, he said the Union Territory could emerge as a major GCC destination, backed by its young talent pool, improving infrastructure, investor-friendly policies, and an expanding innovation ecosystem. He congratulated IIM Jammu, NASSCOM, partner institutions and the administration for successfully organising the summit, urging participants to reflect on a key question about why companies seeking their next talent hub, innovation centre and capacity destination should make Jammu and Kashmir their preferred choice and work together with a strong resolve to make it a reality. Drawing inspiration from the worlds highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River, Sinha said Jammu and Kashmir today reflects the confidence and ambition required to pursue transformational goals. He observed that the Chenab itself, formed through the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, symbolises the spirit of collaboration. In a similar manner, GCCs bring together the global expertise, capital and technology of multinational enterprises with the talent, aspirations and imagination of Jammu Kashmirs youth to create new opportunities for growth and innovation. I see Global Capability Centres in the same spirit of courage and confluence and together they can generate a strength far beyond their separate capabilities, he said. The Lt Governor said India is home to more than 2,100 GCCs that employ over 19 Lakh professionals and contribute substantially to exports. He highlighted that more GCCs are expanding beyond metropolitan centres into Tier-II and Tier-III cities, showing that Indias talent pool is now widely distributed across the country. He said this presents both an opportunity and a responsibility for Jammu and Kashmir to strengthen its institutions, infrastructure and innovation ecosystem. Emphasising the GCC sector's future direction, the Lt Governor said the journey of GCCs has evolved from questions of cost efficiency to excellence and capability. The industrial revolution we are witnessing today in parts of the Jammu division and the Kashmir Valley is a living symbol of the new Jammu Kashmir. In 2020, there were only 69 startups and that number has now risen to 1,305, a growth of over 1,800 per cent. When the energy of young, ambitious graduates from IIM Jammu, IIT Jammu, NIT Srinagar and other universities of Jammu Kashmir is added to these figures, you see a ready workforce emerging, he said. He identified six key advantages that position Jammu Kashmir as an attractive GCC destination, including strong financial support, lower operating costs, special incentives for pioneering multinational investors, the return of local talent, first-mover advantages for early GCC entrants and opportunities in niche sectors such as agri-tech, tourism-tech and handicraft digitisation. Outlining a four-pillar roadmap for the next five years, the Lt Governor stressed talent development through industry-academia partnerships, building trust through credible implementation, leveraging Jammu Kashmirs unique destination advantages and promoting inclusive growth through a hub-and-spoke development model. Expressing confidence in J&K's future, he said GCCs can become an integral pillar of Jammu Kashmirs industrial ecosystem over the next decade. An IIM Jammu spokesman said the summit concluded with deliberations centred on technology and innovation, talent and workforce transformation, investment, and a roadmap to position Jammu & Kashmir as an emerging destination for GCCs. The summit's highlight was a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Indian Institute of Management Jammu and KPMG Advisory Services Private Limited. The collaboration aims to strengthen industryacademia engagement through academic programmes, executive education, research, consultancy, skill development and industry-oriented learning, contributing to talent development and the growth of the GCC ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir, the spokesman said.
Dermatologist Dr Mir Shahnawaz honoured with Best Hair Restoration Research Award in Saudi Arabia
Jeddah, Oc 10: Dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon Dr Mir Shahnawaz has received the REACH Research Award in Saudi Arabia for his research on exosome-containing formulations in male pattern baldness. The award was conferred by Dr Shadi Zari, President of REACH Academy, under the REACH Research Awards on Regenerative Hair Restoration and Regenerative Aesthetics. The honour was accompanied by a research prize of SAR 10,000. As per a statement, Dr Shahnawazs study compared an exosome-containing formulation with autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in men with androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness. His work contributes comparative clinical evidence to an emerging area of regenerative medicine, examining how newer formulations perform alongside established approaches to hair restoration. Dr Shahnawaz is the founder of Dermis Skin, Laser & Hair Transplant Clinic in Bemina, Srinagar. Alongside providing dermatology, laser and hair restoration services, he continues to pursue research that addresses questions relevant to everyday clinical practice. The international recognition marks a meaningful milestone in his research journey and a proud moment for Kashmirs medical community. It also highlights the contribution of Indian clinicians to global scientific discussions on regenerative medicine.
Curbs in Delhi do not reflect well on democracy, Kashmiris no stranger to them: MP Aga Ruhullah
Srinagar, Oct 10: Lok Sabha MP Ruhullah Mehdi criticised the heavy deployment of security forces in Delhi on Saturday to prevent protestors from gathering at Jantar Mantar to demand action against the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), warning that such curbs do not reflect well on democracy. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) called the demonstration demanding the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of masterminding voter-list manipulation during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll, as well as other irregularities involving Form 6, the voter registration form. Mehdi, the MP from Srinagar, said the curbs, though, were not strange to a Kashmiri like him. Heavy security forces in the heart of India's capital to stop citizens reaching Jantar Mantar. This does not speak well of a democracy. Being from Kashmir, none of this is strange to me. We don't cherish it. We warn: this is what happens in Kashmir. Don't let it happen to India, Mehdi said in a post on his official handle on X. Heavy security deployment and restrictions were imposed in the national capital. Authorities detained several opposition leaders, including former chief ministers Arvind Kejriwal, Mamata Banerjee, Pinarayi Vijayan and Manik Sarkar, as they attempted to join the protest. Student activists, lawyers and journalists were also detained. The Delhi Police detained more than 3,000 protesters, who were trying to reach Jantar Mantar for the proposed CJP stir.
Tushar Gandhi, actor Imran Khan among 600 people detained for protesting in Mumbai in CJP's support
Mumbai, Oct 10: Police on Saturday detained around 600 people, including actor Imran Khan, activist Tushar Gandhi and CPI (M) workers, from various locations in Mumbai for protesting without permission in solidarity with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s demonstration in New Delhi. Several protesters complained of manhandling by the police. The demonstrations were held at the August Kranti Maidan, Hutatma Chowk and other locations in the metropolis. At Hutatma Chowk in south Mumbai, several workers of the Prakash Ambedkar-led Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) held a protest. Hundreds of people, including those belonging to Tushar Gandhi-led 'Hum Bharat Ke Log' organisation, and activists of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) assembled at the August Kranti Maidan without permission, and around 200 of them were detained for protesting, a police official said. Overall, around 600 people were detained from various spots across the city, the official said. One of the protesters, Rubaid Bhojani, alleged that the police took the protesters into custody very brutally. We voted for the Prime Minister, but he betrayed us. We demand Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, Bhojani said. Actor Imran Khan was among the protesters detained by the police at the August Kranti Maidan in south Mumbai. Apparently, I am going for a drive, the actor posted on a social media platform from a police van. A video later surfaced, which showed Khan responding to a reporter's query, while he was being forced into the police vehicle, about his participation in the protest. I have no demands. I am not part of any organisation, he said. He was also seen asking the police, What have I done? Why am I being manhandled? A senior citizen with a heart pacemaker alleged that a police constable pulled and pushed her. Another protester alleged that what could have been a peaceful meeting with some slogans and fiery speeches was turned into a brutal spectacle of police dragging people into police vans and detaining them. The protesters were shifted to Gamdevi and Tardeo police stations. Earlier in the day, Tushar Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, was picked up from Bandra and taken to D N Nagar police station. A large number of people gathered outside the police station. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray also visited the police station demanding Gandhi's release. The police finally released Gandhi around nine hours after his detention. Gandhi had earlier shared a poster on X, urging citizens to join a protest at August Kranti Maidan at 3.30 pm. Activist Feroze Mithiborwala was also taken into custody from his home and shifted to the MIDC police station. Meanwhile, additional police personnel, including women officers, were deployed at Shivaji Park in Dadar to prevent CJP members from staging a demonstration. Security was also stepped up at other locations across Mumbai. Authorities maintained that August Kranti Maidan is not designated as a protest site in accordance with a Bombay High Court order, prompting preventive action to maintain law and order. The CJP has called a demonstration at Jantar Mantar against the CEC over allegations of voter-list manipulation during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and changes relating to Form 6, used for voter registration. In Delhi, an unprecedented security clampdown and the detention of over 7,000 protesters, including CJP leader Abhijit Dipke, four former chief ministers and YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, helped the government thwart a planned mass mobilisation at Jantar Mantar.
Airport in Saudi capital has been attacked again, officials say
Cairo, Oct 10: The airport in the Saudi capital has been attacked again, two regional officials said Saturday, two days after three Saudi citizens including a pilot were killed there. One official said the Riyadh airport had been evacuated, and the other said air traffic had stopped. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorised to speak to the media. King Khalid International Airport has been targeted in an extraordinary series of attacks in the week since a Saudi-led coalition launched a major military offensive against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in neighbouring Yemen. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the earlier attacks, including another on Wednesday that killed a Sudanese national and wounded eight other people. There was no immediate Houthi statement Saturday. A Riyadh resident, Ahmed Sayed, told The Associated Press he heard at least two loud explosions that rocked the capital. The airport issued a terse alert telling passengers to check their flight status with airlines before heading to the airport. Fighting in Yemen between the Houthis and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces has escalated, with the Saudi-led coalition providing air support for government forces in an attempt to reverse recent Houthi gains along the Red Sea. (AP)
Budgam man goes missing in UAE, family seeks help
Budgam, Oct 10: A 36-year-old man from Daharmuna village in Budgam district, identified as Jamsheed Ali, son of Ali Mohammad Wani, has reportedly been missing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since October 6, leaving his family worried about his whereabouts. According to his wife, Jamsheed contacted her in the early hours of October 6 and informed her that he had a flight ticket to return home that day. She said the family waited for two days for his arrival, initially assuming that he might have been delayed during his journey. However, when he failed to return, she contacted her brother-in-law and informed him about the situation. Following this, Jamsheeds brother contacted the company where he was employed. The company reportedly informed him that Jamsheed had been absent from work for the previous two days. Meanwhile, his brother has lodged a complaint with Budgam Police regarding his disappearance. He has also emailed a complaint to the Indian Embassy, seeking assistance in tracing Jamsheed and establishing his whereabouts.
124 former IAS, IFS officers write open letter to citizens, defend EC, SIR
New Delhi, Oct 10: A total of 124 former IAS, IFS and allied services' officers have issued an open letter to the citizens of India, strongly defending the Election Commission (EC) and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll, while questioning allegations of vote rigging without credible evidence. Highlighting India's transformation from an era of booth capturing, ballot-box stuffing and poll violence, the officers said today's electoral system has multiple layers of checks and safeguards, including polling agents, EVM sealing, strong-room security and VVPAT verification. They cited last year's Bihar Assembly polls, which recorded no re-polling and the highest voter turnout since 1951. A system cannot be honest when you win and rigged when you lose, the letter said, pointing out that under the same EC, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre lost several state polls as well as its parliamentary majority in 2024. The signatories to the letter include former foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal and former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers R D Kapur, Samirendra Chatterjee, Gopal Krishna, Vivek Bhardwaj and Navneet Sehgal.
Sakina Itoo flags erosion of journalistic ethics on social media
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CAT directs J&K govt to examine regularisation claims of 12 Rehbar-e-Janglaat employees
Srinagar, Oct 10: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Srinagar Bench, has directed the Jammu and Kashmir government to examine the regularisation claims of 12 Rehbar-e-Janglaat employees in accordance with its existing policy and relevant government orders, and issue a reasoned decision, preferably within eight weeks. The direction comes as a significant development for the employees, who completed five years of service in 2022 but have been awaiting regularisation under the government's policy, news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) reported. The Tribunal directed the competent authorities to consider the applicants' claims in light of Government Order No. 155-FST of 2017 and subsequent orders governing the regularisation of Rehbar-e-Janglaat employees. Under Clause VIII of the 2017 policy, employees completing five years of satisfactory and continuous service are eligible for consideration for regularisation, subject to fulfilment of the prescribed conditions. The applicants maintained that despite completing the stipulated service period, their cases had not been settled, prompting them to approach the Tribunal for relief. While examining the matter, the Tribunal took note of the government's earlier decisions concerning the creation and adjustment of posts in the Forest Department. These included the creation of 333 additional Forest Guard posts in 2017 and the subsequent adjustment of 234 supernumerary posts against available vacancies in 2021. The developments were considered relevant to the applicants' claims for regularisation under the existing policy framework. Importantly, the Tribunal also directed the authorities to consider the applicability of the Supreme Court judgment in Rupesh R. Gaonkar and Others versus State of Goa and Others while deciding the matter. It observed that the benefit of the judgment should be extended to the applicants if their cases are covered by the ruling and no legal impediment exists. The Tribunal, however, did not order the immediate regularisation of the employees. Instead, it directed the competent authorities to examine their individual eligibility and claims in accordance with the applicable rules, government orders and judicial precedents. The authorities have been asked to pass a reasoned order, explaining the decision taken on the applicants' claims, preferably within eight weeks from the date of service of the certified copy of the Tribunal's order. The direction places the responsibility on the government to assess the pending claims and communicate its decision within the stipulated timeframe. The matter assumes significance for Rehbar-e-Janglaat employees who have been seeking regularisation after completing the service period prescribed under the government's 2017 policy. The Tribunal's directions have provided the 12 applicants an opportunity for formal reconsideration of their claims, although their regularisation will depend on their eligibility and the applicable legal provisions. (KNS)
CM Omar Abdullah calls for future-ready education beyond examinations
New Delhi, Oct 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today called for a future-ready education system that prepares children for life beyond examinations, equipping them with critical thinking, digital literacy, adaptability and a strong sense of responsibility. The Chief Minister was addressing the School Leader of the Year 2026 Summit & Awards in New Delhi, which brought together leading educators, school principals and institutional heads to celebrate excellence, innovation and leadership in K-12 education. Emphasising the role of school leaders in nation-building, Omar Abdullah said principals and headteachers do much more than administer schools. They shape the learning environment, values, aspirations and future of young minds. Strong leadership, he said, is fundamental to building safe, inclusive, innovative and student-centric institutions. The Chief Minister underscored that education must focus on the holistic development of every child, going beyond academic achievement to nurture creativity, communication, collaboration, problem-solving abilities and digital competence. He stressed that schools must prepare students to meet emerging challenges with confidence and responsibility. Highlighting the opportunities presented by technology and Artificial Intelligence, the Chief Minister emphasised the need to adopt these tools responsibly to improve learning outcomes, personalise education and support teachers, while ensuring that technology complements rather than replaces the human element of education. He also stressed the importance of continuous professional development for teachers and school leaders, noting that exposure to innovative teaching methods, exchange of best practices and opportunities for collaboration are essential to strengthening educational institutions. Omar Abdullah called for an inclusive approach to educational excellence, emphasising that quality education must reach children in rural, remote and underserved communities as well as those in urban areas. He said governments, educators, institutions, parents and communities must work collectively to address the diverse academic, social and developmental needs of children. The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of meaningful collaboration among educational institutions, both within India and internationally, to promote innovation, share successful models and strengthen the quality of education. He observed that recognition of exemplary school leadership helps foster a culture of excellence, encouraging other institutions to learn from successful practices and adapt them to their own contexts. On the occasion, the Chief Minister felicitated the heads of several educational institutions in recognition of their contributions. Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technologys Achyuta Samanta; Executive Chairman, Association of Indian Principals, (AIP), Dalip Sharma; CTO, AIP and CEO, City Innovates Kashish Jhamb and Managing Director, Macmillan Education India, Rajesh Pasari, were among those present. Chancellors and senior officials from Indian and international universities, officials from Austrade, school founders, directors, principals and heads of schools from across the country also attended the summit.
Police recover huge cache of arms, ammunition in Sopore forests
Srinagar, Oct 10: In a major breakthrough, Sopore Police recovered a huge cache of arms, ammunition and explosives from the forest area of Mukaam Cherhar under the jurisdiction of Police Station Bomai. In a statement issued, the police said acting on specific intelligence inputs generated by Sopore Police, a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) was launched in the forest area. During searches, a blue coloured barrel and a bag were found concealed beneath a large boulder. The Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) was immediately called to the spot for examination and safe handling of the suspected explosive material. During thorough searches, police recovered 02 assault rifles including 01 AK-47 and 01 AK-76 along with 07 magazines, 04 pistols with 04 magazines, a Multi Grenade Launcher (MGL) with 05 rounds, 11 hand grenades, 03 IEDs with remote controls, 08 detonators and 02 timers. Other incriminating material including a Y-SMS set, prima cords, wires, battery cells, IED-related components and miscellaneous accessories were also seized from the spot. The recovered arms and explosives were taken into possession after following due legal procedure and observing necessary safety precautions. In this connection, FIR No. 66/2026 under Sections 13, 18, 20 and 23 of UAPA, 7/25 Arms Act and 5 Explosive Substances Act has been registered at Police Station Bomai and further investigation has been taken up. Police said the recovery is a significant achievement in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. Investigation is underway to establish the source, ownership and those involved in concealment of the cache and to ascertain possible terror linkages, police statement added.
Russian attacks kill 12 in Ukraine after Trump strikes diesel deal with Putin
Kyiv, Oct 10: Russian strikes killed at least 12 people in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Saturday, a day after US President Donald Trump announced a deal to buy Russian diesel that Kyiv warned would help bankroll Moscow's war in Ukraine. Three children were among those killed when Russian aerial bombs hit residential buildings in Zaporizhzhia, Zelenskyy said Saturday. At least 14 people were wounded in the attack. Russia and Ukraine are locked in a long-range aerial war while their armies remain largely deadlocked on the front line, more than 4 1/2 years since Moscow's full-scale invasion. Ukraine is struggling to counter escalating Russian bombardments that have killed more than 60 people over the past four days. Trump said Friday he had struck a deal to obtain diesel from Russia, a stunning reversal of years of US pressure on Moscow over its war with Ukraine and an attempt to address high fuel prices ahead of the US midterm elections. Today, Russia expressed its thanks for the lifting of sanctions on diesel exports by dropping five glide bombs on residential buildings in Zaporizhzhia, Zelenskyy wrote Saturday on X. He said the attacks show Moscow understands any easing of pressure to mean they can keep fighting, to mean they can keep dropping bombs on cities, adding that different signals are needed. Trump had been set to discuss a suspected case of plague in Russia with President Vladimir Putin in a phone call. Instead, the American leader announced Friday that Russia will immediately supply more than 300,000 tons of diesel, followed by an additional 500,000 tons in November and 1 million tons immediately thereafter. Russia will deliver an additional 3 million tons within a short period of time after that, he wrote. In Kyiv, people gathered at a memorial to fallen soldiers on Independence Square greeted the deal with a mix of anger and resignation. Trump has once again shown his true face, said Oleksandr Petrenko, 26. He didn't care about the situation, the shelling or the destruction of our homes. All he's interested in is oil or the fuel prices and how much Americans have to pay. Knowing Trump, he tries to manipulate the markets. He's got an election coming up soon, Petrenko said. So he needs to emphasise to his voters that gasoline will be cheap. But it won't be effective. For Oksana Yakunina, a financial adviser from Kropyvnytskyi, the announcement didn't really come as a surprise. Trump has been working with Putin for a long time, she told The Associated Press. Trump's announcement was in stark contrast to a sweeping Russia sanctions law he signed last month that aimed at clamping down on the oil and gas revenues that fuel Russia's war against Ukraine. In a lengthy post online reacting to the deal on Friday, Zelenskyy said Russia would repay it with further terror and perfidy. He framed it as an investment in the war that could prolong it. It plays into Russia's hands -- allowing it to kill more, wage war for longer, have even less respect for America, and inflict even greater losses and damage on the world, he said. According to a statement released by the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington, Zelenskyy called it a weak decision, unfortunately, a weak decision by strong partners. Trump announced the deal as his envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner met with Ukrainian officials in Miami to discuss a proposal to end the war. I believe our team is simply being used as a smoke screen. And that is certainly not fair. It is certainly not how partners should treat each other, Zelenskyy said. [AP]
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FCIK expresses strong resentment over GCC's 'misleading' apprehensions on Ease of Doing Business Act
Srinagar, Oct 10: The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) has expressed deep anguish and strong resentment over the apprehensions voiced by the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) regarding the recently enacted Jammu and Kashmir Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, describing its observations as misleading, speculative and detached from the harsh realities endured by the industrial fraternity for decades. In a statement, FCIK said it was particularly disturbing that some former senior bureaucrats, who themselves occupied influential administrative positions when entrepreneurs struggled under excessive regulatory controls, should now question reforms intended to dismantle that very system. The Federation recalled that it had consistently sought comprehensive Ease of Doing Business reforms for decades, including during the tenures of some officers now associated with GCC. Repeated representations had highlighted the ordeal of entrepreneurs moving endlessly between departments for permissions, renewals and clearances, encountering overlapping jurisdictions, arbitrary inspections and prolonged administrative indecision. Thousands of entrepreneurs have suffered humiliation, financial losses and uncertainty under a system where their investments and livelihoods remained hostage to bureaucratic discretion. These reforms represent a long-awaited opportunity to free enterprise from that stranglehold, FCIK observed. The Federation said political disturbances, natural calamities and economic uncertainty had already devastated industrial growth, while excessive bureaucratic control compounded these difficulties, discouraging investment, obstructing expansion and frustrating employment generation. FCIK maintained that GCC appeared to have overlooked important provisos, exceptions and safeguards incorporated in the Act concerning environmental protection, human safety, larger public interest and specified planning restrictions. The legislation seeks to eliminate unnecessary procedural barriers, not dispense with substantive statutory obligations. The Federation questioned how GCC could draw sweeping conclusions about environmental degradation and unregulated development without demonstrating which mandatory safeguards had actually been extinguished. Referring to apprehensions about deemed approvals, inspection moratoriums and Master Plan relaxations, FCIK said time-bound decisions and risk-based regulation were established instruments of administrative reform intended to prevent official inaction from becoming an indefinite veto over lawful enterprise. An inspection undertaken to prevent genuine environmental harm or danger to human life is entirely different from one conducted merely because an officer possesses the authority to do so. The former protects society; the latter, when exercised arbitrarily, becomes an instrument of harassment, the Federation stated. FCIK also rejected the suggestion that Ease of Doing Business and Ease of Living were contradictory objectives. An enterprise, it said, was not merely a source of income for its promoter but generated employment, supported ancillary businesses, sustained families and contributed to public revenue. How can there be meaningful ease of living without opportunities for earning a dignified livelihood? For an unemployed graduate, a struggling artisan or a family dependent upon a distressed enterprise, productive economic activity is itself an essential component of ease of living, FCIK observed. The Federation emphasised Kashmir's traditional household-based production economy, where activities such as sozni embroidery, shawl making, carpet weaving, papier-mch, handloom production and wood carving have historically sustained generations of families with negligible or low environmental impact, depending upon the processes involved. FCIK said its aspiration was to see every willing household in Kashmir become a potential production centre, enabling women, youth and other family members to supplement incomes while preserving traditional craftsmanship. Such genuinely non-polluting activities should not be burdened with unnecessary permissions merely because they involve commercial production. Turning to environmental concerns, FCIK questioned why the historical failures of regulatory institutions were receiving so little attention in GCC's discourse. During whose administrative tenures did wetlands suffer encroachments, water bodies deteriorate, agricultural land undergo indiscriminate conversion and unplanned construction proliferate? Jammu and Kashmir already possessed extensive environmental and planning laws when much of this degradation occurred. Multiple permissions and powerful regulatory authorities did not, by themselves, prevent these developments, the Federation observed. FCIK clarified that these questions concerned institutional accountability rather than personal blame. It also asked the former administrators associated with GCC to reflect upon what initiatives they had undertaken during their respective tenures to simplify procedures, eliminate redundant permissions, curb arbitrary inspections and hold officers accountable for delays, particularly when FCIK had repeatedly sought such reforms from successive administrations. The Federation appreciated the efforts of the present administrative establishment under Chief Secretary AtalDulloo in advancing a renewed regulatory framework aimed at replacing discretionary permissions with transparent, time-bound and accountable governance. It also commended Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his government for refining and carrying these reforms through the legislative process. FCIK said investors today compared states on regulatory predictability, infrastructure, incentives, administrative responsiveness and the cost and time involved in establishing enterprises. Jammu and Kashmir, already disadvantaged by decades of disruptions and accumulated industrial distress, could ill afford to lose further investment and employment opportunities because of outdated administrative practices. The Federation stressed that environmental protection and economic development were not mutually exclusive. It said the safeguards and qualifications contained in the legislation must be faithfully reflected in the forthcoming rules, ensuring that environmental, planning and safety obligations remain enforceable while unnecessary bureaucratic interference is eliminated. FCIK called upon GCC to substantiate its apprehensions through specific statutory references, technical evidence and workable alternatives rather than allowing speculative concerns to overshadow the long-overdue reform of an oppressive regulatory system. The industrial fraternity has waited decades for a system in which an entrepreneur remains answerable for violating the law but is no longer perpetually dependent upon an officer's discretion to undertake lawful economic activity, the Federation stated. FCIK concluded that the real success of the legislation would be measured when entrepreneurs could devote more time to production, innovation and employment generation and less to pursuing files and permissions. It expressed hope that the forthcoming rules would preserve the reform's original intent and prevent the reintroduction of unnecessary bureaucratic controls under different names.
J&K witnesses rapid growth in mobile phone penetration
BJP to launch district-level protests against Omar government: LoP Sunil Sharma
Srinagar, Oct 10: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch district-level protests against the National Conference-led government in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing it of ignoring the concerns of poor and disadvantaged sections of society. Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma said the party had decided to take the issues to the streets after discussing them at a meeting of its district presidents and district general secretaries. The BJP's responsibility in Jammu and Kashmir is that of the opposition. The government here is working in a manner that keeps it miles away from the common people, particularly the poor, Sharma told reporters. He said the party had tried to raise these issues in the Legislative Assembly but had not received a satisfactory response from the government. We cannot turn a blind eye to these issues and difficulties. We have decided that we will take up the cause of the poor and the oppressed and fight the government on the streets, he said. Sharma said the party would organise protests in every district of Jammu and Kashmir in the coming days to hold the government accountable. Sharma alleges conspiracy to destabilise India Asked about protests in Delhi against the Election Commission and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Sharma accused the Congress and other opposition parties of attempting to destabilise the country. This is a big conspiracy to destabilise India and create unrest by involving as many young people as possible, he said, alleging that some forces wanted a change of regime similar to developments in Nepal and Bangladesh. He accused the opposition of trying to generate public distrust in the Chief Election Commissioner, who heads a constitutional institution, and said electoral defeats should not be blamed on the poll machinery. The party that has been losing elections continuously for the last 12 years now claims that the Chief Election Commissioner, who took office a year ago, is responsible for its defeats, Sharma said. Defending the SIR exercise, Sharma argued that electoral rolls should not contain duplicate, deceased or otherwise ineligible voters. As a resident of Jammu and Kashmir, I support the SIR. We should never allow an illegal voter to vote here, he said, referring to alleged cases of people from Bangladesh and Pakistan voting in India. Sharma cited figures of 6.5 crore voters who had moved from one location to another, 2.5 crore deceased voters and one crore voters whose addresses could not be traced. He argued that voters who had shifted residence or died should be removed from the relevant electoral rolls. Should a voter be registered in two places? Should the names of people who have died remain on the rolls? Should voters whose addresses cannot be traced remain there? he asked. The figures and characterisation of voter deletions were cited by Sharma in defence of the exercise and have not been independently verified here. Challenges Omar Abdullah on delimitation Responding to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's allegation that the delimitation exercise in Jammu and Kashmir had benefited the BJP, Sharma said the National Conference had gained the most from it. If he believes that the BJP or the Election Commission manipulated the process, the biggest moral responsibility lies with Omar Abdullah. He should leave the government, Sharma said.
J&K Waqf Board calls for role of Imams in fighting social evils
New Delhi, Oct 10: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the participants of the second edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur on October 10, 2026. Hosted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) from 26 September to 12 October 2026, the multinational air exercise brought together air forces from seven Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) including Australia, Bangladesh, France, Germany, Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates and the United States of America along with 32 observer nations. Congratulating the IAF and all organisations and personnel involved in the successful conduct of the exercise, the Defence Minister welcomed the participating nations and appreciated their contribution to strengthening professional understanding and operational cooperation. He noted that the presence of participating air forces had added significant value to the exercise and expressed hope that the contingents would return with valuable professional insights and a deeper understanding of India's capabilities and perspectives. He highlighted the importance of self-reliance in the defence sector, technological innovation and international partnerships in addressing the evolving challenges of modern warfare. Addressing the gathering, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh observed that modern warfare was undergoing a profound transformation, extending beyond the traditional domains of land, sea and air to encompass space, cyber, the electromagnetic spectrum and the information domain. He highlighted the growing influence of unmanned systems, drones, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare and long-range precision weapons in shaping contemporary military operations. Future military power will be defined less by the number of platforms we possess. It will be determined by the speed of sensing, understanding, deciding, and acting, he said, underlining that speed, precision, information and integration had emerged as defining attributes of military capability. He also emphasised the need for continuous vigilance in view of the rapidly changing geopolitical environment and the uncertainties associated with technological advancements in the defence sector. The Defence Minister said that India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had recognised the importance of strengthening national resilience against emerging security challenges and had adopted Atmanirbharta in defence as a national policy. He stressed that a nation must possess the capability to produce its own weapons and critical technologies to sustain itself during prolonged conflicts and periods of uncertainty. Highlighting the transformation of the Indian Defence Forces, Defence Minister said that the Indian Air Force had evolved from a force operating with limited resources at the time of Independence into a modern aerospace power equipped with advanced aircraft, precision weapons, sophisticated sensors, integrated networks and increasingly advanced indigenous technologies. He emphasised that Atmanirbhar Bharat did not mean isolation from the world, but the development of domestic capabilities to design, develop, manufacture, maintain and upgrade critical defence technologies. Referring to India's growing aerospace and defence manufacturing ecosystem, the Defence Minister highlighted indigenous programmes and systems, including the Tejas fighter aircraft, helicopters such as Dhruv, Rudra, Prachand and the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), the Akash air defence system, AESA radars, electronic systems, and emerging unmanned and aerospace technologies. Defence Minister also referred to the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme as an important step towards mastering fifth-generation stealth fighter technology and underscored the importance of advanced aero-engine development and co-production. He said that India was keen to explore cooperation with like-minded countries in research, co-development, co-production, maintenance, training and innovation. Emphasising the growing importance of trusted partnerships and resilient supply chains, he stated, The defence relationships of the future will be about technology and trust, not just about platforms. The Defence Minister observed that building strong indigenous capabilities must go hand in hand with meaningful cooperation with trusted partners. India must be capable of acting independently when required while also operating effectively with other nations when their interests and responsibilities converge, he emphasised. In this context, Defence Minister highlighted the significance of Exercise Tarang Shakti in translating the principles of capability, technology, interoperability and trust into operational experience. The exercise provided participating air forces an opportunity to operate alongside one another, exchange operational knowledge, assess procedures and understand different platforms, doctrines and approaches to mission planning. He noted that multinational exercises enabled aircrews and commanders to learn from one another, examine existing assumptions and identify opportunities to improve their systems and processes. Describing the spirit of the exercise, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, Different nations. Different aircraft. Different experiences. But one sky. That is the message of Tarang Shakti. He emphasised that the value of the exercise extended beyond the sorties flown and scenarios practised, encompassing the ability to communicate, coordinate and operate effectively with partner forces. The RM called upon the Indian Air Force to incorporate the lessons of the exercise into its training, tactics, technology, doctrine and future capability development. He expressed confidence that the participating nations would carry forward the professional relationships and mutual understanding developed during the exercise to explore new avenues of aerospace and defence cooperation. The second edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti builds on the success of its inaugural edition in 2024 and reinforces India's commitment to constructive defence engagement and international cooperation. The exercise brought together diverse combat, transport, surveillance and air-to-air refuelling capabilities, providing opportunities for joint mission planning, operational learning and enhanced interoperability. The participation of indigenous platforms, including the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, also highlighted India's progress in indigenous aerospace design, engineering and manufacturing. The contemporary relevance of the exercise is underscored by the decisive role of air power in Operation Sindoor, which demonstrated the Indian Air Forces ability to execute precise, calibrated and effective operations in furtherance of national security objectives. The operation highlighted the importance of operational preparedness, integrated planning, credible deterrence and the effective application of air power in a complex security environment. The experience gained from operational employment reinforces the value of multinational exercises such as Tarang Shakti in advancing professional understanding and preparing for the evolving challenges of modern warfare. Beyond flying operations, the exercise featured professional engagements, industrial visits and cultural interactions, including yoga sessions, heritage visits and an International Night celebrating the traditions of participating nations. Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, other dignitaries, officials of the Ministry of Defence and participating countries attended the event.
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The habit of sitting on the toilet seat for a long time may not only cause constipation, but it can also increase the risk of pelvic disorders. For more information, read this article.
Public feedback key to improving Police functioning: SSP Baramulla
Baramulla, Oct 10: Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla Gurinderpal Singh on Saturday urged people to approach the police with their grievances and provide direct feedback on the functioning of officers, saying public cooperation and accountability within the force were essential for improving policing. Addressing media persons in Pattan regarding several theft cases solved by Baramulla Police, SSP Baramulla said the police were committed to resolving public grievances and would make every effort to address complaints related to theft, lost mobile phones and other offences. He credited the success of the investigations to the professionalism of police personnel and the cooperation extended by the public, saying the teams worked independently and demonstrated professional competence. The most important thing for success is the public, Singh said, adding that complainants and civilians assisted investigations by providing CCTV footage, statements, information and other technical evidence. He urged people to maintain faith in the Police and approach the department whenever they faced a problem. We are always at your service 24x7, 365 days, he said. He added that the Police would make every possible effort to resolve cases and public grievances. On accountability, SSP Baramulla said the public must use the hierarchy available if they were not satisfied with the progress of any investigation. He said complainants could first approach the investigating officer and then escalate the matter to the concerned police post or police station in-charge, the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) and the SSP. If thegrievances still remain unaddressed, people can approach senior officers, including the Deputy Inspector General and Inspector General of Police, he added. SSP Gurinderpal Singh said the police hierarchy operated within established rules and norms of accountability and responsibility. People must inform senior officers if they feel an officer at any level is not performing effectively, he said. He said such feedback should not necessarily be viewed as a complaint against an individual, as it could help identify areas requiring training or other corrective interventions. If a person needs training, we will focus on training, he said, adding that feedback from the public would help the department identify shortcomings and improve its functioning. The SSP also stressed that rehabilitation of offenders required a collective effort involving families, communities and the government. He said Police alone could not ensure reform, saying it was a whole-of-society and whole-of-government responsibility. The family of an accused person, the immediate social environment and government interventions all had a role to play in preventing repeat offences, he said. SSP Baramulla however said that an individual's willingness to change remained crucial, saying that the best rehabilitation facilities and policies would have limited impact if an offender was unwilling to abandon criminal activity. Police uses legal procedures, arrests, prosecution and court trials to make repeat offenders understand the consequences of their actions and their impact on society, he added. He said that while most people improved after their first involvement in an offence, those who repeatedly engaged in criminal activity required stronger legal action. Enhanced prosecution and punishment measures are available to deal with habitual offenders, he added.
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Stone pelting at police personnel near Akashwani Bhawan; two police personnel injured
New Delhi, Oct 10: Protesters allegedly stone-pelted security personnel at Imtiaz Ali Marg near Akashwani Bhawan after toppling barricades during the proposed Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) stir against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in the national capital on Saturday, officials said. Around noon, 25 to 30 protesters jumped barricades on Imtiaz Ali Marg and stone-pelleted at security personnel, they said, adding that some of them have been detained and two police personnel were injured in the process. Police have detained about 500 people as protesters attempted to reach Jantar Mantar despite authorities denying permission to protest and enforcing strict security measures across the New Delhi district. Several protesters were chased and detained as they tried to regroup at different locations and evade the security cordon. The protest was scheduled to begin at 10.30 am, but police and paramilitary personnel prevented participants from reaching the designated area, where prohibitory orders are in force. Several protesters were detained from locations including Connaught Place, while many others were sent back.
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US-brokered ceasefire was supposed to end war in Gaza. A year later, progress has stalled
Dubai, Oct 10: It's been a year since a ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump and Arab allies promised to end the war in Gaza, and Israel is still launching deadly strikes on the devastated territory. The agreement halted major military operations, freed all remaining hostages and increased humanitarian access. But it has failed to deliver on promises of a new Palestinian administration aided by international forces, the disarmament of Hamas and an end to Israel's control over more than half the territory. Almost nothing has been rebuilt. Israel has tied any progress on the other issues to Hamas' complete disarmament, while the militant group -- and the Trump administration -- say they should happen simultaneously. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hardened his stance over the summer, openly defying Trump, his most important ally, ahead of Israeli elections later this month. The wrangling has left Gaza's 2 million Palestinians in limbo. Most are sheltering in rodent-infested tent camps, the rubble of their former neighbourhoods or war-damaged buildings at risk of collapse. In the Jabaliya area of the northern Gaza Strip, Abdullah Abu Zubaida's family lives in a makeshift shelter built from the debris of their house. When the ceasefire began last October, we expected the war to halt, assassinations to cease, and aid to flow in, he said. None of that has happened. For Ne'man Abu Jarad and his family, displaced from Beit Lahia in northern Gaza to Khan Younis in the south, the truce also has brought no clear path home. The family, including five daughters, continues to live in tents. The ceasefire is merely nominal, ink on paper, Abu Jarad said. Early success raised hopes of ending the war The 20-point ceasefire agreement, reached after months of negotiations under the Biden and Trump administrations, ended major military operations and led to the return of all the remaining hostages taken in Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, attack that ignited the war. Hamas-led militants killed some 1,200 people that day and abducted 251. Israel responded with massive bombardment and a ground invasion that has killed more than 74,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The ministry, part of the Hamas-run government, maintains detailed records and is seen as generally reliable by UN agencies and independent experts. It does not distinguish between civilians and militants in its toll but says women and children make up around half the dead. After the deal was announced, Trump called for a new era of harmony in the Middle East. We have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to put the old feuds and bitter hatreds behind us, he said at a summit marking the deal. The agreement called for much more The agreement called for Hamas to hand over power to a committee of Palestinian administrators vetted by the Board of Peace, a new body chaired by Trump and charged with implementing the ceasefire. The militants officially dissolved their government in July but left the civil service intact and remain the dominant power in the roughly 40 per cent of Gaza not controlled by the Israeli military. Israel has meanwhile barred the new Palestinian administration from entering Gaza via Egypt. The formation of an International Stabilisation Force was announced in February but has yet to materialise. Indonesia, which pledged the largest troop contingent -- 8,000 soldiers -- put those plans on hold last spring as the world's focus shifted to the Iran war. Israel was supposed to withdraw from Gaza but has instead seized more territory, pushing the so-called yellow Line of Control westward toward the Mediterranean Sea. It has also carried out regular strikes on individuals it accused of violating the ceasefire, approaching the yellow line or having taken part in the Oct. 7 attack -- strikes that have often killed civilians. Israeli strikes have killed over 1,400 Palestinians since the ceasefire took effect, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Sporadic attacks have killed five Israeli soldiers in Gaza in the same period. More deadlock after Netanyahu defied Trump In July, Trump announced a deal to disarm Hamas, portraying it as a breakthrough in the long-stalled process. That deal, an extension of the original ceasefire, called for Hamas to disarm in a gradual, sequential and time-bound manner that is linked to an Israeli withdrawal, in phases. Hamas confirmed for the first time that it had agreed to disarm, also linking it to Israel halting its strikes and withdrawing from Gaza. Days later, Netanyahu announced that Israel would not withdraw from any part of Gaza until after Hamas has been completely disarmed, explicitly rejecting the agreement announced by Trump. The rare instance of friction between the two allies came as Netanyahu seeks to shore up his nationalist base ahead of Oct. 27 elections that could end his nearly unbroken 17-year rule, the longest in Israel's history. Netanyahu has come under fire over security and intelligence failures leading up to the Oct. 7 attack, with opponents accusing him of having been soft on Hamas. That gives him little space to make even minor compromises on Gaza, at least until a new government is formed, which could take months.
Worse than Emergency, we are living under dictatorship: Arvind Kejriwal
Arvind Kejriwal has criticized the central government's security clampdown in Delhi regarding the CJP protest. He stated that the situation is worse than during the Emergency. Kejriwal accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of using fear tactics to suppress democracy. Additionally, he called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar due to alleged electoral fraud.
Five landmines found, defused along LoC in J-K's Poonch
Mendhar, Oct 10: Five landmines were detected and safely destroyed by the Army along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Saturday. While two landmines were detected by an Army patrol party near the border fence in Basoni top area on Saturday morning, three others had been found in the same area the previous day, the officials said. They said the explosives were subsequently destroyed through controlled explosions by the Bomb Disposal Squad of the Army without causing any damage. The forward areas along the LoC are dotted with landmines as part of an anti-infiltration obstacle system. However, heavy rainfall can sometimes wash away the mines, causing them to surface in areas where they may pose a potential risk.
Delhi Police chases CJP protesters, detain top leaders
New Delhi, Oct 10: Delhi Police on Saturday chased Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protesters attempting to reach Jantar Mantar, detaining several as they regrouped and tried to evade the security cordon. Abhijit Dipke, Saurav Das, and Ashutosh Ranka, the leaders of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), were detained at Delhi airport as they landed. The protest was scheduled to begin at 10.30 am, but the police and paramilitary forces deterred the participants from reaching the Jantar Mantar site, which has been turned into a fortress, by detaining several and sending back many more. The police top brass monitored the situation and supervised the deployment made across the New Delhi area which has been divided into 20 sectors. As protesters, many of them women, attempted to regroup at different locations, police chased them down and detained them in buses. A few agitators entered a gurdwara in the area amid the police action. The police maintained a strict vigil across the district, with personnel deployed at key intersections and approach roads to prevent any gathering near Jantar Mantar. The police earlier denied permission for a protest at Jantar Mantar and imposed prohibitory orders in the zone. Security forces carried out a flag march in the area and appealed to people to abide by the orders in force.
BJP govt will deal with 'anarchists' sternly: Nitin Nabin warns Rahul Gandhi, Kejriwal and CJP
New Delhi, Oct 10: BJP president Nitin Nabin on Saturday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal and the CJP of attempting to destabilise the country with the backing of foreign forces, and asserted that the government will deal sternly with their ill intentions, while the party workers will foil their design on the ground. Speaking to reporters here, Nabin alleged that Gandhi, Kejriwal and the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) are resorting to create anarchy because they cannot digest the country's progress under Prime MInister Narendra Modi's leadership. An attempt is being made to create a state of anarchy in the country. Efforts are underway to destabilise the country and its 140 crore people. Who is doing this? They are two anarchic groups, one led by 'INDI Alliance' leader Rahul Gandhi, and the other led by Arvind Kejriwal and his associate CJP, he added. The BJP chief said both groups are trying to compete with each other to prove who is the greater anarchist, pointing out that the people of India are fully aware of their objectives. I give a clear warning to you today that the 'bikau' politics you are pursuing and attempting to destabilise India in collusion with foreign forces will never succeed. I warn you today that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the patriotic people of this country will give you a fitting reply, Nabin said. The Government of India will deal sternly with the situation as you attempt to stoke tension, and BJP workers, remaining firmly among the people, will thwart these designs of yours, he added.
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Abhijeet Dipke, two other CJP leaders detained after landing in Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 10: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Saturday claimed that its leaders Abhijeet Dipke, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were detained from inside the aircraft by Delhi Police as soon as their flight landed in the national capital. The CJP leaders had arrived here from Mumbai for their proposed protest at Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. In a video shared by the CJP, Dipke can be heard telling police officers who entered the aircraft that, We are here to be arrested, come and arrest us. Before detention, police personnel told the CJP leaders that they don't have permission to hold their protest at Jantar Mantar. Dipke said CJP leaders are being detained as if they are criminals. In a statement, the party condemned the alleged detentions, claiming they were part of a pre-planned move to prevent its leaders from reaching the site of their proposed protest. The CJP described the action as a violation of freedom of movement and demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the three leaders. The CJP has called the proposed demonstration at Jantar Mantar against the CEC over allegations of voter-list manipulation during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and changes relating to Form 6, used for voter registration.
Oil tanker with 22 Indian crew members attacked at Sharjah Anchorage; all reported safe: Sonowal
New Delhi, Oct 10: Shipping Minister Sarbanada Sonowal has said that Panama-flagged crude oil tanker MT GEM NO. 2, carrying a crew of 22 Indian nationals, was subjected to a drone attack at Sharjah Anchorage on October 9. Sonowal, in a post on X, further said that he was relieved to share that all 22 Indian seafarers onboard were reported to be completely safe. We are continuously monitoring the situation and in contact with the ship management company to ensure security, he added. PTI
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India addressed the UN General Assembly, condemning Pakistan for its ongoing misrepresentation of Jammu and Kashmir. Member of Parliament Mahima Kumari Mewar emphasized Pakistan's history of military dictatorship and state-sponsored terrorism. India called for Pakistan to cease human rights violations in its illegally occupied territories. The delegation condemned recent attacks on civilians protesting for their rights and freedoms.
National Formulary of India lists drugs not approved by CDSCO, DCGI seeks explanation from IPC
The National Formulary of India released its latest edition amidst concerns regarding unapproved drugs included in it. The Drug Controller General of India has communicated with the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission regarding this discrepancy. Several drugs listed in NFI 2026 have not received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation. Stakeholders have also raised complaints about the unavailability of the online version of NFI 2026.
Health ministry proposes curbs on prescription drug ads by retailers, wholesalers and distributors
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Eight NIT Srinagar faculty members feature in Worlds top 2% Scientists list
Srinagar, Oct 9: NIT Srinagar organised a cyber security awareness session for students of the Department of Civil Engineering to sensitise them about safe, responsible and secure use of digital technologies. The session was conducted by Dr. Vivek, Assistant Professor, who discussed cyber hygiene, online safety, password security, phishing, social-engineering attacks, protection of personal data, safe use of social media and responsible use of digital platforms. Students were advised to remain vigilant against suspicious links, messages, emails and applications and to adopt secure digital practices. The session concluded with an interactive discussion in which students raised queries related to cyber fraud, online safety and protection of personal information. Srinagar, October 9: Eight faculty members of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar have been featured in the 2026 edition of the Worlds Top 2% Scientists database, compiled by researchers associated with Stanford University and Elsevier, marking a significant recognition of the institutes research contributions. The faculty members recognised in the database are Dr. Vijay Kumar, Department of Physics; Dr. Neeraj Gupta, Department of Electrical Engineering; Dr. Pravan Kumar Katiyar, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering; Dr. Sandeep Samantaray, Department of Civil Engineering; Prof. Bashir Ahmad Mir, Department of Civil Engineering; Dr. Sandeep Rathee, Department of Mechanical Engineering; Prof. M. A. Shah, Department of Physics; and Dr. Tawseef Ayoub Shaikh, Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Released this week, the database uses standardised citation indicators derived from Scopus data to assess researchers scientific impact and contributions across disciplines. The evaluation considers multiple bibliometric parameters, including citations, h-index, co-authorship-adjusted h-index, career-long impact and single-year research performance. Congratulating the faculty members, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Anurag Misra, said the recognition reflected the Institutes sustained efforts to promote quality research and academic excellence. He said the achievement was a matter of pride for the institute and acknowledged the faculty members contributions to advancing knowledge in their respective fields. Their inclusion in the global database, he added, would further strengthen NIT Srinagars academic and research profile and encourage a culture of innovation and scientific inquiry, Prof. Misra added. Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, also congratulated the faculty members, describing the recognition as an encouraging reflection of the institutes research environment and academic commitment. He said the achievement demonstrated the importance of sustained research, collaboration and scholarly engagement in strengthening the institutes academic standing. Prof. Rehman also expressed confidence that the recognition would motivate students, research scholars and young faculty members to pursue innovative research and contribute to scientific advancement.
New Delhi, Oct 9: An unprecedented security clampdown has been enforced in the Capital ahead of Saturday, after Delhi Police denied permission to the Cockroach Janta Party to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar, with the deployment of 25,000 police and paramilitary personnel, closure of 57 metro stations, suspension of internet services and intensive checks at city's border points, railway stations, bus terminals, hotels and other sensitive locations. According to police, the elaborate security arrangements are aimed at preventing protesters from staging an unauthorised sit-in at Jantar Mantar and to maintain law and order across the city amid the possibility of large-scale mobilisation of people. Internet services will be suspended within a 4-kilometre radius of Jantar Mantar from 10 pm on October 9 to 10 pm on October 10, sources said. The Union home ministry has approved the decision, they said. The suspension will apply to all mobile internet services. Internet services in the rest of Delhi will remain unaffected, they said. The New Delhi district has been divided into 20 zones to strengthen security arrangements and maintain law and order. Each of the 20 zones will be monitored by a Joint Commissioner of Police, a Deputy Commissioner of Police and an Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police to ensure close supervision of the security arrangements, the sources said. Special Commissioners of Police heading various units will also closely monitor the zones and coordinate with senior officers whenever required to respond to any law-and-order situation, they added. Addressing a press conference, Joint Commissioner Nupur Prasad said on Friday that police have denied permission for the proposed October 10 demonstration, citing the short notice given for the event and alleged violations of rules and directions during an earlier protest. She said the application seeking permission for the demonstration was submitted on October 7, just three days before the proposed gathering, adding that according to rules, such applications have to be submitted at least 10 days in advance Police said the application did not meet the stipulated notice period and that the conduct of the July demonstration had raised concerns over compliance with directions issued by authorities. The restrictions have been proposed in view of the Cockroach Janata Party's protest at Jantar Mantar on October 10 against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Kumar is facing allegations of voter-list tampering under the guise of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and of bypassing his two colleagues to alter Form 6, a key document to register as a voter. As part of the security arrangements, Delhi Police conducted mock drills at several locations. More than 120 companies of Central Armed Police Forces are expected to be involved in the security arrangements. Liquor shops across Delhi have been ordered to remain closed on October 9 and 10 as a preventive measure. Entry and exit gates at 57 Delhi Metro stations, including Rajiv Chowk, New Delhi, Central Secretariat, Patel Chowk and Kashmere Gate, will remain closed from 9 pm on Friday till further notice. According to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), restrictions will also continue on October 10, with the interchange facility remaining available at all affected stations except for the New Delhi metro station. Other prominent stations where entry and exit gates will remain closed include Janpath, Mandi House, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, Indraprastha, ITO, Delhi Gate, Khan Market, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Hauz Khas and INA. The list also includes Shaheen Bagh, Jamia Millia Islamia, Okhla Vihar, Kalindi Kunj, Lajpat Nagar, Ashram, Sarai Kale Khan-Nizamuddin, Welcome, Shahdara, Rithala, Rohini, Azadpur, Kashmere Gate and Shivaji Stadium, among others. Railway services are also expected to be disrupted, with several trains scheduled to arrive at or depart from New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin railway stations between 4 am and 2 pm on Saturday reported cancelled. The restrictions are intended to prevent large groups from converging on sensitive locations and moving towards areas where demonstrations are not permitted. The proposed measures could affect office-goers, students, shoppers and other commuters who rely on the metro for daily travel. Passengers have been advised to check official announcements. Meanwhile, police have stepped up monitoring of social media platforms, with more than 200 content creators reportedly under scrutiny in connection with mobilisation for the protest. Borders of the national capital will also face heightened surveillance and additional security cameras have been installed. There is a possibility of restrictions on vehicles entering New Delhi after 6 am on Saturday, depending on the security assessment and the situation on the ground, police sources said. Hotels, lodges, guest houses and dharamshalas are being checked as part of the preventive security exercise. Police are also issuing appeals from various mosques and temples, urging people to maintain peace. Bus terminals across the Capital will witness heightened vigilance, with security personnel monitoring passengers and vehicles arriving from neighbouring states. The airport and its approach roads are expected to remain under heightened security, with additional checks and surveillance to ensure that passenger movement remains orderly. Travellers heading to the airport have been advised to account for possible congestion and security checks while planning their journeys. Police will keep a close watch on people associated with the protest and assess attempts to mobilise supporters through social media platforms. More than 200 content creators have reportedly come under scrutiny as part of the monitoring exercise. Police teams are examining online posts and messages relating to mobilisation, gathering points and the proposed demonstration. Police said security personnel will monitor developments throughout Saturday and respond to any incidents, including crowd build-up, traffic obstructions and attempts to breach barricades.
SC seeks response of States, UTs on plea alleging prolonged vacancies in power regulatory bodies
New Delhi, Oct 9: The Supreme Court on Friday sought a response from 15 states and the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh on a PIL filed by NGO Energy Watchdog seeking directions to ensure that their state electricity regulatory commissions are properly constituted under the law. The bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana issued notice on the PIL filed by the NGO through lawyer Pranav Sachdeva. The petitioner has sought the apex court's directions directing the states and UTs to take all steps to comply with the provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003, and with the directions of the apex court in a verdict of April 2018 regarding composition of State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs). The plea said there were several statutory infractions, such as prolonged vacancies in the offices of chairperson and members and the complete absence of a person of law on the Commission, across 230 SERCs in the 15 states and the UTs. In the 2018 ruling, the Supreme Court held that SERCs have the rappings of the court and must have a suitably qualified person of law as a member, the plea said. It said the commissions across several states, including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland, continue to lack a person of law despite this ruling. The plea said in Tamil Nadu, all three offices are vacant, while in Andhra Pradesh, the chairperson and member (technical) posts are vacant, and the Commission functions with a sole member (finance). It said that in West Bengal, only the chairperson's office has been created, and the incumbent does not have the required legal background. The plea said the failure strikes at consumers' access to justice under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution and, without the mandated person of law, consumers cannot get lawful adjudication of complaints under the Electricity Act. Consumers' access to that remedy cannot be made dependent upon indefinite executive inaction, the plea said. It sought directions to the states of West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Kerala, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram and Sikkim, and to the UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, directing the authorities concerned to file a reply disclosing the steps taken to ensure that their SERCs had been constituted in compliance with the Electricity Act provisions.
India could be among first countries to roll out 6G: Jio
New Delhi, Oct 9: Indian telecom giant Jio is gearing up for the 6G era. The company says India could be among the first countries to roll out 6G when global standards are finalised in 2030. Jio has already developed its pre-6G stack and Giga MIMO Radio, both of which are on display at the ongoing India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026 in New Delhi. According to Jio, 6G networks could offer up to five times the capacity of current 5G networks, with a target to reduce latency by nearly 10 times. In simple terms, networks could handle much more data and many more users simultaneously, while responding to commands significantly faster. Data speeds are also expected to improve. These advances could unlock new possibilities for real-time AI, holographic video, healthcare, education and other next-generation digital services. A major highlight of Jio's IMC showcase is its Giga MIMO Radio, which the company describes as India's first. Jio has also unveiled a common baseband unit that can support both 5G and 6G. But the race to 6G isn't just about greater capacity or faster response times. It's also about helping shape the technology and global standards that will define the next generation of connectivity. Jio says it has filed more than 8,000 patents, including hundreds related to 6G. The company also claims to have made over 934 contributions to global standards. Jio expects 6G to make AI-powered services more responsive, particularly in situations where instant information or quick answers matter. At IMC, the company highlighted potential AI applications for farmers, doctors and students. Jio is also working towards AI-native and quantum-safe networks, aiming to combine faster connectivity with stronger security. Jio's 6G ambitions go beyond simply operating the next generation of mobile networks. The company wants to build a stronger presence across four key areas: hardware, software, patents and global standards. Jio describes its vision through two themes: 'India's 6G in the Making' and 'From India to the World'.
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Two-storey madrassa building reduced to ashes in J&Ks Ramban, no casualties reported
Banihal, Oct 9: A devastating fire gutted the two-storey building of Madrasa Maseeh-ul-Uloom in the remote Mahoo area of Khari tehsil in Ramban district on Friday afternoon. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. The fire broke out at around 3:30 pm, reportedly due to an electric short circuit, according to local residents. Soon after the incident, local men and women joined firefighting efforts. Police personnel from Police Post Mahoo, led by Fulail Singh, along with Army personnel and QRT volunteers from Khari, worked tirelessly to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby residential houses. Mahoo is a far-flung area without a local fire service facility in Tehsil Khari. A fire tender was dispatched from Banihal, but by the time it reached the spot, the entire madrasa building had been reduced to ashes.
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Altaf Bukhari demands compensation for hailstorm-hit farmers, orchardists
Srinagar, Oct 9: Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Friday expressed deep concern over the extensive damage caused to crops and orchards by the recent hailstorm. He also expressed grief over a fire incident in Sempora, Sopore, where an apple storage shed was gutted, causing massive losses to the stored produce. He urged the authorities to assess the losses promptly and ensure adequate compensation and timely assistance for the affected farmers and orchardists. In a statement, Bukhari said, I am saddened to learn that the devastating hailstorm on Thursday has caused extensive damage to standing crops and orchards in several villages across North and South Kashmir, particularly in parts of Sopore and Shopian. He further said, The damage to apple crops is especially heartbreaking, as it comes just weeks before the peak harvesting season, when orchardists were preparing to reap the rewards of their hard work. Apni Party President also expressed deep sorrow over the fire incident in Sempora, Sopore, where an apple storage shed containing harvested produce was gutted, resulting in substantial financial losses for the affected fruit grower. Equally distressing is the fire incident in Sempora, Sopore, where a major apple storage shed filled with harvested produce was gutted following a short circuit in a power transformer amid rain and gusty winds. The incident has caused huge financial losses to the affected fruit grower, he said. Calling for immediate relief, Bukhari said, I urge the authorities to assess the losses without delay and provide adequate compensation to the affected farmers and orchardists. They must receive timely assistance to recover from these losses and safeguard their livelihoods.
Thousands offer Friday prayers at Charar-e-sharif on Urs of Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA)
Police intensify crackdown against drug traffickers, 6 held in Anantnag and Kulgam
Srinagar, Oct 9: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Friday arrested 06 drug peddlers in separate NDPS cases in Anantnag & Kulgam and recovered contraband substances from their possession. A police spokesperson said that a police party from Police Station Dooru, during naka checking at Fidar Road, apprehended a person identified as Adil Rahman son of Abdul Rahman resident of Peti Khas, Verinag. During his personal search, approximately 07 grams of heroin was recovered from his possession. A case under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Dooru, and investigation has been initiated. In another case, a police party from Police Station Dooru, during naka checking at Qamar, apprehended another person identified as Ishfaq Ahmad Bhat son of Abdul Salaam Bhat resident of Kapran. During his search, approximately 08 grams of heroin was recovered from his possession. Accordingly, FIR No. 155/2026 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Dooru, and investigation is underway. He said a police party from Police Station Anantnag, deployed on naka duty at NH-244 near Najigund, Anantnag, intercepted a person identified as Amir Hussain Sheikh son of Mohd Ramzan Sheikh resident of Donipawa. During his search, 10.76 grams of charas was recovered from his possession. Necessary legal proceedings have been initiated in the matter. In another case, a police party from Police Station Anantnag, during naka checking at Mehendi Kadal, intercepted a person identified as Muneeb Saleem Wani son of Mohammad Saleem Wani resident of Bangidar. During his search, 06 grams of charas was recovered from his possession. Necessary legal proceedings have been initiated in this case as well. Moreover, a police party from Police Post Sangam intercepted a person identified as Urood Gul son of Gulzar Ahmad Sheikh resident of Bijbehara. During search, 6.30 grams of charas-like substance was recovered from his possession. Accordingly, a case vide FIR No. 291/2026 under Sections 8/20 of the NDPS Act has been registered, and further investigation has been taken up. In Kulgam, a police Party of Police Post Mirbazar intercepted & apprehended a person identified as Dharm Veer son of Ram Autar, resident of Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh, near DBZ Brick Kiln, Kachpora, and recovered 1.360 Kgs of charas powder and 11.02 grams of charas-like substance from his possession. Accordingly, FIR No. 244/2026 under Section 8/20 NDPS Act has been registered at PS Qazigund. Further investigation is underway, spokesperson said. Jammu and Kashmir Police reiterated its commitment to continuing the crackdown against drug trafficking and peddling. They said that sustained enforcement and preventive measures are being undertaken across the district to protect the youth and society from the menace of drugs.
Srinagar, Oct 9: Addressing the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid Srinagar, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq paid glowing tribute to Hazrat Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA), Alamdar-e-Kashmir, recalling his enduring spiritual, moral and cultural contribution to the lives for Kashmiris for all generations to come. Mirwaiz said Sheikh-ul-Alams Shruks enriched and preserved the Kashmiri language, stressing that to preserve Kashmiri is to preserve our identity, memory and civilisational heritage. He urged younger generations to speak, read and value their mother tongue. Referring to the September 15 Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema Jammu & Kashmir (MMU) conference, Mirwaiz said a committee was formed to review the suggestions and recommendations received from participating Ulema and work out their implementation. The committee met this week and discussed a structured follow-up programme. He announced that the first coordinated Khutbah across participating mosques and Imambargahs on Friday, October 16, will focus on Imaan Faith, as the fundamental common ground that binds the Muslim Ummah together. Mirwaiz said that sheikh Ul Alam was a standard bearer of the concept of Imaan and tawheed in Islam as represented in his discourse or kalaam in the vernacular language, a cherished treasure of our distinct Islamic identity and heritage. Strengthening these concepts within and practising them in our daily lives and interactions without , is the best tribute that we can pay to our patron saint. Mirwaiz said that despite differences of Maslak and religious interpretation, Muslims are united by the essentials of their faith. Strengthening Imaan, he said, is the starting point for strengthening the individual, the family and the society. He said that when this shared foundation of faith is recognised, legitimate religious differences can be approached with greater respect, restraint and the Islamic ethics of disagreement, rather than becoming a cause of hostility or division. The Mimbar is an Amanah, he said, and should be used to deepen faith, strengthen common bonds and remind people of the responsibilities that flow from Imaan. Other issues identified at the MMU conference, including unity of the Ummah, drug abuse, suicide and mental-health concerns, youth challenges, misuse of social media, family concerns and environmental responsibility, will be taken up one by one on subsequent Fridays as part of the coordinated programme. Taking forward another important decision of the September conference, Mirwaiz said that the first district-level Ulema meeting will be held at Bandipora. The one-day gathering will deliberate upon the identified societal challenges confronting people at the local level and explore how Ulema, mosques and madrasas can respond to them in a coordinated and practical manner. Mirwaiz said that the district-level process will subsequently be extended to other areas as part of the MMUs wider effort -through these coordinated Friday sermons, district-level engagements and community awareness , to ensure that the recommendations of the conference are translated into practical action at the grassroots level . Mirwaiz also announced that next Friday he will deliver the sermon at the shrine of Hazrat Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA) at Charar-e-Sharief.
Is Your Child a Picky Eater or Actually Not Eating Enough? Know the Difference
It is not easy to get kids to eat nutritious food without them getting fussy. However, your child may miss out on essential nutrients because of picky eating. We asked a paediatrician to understand when picky eating is normal and when it needs to be assessed for nutritional deficiencies.
AAAM DC Bemina commemorates Gandhi Jayanti
Srinagar, Oct 8: The Department of Environmental Sciences, Abdul Ahad Azad Memorial Degree College (AAAM DC), Bemina, Cluster University Srinagar, incollaboration with the NSS and IQAC, organised a one-day programme to commemorate Gandhi Jayanti 2026 at the College Auditorium on October 7.The programme was held under the theme, From Gandhian Vision to Viksit Bharat @2047: Pathways to Environmental Sustainability. The eventaimed to revisit Mahatma Gandhis ideals of simplicity, self-reliance, environmental stewardship and sustainable living, while connecting these valueswith Indias developmental aspirations for 2047. Prof. Muzafar Ahmad Bhat, Principal of the college, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered the inaugural-cum-welcome address. The programme featured a lead talk by eminent academician Prof. (Dr.) Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi, who spoke on the relevance of Gandhian philosophy in the context of contemporary environmental challenges and sustainable development in the larger quest for Indias Viksit Bharat initiative. He said, Civilisations that have proved successful over time have been those guided by a spiritual quest and contentment and not those driven by physical and material gratification. He said that as citizens, we must be austere in our overtures and safeguard air, water and land from crusades.An interactive question-and-answer session with the resource person followed the talk. A large number of students attended the event. The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Tanveer Ahmad, Assistant Professor, Department of Functional English, followed by a formal vote of thanks presented by Dr. Niyaz Ahmad Khan, Assistant Professor and Secretary of the Staff Council.
Farmers introduced this bird to control ticks; El Nino spread it across Galapagos
Binomo: How Digital Platforms Are Redefining the Trading Experience
The digital transformation of financial services has changed more than the way people access markets. It has also raised expectations around education, usability, technology, and the ability to test new approaches before committing real funds. For trading platforms, this means that a functional interface alone is no longer enough. Users increasingly look for an environment where market tools, learning resources, practice opportunities, and account management can work together. Binomo has developed its platform around this broader model, combining online access with educational content, a demo environment, analytical functionality, mobile applications, and security features. From Access to a More Complete Digital Environment One of the clearest changes in online trading is the move toward integrated platforms. Instead of relying on separate sources for market information, education, and technical tools, users can find many of these functions within one ecosystem. Binomo offers browser-based access as well as applications for iOS and Android. Its platform includes charts, indicators, strategies, account tools, tournaments, and access to support. The website currently states that the minimum account balance starts at $10 and the minimum trade amount at $1. These features address a practical consideration: users can explore the platforms functionality without needing to navigate several unrelated services. Why Practice Has Become an Important Part of Trading The transition from learning about trading to actually using a platform can be challenging. A demo environment provides a way to bridge that gap. Binomos demo account provides $10,000 in virtual funds and access to platform functionality, real quotes, indicators, strategies, and training materials. This allows users to become familiar with the interface and experiment with analytical tools without placing real funds at risk. The educational value of a demo account goes beyond simply learning where different buttons are located. Users can observe how charts behave, examine indicators, and explore strategies in a simulated environment. At the same time, demo performance should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results under real financial conditions. Education as Part of the Platform Another shift is the growing role of education within digital trading services. Rather than treating learning as something that happens separately, platforms can integrate educational resources directly into the user experience. Binomo provides free training, a knowledge base, tutorials, and strategy-related materials. Its educational content covers subjects including chart analysis, indicators, candlestick patterns, Fibonacci concepts, RSI, ADX, and moving-average strategies. This creates a practical learning cycle: study a concept, examine the relevant tools, and then explore them through the demo environment. Binomos educational materials also note that no strategy can guarantee a successful outcome, an important distinction when discussing analytical methods. Mobility Is Becoming a Standard Expectation The desktop browser is no longer the only way users interact with digital financial services. Mobile access has become an important part of the experience, particularly for users who want to monitor markets or manage an account from different locations. Binomos mobile applications for iOS and Android provide access to core platform functions, while the browser version remains available for desktop users. The result is a more flexible model in which users can choose the device that best suits their circumstances rather than being tied to a single access point. Security Behind the User Experience Convenience also brings the responsibility of protecting accounts and financial information. Binomo lists several security measures, including two-factor authentication, AI-assisted verification of identity and payment methods, and PCI-standard protection for payment card data. These measures form part of the infrastructure behind the platform rather than being visible trading features. For users, however, they can be just as important as charts or educational tools when evaluating an online service. The Broader Direction of Digital Trading The development of platforms such as Binomo reflects a wider shift in digital financial services. The focus is increasingly moving from simply providing market access toward creating an environment that combines technology, education, practice, mobility, and account protection. For users, that broader approach can make the process of exploring a platform more structured. A demo account can provide an initial practice environment, educational resources can support further learning, and analytical tools can help users examine market information more systematically. None of these features removes financial risk, and real-money trading requires an understanding of the applicable terms and potential losses. What they can provide is a more comprehensive environment in which users can learn about the platform, test its functionality, and make decisions with a clearer understanding of how its tools work. As digital financial services continue to evolve, the platforms most closely aligned with changing user expectations may be those that treat education, accessibility, technology, and responsible use as connected parts of the overall experience.
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J&K govt fixes 21-day deadline for delivery of public services
Srinagar, Oct 9: The Omar Abdullah-led government on Friday fixed a 21-day deadline for the delivery of key public services under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Services Guarantee Act, a move aimed at reducing delays and streamlining approvals. The chief minister's office described it as a significant step towards faster, transparent and citizen-centric governance in Jammu and Kashmir. The government has notified a 21-day timeline for the delivery of key public services under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Services Guarantee Act, 2011, the CM's office said. It said the timeline covers essential approvals, including No Objection Certificates, for building permissions from departments such as revenue, forest, Jal Shakti, power development, R&B and local development authorities. This step will benefit citizens by streamlining administrative approvals, reducing delays, ensuring accountability, and enhancing ease of living across J&K, it added.
Meet Shahid Sheikh, Srinagar's Young Harmonium Craftsman
After inquiry, JNU dismisses professor over sexual harassment allegations
The professor of the Centre for the Study of Social Systems, School of Social Sciences, has been dismissed from services with immediate effect
Sitting All Day? Heres How It May Affect Your Sexual Health
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Delhi-NCR's toxic air may have role in gynaecological cancers, say experts
New Delhi, Oct 9: Long-term exposure to air pollution may have a role in development of gynaecological cancers, Delhi-NCR experts said, citing emerging research on the possible links between PM2.5 exposure, reproductive health and cancers of the female reproductive system. Experts explained that gynaecological cancers do not have a single cause, adding that environmental factors may contribute to the biological processes involved in cancer development. PM2.5 is of interest because prolonged exposure is associated with inflammation, oxidative stress and systemic biological effects, Dr Rama Joshi, gynae onco surgeon and chairman, Gynae Oncology and Robotic Surgery, Fortis Gurugram, said. She said recent studies have reported associations between air pollution and certain aspects of women's reproductive health, raising questions about whether environmental exposure may also have a role in the broader cancer-risk environment. She said an association between pollution exposure and cancer does not mean that pollution directly causes cancer, adding that such evidence in gynaecological cancers is still evolving and findings have not been uniform across studies. More India-specific data is needed before drawing conclusions about causation, she said. Women should focus on the risk factors that we already know can be modified or monitored. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, managing diabetes and other metabolic conditions, understanding family history and seeking timely evaluation for abnormal bleeding remain important. Environmental pollution is an additional concern that deserves further scientific investigation, Joshi said. The experts also referred to a recent India-wide study that examined the relationship between environmental exposure and reproductive health among Indian women. The study reported that women exposed to PM2.5 levels above 40 micrograms per cubic metre had 24 per cent higher odds of delayed menarche and a 23 per cent higher hazard of early menopause. The researchers analysed National Family Health Survey data along with satellite-derived PM2.5 estimates and other environmental indicators. The analysis included nearly 1.8 lakh women aged 15-24 for menarche and nearly 3 lakh women aged 30-49 for menopause, with stronger associations reported in northern India, including areas such as Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and parts of Uttar Pradesh. Such findings are adding to scientific interest in how prolonged exposure to air pollution may influence hormonal and reproductive pathways in women. Researchers are also examining whether biological effects associated with PM2.5, including chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and cellular damage, could potentially contribute to conditions affecting hormone-sensitive tissues and the female reproductive system. Endometrial cancer, which develops in the lining of the uterus, is strongly associated with established risk factors such as obesity, prolonged oestrogen exposure, diabetes, increasing age and certain genetic conditions. Ovarian cancer has a different set of risk factors, including age, family history and inherited genetic mutations. The possibility that chronic environmental exposure could add to these established risk factors is an area of growing scientific interest. Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter may have systemic effects beyond the lungs, potentially influencing inflammatory, hormonal and cellular processes that are relevant to cancer biology. The issue assumes greater relevance in Delhi-NCR, where women may be exposed to elevated PM2.5 concentrations repeatedly over many years. Fine particulate matter has been linked to inflammation, oxidative stress and other systemic effects, prompting scientists to examine whether these biological pathways could influence tissues beyond the lungs, including hormone-sensitive organs. Dr Joshi stressed that women should not interpret air pollution as a standalone cause of gynaecological cancer. Abnormal uterine bleeding, bleeding after menopause, unusually heavy or prolonged periods, persistent pelvic or abdominal discomfort, unexplained bloating and changes in urinary or bowel habits warrant medical evaluation, particularly when symptoms persist. With gynaecological cancers remaining an important health burden among women, experts said larger, long-term Indian studies involving Indian women are needed to further determine pollution as the important risk factor for gynaecological cancer. Dr Aditya Sarin, vice chairman, Medical Oncology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, said the emerging evidence provides a reasonable basis to consider air pollution as a potential contributing factor in the cancer-risk environment. Chronic exposure to PM2.5 can promote inflammation, oxidative stress and cellular changes, which are mechanisms relevant to cancer development. The emerging association with reproductive health makes it important to investigate whether prolonged pollution exposure may also contribute to gynaecological cancers. While causation is yet to be established, the signal is important and deserves further study, particularly in highly polluted regions such as Delhi-NCR, Sarin said.
Pest, Mould Found At Kareena Kapoor's Favourite Mumbai Restaurant, Licence Suspended
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Acanthopanax senticosus / Eleuthero / Siberian Ginseng
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In a heartfelt throwback post, Ashwini Kalsekar recalled how Nana Patekar would cook, serve food, and discourage wastage on film sets.
College Dropout From Bengaluru Builds A Million Dollar Chai Business In Australia
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LG raises maximum age limit for Nambardars in Ladakh from 60 to 63
Leh, Oct 09: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena on Friday raised the maximum age limit for Nambardars in the Union Territory from 60 to 63 years, fulfilling a long-standing demand of village heads in the Union territory. The decision followed a request by the president of the All Ladakh Goba Association during an interaction between the LG and Nambardars from different parts of Ladakh at Lok Niwas on October 3, an official statement said. The association had sought removal of the existing age ceiling, provided the Nambardars remained capable of discharging their responsibilities and enjoyed public support. Under the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Rules, 1980, a Lambardar's term is five years or until the age of 60, whichever is earlier, it said. Exercising powers under Section 6 of the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Act, 1972, read with Rule 16 of the 1980 rules, the Lieutenant Governor has increased the maximum age limit to 63 years while retaining the five-year term, it added. The move is aimed at ensuring continuity in grassroots administration, preserving institutional and traditional knowledge, and facilitating smoother administrative transitions, particularly in remote villages and difficult terrain. Nambardars are an important link between the administration and the people, particularly in Ladakhs remote and geographically challenging areas. Their experience, knowledge of local traditions, and close connection with their communities are valuable assets, Saxena said. He said the revision of the age limit would help ensure continuity in grassroots governance and enable experienced community leaders to continue contributing. Nambardars, also known as Gobas, serve as a vital link between the administration and local communities, it said. Their understanding of local issues, traditions and public concerns helps strengthen last-mile governance and the delivery of government services and welfare schemes, it said. The decision follows the Lieutenant Governor's earlier initiative to increase the monthly honorarium of Nambardars from Rs 1,500 to Rs 5,000 in recognition of their contribution to local administration.
Rubbing Tomatoes on the Face to Remove Tan: Beauty Hack or Skin Barrier Risk?
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Hyatt Regency's Amalfi Coast Seafood Menu Made Me Fall In Love With La Piazza All Over Again
La Piazza at Hyatt Regency Delhi hosted the Amalfi Coast Seafood Festival, featuring fresh seafood and coastal Italian flavours.
Study of 103 Bat Genomes Points to Europe as Bats Likely Birthplace
