Health & Fitness

Remove unnecessary barricades at night to prevent accidents: PDPs Iqbal Tramboo

Srinagar, Aug 11: PDP Senior Leader and Spokesperson Mohammad Iqbal Tramboo tuesday expressed serious concern over the growing use of road dividers and barricades across Srinagar, particularly those that are difficult to see at night due to inadequate lighting, warning signs and reflective markings. In a statement issued, Tramboo said the tragic death of a young girl in an accident at Brane Crossing yesterday is a painful reminder that poorly visible road obstructions can have devastating consequences. He urged the concerned agencies to immediately review the placement of barricades across the city and remove those that are unnecessary, particularly during night hours. Road safety cannot be compromised in the name of traffic management or security arrangements. If barricades are absolutely necessary, they must be properly illuminated and fitted with adequate reflective markings so that motorists can identify them from a safe distance, Tramboo said. He pointed out that Indian road-safety guidelines emphasise the importance of visibility of road signs, markings and traffic-control devices during night hours. The Indian Roads Congress and road-safety audit guidelines specifically recognise the danger posed by non-reflective barricades and recommend reflective signs and markers for night-time visibility. Tramboo said the authorities must adopt a more rational and safety-oriented approach instead of placing barricades indiscriminately on roads and crossings. Every unnecessary barricade is a potential hazard, especially for two-wheelers and pedestrians. We cannot wait for another tragedy before correcting these arrangements. Precious lives must be protected, he said. He further questioned the continued presence of extensive security barricades across Srinagar despite repeated claims by the government that the security situation has improved considerably. If the government itself says that the situation has improved considerably, why does Srinagar still have to look like a garrison? Security arrangements must be proportionate to the situation and should not unnecessarily obstruct normal civilian movement or create new risks for commuters, Tramboo said. He urged the administration, traffic police and other concerned agencies to conduct an immediate citywide audit of barricades and dividers, remove unnecessary obstructions, and ensure proper lighting, reflective markings and advance warning signs wherever such structures are required. The objective should be a safer, more accessible and more normal Srinagarnot a city filled with avoidable barriers, Tramboo added. (KNS)

J-K LoP Sunil Sharma backs Jharkhand students; attacks Opposition over 'double standards'

Jammu, Aug 11: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Sunil Sharma on Tuesday expressed solidarity with students protesting in Jharkhand over alleged irregularities, corruption and paper leaks in recruitment examinations, and accused opposition parties of maintaining double standards on student issues. Addressing a press conference here, Sharma said the ongoing student agitation was a struggle for justice, transparency and accountability, and reiterated his demand for an impartial probe, including by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), into the alleged irregularities. BJP National Secretary and Jammu South MLA Narinder Singh and party spokespersons Vikram Malhotra and Zorawar Jamwal were also present. Sharma noted that students had been raising their demands peacefully, within the ambit of law and the Constitution, and questioned the alleged use of force against them. If students are raising their demands peacefully and within the ambit of law and the Constitution, why should they face lathicharge or harassment? Why is there silence on this issue today? he asked. He alleged that opposition parties, which recently raised their voice over student-related issues, were now silent on the Jharkhand agitation. Sharma questioned whether recent protests by opposition leaders purportedly in support of students reflected genuine concern or were motivated by political interests. Today, we want to ask all those parties where their morality is and where their voice has gone. A few days ago, you were raising slogans, protesting and making every effort to create instability in the country. Where has that voice gone today? he said. Targeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Sharma accused the Congress and its allies of adopting a double standard on issues concerning students. He also referred to the Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party and other opposition parties, urging the youth to expose what he described as their double standards, double politics and double character. The youth are the foundation of the country's future. They should not become a tool in the hands of political parties seeking to create instability or disorder, Sharma said. He appealed to the younger generation not to fall prey to attempts to politicise genuine grievances and urged students to continue raising their concerns through peaceful and constitutional means. Sharma said the BJP stood in solidarity with the Jharkhand students fighting for justice and reiterated that allegations of recruitment examination irregularities should be investigated through a credible, impartial and time-bound mechanism. He also criticised the Congress leadership in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that the party had earlier been vocal on student protests and alleged harassment but was now silent on the Jharkhand issue. From Jammu and Kashmir, I want to ask the Congress party here why its voice has gone silent today. Until recently, its leaders were coming out in support of protests and raising their voice over alleged harassment of students, he said. Sharma alleged that certain political forces were attempting to create an atmosphere of instability and disorder in the country and claimed that the Congress in Jammu and Kashmir had often remained at the forefront of such political campaigns. He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir were entitled to question the local Congress leadership over its stand on the Jharkhand students' agitation. Sharma reiterated that recruitment examinations must be conducted fairly and transparently and that students' legitimate grievances should be addressed through dialogue and due process rather than coercive measures.

J&K BJP leader booked for extortion; suspended from party

Srinagar, Aug 11: Jammu and Kashmir Police has booked BJP's Pulwama president Showkat Gayoor for allegedly making an extortion demand from a contractor through intimidation, officials said on Tuesday. The BJP, reacting to the development, suspended Gayoor with immediate effect from all party posts and responsibilities and initiated disciplinary proceedings against him. The FIR was registered Monday night at Newa police post in Pulwama on a complaint by Mohammad Yaseen Ganie, who also alleged that the BJP leader threatened him with the Public Safety Act if his demand is not met. Ganie, in his complaint, accused Gayoor of committing acts of extortion, criminal intimidation, wrongful restraint, obstruction, harassment and making illegal demands in connection with the work being undertaken for Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee, Barthana. Showkat Gayoor has, for some time, been continuously interfering with and obstructing the complainant and his drivers/workers. The accused has been repeatedly contacting the complainant by telephone, threatening him and demanding illegal gratification as a condition for allowing the complainant to continue the lawful work, the complaint said. Ganie accused the BJP leader of demanding Rs 5 lakh from him as extortion money. Gayoor conveyed, in substance, that unless the complainant complied with his demand, he would not permit the complainant to continue his lawful work. The complainant initially refused to succumb to such illegal demands. However, the accused continued making calls and issuing threats and creating obstacles in the lawful work of the complainant, his complaint read. Ganie also alleged that he gave the BJP leader Rs 54,000 in two instalments in November last year. The said payments were not voluntary payments made out of free will. They were made under the continuous pressure, threats, intimidation and apprehension created by the accused, the complaint said. Meanwhile, state general secretary Mohammad Anwar Khan placed Gayoor under suspension from all organisational posts after consulting the senior party leaders. Pending finalisation of the disciplinary proceedings, Showkat Gayoor Andrabi is hereby suspended from all organisational posts and responsibilities of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), including the post of district president Pulwama with immediate effect, the suspension order read.

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Kashmiri Pandit employees asked to work from home following online threat

Srinagar, Aug 11: Minority employees working in Kashmir have been directed to work from home following two back to back terror attacks in south Kashmir and online terror threat named Kashmir Pandits. The security agencies have come across online threats with the names of Kashmiri Pandits, who are working in the Valley as government employees, The New Indian Express reported. The report stated that the directives follow two terror attacks that broke the calm in Kashmir last month. On June 22, 2026 terrorists fired upon a policeman Ashiq Hussain Qureshi in Anantnag town when he was performing Amarnath Yatra duty. In another incident, two migrant labourers from Chhattisgarh were shot and killed by unidentified terrorists at a brick kiln in the Kelam area of Kulgam district on July 31, 2026. One worker died initially, and the second injured worker succumbed to his injuries the following morning during treatment at Srinagar hospital. The threats are believed to have been issued by the shadow outfit United Liberation Council of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The threat posters circulated online carried a list of KP employees along with their phone numbers. The group shared the names of the six employees, along with their phone numbers, and claimed that they had full details, including names of their family members and locations. Sources said after the threat, security forces have increased security in the areas where the Pandits reside. In view of the security concerns, the administration has asked Pandit employees posted in the Valley to work from home for some time. We have been told to work from home till August 25, said a PM Package Kashmiri Pandit employee. An influential Pandit groupKashmiri Pandit Sangarsh Samiti (KPSS) said the recent terror attacks in south Kashmir, followed by fresh threat posters naming Kashmiri Pandit employees have once again exposed the chilling sense of vulnerability among KPs in Kashmir. The KPSS questioned how the personal details of six employees including their phone numbers, became public. Was it a security lapse, a confidentiality breach or a deliberate leak? the group asked. Fix the loopholes. Protect the vulnerablebefore history repeats itself, the KPSS posted on X. Another KP group Panun Kashmir convenor Dr Agnishekhar said publication of names and personal contact details accompanied by explicit threats to individuals and their families is a matter of grave concern.

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J&K power employees threaten strike from Aug 13 against suspension, withholding of salaries

Jammu, Aug 11: J&K power employees will go on strike from August 13 against the suspension of PDD engineers and employees by MD JPDCL without inquiries and withholding of salaries for alleged inaction against the habitual offenders in terms of power theft and execution of Surya Ghar scheme. J&K Power Employees and Engineers Coordination Committee (JKPEECC) convener Sachin Tickoo, in a press conference at Jammu while giving an ultimatum of 48-hours to Managing Director JPDCL, announced that the strike would continue till the revocation of order related to suspension and withholding of salaries. Tickoo, who is also the president of JKEEGA, stated, Yesterday Power Employees and Engineers Coordination Committee tried to meet Managing Director (MD) JPDCL to raise this issue. We conveyed that it was an arbitrary move to suspend engineers and other employees, without any inquiry and giving them an opportunity to present their case. He stated, Despite the fact that stringent measures, including disconnection of power supply, have been taken against habitual offenders of power theft and applications have been sent to SSPs and SHOs for registration of FIRs. But no concrete action has been taken in case of those FIRs against the habitual offenders since 2024. Ironically, action is being taken against the employees and engineers. They are being suspended. Tickoo alleged that the salaries of PDD employees were being withheld for not making Solar (Surya) Ghar scheme a success in Dharmari, Reasi, Pouni, Rajouri, Poonch, Kotranka, Ramban and Banihal. Committee members asked the MD JPDCL to revoke suspension orders within 48 hours, otherwise all J&K Power employees will go on strike from August 13, Tickoo said. He alleged that MD JPDCL concealed information from the administrative department about the action taken by PDD employees and engineers. The suspensions were made although their (employees) superior officers, including Chief Engineer did not indict them. 25000 smart meters are damaged. Has any action been taken on that account? MD JPDCL, on moral ground, should resign for not taking any action against the (smart meter) agencies, Tickoo demanded.

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ACB books former Kishtwar Patwari over Rs 3 lakh bribe

Jammu, Aug 11: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Tuesday said it has registered a case against a former Patwari in Kishtwar for allegedly demanding Rs 5 lakh in bribe and accepting Rs 3 lakh through cheque for issuing a Fard. The ACB spokesperson said a case (FIR No. 02/2026) under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended, has been registered at Police Station ACB Doda against Mohd Arif Mir, the then Patwari of Patwar Halqa Trigam, Kishtwar. The spokesperson said the case was initiated following a verification conducted by ACB DKR Jammu into allegations that Mir, while serving as a public servant, abused his official position by demanding Rs 5 lakh from the complainant for issuance of a Fard and accepting Rs 3 lakh through cheque as illegal gratification, after which the Fard was issued. During the investigation, the ACB obtained a search warrant from the competent court and conducted a search at the residential house of the accused Patwari at Malipeth, near Grid Station, Kishtwar, in the presence of a magistrate and independent witnesses. Further investigation of the case is in progress, the spokesperson said.

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PM Modi urges people to celebrate Independence Day with honour, pride

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to celebrate Independence Day with pride and glory. He encouraged everyone to take a pledge for a developed India and hoist the tricolour. NDA MPs and Union ministers greeted him with national flags and patriotic slogans. The parliamentary party meeting also included a presentation on water resource management.

Altaf Bukhari urges govt not to harass youth, elders over past cases

Former Syrian President Bashar Assad sentenced to death in absentia

Damascus, Aug 11: A Syrian court sentenced ousted Syrian President Bashar Assad along with his younger brother to death in absentia on Tuesday for crimes against humanity and war crimes during Syria's 14-year conflict that left about half a million people dead. The sentences at the Fourth Criminal Court in Damascus are the first against Assad or members of his inner circle since the Assad family's five decades in power came to an end 20 months ago. Bashar Assad used state agencies to commit war crimes and crimes against humanity, said judge Fakhareddine al-Aryan during a court session that was aired live on state TV. Also sentenced to death in the same case was Assad's maternal cousin Atef Najib, who was convicted of overseeing a crackdown in the southern province of Daraa that led to the uprising and later the civil war. Amid tight security, Najib stood inside a cage wearing a prisoner's uniform as the judge read the sentence. A crowd of people gathered outside the courthouse in central Damascus to hear the verdict. Assad and his brother Maher fled to Russia after the government's fall in December 2024 and received political asylum. Syria's new rulers have asked Russia to hand the Assads over. Najib, who was sanctioned by the US Department of the Treasury in April 2011, was later detained and is one of the highest-ranking officials to be put on trial. Najib is a former Syrian army brigadier general who was head of the Political Security Branch in southern Syria's Daraa province under Assad in 2011. During his tenure, more than a dozen teenagers who scrawled anti-government graffiti on a school wall in Daraa were arrested and tortured. The case became a catalyst for mass protests against the repressive policies of Assad's security forces. The protests were met by a brutal government crackdown and spiralled into a 14-year civil war that ended with Assad's ouster in a lightning rebel offensive. Maher Assad was a former commander of the Syrian military's 4th Armored Division -- which Syrian opposition activists have accused of killings, torture, extortion and drug trafficking, in addition to running its own detention centres.

Srinagar water issues will be resolved on priority: Javed Rana

Parliament passes Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026

New Delhi, Aug 11: The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday passed a Bill to set up a National Tribunal Commission to select chairpersons and members for various tribunals across the country. The Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on Monday. Earlier, Opposition INDIA bloc parties staged a walkout from the Upper House in the post-lunch sitting after Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge was not allowed to speak by the Chair, as the Upper House debated The Tribunals Reforms Bill, 2026. Replying to the debate on the Bill, Minister for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal said tribunals play a complementary role to ensure speedy justice. Under the Narendra Modi government, rationalisation of Tribunals started in 2016. The government later brought the Tribunal Reforms Act in 2021. Setting up of the National Tribunal Commission is the core of this Bill. It will have two judicial members and two technical members and will be headed by a former Supreme Court judge or a former chief justice of a High Court. The NTC will make appointments in the commission to make it transparent, independent and merit-based, said the minister. He stressed that the Bill brings no changes in the jurisdiction of tribunals. This Bill will ensure ease of justice and ease of doing business and is an important milestone in adopting global best practices that will strengthen legal and institutional architecture and will ensure proper justice, Meghwal said.

Conflicts won't exist in world if sense of belonging is strengthened: Bhagwat

Nagpur, Aug 11: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday said universal consciousness binds humanity, and if people realise this common connection and shape their behaviour accordingly, then the obstacles and crises won't exist in the world. Bhagwat performed puja at the famous Ganesh Tekdi temple in Nagpur, and inaugurated the temple's sanctum. Addressing a gathering on the temple's premises, the Sangh chief said universal consciousness pervades all. Lord Ganesh is a source of energy and represents the true meaning of organisation. Everybody is subtly aware of this sense of belonging and feels connected. What is true unity? We all are expressions of the same energy, Bhagwat said. If this universal consciousness is understood, the person's behaviour with himself, others and the world changes, he said. In common languages, we identify this feeling as a sense of belonging. If this feeling is consciously strengthened and one shapes his or her behaviour, then obstacles in our world won't exist. All the impediments and crises we see in the world today exist because we have forgotten the sense of belonging. And there is only one real remedy: Our personal, collective, national and international conduct should be based on that sense of belonging. Then obstacles will cease to exist, Bhagwat added.

Macadamisation of Srinagar roads to begin within 1-2 weeks: NC spokesman

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Jammu Division records heavy rainfall; MeT predicts more showers from Aug 11

Srinagar, Aug 11: Jammu and Kashmir received significant rainfall in the past 24 hours, with Kathua KVK recording the highest at 156 mm. Jammu recorded 79 mm, Katra 71 mm and Samba 55 mm, the Meteorological Department said. An official of MeT Centre Srinagar told GNS that, one or two spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely at many places on August 11 and 12. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected at a few districts of Jammu division, while brief intense showers are likely at a few districts of Kashmir division during tomorrow forenoon and afternoon hours. From August 13 to 16, there is a possibility of light to moderate rain and thundershowers at many places with brief intense showers at a few places. Between August 17 and 19, a few spells of light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely at many places. Heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers are expected at a few districts during early morning and afternoon hours. From August 20 to 22, light rain and thundershowers are possible at scattered places. The MeT department has advised that there is a possibility of heavy rain and brief intense heavy showers at a few districts during August 11-12 and August 17-19, with heavy to very heavy rain at one or two districts of Jammu division. It added that torrential rain and brief intense heavy showers may trigger flash floods, landslides and mudslides at vulnerable places. People, tourists and transporters have been advised to remain cautious and follow the administration's guidelines.(GNS)

Philips India sees India emerging as global R&D, AI hub; bets on healthcare infrastructure for growth

Philips India is focusing on growing healthcare infrastructure and artificial intelligence. The company's R&D footprint in India is significantly strengthening its global operations. Investments will continue to support Philips' positive growth story in the country. Philips sees opportunities in sleep and respiratory care as awareness increases. The company prioritizes value over price when facing competition from other firms.

President Murmu gives assent to Bill criminalising insult to Vande Mataram

New Delhi, Aug 11: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday gave assent to a Bill that criminalises intentional disruption or prevention of the singing of the national song 'Vande Mataram', giving it the same legal protection currently accorded to the national anthem, a government statement said. With the presidents assent, The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, has become a law. The Lok Sabha had passed the Bill on July 30, while the Rajya Sabha had cleared it a day earlier. The legislation grants Vande Mataram the same status as the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'. For the first time at the Independence Day function, Vande Mataram will be sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort, the Union Home Ministry said. Earlier, the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act prohibited intentionally preventing the singing of the national anthem (Jana Gana Mana) or causing disturbance to any assembly engaged in such singing. These offences were punishable with up to three years of imprisonment, a fine or both, while a second and every subsequent conviction attracted a minimum of one year's imprisonment. The erstwhile law did not accord the same protection for the national song. Presently, there is no specific legal provision to prevent insults to the singing of 'Vande Mataram', which is honoured as the national song. Therefore, in order to prohibit any person from intentionally preventing the singing of the national song or causing disturbance to any assembly engaged in such singing, it is proposed to amend Section 3 of the said Act to include the national song also within its ambit, so as to make such acts punishable, the Bill had said. The president of the Constituent Assembly, Dr Rajendra Prasad, on January 24, 1950, stated that the song 'Vande Mataram' composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, which played a historic role in the Indian freedom struggle, shall be honoured equally with the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana' and shall have equal status with it, the Bill further said. Earlier this year, the Union Home Ministry directed that all six stanzas of 'Vande Mataram' shall be sung first when the national song and the national anthem are played together. In an order dated January 28, the home ministry gave the first set of protocols for singing the national song, directing that six stanzas of it, having a duration of 3 minutes and 10 seconds, shall be sung at official functions such as the arrival of the president, unfurling of the national flag, and speeches of governors. When the national song and the national anthem are sung or played, the national song will be sung or played first, the order read. The assembly where the national song is sung shall stand in attention, it said. The order, which carried several directives, said that in all schools, the day's work shall begin with community singing of the national song.

4 suspected terrorists spotted scaling Ramtund peak in J-K's Doda; search operation underway

Jammu, Aug 11: A video purportedly showing four suspected terrorists scaling Ramtund Peak in Jammu and Kashmirs Doda district has surfaced, triggering a major anti-terror operation, officials said on Tuesday. The Ramtund area lies close to the Seoj Dhar belt of the Udhampur district, a remote and heavily forested mountainous region used by terrorists as a route for movement and, at times, as a hideout. The difficult terrain, dense forests and connectivity with adjoining mountain areas have made the belt strategically sensitive from a security perspective. According to official sources, some locals captured the footage and alerted the security forces late Monday afternoon. They added that the latest sighting has triggered a major search operation, with security forces combing the surrounding forests, ridgelines and mountain tracks to track down the suspected group. Reinforcements from the Army, police and CRPF have also been mobilised from Udhampur on Tuesday morning, and a massive operation was underway when last reports were received, the sources said. They said preliminary inputs suggest that the group may comprise three foreign terrorists and one local. However, there has been no contact with the suspected terrorists so far. The security operation is underway, with forces conducting searches across the mountainous terrain and adjoining areas, they said. Security agencies have maintained heightened vigilance in the region due to its use in the past as a possible infiltration, transit and concealment route by terrorists.

Tight security in Kashmir ahead of Independence Day celebrations

Srinagar, Aug 11: Multi-layered and robust security arrangements have been put in place across Kashmir for the peaceful conduct of the Independence Day celebrations, the valley's police chief, V K Birdi, said here on Tuesday. Speaking to reporters after reviewing the preparations at the Balidan Stambh here, Birdi, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir, said all the security arrangements have been put in place. The Jammu and Kashmir Police always maintains robust security arrangements not just in Srinagar city, but across various districts of the valley. Multi-layered security arrangements are in place, not only at the specific venues, but also in the areas surrounding the city, he added. To a question about the investigations in the recent attacks in Anantnag and Pulwama, the IGP said the investigation is ongoing. It is ongoing and so, it would not be appropriate for me to disclose that right now. Whenever there are such clear details or information to be shared with you, we will share them with you at an appropriate time, he said. He appealed to the people to participate in the Independence Day celebrations in large numbers. This is a public function. The police only act as a helper or organiser in this. We urge people to participate in these functions in large numbers and make them successful, he said. On Monday, Birdi reviewed the overall security in Kashmir and arrangements for the upcoming Independence Day celebration in the valley. He chaired a security review meeting here to assess the security and arrangements for the Independence Day celebrations and other events scheduled across all districts of the Valley. The meeting was attended by the IG BSF, IG CRPF, Additional Commissioner SB Srinagar and other officers of allied security agencies. Birdi was briefed by senior officers on the security arrangements put in place. The district police heads also briefed the chair about the preparations and security arrangements being made in their respective districts with regard to Independence Day celebrations. During the meeting, the IG directed officers to intensify area domination and patrolling, particularly in sensitive and vulnerable areas. He also reviewed the security arrangements for the main function scheduled to be held at Srinagar's Bakshi Stadium, and directed officers to ensure preparations are completed well in advance. The IG directed officers to further strengthen security checkpoints, particularly during night hours, at vulnerable locations and along the entry and exit routes of the city. He had also emphasised strict vigilance against elements inimical to peace and security and called for enhanced alertness across all jurisdictions. As part of the intensified security measures, police carried out surprise checking and frisking in Lal Chowk and other areas of the city.

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ATV riders, locals join Tiranga rally from Tangmarg to Drung

Tiranga ATV rally held in Tangmarg, concludes at Drung waterfall

Tangmarg, August 11: An ATV Tiranga Rally was organised in Tangmarg, bringing together a large number of ATV riders and local residents in a celebration of patriotism, unity and adventure. The rally was led by the Chief Executive Officer of the Gulmarg Development Authority and the Station House Officer (SHO) Tangmarg, who actively participated in and facilitated the event. Carrying the national flag prominently on their ATVs, the riders set off from Tangmarg and travelled through the scenic mountain roads towards the popular tourist destination of Drung. The tricolour remained prominently displayed throughout the journey, creating a striking spectacle against the backdrop of the mountains. Local residents also joined the rally at various points along the route, adding to the enthusiasm and participation. The rally culminated at the picturesque Drung Waterfall, where participants gathered after completing the ride. The event brought together adventure tourism and community participation while showcasing the scenic beauty of Tangmarg and Drung. The prominent display of the national flag throughout the rally also underlined its message of patriotism, unity and collective participation.

Parl panel suggests capping pvt hospital room rates at 3-star hotel tariff

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Veteran Kashmir student leader Anwar Ashai passes away

Srinagar, Aug 11 : Veteran student leader Anwar Ashai, a prominent figure in Kashmir's political history, passed away on Tuesday morning. According to a statement issued by his colleagues and acquaintances, Ashai breathed his last at around 10 am. His Namaz-e-Janazah will be offered at 5:45 pm on Tuesday at his residence in Rajbagh, Srinagar. Veteran Kashmir student leader Anwar Ashai passes away Photograph: (Facebook) Ashai was the son of noted educationist and freedom fighter late Ghulam Ahmad Ashai and was associated with student activism in Kashmir during the 1960s, a period that witnessed the emergence of organised student movements in the Valley. News of his demise was met with grief among his colleagues and acquaintances, who remembered him for his long association with Kashmir's student and political movements. Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilayhi Raji'un, the statement announcing his death said.

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Multi-layered security arrangements in place across Kashmir for Independence Day: IGP Birdi

Protest continues despite Birla's fresh appeal; Lok Sabha adjourned till 2 pm

New Delhi, Aug 11: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday appealed to opposition members to let the House function so that key Bills are passed with a constructive debate, and said Treasury and opposition benches should come on the same page to ensure there are no disruptions. His fresh appeal came a day after the government proposed a response from Home Minister Amit Shah on the use of force by the police on students protesting against NEET paper leak here on July 20. The government had said the opposition should not run away from debate and should listen to the home minister without disruptions. But the opposition has insisted that the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya should also be discussed. As the stalemate continued on Tuesday, Birla said he was anguished that the House had not been able to function and the Question Hour, wherein members hold the government accountable, could not take place. Separately, NDA members on Tuesday morning staged a protest outside the main entrance of Parliament against the police action on protestors in Jharkhand. As opposition members in the Lok Sabha refused to relent despite Birla's appeal, he adjourned the proceedings till 2 pm.

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Maharishi Sushruta: The Worlds First Surgeon and the Father of Surgery Abstract Maharishi Sushruta is revered as one of the ... Read more The post Maharishi Sushruta: The Worlds First Surgeon and the Father of Surgery appeared first on Planet Ayurveda .

Search operation launched in J-K's Poonch forests after suspicious movement

Mendhar, Aug 11: Security forces on Tuesday launched a massive joint search operation in the Mendhar sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district after noticing suspicious movement near a tunnel under construction, officials said. A security guard, who was on duty at the construction site, noticed the suspicious movement and fired three to four rounds of fire as a precautionary measure. No loss of life or damage to property has been reported so far, the officials said. Following the incident, a joint search operation was launched around 6 am by personnel of police, special operation group and CRPF in the forest areas of Bhatadurian, Sangiot and adjoining areas, they said. Further details are awaited, they said.

IFC Kashmir secures 21 victory over JK Police XI

Srinagar, Aug 10: IFC Kashmir secured a hard-fought 21 victory over JK Police XI in an exciting Srinagar Premier League 2026 encounter at TRC Ground, Srinagar, on Monday. The first half, as per a DFA statement, witnessed a closely contested battle, with both sides creating opportunities but failing to find the breakthrough. The teams went into the half-time interval level at 00. The second half saw the intensity rise as both teams pushed forward in search of the opening goal. IFC Kashmir eventually broke the deadlock and went on to score twice during the half. JK Police XI responded with a goal of their own and continued to push for an equaliser. However, IFC Kashmir remained composed in the closing stages and held on to secure a valuable 21 victory. The result gives IFC Kashmir three important points as the competition continues to gather momentum in the Srinagar Premier League 2026.

Directorate committed to expand sporting opportunities across University, its affiliated colleges: Director, DPE&S KU

Srinagar Aug 10: The Directorate of Physical Education & Sports (DPE&S), University of Kashmir (KU), convened a meeting at the Main Campus to review and take stock of the Annual Sports Calendar for the academic session 202627. The meeting, as per KU statement, was chaired by Director, DPE&S KU, Prof. Raies Ahmad Qadri, and attended by College Directors of Physical Education & Sports from affiliated colleges, and Assistant Directors & Coaches of DPE&S KU. In his opening remarks, Prof. Qadri reiterated the Directorates commitment to expanding sporting opportunities across the University and its affiliated colleges. He said, all games recognised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) would be actively promoted and incorporated into the Annual Sports Calendar, with emphasis on wider student participation, systematic training and competitive exposure. The meeting featured detailed discussions on the proposed Sports Calendar, including the scheduling and conduct of tournaments and competitions throughout the academic session. It also discussed measures for better coordination, effective participation and smooth conduct of sporting activities. The College Directors shared suggestions for expanding sports activities and creating more structured opportunities for emerging sportspersons to compete at different levels. The meeting highlighted the need for coordinated planning and broader student participation to further strengthen the sporting culture across the University and its affiliated colleges. The proceedings of the meeting were conducted by Assistant Director, DPE&S KU, Dr.Basharat Ali, while the formal vote of thanks was proposed by Assistant Director, DPE&S KU, Dr.Nadeem Ahmad Dar.

PM Modi congratulates athletes for bringing glory to nation

New Delhi, Aug 10: Prime Minister NarendraModi interacted with Indias Commonwealth Games Champions. The Prime Minister observed the transforming landscape of Indian sports over the past decade, highlighting that receiving national sportspersons at his residence has been a regular and cherished tradition throughout his 12 to 13-year tenure. He affirmed that the dedicated efforts and sustained successes of Indian athletes in securing continuous victories for the country inspire young school students far more effectively than routine promotional advice. Your medal inspires them more than anything we could say by going to schools, remarked PM Modi. The Prime Minister, as per PIB statement, interacted with an athlete who recalled a prior commitment regarding her daughters taking up sports, following up on her progress and receiving an assurance that her daughters would bring home three medals in the upcoming Commonwealth Games. He warmly validated her confidence and encouraged her commitment to excellence. The Prime Minister recognised the deep emotional journey of the athletes, remarking on the perseverance of a player who dedicated a victory achieved on Guru Purnima to his coach, and another athlete who broke into tears on the podium after overcoming four years of persistent injuries and personal hardships to see the National Flag raised. He noted that such national triumphs transcend individual achievements to become an enduring source of inspiration for future generations. This victory of yours becomes a very big inspiration for the coming generations, affirmed Shri Modi. The Prime Minister discussed the growing respect and fear commanded by Indian athletes on the international circuit, noting that global competitors now feel intimidated when drawn against Indian opponents. He specifically highlighted the rising stature of Indian boxers and acknowledged the feedback from athletes regarding the transformative role played by grassroots initiatives like the Khelo India Scheme and back-to-back competition support provided by the government. World players have now started fearing these boxers too, remarked PM Modi. The Prime Minister emphasized the core philosophy behind sports promotion, stating that athletes must continue to maintain the humble spirit of a young learner while expanding the prestige of the Khelo India initiative. He added that true national sports success depends not merely on physical infrastructure, but on building a comprehensive sports culture across the nation. Sports infrastructure is one thing, but the country achieves medals when a sports culture is built in the country, stated PM Modi. The Prime Minister acknowledged the patriotism of an Indian Army athlete who defeated his Pakistani opponent 5-0 on Kargil Vijay Diwas and dedicated his victory to the heroes of the Indian Army, remarking that such deep national pride adds extraordinary luster to athletic triumphs. He also shared lighthearted moments with an athlete recounting a humorous anecdote about his army coach, NarendraRana, and the shared name Narendra. You have not merely increased the number of medals; you have prepared a generation, noted Shri Modi. The Prime Minister praised an athlete who expressed gratitude to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for providing crucial training facilities to them, which enabled a transition from local sports centers to international podium finishes. It is a matter of great honor for me; you did the hard work and remembered me, and I am very grateful to you, remarked Shri Modi. The Prime Minister made inquiries regarding the upgraded sports infrastructure across various regional hubs, including Varanasi and Bhopal, where athletes spent time training and visiting spiritual sites like KashiVishwanath and Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain. He commended the continuous support provided by the SAI and the Khelo India framework since its inception in 2018, which has helped young talent transition smoothly to elite competitive levels. Rest assured, in the future too you will be victorious and once again we will meet right here, stated PM Modi. The Prime Minister extended his warm wishes and blessings to a multi-time medalist who celebrated her birthday during the interaction, personally offering sweets to mark the occasion and encouraging all athletes to maintain their winning momentum with a positive outlook. He smiled and gave his blessings to the contingent for their continuous third consecutive medal-winning streak. He who plays, blooms, asserted Shri Modi.

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US judge dismisses criminal case against Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani

New York, Aug 11: A US court has dismissed with prejudice the criminal charges against Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani and his nephew, bringing to an end nearly two years of proceedings in an alleged fraud and bribery case. The US District Court for the Eastern District of New York granted the Justice Department's Rule 48(a) motion to dismiss the indictment against Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani and former Adani Green CEO Vneet Jaain. The counts covered securities-fraud conspiracy, wire fraud conspiracy, and securities fraud. Judge Nicholas Garaufis allowed the Justice Department's motion after seeking additional explanations from prosecutors over their decision to abandon the case. A dismissal with prejudice permanently closes the criminal proceedings and bars the charges from being refiled, but does not amount to a judicial finding on the underlying allegations. The criminal case originated in November 2024, when US prosecutors alleged that Gautam Adani, Sagar Adani, former AGEL Chief Executive Officer Vneet Jaain and others were involved in a conspiracy to pay USD 250 million in bribes to Indian government officials to secure solar power contracts projected to generate more than USD 2 billion in after-tax profits over two decades. Prosecutors also alleged that investors were misled while the group raised more than USD 3 billion through loans and bond issuances in US markets. The Adani Group consistently denied the criminal allegations, describing them as baseless and maintaining that it had acted in accordance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements. The SEC's separate civil action has also been resolved through the final judgment against Gautam Adani, under which he consented to the order without admitting the allegations. The final judgment also requires Adani to pay a USD 6 million civil penalty to the SEC within 30 days. In its submissions before the court, the Trump administration said continuing the prosecution no longer served the interests of justice, citing significant jurisdictional and evidentiary challenges, the predominantly Indian nature of the alleged conduct, the fact that Indian authorities had examined the matter, the absence of identified investor losses and broader public-interest considerations. The DoJ also stated that the indictment, unsealed in November 2024 during the closing weeks of the previous Biden administration, had little realistic prospect of proceeding to trial and appeared to have been a politically motivated ame and shame exercise orchestrated by the outgoing administration. In dismissing the charges against Adani, Garaufis said he was satisfied that Adani's November 2024 promise to invest USD 10 billion in the United States did not factor into the Justice Department's decision, and acknowledged that judges' role in reviewing federal prosecutors' decisions to drop charges was limited. Adani welcomed the decision with humility and deep respect for the judicial process. Throughout this challenging period, our faith in truth, fairness and the rule of law remained unwavering. My deepest gratitude to those who never lost faith in us, in the system and in India's capacity for justice. We will continue doing what matters: building for our nation, creating value that outlasts us and serving a purpose larger than ourselves. That is our commitment, he said in a post on X. Before approving the request, Judge Nicholas Garaufis directed the DoJ to publicly explain its reasons for seeking dismissal and required the defendants to file sworn declarations confirming there had been no promise, offer, quid pro quo or undisclosed agreement connected with the decision. In his sworn declaration, Gautam Adani categorically denied the existence of any promise, offer, quid pro quo or undisclosed agreement relating to the DoJ's decision. After reviewing the government's submissions and the sworn declarations, the court accepted the motion and permanently dismissed the case. The dismissal means the criminal proceedings concluded before trial. No witnesses were examined, no evidence was tested in court, and no judicial findings were made on the underlying criminal allegations. The proceedings unfolded against the backdrop of heightened global scrutiny of the Adani Group following allegations made by now shuttered short seller Hindenburg Research in January 2023. The report triggered a sharp sell-off in Adani Group stocks, erasing more than USD 150 billion in market value at its lowest point. The group has consistently rejected those allegations and maintained that it complied with all applicable laws and disclosure requirements. The court found that the DOJ had met the legal requirements for dismissal on one ground: its argument that alleged statements about Adani Green's anti-bribery policies and corporate compliance could amount to inactionable puffery - broad statements that investors could not reasonably rely on - creating legal risks for the prosecution. The judge rejected or found insufficient several other reasons advanced by the government. These included the argument that the alleged misconduct occurred almost entirely in India and therefore presented significant US securities-law jurisdictional risks. The court noted that the indictment itself alleged that investors committed funds in the United States and that the transactions involved the US financial system. The court also found that the government's argument concerning the absence of sophisticated-investor deception did not provide sufficient support, while noting it did not need to reach that issue because the puffery rationale was sufficient to dismiss the three counts. The dismissal was with prejudice, meaning the three charges cannot simply be brought again. The court said there was no concern about prosecutorial harassment because the government had requested dismissal with prejudice and the appearing defendants had consented to it.

Magnitude 7.4 quake hits western Colombia, killing at least 111 people

Bogota (Colombia), Aug 10: A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing at least 111 people, damaging hundreds of buildings and leaving many trapped under debris while their loved ones and rescue workers searched through rubble. Colombia's President Abelardo de la Espriella said at least 87 people were injured and declared an emergency to expedite funding for the quake recovery while saying he would visit the disaster zone. We aren't going to leave people alone. They are in our hearts, and we are going to tend to people with our full determination, he said. The epicentre was in San Jose Del Palmar, a community of about 4,800 people in the Choco region, about 250 miles (400 kilometres) west of Bogota, the US Geological Survey said. The quake was also felt in neighbouring Ecuador and Panama, though minimal damage was reported there. The quake ravaged cities across the west of the country, including Pereira, Quibdo, Cali and Manizales. Residents and search teams picked through the rubble of collapsed buildings amid concerns by authorities of aftershocks. Colombia's interior minister said more than 20 municipalities across the country had been hit. Colombia's Pacific region around the quake's epicentre lies along the Ring of Fire, the line of seismic faults encircling the Pacific Ocean where most of the world's earthquakes occur. The Pacific, particularly the Choco region, is one of the poorest regions in the country. Nestled in the dense jungle, much of Choco is highly rural and only reachable by boat or plane, which may pose a problem for authorities in assessing the wider toll. Most powerful quake in the last decade, authorities say --------------------------------------------------------------- Jorge Moncayo, a 64-year-old taxi driver in Cali, said he saw plumes of dust shoot up across the city as buildings collapsed. Residents and rescue workers were searching the rubble for survivors. My entire house shook. I've never lived through such a powerful earthquake, he said. We're thanking God we're alive. Before the president gave the latest death toll of at least 111 people, local officials had confirmed that at least 40 people were killed in the Risaralda region, where the hard-hit city of Pereira is located, and 27 people in the Valle del Cauca region, where Colombia's third-biggest city, Cali, is located. At least three of those killed in Valle del Cauca were children, the governor said. Authorities also confirmed nine people were killed in Choco, two more in the Caldas region and a 73-year-old in the Antioquia region. Colombia's Geological Service said Monday that it had been the highest magnitude earthquake registered in Colombia in the last decade and that it had been followed by two 2.8 and 4.8 magnitude aftershocks. Authorities also reported that flights were suspended in the airports of Manizales, Quibdo, Armenia, Cartago, Buenaventura and Pereira. The earthquakes left many in the Andean nation unnerved after two back-to-back quakes devastated neighbouring Venezuela in late June, destroyed hundreds of buildings and killed more than 5,000 people. At the same time, the quake brought down buildings in Colombia, and desperate families in Venezuela continued to search the ruins for the bodies of their loved ones. In Pereira, photos and videos published by local media showed pieces of the airport ceiling falling down on travellers taking shelter and screaming, and people running through rubble in a panic. Pereira's mayor, Mauricio Salazar, told a local radio station that at least 18 people had died and that many more were trapped under a massive quantity of collapsed buildings. In nearby Manizales, a city in the coffee-producing mountains of Colombia, one of the towers of the neo-Gothic cathedral collapsed and fell on the nave. Jorge Eduardo Rojas, the mayor of Manizales, asked residents to stay outside in case of aftershocks. Authorities in the rural state of Choco, the epicentre of the quake, reported injured people and damaged buildings in the capital, but provided few details. In Cali, a city of 2 million people, Mayor Alejandro Eder said that residents were trapped in at least 19 buildings that had collapsed. Powerful quakes are rare in Colombia, where smaller quakes are common ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Small earthquakes, known as temblores, are common in central and western Colombia, but those above 6.0 magnitude are rare. In 1999, a 6.2 magnitude quake near the city of Armenia killed more than 1,100 people. Colombia's newly inaugurated President Abelardo de la Espriella said Monday that he had personally taken charge of the government's response to the emergency in San Jose del Palmar following the earthquake. You are not alone. The state is present and taking action, he said. Response to the earthquake presents the first major challenge to de la Espriella, a Trump ally who was sworn in as president over the weekend. Messages of support rolled in from leaders across the Americas, including Mexico, Brazil, Ecuador, El Salvador and the United States. The Trump administration is closely monitoring the large earthquake that struck Colombia and stands ready to support the people of Colombia, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrote in a post on X. A number of countries offered aid, and the UN deputy spokesman, Farhan Haq, said, We stand ready to help as needed.

At Least 20 Killed as 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Western Colombia

At least 20 people have been killed after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, according to local officials, with strong tremors felt across the country and in neighbouring nations, reports BBC. The earthquake struck at 07:34 local time at an estimated depth of 88 km (55 miles), Colombias geological service said. The epicentre was in the San Jos del Palmar area of Choc region. Quoting local officials, the BBC reported that at least 20 people had died in the earthquake, while rescue and emergency teams were assessing the extent of casualties and damage. The shaking was felt across large parts of Colombia, including the capital Bogot, where several buildings were evacuated. Tremors were also reported in neighbouring Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama. Earlier, Choc Governor Nubia Carolina Crdoba said people had been injured and warned of possible aftershocks. Reports and videos from the affected areas showed significant structural damage. In Manizales, footage shared by Colombian newspaper El Tiempo showed a collapsed building, while social media videos showed the spire of a church collapsing. A nearby building was also seen with deep cracks in its faade. Colombias aviation authority reported damage at several regional airports, including those in Pereira, Manizales, Quibd, Armenia, Cartago and Buenaventura. The earthquake has raised concerns about further casualties as emergency services continue search and rescue operations in affected areas. The disaster comes less than two months after twin earthquakes devastated parts of northern Venezuela, killing more than 6,100 people.

Kashmir grape growers get scientific farming lessons from Grape Man of India

Kashmirs grape growers received valuable insights from renowned grape expert and Krishi Ratna Anil G. Meher, popularly known as the Grape Man of India, during a Grape Day organised by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal at Kralbagh in collaboration with J&K Bank, Shuhama, today. The farmer-centric programme brought together scientists, agricultural experts and a large number of growers to promote scientific grape cultivation, improved orchard management and stronger farmerscientist linkages. Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir, was the Chief Guest, while Shri Anil G. Meher attended as the Guest of Honour. Officers and officials of SKUAST-Kashmir, scientists and farmers participated in the programme. Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth underscored the importance of farmerscientist interaction in addressing field-level challenges and accelerating the adoption of improved agricultural technologies. She encouraged farmers to embrace scientific practices for improving productivity, quality and profitability, while assuring continued technical support from SKUAST-K. Addressing the gathering, Anil G. Meher shared his extensive experience in grape cultivation and encouraged farmers to adopt improved and scientific practices to enhance productivity, quality and returns. He stressed the importance of staying connected with agricultural experts and making effective use of technical guidance available to the farming community. Dr Ajaz Ahmad Malik, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Ganderbal, highlighted the role of KVKs in providing location-specific technical guidance and facilitating the transfer of scientific knowledge to farmers. He emphasized that regular interaction with growers helps identify field-level challenges and develop practical solutions suited to local conditions. Prof. Aroosa Khalil, Division of Fruit Science, SKUAST-Kashmir, shared technical insights on scientific grape cultivation, orchard management and recommended horticultural practices for improving grape yield and quality. She also interacted with farmers and responded to their queries on various aspects of grape production. Representing J&K Bank, Shuhama, Ifrah Yaqoob, Manager, reiterated the banks commitment to supporting the farming community and assured farmers of necessary financial assistance for their agricultural activities. The programme provided farmers an opportunity to directly interact with the visiting grape expert, university scientists and officers and discuss challenges related to grape cultivation. The experts assured the growers of continued technical guidance and institutional support. The interactive session concluded with an emphasis on strengthening farmerscientistinstitution linkages and promoting scientific, sustainable and profitable grape cultivation in the region.

Nissan Tekton unveiled in Jammu, enters regions SUV market

Nissans latest SUV, the Tekton, was unveiled in Jammu on Monday, marking the vehicles entry into the local market and strengthening the Japanese automakers presence in the region. The launch event brought together business leaders, media representatives, public figures and automobile enthusiasts. The vehicle was showcased as Nissans latest offering in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, with emphasis on its design, technology and performance. Ufair Ajaz, Director of Kitab Mobility, Nissan, was among the prominent personalities present at the launch. His participation highlighted the dealerships role in expanding Nissans presence and customer outreach in Jammu and Kashmir. The event was also attended by Ramban MLA Arjun Singh Raju, journalist and Daily Taskeen Editor-in-Chief Sahil Kazmi, and senior journalist Manoj Ashat Ganie, besides representatives of the automobile and business sectors. The Tekton was launched nationally by Nissan Motor India on July 9, with introductory prices starting at Rs 10.49 lakh for the T160 range. The premium SUV is available with turbo-petrol powertrains, including a 1.0-litre unit and a more powerful 1.3-litre engine. The latter is offered with both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmission options. Nissan has positioned the Tekton as a key model in its renewed India strategy. The SUV features styling inspired by Nissans Patrol and comes with technology including Google built-in connectivity. It is manufactured at Nissans Chennai facility and is intended for both the Indian market and exports. During the Jammu event, guests were given an opportunity to view the vehicle and interact with representatives about its features and specifications. The local launch is expected to give customers in Jammu and the wider region access to Nissans latest SUV offering as the company seeks to expand its footprint in Indias growing SUV market.

Bank frauds in J&K: Cases plunge 78%, money involved soars 306%

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a sharp escalation in the value of banking and financial fraud despite a steep decline in the number of reported cases, with frauds involving Rs 322.31 crore recorded across scheduled commercial banks and financial institutions during the three financial years from 2023-24 to 2025-26. The latest data furnished by the Union Ministry of Finance in the Lok Sabha on August 3, compiled from Reserve Bank of India records, show that 868 fraud cases were reported in Jammu and Kashmir during the three years. Against the Rs 322.31 crore involved, only Rs 12.80 crore was recovered. The figures reveal a striking change in the pattern of fraud in the Union Territory. The number of cases declined from 467 in 2023-24 to 298 in 2024-25 and further to 103 in 2025-26. However, the amount involved increased from Rs 47.55 crore to Rs 81.27 crore and then surged to Rs 193.49 crore in 2025-26. In other words, reported cases declined by nearly 78 per cent over the three years, while the amount involved increased by more than four times. The latest year was particularly significant. In 2025-26, just 103 cases accounted for Rs 193.49 crorethe highest annual amount recorded in the three-year period. Banks recovered Rs 6.92 crore from these cases. The recovery figures for the three years were Rs 3.23 crore in 2023-24, Rs 2.65 crore in 2024-25 and Rs 6.92 crore in 2025-26. Cumulatively, this amounts to Rs 12.80 crore, or less than four per cent of the Rs 322.31 crore involved. The data suggest that while the frequency of reported fraud has fallen, the average financial exposure per case has risen sharply. The average amount involved was around 10 lakh per case in 2023-24. It rose to about Rs 27 lakh in 2024-25 and jumped to nearly Rs 1.88 crore per case in 2025-26. The problem assumes a much larger dimension when viewed against the national banking-fraud data. According to the category-wise RBI data submitted to Parliament, scheduled commercial banks and All India Financial Institutions reported frauds involving about Rs 11,677.86 crore in 2023-24, Rs 32,043.21 crore in 2024-25 and RS 47,910.05 crore in 2025-26. This translates into a cumulative Rs 91,631 crore of frauds reported nationally over the three-year period. The corresponding J&K figure of Rs 322.31 crore represents roughly 0.35 per cent of the national amount. The national data also show that the largest financial exposure is linked to advances or lending-related frauds. In 2025-26 alone, 10,678 frauds relating to advances involved 40,739.74 crore, of which Rs 2,787.90 crore was recovered. By contrast, card and internet frauds accounted for 5,997 cases involving 35.85 crore during the same year, with 10.11 crore recovered. The figures demonstrate the distinction between the number of fraud incidents and their monetary value. Importantly, the Rs 193.49 crore figure for Jammu and Kashmir should not be described as fraud involving Jammu and Kashmir Bank alone. The parliamentary data cover frauds reported by scheduled commercial banks, excluding Regional Rural Banks, and All India Financial Institutions operating in the Union Territory. The government has not provided a bank-wise breakup in the document. The Finance Ministry said the RBI does not maintain the requested data on amounts frozen, recovered and refunded to victims in the precise state-wise and category-wise format sought in Parliament. It also said there are no fixed timelines for recovery because fraud cases can involve multiple agencies, institutions, tribunals and courts. Banks are required to immediately report fraud incidents to the relevant law-enforcement agencies, including State and UT police, the Serious Fraud Investigation Office and the Central Bureau of Investigation, depending on the amount involved. For recovery, banks can initiate civil proceedings, approach Debt Recovery Tribunals, invoke provisions of the SARFAESI Act and pursue insolvency proceedings before the National Company Law Tribunal under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. The government has also strengthened mechanisms for dealing with digital financial fraud. The RBIs Central Fraud Registry enables banks to identify and mitigate fraud risks, while its AI-based MuleHunter tool is designed to identify money-mule accounts. The Indian Digital Payment Intelligence Corporation has also been established to analyse and prevent fraud in the digital payments ecosystem using AI, machine learning and big-data technologies. For cyber-enabled financial fraud, complaints lodged through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal or helpline 1930 feed into the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System, which links police agencies with banks and financial intermediaries. The system can facilitate tracing of funds and immediate lien marking before the money leaves the financial system.

Body of 2-year old drowned boy recovered from Achabal river

The body of a two-year-old boy was recovered from a river at Sansooma village of Achabal in south Kashmirs Anantnag district on Monday after he drowned, officials said. An official told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the boy accidentally fell into the river, following which locals launched a search operation. He said the body was later retrieved from the water and handed over to police for further proceedings. The deceased was identified as Abuzar (02), son of Ishtiyaq Ahmad Shilla, a resident of Sansooma, Achabal. Police have taken cognisance of the incident

CBC begins Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan outreach at Gadakhud, Sumbal

The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, today commenced a two-day Integrated Communication and Outreach Programme (ICOP) on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan at Government Higher Secondary School, Gadakhud, Sumbal, Bandipora. The programme was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Ms. Indu Kanwal Chib. The inaugural session witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, parents, officials and members of the local community. Resource persons from the Health, Social Welfare, School Education, Police and District Administration departments sensitised participants about the causes and consequences of substance abuse, as well as measures related to prevention, treatment, counselling and rehabilitation. Welcoming the participants, Shri Naseer Ahmad Rather, Field Publicity Officer, CBC Srinagar, highlighted the role of CBC in disseminating information on flagship programmes and welfare initiatives of the Government of India. He emphasised the importance of timely awareness and community participation in addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse and underlined the role of parents and teachers in identifying early signs of addiction among youth. Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Ms. Indu Kanwal Chib, reiterated the district administrations commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking. She urged young people to channelise their energies towards education, sports and other constructive pursuits, while stressing that awareness, prevention, counselling, rehabilitation and collective social responsibility are essential components of the fight against drugs. Shri Shahid Mohammad Lone, Field Publicity Officer, CBC Anantnag, reaffirmed CBCs commitment to taking the message of a drug-free society to schools, villages and communities through sustained outreach activities. He called for a united effort by all stakeholders to address the menace of substance abuse. Chief Education Officer Bandipora, Shri M. Rafiq Mir, highlighted the importance of education and a supportive environment in shaping responsible and informed youth. Station House Officer, Sumbal, Shri Mohammad Saleem Mir, briefed participants on the role of law enforcement in curbing drug trafficking and explained relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Dr. Reyaz Ahmad, Medical Officer, spoke about the adverse health consequences of substance abuse and highlighted the importance of counselling and timely intervention. He also informed participants about the Government of Indias Tele-MANAS mental health support initiative and helpline 14416. Tehsil Social Welfare Officer, Sumbal, Shri Fayaz Ahmad Lone, elaborated on welfare and support mechanisms available for affected individuals and families. The programme featured a photo exhibition on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, cultural performances by empanelled cultural troupes, and student participation in speech, painting and quiz competitions aimed at promoting awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. The participants also administered a pledge to stay away from drugs, discourage drug trafficking and contribute towards building a Drug-Free Jammu & Kashmir and Drug-Free India.

Govt Assurances panel flags waterlogging, seeks equitable road funding

The Committee on Government Assurances of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly today convened a meeting at the Assembly Complex here to review the functioning of the Public Works Department (PWD) and Housing & Urban Development Department (HUDD). The meeting was chaired by Chairman of the Committee, Ali Mohammad Sagar and attended by members including MLA Ghulam Mohi Ud Din Mir, MLA Iftkar Ahmad, MLA Waheed ur Rehman Para and MLA Shabir Ahmad Kullay. Commissioner Secretary, HUDD, Mandeep Kaur; Commissioner SMC, Fazlul Haseeb; Commissioner JMC, Devansh Yadav; VC LCMA, VCs of JDA and SDA besides Secretary, JKLA, Manoj Kumar Pandita and officers of the Assembly Secretariat were also present in the meeting. During the meeting, the Committee held detailed deliberations on the constituency-wise allocation of funds under the Roads Sector for 2026-27. The Committee also reviewed the status of UT Capex Budget, NABARD works and PMGSY projects across J&K. Speaking during the meeting, the Chairman Ali Mohammad Sagar emphasized that development must reach every corner of J&K without any bias and directed the departments to ensure equitable distribution of resources. Taking serious note of water logging in Srinagar, he observed that citizens face immense difficulties during rains. He directed the HUDD to furnish detailed ATRs and submit a time-bound action plan to resolve drainage issues before the onset of the next season. Ali Sagar, while addressing the officers, said that the Committee values the experience and institutional knowledge of officers. He said that J&K has some of the most seasoned engineers and administrators who understand the local terrain, weather challenges and public needs better than anyone else. He stressed that this vast experience must be utilized to ensure quality, durability and transparency in execution of all developmental projects. The Chairman stressed that all members of the Committee have been assigned the responsibility to ensure that development reaches the grassroots and all projects are executed in a transparent and time-bound manner in line with the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision of the Prime Minister. He added that coordination between Legislature and Executive is the key to responsive governance and timely delivery of public services.

JKSA delegation meets Kapil Sibal over J&K recruitment irregularities, seeks Parliament intervention

A delegation of the Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Sunday met President Supreme Court Bar Association and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Kapil Sibal at his residence in New Delhi and held a detailed discussion on a range of issues concerning Jammu & Kashmir, with particular focus on students, unemployed youth, recruitment processes, institutional accountability and the concerns of people from J&K living and working across the country. As per a press release, the delegation was led by National Convenor of Association Nasir Khuehami and accompanied by senior office-bearers of the Associations Delhi unit, including Saqib Naikoo, Mohammad Nazim and Irshad Ahmad. During the meeting, the delegation apprised Sibal of the persistent challenges confronting students, job aspirants and unemployed youth in Jammu & Kashmir, including recurring recruitment scams, paper leaks, examination irregularities, recruitment cancellations, procedural lapses, delays and prolonged uncertainty surrounding government recruitment processes. Khuehami highlighted major recruitment controversies in recent years, including those relating to the Jammu & Kashmir Police Sub-Inspector (JKPSI), Finance Accounts Assistant (FAA), Junior Engineer (Civil), Fire and Emergency Services and other recruitment examinations that have faced allegations of irregularities, paper leaks, manipulation and institutional lapses.

GCC pays tributes to former PCCF Ghulam Hassan Kangoo

The Group of Concerned Citizens, J&K (GCC) has expressed sorrow at the passing away of a GCC stalwart , Ghulam Hassan Kangoo-- former Principal Chief Conservator Forests. Describing GH Kangoo as one of the foremost forest conservation experts of J&K and a highly dedicated social activist, GCC recalled Kangoo's contribution to the working of GCC and his strong commitment to public welfare and public interest. Kangoo sahib will be greatly missed in GCC as in society at large, said a statement issued by the Group. GCC has also lauded the outstanding services rendered by late GH Kangoo over about four decades to the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir as a forest officer from ACF to PCCF and conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

Dr Farooq, CM Omar condole demise of Ghulam Hassan Kangoo

National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah and Vice President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have expressed deep sorrow over the demise of former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (IFS) Ghulam Hassan Kangoo. Dr Farooq visited the residence of Ghulam Hassan Kangoo at Rajbagh to offer his condolences to the bereaved family. Kangoo, a native of Sopore, passed away on Saturday. Dr Farooq Abdullah conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the family, particularly his sons, Ajaz Ahmed Kangoo and Dr Adil Ahmed Kangoo, and prayed for strength and fortitude for them to bear the irreparable loss. He also offered Fateha Khawani and prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the departed soul eternal peace and the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous.

Engaging with youth pivotal for J&Ks growth: Ghulam Hassan Mir

Former Cabinet Minister and Apni Party Senior Vice President Ghulam Hassan Mir on Monday said that the Apni Party is keen to engage with the younger generation, as young people are key stakeholders and the future of society. He said that the youth must be taken on board and actively involved in the process of shaping a better and brighter future for themselves. Mir made these remarks today while addressing a party event at its headquarters in Srinagar. The event was organised to welcome a large number of young people from Srinagars Bemina area. Among the prominent entrants were Mohsin Saqib Wani, Akeed Mushtaq, Danish Mushtaq, Umeed Bazaz, Junaid Muzaffar Bhat, and others. They joined the party along with their respective teams. Addressing the occasion, Ghulam Hassan Mir said, Apni Partys policies and agenda are primarily aimed at striving for a better future for our youth. Our vision is to build a future that offers greater prospects, prosperity, and better livelihood opportunities. However, to achieve this, we must create an environment that enables our youth to realise their potential, pursue their aspirations, and build a secure and prosperous future. We need to create the right conditions for our youth to grow, prosper, and contribute meaningfully to the development of Jammu and Kashmir. He further said, When the Apni Party said that our politics is rooted in truthfulness, our opponents made fun of it. But when we speak of the politics of truthfulness, we mean that we do not want to mislead our younger generation with emotional slogans and unattainable goals. The fact is that the older generation bears much of the responsibility for the miseries our youth are facing today. Traditional political parties failed to create a conducive environment for our young people. Instead, they led them down a path where the choices before them were often either imprisonment or death, Mir added. Ghulam Hassan Mir said that Apni Partys politics is about breaking away from that cycle. We believe our youth deserve a future built on opportunity, dignity, peace, and realistic aspirationsnot empty slogans and promises that can never be fulfilled. He further said that there was a time when our youth were pushed towards violence and a culture of guns. Many years have passed since then, but those who were young at the time are still suffering the consequences. Some remain in jails, while others continue to face difficulties because they are repeatedly summoned to police stations. Taking a dig at the government, Mir said, Unfortunately, our elected government has failed to deliver effective governance. The ruling party sought votes from the people by promising to address their pressing issues and grievances. However, after receiving a massive mandate from the people, they now claim that they do not have the power to address public concerns. The fact is that they lack the will, rather than the ability, to address the issues confronting the people. The people gave them a clear mandate and placed their trust in them, but instead of taking responsibility and working to resolve their problems, they have chosen to make excuses and shift the blame, Mir added. Why is it that this government does not even talk about detainees or do anything to stop the harassment of our youth? Why doesnt it take concrete steps to ensure that young people are able to obtain passports without unnecessary difficulty? And why is it not doing anything substantial to create meaningful job opportunities for our youth? Mir asked. When an elected government fails to care for the future of its youth and does not provide them with the necessary facilities, opportunities, and avenues for growth, it loses its moral right to continue in office. He added. Ghulam Hassan Mir reiterated his demand for the Government of India to engage with the youth of Jammu and Kashmir through a meaningful dialogue aimed at understanding their issues and concerns and addressing them effectively. He said that such a dialogue between the Central Government and the youth of J&K is imperative to rebuild trust and bridge the prevailing trust deficit. Speaking on the occasion, parties Chief Coordinator & District President Kulgam Abdul Majeed Paddar, assured the new entrants that Apni Party would provide them with ample opportunities to contribute towards building a better future and serving the people. He appealed to the younger generation to support Apni Party so that, together, we can strive for a brighter, more prosperous, and secure future for the youth and generations to come. Besides Mir and Paddar, the prominent party leaders who were present on this occasion included State Vice President Mohammad Syed Akhoon, Provincial President Kashmir Mohammad Ashraf Mir, and others.

Traffic jams pester commuters in Srinagar

Massive traffic congestion affected large parts of Srinagar on Monday as the reopening of schools and offices after the weekend triggered heavy vehicular movement across the city. Commuters called for better traffic management and stricter action against roadside parking and encroachments. Long queues of vehicles were witnessed during peak morning and evening hours in several areas, including Nowhatta, Khanyar, Nowpora, Nallahmar Road, City Centre, and adjoining localities. Traffic movement remained slow for hours, leaving commuters stranded and disrupting daily routines. Residents said the situation has become increasingly difficult in downtown areas where narrow roads, roadside parking and heavy pedestrian movement combine to create persistent bottlenecks. There was hardly any movement for several minutes at many places. A journey that normally takes 15 minutes consumed nearly an hour today, said commuter Fayaz Ahmad, who was travelling through the Khanyar and Nowhatta areas. Authorities need to deploy more traffic personnel during peak hours because the present arrangements are clearly inadequate, he added. Another commuter, Shabir Hussain of Hawal, said school buses, public transport, private vehicles and commercial traffic converging at the same time resulted in complete chaos. Traffic diversions and better regulation at major junctions can significantly reduce congestion, he said. The problem was further aggravated by indiscriminate roadside parking in commercial areas such as Rajouri Kadal, Bohri Kadal, Maharaj Gunj and adjoining markets, where the absence of dedicated parking facilities forces motorists to leave their vehicles along road margins, reducing the carriageway. Pedestrians also expressed concern over the increasing encroachment of footpaths by roadside vendors, saying they are often forced to walk on busy roads, exposing themselves to speeding traffic. Footpaths are meant for pedestrians, but many stretches have virtually disappeared because of roadside vending. We have no option but to walk on the road, which is risky, particularly during rush hours, said Nusrat Jan, a pedestrian. Locals pointed to the stretch in front of Eidgah Park and along Ali Masjid and Dr Ali Jan Road, where fruit sellers, vegetable vendors and other roadside traders have occupied significant portions of the footpath and roadside, narrowing the available space for vehicles and contributing to frequent traffic jams. The road itself is narrow and in bad condition, and once vehicles are parked along the roadside while vendors occupy the footpaths, movement comes to a crawl, said local resident Mohammad Yousuf. Earlier, Traffic Police officials acknowledged the heavy rush witnessed on Monday and said personnel had been deployed at major junctions across the city. We are continuously conducting enforcement drives and deploying traffic personnel at important intersections. The influx of school buses during peak hours further adds to congestion, an official said.

Dilapidated Noor Bagh-Qamarwari road irks commuters

Dilapidated Noor Bagh-Qamarwari road stretch continues to cause inconvenience to commuters, residents and traders, with a damaged surface, deep potholes and absence of blacktopping making travel difficult along the busy route. Residents said the road, which connects several Downtown localities with the city centre, has remained in a battered condition for a considerable period after drainage works were carried out. They said a major portion of the stretch is yet to be properly macadamised, forcing motorists to negotiate uneven patches and broken sections on a daily basis. Locals said the condition of the road has deteriorated further following multiple spells of rainfall witnessed across Srinagar over the past month. They said rainwater has widened potholes and damaged the already worn-out surface, making commuting increasingly challenging. The road witnesses heavy movement of vehicles throughout the day as office-goers, students and other commuters frequently use the stretch. With schools having reopened after the summer break, residents said the traffic volume has increased further, resulting in slow-moving traffic as motorists carefully navigate the damaged portions. Driving on this road has become extremely difficult. Motorists are forced to slow down abruptly to avoid potholes, and this often leads to traffic congestion during peak hours. The condition is particularly risky for two-wheeler riders, said Bilal Ahmad, a commuter. Residents said the road becomes even more hazardous during rainy weather as potholes remain submerged under water, making it difficult for motorists to assess the extent of the damage. After every spell of rain, the potholes fill with water and the road becomes slippery. Several vehicles have developed mechanical problems after passing through these damaged patches, said Nisar Ahmad, a local resident. Traders operating along the stretch said the damaged road has also become a source of persistent dust pollution during dry weather. Whenever vehicles pass, thick clouds of dust rise and settle on shops and displayed items. We have to clean our shops several times a day, and customers are also inconvenienced, said a shopkeeper. Residents urged the authorities to take up blacktopping of the road without further delay, stating that the stretch serves thousands of commuters every day and requires immediate attention. Greater Kashmir has repeatedly highlighted the deteriorating condition of roads and civic infrastructure in several downtown areas, including Noor Bagh, where residents have consistently sought timely repairs and restoration. Earlier, officials had stated that blacktopping and restoration of damaged road stretches in downtown areas would be taken up on a priority basis.

SSP Jammu flags off Tiranga bike rally

Jammu, Aug 10: Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu Joginder Singh on Monday flagged off a Tiranga bike rally from District Police Lines (DPL), Jammu, marking the spirit of patriotism, national unity and pride ahead of Independence Day. The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation of Police personnel carrying the tricolour with pride and spreading the message of unity, integrity and devotion to the nation. The rally covered the area of Satwari, Gandhinagar, Channi Himmat and nearby locations to spread the message of Har Ghar Tiranga. The event was attended by SSP Jammu, SP Headquarters, SP City South, DySP DAR, SDPO City East, SDPO City South and all SHOs, along with other police officers and personnel.

Jammu Division railway sets up new benchmark with highest-ever single-day punctuality record

Jammu, Aug 10: Jammu Division Railway on Monday stated to have set a new benchmark for efficiency within Indian Railways with highest-ever single-day punctuality record for Mail and Express trains on July 31. Adding a historic chapter to Indian Railways' operations, Jammu Division has achieved its highest-ever single-day punctuality record for Mail and Express trains. On July 31, 2026, the division recorded an exceptional punctuality rate of 94.12 percent, marking a golden milestone in its operational history. This new record significantly surpasses the division's previous best performance of 92.59 percent, achieved on February 20, 2025, Jammu Railway Division Public Relations Inspector (PRI) said. The official statement mentioned that a remarkable triumph over challenging operational hurdles, the success was particularly noteworthy as it was achieved not under ideal conditions, but amidst complex, large-scale infrastructure modernization work. It stated that Jammu Division maintained this impeccable schedule while successfully executing multiple major traffic and maintenance blocks across the network. Beyond routine maintenance, complex technical tasks were carried out without disrupting passenger travel. The power of precise planning and unparalleled teamwork lies behind this statistical victory; it is a story of human coordination, meticulous planning, and round-the-clock hard work. Railway officials attribute this historic success directly to the flawless synergy between ground staff and core management teams. Notably, the Control Office served as the nerve centre of this entire operation, the official statement mentioned. The PRI asserted that the constant monitoring, careful planning and the ability to make quick decisions, control room staff successfully averted potential delays in a timely manner. The dedication demonstrated by officials, trackmen, engineers, and technicians reflects the Railways' commitment to passenger safety and the value of their time. With this historic achievementsetting new standards for the passenger experiencethe Jammu Division has sent a clear message that infrastructure development and passenger convenience can go hand in hand, it was stated, adding that by proving that major maintenance operations needed not result in train delays, the division set an exemplary precedent for other railway divisions across the country.

Jal Jeevan Mission has become a dead body: Baramulla MLA tears into Jal Shakti Department

Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig Monday launched a sharp attack on the functioning of the Jal Shakti Department, questioning the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission in J&K saying the government must find a way to give the dead body a new life. During a joint review meeting called by MLA Baramulla and MLA Uri Dr Sajad Shafi, Javid Hassan Baig urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ascertain what had happened to the scheme in Jammu and Kashmir over the past six years. Has the slogan of Har Ghar Jal reached every house hold,? Baig asked. MLA Baramulla urged the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene and find a solution to the problems plaguing the implementation of the scheme. If the Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes to know what has happened to JJM in J&K over the last six years, heads will roll here, MLA Baramulla said. Taking a dig at the much-publicised Har Ghar Jal objective, he said the slogan was yet to translate into access to drinking water for every household. He said merely holding meetings and constituting committees would not resolve the issue. We have to find a way to save its life, he said He urged the administration to revive the scheme and ensure that its benefits reach people on the ground. MLA Baramulla also questioned the preparedness of officials attending review meetings, alleging that several officers were unable to provide basic information about ongoing works and projects in their respective areas. What is the fun of holding such a meeting when you dont know anything? he asked the officials. He directed the officials to come prepared for the next review meeting. The MLA said he could identify the status of development works in villages across his constituency and challenged officials to provide details of projects of their respective departments under their jurisdiction. MLA Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig expressed strong displeasure over what he termed as lack of preparedness and said officers should not attend review meetings without having complete information about the works being executed in their areas. He also raised questions over the functioning of the department, promotions and accountability of officials. Incompetent officers are being rewarded while basic issues remained unresolved, he said. The MLA further questioned delays in water-related works, including tenders and execution of projects, and sought greater accountability from officials and contractors. The administration must ensure that contractors entrusted with water supply works actually deliver on the projects for which tenders have been issued, he said.

Dozens of PDP workers join NC in Gool, Banihal

Banihal, Aug 10:Dozens of prominent workers and activists associated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Gool on Monday joined the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (NC) in Banihal, reaffirming their faith in the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the people-centric development agenda being pursued by the NC-led government. Welcoming the new entrants into the party fold, senior National Conference leader and MLA Banihal-Gool, Sajjad Shaheen, as per a statement, said that the growing influx of people into the National Conference was a clear endorsement of the partys politics of development, dignity, secularism and protection of the rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Shaheen said the people were increasingly recognising the difference between those who stood with them during difficult times and those who compromised their political positions for short-term power. He said the PDPs 2014 alliance with the BJP had left a deep political and institutional legacy for which the people of Jammu & Kashmir were still paying a heavy price. Those who promised to safeguard the interests and special status of Jammu & Kashmir ultimately joined hands with the BJP. The PDPs politics of opportunism and its alliance with the BJP contributed to the political circumstances in which the special constitutional position of Jammu & Kashmir was subsequently downgraded and eroded. The people have neither forgotten nor forgiven this betrayal, Shaheen said. He accused the PDP leadership of practicing a dual politics, claiming to champion the interests of Jammu & Kashmir while simultaneously enabling forces whose political agenda was contrary to the aspirations and constitutional rights of the people of the erstwhile state. The people of Jammu & Kashmir are today paying the price of the political misjudgments and compromises of those who betrayed the trust reposed in them. History will judge those who chose power over principles, he said. Shaheen asserted that the National Conference, in contrast, has consistently remained a guardian of the political, constitutional and democratic rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, irrespective of circumstances. From Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah to Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, the National Conference has never abandoned the people of Jammu & Kashmir. We have faced difficult periods, stood against injustice and continued to raise our voice for the dignity, identity, rights and democratic aspirations of our people, he said. He said the growing support for the National Conference was also a reflection of the people's appreciation of the development-oriented and people-friendly governance under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Shaheen highlighted what he described as a renewed and equitable development push across Jammu & Kashmir, saying that infrastructure, roads, education, health, power, water supply, tourism, sports and other sectors were receiving focused attention. He said the objective was not merely to develop urban centres but to ensure that remote, hilly and historically neglected areas also received their rightful share of development. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, development is being pursued on the principle of equity. From the plains to the mountains and from towns to remote villages, every region is being brought into the development process. Banihal-Gool is also witnessing this transformation, he said. Referring specifically to the Banihal-Gool constituency, Shaheen said several major development initiatives had either been sanctioned, approved or taken up during the present tenure. He said the ongoing development process was aimed at creating better connectivity, employment opportunities, educational facilities, healthcare infrastructure and economic avenues for the people, particularly those living in remote mountainous areas. Welcoming the former PDP workers, Shaheen said their decision to join the National Conference demonstrated that political workers were increasingly seeking a platform rooted in principles, public service and inclusive development. The doors of the National Conference remain open to all those who believe in democratic values, secularism, social justice, development and the political and constitutional rights of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, he said. Shaheen said the latest political shift in Gool was not merely an organisational development for the National Conference but a reflection of a larger change in public sentiment, with people choosing performance, accessibility and principled politics over political opportunism. He called upon party workers to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and remain connected with the people, saying that the National Conference would continue to work towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people and building a more equitable, peaceful and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir.

Compensatory plantation eludes Srinagar-Baramulla highway despite large-scale tree felling

The long-awaited four-laning of the Srinagar-Baramulla highway is nearing completion, promising smoother traffic and better connectivity across north Kashmir. But the project has also exacted a significant environmental toll, with large stretches of the once tree-lined highway cleared of vegetation to make way for the expanded road. A substantial portion of the four-lane project has been completed, barring two bypass stretches, Pattan and Baramulla bypass. The expanded highway has considerably eased traffic congestion at several points. However, thousands of trees, including poplar, mulberry and some Chinar trees, were felled to make way for the widening and allied construction works. Though, authorities had earlier assured that the executing agency, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), would plant twice the number of trees felled during the project. However, their has been no plantation carried out so far, causing concern among the concerned citizens. Residents say the loss of such a large green cover could have long-term environmental consequences, particularly amid rising temperatures and increasingly erratic weather patterns in Kashmir. Environmentalists and residents say trees lining highways serve a far greater purpose than beautification. They absorb carbon dioxide, filter dust and pollutants, provide shade, help regulate surface temperatures and offer vital habitat for local biodiversity. The Srinagar-Baramulla highway once presented a beautiful picture, with trees lining both sides of the road. It provided shade and made the journey pleasant. Today, much of that green cover has disappeared, said Basharat Ahmad, an environmentalist from Baramulla district. He said the loss of trees was particularly concerning at a time when climate change was already altering local weather conditions. When temperatures are rising, cutting thousands of trees without restoring the green cover can only add to the environmental stress, he said. The issue has also been raised over the narrow median constructed at several stretches of the highway which puts a question mark on the development of tree plantation. Locals had hoped the central divider could be developed as a green belt, helping restore some of the lost vegetation. There seems to be no initiative to create green space in the middle of the road. The narrow divider indicates that environmental restoration was not given adequate consideration in the design, said Aijaz Ahmad, another resident from Baramulla town. For residents, the four-laning may improve mobility, but they say development should not come at the cost of the regions already shrinking green cover.

3 teenagers from Doda missing in Jammu, families appeal for public help

Ramban, Aug 10: Three teenagers from Doda district have been missing since August 1 after they were reportedly last seen together in the Jammu area, prompting their families to appeal to the general public for help in tracing them. The missing teenagers have been identified as Aqib Ali Danish (19), son of Mohammad Lateef, resident of Kahara Bitola, Thathri; Sameer Ahmed (17), son of Asif Muneer, resident of Kahara Trankhal, Thathri; and Saib Arfat (16), son of Yasir Arfat, resident of Kahara Trankhal, Thathri. According to the families, the three went missing at around 8 pm on August 1 from the Javed Nagar-Nikki Tawi area of Jammu. Despite efforts by their relatives and police, their whereabouts remain unknown. Family members said Saib Arfat had reportedly visited a barber shop in the Narwal area on August 1, where he used the barber's phone to contact the other two teenagers. The families said the three were subsequently seen together in CCTV footage outside a hotel in Jammu. After the teenagers failed to return home, their families approached the concerned police stations and reported them missing. Separate FIRs were registered on August 4 at Police Station Thathri in Doda district and Police Station Satwari in Jammu district. Following registration of the cases, police teams have initiated investigations and efforts are underway to trace the missing teenagers. Police are examining available CCTV footage and other leads to ascertain their whereabouts. The families have made an emotional appeal to the general public to share any information that could help locate the three teenagers and safely reunite them with their families. They have also urged anyone who may have seen them or possesses any relevant information to immediately inform the nearest police station or the concerned authorities.

ASI allocatesRs 22.72 crore for conservation of protected monuments inJ&K since 2023-24

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has allocated Rs 22.72 crore for the conservation, preservation and environmental development of protected monuments in Jammu and Kashmir over the last three financial years and the current fiscal, with Rs 20.13 crore utilised so far, according to information furnished by the Union Government in the Lok Sabha. The figures were provided by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on conservation of national cultural heritage under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, and the National Culture Fund (NCF). According to the reply, ASI undertakes conservation and maintenance of protected monuments annually based on their requirements and the availability of resources. Regular inspections are also carried out by ASI officers to assess the condition of monuments and monitor conservation and renovation works. The data show that J&K received an allocation of Rs 7.17 crore during 2023-24, which was fully utilised. In 2024-25, Rs 4.90 crore was allocated, of which Rs 4.89 crore was spent. The allocation increased to Rs 5.95 crore in 2025-26, with the entire amount utilised. For the current financial year, 2026-27, Rs 4.70 crore has been allocated to Jammu and Kashmir. Of this, Rs 2.12 crore had been utilised up to August 5. Separately, the Ministry has approved an NCF project worth Rs 1.21 crore during 2026-27 for the development of amenities at the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar. The project figures among NCF-supported works for conservation, renovation and development at ASI-protected monuments in Jammu and Kashmir. The government clarified that monuments and heritage sites are not protected under the National Culture Fund itself. Instead, the NCF provides financial assistance for conservation, renovation and development works at selected monuments and cultural heritage sites protected by the ASI. The Ministry said ASI also reviews visitor facilities, digital documentation, conservation activities and heritage promotion programmes at monuments under its jurisdiction. It added that ASI field offices organise community-oriented heritage programmes, including heritage walks, talks, drawing and painting competitions, photo exhibitions and consultations with local communities and stakeholders to promote awareness about heritage conservation. (KNO)

Probe to be ordered in Jammu accident case: Sakeena Itoo

Jammu, Aug 10:Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Monday stated that the government would order a probe into the cause of the mini-bus accident on August 9 night in Jammu, leaving around 34 persons, including over 25 girls, injured. Meanwhile, the Police on Monday arrested the driver, who had gone absconding after the accident and the owner of the vehicle. The matter needs to be investigated as to how the NGO which brought young girls, not students but pass-outs, for its programme without adequate arrangements. How was it allowed to accommodate 34 persons, including the young girls, almost double the capacity of the mini-bus? The government will order a probe to ascertain all these facts and cause behind the accident, which took place where there was no scope for it to occur, Sakeena Itoo told the media persons, following her visit to GMC Jammu to enquire about the well-being of injured girl students under treatment there. The accident, according to officials, occurred when around 35 persons, including over 25 girls, travelling in mini-bus, bearing registration number JK02BE-4479, were returning after attending a programme under Project Naari Veerangana of some BJP-affiliated NGO, in Jammu and the driver lost control over the wheels at flyover on Sunday night. The mini-bus was seized by Police after the accident, which was reported to be caused by negligent, rash driving besides overloading. On the directions of the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, I came here to ask about the well-being of 34 injured who were brought to GMC Jammu after an accident on Sunday night. Some surgeries were performed yesterday and this morning also some surgeries were being performed. There were some fracture cases also. But thankfully all the injured are stable, she said. Itoo during her visit took detailed stock of the health condition and treatment being provided to girls injured in road accident yesterday evening. She went around the hospital wards and interacted with the injured girls, enquiring about their well-being, medical treatment and facilities being extended to them. Itoo also interacted with the attending doctors and hospital authorities and sought a detailed briefing on the nature of injuries and the treatment plan being followed in each case. The Minister directed the GMC administration and medical teams to ensure the best possible treatment, round-the-clock monitoring and comprehensive medical care to all the injured. She stressed that all necessary medical resources should be mobilised to facilitate their speedy recovery. The health and well-being of every injured girl is our foremost concern. The government stands firmly with the affected families in this difficult time. Every possible facility will be made available to ensure their best possible treatment, the Minister said. She further directed the doctors and concerned officers to maintain continuous monitoring of the condition of critically injured patients and ensure timely intervention wherever required. There must be no lapse in patient care and every injured girl should receive prompt and quality treatment, with special attention to those in critical condition, she said. Itoo also asked the hospital authorities to ensure proper coordination among various departments and availability of medicines, diagnostics, surgical facilities and other requisite support for the injured. She expressed hope that all the injured girls would recover at the earliest and assured that the Health Department would extend all necessary support to the patients and their families. During the visit, the hospital administration apprised the Minister of the treatment arrangements and the medical condition of the injured, assuring that dedicated teams of doctors and paramedical staff were attending to them.

An example of interfaith harmony

Baramulla has a divine connect with Kashmir. It was here that Rishi Kashyapa, described by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Dasam Granth as an incarnation of Brahma and remembered for his authority on Vedas, drained the lake Sati Sar by cutting through the mountains near Khadniyar. One gets a majestic look of these mountains whilst entering Baramulla at the point of headquarters 19 Division. Founded in the year 2306 BC by Raja Bhimsina, Baramulla first got its name from Sanskrit words for Boars Molar (Varahamula) tied to Hindu myth of draining the primeval valley Lake. The European traveller William Moorcraft described Baramulla as a strategic placement on the Jhelum valley road. Historically Kashmir province of princely state had two districts, Baramulla and Anantnag. Subsequently districts Bandipore, Kupwara and also a part of Srinagar were derived from Baramulla. In the armed Kabalee Invasion of 1947, Baramulla and adjoining villages witnessed loot, arson, and killings and their properties were plundered. People from all faiths suffered heavily but it was the Sikh community that faced the major brunt. Thousands of Sikhs, including women and children were martyred but unfortunately their supreme sacrifice has been totally neglected by the governments since no memorial has been constructed to honour their martyrdom. With regards to the interfaith harmony and brotherhood, Baramulla exhibits the beseeming example. The district has been visited by many Deities, Sufi Saints and Sikh Gurus. Many Sikh Saints visited this place and preached Guru Nanaks Faith of Sikhism. Muslim Faith Muslims form the majority community in Baramulla and have always believed in peace, harmony and brotherhood. They have harmonious relationship with the people of other faiths. Some of the historical Muslim shrines in Baramulla district being, Ziarat Baba Rishi (Baba Payam-ud-Din Rishi), Shrine Janbaz Wali (Tomb of Sufi Saint Sayyid Muhammad Rufai from Isfahan Iran), Dargah Aaliya Khwaja Sahib (a prominent religious centre that houses holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Hindu Faith Hindus mostly Kashmiri Pandits, Khatris and Brahmans lived in Baramulla. Whereas, the Brahmans were settled in Uri sector, the Khatris lived in Baramulla and were mainly involved in trade. Pandits being scholarly elite though scattered in various villages had majority population in Baramulla town. They occupied high offices in the administration and also in the education sector. During the exodus in 1990, approximately 530 Pandit families migrated. Only a handful stayed back. Presently some Pandit families have returned under PM package and are staying in transit camps at Sheree and flood colony Khwaja Bagh. They have been welcomed by the majority community and interactions between different faiths have again started. Further dialogues for dignified return of Pandits are on. Some of the historical Hindu Shrines in Baramulla are, Shankara Gauri Shavara temple in Pattan, Vishnu temple Boniyar, Datta Mandir Uri, Maharani temple Gulmarg, Mata Shailputri temple, Shiva temple Kothi Teerath, Gangnour temple, Ram temple Gosain Teng, Huge Shiv Linga monolithic rock carved at Kanlibagh, Nandkeshwar temple Sopore. Sikh Faith Sikhs in the valley and particularly in Baramulla are linked to the Afghan rule, when Sukhjivanmal got Brahmans and Sikhs from Pakhli, Hazara, Frontier, and Pothohar, and the Sikh rule when many Brahmans embraced Sikh faith. The Sikhs of Baramulla have been a hardworking small community who have lived with dignity and honour. During the time of militancy, the Sikhs chose to stay back instead of migrating. Baramulla has been blessed with the visit of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. Mention of Guru Nanak Dev Ji having visited Gulmarg and adjoining areas has also been made in Mahan Kosh, the encyclopaedia of Sikh religion. Some of the historical Sikh Shrines in Baramulla are, Gurdwara Chevin Patshai Baramulla, Gurdwara Chevin Patshai Kalampura also called Thara Sahib, Gurdwara Chevin Patshai Paranpeelan and Dulanja Uri, Gurdwara Tapyana Sahib Shalkot, Gurdwara Sant Baba Natha Singh Didarpura and Gurdwara Shaheed Marg Satarna. Buddhist Faith Buddhism became dominant in Kashmir during the time of emperor Ashoka. Subsequently during the time of king Kanishka, the fourth international Buddhist conference was held near Harwan Srinagar. Buddhism spread to China Central Asia from Kashmir. Buddhist preacher revered Guru Padmasambhava also visited Kashmir. Various Buddhist sites found in Baramulla are at Zehanpora, Ushkur, Parihaspora and Kanispora. Christian Faith Baramulla at present has a minuscule population (53 in number) of Christian community. This community has played a very important role in the education and health sector. St Josephs school established in 1905 with the motto Manners Maketh Man has been the backbone of the education system in the district. Presently headed by father Brito, the school has undergone tremendous transformation with regards to infrastructure, green environment, sports facilities etc. St Josephs Hospital too has given a yeoman service to mankind. The hospital always gave and continues to give the confidence to the people that in case of a medical condition, they could count on this hospital. During the Kabalee raid of 1947, many sisters and nuns were martyred in the hospital. However, undeterred the community continues with this service. Two historical churches St Josephs Church at Baramulla and St Marys Church at Gulmarg are the revered places of Christian faith. In my view, presently Baramulla town is threatened with potholed roads/ ineffective traffic management and encroachment of natural nallas that could be a cause of major disaster during heavy rains/cloud bursts. Commodore DS Sodhi, Former Deputy Assistant Chief of Headquarters Integrated Staff (IT), Author and Social Activist.

A Scientific Roadmap

Kashmir is entering a new phase of tourism development. For decades, destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg have attracted visitors from across the country and abroad. Today, many lesser-known valleys, forests, alpine meadows, lakes, and mountain peaks are also being promoted as new tourist destinations. Improved roads, ropeway projects, eco-tourism initiatives, homestays, adventure tourism, and better public facilities are helping visitors explore these untouched areas. The Governments efforts to diversify tourism deserve appreciation, as they reduce pressure on traditional destinations while creating new livelihood opportunities for people living in remote areas. Tourism is one of the strongest pillars of Jammu and Kashmirs economy. It supports hotels, transport services, handicrafts, restaurants, local guides, farmers, pony owners, and thousands of small businesses. Programmes such as the promotion of homestays, rural tourism, eco-tourism, and the development of tourism infrastructure under schemes like Swadesh Darshan have created new opportunities for balanced regional growth. However, while expanding tourism is important, it is equally important to ensure that development does not weaken the natural environment on which tourism itself depends. Most of the newly emerging tourist destinations are not ordinary pieces of land waiting to be developed. They are fragile mountain ecosystems that provide much more than scenic beauty. These landscapes support forests, wildlife, grazing lands, medicinal plants, wetlands, and alpine vegetation. More importantly, they protect Kashmirs water resources, regulate the local climate, and reduce the risk of floods and soil erosion. Nature is the foundation Healthy forests and mountain slopes act as natural water reservoirs. Rainfall and melting snow slowly seep into the ground through forests and meadows, recharging springs, streams, and groundwater aquifers. These water sources supply drinking water to villages, support agriculture, and maintain river flows during dry months. As a hydrogeologist, one lesson repeatedly emerges from field studies: wherever natural recharge areas remain healthy, springs continue to flow and groundwater remains sustainable. But when forests are cleared, hills are cut indiscriminately, or construction spreads without planning, this natural balance begins to change. Rainwater flows rapidly downhill instead of entering the ground. Soil erosion increases, springs gradually lose discharge, and groundwater recharge declines. The effects may not become visible immediately, but over time they become difficult and expensive to reverse. Protecting groundwater recharge zones should therefore become a central part of tourism planning rather than an afterthought. Scientific planning should begin long before construction starts. Every major tourism project should be supported by environmental, geological, hydrogeological, biodiversity, and slope stability studies. Modern tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, drone surveys, and terrain mapping can identify environmentally sensitive areas, groundwater recharge zones, unstable slopes, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. This information helps planners avoid costly mistakes while protecting natural resources. Another important concept is the carrying capacity of a destination. Every mountain ecosystem has a limit to the number of tourists, vehicles, hotels, and commercial activities it can support without suffering environmental damage. Ignoring this limit leads to traffic congestion, water shortages, pollution, waste accumulation, and a decline in the quality of the tourist experience. Development also requires sound engineering practices. Hill cutting should be minimised, and unnecessary blasting should be avoided because it weakens fragile slopes. Proper retaining structures, bio-engineering techniques, slope stabilisation, and scientifically designed drainage systems should be incorporated into every project. Natural drainage channels should never be blocked, as they help safely carry rainwater and reduce the chances of erosion, landslides, and flash floods. Hotels, restaurants, and tourist facilities should also adopt environmentally responsible practices. Rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment plants, wastewater recycling, energy-efficient buildings, and scientific solid waste management should become standard features rather than optional measures. Building tourism that lasts Tourism development should not stop at building roads and hotels. It should also focus on protecting public health, maintaining hygiene, and reducing pollution. Clean surroundings are just as important as beautiful scenery. Visitors expect safe drinking water, clean public toilets, proper waste disposal, and hygienic food facilities. Unfortunately, many tourist destinations struggle with littering, overflowing dustbins, open dumping of waste, and inadequate sanitation during peak tourist seasons. The Government has already taken several positive steps, including promoting eco-tourism, home-stays, rural tourism, and better visitor facilities. National initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission and Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) also encourage cleanliness, responsible waste management, and environmentally friendly lifestyles. These initiatives can make a significant difference if they are effectively implemented at tourist destinations. Waste management should become an integral part of every tourism project. Separate bins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste, recycling facilities, composting of organic waste, and regular waste collection should be mandatory. Plastic bottles, disposable plates, and single-use plastic bags are becoming common sights in many scenic locations. If this trend continues, it will damage the very landscapes that attract visitors. Sewage management deserves equal attention. Hotels, restaurants, and guest houses should have properly designed sewage treatment systems before becoming operational. Untreated wastewater should never be allowed to enter streams, wetlands, or lakes, as it not only pollutes water bodies but also affects aquatic life and public health. Water quality should be monitored regularly, especially in popular tourist destinations where demand increases sharply during the tourist season. The increasing number of private vehicles contributes to air pollution, traffic congestion, and higher carbon emissions. Noise from traffic and tourist activities can disturb wildlife and reduce the peaceful environment that visitors seek. Wherever possible, authorities should encourage electric shuttle buses, cycling, walking trails, and designated parking areas outside environmentally sensitive locations. Such measures have been successfully adopted in several hill stations and can improve both environmental quality and the visitor experience. Learning from experience Other Himalayan states provide valuable lessons. Shimla, Manali, and Mussoorie have witnessed rapid tourism growth, but they also face recurring problems such as water shortages, traffic congestion, and increasing waste during peak seasons. These challenges show that tourism can outgrow the capacity of local infrastructure if planning does not keep pace with development. Similarly, the Kedarnath disaster and land subsidence in Joshimath highlighted the importance of respecting the fragile nature of Himalayan terrain. While these events had multiple causes, they reinforced an important message: development in mountain regions must be guided by scientific investigations and careful engineering. Tourism planning must therefore include climate-resilient infrastructure, improved drainage systems, protection of wetlands, and conservation of forests that naturally regulate water and climate. Way forward The future of tourism in Kashmir depends on finding the right balance between development and conservation. Every emerging tourist destination should have a comprehensive management plan that covers environmental protection, engineering safety, water security, sanitation, waste management, transport, disaster preparedness, and regular environmental monitoring. Local communities should remain at the centre of this process. Their knowledge of forests, springs, grazing lands, and local traditions can help make tourism both sustainable and inclusive. Promoting community-based tourism, homestays, local handicrafts, village tourism, and trained local guides ensures that economic benefits remain with local people while encouraging them to conserve their surroundings. Government departments, engineers, environmental scientists, hydrogeologists, forest officials, tourism planners, local bodies, and community representatives should work together from the planning stage itself. Development decisions based on scientific evidence are always more sustainable than those driven solely by short-term economic considerations. Kashmir has a unique opportunity to become a model for sustainable mountain tourism in India. Its forests, rivers, lakes, wetlands, alpine meadows, springs, and groundwater systems are not merely tourist attractions; they are natural assets that support biodiversity, agriculture, water security, and the livelihoods of thousands of families. The real success of tourism should not be measured only by the number of visitors, hotels, or roads constructed each year. It should be measured by whether future generations continue to enjoy clean rivers, healthy forests, flowing springs, rich biodiversity, and the breathtaking landscapes that have made Kashmir famous across the world. Development and conservation are not competing priorities. They complement each other. With scientific planning, responsible engineering, effective pollution control, better sanitation, active community participation, and strong environmental safeguards, Kashmir can expand its tourism sector without compromising its natural heritage. Protecting nature is not an obstacle to development, it is the foundation on which the future of tourism in Kashmir must be built. Pir Rayees Ahmad, Sr. Scientist (Hydrogeologist), Government of India, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Central Ground Water Board.

Bridging the Recognition Gap

Higher education stands on three pillars: merit, academic excellence, and equal opportunity. In an era where Indias higher education landscape has expanded significantly with private universities now educating a substantial share of the countrys postgraduate and doctoral students it is time to revisit an important policy question that touches the careers of thousands of young academics in Jammu & Kashmir. This is not an abstract or merely academic question. It shapes who gets shortlisted, how experience weightage is calculated, and ultimately, who is deemed fit to teach the next generation of students in government colleges and universities. The answer, this article argues, should rest on the quality and rigour of the institution and the work performed within it not on whether its ownership is public or private. The Changing Landscape Over the past decade, Indias higher education system has undergone a remarkable transformation. Many private universities are recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), and in several cases have earned national and international recognition through reputable ranking frameworks such as the QS World University Rankings and the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). These are not marginal or unregulated institutions. They operate under statutory Acts passed by state legislatures, are subject to periodic UGC inspection, and must meet minimum faculty qualification norms, student-teacher ratios, infrastructure benchmarks, and research output expectations identical in substance to those applied to public universities. Many maintain structured academic systems, conduct quality-assured research, follow outcome-based education frameworks, and recruit faculty through rigorous, transparent, and often UGC-compliant selection processes. In short, the regulatory scaffolding that governs private universities today is considerably more robust than it was a generation ago, when the public perception of private education in India was shaped largely by unregulated diploma mills. That perception, however outdated, appears to linger in recruitment practice long after the underlying reality has changed. If the degrees awarded by these universities are accepted as valid qualifications for employment and they routinely are, forming the very basis on which candidates qualify for teaching posts it raises a fundamental and somewhat uncomfortable question: why should the teaching experience acquired within those same institutions be viewed differently? The issue is not merely about employment opportunities for a handful of individuals. It is about maintaining logical consistency in public policy. A regulatory framework cannot coherently hold that a university is credible enough to certify a candidates degree, yet not credible enough to certify the professional experience that candidate accumulated while teaching there. When a degree obtained from a recognized private university is considered valid for recruitment, the teaching experience gained while working at that very institution should also receive due consideration provided, of course, that the institution fulfils the prescribed statutory requirements of recognition and accreditation. Put simply: an institutions legitimacy cannot be selectively applied accepted at the point of qualification and quietly withdrawn at the point of experience evaluation. The Departments Own Faculty Another interesting and somewhat revealing aspect deserves attention. A significant number of teachers currently serving in the Higher Education Department, whether on a permanent or contractual basis, have obtained their postgraduate or doctoral degrees from recognized private universities. This is not incidental; it reflects genuine institutional confidence in the academic standards of these universities, expressed through the departments own recruitment decisions. If academic qualifications earned at these institutions are acceptable indeed, are already embedded throughout the departments existing faculty profile then there is a strong and logically consistent argument that professional teaching experience acquired in the same institutions should also be evaluated on merit, rather than filtered out on the basis of the universitys ownership structure. What Should Actually Define Teaching Experience? Teaching is not defined by whether the employer is public or private; it is defined by classroom effectiveness, research productivity, curriculum development, student mentoring, academic innovation, and institutional contribution. A recruitment framework that genuinely wants to measure merit should assess these substantive markers rather than rely on a proxy as blunt as institutional ownership. Consider what a fair, merit-based evaluation of teaching experience would actually look for: Documented classroom teaching hours and subject-level responsibility, verifiable through institutional records. Research output peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and funded projects produced during the tenure. Contribution to curriculum design, outcome-based education planning, and academic committees. Supervision of student projects, dissertations, or postgraduate research. Participation in academic administration, accreditation exercises, or quality-assurance processes. None of these markers is intrinsically tied to whether the paycheque came from a state treasury or a private trust. A teacher who has spent five years building a strong publication record and mentoring postgraduate students at a NAAC-accredited private university has, by any reasonable standard, gained more substantive teaching experience than one who has spent an equivalent period in a less rigorous environment regardless of ownership. The Cost of the Status Quo Many young scholars begin their academic careers in private universities simply because permanent government vacancies are limited and recruitment cycles are slow and infrequent. During this formative period, they gain valuable classroom experience, publish research, supervise student projects, and participate in academic administration often under performance pressures that are, if anything, more demanding than those in some government institutions. If such experience is later discounted in government recruitment, the consequences extend well beyond individual disappointment. It discourages talented researchers from remaining in the states academic ecosystem, pushes ambitious young faculty toward institutions or states where their experience is valued more consistently, and creates an uneven playing field that has little to do with actual teaching ability. Over time, this can quietly erode the very merit-based culture that public recruitment policy is meant to protect. Addressing the Contractual Employment Concern There is also a broader issue concerning contractual employment that is often raised in this debate. While contractual faculty in government colleges frequently face legitimate concerns regarding remuneration and service conditions, several established private universities offer structured salary packages and service benefits aligned with prevailing UGC norms and institutional policies. The financial and structural precarity sometimes associated with contractual teaching is not a universal feature of private employment it varies by institution, just as it does within the government sector itself. This distinction matters because it undercuts a common assumption underlying current policy: that private-sector teaching experience is inherently less structured or less rigorous than government service. Where an institution meets statutory salary, benefit, and service-condition benchmarks, that assumption simply does not hold. What Equal Recognition Would Look Like None of this calls for lowering standards or extending blanket recognition to every institution regardless of quality. A workable policy would instead recognize teaching experience from private universities that meet clearly defined, verifiable benchmarks UGC recognition, NAAC or equivalent accreditation, and compliance with statutory faculty and infrastructure norms while continuing to exclude experience from institutions that fall short of these standards. This preserves rigour while removing the blanket disqualification that currently penalizes faculty at genuinely well-regulated institutions. Such a framework would also bring J&K HED recruitment policy in line with practices increasingly adopted elsewhere in the country, where accredited private university experience is weighted alongside government experience in faculty selection and promotion criteria. Conclusion The objective here is not to seek preferential treatment for private university faculty, nor to argue that all private institutions are equal to their government counterparts. It is to advocate for equal recognition of equivalent academic work performed in institutions that meet nationally prescribed quality standards. A policy that already trusts private universities to award valid degrees, and already employs their graduates throughout its own ranks, owes those same institutions and the faculty who built their academic reputation a consistent standard when it comes to recognizing teaching experience as well. Merit, after all, should be judged by what a teacher has actually done in the classroom and beyond it not by the letterhead on their appointment order. Dr. Mir Aaliya, Assistant Professor at CGC University, Mohali. Dr. Muneer Nabi, Assistant Professor at Karnavati University, Gujarat.

Mecca Pact, Implications for India

The security atmosphere and architecture of the new world order are changing fast. New alliances are being worked out, and the latest in the series is the Mecca pact, signed by Turkiye, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia in Riyadh on August 7. It is the clearest signal that the Gulf States have started realizing that there are limits to the US security umbrella that they had relied on for decades, believing that Washington would help secure them against the eventuality of an attack. They are looking for an alternate umbrella to find a sense of security that is a given. And some analysts in major world capitals have gone to the extent of seeing it as an emergence of Islamic NATO, implying that this is as strong as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in which the member states were committed to treating an attack on one as an attack on all. Whether or not this pact is the beginning of an Islamic NATO or simply a strategic partnership in intelligence-sharing and other cooperative measures, India will have to weigh its own security concerns, primarily because Pakistan always brings its anti-India agenda to all its security and strategic alliances. These may not necessarily be pure security concerns, but a call to assess the whole spectrum of the pact, its stated contours, and contents in very realistic terms. The rhetoric is one part of the strategy, but the core strategic responses demand an in-depth understanding of the complexities. India cannot shrug off these developments as if they were of no concern, or resort to the standard perception that it is closely watching these emerging trends. There has to be a definitive strategy, and that becomes an imperative when we look at the overall security environment in our immediate and distant neighbourhood, while it is a stark fact that this pact was not signed because of India or its strategic importance. Pakistan, however, is an exception to this rule because of its anti-India DNA, especially in its Army. Pakistan may say it explicitly or prefer strategic silence over its real intentions, but the fact remains that it always views India as an enemy. Following Operation Sindoor of May 2025, which India launched to avenge the Pahalgam massacre of 26 civilians on April 22, 2025, targeting the terror infrastructure across the border and the Line of Control (LoC) that separates Jammu and Kashmir from the Pakistan occupied territories, Islamabad has given a new and dangerous definition to Indias response to acts of terrorism. Pakistan has amplified its rhetoric on Jammu and Kashmir at international forums without ever acknowledging that its cross-border acts of terror were at the root of the crisis in the region. While nursing its wounds in the post four-day, high-intensity war triggered by the launch of Operation Sindoor, every move that Pakistan makes within the strategic and security alliances it fosters is driven by its underlying anti-India intentions. It is trying to gather all its military and. strategic resources to match up to the military power and strategic standing of India in the global affairs. This pact is one more attempt at doing so. Pakistans motivations are clear: it wants to strut on the global stage as an important nation that has the capacity to change situationsthe optics of it playing a role in the MoU between the US and Iran in recent months have served it well, though it is equally crucial that the very understanding has fallen by the wayside. It never ceases to boast that it is the only nuclear power among all the Islamic nations in the world. While this is true, Islamabad uses this power to blackmail nations and presents itself as a key factor in the security of the fellow Muslim countries. In the broader spectrum, India cannot afford to overlook the move and all the objectives involved in it for two reasons: First, India, as an emerging global power, cannot ignore developments that that have an impact on world affairsspecifically, the timing of the pact and the countries involved in it. Second, Pakistans presence in such agreements always has an impact on India. This is a reality that Indians know well. Not only India, but many commentators across the strategic world reflect on it in a similar way, believing that it will have repercussions for India. They express this through the euphemism that India will have to weigh its own defence structure. This signals that they are aware that Pakistans core interests are dominated by considerations of how it can deal with what it calls the Indian threat to the regional peace and stability. That, in fact, is inbuilt in Pakistans 24X7 thinking. Yet, this is not a simple story of Pakistan versus India; it is all about changing strategic thinking in the world in the wake of the US-Iran conflict, which has rattled the world and shaken many countries faith in the omnipresence and omnipotence of the United States of America that dominated the 20th century. This situation clearly reflects despair over the current state of American politics. American moral and political authority is in decay. The days of its successful diplomacy in the world, the defence of democracies, and the promotion of democracy are over. It now serves as a source of high polarization, as was evident in its conflict with Iran and its failure to defend the Gulf States from attacks by Tehran on their energy and defence assets. It has been a deeply frustrating experience for the Gulf States. Yet there is one big issue that should now attract more attention: the internal turmoil within Pakistan, spanning from Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Dozens of people have died in these places in recent weeks. Pakistan, as is its habit of putting all the blame for its own failures at Indias doorstep, will get emboldened to do so. Policy makers in Delhi must take cognizance of this fact. Footnote: Pakistan is very keen to save the Muslim brotherly countries from perceived or real attacks, why is it killing Muslims within its own borders, be it Baluchistan, KP, or now in the PoJK?

J&Ks Cultural Emergency

Jammu and Kashmir is passing through a cultural crisis that deserves far greater public and governmental attention. The irony is that the crisis is not caused by a lack of talent. This land continues to produce accomplished singers, musicians, composers, actors, filmmakers, theatre practitioners, writers and traditional artists, many of whom have dedicated their entire lives to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage. Yet today, a large number of genuine and deserving artists are struggling for basic opportunities and livelihood. For many, art is not a pastime but their profession, their identity and their only source of income. Unfortunately, the system appears to have little space for many of those who have actually spent decades serving the cultural landscape of J&K. The absence of a meaningful and comprehensive cultural policy has made matters worse. There is no properly structured annual cultural calendar that can provide regular opportunities to local artists, no effective mechanism for identifying and supporting young talent and no sustained programme for the preservation and promotion of our traditional music, folk forms, theatre and performing arts. Cultural activity cannot survive on occasional festivals and ceremonial functions. It requires continuity, planning, investment and, above all, people at the helm who genuinely understand the cultural traditions, history and artistic ecosystem of Jammu and Kashmir. Cultural institutions cannot be treated simply as administrative postings. They need leadership with cultural knowledge, sensitivity and a genuine understanding of the problems confronting artists. The situation of the local film industry is equally disappointing. Jammu and Kashmir has everything required to develop a vibrant regional film industry: extraordinary stories, locations, talented artists and technically capable young people. What is missing is a policy that creates a genuine ecosystem for local filmmakers, producers, actors, writers, musicians and technicians. A film policy that primarily facilitates outside productions but does not provide adequate space and incentives for local filmmakers cannot become the foundation of a sustainable regional industry. Local talent must not remain merely an extra workforce for productions coming from elsewhere; it must be empowered to create, produce and own its own stories. There is also growing concern within the artistic fraternity about government awards and recognitions. Such honours represent the acknowledgement of an artists lifetime of contribution and therefore cannot be based on influence, proximity or questionable recommendations. When deserving artists are ignored and recognition goes elsewhere, it does more than hurt individuals; it undermines public confidence in the entire system of cultural recognition. At the same time, institutions such as Doordarshan and All India Radio, which once played a historic role in nurturing local talent and preserving the regions musical and linguistic heritage, have steadily lost their earlier vitality. Their decline has deprived generations of artists of important platforms and has created a serious vacuum in the cultural ecosystem of J&K. What is most painful is the apparent absence of urgency among those responsible for cultural affairs. Behind every artist struggling for work is a family, a livelihood and years of dedication. Many artists who represented Jammu and Kashmir on national and international platforms are today battling uncertainty while their contribution is remembered only when their presence is required for an event. This cannot be the way a society treats those who preserve its collective memory. Jammu and Kashmir urgently needs a cultural revival based on a clear policy, transparent selection, regular opportunities, proper institutional leadership and sustained financial support. The government must initiate a meaningful dialogue with genuine representatives of the artistic community and formulate a comprehensive cultural policy, a yearly cultural calendar and a practical film policy that places local talent at its centre. Doordarshan and All India Radio must once again become vibrant platforms for J&Ks artists, while government awards must be made transparent and genuinely merit based.

Beyond the Yatra

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir stands at a critical juncture, one where the promise of a new beginning is increasingly overshadowed by the realities of a stalled present. Since the reorganisation of the state in 2019, the narrative has been dominated by high-voltage political symbolism, security narratives, and the eventual promise of restored statehood. However, beneath the surface of these grand political arcs, a quieter, more distressing reality is taking hold. The current administrative arrangement between the Lieutenant Governor and the political leadership is not working in harmony. This dissonance is not merely a bureaucratic friction; it is a governance crisis that is directly impacting the daily lives of the common citizen. The primary casualty of this administrative discord is the delivery of basic amenities. In any functional democracy, the provision of water, electricity, healthcare, and infrastructure is the non-negotiable baseline of governance. Yet, in many parts of J&K, these fundamentals remain elusive. When the administrative machinery is preoccupied with political positioning or ceremonial functions, the gritty, unglamorous work of governance suffers. The people of J&K are not asking for grandiose declarations; they are asking for functional hospitals, reliable power supply, and roads that do not wash away with the first monsoon rain. The current disconnect suggests that the administrative focus has drifted away from these essentials, leaving a vacuum where development should be. This vacuum is being filled by what can only be described as political show-off. There is a palpable sense that the current dispensation is more invested in curating an image of normalcy and progress than in delivering tangible outcomes. While photo opportunities and high-profile inaugurations make for good headlines, they do not fix leaking water pipes or staff understaffed primary health centers. This performative governance creates a facade of activity that masks the stagnation underneath. For the common citizen, the gap between the rhetoric of a New J&K and the reality on the ground is widening, breeding cynicism and eroding trust in public institutions. A particularly troubling aspect of this current arrangement is the apparent marginalization of elected representatives, specifically the BJP MLAs from the Jammu region. In a democracy, MLAs are the vital link between the government and the governed. They are tasked with articulating local grievances, steering development funds, and ensuring accountability. Yet, there is a growing perception that these elected officials have been rendered powerless, confined to the role of spectators rather than actors in the governance drama. The phrase confined to listening to Mann Ki Baat is a poignant, if stinging, critique of this reality. It suggests that the voice of the local electorate is being bypassed in favor of a top-down, centralized narrative. When elected representatives are silenced or sidelined, the democratic fabric of the region weakens, and the specific needs of constituencies go unaddressed. This centralization of power is further exacerbated by the misallocation of administrative energy. There is a legitimate concern that the Man with Authority and Funds is currently preoccupied with arrangements for the Yatra and the Drug-Free J&K campaign. While these are undoubtedly noble and necessary causes, they cannot come at the expense of core administrative duties. The fight against drugs is a critical social battle, but it is fundamentally the work of a politically elected leadership that is accountable to the people, not solely the domain of a nominee administrator. Similarly, while facilitating pilgrimage is important, it should not consume the bandwidth required for systemic governance. When the administrative focus shifts toward symbolic victories and specific social campaigns to the exclusion of broad-based development, the result is a skewed priority list. The budget of a Union Territory is a public trust, allocated for both Capital and Revenue work. It is meant to build infrastructure, pay salaries, maintain law and order, and foster economic growth. This budget should not be held hostage to political maneuvering or the wait for statehood. The argument that development must wait until statehood is restored is a dangerous fallacy. Governance is a continuous process, not an event that begins only after a political milestone is achieved. To hold the basic development of a region ransom to the timeline of statehood is to punish the people for political delays that are beyond their control. The power play currently observed in J&K is detrimental to the regions long-term stability. When authority is concentrated in the hands of an unelected administrator while elected representatives are left on the sidelines, it creates a democratic deficit. This arrangement may offer short-term administrative control, but it fails to build the long-term political consensus necessary for lasting peace and prosperity. The people of Jammu and Kashmir, whether in the Valley or the Jammu region, deserve a government that is both effective and accountable. They deserve a system where the LG and the political leadership work in concert, not in conflict, to deliver results. Furthermore, the fading of good work done by the Government of India is a tragic irony. Significant efforts have been made to integrate J&K more closely with the national mainstream, to root out corruption, and to improve security. Yet, these gains are being eroded by the perception of an unresponsive administration. When the local populace feels that their voices are not heard, and that their MLAs are powerless, the goodwill generated by central initiatives dissipates. Development cannot be imposed from the top down; it must be cultivated through local engagement and democratic participation. It is time for a course correction. The administration must pivot from symbolic politics to substantive governance. This requires empowering elected representatives, ensuring that the BJP MLAs in Jammu and representatives from other regions have a real say in the development of their constituencies. It requires a relentless focus on the basics: water, power, health, and education. The budget must be utilized with precision and urgency for capital and revenue works that directly impact the quality of life. The fight against drugs and the facilitation of pilgrimages should be part of a broader, holistic governance strategy, not substitutes for it. Jammu and Kashmir cannot afford to wait. The people have waited long enough for peace, for normalcy, and for development. Holding their progress hostage to the politics of statehood or the whims of administrative power plays is unjust. The Union Territory status was meant to be a bridge to better governance, not a cul-de-sac of administrative inertia. It is imperative that the Man with Authority remembers that authority is granted to serve, not to showcase. The true measure of success in J&K will not be the scale of the Yatras or the rhetoric of drug-free campaigns alone, but the reliability of the electricity grid, the quality of the schools, and the responsiveness of the government to its people. Let us not allow the promise of a New J&K to fade into the background noise of political posturing. The time for harmony between the LG and the political leadership is now. The time for empowering elected representatives is now. The time for delivering basic amenities is now. J&Ks future depends not on the perfection of its political status, but on the functionality of its governance. It is time to put the people back at the center of the agenda, where they belong. With mutual respect, clearly defined responsibilities and development kept above political differences, the present arrangement can deliver meaningful results. Jammu & Kashmir deserves responsive governance, balanced development and lasting peace. Cooperation today can help build a stronger, more prosperous future for all. Lt Gen R. S. Reen is a former DGQA

A prospect not to be wasted

As new technological inputs revolutionise agriculture, more and more people are now gravitating towards seriously taking up agriculture as core economic activity. The way horticulture is shaping up in a valley like Kashmir, and the way youth now turn towards professional agricultural activities, it is moment of satisfaction, yet studded with grave concerns. The element of satisfaction engenders from the fact that our young graduates and post graduates, even the ones who have enjoyed professional exposure outside the country, have finally decided to be a part of a tech based revolution in horticulture. Not just that there are allied activities that these people are taking up and if right kind of approach is ensured, these activities will turn into decent economic enterprises generating employment for dozens of others. What is also satisfying is that these youngsters have the capability to understand national and international markets and create a niche for themselves in those market spaces. If that happens, Kashmir can expand its economic base considerably achieving social stability, deep and wide. However, there are concerns and these concerns are genuine. If, God forbid, this newfound economic space doesnt unfold the way it is contemplated, and hoped, it can bring in loads of disappointment. The consequences of that disappointment would be too scary. To safeguard our society from that frightful scenario, it is incumbent on agricultural scientists to come forward and put in their share of intellectual and experiential knowledge. On part of financial institutions it is important that money flows in at lower interest rates and easier return schemes. Here, the element of insurance is very crucial. If there is no substantial insurance cover, weather vagaries can overnight devastate a thriving agricultural unit. On part of government it is crucial to ensure that all elements, research, welfare, financial and administration, work in close coordination to ensure that tech-agri alliance becomes a real game changer. The moment is here, and we cannot afford to squander it

Special Court acquits duo in NDPS case

Srinagar, Aug 10: A court here has acquitted two persons in a case registered against them under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in Budgam in 2022. The Special Judge (NDPS Cases) Srinagar, Vinod Kumar, acquitted Shahnawaz Qadir Ganie, and Muhammad Ayoub Sofi of Hyderpora after holding that the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the alleged contraband was recovered from their conscious and exclusive possession. The court acquitted the duo of offences under sections 8/20, 21 and 29 of the NDPS Act. According to the prosecution, the case (FIR No 207/2022) was registered at Police Station Budgam after police recovered 65 grams of charas, 15 bottles containing codeine-based medicinal preparation and Rs 1.39 lakh in cash during a search of a house at Hyderpora. Subsequently, the prosecution relied upon an FSL report which detected charas in the sampled substance and Codeine Phosphate and Chlorpheniramine Maleate in the sampled liquid. In its decision, the court noted the serious discrepancies concerning the alleged recovery and possession of the contraband. The Executive Magistrate who supervised the search had stated during cross-examination the contraband was recovered from the house and not from the accused, and that he could not say why the two persons were booked in the case. This directly contradicted the prosecution version regarding possession, the court said. Moreover, the court observed that the house was occupied by several family members and that one of the accused did not reside there. The alleged contraband, it said, was also found at different locations within the room rather than in the direct possession of the accused, making it difficult to draw an inference of exclusive conscious possession. The court also pointed to discrepancies regarding the weighing of the alleged charas. Witnesses gave different accounts about the place where the substance was weighed, the weighing instrument used and the circumstances of the weighment. These, the court said, were not merely peripheral variations but concerned material aspects of the alleged recovery. Consequently, the court extended the benefit of doubt to both accused and acquitted them of the charges. Advocates Mir Urfi, Waheed Dar, Zia-ul-Rehan, Anil Raina, Aqib Farooq, and Bushra represented the accused.

2 former executive engineers among 10 chargesheeted in Kupwara bridge case

Srinagar, Aug 10: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Jammu and Kashmir, on Monday presented a charge-sheet against 10 accused, including nine public servants and a private contractor, in a case involving alleged misappropriation of government store material, fraudulent release of security deposit, forgery and abuse of official position in connection with the construction of the Lastiyal-Kalaroose bridge in Kupwara. The accused include former Executive Engineers Muhammad Sultan Sheikh and Ajit Singh Chopra, besides other officials of the Public Works (Roads and Buildings) Department, Kupwara division, and contractor Ghulam Mohiuddin Lone. According to the ACB, the case originated from an open verification conducted by the erstwhile Vigilance Organisation Kashmir into allegations of loss to the state exchequer allegedly caused by the contractor in connivance with officials of the PWD (R&B) Division, Kupwara. The investigation found that the bridge work was allotted to Lone in September 2010 with a stipulated completion period of three months. The contractor allegedly commenced the work after considerable delay, completed only part of the project and subsequently abandoned it. The ACB said government store material, including cement and steel, remained unaccounted for or unrecovered. The value of the material was assessed at around Rs 5.63 lakh. The investigation also found that the contractors cash deposit receipt (CDR) of Rs 73,000 was allegedly released and encashed fraudulently on the basis of a forged communication purportedly issued by the competent departmental authority. In addition, bill deposits amounting to Rs 81,400 were allegedly released despite outstanding government liabilities, the ACB said. According to the agency, lapses by engineering and accounts officials in safeguarding government material, enforcing contractual conditions and recovering government dues, allegedly in connivance with the contractor, resulted in a total loss of Rs 7,12,150 to the state exchequer. The charge-sheet was filed after obtaining the requisite sanction for prosecution against the serving public servants. The ACB said the case is supported by oral, documentary, scientific, and other evidence collected during the investigation. The accused charge-sheeted are Abdul Majeed Malik, then Helper and Assistant Cashier; Ghulam Rasool Lone, then Cashier and Senior Assistant; Muhammad Sultan Sheikh, then Executive Engineer; Ajit Singh Chopra, then Executive Engineer; Nazir Ahmad Shah, then Assistant Executive Engineer; Abdul Rashid Dar, then Assistant Executive Engineer; Manzoor Ahmad Sumji, then Junior Engineer; Ghulam Qadir Bhat, then Assistant Accounts Officer; Abdul Hamid Dar, then Assistant Accounts Officer; and contractor Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Lone. All 10 accused were produced before the Special Judge, Anti-Corruption, Baramulla, on Monday along with the chargesheet. The court granted them bail upon furnishing bail and surety bonds as directed. The court has fixed November 25, 2026, as the next date of hearing. The charges are allegations at this stage, and the accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of law.

J&K forest cover rises by 224 sq km in 4 years: Centre

Srinagar, Aug 10:Jammu and Kashmirs forest cover rose by 224.39 sq km between 2019 and 2023 to 21,346.39 sq km, the Centre told the Lok Sabha on Monday. Forest Survey of India data showed the cover at 21,122 sq km in 2019. It rose to 21,346.39 sq km in the 2023 India State of Forest Report. Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh gave the figures in response to a question on funds sanctioned and utilised for afforestation. J&K received Rs 10.99 crore under the Green India Mission between 2021-22 and 2025-26. National CAMPA approved Rs 28.54 crore for compensatory afforestation during the same period, the ministry said. It said J&K also received Rs 15.09 crore under the Nagar Van Yojana between 2020-21 and 2025-26. The ministry said it provides financial assistance to states and Union territories under the Green India Mission, CAMPA, MISHTI, and Nagar Van Yojana for afforestation, reforestation, ecological restoration, and forest conservation. It does not maintain a centralised database on the survival rate of saplings planted under forest conservation and tree plantation programmes, it said. Survival depends on factors including species selection, site and climatic conditions, rainfall, soil moisture, protection from biotic interference and post-plantation maintenance, the ministry said. It said implementing agencies and respective forest departments monitor plantations under the guidelines of the concerned schemes. Nationally, forest cover increased by 3,093.14 sq. km between 2019 and 2023, from 7,12,249.47 sq km to 7,15,342.61 sq km. It accounts for 21.76 percent of Indias geographical area. The ministry said 652 Nagar Van Yojana projects were approved nationwide between 2020-21 and 2025-26. They cover 19,348.591 hectares and have an approved cost of Rs 699.33 crore. Rs 564.39 crore has been released. The ministry also highlighted 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' (Plant for Mother) plantation campaign, that was launched on World Environment Day in 2024. It continued this year with participation from government departments and other stakeholders to increase green cover, it said.

CIK arrests 2 suspects for social media propaganda

Srinagar, Aug 10:Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) has arrested two persons in connection with an investigation into the dissemination of radical and anti-national content through social media platforms, two days after the agency conducted searches at five locations across Kashmir. The arrests were made on Sunday, August 9, following searches conducted by CIK on Saturday, August 8, in connection with FIR No 03/2023 registered at Police Station CIK Srinagar. The case has been registered under Sections 505 and 153-A of the Indian Penal Code and Sections 13 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. During the searches, investigators seized six digital devices and seven SIM cards, which have been taken up for detailed examination as part of the ongoing probe. The two arrested persons have been identified as Mehran Qazi, son of Atta Muhammad Qazi of Hiller Shahbad, Dooru, Anantnag, and Babar Hamid Dar, son of Abdul Hamid Dar of Chankan, Sopore. According to officials familiar with the investigation, the case relates to the alleged use of social media platforms for disseminating material carrying radical and anti-national overtones. Investigators have alleged that the two suspects shared content containing radical narratives, besides material involving the glorification and projection of individuals associated with terrorism. The content allegedly also included extremist viewpoints and narratives that could influence or radicalise impressionable minds. The CIK searches at five locations formed part of the ongoing investigation into the case, with the agency examining digital footprints and other material to establish the nature and extent of the alleged online activity. The seizure of multiple digital devices and SIM cards is expected to help investigators examine communications, social media activity and other digital evidence relevant to the case. Officials said the digital material seized during the searches is being subjected to detailed examination in accordance with law. Investigators are also examining whether the alleged dissemination of the content was limited to the two arrested persons or involved a wider network. The latest arrests come amid increased scrutiny by security and intelligence agencies of online platforms being allegedly used for the propagation of extremist narratives and radicalisation in J&K The investigation remains in progress, and further arrests or legal action, if warranted, would depend on the findings emerging from the examination of the seized material.

J&K on alert, unprecedented security grid in place ahead of Aug 15

Srinagar, Aug 10:Unprecedented multi-layered security arrangements have been put in place in the twin capitals of Srinagar and Jammu ahead of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15. The heightened measures have been particularly intensified around the venues of the main Independence Day functions, with security agencies carrying out extensive anti-sabotage checks, area domination exercises, surveillance and frisking operations to prevent any attempt to disrupt the celebrations. In Srinagar, where Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is scheduled to unfurl the national flag at Bakshi Stadium, security forces have substantially strengthened the security grid around the stadium and adjoining areas. The Jammu administration is also undertaking elaborate security arrangements for the main Independence Day function in the winter capital, where the Deputy Chief Minister is scheduled to participate in the celebrations. Officials said the security apparatus has been placed on high alert across all districts following intelligence inputs indicating that terrorists could attempt to target vulnerable locations or disrupt public events around Independence Day. Security forces have increased the deployment of personnel at strategic locations, major roads, entry and exit points, markets, transport hubs and other sensitive installations. Mobile checkpoints, or nakas, have been established at multiple locations, with personnel conducting intensive checking of vehicles and frisking individuals. The security grid has also been strengthened along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, particularly at vulnerable stretches and important junctions, besides roads leading towards the twin capitals. In Srinagar, security agencies have undertaken detailed sanitisation and anti-sabotage measures around Bakshi Stadium and other important locations associated with the August 15 celebrations. Security personnel are also maintaining a close watch on movement in areas surrounding the venue. Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), bomb disposal squads, and anti-sabotage teams have been kept on standby to respond to any emergency. Security agencies are also conducting searches and surveillance in areas considered vulnerable from the security point of view. Aerial surveillance has been enhanced, with drones being deployed to monitor important routes, public spaces and sensitive areas. CCTV surveillance has also been expanded and strengthened at strategic locations, while existing camera networks are being closely monitored. K9 squads have been deployed for explosive detection and sanitisation of venues and other important installations. Security agencies are also conducting repeated checks of public places and areas around the venues to rule out any possible threat. Night patrolling and area domination exercises have been intensified across the Valley and Jammu region by the J&K Police, Army, Central Armed Police Forces, and Border Security Force. The security arrangements come against the backdrop of recent terror incidents in south Kashmir. Officials said special attention was being paid to south Kashmir districts, border areas and suspected infiltration routes along the Line of Control and the International Border. Security forces have increased surveillance in vulnerable areas to prevent any movement of terrorists or their associates. The agencies are simultaneously pursuing terrorists and their support networks linked to recent incidents while maintaining security for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and preparing for Independence Day events. Security agencies have also increased surveillance of suspicious movements and are maintaining coordination among different forces deployed across J&K. The objective, officials said, is to ensure that there is no security breach during the celebrations and that people can participate in Independence Day functions without fear. The arrangements are expected to remain in force for several days, with security forces maintaining a heightened posture before, during and immediately after the August 15 functions. Authorities have appealed to the public to cooperate with security personnel during checking and frisking and to remain vigilant. People have been advised to immediately inform the police or nearest security post about any suspicious person, vehicle, object, or activity. With the main Independence Day functions scheduled in Srinagar and Jammu, the security establishment has activated a comprehensive security grid involving multiple agencies, surveillance systems, ground deployment, and rapid-response mechanisms. The focus, officials said, is on preventing any attempt by terrorists to exploit the heightened public movement around Independence Day, while ensuring the smooth conduct of celebrations across J&K.