Jammu & kashmir

Democrat Senators ask Trump not to extend sanction waiver on Russian oil

WASHINGTON: Two Democratic Senators have urged President Donald Trump against granting any further exemption from US sanctions on the purchase of Russian oil, contending that there is no rationale for such a move, as the war with Iran is now over. In a statement here on Tuesday, Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Elizabeth Warren said the []

Union MoS Ajay Tamta reviews J&K highway projects

Highlights 12-year infrastructure overhaul JAMMU: Union Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways Ajay Tamta concluded a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, with an extensive inspection of key national highway projects, followed by a high-level review meeting at the Jammu Convention Centre on Monday. During his visit, MoS Tamtatraveled the entire []

Govt committed to preservation of Kashmirs houseboat heritage: Rana

MLAs raise constituency specific concerns SRINAGAR: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana on Tuesday said that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed towards protecting and preserving the treasured houseboat heritage of Kashmir. He made these remarks during a meeting with the All Kashmir []

Public outreach integral part of transparent governance: Itoo

JAMMU: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Tuesday met several public delegations and individuals at Civil Secretariat here and listened to a wide range of public issues and developmental concerns raised by them. The delegations, representing different areas and sections of society, apprised the Minister of matters pertaining []

Director Census Operations cautions public against cyber criminals

Amit Sharma chairs Census review meet at Kupwara KUPWARA: Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director Census Operations (DCO) for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Amit Sharma, along with Principal Census Officer and Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse, held a review meeting at the DC Office Complex to assess the progress of Census 2027 []

SANJY: DC Sgr visits Yatra Transit Camp Panthachowk

Finalizes arrangements for smooth conduct of upcoming Yatra SRINAGAR: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Tuesday undertook a site visit of Yatra Transit Camp (YTC) at Panthachowk to oversee the arrangements being put in place for the Yatries expected to participate in upcoming annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra (SANJY-2026) set to begin in July. During []

Speaker visits accident site in Brenwar, assesses road situation

Assures in-depth investigation of incident, road upgradation BUDGAM: Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather on Tuesday visited Neegoo Brenwar, Chadoora, the site of a recent fatal accident, to assess the situation and extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. During the visit, the Speaker met the bereaved families and conveyed his sympathies, []

IUST crosses 113 patents as Bharat Innovates 2026 begins

AWANTIPORA: As the nation celebrates Bharat Innovates 2026 at Nice, France, IUST has crossed the significant milestone of 113 patents, reflecting the Universitys growing culture of innovation, creativity, and translational research. Bharat Innovates 2026 aims to showcase Indias innovation and deep-tech capabilities to the world by connecting Indian startups, and global partners to accelerate technology []

Beggar-free Srinagar: Admin intensifies SMILE drive

700 individuals rescued, over 1,500 identified Admin, SWD, police collab to curb begging Srinagar, Jun 16: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has intensified its drive to curb begging practice under the central governments Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) scheme, aimed at making Srinagar beggar-free through rehabilitation and livelihood support measures. Under the initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment,the district administration of Srinagar,Social Welfare Department and Police have jointlystarted the effective implementation ofthe scheme to ensure a dignified livelihood for beggars. In this regard,vehicles have been deployed tomake announcements throughout the markets, streets and residential areas regarding the begging practices. One such vehicle was seen moving around Lal Chowk today while making announcements. As per the announcement, the people have been asked not to endorse begging practices by giving alms and also report such practices to the concerned authorities for immediate action. An official told Rising Kashmir that the scheme launched by the central government aims to make the whole of India beggar-free, with theslogan Biksha Vritti Mukt Bharat has been rolled out in Srinagar as well by roping insocial welfare, police, and administration to effectively implement the scheme. Under this scheme, we havebeen able to rescuenearly 700 such individuals and identified more than1500 throughoutSrinagar district, who were involved in begging practice in the last twoyears,he said. After being rescued, the individuals are being imparted training and skills through the livelihood schemes to make them able to earn a dignified livelihood, the official said, adding that the efforts are on to make Srinagar a beggar-free district, but at this juncture, the society needs to support and help to identify such individuals to ensure the dignified livelihood for beggars. The SMILE scheme provides counselling, shelter, food, holistic rehabilitation, medical care, education, skill development and sustainable livelihood opportunities for individuals engaged in begging. The umbrella scheme is divided into two major sub-schemes tailored to specific communities, including the Central Sector Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Welfare of Transgender Persons and the Central Sector Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Beggars. The initiative aligns with the objectives of the Central Sector Sub Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Beggars, which focuses on conducting area-specific surveys and rescue operations in identified locations, particularly historical, tourist and pilgrimage destinations. Under the scheme, individuals engaged in begging are identified and shifted to shelter homes where they are provided care and support services. The programme also emphasises rehabilitation through counselling, education and skill development, enabling rescued individuals to transition towards sustainable livelihoods, entrepreneurship and dignified employment opportunities. In addition, the scheme encourages the formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) among beneficiaries and facilitates their linkage with government-backed micro-credit and financial inclusion programmes to support long-term economic independence. The scheme was introduced in August 2024 and implemented through the national-level organisation Prayas Juvenile Aid Centre.

e-UNNAT emerges backbone of J&K's digital governance

Handles over 8.46 mn citizen applications; nearly 7.48 mn already processed Srinagar, Jun 16: Jammu and Kashmir has achieved a major feat under the flagship e-governance platform, Unified, Integrated, Accessible and Transparent (e-UNNAT), by processing more than 7.47 million citizen applications while offering 1,548 online services across departments. According to the latest data accessed by Rising Kashmir, J&K has received over 8.46 million applications since its launch, of which nearly 7.48 million have already been processed. Around 9.84 lakh applications are currently under process, reflecting the growing reliance of citizens on digital service delivery. The Union Territory has expanded its digital footprint by increasing online services from around 60 to 1,546 in three years. These services are seamlessly integrated with national platforms such as DigiLocker, UMANG, Meri Pehchaan, Mobile Dost, payment gateways, and the Rapid Assessment System, ensuring transparency, speed and ease of access. Thefigures underscore the rapid expansion of Jammu and Kashmir's digital governance ecosystem, with e-UNNAT emerging as a single-window platform for accessing a wide range of government services. The portal was launched to provide seamless, transparent and time-bound delivery of public services while reducing the need for physical visits to government offices. Data on certificate delivery also highlights significant progress under the Public Services Guarantee Act (PSGA). As per the dashboard, 27.39 lakh certificates were delivered within the prescribed timelines, while 2.25 lakh were delivered within seven days beyond the PSGA limit. Another 1.58 lakh certificates were issued within 15 days after the deadline, whereas 8.31 lakh certificates were delivered beyond 15 days of the stipulated period. According to the officials, the platform has transformed citizen-government interaction by integrating services from multiple departments under a single digital interface. Jammu and Kashmir has consistently expanded the number of services available online through the e-UNNAT portal as part of the broader Digital J&K initiative. The latest statistics indicate continued growth in digital adoption and reflect the administration's push towards transparent, accountable and technology-driven governance in the Union Territory.

NEET (UG) re-exam: Telegram blocked in India till Jun 22

Message editing disabled till Jun 30 Re-examination on Jun 21 NTA welcomes Centres action Srinagar, Jun 16: The Central government has ordered a temporary block on Telegram in India till June 22 and directed the platform to disable its message editing feature for existing posts till June 30, following recommendations made by the National Testing Agency (NTA) ahead of the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination scheduled on June 21. The move has also led to the Telegram app being removed from the Google Play Store in India, adding to the restrictions imposed ahead of the examination. In a statement issued on Monday, the NTA welcomed the action, saying the measures are calibrated and bounded in time and aimed at ensuring the safe and secure conduct of the examination. According to the agency, a direction issued under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, restricts access to the Telegram platform in India for a defined and limited period ending June 22, 2026. The restriction covers the day of the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination and its immediate aftermath. The NTA further said Telegram has been directed to disable, in India, the message editing feature for messages already posted until June 30, 2026. The agency alleged that the feature had been used to fabricate after-the-event paper leak evidence related to national examinations. The direction addresses the specific structural feature through which the platform has been used to fabricate after the event 'paper leak' evidence in respect of national examinations, the statement said. The NTA said both measures have been taken in the interest of public order and in response to the organised use of the platform by cheating rackets seeking to defraud candidates appearing in the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination. The examination is scheduled to be held on June 21, 2026. The NTA also expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology for what it described as timely action, saying the restrictions would help ensure a safe and secure examination process for students across the country.

Omar lays foundation for two Srinagar STPs

Rs 26.54 crore project to improve wastewater treatment, prevent pollution Srinagar, Jun 16: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday laid the foundation stones for two major sewerage infrastructure projects in Srinagar worth Rs 26.54 crore, aimed at strengthening wastewater treatment facilities and improving urban sanitation in the city. The projects include the augmentation and upgradation of the 17.08 MLD capacity Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Brarinambal, Srinagar, at a cost of Rs 12 crore, and the construction of a 2.5 MLD capacity STP along with laying of 3.95 kilometres of sewer lines at Chattabal, Srinagar, at an estimated cost of Rs 14.54 crore. Both projects are being executed under the Capex Programme by the Urban Environmental Engineering Department (UEED), Kashmir, under the Housing & Urban Development Department. The Chief Minister said that strengthening urban infrastructure, particularly sewerage and wastewater treatment systems, remains a key priority of the government to ensure sustainable development and improved quality of life for citizens. He emphasized that the projects would significantly enhance sewage treatment capacity, improve environmental conditions, and contribute towards the conservation of water bodies in and around Srinagar. The Brarinambal project will upgrade the existing sewage treatment infrastructure to improve efficiency and cater to the growing wastewater management requirements of the city. The Chattabal project, comprising a new STP and an extensive sewer network, is expected to provide improved sanitation facilities to the area and help prevent the discharge of untreated wastewater into water channels. The foundation stone laying ceremonies were attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs Shamim Firdous, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Tanvir Sadiq, and Salman Ali Sagar, Commissioner Secretary Housing & Urban Development Department Mandeep Kaur, senior officers of the department, and local residents. The projects are expected to play a significant role in enhancing Srinagars urban infrastructure and promoting environmentally sustainable wastewater management practices.

CM pushes for well-planned housing, parks, schools in Sgr

Reviews satellite township, housing, master plan at SDA meet Srinagar, Jun 16: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired the 84th meeting of the Board of Directors of the Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) at the Civil Secretariat, reviewing the implementation status of decisions taken in the previous Board meeting and considering issues relating to urban infrastructure development, housing, organizational reforms, land management, and progress in execution of various projects. The Board reviewed the status of major urban development projects being undertaken by SDA, including the proposed Satellite Township at Rakhi Gund Aksha, Bemina, development of commercial assets, housing projects, and other infrastructure initiatives aimed at improving urban facilities in Srinagar. Referring to the proposed Satellite Township at Rakhi Gund Aksha and other upcoming housing projects, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of creating well-planned, aesthetically appealing, and livable urban spaces. He stressed that housing development should incorporate adequate civic and social infrastructure, including schools, parks, playgrounds, shopping facilities, and other essential amenities, while ensuring quality landscaping and attractive surroundings that enhance the overall urban environment. The Chief Minister exhorted SDA to focus on large-scale housing projects to address the housing needs of Srinagar city and also improve parking facilities in busy areas of Srinagar. The board underlined the need for planned development of Batmaloo area and making Sangarmal Shopping Centre fully functional. The board also gave directions to develop vacant land parcels near Sangarmal by taking up key projects at the site. The Board discussed measures for strengthening institutional capacity of the Authority, formulation of recruitment rules, implementation of welfare measures for employees, and steps for improving planning and development activities. The proposal relating to revision and implementation of Srinagar Master Plan, preparation of zonal development plans, management of commercial assets, development of public infrastructure, and budget estimates of the Authority were reviewed during the meeting. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for transparent, efficient, and sustainable urban development, directing that all projects be implemented in a time-bound manner while ensuring adherence to planning norms and public interest. He stressed the importance of strengthening institutional mechanisms and improving delivery of civic and urban services to meet the growing needs of the city. The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretaries Anil Kumar Singh and Shailendra Kumar, Commissioner Secretary Housing & Urban Development Mandeep Kaur, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Vice Chairman SDA Shabir Hussain Bhat, and other senior officers. Vice Chairman SDA presented the agenda items before the Board.

Drugs in Teens Part 3 : Scorpio, 420, Weed: How Kashmir's drug peddlers speak in code

PROBLEM Srinagar emerging as drug peddling hub Vulnerable teenagers becoming consumers & carriers SOLUTION Early intervention, school-based counselling systems Schools, parents must understand drug language, digital culture Srinagar, Jun 16: Scorpio, Ice, Gold Star, Weed and 420 may sound like harmless slang or teenage jargon to many parents, but a new research study has revealed that these coded words are increasingly becoming part of Kashmirs underground drug culture, silently connecting peddlers with school-going children and young addicts across the Valley. The alarming findingshave surfaced in a detailed study conducted by Dr Sameena Wani, presently Principal of Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Kothibagh, Srinagar and submitted to DIET Srinagar, whichexamines the growing causes and manifestations of drug abuse among school children in Jammu and Kashmir. According to the study, drug dealers and users are increasingly relying on coded street names to conceal conversations related to narcotics from families, teachers and law enforcement agencies. Experts believe this evolving drug vocabulary has made the menace more difficult to identify, particularly among teenagers who communicate freely through social media platforms, online chats and peer networks. The report warns that the Valleys drug ecosystem is no longer operating in secrecy aloneit is slowly blending into youth culture through slang, coded expressions and online communication patterns that often escape parental scrutiny. Researchers cited in the study note that drugs are being marketed and discussed among teenagers using terms that sound casual and harmless. The strategy, according to experts, not only protects peddlers from detection but also normalises drug culture among adolescents. The study further reveals that the age of substance abuse in Kashmir is dropping at an alarming rate, with children as young as 10 to 13 years reportedly getting introduced to cannabis, inhalants and other narcotics through peer groups and neighbourhood networks. Mental health experts quoted in the report attribute the growing addiction crisis to a mix of peer pressure, emotional distress, unemployment, broken family relationships, conflict-related trauma and increasing exposure to social media and internet culture. The findings also indicate that many teenagers initially experiment with substances out of curiosity or under pressure from friends before gradually slipping into addiction. In several cases, local grocery shops, acquaintances and informal street networks reportedly become the first points of access to narcotics, the study reads. It paints a disturbing picture of changing drug patterns in Kashmir. While cannabis and medicinal opioids earlier dominated the addiction landscape, heroin, brown sugar, synthetic substances and inhalants are now rapidly spreading among youth populations. Experts cited in the research warn that Srinagar city is increasingly emerging as a hub of drug peddling, where vulnerable teenagers are not only becoming consumers but, in some cases, also turning into carriers and small-time suppliers within their own peer circles. Dr Wani, through her research, has strongly advocated for early intervention, school-based counselling systems and awareness programmes to counter the menace before it consumes another generation of Kashmirs youth. The study stresses that schools, parents and communities must understand the new language, behaviour patterns and digital culture surrounding narcotics if they are to effectively identify vulnerable students and stop the spread of addiction. The report concludes with a stark warning that Kashmirs battle against drugs can no longer remain limited to police crackdowns alone, as the menace is now infiltrating language, culture, friendships and the everyday lives of adolescents across the Valley.

84th SDA Board meet: CM Omar reviews urban infra, housing, land management projects

Planned dev of Batmaloo; Sangarmal Shopping Centre to be made fully functional Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired the 84th meeting of the Board of Directors of the Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) here at the Civil Secretariat. The meeting reviewed the implementation status of decisions taken in the previous Board meeting and considered []

CM lays foundation stones for two major sewerage infra projects in Sgr

Projects worth over 26.5 crore to strengthen wastewater management, improve urban sanitation Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday laid the foundation stones for two major sewerage infrastructure projects in Srinagar aimed at strengthening wastewater treatment facilities and improving urban sanitation in the city. The projects include the augmentation and upgradation of the 17.08 MLD []

CM meets legislators, reviews issues, dev needs

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday met several public representatives at the Civil Secretariat here and listened to their concerns, suggestions and issues requiring government attention. The Chief Minister met Legislators Iftikhar Ahmad (Rajouri), Rafiq Ahmad Naik (Tral), Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi (Pampore), Javed Reyaz Bedar (Pattan), Khursheed Ahmad Sheikh (Langate), Arjun Singh Raju []

India follows humanity first approach: PM Modi to G7 leaders

World should move from donor-recipient to partnerships based on solidarity, equality Evian-les-Bains: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday told the G7 leaders that the world should move from donor-recipient to partnerships based on solidarity and equality. Speaking at the Outreach Session on Forging new Partnerships and rebuilding international solidarity here, Modi also underscored the importance []

Health Ministry amends Drugs Rules, 1945

Over-the-counter sale of syrups discontinued to curb misuse Doctors prescription now mandatory for purchase of all syrups Srinagar: In a significant move aimed at strengthening drug regulation and promoting the rational use of medicines, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has notified an amendment to the Drugs Rules, 1945, making it mandatory for []

ED summons nine hoteliers under PMLA in land transaction irregularities probe

Grand Mumtaz & Radisson owner Mushtaq Chaya among those summoned Bank accounts, assets, rev records, lease deeds, Roshni Act applications sought Srinagar: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned nine prominent Gulmarg hoteliers, including Grand Mumtaz and Radisson Group owner Mushtaq Ahmad Ganai alias Chaya, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in connection with []

Parl panel flags continuing exam irregularities

Seeks roadmap for reforms New Delhi: A parliamentary committee has expressed concern over continuing examination irregularities despite measures taken by the government, and recommended that the Ministry of Education publish a time-bound roadmap for implementing reforms suggested by a high-level committee. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports, headed by Rajya []

Kashmir to Host Rise in J&K 2026 Exhibition from Today

Srinagar, June 16: Srinagar will host a three-day national exhibition and public outreach initiative, Rise in Jammu & Kashmir 2026 Building the Path Towards Viksit Bharat @ 2047, from June 17 to 19 at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC). Announcing the event at a press conference on Monday, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Ghulam Ali Khatana said the exhibition is aimed at highlighting Indias developmental progress and Jammu and Kashmirs growing role in the countrys vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Organised by Tarmeh Events under the guidance of Khatana, the exhibition will bring together public sector enterprises, scientific institutions, government departments and development agencies on a common platform. Khatana said the initiative seeks to connect citizensparticularly youth, students, entrepreneurs, researchers and professionalswith institutions driving development across sectors including infrastructure, science and technology, healthcare, agriculture, education, energy, environment and public service delivery. He said the exhibition will also create awareness about flagship government programmes, technological advancements and innovation while encouraging public participation in nation-building. According to the organisers, the event will feature thematic pavilions, technology demonstrations, interactive displays, awareness campaigns and opportunities for direct engagement between institutions and visitors. Several organisations, including NHPC, BIS, ICMR, ISRO, CSIR, ICAR, APEDA, Northern Railway, IRCTC, POWERGRID, NTPC, REC, TRIFED, NAFED and other public sector and research bodies, are expected to participate. The organisers said the event is expected to attract students, entrepreneurs, policymakers and members of the public from across Jammu and Kashmir.

4 soldiers injured in accidental landmine blast in Rajouri

Rajouri/Jammu: Four Army personnel, including a junior commissioned officer, were injured in an explosion near the Line of Control in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, officials said. The blast was caused by accidental activation of a landmine during area domination patrol by Army personnel in forward Kalal area of Nowshera sector, the []

CS calls for accelerating efforts towards making TB-Free J&K

Srinagar: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo on Tuesday chaired a comprehensive review meeting of the ongoing Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan to assess the progress achieved across the Union Territory and chart out a strategy for accelerating efforts towards tuberculosis elimination. The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Health & Medical Education (H&ME); Mission Director, []

Statehood Demand Should Unite J&K Parties : Hakeem Yaseen

Srinagar, June 16: PDF President and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Tuesday said that all political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, including the ruling party planning to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar for restoration of statehood, should first introspect and adopt a united approach instead of pursuing separate political agendas. Hakeem questioned the need for separate protests when Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and raised the issue of statehood. He said the restoration of statehood has already been publicly promised by Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the floor of Parliament. Every party is demanding statehood, but each is following its own path. Why cant all political parties come together and form a joint political front for Jammu and Kashmir, similar to the collective approach adopted by Ladakh to safeguard its interests? Hakeem said. Referring to Ladakhs political mobilisation around constitutional safeguards under Article 371, Hakeem said Ladakh, despite having a much smaller population, has managed to secure stronger protections and bargaining power than Jammu and Kashmir. He said the present situation in Jammu and Kashmir is not the result of one party alone. BJP is not the only party responsible. Other political parties that ruled Jammu and Kashmir from 1953 onwards also bear responsibility for the gradual erosion of our constitutional and political rights, he said. Hakeem added that from the dismissal of popular governments in 1953, the weakening of the Prime Minister and Sadr-i-Riyasat institutions, to the continued erosion of Article 370, the damage to Jammu and Kashmir happened over decades due to vested political interests.

Bukhari Expresses Concern Over Detentions Across Valley

Welcomes Political, Social Activists from Tral into Party Srinagar, June 16: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday voiced deep concern over what he described as the ongoing pakad-dhakad in various areas across the Valley. He said that since Jammu and Kashmir has been experiencing sustained peace and normalcy for a considerable period, there is no justification for such random arrests. He also reiterated his long-standing demand for amnesty for detainees, saying that justice must prevail and that those who have been behind bars for many years should be given an opportunity to live a normal life with their families. The Apni Party chief made these remarks on Tuesday while addressing a party event at the party headquarters in Srinagar. The event was organised to extend a warm welcome to dozens of political and social activists from South Kashmirs Tral area into the Apni Party fold. These new entrants, including both men and women, were previously affiliated with parties such as the NC, PDP, and Congress. Bukhari and other senior party leaders warmly welcomed the new members during the event. Addressing the occasion, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari strongly reiterated his demand for the release of detainees. I have consistently conveyed to the administration and the government, including the Prime Minister and the Home Minister that it is imperative to consider granting them amnesty. I say this because I firmly believe that these prisoners deserve to be pardoned. he said. He further added, Except for those involved in heinous crimes, all detainees must be released. Even those accused of serious crimes deserve a fair trial so that they can be punished in accordance with the law of the land, and not beyond it. he said. Referring to the Apni Partys vision, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, Before the 2024 Assembly elections, we had promised that, if we came to power, we would announce an amnesty for prisoners. We had proposed setting 31 October 2024 as the cut-off date for such an initiative. We would have released detainees upon their oath to shun their earlier path and remain loyal to the country and the nation. However, we did not receive the mandate. Emphasising that the issues and challenges facing the people of Jammu and Kashmir can only be resolved within the framework of the country and not through any external force, he said, We are citizens of this country. Since 1947, our destiny has been tied to it. Therefore, the redressal of our problems and issues will come from this country, not from Islamabad, Washington, London, or any other place. We may have grievances and demands, but they can and should be addressed by our own country, not by anyone else. The prominent among the new entrants included Mohammad Shahban, Molvi Imtiyaz, Nazir Ahmad Gojar, Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, Suhail Ahmad, Ishtiyaq Ahmad, Abdullah Gojar, Jumma Gojar and others. They joined the Apni Party along with their teams and associates.

Gurezi Chairs Estimates Committee Meeting

Srinagar, June, 16: A meeting of the Committee on Estimates of the Legislative Assembly was held on Tuesday at the Assembly Secretariat under the Chairmanship of MLA, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi). Legislators Ghulam Ahmad Mir, Balwant Singh Mankotia, AIi Mohammad Dar, Javid Hassan Baig, Mushtaq Guroo, Irshad Rasool Kar, Sajad Shaheen, Sunil Bhardwaj, besides Secretary JKLA Manoj Kumar Pandit, DG Budget Mohd Sultan Malik and other senior officers of the Legislative Assembly were present in the meeting. While addressing the introductory meeting, the Chairman briefed the members about the core mandate and vital importance of the Committee. He emphasized that the panel's primary role includes the meticulous examination of original and revised estimates, as well as tracking the actual expenditure incurred on various developmental projects across the region to ensure accountability and fiscal discipline. To streamline its oversight function, the Committee decided to call a meeting with the senior officers of the Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department in its next session. The upcoming meeting will specifically examine the current status, funding, and progress of all languishing and ongoing developmental projects under the department's purview. During the meeting, the participating members offered valuable suggestions aimed at maximizing the Committee's efficiency. They assured the Chairman of their full cooperation and support in ensuring the smooth and impactful functioning of the Committee.

Public Outreach Key to Transparent Governance: Sakeena Itoo

Meets public delegations, individuals at Jammu Reaffirms Govts commitment to responsive Governance Jammu, June 16: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today met several public delegations and individuals at Civil Secretariat here and listened to a wide range of public issues and developmental concerns raised by them. The delegations, representing different areas and sections of society, apprised the Minister of matters pertaining to healthcare services, education, social welfare initiatives, civic amenities and local infrastructure. Individual citizens also projected issues requiring timely administrative intervention and sought appropriate redressal. Giving a patient hearing to all the representations, the Minister assured the visiting delegations and individuals that their genuine concerns would be examined on priority and taken up with the concerned departments for necessary action. Public outreach remains an integral part of transparent and accountable governance as sustained engagement with citizens helps in identifying and addressing grassroots issues effectively, Sakeena Itoo stated. The Minister reiterated the Governments commitment to ensuring equitable development, efficient public service delivery and welfare-oriented governance across Jammu and Kashmir She stressed that coordinated efforts among departments are being encouraged to resolve public grievances in a prompt and effective manner. The Minister also urged the officers concerned to maintain close coordination with stakeholders and ensure that developmental initiatives and welfare schemes reach the intended beneficiaries in a timely and transparent manner.

Govt Committed to Preserving Kashmirs Houseboats: Javed Rana

MLAs raise constituency specific concerns Srinagar, June 16: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Tuesday said that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed towards protecting and preserving the treasured houseboat heritage of Kashmir. He made these remarks during a meeting with the All Kashmir Houseboat Owners Association (AKHBOA) held at Civil Secretariat Srinagar. The meeting was also attended by MLA Zadibal constituency, Tanveer Sadiq. Rana said that the houseboat remains a symbol of the Valley's cultural identity and a vital pillar of its tourism economy and every effort will be made for the welfare of the communities dependent on it. The delegation, led by Chairman AKHBOA, Manzoor Ahmad Pakhtoon, apprised the Minister of various issues concerning the houseboat sector, particularly the requirement of timber for repair, renovation and maintenance of these heritage structures. The representatives underscored that houseboats constitute a unique heritage asset of Jammu and Kashmir and play a significant role in sustaining tourism and providing livelihood to hundreds of families. They requested enhancement of the existing timber quota to meet maintenance requirements while seeking an easier process of timber procurement. Responding to the issues raised by the delegation, the Minister assured that the concerns raised would be examined sympathetically for appropriate consideration. He said the government remains committed to safeguard the region's heritage assets while ensuring the welfare of communities dependent on them. The delegation expressed gratitude to the Minister for his positive response to their long-pending demands. Legislators Ranbir Singh Pathania and Mir Saifullah also called on the Minister and apprised him of various development and public welfare issues pertaining to their respective constituencies. The Minister assured them that their concerns would be looked into and addressed in a time bound manner.

CM Omar Meets Legislators, Reviews Constituency Issues

Srinagar, June, 16: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday met several public representatives at the Civil Secretariat here and listened to their concerns, suggestions and issues requiring government attention. The Chief Minister met Legislators Iftikhar Ahmad (Rajouri), Rafiq Ahmad Naik (Tral), Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi (Pampore), Javed Reyaz Bedar (Pattan), Khursheed Ahmad Sheikh (Langate), Arjun Singh Raju (Ramban) and Ghulam Ahmad Mir (Dooru), who apprised him of various developmental needs, public welfare issues and constituency-specific matters. The Chief Minister gave a patient hearing to the public representatives and assured them that the issues and concerns raised would be examined and addressed in a time-bound manner.

Navjot Singh Sidhu visits Kashmir with family

Meets Abdullahs and Karan Singh Srinagar, June 16: Former Indian cricketer, television personality and politician Navjot Singh Sidhu is currently on a family vacation in Kashmir, sharing glimpses of his visit through a series of posts on social media that celebrate the valleys beauty, hospitality and political leadership. During his stay in Srinagar, Sidhu called on Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at his residence. Sharing a photograph from the meeting, Sidhu described Abdullah as the torch bearer of the great Sheikh Abdullahs legacy. The shining example of what a fearless and credible modern-day politician should be. The valley whispers peace and the mountains echo progress under his leadership, Sidhu wrote on his social media accounts. The former Punjab minister also met National Conference president and former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, thanking him for facilitating the familys trip to Kashmir. Calling Abdullah a colossus of Indian politics, Sidhu wrote, He has the courage to speak truthfully and is a genuinely secular voice of the people of Kashmir. Sidhu also met veteran statesman Karan Singh during his visit. Posting a video of the interaction, he referred to Karan Singh as the Grand Old Man of Indian Politics. Apart from political engagements, Sidhu and his family explored some of Kashmirs iconic attractions. Sharing visuals from blueberry and plum orchards overlooking the famed Dal Lake, he captioned the post: Walking the talk in the blueberry and plum orchards overlooking the Dal Lake. The former cricketer also posted photographs of his daughter, Rabiaa Sidhu, enjoying the scenic beauty of the valley. Our heart and soul, sunshine of our lives, pride of our family... my adorable princess, he wrote alongside one of the pictures. In another post featuring a family photograph taken in Srinagar, Sidhu reflected on the memorable moments spent together, writing, Good times to remember, memories to cherish and treasure. Capturing the essence of his Kashmir visit, Sidhu described the valley as paradise on earth, stating, God created Paradise and named it Kashmir - Jannat-e-Duniya. Earlier, upon arriving in the valley, Sidhu had posted, Mountains calling... family time, signalling the beginning of what appears to be a leisurely family holiday amid Kashmirs picturesque landscapes. His posts, highlighting both personal moments and meetings with prominent political leaders, have drawn attention from followers across the country, showcasing Kashmirs natural beauty and the growing influx of tourists to the region.

DPRs Underway for 3,500 Cr Amarnath Road Project

Union MoS Ajay Tamta reviews J&K highway projects Four-hour JammuSrinagar travel target as major highway works progress Jammu, June 16: Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta concluded his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday after reviewing progress on key National Highway projects and chairing a high-level meeting in Jammu. During the review, officials informed that detailed project reports (DPRs) are being prepared for around 60 km of road works worth 3,500 crore aimed at strengthening infrastructure for the Amarnath Yatra and boosting tourism in the region. It was informed in the meeting that Pilgrimage and tourism infrastructure has also received attention. The 880-crore Katra Intermodal Station will integrate rail, road and heli-services for devotees visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. Additionally, 54 ropeway proposals worth 30,000 crore have been received, with eight projects worth 16,000 crore to be taken up in the first phase at sites including Shri Amarnath Ji Cave, Shankaracharya Temple, Thajiwas Glacier, Bhadarwah, Sanasar and Doodhpathri. During the visit, the MoS travelled the entire SrinagarJammu section of NH-44, inspecting the QazigundBanihal and ChenaniNashri tunnels, the landslide-prone RambanBanihal stretch and the ongoing Srinagar and Jammu Ring Road projects being executed by NHAI. He also assessed the ChenaniSudhmahadev stretch and the proposed SudhmahadevDranga tunnel alignment under NHIDCL. Senior officials from NHAI, NHIDCL, BRO, PWD and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways briefed the minister on ongoing and upcoming projects across Jammu and Kashmir. Highlighting infrastructure expansion in the region, Tamta said highway development has accelerated over the past decade, with works worth nearly 1.35 lakh crore taken up. According to officials, projects worth 20,000 crore have been completed, while works worth 50,000 crore remain under construction and DPRs are being prepared for another 65,000 crore. Officials said the 16,000-crore JammuUdhampurSrinagar four-lane corridor has achieved 95 per cent progress and is expected to reduce travel time between Jammu and Srinagar from nearly nine hours to around four hours upon completion. The review also covered four high-speed corridors worth 50,000 crore and urban mobility projects including the Srinagar and Jammu Ring Roads, aimed at improving connectivity, tourism access and economic movement across the region. Tamta directed implementing agencies to adhere to timelines while maintaining quality and safety standards, stating that improved connectivity would strengthen tourism, pilgrimage, trade and overall socio-economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pension Reforms Expand Reach in J&K After UT Transition: Jitendra Singh

Inaugurates 59th Pre-Retirement Counselling Workshop DoPPW, J&K Bank sign MoU to expand pension-related services Srinagar, June, 16:- Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh on Tuesday said that the governance and pension reforms initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 12 years are reaching a wider section of employees and pensioners in Jammu & Kashmir following the transition of the erstwhile State into a Union Territory. Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the reorganisation of Jammu & Kashmir led to a significant increase in the number of Central Government employees in the region, bringing with it certain initial workload and service-delivery challenges. These challenges, he said, have been progressively resolved through coordinated efforts of the Government and associated institutions, enabling employees and pensioners across the Union Territory to derive the benefits of the pension reforms introduced during the last ten years. Dr. Jitendra Singh made a special mention of the role played by the Jammu & Kashmir Central Pensioners Associations, saying they have emerged as valuable partners in this transition. He said the Associations have not only extended full cooperation but have consistently brought issues to the notice of the Government along with practical suggestions for their resolution. Their constructive engagement, he said, has helped facilitate the transition of erstwhile State employees into the Central Government framework and contributed to the effective implementation of pension reforms across Jammu & Kashmir. The Minister said that as a result, pensioners and employees in Jammu & Kashmir are now increasingly benefiting from a series of citizen-centric initiatives launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting the wider reach of pension reforms that have transformed the pension administration landscape across the country over the last decade. Addressing the 59th Pre-Retirement Counselling (PRC) Workshop and 13th Bankers Awareness Programme organised by the Department of Pension & Pensioners Welfare (DoPPW) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Srinagar, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the Government has fundamentally changed the approach towards pensioners by placing their welfare, dignity and ease of living at the centre of policy making. On the occasion, the Department of Pension & Pensioners Welfare and Jammu & Kashmir Bank launched a collaborative initiative aimed at expanding pension-related services and improving accessibility for pensioners across the Union Territory. Dr. Jitendra Singh said the Bhavishya platform has brought about a major change in pension administration by enabling end-to-end digitisation of pension processing. Pension Payment Orders are now integrated with DigiLocker, ensuring seamless, paperless and transparent access to pension documents for retirees. Referring to one of the most successful reforms introduced under Prime Minister Narendra Modis governance agenda, the Minister said the introduction of Digital Life Certificates through Face Authentication Technology has transformed the lives of pensioners by allowing them to submit life certificates from their homes using mobile phones. He said the initiative has significantly enhanced ease of living for senior citizens and reduced their dependence on physical visits to banks and offices. Dr. Jitendra Singh said the Government has also strengthened grievance redressal through CPENGRAMS, thematic review mechanisms and National Pension Adalats, enabling faster resolution of pension-related grievances. The Minister said that the Government has consistently worked to preserve institutional memory and encourage continued engagement of retiring employees through the Anubhav platform. He said retiring employees are encouraged to share their experiences, innovations and best practices, creating a valuable repository of knowledge for future generations of public servants. He also welcomed the launch of the Anubhav Scheme 2026, aimed at recognising exemplary contributions made by retiring government employees. Calling upon retiring employees to remain active participants in Indias development journey, Dr. Jitendra Singh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly emphasised that every citizen has a role in the making of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. Senior citizens and pensioners, with their vast experience and wisdom, have an equally important role in this national mission, he added.

Doctors Protest Over Six-Month Stipend Delay

Srinagar, June 16: Postgraduate (PG), DNB and Diploma doctors in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday raised serious concerns over the non-payment of stipends for the past six months despite continuing to provide essential healthcare services in government hospitals. Doctors posted at District Hospital Pulwama and Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Shopian alleged that they have not received their stipends during this period, causing significant financial hardship and affecting their day-to-day lives. A group of doctors at District Hospital Pulwama held a peaceful protest on Tuesday, demanding the immediate release of their long-pending dues. The protesting doctors said they have continued to discharge their duties round the clock while facing mounting financial stress due to the delay in payments. We have been suffering because of the prolonged delay in the release of our stipends, which is our rightful entitlement. Despite working tirelessly for patients, our concerns have remained unaddressed, said a doctor at District Hospital Pulwama, requesting anonymity. The doctors said the delay has created difficulties in managing rent, transportation expenses and other essential financial commitments. They appealed to the authorities to intervene and resolve the issue at the earliest. Meanwhile, prominent health activist Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan also expressed concern over the situation and urged the government to address the issue without further delay. Postgraduate, DNB and Diploma doctors continue to serve patients day and night, yet many have not received their stipends for the last six months. These young doctors form the backbone of healthcare services in many hospitals, and such delays are unacceptable, Dr. Khan said. He urged the Chief Minister, Health Minister and the concerned authorities to immediately release the pending stipends and ensure that doctors are not forced to struggle for their rightful dues while serving the public. Dr. Khan emphasized that timely payment of stipends is essential for maintaining the morale and motivation of young doctors and for ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir. He warned that prolonged delays could adversely affect the functioning of healthcare institutions and called for a mechanism to ensure timely disbursement of stipends in the future. The protesting doctors expressed hope that the government would take swift action and resolve the issue to prevent further hardship to healthcare professionals dedicated to serving patients across the Union Territory.

Kheer Bhawani Reflects Kashmirs Composite Culture: Karan Singh

Tulmulla, June 16: Former Sadr-e-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir and senior Congress leader Dr. Karan Singh on Tuesday said that the revered Kheer Bhawani shrine at Tulmulla Ganderbal continues to symbolize Kashmir's rich spiritual heritage and centuries-old tradition of communal harmony, while expressing hope for peace across the world and welcoming the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley. After paying obeisance at the shrine ahead of the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, Dr. Singh expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made for devotees. He appreciated the efforts of the shrine management and the administration in ensuring a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage for worshippers visiting the temple. Speaking to reporters, Dr. Singh said that Kheer Bhawani and the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra are among the most significant religious pilgrimages in Jammu and Kashmir. He recalled his own visit to the holy Amarnath cave in 1953, highlighting how the pilgrimage has grown over the decades from attracting a few thousand devotees to lakhs of pilgrims every year. He described the spiritual connection between the Kheer Bhawani shrine and the Amarnath Yatra, noting that many pilgrims visit both revered shrines during their stay in Kashmir. Mata Kheer Bhawani and Lord Shiva represent an important spiritual bond, making these pilgrimages deeply significant for devotees, he said. Dr. Singh also emphasized the importance of praying for peace at a time when conflicts and instability in different parts of the world continue to create uncertainty. He said that while India remains on a positive path, global tensions have implications for everyone and therefore prayers for peace and harmony are essential. We pray to the Goddess for peace in the world. The developments taking place internationally are concerning and affect all of us in one way or another. We hope the situation improves and peace prevails, he said.

Preparations Underway for Annual Kheer Bhawani Mela

Ganderbal, June 16: Preparations are underway at the revered Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla, Ganderbal, ahead of the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela scheduled to be held on June 22. Although the festival is still days away, devotees from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir and outside the Union Territory have already started visiting the shrine to offer prayers and witness the arrangements being made for the annual pilgrimage. Authorities have intensified preparations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for pilgrims expected to arrive in large numbers for the mela. Security arrangements are being strengthened in and around the shrine premises, with deployment plans being finalized to maintain law and order during the festival. Officials said that special focus is being given to essential facilities for devotees. Temporary tents are being erected to accommodate pilgrims, while arrangements for free community kitchens (langars) will also being made by various religious and social organizations. In addition, efforts are underway to ensure adequate drinking water supply, uninterrupted electricity, sanitation facilities, medical assistance and proper cleanliness within the shrine complex. Healthcare teams and emergency services are also expected to remain available during the festival period. During a visit to the shrine, several devotees expressed satisfaction over the ongoing preparations. Many described the temple as one of the most sacred religious sites for Kashmiri Pandits and appreciated the peaceful atmosphere at Tulmulla. Vivek Sharma, a devotee visiting the shrine, said the arrangements appeared satisfactory and that the atmosphere was welcoming. Other visitors from Jammu and Delhi also lauded the facilities being put in place and said they felt spiritually connected to the historic shrine. The Kheer Bhawani Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, holds immense religious significance for Kashmiri Pandits. Every year, thousands of devotees visit the shrine to participate in the annual mela and seek blessings. While the main festival will be observed on June 22, the shrine is already witnessing a steady flow of devotees. The increasing number of visitors has added to the activity at Tulmulla, where preparations continue in full swing to receive pilgrims from across the country. With security measures being strengthened and basic facilities being readied, authorities and shrine management are working to ensure the smooth conduct of one of Kashmir's most important religious gatherings.

'Kashmir Is Our Home': Pandits Hope to Return

Tulmulla, June 16: Amid the spiritual atmosphere at the revered Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla, several Kashmiri Pandit families visiting the shrine voiced a strong desire to return permanently to their homeland, saying Kashmir remains an inseparable part of their identity and memories. Speaking to Rising Kashmir during their visit to the temple, members of the Kashmiri Pandit community said they long to live once again in the Valley alongside their Muslim neighbours, just as they did for generations before migration forced many families to leave their homes decades ago. Kashmir is our birthplace. We have countless memories attached to this land and we want to come back and live here, said a member of a visiting Pandit family. Whenever we visit Kashmir, whether during the Kheer Bhawani Mela or on other occasions, we receive a warm welcome from our Muslim brothers and neighbours. Their affection and hospitality make us feel at home. Several devotees said that every visit to the Valley revives memories of their childhood, ancestral homes, and the bonds they once shared with local communities. They described Kashmir not merely as a place of residence but as their homeland, where their roots and cultural heritage remain deeply embedded. A Kashmiri Pandit woman expressed happiness over the gradual return of some families to the Valley after decades. It is encouraging to see Kashmiri Pandits returning to their homeland. The government is taking positive steps and we hope more families will be able to come back and rebuild their lives here, she said. Another woman devotee stressed the need for lasting peace in Kashmir, saying that peace would pave the way for the return of more displaced families. We do not want to remain away from Kashmir. We want to return and live here permanently. My son also loves Kashmir and wishes to spend more time in the Valley. We miss this place immensely, she said, adding that Kashmir continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Pandits living outside the Valley. The devotees highlighted the centuries-old tradition of communal harmony in Kashmir and expressed hope that the spirit of coexistence between communities would continue to grow stronger. They said they wish to live with their Muslim neighbours in the same atmosphere of mutual respect, friendship, and brotherhood that once characterised Kashmiri society. Their remarks come at a time when several Kashmiri Pandit families have returned to the Valley after nearly 36 years, rekindling hopes of reconnecting with their ancestral roots. Many said these visits have strengthened their emotional bond with Kashmir and reinforced their desire to return permanently if conditions continue to improve. The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, one of the most significant religious gatherings of the Kashmiri Pandit community, has long served as a symbol of faith, cultural identity, and the enduring connection of displaced families with their homeland. This year too, devotees from different parts of the country have been arriving at Tulmulla to offer prayers and reconnect with their roots.

Routine Cognizance, Routine Death

Another life lost to a preventable crash in Poonch exposes the Valleys dangerous roads, weak enforcement, and official apathy Blood on our roads has become so routine that a fresh tragedy barely stirs the administration. On Tuesday morning, at Dhana Dohian Sathara in Poonch, a motorcycle skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge. One man lost his life. Two others were critically injured and rushed to the District Hospital in Poonch. All three are from Islamabad, Poonch. Police have taken cognizance, and further details are awaited. We have heard this line too many times. The question is not what happened or which motorcycle was involved. The question is why our hilly roads remain death traps year after year. Steep curves without crash barriers, narrow stretches without proper shoulders, broken surfaces, poor signage, and almost non-existent speedcalming measures together turn every commute into a gamble. When such roads meet overloading, rash driving, and lax enforcement, the outcome is tragically predictable: bodies in gorges and headlines of grief. Behind every accident report stands a familiar pattern of official neglect. How many dangerous spots at Dhana Dohian Sathara or elsewhere in Poonch have been flagged by the concerned authorities? How many technical audits of these stretches have been carried out and made public? Where are the crash barriers and reflective warning signs that should be mandatory on such terrain? Announcements of road projects are aplenty, but a basic culture of road safety is missing. It is time authorities stop hiding behind routine FIRs and ritual press notes. The administration must order an immediate safety audit of vulnerable stretches in Poonch and other hilly districts, fix responsibility on engineers and contractors where design or maintenance lapses are found, and prioritise installation of guardrails, signage, and speed controls. Traffic police must back this with visible, sustained enforcement instead of sporadic drives for cameras. A society that accepts such deaths as fate abdicates its duty to the living. Any road accident deaths should not be filed away as another case number. It must become the trigger for a serious, timebound road safety plan in Jammu and Kashmirs most perilous corridors. Otherwise, the next plunge into a gorge is only a matter of time, and we will once again be told that cognizance has been taken.

Ladakh Scores a Major Intellectual Property Victory with 6 New GI Tags

In an era where the global marketplace strips products of their provenance, the GI tag functions as a vital sentinel for taking cultural artefacts to the masses HARDEEP KOUR BALI In the high altitude of the Trans Himalayas, where the landscape is defined by the stark geometry of mountains and air thin enough to sharpen the senses, a unique evolution is taking place. Ladakh, popularly known as the frontier of spiritual solitudes and trekking itineraries, is now establishing itself as a sovereign of intellectual property. The recent granting of Geographical Indication (GI) tags to six Ladakhi products: Ladakh Chilling Metal work, Ladakh Thigma, Pabu of Ladakh, Ladakh Likir Pottery, Ladakh Painting, and Ladakh Challi Textiles is a milestone. It cannot be overlooked as something ordinary; rather, it is an act of cartographic naming, a technique of drawing lines around the skills of Ladakhi artisans to ensure that their skills stay anchored to their soil. Labelling, branding, or tagging of products is not merely a commercial impulse but a fundamental currency of modern survival. In an era where the global marketplace strips products of their provenance, the GI tag functions as a vital sentinel for taking cultural artefacts to the masses. It provides the much-needed scaffolding for product differentiation, intellectual property, and regional brand building. This leads to enhanced market recognition and, finally, a hard-won credibility on the international map. A GI tag acts as an indigenous seal distinguishing products not just by aesthetics, but by lineage. This tag acts as a shield for artisans, allowing better price realisation and creating market opportunities that were previously inaccessible to the remote producers. GI tag acts as a catalyst to transform a craft from a subsistence activity to a viable economic engine. In a profound outlook, tagging is nothing but a preservationist impulse at the root. By codifying crafts, we are trying to archive traditional knowledge. It acts as a hedge against the homogenising pressures of modernity. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) have facilitated this entire success in intellectual transition. In a project executed in partnership with the Agency Human Welfare Foundation, the bank has acted as a bridge, contributing immensely to the preservation of the unique identity of Ladakhi products and is a definitive step toward enhancing income opportunities for local artisans. Ladakhs journey with Geographical Indication (GI) tagging has expanded to embrace six remarkable expressions of its cultural and artisanal heritage. These include the renowned Chilling Metal Work, reflecting centuries of expertise in cold-forged and cast metals from the Chilling Valley; Thigma, a traditional tie-dye craft whose intricate, multicoloured patterns echo the textures of Ladakhs high-desert landscape; and Pabu, the regions iconic footwear, ingeniously crafted to withstand glacial terrain and extreme cold. The list also honours Likir Pottery, shaped from the clay of the Indus Valley and carrying forward a tangible connection to Ladakhs Neolithic past; Ladakh Painting, inspired by the rich thangka tradition that adorns monasteries and homes alike; and Challi Textiles, resilient woven fabrics that embody the ingenuity, warmth, and endurance of the regions nomadic and pastoral communities. Together, these GI-tagged treasures serve as enduring guardians of Ladakhs identity, preserving its living traditions while celebrating the knowledge and artisanship passed down through generations. Undoubtedly, cultural preservation is at the heart of this project, yet the GI tag functions as a practical economic lever. For the rural artisan, it is not mere symbolism; it is a structural change in how they deal with the market. Primarily, it provides exclusivity in the market and protection against counterfeiting. Artisans are now well protected from mass-produced machine replicas, undercutting the prices of original craftwork. Secondly, it grants the pricing power because a GI-tagged product is no longer called a generic local souvenir but a certified asset of the heritage, commanding premium prices. Lastly, it creates institutional access, as with the GI tag, these products become eligible for priority placement in various government programs and global trading networks, removing the exploitative intermediaries. The tag not only provided power to the artisans but also bestowed status to their abilities. By confirming the hands of the creators, we are not only confirming their skills but also acknowledging the intelligence of the people in the higher Himalayas. Finally, the ledger of the high desert has been updated, and the future of many essential crafts has been secured. (The Author is a poet, columnist, and doctoral researcher. Feedback: writerbali007@gmail.com )

The Exit India Cannot Take

India has taken on the build-out's costs without the capital structure that lets others walk away from them FUTURECRAFT | TECHNOLOGY & MARKETS On 12 June, SpaceX became a public company at a valuation of about $1.77 trillion. Its shares priced at $135 and closed the first day near $161, a jump of almost a fifth. By most measures, it is the largest stock market debut ever attempted. That same week, Indian security agencies quietly froze the final clearances that Starlink, the company's satellite arm, needed to begin selling service in India. Put side by side, the two events describe a single trade. SpaceX sold the public a stake in the AI build-out at the top of the cycle. India is buying into the same build-out with concrete, grid capacity and public money, and it has arranged for itself none of the ways out that the listing just put on display. A profitable rocket, an unprofitable model The headline number flatters the business beneath it. SpaceX reported revenue of roughly $18.7 billion for 2025 and a net loss of $4.94 billion, sitting on an accumulated deficit of $41.3 billion. At $1.77 trillion, it trades at about 94 times last year's sales. Two very different businesses sit inside that figure. Starlink and the launch operation generate cash. xAI, the artificial intelligence lab Elon Musk folded into SpaceX in February, does the reverse. It lost $6.4 billion on $3.2 billion of revenue last year, then a further $2.47 billion in the first quarter of 2026 alone. Its spending on AI hardware was running at an annualised pace near $30 billion by early this year. The wrapper is the real product. A satellite utility that prints money has been tied to a model lab that burns it, and the combined story is sold to public investors as a single growth stock long before the AI revenue arrives to justify the price. Selling the risk is the point. A build-out the size of a moon programme SpaceX is one instance of a much larger pattern. Four of the biggest American technology firms plan to spend around $725 billion on AI infrastructure this year, up from a $610 billion estimate made only months earlier. Widen the lens to the fourteen largest data centre operators, and the figure nears $750 billion. Measured against national output, that is a bigger commitment than the Apollo programme was in its time. Set against this is a thin sliver of revenue. Income from AI products is still counted in the low tens of billions a year, while projected infrastructure spending runs towards $5 trillion by 2030. The gap is bridged by money that increasingly travels in a loop. Nvidia invests in firms that then buy Nvidia chips. xAI now rents spare graphics processors to Anthropic on a contract either side can end in ninety days. Capital moves in a circle, and every turn of the wheel is booked as fresh demand. None of this proves a crash is imminent. The companies leading the spend have real customers and fund much of their capital outlay from their own cash, which is the main thing separating 2026 from the telecom bust of 2001. Sam Altman has said outright that someone is going to lose a tremendous amount of money. The technology is genuine and the financing around it is fragile. Both can hold at once. The body, not the balance sheet India's stake in all this does not sit in its stock market. Analysts at Motilal Oswal point out that Indian equities are largely insulated because the country has almost no listed pure-play AI firms. That is true, and it is also beside the point. India's exposure is physical. Domestic data centre capacity is set to more than triple, from about 1.3 gigawatts in early 2025 to 4.7 gigawatts by 2030, on Mordor Intelligence's estimate. The property firm CBRE counts over $100 billion in committed investment by 2027. The 2026 Union Budget then went further. A foreign cloud provider that serves customers abroad through an Indian data centre will pay no Indian tax on that income until 2047. India keeps the tax on what is sold to Indians and waives it on the global workloads that merely pass through its machines. What India is mostly buying is the utility layer. Its demand leans towards inference, the running of trained models, rather than the capital-hungry training concentrated in a handful of American clusters. That is a sensible place to compete. It is also a business of thin margins, heavy fixed costs and hardware that loses its value quickly. India's own operators can see the danger. Sify Infinit Spaces, soon to be the first listed Indian data centre firm, has warned publicly that herd behaviour could leave the country with a glut of capacity it cannot fill. When the cycle turns A correction in AI valuations, whenever it lands, will be survivable for the firms that built the boom. They can do what SpaceX has just done. They can list a business, fold the losses into a larger story, sell the risk to public markets, and write down whatever fails to work. The capital flows out, the balance sheet absorbs the blow, and the company moves on to its next bet. India has built none of these doors. A half-used data centre in Maharashtra cannot be floated on an exchange. A grid connection reserved for servers cannot be handed back when the tenant leaves. Rupees committed through a tax holiday are gone, whether or not the demand shows up. When the cycle turns, the depreciating silicon and the stranded power contracts stay in the country that hosted them. There is a more hopeful reading, and it deserves a hearing. Jeff Bezos calls this an industrial bubble, the sort that wastes money in the short run but leaves behind useful infrastructure, much as the railways and the early fibre networks did. The catch is that inherited infrastructure rewards whoever buys it cheaply after the writedown, rather than whoever paid full price to build it. If India pays peak prices for assets that are later sold for a fraction, the gain accrues to the next owner. And there is the irony of the week. The one operator that has shown how to turn this cycle into cash, SpaceX, is the company India just turned away at the door, on control grounds that are entirely defensible. New Delhi is right to be wary of infrastructure it cannot govern. It has been far less careful about infrastructure it cannot exit. Bottom Line The SpaceX listing is a lesson in sequencing. Build the thing with other people's money, and sell the risk to the public before the revenue is real. India is running the order backwards, paying up front for the physical layer and then carrying it through the cycle on a sovereign balance sheet. Whether the technology eventually pays off is not really the question. It probably will, somewhere, for someone. The harder question is who is left holding the compute when the money stops moving in a circle, and whether India has an answer ready before the last data centre is switched on. (The Author studies Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence at Rutgers University, New Jersey, USA. He is interested in emerging technologies and innovation, and can be reached on LinkedIn at @arssh-kumar14)

The Microwave Success Trap

We have a generation that is moving so fast, it is running away from its own future QAMER ABBAS MIR We live in a world where almost everything has a fast-forward button. If you want food, it arrives at your doorstep in twenty minutes. If you want an answer to a complex question, an AI bot types it out in three seconds. If you are bored, you can swipe through ten different lives in less than a minute on mobile reels over a flawless 5G network. For a young person growing up today, this hyper-speed environment isnt just convenient; it has completely rewired how they view time, effort, and life itself. This has created a massive psychological hurdle that sociologists call the Microwave Success Trap. When your brain gets used to instant results from technology, you subconsciously start expecting the real world to work the same way. The problem is that the most meaningful parts of life, building a solid career, mastering a difficult field of study, launching a business, or maintaining a marriage, don't have a download bar. They are slow, repetitive, and often incredibly boring. Our parents and grandparents understood that success was a slow-cooked meal that required years of quiet, steady heat. Todays youth, however, are putting their entire lives into a microwave, throwing a tantrum when raw ambition doesn't turn into a gourmet result in sixty seconds. The root of this frustration comes down to a massive digital illusion. When you scroll through social media, the timeline of success is completely erased. A thirty-second reel compresses five years of frustrating failures, broke days, and sleepless nights into a sleek, glamorous montage set to trending music. You only see the finish line: the luxury car, the aesthetic office, the vacation, or the fancy degree. You never see the thousands of hours of unglamorous, repetitive grind that happened behind the scenes. Because the internet constantly highlights the absolute anomalies, the nineteen-year-old crypto millionaire or the twenty-one-year-old lifestyle influencer, young people have internalised these extreme exceptions as the normal baseline. This creates a toxic form of age anxiety. Today, a twenty-two-year-old entering the workforce or a first-year postgraduate student feels like an absolute failure if they aren't completely wealthy and independent immediately. They are trying to sprint a marathon at the pace of a hundred-meter dash, and they are burning out before they even get started. When real life refuses to move at 5G speed because a promotion takes years to earn, a dissertation requires months of tedious data collection, or a business takes a long time to just break even, they panic. They mistake normal, foundational growth for personal stagnation. This impatience has led to a frustrating cycle of job hopping and abandoned goals. Because a screen-conditioned brain finds waiting physically uncomfortable, young professionals often quit their endeavours just as the roots are starting to take hold. They jump from one career path to another, or from one startup idea to the next, desperately searching for a shortcut. They confuse the speed of their devices with their own personal maturity. You can use an app to generate a flawless business plan in seconds, but you cannot download the resilience, leadership, and maturity required to actually run that business when things go wrong. The microwave mindset makes people fall in love with the status of success while making them completely allergic to the actual work of building expertise. Unfortunately, this destructive impatience doesn't stop at the workplace; it is actively ruining modern relationships and marriages. The same swipe left mentality used to discard a boring video is now being applied to human beings. Real, lasting relationships are built on compromise, uncomfortable conversations, and navigating through periods of shared boredom, the exact opposite of a high-speed digital feed. When a young person enters a relationship today, they expect their partner to be as perfectly curated and constantly entertaining as an Instagram profile. The moment the initial excitement fades, and the real, unglamorous work of building a life together begins, they interpret normal friction as incompatibility. They pack their bags and skip to the next option because they never developed the muscle of patience. Ultimately, we have a generation that is moving so fast it is running away from its own future. Technology can be upgraded overnight, but human wisdom, capability, and character still develop at an old-fashioned, analogue pace. The most valuable things in life cannot be ordered online or fast-forwarded. To survive in the real world, the youth have to learn how to turn off the screen, slow down, and slow grind. (The author is a PHD student and can be reached at: Qamerabbas1511@gmail.com )

Career Guidance and the Future of Human Potential in Kashmir

The role of guidance, awareness, and adaptability in shaping informed futures In Kashmir, people place great value on building better futures. Education, skills, and personal growth remain important pathways to opportunity and progress. However, one question often receives less attention than it deserves: how do individuals connect their abilities, interests, and aspirations with the opportunities available to them? This is where career guidance becomes important. Career guidance is commonly associated with choosing a profession or an educational pathway. Its scope, however, extends far beyond these decisions. It helps individuals understand their strengths, interests, values, and aspirations while enabling them to explore opportunities, make informed choices, and adapt to change throughout their lives. In this sense, it serves as a bridge between aspiration and opportunity. For Kashmir, this bridge has become increasingly important. The region is home to considerable talent, creativity, and potential. People continue to invest in education, skills, and personal growth in the hope of creating better futures. In a world of expanding opportunities, ambition alone may not always be sufficient. Individuals also need access to information, mentorship, exposure, and guidance. The world of work is evolving at a remarkable pace. Advances in technology, digital connectivity, artificial intelligence, and globalisation are reshaping industries and creating entirely new professions. Opportunities that did not exist a decade ago are now becoming viable pathways, while many traditional fields are evolving in response to technological and economic change. In Kashmir, this changing landscape is creating new opportunities across a range of sectors. Possibilities are emerging in technology, entrepreneurship, research, creative industries, digital services, remote work, and innovation-driven fields. As these opportunities continue to evolve, awareness of available pathways does not always develop at the same pace. The challenge facing many individuals today is not a lack of aspiration but a lack of clarity. Knowing that opportunities exist is very different from understanding where they are, how they are changing, and what preparation is required to pursue them. As a result, important decisions are often made with incomplete information. This highlights the importance of guidance. Research from leading institutions around the world consistently shows that success depends on more than talent or academic achievement alone. Access to information, exposure to opportunities, mentorship, and professional networks often play a significant role in shaping outcomes. Research led by Harvard economist Raj Chetty has highlighted the importance of social networks and social capital in shaping economic opportunity and mobility. His findings suggest that while talent may be widely distributed, access to information, guidance, and opportunity often is not. People who understand available pathways and have access to strong networks may be better positioned to pursue opportunities that align with their strengths and interests. This insight carries particular relevance for Kashmir. The region is home to considerable talent, creativity, and potential. What often shapes outcomes is access to information, exposure to opportunities, and the confidence to explore pathways that may not be immediately visible. Guidance can help bridge this gap. It can provide individuals with tools to understand emerging trends, explore possibilities, evaluate options, and make informed decisions. Equally important, it encourages self-awareness. Effective guidance begins not with identifying opportunities but with understanding oneself. Interests, values, strengths, and goals form the foundation upon which meaningful careers and fulfilling lives are built. Research from universities and the work of Melinda Mechur Karp reinforce another important idea: career development is not a one-time decision. It is a lifelong process of learning, exploration, and adaptation. Effective guidance helps individuals make informed choices while remaining flexible enough to respond to changing circumstances. People benefit from clear pathways while retaining the freedom to explore interests, refine goals, and adapt as opportunities evolve. An example of this can be seen in Tamil Nadu, where initiatives involving IIT Madras have explored technology-enabled career guidance for students at scale. The value of such initiatives lies not in technology alone, but in expanding access to reliable information and structured guidance. The broader lesson is that people are often better equipped to navigate change when they have access to guidance, mentorship, and accurate information. These lessons carry particular relevance for Kashmir. Economic and technological changes are creating new possibilities across a range of sectors. Digital connectivity has expanded access to learning resources, professional networks, and employment opportunities. As a result, individuals have greater access to information and opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings. Greater access to information and opportunities also expands the range of choices available to individuals. Compared with previous generations, people today often have access to a wider set of educational and career pathways. In such an environment, guidance can play an important role in supporting informed decision-making. One of its most valuable contributions is its ability to build adaptability. The future of work is widely expected to be shaped by continuous change. New technologies, evolving industries, and shifting skill requirements will require individuals to learn, adapt, and grow throughout their lives. Success is likely to depend increasingly not on mastering a single set of skills but on developing the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn. This reality calls for a broader understanding of career development. The question is no longer simply what profession someone should pursue. The more important question is what capabilities will enable individuals to thrive throughout a lifetime of change. A growing body of research and policy analysis points to the same conclusion: success in the twenty-first century depends not only on knowledge, but also on adaptability, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and the ability to continue learning throughout life. The conversation about career guidance can also be viewed through the broader lens of human development. It involves helping people understand themselves, recognise opportunities, and make informed decisions that align with their abilities and aspirations. Viewed more broadly, guidance is not about directing people toward a particular profession. It is about equipping people to make informed decisions in a world of expanding possibilities and constant change. Among Kashmir's greatest strengths are its people, whose talents, aspirations, and potential will continue to shape its future. Helping them recognise their strengths, understand their options, and navigate their futures with confidence is therefore not merely an educational objective. It is an investment in human potential and, in turn, in the future of Kashmir itself. (The Author writes on education and human development. Feedback: bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )

Hiralal Chatta: The Tenacious leader of the Kashmiri Pandits

Hiralal Chatta will be always remembered as a down-to-earth, tenacious leader of the Kashmiri Pandit community who proved himself a core nationalist and patriot FRAGRANCE OF IDEAS On a fateful day 17th June 2014, twelve years ago, we came to know about the tragic and untimely demise of Hiralal Chatta, the then President of All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC). He took over from the veteran & a great leader Pt. Amarnath Vaishnavi after his death in the year 2012. It was a natural choice at that point of time as Hiralal Chatta was the closest junior colleague of Vaishnavi ji for the last five decades in RSS & ASKPC. Hiralal was born on 24 February, 1943 at Rajghat-Baramulla (Kashmir) in a prominent family of Chattas. His father was a humble employee of the Post & Telegraph department. Hiralal got his early education in Baramulla. He did his BSc in Government Degree College, Baramulla. He got a couple of jobs in the state government but chose to serve in the Education department. He did his BEd while he was serving as a teacher in the Government High School in his native district. He was always a darling of the students wherever he served as a teacher. He retired as Zonal Education Officer, Chenani-Udhampur in the year 2003. From his childhood he was trained in the RSS school of thought and had developed a great commitment to serve the society and the Indian nation in various capacities in the Kashmir valley. He played a pivotal role in making RSS reach and spread in Sopore, Handwara, Kupwara, Bandipur and other far flung villages of the erstwhile Baramulla district. Besides the RSS, he was deeply associated with Sanatan Dharam Sabha, Baramulla and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidhyarthi Parishad (ABVP). He also had his hand in establishing Ramayan Satsang in Sopore. In the districts of Baramulla, Kupwara and Bandipur, Hiralal was a big voice of the minority Hindu community. During the Hindu agitation of 1967 in Kashmir, he worked tirelessly in order to unite the community of Kashmiri Pandits. He also offered 'satyagraha' during the height of the movement and was in jail for one month. Even at the time of declaration of emergency, he was detained for interrogation by the police and later released the next day. During the organised protests against the 1986-carnage on Hindu temples & other places of worship in the valley, he played a very gallant role. As a part of the Joint Hindu Action Committee, he contributed a lot that restored the confidence back to the KP community living in far-flung areas of north Kashmir. When the 'vigraha' of Mata Bhadrakali was stolen from the revered shrine of the deity in Handwara area in early 1980s, Hiralal organised agitation against it along with the other prominent activists of Baramulla, Handwara, Kupwara, Sopore and Bandipur. This author was also deputed by my seniors in the RSS in Srinagar to go to Baramulla, join the protests and report. We went in a big bus-procession from Baramulla to Mata Bhadrakali shrine and a largely attended rally was addressed by many including Hiralal. Consequently, the 'Vigraha' was recovered thereafter by the police authorities. During the 1990s, when terrorism was at its peak, the Vigraha of Mata Shri Bhadrakali was stolen again but it was recovered after a long investigation, search operation and special efforts of the central and state governments. Hiralal Chatta fought for it vigorously during the struggling period of exile of the community. With the active support of the Indian army, other security forces and the police, the pristine glory stands restored to this great and historical shrine. After his retirement from his services, he also joined BJP formally and was a member of its J&K state Working Committee for a number of years. He also took part in Tiranga Yatra of BJP and courted arrest a number of times. He was one of the architects of shaping the Kashmir Displaced District unit in J&K BJP. His association with other KP organisations under the banner of Kashmiri Pandit Organisations United Forum enriched collective efforts of the community to derive far-reaching results. Hiralal had a very intimate relationship with the prominent leader of the community, Adv. Tikalal Taploo and he worked for him when he (Taploo) contested the Assembly elections. Hiralal himself fought once for the Habbakadal assembly constituency unsuccessfully during the 2009 Assembly elections. His proximity with different prominent BJP and RSS leaders at the national and state level was well known to everyone who mattered. Hiralal Chatta got a great recognition during the most tumultuous period of the forced mass exodus of the Kashmiri Pandit community in 1990-91. His close relatives were killed by the terrorists in the district of Baramulla. It was a very difficult time for the displaced community, social organisations, government and the leaders of the community and the political parties. He along with other senior and junior colleagues contributed tirelessly throughout and helped people in their hard times. He under the leadership of Vaishnavi ji took control of the affairs at the Geeta Bhawan, Jammu and formed J&K Sahayata Samiti under the directions of RSS in Jammu and was appointed the General Secretary of this philanthropic organisation. He was instrumental in organising a number of protest demonstrations during the 1990s in Jammu and Delhi that forced the administration to arrange for establishment of refugee camps for the displaced population. He also fought for the rights of students, employees and traders among the Kashmiri Pandits and got a number of things done by the administration for them. In the Kashmiri Pandit Representative Assembly organised on 13 July 2000, Hiralal endorsed the concept of Homeland for Kashmiri Pandits in the valley and termed it a separate state. He was among others including Amarnath Vaishnavi and R.K.Raina responsible for the establishment of Amar Balidan Trust at Jammu which did and is doing philanthropic activities benefitting hundreds of needy people within the displaced community. He joined in Jammu the historic 'Kashmir Sankalp Yatra' organised by Panun Kashmir in the year 2007 covering 11 states and UTs in 50 days espousing the cause of Kashmir and Kashmiri Pandits throughout the country. He was part of several Kashmiri Pandit delegations that made their presentations before the Parliamentary Standing Committees on Home Affairs in regard to the Kashmiri Pandit community from the year 2008 to the year 2012. He also made presentations in the meetings organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs in Delhi and Jammu, in which issues pertaining to the displaced Pandit community were discussed. His speech in the well-attended meeting of the Department of Home Affairs in the North Block at New Delhi in 2013 brought a number of changes to the benefit of the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community. Hiralal, unfortunately, was very inattentive towards his own health and his family. He was so overwhelmed with his social and organisational obligations that his family and his own health got relegated to second and third priority. Ultimately, his health deteriorated so badly that the whole community had to pay a price for that when he breathed his last after being in the hospital for a good period of time. This author met him in the RSS camp at Kheer Bhawani-Tullamulla, Kashmir, in the year 1973. We would often visit each other's homes in Kashmir and would even stay there when on tour. He never nourished any sort of malice towards others, but would respect the fact of 'difference of opinion' on important issues. By and large, he would always go with the general consensus on issues of importance in regard to the society and the nation. Hiralal Chatta will be always remembered as a down-to-earth, tenacious leader of the Kashmiri Pandit community who proved himself a core nationalist and patriot. (The author is a senior BJP and KP leader, Human Rights Defender and a columnist and can be reached at: ashwanikc2012@gmail.com )

Govt Committed to Protecting Kashmirs Houseboat Heritage: Javed Rana

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Tuesday reaffirmed the governments commitment to preserving Kashmirs iconic houseboat heritage, describing it as a vital component of the Valleys cultural identity and tourism economy. The Minister made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation []

Jammu Kashmir Ranks Second Nationally in TB Campaign, CS Orders Push in Lagging Districts

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has secured the second position among States and Union Territories under Phase-II of the national 100-Day TB Mukt Bharat Campaign, with Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Tuesday directing health authorities to intensify efforts in districts lagging behind on key tuberculosis control indicators to accelerate progress towards the elimination of the disease. []

Bandipora NTPHC Ambulance Off the Road; BMO Says it Was Used for VIP Duty, CMO Says it is Unfit for Roads

SRINAGAR: Residents of Ashtangoo and adjoining villages in north Kashmirs Bandipora district have alleged that the absence of the only ambulance attached to the New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) has left thousands of people without dependable emergency medical transport, even as senior health officials offer conflicting explanations about the vehicles status. The villagers, who []

Jammu Kashmir Emerging as Active Partner in Indias Growth Story: MP Khatana

SRINAGAR: Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Ghulam Ali Khatana on Tuesday said that Jammu and Kashmir is all set to play a major role in Indias journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. Addressing a press conference here ahead of the upcoming 3-day exhibition, Rise in Jammu Kashmir 2026 Khatana said, The event will []

Ahead of Amarnath Yatra, Security Beefed Up Across Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Authorities have beefed up security across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra, with multi-layered arrangements, mock drills and coordinated exercises being carried out to ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. Officials said that the security forces, police and civil administration have activated a comprehensive security grid covering transit routes, base []

DPRs Underway for 707 km Road Projects Worth Rs 65,000 Crore in Jammu Kashmir, Says Ajay Tamta

SRINAGAR: Road and transport infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a major boost since 2014, with projects worth nearly Rs 1.35 lakh crore undertaken to strengthen connectivity across the Union Territory, Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta said on Tuesday. Tamta said the scale of investment represents a significant shift []

Satish Sharma Reviews Muharram Arrangements During Srinagar City Tour, Orders Swift Completion of Civic Works

SRINAGAR: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, and Science and Technology Satish Sharma on Tuesday toured several areas of Srinagar to review arrangements for the forthcoming Muharram observances. The visit was aimed at assessing civic and infrastructural preparedness across key localities to ensure essential services are in []

South Kashmir: Nine Vehicles Seized in Crackdown on Illegal Mineral Extraction

SRINAGAR: Police have seized nine vehicles, including a JCB machine and tractors, in two separate cases of alleged illegal extraction and transportation of minerals in Anantnag and Shopian districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Officials said the first action was taken by a police party from Police Post Dialgam, which seized one JCB machine and four []

World should move from donor-recipient to partnerships based on solidarity and equality: PM Modi to G7 leaders

Speaking at the Outreach Session on 'Forging new Partnerships and rebuilding international solidarity here, Modi also underscored the importance of rust in building international partnerships, especially in an increasingly interconnected world.

Teenager from PoK Repatriated After Inadvertently Crossing into Poonch

SRINAGAR: A teenager from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir was repatriated after he inadvertently crossed into Indian territory in Poonch district on June 9. Officials said that the boy, identified as Javid Ali, son of Mohd Sharaz and a resident of Tetrinote Mohallah Jabri in PoK, was repatriated today after he was apprehended by the army while crossing []

Google removes Telegram app from Play Store on govt order, Apple may follow suit

New Delhi: Google has removed messaging app Telegram from the Play Store and Apple is likely to follow suit in compliance with a government order, sources aware of the development said. The government has ordered Google and Apple to temporarily delist Telegram app from the app stores to check paper leak during the upcoming NEET []

JCO, Three Army Soldiers Injured in Accidental Blast Near LoC in Nowshera Rajouri

Jammu: One Junior Commissioned Officer and three jawans were injured in an accidental blast during patrolling near LoC in Nowshera area of Rajouri district on Tuesday. Officials said that the explosion occurred while the troops were on a routine patrol along the Line of Control. The injured personnel were immediately evacuated and shifted to a []

Funds Crunch Delaying Hospital Payments, but Health Remains Priority: Sakina Itoo

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister Sakina Itoo on Tuesday said the government is examining pending liabilities of nearly Rs 275 crore owed to private hospitals and will clear the dues in a phased manner, while acknowledging the financial constraints faced by the Union Territory. Speaking after inaugurating a medical camp here, the minister said []

JCO, Three Army Soldiers Injured in Accidental Blast Near LoC

SRINAGAR: One Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) and three jawans were injured in an accidental blast during patrolling near LoC in Nowshera area of Rajouri district on Tuesday. Officials said that the explosion occurred while the troops were on a routine patrol along the Line of Control. The injured personnel were immediately evacuated and shifted to []

IAS Officer Transferred to Ladakh After Brief Posting to Andaman and Nicobar Islands

SRINAGAR: The Central Government has revised the posting of 2012-batch AGMUT cadre IAS officer Himanshu Gupta, transferring him to Ladakh shortly after he was assigned to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Gupta was recently repatriated to his parent AGMUT cadre following approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). After returning from central deputation []

NC Should Focus on Governance, Fulfil Poll Promises Instead of Statehood Drama: BJP Leader

SRINAGAR: Senior BJP leader and legislator Ranbir Singh Pathania on Tuesday questioned the National Conferences proposed protest in Delhi over the demand of statehood, saying the issue has already been committed to by Parliament as well as the countrys top leadership. Pathania termed the proposed programme at Jantar Mantar a new drama by the National []

Body of Missing Budgam Man Found in Srinagar

SRINAGAR: The body of a man who had been missing for the past three days was recovered from the Chinar Bagh area near Dalgate in Srinagar on Tuesday, officials said. The deceased has been identified as Nazir Ahmad Sofi (50), son of Ghulam Rasool Sofi, a resident of Wathwara, Chadoora, in central Kashmirs Budgam district. []

CM Omar Abdullah Lays Foundation Stones for Two Sewage Treatment Projects in Srinagar

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday laid the foundation stones for two major sewage treatment projects in Srinagar aimed at strengthening the citys wastewater management system, improving sanitation and protecting water bodies. The projects include the construction of a 2.5 million litres per day (MLD) Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Chattabal []

J&K Doctors Protest Six-Month Stipend Delay; DH Pulwama, SDH Shopian Among Affected

Srinagar, June 16: Postgraduate (PG), DNB and Diploma doctors in Jammu & Kashmir have launched a peaceful protest over the non-payment of salaries for the past six months, despite continuing to provide healthcare services across hospitals in the Union Territory. Among the affected institutions are District Hospital (DH) Pulwama and Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Shopian, where postgraduate, DNB and Diploma doctors have also not received their stipends for the last six months. The doctors said they have been working day and night, treating patients and fulfilling their duties, while facing severe financial hardships due to the prolonged delay in salary disbursement. Backing their protest, Health Activist, Dr Mohammad Momin Khan expressed concern over the situation and urged the government to address the issue without further delay. Postgraduate, DNB and Diploma doctors in J&K continue to serve patients day and night, yet many have not received their salaries for the last six months. How can we expect doctors to work under such financial distress? Dr Khan said. He called upon the Jammu & Kashmir Government and the concerned authorities to immediately release the pending salaries and ensure that doctors are not forced to struggle for their rightful dues while serving the public.

Srinagar Police Attach Properties Worth 1.5 Crore of Drug Peddlers Under NDPS Act

Srinagar: Srinagar Police have attached immovable properties worth 1.5 crore belonging to two alleged drug peddlers under the NDPS Act, 1985, as part of the ongoing _Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan_. In a handout, the police said the action targets assets acquired through proceeds of narcotics trafficking to dismantle the financial network of drug []

Police Attach Properties Worth Rs 1.5 Crore Belonging to Alleged Drug Peddlers in Srinagar

SRINAGAR: Police in central kashmirs Srinagar district have attached immovable properties worth Rs 1.5 crore belonging to two alleged drug peddlers under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, as part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyaan. According to a police statement, the action was taken to target assets allegedly []

PM Modi concludes 'historic and productive' Slovakia visit; heads to France for G7 Summit

Bratislava , June 16 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday concluded his visit to Slovakia, describing it as historic and productive and stating that the outcomes of the visit would further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. In a special gesture reflecting the warmth of India-Slovakia ties, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico personally came to see off Prime Minister Modi after the conclusion of his visit. In a post on X, PM Modi thanked the Slovak government and people for their hospitality and warm welcome. I am concluding my historic and productive visit to Slovakia. The outcomes of this visit will significantly contribute to strengthening bilateral relations between our countries. Stronger trade relations will bring significant benefits, especially for our youth and future generations, PM Modi said. He added, I thank the government of the Slovak Republic and its citizens for their warm welcome and hospitality. I am also very grateful to Prime Minister Fico for personally coming to see me off. During his visit, Prime Minister Modi was conferred Slovakia's highest civilian honour, The Order of the White Double Cross (1st Class), by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini. The honour marked the 33rd international recognition bestowed upon PM Modi by a foreign country. The visit by PM Modi saw the two countries sign a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) in the field of education, research, talent mobility, and technology as they cement their ties further. The agreements were formalised in a Joint Statement issued during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Bratislava, following delegation-level talks with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. The initiatives heavily focus on talent mobility, professional safety, and institutional partnerships across the higher education and cultural sectors. The two leaders signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Field of Labour Migration. The agreement is designed to facilitate the orderly, safe, and legal movement of workers while streamlining information exchange between respective regulatory authorities. to expand bilateral economic cooperation between the two countries by strengthening the role of the India-Slovakia Joint Economic Committee (JEC) to identify and promote high-potential areas of collaboration. According to the India-Slovakia Joint Statement issued following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, the two leaders committed to enhancing trade and investment ties across several sectors, including automotive, electronics and advanced manufacturing. The leaders agreed to further strengthen the role of the India-Slovakia Joint Economic Committee in identifying and promoting high-potential areas of economic cooperation between the two countries, the joint statement read. The two sides also agreed to explore avenues to significantly increase bilateral trade and two-way investment by leveraging Slovakia's established industrial ecosystem and India's scale, innovation ecosystem and technological capabilities. (ANI)

6.7-Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Indonesia

SRINAGAR: A powerful 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck Indonesias Sulawesi Island on Tuesday morning, prompting authorities to launch assessments amid concerns over possible aftershocks, though no immediate reports of casualties or major damage were received. According to seismic monitoring agencies, the earthquakes epicentre was located about 42 kilometres southeast of the city of Palu on Sulawesi Island []

Jammu State People Movement Launched, Separate Jammu State Demand Gains Momentum

A meeting of prominent citizens, social activists, intellectuals, retired officials, youth representatives, and community leaders from across the Jammu region was held to discuss growing concerns regarding the region's political representation, development, employment opportunities, and preservation of its distinct geographical, historical, and cultural identity. In that meeting, the participants expressed genuine concern that Jammu has not received its due share in governance, development, infrastructure, institutional growth, and public employment, despite its significant contributions to the economy, revenue generation, tourism, and national security. They observed that the aspirations of the people of Jammu remain inadequately addressed even after the constitutional changes of 2019. After detailed deliberations, the gathering unanimously resolved to launch a peaceful, non-political and democratic movement to create a separate Jammu State. Accordingly, the Jammu State People Movement (JSPM) was formally constituted to pursue this objective through constitutional means. A press conference by the Core Group of JSPM was held at Jammu on 15 June 2026. It was highlighted during the press conference that Jammu possesses all the attributes of a viable state, including substantial natural resources, hydropower potential, religious and heritage tourism, agricultural and horticultural opportunities, and a strategic geographical location. A separate state, it was argued, would enable focused governance and balanced development for all districts and communities of the region. The JSPM emphasised that Jammu's demand for statehood is not against Kashmir or the people of Kashmir. The movement harbours no ill feelings towards any region or community and aims to move on from a sordid past. If the Government of India chooses to restore and continue extending special political attention and statehood to Kashmir, Jammu too deserves recognition of its distinct aspirations and a separate state of its own. The proposed Jammu State shall be founded on the principles of secularism, social harmony, inclusive development, and equal opportunity for all communities, living across the ten districts of the Jammu Province. The JSPM appealed to the people of Jammu to unite peacefully and democratically in support of this movement for dignity, self-governance, and balanced regional development. The presser was addressed by Col Ajay Raina (Retd), Chairman of the JSPM, along with Prof Virender Gupta, Convener of the movement.

Centre Blocks Telegram in India Till June 22 Ahead of NEET UG 2026 Re Examination

Srinagar, June 16: The Central Government has ordered the temporary blocking of Telegram in India till June 22 ahead of the NEET (UG) 2026 re examination scheduled for June 21, according to a statement issued by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The NTA said the decision was taken on its recommendation and is aimed at preventing misuse of the messaging platform by organised cheating networks during the examination period. Under the directions issued under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, access to Telegram will remain restricted in India until June 22, covering the day of the examination and its immediate aftermath. The agency also said Telegram has been directed to disable its message editing feature in India for already posted messages until June 30. According to the NTA, the feature has previously been used to create fabricated evidence of alleged paper leaks after examinations had concluded. The NTA said the measures were taken in the interest of public order and to protect candidates from fraud and misinformation linked to examination related rackets. The agency thanked the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology for what it described as timely intervention, saying the restrictions would help ensure the secure and fair conduct of the NEET (UG) 2026 re examination on June 21.

NEET-UG re-test: Govt places curbs on Telegram messaging app till June 22

NEW DELHI: The government on Tuesday temporarily restricted access to the Telegram messaging app ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, with the National Testing Agency saying the measure was aimed at tackling cheating rackets and misinformation. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), acting on recommendations made by the National Testing Agency (NTA), has []

MeT Forecasts Light Rain, Thunder and Gusty Winds at Scattered Places Across J&K on June 1617

Srinagar, June 16: The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has forecast generally unsettled weather across Jammu and Kashmir over the coming days, with intermittent rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds expected in several areas. According to the forecast, June 1617 is likely to remain partly to generally cloudy, with light rain and brief intense showers accompanied by thunder, lightning and gusty winds at scattered places. From June 1822, weather conditions are expected to remain generally cloudy with one or two spells of light rain, brief intense showers, thunderstorms, hailstorms, lightning and gusty winds affecting many areas. Between June 2325, partly to generally cloudy conditions are expected to continue with light rain and brief showers at a few places. The weather office has issued an advisory asking people to stay away from loose structures, electric poles, overhead wires and old trees during thunderstorms and gusty winds. Authorities have also advised suspension of boating and Shikara activities during adverse weather conditions. The department warned that brief intense showers may trigger flash floods and mudslides at isolated locations.

Mehbooba Mufti seeks release of youths booked under PSA, demands permission for Ashura processions

Srinagar, Jun 16: People's Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday urged the administration to allow traditional Ashura processions and release youths allegedly booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA) for participating in demonstrations related to recent developments in Iran. Mufti said Muharram was not merely a religious observance but an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir's spiritual, cultural and historical heritage, with generations of people participating in commemorations associated with the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. She urged the administration to make adequate arrangements for mourners, including traffic management, healthcare, sanitation, drinking water, electricity and other essential services to ensure the smooth conduct of religious gatherings and processions. Expressing concern over reports that several young men had been booked under the PSA and lodged in jails outside Jammu and Kashmir, Mufti said such actions were deeply troubling and could further alienate the youth. The use of harsh laws against young people, particularly during the sacred month of Muharram, is both insensitive and counterproductive, she said. Muharram is a period of reflection, compassion and solidarity with those who suffer, and the government should engage with people and address their concerns rather than resort to punitive measures, she added. The PDP chief called on the authorities to review all such cases, release those detained and refrain from further coercive action. She also sought permission for Ashura processions and other traditional Muharram observances, saying religious processions were an integral part of the region's cultural and spiritual heritage and should be facilitated in a peaceful and dignified manner. Muharram is a time of reflection, sacrifice and remembrance. The values embodied by Imam Hussain continue to inspire people to stand for justice, compassion and human dignity, Mufti said. She appealed to people across Jammu and Kashmir to observe Muharram in a spirit of patience, unity, mutual respect and service to humanity while remembering the universal message of Karbala. (KNS).

Ruhullah's claim on Yusuf Pathan sparks political row, Mahua questions 'Bulldozer Politics'

Srinagar, June 16: A social media post by Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has triggered a political controversy, with Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra citing the incident to question what she described as ulldozer politics. In a post on X, Ruhullah recalled an incident from the last winter session of Parliament when opposition parties were protesting against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and other issues. According to Ruhullah, TMC MPs were leading the protest in the Well of the House when a prominent Muslim MP from outside the party approached TMC MP and former cricketer Yusuf Pathan and asked him to withdraw from the demonstration. Ruhullah claimed that Pathan returned to his seat and appeared visibly shaken. He said that when he later asked Pathan what had happened, the MP allegedly told him that he had been warned against protesting the BJP. The Srinagar MP further claimed that Pathan was allegedly told that opposing the BJP could result in authorities bulldozing his house in Gujarat. Ruhullah said that Mahua Moitra later intervened and assured Pathan that the Trinamool Congress stood firmly behind him and his family. Expressing disappointment over Pathan's subsequent political choices, Ruhullah wrote that one felt sorry for Moitra and the TMC because they had supported him, only to be let down later. Responding to Ruhullah's post, Moitra shared it on X and described the allegation as evidence of what she called ulldozer politics. SHOCKING. BULLDOZER JANATA PARTY exposed by a Member of Parliament. 'Don't protest, they will bulldoze your house.' Is this why Yusuf Pathan could not stand up to Jodi No. 1? And will the media ask any questions? she wrote. The exchange has generated debate on social media, with opposition leaders and supporters weighing in on the claims.(KNS).

Earthquake of magnitude 6.8 jolts Indonesia

Jakarta , June 16 : A strong 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit Indonesia on Tuesday morning, as reported by the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). In a post on X, the NCS said that the earthquake occurred at 08:57 AM at a depth of 45 kilometres in Indonesia. EQ of M: 6.8, On: 16/06/2026 08:57:49 IST, Lat: 1.073 S, Long: 120.263 E, Depth: 45 Km, Location: Indonesia. https://x.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/2066727550081245617?s=20 Local media outlet Jakarta Globe reported that residents evacuated their homes after the earthquake struck Palu and parts of Central Sulawesi on Tuesday. Citing local residents and authorities monitoring the situation, it said that the tremor was strongly felt in Palu, Sigi, Donggala, and Tojo Una-Una regencies. According to Jakarta Globe, people also moved away from coastal areas as a precaution against possible aftershocks or tsunami risks. While there were no immediate reports of casualties or major structural damage as of now, it reported that authorities were still assessing the impact of the earthquake in affected areas. This is the second strong earthquake to hit Southeast Asia in June. Earlier on June 8, a powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.7 struck the Philippines, as reported by the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). (ANI)

One Dead, Two Critically Injured After Motorcycle Falls into Gorge in Poonch

Jammu:One person died and two others were critically injured on Tuesday morning after a motorcycle skidded off the road and fell into a deep gorge at Dhana Dohian Sathara. A police official said that the accident occurred around 8:00 am involving motorcycle JK02CJ 6108. The deceased was identified as Mohd Azam, 35, son of Noor []

Not child's play: Iran honours victims of Minab strikes ahead of football match

Iran is honouring students lost in a missile strike. The national football team competes as 'Minab 168' in the FIFA World Cup. They wear gold pins as a tribute. The country's foreign ministry rejects US claims about the incident. Iran's resilience is built on the memory of the departed.

Slovakia backs Indias permanent UNSC seat

BRATISLAVA: Slovakia backed Indias bid for permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council as the two countries elevated their ties to a Comprehensive Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modis landmark visit to the Central European nation. In a joint statement issued after talks between Prime Minister Modi and his Slovak counterpart Robert Fico on []

One Dead, Two Critically Injured After Motorcycle Falls into Gorge in J&K's Poonch

Jammu June 16:One person died and two others were critically injured on Tuesday morning after a motorcycle skidded off the road and fell into a deep gorge at Dhana Dohian Sathara. A police official told GNS that the accident occurred around 8:00 am involving motorcycle JK02CJ 6108. The deceased was identified as Mohd Azam, 35, son of Noor Mohd. The injured have been identified as Mohd Arif, 22, son of Akbar Din, and Noor Mohd, 50, son of Lal Din. All three are residents of Islamabad, Poonch. The injured were shifted to District Hospital Poonch for treatment. Police have taken cognizance of the incident and further details are awaited.(GNS)

155 Drug Hotspots Identified, 701 Peddlers Arrested Under Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan

Authorities have identified 155 drug hotspots across Jammu division and arrested 701 drug peddlers as part of the ongoing 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan. During a high-level review meeting officials revealed that 598 FIRs had been registered, narcotics worth large quantities seized, and properties worth over 45 crore attached or demolished.

Eight dead as US Air Force B-52 bomber crashes in California

California, June 16: Eight crew members were killed after a US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Edwards Air Force Base in California's Mojave Desert on Monday. According to CNN, the aircraft, which was on a routine test mission, took off at approximately 11:20 am (local time) before crashing near the remote military installation northeast of Los Angeles. Edwards Air Force Base said all eight crew members on board are presumed dead, and the incident has now shifted from a rescue effort to a recovery operation, CNN reported. It was tragic and unsurvivable, Colonel James Hayes said during a press conference, according to CNN. Emergency responders were dispatched immediately after the crash. Base officials said the aircraft left behind a towering plume of black smoke visible from a distance. Video aired by CNN affiliate KCAL showed a large blackened scar on the runway and lingering smoke, although distinct wreckage from the bomber was difficult to identify. Chief Master Sergeant Joshua T Skarloken said officials were in the process of notifying the families of those killed. According to CNN, the crew consisted of a combination of military personnel, government civilians and government contractors. Air Force officials said the aircraft had been conducting a test mission in support of a radar modernisation programme when the crash occurred, CNN reported. While the base has since reopened, operations have been suspended through Tuesday as authorities continue investigating the incident and recovering debris from the crash site. The B-52 Stratofortress is among the oldest aircraft still in active service with the US Air Force. First introduced in 1955, the long-range heavy bomber remains a key component of America's strategic arsenal. (ANI)

Eight Feared Dead After US B-52 Bomber Crashes in California

SRINAGAR: Eight people are believed to have been killed after a US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after take-off from Edwards Air Force Base in Californias Mojave Desert on Monday, according to multiple media reports. The aircraft went down at around 11:20 a.m. local time shortly after departure, according to an official alert issued []

Govt committed to empower youth through sports: Sakeena Itoo

Kulgam, Jun 15: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Monday witnessed the final match of the prestigious Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo Cricket Tournament held at DH Pora in Kulgam district amid enthusiastic participation of local youth and sports lovers. The tournament, organized in memory of late Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo, saw participation from several talented teams from across the region. It served as a vibrant platform for promoting sportsmanship, discipline and healthy competition among youth. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Minister lauded the organizers for successfully conducting the tournament and providing a constructive avenue for the young talent to showcase their sporting abilities. She said that sports play a pivotal role in shaping character, fostering teamwork and steering youth towards positive and productive pursuits. Sakeena Itoo reiterated the Jammu and Kashmir governments commitment towards strengthening the sports infrastructure and creating more opportunities for youth engagement in J&K. She emphasized that focused efforts are being made to encourage sports activities at the grassroots level and identify promising talent from rural and remote areas. The government is committed to empower our youth through sports, education and skill development initiatives. Sports not only contribute to physical well-being but also instil values of perseverance, leadership and mutual respect, asserted the Minister. Highlighting the immense sporting potential of Jammu and Kashmirs youth, she called upon the young players to actively participate in sports and make full use of the facilities and opportunities being extended by the government. She assured continued support for the initiatives aimed at nurturing sporting talent and promoting youth-centric activities throughout the region. The Minister also appreciated the enthusiasm displayed by the participating teams and spectators, stating that such events strengthen community bonds and inspire the younger generation to pursue excellence in sports. Later, Sakeena Itoo distributed trophies, medals and certificates among the winning and runner-up teams and congratulated all the participants for their spirited performance. She encouraged the players to continue striving for excellence and represent Jammu and Kashmir at higher levels of competition.

Dir Agri Kashmir reviews functioning of Departmental Farms

Srinagar, Jun 15: Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah on Monday chaired a comprehensive review meeting at Directorate Hall, Lal Mandi, Srinagar, to review the preparedness and implementation strategy for the Annual Action Plan (AAP) 202627 across the Kashmir Division. The meeting was attended by Joint Director Agriculture Inputs and other senior officers of the Agriculture Department. Detailed deliberations were held on district-wise targets, priorities, and implementation modalities under various developmental schemes and programmes envisaged in the Annual Action Plan for the financial year 202627. During the meeting, the Director emphasized the importance of timely and effective execution of all interventions to ensure optimum benefits reach the farming community. He directed the officers to strengthen field-level monitoring, maintain close coordination with stakeholders, and ensure the achievement of both physical and financial targets within the prescribed timelines. Highlighting the need for sustainable and inclusive agricultural growth, the Director stressed the promotion of modern farming practices, crop diversification, farm mechanization, efficient resource utilization, and capacity building of farmers. He also reviewed the preparedness of the districts for the implementation of key agricultural initiatives and programmes during the ensuing cropping seasons. The Director called upon all officers to work with commitment, accountability, and a result-oriented approach to successfully achieve the objectives of the Annual Action Plan 202627 and contribute towards enhancing agricultural productivity, profitability, and farmers welfare across all the departmental farms in Kashmir Division. The meeting concluded with a detailed review of ongoing departmental activities and directions for effective monitoring, timely execution, and regular evaluation of programmes to ensure successful implementation of the Annual Action Plan202627.

Amit Sharma reviews Census-2027 operations in Anantnag

Anantnag, Jun 15: In continuation of ongoing Districts Review streak, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director Census Operations (DCO), Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Amit Sharma along with Biswajit Das, Deputy Director General, MHA, Office of Registrar General of India, on Monday chaired a comprehensive review meeting at Conference Hall, Anantnag to assess the progress of the ongoing House Listing Operations (HLO) being conducted under Census 2027 in the district. The meeting was also attended by Principal Census Officer (Deputy Commissioner), Anantnag, Dr Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, Joint Director, DCO J&K, Arun Kumar, Assistant Director DCO J&K, Vijay Kumar; Additional Deputy Commissioner (District Census Officer), Vikas Ahlawat; ACR, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, DSEO (Additional District Census Officer), Charge Officers and other concerned officials associated with the Census exercise. In his remarks, the CPCO termed Census Data as the founding pillars of future development and prosperity, not only in Kashmir valley but the entire nation. Reviewing the progress, Sharma appreciated the preparedness of the Anantnag district and emphasized that Census is the country's largest administrative and statistical exercise, forming the basis for planning, resource allocation and socio-economic development for years to come. He termed Anantnag as on the oldest districts of J&K with pristine glory and famous tourist spots. Sharma stressed the importance of maintaining the highest standards of accuracy during data collection and directed enumerators and supervisors to ensure that every entry is recorded correctly and verified thoroughly. He cautioned that even minor errors or conceptual misunderstandings can adversely impact the quality of Census data and affect future policy planning. The CPCO directed Charge Officers to ensure that Supervisors undertake regular field inspections and conduct random quality checks instructed to intensify monitoring and ensure strict adherence to Census guidelines. He also emphasized verification of household information, coverage of migratory populations, forest areas and other special categories to ensure that no household or individual is left out of the enumeration process. The district being a peculiar destination for migratory and seasonal populations, special emphasis was laid on ensuring their comprehensive coverage during the ongoing Census exercise. Deputy Director General, Census, MHA, ORGI, Government of India held a direct interaction session with the present Enumerators and Supervisors, Charge Officers, etc to take first hand feedback which shall help in improvising the upcoming technology based second most important phase of Census, which is Population Enumeration (PE), in the coming months of September 2026 and February 2027. The Principal Census Officer assured full administrative support for the smooth conduct of Census operations and directed all concerned officers to closely monitor field activities to ensure timely completion of Census work, strictly in line with defined timelines and as per guidelines and Circular instructions issued from time to time. The Additional Deputy Commissioner (District Census Officer) briefed the CPCO on the district profile and the status of preparations for Census-2027. He informed that all House Listing Blocks (HLBs) have been successfully created and demarcated on the CMMS portal, while field operations are progressing smoothly across the district. He also apprised Chair in the meeting about the training imparted to enumerators and supervisors, self-enumeration progress, awareness campaigns undertaken through various IEC activities, and the monitoring mechanisms put in place to ensure quality data collection and comprehensive coverage of all households, including migratory populations. Sharma directed field functionaries to track migration routes and collect details of all eligible tribal population and individuals to ensure that no person is left out of the enumeration process. Highlighting the role of technology, Sharma said the digital mode of data collection would enhance efficiency and improve the quality of information gathered. The meeting also reviewed training activities, awareness campaigns, supervision mechanisms and field-level monitoring arrangements aimed at ensuring comprehensive and error-free Census operations across the district. Later, the CPCO briefed the media regarding the progress achieved under the ongoing House Listing Operations (HLO) of Census-2027 in the district and highlighted the extensive preparations undertaken to ensure smooth, accurate and timely completion of the exercise. He appealed to the public of both the UTs of J&K and Ladakh and especially residents of Anantnag district to fully co-operate with Census Enumnerators and provide accurate information, stating that reliable Census data serves as the foundation for informed governance, developmental planning and equitable distribution of resources.

KMCH Sempora organizes free mental health camp at Lasjan

Srinagar, Jun 15: Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH) Sempora on Monday organized a free mental health and psychiatric camp at Lasjan in Srinagar. The camp was organized by the Department of Psychiatry, KMCH. During the camp, senior consultants and resident doctors from the department examined and treated patients suffering from various psychiatric and psychological ailments. Patients attending the camp were provided free consultation and medicines. The doctors who attended the camp included Dr. Altaf Malla, Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry; Dr. Shazia Kouser, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry; Dr. Insha, Resident Doctor, Department of Psychiatry; and Dr. Mehreen Imran, Junior Resident, Department of Psychiatry. The camp was the second mental health programme organized by KMCH as part of its broader community healthcare initiative aimed at extending specialized medical services to underserved areas. Speaking on the occasion, the doctors emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment of mental health disorders. They highlighted that awareness and community support play a crucial role in addressing mental health challenges and reducing the stigma associated with seeking psychiatric care. The team also interacted with local residents and educated them about common mental health conditions, stress management, depression, anxiety disorders, and the need to seek professional help whenever required. The local residents and civil society appreciated the initiative and urged the institution to continue organizing such camps in different localities. The KMCH reiterated their commitment to promoting mental well-being and ensuring that quality mental healthcare services reach people at their doorsteps. They said more such outreach camps would be organized in the future to create awareness and improve access to mental health services across Kashmir.

CUK holds legal awareness program under NMBA

Ganderbal, Jun 15: Department of Law, School of Legal Studies, in collaboration with Dean Students' Welfare, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), organized a Legal Literacy Programme under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan at Hyderia High School, Tulmulla. The programme aimed to create legal awareness among students and educate them about various laws, their rights and duties, and the harmful effects of drug abuse. Students of BA LL.B. 8th Semester participated in the programme and delivered lectures on different legal topics. In his welcome address, Javed, Principal, Hyderia High School, appreciated the Department of Law for organizing such a programme and encouraging students to conduct outreach programmes, disseminating legal knowledge among school students. During the programme, Tanzeel highlighted various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and explained their significance in maintaining law and order. Bazila, discussed different provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and emphasized the legal consequences of drug-related offences. Ahmad Mujtaba elaborated on the penalties prescribed under the NDPS Act and explained the stringent punishments for drug trafficking and consumption. Other students, including Basit, Tamana Maan, and Sakita, gave presentations on legal topics such as the Motor Vehicles Act, the Right to Information (RTI) Act, and other laws of public importance. Programme Coordinator, Dr. Imran Ahad Bhat, Asst Prof. highlighted the objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and emphasized the importance of staying away from drugs and substance abuse. He encouraged students to contribute towards building a healthy, responsible, and drug-free society. He also proposed the vote of thanks.

DC Kargil inaugurates knee replacement camp

Kargil, Jun 15: AL-REZA HC & RF, the Health wing of Jamait Ul Ulema Isna Ashriya Kargil, started the Mega Total Knee Replacement Camp at QAAM Hospital Kurbathang Kargil. The Camp was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Rakesh Kumar who was the chief guest on the occasion, in presence of Renowned Knee Replacement Surgeon from Dubai, Dr Badar Azam Khan, WHO Representative Moses Chowdhary, Hojjat Ul Islam Sheikh Ali Mussa Irfani, member Ullema Council JUIAK, Chief Medical Officer Kargil Dr Mohd Abass and I/C Medical Superintendent, Dr Sajjad Hussain, doctors and Volunteers. The camp was organised by AL-REZA HC & RF in Collaboration with Department of Health Kargil. Dr Badar Azam Khan, famously known as Dr Knee, one of the finest Joint Replacement Surgeon of Dubai along with their team attended the camp. Dr. Khan has over 25 years of international experience in orthopaedics and joint replacement surgery and specializes in advanced robotic knee replacement procedures, customized implants and regenerative therapies for osteoarthritis. Around 70 patients with knee diseases were screened and 9 Total Knee Replacement surgeries performed on the first day of the camp till late night. Another 25 patients have been selected to undergo Total knee replacement on the 2nd and 3rd day of the camp on June 15 and 16, 2026. Addressing the gathering, DC Kargil highlighted the remarkable progress achieved in the health sector over the past twelve years. He further stated that after Ladakh attained Union Territory status, the health sector received an additional boost, resulting in the establishment of modern healthcare infrastructure, including the state-of-the-art Qamar Ali Akhone Memorial Hospital. He appreciated the efforts of AL-REZA Health Care and Research Foundation in facilitating specialized healthcare services for the people of Kargil. He noted that such initiatives help address the backlog in super-specialty treatments and bring advanced medical care closer to the people. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Azam Badar Khan expressed gratitude to the District Administration and AL-REZA Health Care and Research Foundation for providing him the opportunity to serve the people of Kargil. He stated that the camp aims not only to perform Total Knee Replacement surgeries but also to build local medical capacity by transferring knowledge and surgical expertise to doctors in Kargil. Through practical training and mentorship, he said, local doctors will gain the skills necessary to independently perform such procedures in the future, enabling the hospital to become self-sufficient in delivering advanced orthopaedic care. Dr. Khan also emphasized the importance of preventive care and knee health awareness. He informed that he is pursuing Knee Health Awareness Programmes in coordination with the World Health Organization and welcomed the participation of a WHO representative in the camp. The three-day camp is expected to benefit a large number of patients suffering from severe knee ailments while also contributing to the long-term development of specialized orthopaedic services in Kargil. High Skill anaesthesia/ epidural anaesthesia and were given to these patients by dedicated anaesthesia team in the camp headed by Dr Mohd Asif, Dr Abass Ali and Dr Shaziya. President AL-REZA HC &RF DR Mohd Abass and Dr Fatima Nissa, senior executive member of AL-REZA also spoke on the occasion and thanked the visiting Doctors for sparing their precious hectic schedule in Dubai and travelling such a long distance only to help and treat the poor patients of this far-flung region. They also thanked the DC Kargil, District administration, CMO, Medical Superintendent and RMO District Hospital Kargil, for their tireless support. They also appreciated the tireless efforts of doctors in uplifting the District Hospital Kargil as a centre of excellence. They also appreciated the anaesthetists and surgeons for doing surgeries till late night in the camp, besides all O.T staffs, volunteers of AL-REZA and media personnel for their tireless support in managing the camp, helping the patients and for their 24 hours services for the patients in the camp. People from all corners of Kargil appreciated the efforts of AL-REZA HC & RF for bringing renowned doctors at their doorstep for the poor patients in performing complex surgeries at Kargil.

SANJY 2026 : Div Com Kashmir reviews yatra arrangements at Baltal

Ganderbal, Jun 15: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg on Monday visited Baltal and conducted an extensive inspection of the arrangements being put in place for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2026. During the visit, he reviewed the progress of various developmental and preparatory works aimed at ensuring a safe, smooth and comfortable pilgrimage experience for devotees. Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore; Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal, Sudhanshu Dhama and officers of various departments, Garg inspected the Yatri Niwas, RFID registration counters, dormitory facilities, facilities in Baltal base camp as well as the pony stand. He took stock of the facilities being put in place for pilgrims and interacted with officers and field functionaries regarding the status of ongoing works. During the inspection, the Divisional Commissioner directed the concerned departments to ensure timely installation of signages, information boards and public awareness banners at all key locations to facilitate better guidance and accessibility for pilgrims. He also emphasized proper sanitation management, queue regulation, traffic arrangements and availability of essential services across the Yatra route. Later, he chaired a high-level review meeting at Baltal to assess the preparedness of all stakeholder departments for the annual pilgrimage. At the outset, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, gave a detailed presentation on the overall preparedness for the Yatra and briefed the meeting about infrastructure development, accommodation facilities, registration arrangements, disaster management preparedness and departmental works across various departments. Reviewing the arrangements department-wise, the Divisional Commissioner directed all concerned agencies to complete the remaining works by June 20th and ensure full operational readiness before commencement of the Yatra. He stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among departments and directed that officers remain available round the clock for prompt response and coordination. The Health Department informed that medical aid centres along the track would be made fully functional by June 28, while oxygen booths would be established by June 25. The department also apprised that advance medical teams have already been deployed and adequate emergency response arrangements have been put in place. The Divisional Commissioner reviewed the status of sanitation, water supply, power supply, telecommunication facilities, disaster management, transportation and fire safety arrangements. He directed the Rural Development Department to maintain sanitation in toilet facilities, while Jal Shakti and KPDCL were instructed to ensure uninterrupted water and power supply with adequate backup arrangements. The meeting was informed that registration of service providers is underway and identity cards shall be issued within the stipulated timeline. Telecom agencies reported that communication infrastructure has been established and are operational. The meeting was attended by officers from Sonamarg Development Authority, Rural Development, Health, Jal Shakti, KPDCL, Forest, Tourism, Fire & Emergency Services, Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Disaster Management, Police, BRO, BSNL, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board and other concerned departments.

Chief Secretary administers oath of office to JKWRRA Chairperson

Srinagar, Jun 15: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo on Monday administered the Oath of Office to Suresh Kumar Gupta, who has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources Regulatory Authority (JKWRRA). The oath ceremony was held at the Civil Secretariat and was attended by senior officers of the Government and officials associated with the water resources sector. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Secretary extended his congratulations to Shri Gupta and expressed confidence that his rich administrative experience and deep understanding of natural resource management would further strengthen the Authoritys efforts towards ensuring sustainable, equitable and efficient management of water resources across the Union Territory. The Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources Regulatory Authority is a statutory body mandated to regulate and oversee the development, management and conservation of water resources in the Union Territory. The Authority plays a crucial role in promoting integrated water resource management, safeguarding water security and advising the Government on policies and strategies for sustainable utilization of this vital resource. Gupta was appointed as Chairperson of the JKWRRA by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir vide Notification S.O. 164 dated June 9, 2026, issued under Section 139 of the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2010. His appointment came into effect upon assumption of charge. A distinguished officer of the 1991 batch of the Indian Forest Service (IFS), Suresh Kumar Gupta brings with him more than three decades of experience in public administration, environmental governance, forest management and natural resource conservation. During his illustrious career, he served in several key positions in Jammu and Kashmir, including Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF), the highest professional position in the Forest Department. He has also held important assignments as Principal Secretary, Culture, Tribal Affairs and School Education Departments besides serving as Chairman J&K Biodiversity Council, Chief Wildlife Warden; Director, Social Forestry, Director Forest Protection Force, Director J&K Forest Research Institute and Managing Director, Jammu and Kashmir Forest Development Corporation (JKFDC). His extensive experience in environmental stewardship, watershed conservation and sustainable resource management is expected to greatly benefit the functioning of the Water Resources Regulatory Authority. On assuming office, Gupta expressed his gratitude to the Government for reposing confidence in him and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening water governance mechanisms, promoting sustainable water use and ensuring effective regulation of the Union Territorys precious water resources in the larger public interest.

19 House, Landowners Booked for Tenant Verification Violations in Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered 19 FIRs against house and land owners in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir for allegedly failing to comply with mandatory tenant verification norms, officials said on Monday. The cases were registered at Samba and Bari Brahmana police stations during a special verification drive launched to strengthen security []

Drugs In Teens Part 2 : Excessive social media, internet, isolation fuel drug abuse among Kashmiri students

Srinagar, Jun 15: Excessive social media exposure, unchecked internet influence and isolation have emerged as major triggers behind the growing drug and substance abuse among school students in Kashmir, an empirical research study submittedtoDistrict Institute of Education and Training (DIET) Srinagar has revealed. The action research project, conducted by Dr Sameena Wani, presently Principal of Government Girls Higher Secondary School Kothibagh, Srinagar, highlights how changing social behaviour among adolescents, shaped increasingly by digital platforms and weakening social values, is pushing many young people towards substance abuse. According to the study, titled Drug and Substance Abuse in Secondary and Higher Secondary School Students of district Srinagar An Empirical Study for Prevention andIntervention,the internet and social media have significantly altered the emotional and psychological environment of adolescents in Kashmir, particularly after prolonged lockdowns and social isolation. According to the research accessed by Rising Kashmir, the rapid penetration of social media intothe lives of young students,coupled with declining parental engagement and weakening traditional value systems, has created fertile ground for drug abuse and other harmful behaviours. The study warns that Kashmirs younger generation is increasingly vulnerable to online influence, emotional distress and social alienation, making early intervention and counselling more important than ever before. Dr Wanis research stresses that the growing addiction crisis cannot be tackled through enforcement alone and requires collective efforts involving schools, parents, healthcare professionals and community institutions. The study describes schools as crucial spaces for prevention and rehabilitation where teachers can identify vulnerable students, spread awareness and help cultivate emotional resilience and ethical values among adolescents. It further underlines the importance of confidentiality and compassionate support for students dealing with substance abuse problems, while cautioning against social stigma and isolation. Calling for urgent societal action, the study urges communities to rebuild Kashmirs traditional foundations of brotherhood, wisdom, tolerance and moral responsibility to protect future generations from falling deeper into addiction, crime and hopelessness. While schools cannot solve every social problem, they can play a transformative role in fighting ignorance, promoting awareness and guiding students away from destructive influences emerging from both social realities and the digital world, the study reads.