Awantipora, Oct 20: Police district Awantipora Tuesday organised cyber awareness programmes at Awantipora and Khrew to sensitise participants about cybercrime, online frauds, digital safety and the responsible use of social media. During the programmes, participants were educated about common cyber threats, phishing scams, online financial frauds, the importance of safeguarding personal information and precautionary measures to be adopted while using digital platforms. As per the official handout, participants were also encouraged to report cybercrime incidents promptly through appropriate channels. The programmes aimed to enhance public awareness about emerging cyber threats and promote safe and responsible digital practices among citizens. Awantipora Police reiterated its commitment to public outreach, cyber safety and creating a secure digital environment for the community.
Dushanbe, Oct 20: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday called upon Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states to work collectively to dismantle the entire ecosystem of terrorism. He said there could be no justification for the menace and no double standards in dealing with those who finance, support or provide safe havens to terrorists. Addressing the 25th meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Singh described terrorism as one of the gravest threats to peace and development, saying it claims innocent lives, disrupts investment and commerce, fuels radicalisation and deprives young people of opportunities. âThere can be no justification for terrorism, no double standards in addressing it, and no place for those who finance, support, or provide safe havens to terrorists,â he said. Referring to the deliberations at the SCO Summit in Bishkek in August-September, Singh recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs emphasis on concrete action by the organisation on security, connectivity and economic opportunities. He said India supported inclusive and mutually beneficial economic engagement among member states, stressing that the SCO must adhere to sovereign equality, consensus and mutual respect. Singh said the creation of additional institutions would not necessarily translate into better outcomes, arguing that new mechanisms should address clearly identified needs, avoid duplication and deliver practical benefits to member countries. Highlighting the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, trade and supply-chain disruptions, energy and food security concerns and technological divides, the Defence Minister called for stronger cooperation to facilitate trade and investment, build resilient supply chains and use technology to drive development. He reaffirmed India's support for adopting an action plan for the Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation Programme for 2026-2030, emphasising that the benefits of economic cooperation must reach all sections of society. Singh also welcomed the decisions taken at the Bishkek summit to establish the Universal Centre in Tashkent and the Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe as permanent SCO bodies. Their effectiveness, he said, would depend on efficient coordination and timely implementation. On regional connectivity, Singh said India supported initiatives aimed at linking markets, facilitating trade and opening new avenues for development. He cited the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chabahar Port as important avenues for connecting Central Asia with wider markets. He however stressed that connectivity projects must be based on consultation and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, warning that initiatives lacking these principles would not be sustainable. He also called for moving beyond physical infrastructure by simplifying customs procedures, promoting digital documentation, improving logistics and adopting interoperable digital solutions to reduce the cost of doing business across the region. The Defence Minister highlighted a symposium on financing infrastructure projects in Central Asia held in Mumbai earlier this month and thanked Central Asian countries and SCO partners for their participation. He also acknowledged the organisation of the first SCO Asian Economic Dialogue. Emphasising the need to measure cooperation through tangible benefits, Singh said the SCO's success should be judged by the opportunities it creates for youth, markets opened for entrepreneurs, technologies made accessible to farmers and small businesses, and connections fostered among societies. He cited India's Digital Public Infrastructure as an example of technology-driven development, saying it had transformed public service delivery and strengthened financial inclusion. He also highlighted India's start-up ecosystem and its focus on women-led development. Singh said India's initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, contributed to affordable clean energy and climate-resilient development. He also referred to Mission LiFE, which promotes sustainable lifestyles and responsible consumption, and the Global Biofuel Alliance, aimed at advancing cleaner energy solutions. Calling upon the SCO to build on its 25-year foundation, Singh urged member states to pursue a forward-looking roadmap centred on consensus-driven cooperation and tangible outcomes. He reaffirmed India's commitment to working with all member countries and invited them to participate in the first SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum, to be hosted by India later this year. The meeting reviewed progress in multilateral economic and trade cooperation and discussed ways to strengthen collaboration in transport, finance, the digital economy and social development. The heads of delegation adopted a joint communiquĂ© covering the meeting's outcomes, the SCO budget for 2027, relevant financial and administrative decisions, and the action plan for the Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation Programme for 2026-2030. The SCO Council of Heads of Government is a key mechanism for promoting economic and other forms of practical cooperation among member states. India has been a full member of the organisation since 2017.
Srinagar, Oct 19: Managing Director of Jay Kay Books, Kashmir, and Kitab Mahal Publishers Sheikh Bashir Ahmad has become the first publisher from Jammu and Kashmir to receive the prestigious Golden Award 2026 of the Federation of Publishersâ and Booksellersâ Associations in India (FPBAI). The award was presented at the federationâs 72nd Annual General Meeting held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi on October 3, in recognition of Ahmadâs longstanding contribution to publishing and his efforts to preserve and promote literature, culture and knowledge. The award was presented by S. K. Ghai, President and Chairman of the FPBAI Award Committee, and Arunjeet Singh Gujral, Vice-President (North) of the federation. Vikas Chowdhary, Honorary Secretary of FPBAI, read out the citation highlighting Ahmadâs contribution to the publishing industry. Describing him as the torchbearer of a six-generation publishing legacy, the citation acknowledged the role of Jay Kay Books in bringing out a wide range of publications covering history, culture, heritage, literature, Sufism, geography, and Indian and Western philosophy. Ahmadâs efforts to ensure continued access to books during the COVID-19 pandemic were also recognised. When conventional access to reading material was severely disrupted, his organisation made e-text modules available free of cost to readers and learners. The initiative was later supplemented by home-delivery services to facilitate access to books. The publishing tradition associated with Ahmadâs family dates back several generations. His ancestor, Sheikh Muhammad Ibrahim, introduced rare Persian manuscripts from Central Asia to Kashmir through a publishing agency based in Lahore. The legacy was subsequently expanded by Sheikh Abdul Ghaffar, who established a publishing outlet at Chattabal in Srinagar. Sheikh Ghulam Muhammad later developed the venture into a full-fledged publishing house at Maharaj Gunj. Continuing the familyâs publishing tradition through Jay Kay Books, Ahmad has worked to promote reading, encourage emerging writers and make important books and manuscripts accessible to scholars, students and general readers. The recognition marks a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmirâs publishing sector, acknowledging Ahmadâs contribution to the book trade as well as his efforts to safeguard the regionâs literary and intellectual heritage.
Srinagar, Oct 18: The class 10 annual regular (2026) examinations will commence from Monday (October 19) across Kashmir and Jammu winter zones as well. The examination will be conducted by the JK Board of School Education (BOSE). As per the official figures, around 97500 students including 72232 students in Kashmir and 25268 students in Jammu winter zones have registered for the JKBOSE exams. For this, JKBOSE has set up 1003 exam centres which include 687 in Kashmir and 316 in winter zone areas of Jammu. Chairman J&K Board of School Education (JKBOSE) Ghulam Hassan Sheikh has already informed the students not to feel stressed over the upcoming board examinations, saying the papers would be normal but analytical and competency-based in line with the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020. He said class 11 and 12 students were already familiar with the Board examination system, while Class 10 students appearing for the board exams for the first time should remain patient and confident. He also appealed to parents not to put undue pressure on children to score 100 per cent marks, saying excessive expectations could adversely affect the mental well-being of the children. He further said the question papers would follow the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 framework, with an emphasis on analytical thinking and competency-based assessment rather than rote memorisation. "The examination pattern is intended to assess how well students have understood and grasped concepts, rather than merely their ability to memorise information. But students should not to feel intimidated by the examination process," he added. Minister for education, Sakina Itoo extended her best wishes to the students appearing in upcoming JKBOSE class 10th, 11th and 12th examination. "As the annual board examinations approach, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all students appearing in the Class 10th, 11th and 12th examinations conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE)," Itoo in her message said. She said JKBOSE has completed the necessary preparations to ensure the smooth and orderly conduct of the examinations. "Dear students, this is the time to demonstrate your hard work, dedication and perseverance. Stay confident, manage your time wisely and approach every examination with a calm and positive mindset. Believe in your abilities and give your best," she said. The minister said that examinations were an important milestone in the academic journey of the students and every effort they make contributes to their growth and future success. "I also appeal to parents to support their children with patience, understanding and encouragement. Avoid unnecessary pressure and provide a peaceful and reassuring environment that safeguards their physical and mental well-being," she said. "Stay focused, stay confident and let your hard work shine. May you achieve success and move forward towards a bright future" Education minister said to ensure transparency and timely redressal of examination-related grievances, JKBOSE has constituted a Grievance-cum-Monitoring Cell. Students, parents and other stakeholders may contact the designated offices for assistance. For Jammu division, people can email their grievances at [jsexamsjd.jkbose@jk.gov.in](mailto:jsexamsjd.jkbose@jk.gov.in) and Phone: 0191-2585732. For Kashmir Division people can email their grievances at [jsexamskd.jkbose@jk.gov.in](mailto:jsexamskd.jkbose@jk.gov.in) and contact 0194-3186762 The Minister urged all the centre superintendents and examination staff to ensure that the examinations are conducted in a fair, transparent, disciplined and impartial manner, upholding the sanctity and integrity of the examination system. "My very best wishes to all 2.7 lakh students. Stay focused, stay confident and let your hard work shine. May you achieve success and move forward towards a bright future," she added. "Exam warriors, shed your worries, stay confident and focused. Believe in yourself and give your best" Commissioner Secretary School Education Department (SED) Ram Niwas Sharma in his message has extended best wishes to the class 10, 11th and 12th students appearing in upcoming JKBOSE exams. "Exam warriors, shed your worries, stay confident and focused. Believe in yourself and give your best. Best wishes to all," Sharma in a message said. He also asked the Chief Education Officers (CEOs) and Complex Heads to ensure a congenial and supportive environment for students during the examination period. "Students' success remains the top priority. Effective counselling and all possible assistance must be given to students to help them overcome examination-related stress and perform to the best of their abilities," he said. He said educational authorities must extend necessary support to students and ensure that they can appear in the examinations in a positive and stress-free atmosphere. As per the already notified date sheet, the examination of class 11th students will commence from October 29 and will culminate on November 30 of 2026. Also, the annual regular (2026) examination of class 12th students will commence from October 21 and will culminate in November 21 of 2026.
Awantipora, Oct 20: Police district Awantipora Tuesday organised cyber awareness programmes at Awantipora and Khrew to sensitise participants about cybercrime, online frauds, digital safety and the responsible use of social media. During the programmes, participants were educated about common cyber threats, phishing scams, online financial frauds, the importance of safeguarding personal information and precautionary measures to be adopted while using digital platforms. As per the official handout, participants were also encouraged to report cybercrime incidents promptly through appropriate channels. The programmes aimed to enhance public awareness about emerging cyber threats and promote safe and responsible digital practices among citizens. Awantipora Police reiterated its commitment to public outreach, cyber safety and creating a secure digital environment for the community.
Ganderbal, Oct 15: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the government was preparing a project to strengthen tourism infrastructure in Sonamarg and introduce adventure and winter sports activities to attract visitors throughout the year. During his visit to Ganderbal, the Chief Minister said the opening of the Z-Morh tunnel had changed Sonamarg's tourism prospects by making the destination accessible during winter, creating opportunities for year-round tourism. âEarlier, Sonamarg would remain closed during winters and people could not reach there. There was little scope for developing winter tourism infrastructure. Now that the tunnel has been built and Sonamarg is accessible throughout the year, we are preparing a project for its development,â he said. CM Omar said the government was looking at introducing rafting during summer and skiing and skating during winter to make Sonamarg a major destination for adventure tourism. He said efforts would be made in coordination with local MLA Mehar Ali to develop new tourist attractions and improve facilities for visitors. Referring to the proposed development of Tragbal and Mohanmarg as tourist destinations, the Chief Minister said the projects had earlier received approval and funds had also been released. However, he said the projects could not move forward because of delays in obtaining necessary clearances and were subsequently cancelled. âSometimes we face difficulties in getting forest, environmental and wildlife clearances. But we will follow the required procedures and work towards developing new tourist destinations,â he said. The Chief Minister also spoke about development works in Ganderbal, saying projects worth nearly Rs 60 crore had been inaugurated or taken up, including a major bridge across the Jhelum costing around Rs 40 crore. He said work on the bridge was progressing and the government was targeting completion by December next year. Omar said road projects, a new school building and infrastructure at the fruit and vegetable market had also been taken up. He said traders at the fruit market had raised demands for expansion and construction of a grade separator, which would be discussed with the National Highways Authority of India. On concerns over deaths in the power canal in Ganderbal, Omar said the government would approach the Power Development Corporation to seek funds for fencing along the canal. He also acknowledged traffic congestion and other infrastructure problems in the district, saying development needs and environmental protection would have to be balanced. The Chief Minister said the government remained committed to addressing public concerns and carrying forward development projects across Ganderbal. (KNS)
Srinagar, Sep 20: The 5th edition of the Green Valley Model United Nations (GVMUN) concluded at Green Valley Educational Institute (GVEI) after three days of intensive debate, diplomatic deliberations and discussions on pressing global issues. More than 200 delegates from schools across the Valley participated in the three-day event. The conference was jointly inaugurated by advisor to J&K CM Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Hazratbal Salman Ali Sagar. The valedictory ceremony was attended by social activist Roma Wani as the chief guest and was accompanied by Chairman GVEI, Mohammad Yousuf Wani, Director GVEI Prof. (Dr) Fayaz Ahmad Nika, Principal GVEI, Reyaz Ahmad Kathjoo, faculty members, delegates, staff and students. The three-day conference featured six committees, with delegates taking on the roles of diplomats, policymakers and international representatives to deliberate on complex issues including the Gulf Crisis, international shipping and energy security, and global drug policies. The conference showcased not only public speaking and debating skills but also the ability to develop well-researched policy implications and practical diplomatic solutions, with award-winning papers reflecting diverse approaches to some of the most challenging international questions. Discussions on global drug policies moved beyond conventional debates on prohibition and enforcement, with one position paper advocating a dual-pillar approach combining universal public health, harm reduction and treatment with targeted intervention against transnational criminal networks. The other committees namely Historical Crisis Committee, UNWC, UNSC witnessed thought provoking debates. The Director GVEI Prof. (Dr) Fayaz Ahmad Nikka welcomed the guests and talked about the efforts of this institution in providing the best possible education to its students. The Chief Guest, Roma Wani personally visited the various houses during the last session and interacted with the delegates. She enquired from the delegates about how their interactions and debates can bring changes in the real world. "It is important to take some life lessons from these debates and discussions," she said. While addressing the delegates she said such conferences are very important in nurturing our future generation. "I appreciate the intellect, energy and grit of our students. Our future seems to be in secure hands.â She added. She further said that youth has a greater responsibility to discuss, debate and help in creating a drug free society. The highlight of the valedictory ceremony was the felicitation and prize distribution, where outstanding delegates were recognized for their performance across the various committees, with awards acknowledging excellence in research, diplomacy, articulation, negotiation and committee participation. The vote of thanks was proposed by the Principal GVEI Riyaz Ahmad Kathjoo who expressed gratitude to the chief guest, delegates, other dignitaries and also acknowledged the efforts of the GVMUN Core Team, Executive Board, organising committee, faculty coordinators and participating schools, whose collective efforts contributed to the successful conduct of the conference. The students also presented some cultural performances during the event.
Baramulla, Sep 20: A day-long Science outreach programme was organised by the IQAC and UGC & Research committee in collaboration with Science Department of Government Degree College (GDC) Sopore. As pe the handout issued here, the programme was organised under the supervision of Principal GDC Sopore Prof. (Dr.) Syed Muzaffar Ahmad. The event was organised for higher Secondary School Students of Sopore with the objective of strengthening scientific awareness, encouraging curiosity and inquiry among students, and providing participants with meaningful exposure to science through interaction, inspiration and departmental learning activities. The programme combined formal addresses, inspirational talks besides practical and academic departmental visits. It was followed by feedback and the distribution of participation certificates. Around 56 students from Government Boys Higher Secondary School and Government Girls Higher Secondary School Sopore participated in the event. The programme commenced with the introduction of the Science Outreach Programme by moderator Dr. Nowsheen Hameed, Assistant Professor Department of Biotechnology. Dr. Javeed Ahmad Sheikh Coordinator, IQAC delivered the Welcome Address and welcomed the participants and highlighted the objectives of the outreach programme. Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Syed Muzaffar Ahmad, delivered the Presidential Address in which he provided institutional context to the outreach initiative and emphasised the importance of scientific awareness, academic engagement and meaningful learning opportunities for students. He also encouraged the participants to make constructive use of the opportunities provided through the programme. Invited resource persons delivered inspirational talks and shared real-life experiences. This segment was designed to connect scientific learning with practical experiences and to motivate students to develop curiosity, perseverance and an interest in science. Interaction with resource persons provided participants with an opportunity to appreciate the role of scientific knowledge and learning beyond the classroom. The first resource person Zeeshan, a neuroscience researcher at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), shared his academic and research journey with the students. The second resource person, Dr. Adil Majeed Rather, DST INSPIRE Faculty, NIT Srinagar, shared his personal academic journey and experiences in research, inspiring students to pursue their aspirations with determination and perseverance. The third resource person, Dr. Rahila Nazir, a researcher with postdoctoral research experience at reputed institutions in India and the United States delivered an inspiring message to the students about the importance of ambition, perseverance and self-belief. The fourth resource person, Dr. Javeed Rasool, Postdoctoral Research Associate at Boston University, USA emphasised that academic marks alone do not determine success in life.
Jammu, Mar 8: The Jammu and Kashmir Congress protested against the LPG price hike here on Sunday, saying this "anti-poor" decision by the government will add to the financial burden on the common man. Led by PCC president Tariq Hamid Karra and working president Raman Bhalla, the protesters also criticised the Indo-US trade deal, alleging that it will adversely impact the country's economy, according to a party spokesperson. The protesters gathered in Model Town, Digiana, near here, raised slogans against the ruling BJP and criticised what they described as the government's "surrender" in the Indo-US trade negotiations. The price of domestic cooking gas LPG was hiked on Saturday by a steep Rs 60 per cylinder, the second increase in less than a year, as the spike in global energy rates following the West Asia crisis weighed on the world's third largest energy consumer. Non-subsidised LPG -- the one that common households use in kitchens -- will now cost Rs 913 per 14.2 kg cylinder in Delhi as against Rs 853 previously, according to the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) website. The protesters said the continued rise in the prices of essential commodities, particularly cooking gas, has added to the financial burden on ordinary households. Addressing the protesters, Karra termed the LPG price hike "cruel". Many rural households still do not have access to piped gas supply and rely entirely on LPG cylinders. This will force them to plan their monthly budgets more carefully, he said. He demanded an immediate rollback of the price hike. The Congress leader described the Indo-US trade deal as a "major blow" to the country's economic interests. Instead of safeguarding the nation's economic and strategic priorities, the Centre "bowed to pressure" from the United States, he charged. He also expressed concern over the possible implications of the trade deal on India's agriculture and dairy sectors, and claimed that orchardists and dairy farmers in Jammu and Kashmir will be severely affected if safeguards are not put in place. "Our apple growers, walnut producers and small dairy farmers could face serious challenges if cheap imports enter the market without minimum support guarantees," Karra said. He demanded that the government present a white paper on the trade deal in Parliament. PCC working president Bhalla also strongly condemned the "unprecedented" hike in LPG prices and said poor and middle-class families will be badly affected by this decision of the Union government. He called for an LPG relief package for families belonging to the BPL (below poverty line) category, along with a special subsidy buffer for Jammu and Kashmir, citing the higher transportation and logistics costs in hilly regions. (PTI)
Srinagar, Jan 15: After the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE) declared the result of the class 10th and 12th annual (regular) examinations, the whole focus shifted to the achievers, particularly the toppers. Amidst the appreciation and celebrations for the successful candidates, a stark reality has emerged in society that none of the stakeholders talk about those students who could not pass the examination. This emerging trend has become dangerous for the young students particularly the average performers or those who do not pass the exam in their first attempt. Amid this, a government school teacher has put forth a clear message for the parents of those children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams. Aasima Jan, a government school teacher from Baramulla district said that expectations of the parents should not make the students victim of depression. She believes that the parents must stand by their children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams or qualified it with average grades. After the announcement of the results, some students qualified the exams with good marks in class 10th and 12th exams while qualified with average grades while some could not qualify the exams. "Those parents whose children either took less marks or could not qualify for the exam, must be a little upset with their children. As a parent, it is natural to feel disappointed when your child does not come up to your expectations," Aasima Jan said. She however said that the high expectations of parents should not make the child a victim of depression. "Class 10th exam is just a first step in the educational journey of these children. This is not the end of life. Life will provide more opportunities, with more chances and more ways to excel," Aasima Jan said. She said the parents must support their child at this time deal with this setback. "If parents support their child at this time, their kids will bounce back more stronger in future. Parents must tell their children that failures are not opposite to success but are actually part of success," she said. She said there were many people who did not qualify normal exams but proved their worth in life after facing setbacks. "Parents must put in their efforts. Embrace their child, support them instead of letting them down," she said. As the JKBOSE declared the result of class 10th and 12th class examination, the stakeholders and society at large pour praise and attention on the top performers while there was a deafening silence surrounding those who do not pass the examination. The move raised a serious concern, particularly about the way children are being brought up. It raised big question that: âAre we preparing our students to be strong enough to cope with the failure?â
Awantipora, Oct 20: Police district Awantipora Tuesday organised cyber awareness programmes at Awantipora and Khrew to sensitise participants about cybercrime, online frauds, digital safety and the responsible use of social media. During the programmes, participants were educated about common cyber threats, phishing scams, online financial frauds, the importance of safeguarding personal information and precautionary measures to be adopted while using digital platforms. As per the official handout, participants were also encouraged to report cybercrime incidents promptly through appropriate channels. The programmes aimed to enhance public awareness about emerging cyber threats and promote safe and responsible digital practices among citizens. Awantipora Police reiterated its commitment to public outreach, cyber safety and creating a secure digital environment for the community.
Srinagar, Oct 19: Managing Director of Jay Kay Books, Kashmir, and Kitab Mahal Publishers Sheikh Bashir Ahmad has become the first publisher from Jammu and Kashmir to receive the prestigious Golden Award 2026 of the Federation of Publishersâ and Booksellersâ Associations in India (FPBAI). The award was presented at the federationâs 72nd Annual General Meeting held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi on October 3, in recognition of Ahmadâs longstanding contribution to publishing and his efforts to preserve and promote literature, culture and knowledge. The award was presented by S. K. Ghai, President and Chairman of the FPBAI Award Committee, and Arunjeet Singh Gujral, Vice-President (North) of the federation. Vikas Chowdhary, Honorary Secretary of FPBAI, read out the citation highlighting Ahmadâs contribution to the publishing industry. Describing him as the torchbearer of a six-generation publishing legacy, the citation acknowledged the role of Jay Kay Books in bringing out a wide range of publications covering history, culture, heritage, literature, Sufism, geography, and Indian and Western philosophy. Ahmadâs efforts to ensure continued access to books during the COVID-19 pandemic were also recognised. When conventional access to reading material was severely disrupted, his organisation made e-text modules available free of cost to readers and learners. The initiative was later supplemented by home-delivery services to facilitate access to books. The publishing tradition associated with Ahmadâs family dates back several generations. His ancestor, Sheikh Muhammad Ibrahim, introduced rare Persian manuscripts from Central Asia to Kashmir through a publishing agency based in Lahore. The legacy was subsequently expanded by Sheikh Abdul Ghaffar, who established a publishing outlet at Chattabal in Srinagar. Sheikh Ghulam Muhammad later developed the venture into a full-fledged publishing house at Maharaj Gunj. Continuing the familyâs publishing tradition through Jay Kay Books, Ahmad has worked to promote reading, encourage emerging writers and make important books and manuscripts accessible to scholars, students and general readers. The recognition marks a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmirâs publishing sector, acknowledging Ahmadâs contribution to the book trade as well as his efforts to safeguard the regionâs literary and intellectual heritage.
Srinagar, Oct 15:Â Bandipora Deputy Commissioner Indu Chhib on Thursday said a probe has been ordered against a doctor in connection with the death of a pregnant woman from the remote Gurez valley, and assured strict action against those found responsible. Addressing a press conference, Indu Chhib said the administration has ordered an inquiry against the doctor. Strict action will be taken against whoever is found responsible, she told reporters. She said compensation had been provided to the bereaved family through the Red Cross. The woman died while being shifted to the District Hospital in Bandipora early Wednesday, while her baby was stillborn. Her family has alleged that snowfall and restrictions on night-time movement delayed her emergency referral. The incident has triggered anger in the remote Gurez valley, with locals demanding accountability over the alleged delay in medical evacuation.
Ganderbal, Oct 15: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the government was preparing a project to strengthen tourism infrastructure in Sonamarg and introduce adventure and winter sports activities to attract visitors throughout the year. During his visit to Ganderbal, the Chief Minister said the opening of the Z-Morh tunnel had changed Sonamarg's tourism prospects by making the destination accessible during winter, creating opportunities for year-round tourism. âEarlier, Sonamarg would remain closed during winters and people could not reach there. There was little scope for developing winter tourism infrastructure. Now that the tunnel has been built and Sonamarg is accessible throughout the year, we are preparing a project for its development,â he said. CM Omar said the government was looking at introducing rafting during summer and skiing and skating during winter to make Sonamarg a major destination for adventure tourism. He said efforts would be made in coordination with local MLA Mehar Ali to develop new tourist attractions and improve facilities for visitors. Referring to the proposed development of Tragbal and Mohanmarg as tourist destinations, the Chief Minister said the projects had earlier received approval and funds had also been released. However, he said the projects could not move forward because of delays in obtaining necessary clearances and were subsequently cancelled. âSometimes we face difficulties in getting forest, environmental and wildlife clearances. But we will follow the required procedures and work towards developing new tourist destinations,â he said. The Chief Minister also spoke about development works in Ganderbal, saying projects worth nearly Rs 60 crore had been inaugurated or taken up, including a major bridge across the Jhelum costing around Rs 40 crore. He said work on the bridge was progressing and the government was targeting completion by December next year. Omar said road projects, a new school building and infrastructure at the fruit and vegetable market had also been taken up. He said traders at the fruit market had raised demands for expansion and construction of a grade separator, which would be discussed with the National Highways Authority of India. On concerns over deaths in the power canal in Ganderbal, Omar said the government would approach the Power Development Corporation to seek funds for fencing along the canal. He also acknowledged traffic congestion and other infrastructure problems in the district, saying development needs and environmental protection would have to be balanced. The Chief Minister said the government remained committed to addressing public concerns and carrying forward development projects across Ganderbal. (KNS)
New Delhi, May 12: A massive protest organised by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) broke out near the Shastri Bhawan on Tuesday, against the alleged paper leak in NEET-UG this year. The exam was held on May 3, following which allegations of paper leak surfaced, triggering investigations by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) and central agencies. Earlier, the National Testing Agency (NTA) announced the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026, and said the examination will be re-conducted on dates to be notified separately. In a statement, the NTA said the decision was taken with the approval of the Government of India in the interest of maintaining transparency and preserving trust in the national examination system.
