Srinagar, September 9:Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, on Wednesday chaired a meeting to review and resolve issues hampering the smooth implementation of the Medicity project in Srinagar.

 Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, along with senior officers from the Srinagar Development Authority (SDA), Roads & Buildings (R&B) Department, SIDCO, Industries & Commerce Department and Project Coordinator Sajad Nazir Shah, attended the meeting.

 The meeting focused on the demarcation of land earmarked for the Medicity project and the provision of a 15-metre Right of Way (RoW)/buffer area between the new Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court complex and the Medicity site.

 Taking note of the concerns raised by the concerned departments and the executing agency, the Divisional Commissioner directed the officers to conduct a joint inspection of the site to resolve the issue of land demarcation.

 He further instructed that revenue officers from the concerned departments be associated with the demarcation process to ensure that the land is identified and demarcated strictly in accordance with the approved Medicity plan of 2021.

 Anshul Garg also emphasized the need to ensure the requisite Right of Way for the Medicity project, stating that all necessary measures should be taken to facilitate its smooth implementation and prevent further impediments.

 Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo assured full support from the district administration in facilitating the early resolution of the issues.

 Earlier, Project Coordinator Sajad Nazir Shah briefed the meeting about the approved Medicity plan and the proposed Right of Way requirements.

New Delhi [India], September 9 : India stepped up its humanitarian assistance to flood-hit Nepal, with the eighth Indian Air Force aircraft carrying 35 tonnes of relief and rescue supplies departing for Kathmandu on Wednesday.

 According to a post on X by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the latest consignment includes National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) equipment, rescue gear, forensic supplies and replenishment supplies for Indian Army teams involved in the ongoing relief and rescue efforts.

 "The 8th IAF aircraft carrying 35 tonnes of relief and rescue supplies, including NDRF equipment, rescue gear, forensic supplies and Army team replenishment supplies, has departed for Kathmandu," the post read.

 India's assistance comes as rescue operations continue in areas affected by flash floods in Nepal, including at the Chilime tunnel in Rasuwa, where an Indian team is working alongside the Nepal Army in search and rescue operations.

 According to Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), 13,646 people have been rescued so far in the flood-hit areas, while around 5,132 people remain missing.

 As of September 9, the authorities reported 1,367 human casualties, with bodies recovered from Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Gorkha, Tanahun, Chitwan, Nawalparasi East and Nawalparasi West.

 The authorities said 102 bodies have been handed over, while samples for DNA testing can be submitted at the concerned District Police Office along with two photographs and proof of kinship.

 Among those reported missing are around 2,860 people from Rasuwa and 1,787 from Nuwakot. The missing include Nepali Army personnel, Nepal Police and Armed Police Force personnel, government employees, bank and financial institution employees, as well as foreign tourists.

 Relief and rescue operations have also continued through air missions. The Nepali Army conducted 21 helicopter flights on September 9, bringing its total number of flights to 1,264 as of September 8. The Armed Police Force has conducted 258 flights.

 A total of 329 injured people are currently receiving medical treatment at 10 different hospitals, with 252 having been discharged. The Nepali Army and Armed Police Force have provided medical treatment to 3,535 and 3,287 people, respectively.

 India's relief response began shortly after the devastating flash floods in the last week of August. The first Indian relief aircraft arrived in Nepal on August 26 carrying 10 tonnes of supplies, including temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and medicines.

 The second flight arrived on August 27 with 37.5 tonnes of relief material, including tents, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, dewatering pumps, kitchen sets, generators, medicines and food items. A third consignment subsequently carried another 10 tonnes of assistance.

 On August 30, the fourth flight carrying 11 tonnes of relief assistance landed in Nepal. The consignment included a technical contingent equipped for search and rescue operations and a team of forensic experts for DNA analysis, along with blankets, sleeping bags, tarpaulin, plastic sheets and hygiene kits.

 On September 2, India sent its fifth aircraft carrying an 11-member rescue team, specialised equipment and 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines.

 The sixth and seventh relief flights, both C-130J aircraft, arrived in Kathmandu on September 4 carrying a combined 21.5 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, including forensic kits and medical supplies. The material was handed over to Nepal's Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation Mahabir Pun to support ongoing relief and rescue operations.

 Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava had said the consignments formed part of India's continuing support for Nepal's response to the Rasuwa flash floods.

 With the eighth flight carrying another 35 tonnes of relief and rescue supplies, India's assistance to Nepal continues as search, rescue and recovery operations remain underway in the flood-affected areas. (ANI)

New Delhi [India], September 9 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday opposed the regular bail plea of Baramulla MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh. The agency said that there are two more important witnesses to be examined in this case.

 Abdul Rashid Sheikh alias Engineer Rashid is an accused in a case linked to a conspiracy of stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir. He has been in custody since August 2019. This case was lodged by the NIA in 2017.

 During the hearing, the High Court asked the NIA if Abdul Rashid Sheikh can be released on bail under stringent conditions, including the condition to remain in Delhi.

 The Division Bench of Justices Prathiba M Singh and Vikas Mahajan heard the arguements advanced by senior advocate Siddharth Luthra for the NIA. 

 The senior counsel for the NIA argued that the case is at a very crucial stage and some more witnesses are yet to be examined.

 The bench raised the query and asked the NIA if Abdul Rashid Sheikh can be released on bail with stringent conditions, including that he shall remain in Delhi. 

 The High Court has listed the matter for hearing rebuttal arguements for Abdul Rashid Sheikh on November 3.

 Earlier, on February 19, 2026, while arguing on the regular bail plea Rashid Sheikh's counsel argued that his case is different from other co-accused persons. 

 Senior advocate N Hariharan alongwith Advocate Vikhyat Oberoi had appeared for Abdul Rashid Sheikh and it was submitted that he was arrested on August 9, 2019 and is in custody for last six and half years. 

 It was also submitted that he has been charge-sheeted by the NIA and charges for the offence of conspiracy, etc. have been framed. He was discharged by the trial court for the offence of supporting a terror organisation etc. under UAPA.

 Senior advocate Hariharan had submitted that initially there were 378 Prosecution witnesses. The list was cut short later. Only 33 Prosecution witnesses have been examined so far. It will take a considerable time in conclusion of trial. He has been granted interim bail twice; he has not misused the liberty. He should be enlarged on bail.

 What are the allegations against Abdul Rashid Shiekh, the bench had asked

 A senior advocate had submitted that it is alleged that he supported stone pelters and came in touch with Zahoor Ahmad Watali. His case is different from that of the other co-accused. He has been elected an independent MP. (ANI)

Tehran, September 9 : Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed that its naval forces attacked two US vessels and eight oil tankers in the Persian Gulf, escalating tensions with Washington following alleged US strikes on five Iranian oil tankers.

In a statement published by its official news outlet _Sepah News_ on Wednesday, the IRGC said its navy carried out the attacks in retaliation for what it described as a "terrorist US Army

Srinagar: The Lal Chowk Shopkeepers & Traders Association has extended a warm welcome to guests arriving in Kashmir for the Film Festival, inviting visitors to explore the historic commercial hub of Srinagar and experience the region’s vibrant culture and hospitality.

As part of the welcome initiative, participating shops across Lal Chowk and adjoining markets are offering a special 30 per cent discount to Film Festival guests.

The association has encouraged visitors to explore some of the city’s prominent shopping destinations, including Polo View Market, Ghanta Ghar, Regal Chowk, Abi Guzar and Lambert Lane, besides other bustling markets in and around Lal Chowk.

The initiative aims to give Film Festival visitors an opportunity to experience Kashmir beyond its scenic landscapes by engaging with local traders, artisans and businesses and discovering the region’s traditional crafts, flavours and products.

“We invite you to explore the vibrant shopping destinations of Lal Chowk,” the association said, while highlighting the warmth and hospitality of local traders.

The shopkeepers’ association said the special discount was intended to make the visitors’ stay more memorable

Handwara, September 9: Handwara Police received reliable information regarding the activities of an ex-terrorist who was operating as a hybrid terrorist as part of a module of the banned terrorist organisation Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) in the Handwara–Kupwara area.

Acting swiftly on the information, Handwara Police, along with 21 RR and 92 Bn CRPF, launched a joint operation at the identified location in Handwara town. Following a meticulous security drill, the accused was apprehended and identified as Manzoor Ahmad Bhat s/o Mohd Sultan Bhat r/o Kruhmura Handwara.

During his apprehension, *one Chinese-made pistol, two magazines and 16 rounds of pistol ammunition were recovered from his possession.

The arrested individual is an ex-terrorist who had previously been arrested by Police in two cases. A case FIR number 232 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Handwara, and further investigation is underway to establish the full extent of the module, its network and other associated activities

Rajouri, Sept 09 : The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Wednesday trapped and arrested a clerk posted at Government Treasury Kalakot for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000.

An official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the accused clerk, identified as Khadam Hussain, was caught red-handed while accepting the bribe from a complainant.

The official said that following a complaint regarding the alleged demand for illegal gratification, the ACB laid a trap and apprehended the accused during the transaction.

He said the accused was taken into custody and a case has been registered in the matter, while further investigation is underway.—(KNO)

Srinagar, Sep 09 : Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Wednesday administered the oath of office to Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati as Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

As per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), LG Saxena- who has been appointed to discharge the functions of J&K LG during Manoj Sinha’s leave -administered the oath at the Shalimar auditorium of Sher‑e‑Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Kashmir.

The ceremony began with the rendition of the national song, followed by the National Anthem. Later, the Registrar General of the High Court read out the warrant of appointment issued by the President of India.

After the reading of the warrant, the LG administered the oath to the Chief Justice, with both signing the oath roll papers. The LG then handed over the warrant of appointment to Justice Bhati. The function concluded with the rendition of the national song and the National Anthem.

The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather, cabinet ministers, High Court judges, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, and other senior bureaucrats and police officers—(KNO)

Budgam, Sep 09 : Three houses were gutted in a fire that broke out during the night in Khan Mohalla, Gurwait area of Budgam district, leaving six families homeless, officials said. 

An official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the fire spread rapidly and engulfed three houses within a short span of time. 

He said the by the time fire tenders reached the spot to douse off flames, the blaze had caused extensive damage to the houses, leaving six families homeless. 

The cause of the fire is being ascertained and the exact loss property is also being assessed, he added—(KNO)

Tehran , September 9 : Iran launched retaliatory missile strikes targeting Jordan on Wednesday, September 9, hitting the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base used by American forces, following an earlier US military attack on Iranian vessels.

In an official statement reported by the state-backed IRNA news agency, Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced that they "struck the American Al-Azraq base in Jordan with heavy missile strikes" as part of a designated "punitive operation".

Shortly after the barrage, the Jordanian military announced that its air defence network intercepted and neutralised the incoming projectiles. According to an official army statement, Jordan's defence systems detected 20 incoming ballistic missiles, successfully destroying 18 of them, while two impacted unpopulated terrain.

The escalation follows actions by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), which confirmed that American forces targeted five Iranian tankers connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on Tuesday, September 8. The action came in retaliation against repeated missile assaults directed at a US Navy warship over the preceding 48 hours.

CENTCOM specified that US assets struck four crude oil carriers situated in the Gulf of Oman alongside a fifth vessel near Kharg Island inside the Persian Gulf. Officials added that the targeted US warship successfully bypassed the incoming attacks, maintained its regional patrol route, and reported zero American casualties, while crews aboard the tankers were instructed to evacuate prior to the strikes.

Weighing in on the developments during an official visit to Colombia, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a direct warning to Tehran, asserting that Washington will retaliate continuously if Iranian forces target American naval assets.

Addressing reporters in Barranquilla, Rubio stated, “Iran continues to try to hit US naval ships and for every time they do that, or try to do that, they’re going to lose tankers.”

Amid the escalating exchange of strikes, international energy markets reacted swiftly, pushing oil prices upward for the fourth consecutive session. Brent crude futures climbed by USD 1.57, translating to a 1.6 per cent increase, reaching USD 94.49 per barrel during early Wednesday trading.

Meanwhile, US West Texas Intermediate crude traded at USD 94.63 per barrel, marking an advance of USD 1.60, or 1.72 per cent.

In a parallel development, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for seizing an uncrewed American submarine near the gateway of the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media outlets identified the captured hardware as a Dive-LD, representing a large autonomous underwater vehicle manufactured by the California-based defence contractor Anduril.

The 19-foot submersible is engineered to perform diverse operations, including mine countermeasures, seabed mapping, intelligence gathering, and the examination of submerged critical infrastructure such as cables and pipelines, according to manufacturer specifications.

Announcing the seizure through state media, the Revolutionary Guards Navy declared, "We trapped one of the most modern, intelligent and unmanned submarines of the terrorist American army at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz. This submersible is equipped with the latest technologies."

Countering the Iranian claims, a Pentagon spokesperson clarified that an underwater drone had experienced technical failure more than a day prior.

Explaining the operational context, the spokesperson stated that the unit "was surveying regional waters in support of ongoing operations. The defective drone was an older model that neither collected sensitive data nor carried any classified sonar or radar equipment." (ANI)

Srinagar, Sep 8: A five-day NABL Assessor Training Programme on ISO 15189:2022, aimed at strengthening medical laboratory quality assurance in Jammu & Kashmir, commenced in Srinagar on Tuesday.

The capacity-development programme is being conducted in collaboration with the Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir; State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K (SAHC-JK), and the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), a constituent Board of the Quality Council of India (QCI) under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India.

The programme forms part of the structured quality and capacity-building initiatives under the ‘Gunvatta Chakra’ framework of the Quality Council of India, facilitated in the Union Territory by the State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K.

The progression from ‘Gunvatta Yatra’ to ‘Gunvatta Pathshala’ and now to Assessor Training represents a structured continuum from awareness and capacity building to assessor development, with the objective of strengthening the medical laboratory quality assurance and accreditation ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir.

The training programme was inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) Sabhiya Majid, Chairperson, State Allied and Healthcare Council, J&K, and Prof. (Dr.) Tanveer Ali Dar, Head, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir. Prof. (Dr.) Fouzia Rashid, Professor, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, is the organising Secretary of the programme.

The programme is being attended by senior and distinguished medical faculty and professionals from Jammu & Kashmir as well as other parts of the country. Clinical doctors and medical professionals from prestigious institutions, including AIIMS, Government Medical Colleges and other State Government organisations, are participating in the training.

The five-day programme is designed to develop a strong pool of trained assessors and resource faculty capable of undertaking assessment of government and private medical laboratories in accordance with applicable NABL standards and the requirements of ISO 15189:2022.

The initiative is expected to enhance local assessment capabilities, strengthen laboratory quality systems, support accreditation preparedness and promote consistency in diagnostic services across Jammu & Kashmir. It will also contribute to strengthening the national pool of trained NABL assessors and resource persons.

The programme underscores the commitment of the participating institutions towards fostering a culture of quality, competence and continuous improvement in medical laboratory services, thereby contributing to safer, more reliable and standardized diagnostic healthcare in the Union Territory.

Awantipora, Sep 8: The Department of Architecture, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), today inaugurated second edition of its Annual Architecture Festival, “Nairang-e-Tameer: Celebrating Craft, Culture and Community: Traditions in Practice,” bringing together academia, practitioners, heritage professionals, entrepreneurs, craftspeople and students to explore the deep connections between architecture, traditional crafts, culture and community.

The three-day festival being organised from September 8 to 10, provides a platform for students and practitioners to showcase their work, exchange ideas, build professional networks and explore the relationship between traditional architectural knowledge and contemporary practice.

While welcoming the participants, Mehraan Qureshi, Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, described Nairang-e-Tameer as a platform, where students and architects can come together to share their work and learn from one another.

In his presidential address, Vice Chancellor, IUST, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, emphasised the need to preserve the character of Kashmiri architecture while responding to contemporary challenges. “There is a growing homogenisation of architectural forms including the proliferation of similar building types and hence a need to integrate modernity with traditional practices,” he said. He also stressed on taking greater account of disaster resilience too.

Prof. Romshoo called for architecture students to be exposed to emerging technologies, so that modern technological tools can be meaningfully blended with traditional architecture. He emphasised on the need to make such initiatives more student-centric.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kuldeep, Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Government of J&K, highlighted ongoing efforts towards developing an ethnographic gallery documenting artefacts and cultural materials.

Dr Kuldeep also pointed out that J&K currently has only two schools of architecture, at IUST and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, underscoring the importance of strengthening opportunities for students and professionals in the field.

Earlier, Qazi Qammer Iqbal, Dean, School of Architecture, Planning and Geomatics, in his opening remarks, reflected on the significance of the festival’s Persian derived name. He noted that both Nairang, associated with deception and magic and Tameer, meaning construction, hold a particular relevance to architecture. He said that architecture too involves an element of “deception” through the ways in which spaces, forms and perceptions are created.

While delivering her address, Dr Ruheela Hassan, Dean Outreach, IUST, congratulated the Department of Architecture, participants and organisers for the initiative and appreciated the theme of the festival. Emphasising the wider social role of architecture, she quoted that meaningful work emerges, when knowledge meets society. She remarked that architects do not merely construct buildings but also “give us hope.”

Dean Research, IUST, Dr Abid Hussain Shalla, delivered a special address and appreciated the initiative and the efforts of the Department of Architecture in creating a platform for academic and professional exchange.

The festival, organised by the Department of Architecture, IUST, in collaboration with the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology & Museums, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, seeks to create a sustained dialogue between architecture, culture and community while encouraging young architects to engage critically with the region’s rich architectural and craft traditions.

The first day also featured a series of engaging Architects’ conclave sessions, academia-industry interactions, competitions and exhibitions where accomplished architects and professionals showcased their work.

Kulgam, Sep 8: Municipal Council Kulgam on Tuesday organised a Capacity Building programme on the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, with a focus on their effective implementation and strengthening of solid waste management practices in the urban local bodies.

The programme was attended by MLA Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami; Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Shahzad Ahmad; Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR), Reyaz Ahmad; Chief Executive Officer, Mohammad Irfan Wani; Accounts Officer; Sanitary Inspector, Ex DDC Chairperson, Mohd Afzal Parray, Ex-President Muneeb Ahmad Zargar; sanitary supervisor; representatives of Auqaf Kulgam; street vendors, swachhta ambassadors; Swachhata Champions; local citizens; Bulk Waste Generators (BWGs); sanitation workers and other staff members of Municipal Council Kulgam and Municipal Committee Devsar.

The capacity-building programme was conducted by Tabrez Hussain Madani, CB Expert, Swaaha Resource Management Pvt. Ltd. The session focused on strengthening the understanding and practical knowledge of stakeholders regarding the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026 and their effective implementation at the urban local-body level.

During the session, detailed discussions were held on source segregation, door-to-door waste collection, proper transportation and processing of waste, scientific disposal, occupational safety of sanitation workers, and community participation under the Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban 2.0.

Key areas covered during the programme included the provisions and implementation of the SWM Rules, 2026, responsibilities of Bulk Waste Generators (BWGs), Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), home composting, waste segregation at source, and responsible waste management practices.

Shopian, Sep 8: District Level Review Committee (DLRC)-cum-District Consultative Committee (DCC) meeting of District Shopian to review the performance of financial institutions for the 1st Quarter of FY 2026-27, ended June 30, 2026, was held on Tuesday at District Administrative Complex, Shopian.

At the outset, the LDM apprised the meeting about the major achievements of the district in the financial sector as on June 30, 2026.

It was informed that deposits in the district registered a 13% year-on-year (YoY) growth, while witnessing a 2% decline compared to the previous quarter ended March 31, 2026.

Similarly, advances recorded a 15% YoY growth and a 4% increase over the previous quarter. Priority Sector Advances registered a 6% YoY growth and an 8% increase over the previous quarter.

The Non-Priority Sector of the district recorded a significant 29% YoY growth, though it witnessed a 3% decline compared to the previous quarter.

The meeting was also informed that the Credit-Deposit (CD) Ratio of the district stood at 130% as on June 30, 2026.

Reviewing the progress under the District Credit Plan (DCP) 2026-27, it was informed that against the annual financial target of ₹2,308.18 crore and a physical target of 58,123 beneficiaries, various banks operating in the district disbursed ₹397.10 crore to 13,466 beneficiaries during the first quarter of the current financial year, with an achievement of 17% of the annual financial target and 23% of the physical target during the quarter.

Dr Nasir Lone reviewed the performance of banks and departments and stressed upon all stakeholders to further strengthen coordination and ensure timely disposal and sanctioning of eligible cases under various credit-linked schemes. He called for focused efforts to improve financial inclusion, credit flow to priority sectors and achievement of the targets fixed under the District Credit Plan.

The ADDC also emphasised the need for regular monitoring of the implementation of various Government-sponsored schemes so that maximum eligible beneficiaries derive the intended benefits.

The meeting was chaired by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Shopian, Dr Nasir Ahmad Lone, and attended by Chief Planning Officer Shopian, Mudasir Ahmad, General Manager DIC, Shopian, Surjeel Ahmad, Lead District Manager (LDM) Shopian, Farooq Ahmad, Lead District Officer (LDO), RBI, district-level officers of various Government Departments and representatives of banks.

Srinagar, Sep 8: Students of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) have earned international recognition for their One Health initiative, receiving the prestigious One Health Day 2025 Student Competition Award at the World One Health Congress (WOHC 2026) in Lisbon, Portugal.

The award was presented during the closing ceremony of the international congress, which brought together leading experts, researchers, academicians, policymakers, students and professionals from across the world to advance the One Health approach.

Organised by the One Health Commission, the One Health Day Student Competition recognises outstanding student-led initiatives that promote interdisciplinary collaboration across human, animal and environmental health.

Representing SKUAST-K, Dr Ayeman Qamri, MVSc Scholar, Veterinary Medicine, and Dr Shivam Srivastava, MVSc Scholar, Veterinary Gynaecology & Obstetrics, received the award online on behalf of the SKUAST-K One Health student team (SKUAOHUN).

Video messages from the student representatives were also showcased during the formal award ceremony, highlighting the team’s work and contribution to advancing the One Health agenda.

The recognition follows SKUAOHUN’s success in the One Health Day 2025 International Student Competition, where the team secured the top honour for organising a month-long hybrid initiative, ‘One Health Program-2025’.

Competing with teams from 94 countries across all continents, the SKUAST-K team was recognised for taking the One Health message beyond classrooms through community engagement, awareness, education and interdisciplinary activities.

As part of the competition recognition, the team received an International Certificate of Excellence and a cash award of USD 1,000. The achievement underscores the global relevance of the students’ work and reflects the University’s growing engagement with transdisciplinary One Health research, education and outreach.

SKUAST-K has been working to institutionalise the One Health approach in Jammu and Kashmir. The University initiated a structured One Health roadmap in 2023, including the establishment of a dedicated School of One Health, while also developing collaborations with leading medical and veterinary institutions to advance research, education, innovation and policy engagement in the field.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai congratulated Dr Ayeman Qamri, Dr Shivam Srivastava and the entire SKUAOHUN team, along with the scientists and Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Shuhama, on the international achievement.

Prof. Ganai said the recognition demonstrates the growing global impact of SKUAST-K’s transdisciplinary approach and reflects the University’s commitment to addressing emerging societal and scientific challenges through One Health.

He described the achievement as an important milestone in the University’s transition from national to global engagement and reiterated SKUAST-K’s aspiration to emerge as India’s first global agricultural university by 2030.

Srinagar, Sep 8: To strengthen the rehabilitation and socio-economic reintegration ecosystem for persons affected by substance abuse, Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo on Tuesday dedicated to public the Rehabilitation Centre for District Srinagar at Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), Srinagar.

Those who were present on this occasion includes Commissioner Secretary, Health & Medical Education; Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare; Principal, GMC Srinagar; Head, IMHANS Srinagar and other faculty members and doctors of the institute.

The Centre marks the operationalisation of the Phase-I pilot of the Rehabilitation & Socio-Economic Reintegration Scheme for Drug Abuse Victims, 2026, initiated by the Social Welfare Department in coordination with the Health & Medical Education Department, district administration and other concerned stakeholders.

After inaugurating the Centre, Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, went around the facility and took detailed note of the various facilities and spaces created for its functioning, including the doctors’ rooms, patient and family counselling spaces and group therapy facilities, besides the arrangements for referral and emergency linkages.

The Chief Secretary appreciated the efforts made in creating the Centre and expressed hope that it would serve as the beginning of a sustained and long-term rehabilitation journey for the victims, enabling them to regain confidence, reconnect with their families and communities and progressively return to productive and dignified lives.

He observed that the operationalisation of the Centre was an important first step towards translating the rehabilitation policy into a practical, ground-level mechanism and expressed the hope that the experience gained here would help in initiating and strengthening the implementation of the policy in other districts of J&K as well. 

He stressed that the pilot should generate practical learning for refining the framework and facilitating its subsequent expansion across the Union Territory.

The Chief Secretary emphasised that the success of the initiative would depend upon sustained coordination among the concerned departments, health institutions, district administrations and community-level stakeholders, with each stakeholder performing the designated role with commitment.

The Commissioner Secretary, H&ME, M.Raju remarked that the centre has been envisaged as a comprehensive support mechanism extending beyond treatment and de-addiction to facilitate the rehabilitation, recovery, family engagement and socio-economic reintegration of beneficiaries.

He detailed that the initiative follows the directions of the Chief Secretary during the high-level review of preparedness for the Phase-I pilot, wherein IMHANS Srinagar was identified as one of the principal pilot institutions for implementing the rehabilitation model on the ground.

The Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare, Sarmed Hafeez remarked that the newly inaugurated Centre will bring together a multidisciplinary support framework involving medical assessment, counselling, social-work intervention, family engagement, case management, referral and follow-up, with a focus on developing an Individual Rehabilitation Plan for each beneficiary.

He added that the model seeks to address the multiple dimensions of substance-use disorders by ensuring that beneficiaries are not only supported through recovery but are also assisted in rebuilding family and community relationships and accessing avenues for education, skill development, livelihood and sustainable socio-economic reintegration.

While describing the broad counters of the centre and its objectives, the Head IMHANS, Dr Arshad Hussain revealed that this Centre will facilitate coordination with community-level stakeholders, including ASHA workers, Self Help Groups and other frontline functionaries, thereby extending the rehabilitation process beyond institutional care and creating a stronger community-based support system.

Moreover, he gave out that the framework envisages creating a pool of trained Medical Officers/Psychiatrists, Counsellors and Social Welfare Officials/Case Managers working in a coordinated manner besides focusing on the capacity-building in screening, assessment and referral, counselling, family engagement, case management, relapse-risk identification and ethical handling of beneficiaries.

The Centre will, accordingly, function as an important link between clinical care and community-based rehabilitation, with greater emphasis on continuity of support after treatment and reducing the risk of relapse and social exclusion.

The scheme also embeds in itself the strengthening of addiction psychiatry capacity in J&K through collaboration with the National Drug De-addiction & Treatment Centre (NDDTC), AIIMS New Delhi, including structured training, mentoring, observerships and joint research in addiction psychiatry, opioid agonist treatment, dual-diagnosis management and evaluation of rehabilitation interventions.

The initiative reflects the support of Central government to the UT Administration’s to adopt a people-centric, coordinated and recovery-oriented approach to substance abuse, recognising that sustainable rehabilitation requires not only medical intervention but also family support, social acceptance, skills, livelihood opportunities and continued follow-up.

With IMHANS Srinagar emerging as a key institutional anchor for the pilot, the Centre is expected to provide a structured pathway for beneficiaries from treatment and stabilisation to rehabilitation, reintegration and restoration of productive lives.

Srinagar, Sep 08: While the government mulls filling vacancies and providing employment to the youth, the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) has claimed that over 170 posts across different departments are pending due to multiple reasons.

As many as 172 government posts in Jammu and Kashmir are pending due to clarifications, court cases and other departmental issues, reveals the data, accessed by Rising Kashmir.

It shows that the Higher Education Department has 92 posts pending, including 88 Assistant Professor Posts in various disciplines, for which clarification is awaited from the department.

Another two posts of Assistant Professor in Biotechnology Engineering and two posts of Assistant Professor in Food Engineering & Technology are pending due to the non-availability of syllabus.

In the Health & Medical Education (H&ME) Department, one post of Junior Medical Physicist is pending due to the non-availability of the syllabus.

Meanwhile, the Agriculture Production Department (APD) has five posts of District Sericulture Officer pending, with the matter marked as sub judice.

The Health & Medical Education Department also has 35 posts of Assistant Professor (Unani/Ayurveda), two posts of Assistant Commissioner Food Safety and 10 posts of Assistant Professor Nursing pending, with the matters facing court-related issues.

Seven posts of AP (500-bedded) Paediatrics Hospital, Bemina, have been kept on hold by the department.

Another 20 posts of Tutor, Lecturer, Andrologist, Gynaecologist, and Clinical Embryologist are awaiting clarification from the concerned department.

The document puts the total number of posts pending due to clarification, court cases and other issues at 172.

Srinagar, Sep 08: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday said the stipend of MBBS and BDS interns, who had been on strike for more than a week, would be finalised within a month based on the recommendations of the Stipend Enhancement Committee.

The development came after a delegation of medical interns from various medical colleges across J&K called on Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo and sought enhancement of their monthly stipend.

According to details issued by the office of the Health Minister, the meeting was attended by the Principal, Government Medical College Srinagar; Deputy Director Planning, representing the Director Health Services Kashmir; and medical interns.

The delegation apprised the minister of the existing stipend structure and highlighted the need for a suitable revision, keeping in view the nature of their duties, workload and responsibilities in the healthcare system.

The minister gave a patient hearing to the delegation and observed that the concerns raised by the medical interns deserved due consideration. She said the Government had remained mindful of issues concerning medical interns and was sensitive to their legitimate concerns.

Sakeena Itoo informed the delegation that the matter was already under consideration and that a committee had been constituted to examine the issue comprehensively. She said the constitution of the committee reflected the seriousness with which the Government was addressing the matter and its intent to arrive at a considered and appropriate decision.

It was also observed that the matter needed to be brought to a logical conclusion expeditiously so that the valuable time and academic and professional responsibilities of the interns were not adversely affected and hospital services and patient care continued uninterrupted.

After detailed deliberations, it was decided that the matter would be finalised within 30 days on the basis of the recommendations of the Stipend Enhancement Committee and keeping in view the legitimate interests and concerns of the medical interns.

“In view of the above, the medical interns agreed to resume their duties forthwith, in the larger interest of patient care and also to safeguard their academic and professional interests,” according to details.

Meanwhile, medical interns across Jammu and Kashmir have put their ongoing strike on hold for one month following the assurance from the Health Minister, All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA) J&K president Dr Mohammad Momin Khan said. They will resume their duties from Wednesday.

AIMSA president expressed gratitude to Sakeena Itoo for giving the interns one month’s time to finalise the stipend enhancement issue and thanked all those who supported the protesting intern doctors during the agitation.

The interns had initially rejected the proposed one-month timeline and continued their agitation, insisting that the stipend enhancement be formally notified through a government order.

The protest subsequently intensified, with interns at SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, announcing a 48-hour hunger strike on September 7 in the absence of a formal order on the stipend revision.

The interns have been demanding an increase in their monthly stipend paid during their one-year mandatory internship after completing MBBS or BDS from medical colleges.

In July last year, the Health Minister had stated that there would be an increase in the stipend “very soon” and that the file was under process.

Since then, students and medical associations had repeatedly raised the issue with the authorities, pointing out that the stipend had not been revised for the past seven years.

In February 2026, the issue was also raised in the J&K Legislative Assembly. The Government had acknowledged that a committee constituted in 2023 had recommended an enhancement, while the proposal was still awaiting the required financial concurrence.

Srinagar, Sep 08: The second day of the first International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK-2026) witnessed an engaging policy dialogue on the prospects of building a sustainable cinematic ecosystem in the Union Territory, with Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo emphasising the need to create an enabling environment for local talent, filmmaking, film education and investment.

Participating in a panel discussion on “How the J&K Film Policy, Single-Window Clearances, and Incentives Can Build a Sustainable Local Cinematic Ecosystem”, moderated by noted film critic and journalist Mayank Shekhar, the Chief Secretary, along with Commissioner Secretary, Information Department, R. Alice Vaz, dwelt upon the initiatives already undertaken by the Government and the measures being planned to give further impetus to filmmaking and film tourism in J&K.

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo while speaking said that the people of J&K have a natural affinity towards the creative world and recalled the region’s close association with the film fraternity during the 1970s and 1980s, when its landscapes and locations were extensively connected with the film industry.

He expressed that IFFJK has been conceived as a platform to renew these connections and channel the creative energies of the region’s youth towards filmmaking and its allied professions. “People making efforts to realise their dreams is essential,” the Chief Secretary observed, recalling former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s famous words that “Dreams are those which don’t let you sleep.”

He said that the festival provides an ideal platform to deliberate upon the possibilities and potential that J&K offers to the film industry and, more importantly, to evolve a clear roadmap for carrying the momentum forward after the festival.

He pointed out that cinema is a collective endeavour and that the people seen on the screen or stage constitute only one part of a much larger industry comprising a wide range of professionals whose contribution is essential to bringing a production to life.

Dulloo further underlined the importance of nurturing local human resources and said that the Government was exploring avenues for providing scholarships to students interested in different aspects of filmmaking at reputed national institutions, besides facilitating partnerships with such institutions for imparting specialised courses and training within J&K.

He also highlighted the role of the Skill Development Mission in creating appropriate training opportunities in local institutions, including courses related to filmmaking and its allied fields.

On the ease of filming in J&K, the Chief Secretary emphasised the need to continuously remove procedural bottlenecks faced by filmmakers and production houses. He observed that the Single Window Clearance System needs further strengthening and simplification, while the proposed Ease of Doing Business Bill is expected to bring further deregulation and facilitate a smoother business environment for the industry.

Referring to the culture of encouraging people to write their own stories in Maharashtra, he said that similar efforts could help identify and nurture storytelling talent in J&K, with many of these narratives having the potential to evolve into vibrant film scripts. “We have numerous stories here. What is required is to hone and chisel this talent and present these stories in the right form and style,” he maintained.

Commissioner Secretary, Information, R. Alice Vaz, while elaborating on the J&K Film Policy, outlined the incentives presently available for film shootings in the Union Territory and the additional benefits extended to regional filmmakers and productions having significant local participation.

She explained that the policy has been designed not merely to attract external productions but also to encourage local filmmakers, artists and creative talent, thereby creating greater opportunities for people associated with the film industry within J&K.

She also highlighted the incentives available for films having more than 50 per cent of their shooting in J&K, along with provisions encouraging the engagement of local artists and other personnel.

Vaz said that these policy interventions are intended to create a virtuous cycle in which greater filmmaking activity generates employment and opportunities for local talent while simultaneously showcasing J&K’s landscapes, heritage and cultural richness to wider audiences.

She underlined the strong linkage between filmmaking and tourism, noting that increased cinematic visibility can contribute to the promotion of destinations and generate wider economic activity for local communities.

The panel discussion thus brought together the policy, regulatory, educational, creative and economic dimensions of J&K’s emerging film ecosystem, with the participants stressing that the ultimate objective should be to move beyond facilitating individual film shoots towards creating a sustainable ecosystem capable of nurturing local talent and attracting national and international productions.

The Day-2 proceedings of IFFJK-2026 also featured a diverse range of creative, technical and policy-oriented sessions across SKICC Srinagar. A Masterclass on directing romantic comedies was conducted by filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, while an In-Conversation Session with cinematographer Anil Mehta explored the role of framing, lighting and other visual elements in creating narrative subtext beyond written dialogue.

Furthermore, four panel discussions further expanded the festival’s engagement with contemporary cinema and its evolving ecosystem. In Hall 2, a panel moderated by Dhwani Desai explored the convergence of traditional regional art forms with animation, Artificial Intelligence and CGI and the possibilities of creating new authorial voices through emerging technologies. The discussion featured Sanat P. C., Ujjwal Nirgudkar, Hetal Soliya, Jitin Masand, Bharath Laxmipati, Jividha Sharma and Kanika Gautam.

In addition to that the Hall 3 hosted a festival selection round table moderated by Sourav Kanti Datta, with C. S. Venkateshwaran, Siladitya Sen, Nirmal Dhar and Reema Borah deliberating on the changing landscape of independent cinema, curation and access.

The day concluded with an acting-focused panel moderated by Mandar Bam, featuring Sulakhyana Barua, Rahul Bhatt and Ashoke Viswanathan, who discussed the creative demands, preparation and collaborative processes involved in developing memorable characters for the screen.

The varied sessions on the second day reinforced IFFJK-2026’s larger vision of creating a platform where cinema, policy, technology, education, creative talent and tourism converge, while opening new avenues for J&K’s participation in the national and global cinematic landscape.

Srinagar, Sep 08: Bollywood playback singer Sunidhi Chauhan on Tuesday described Kashmir as “Jannat” and praised the valley’s hospitality, food and scenic beauty, saying she hoped to bring her concert to the region.

Speaking to reporters at INOX Srinagar on the sidelines of the first International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026 here, Chauhan said it was her first visit to Kashmir and that the experience had left her overwhelmed.

“I had been to many places, but never got to be in Kashmir. Today, it feels like I am in Jannat. My eyes were opened after seeing Kashmir,” she said.

Praising the hospitality and cuisine, she said, “The hospitality is amazing, and the food is great. I am speechless, and I don’t want to go back to Mumbai. I hope I get a chance to bring my concert to Kashmir.”

Chauhan said she had earlier been in love with Kashmir through films and television but that visiting the valley in person had given her a completely different perspective.

Talking about the film festival, the singer said such platforms were important for giving recognition to lesser-known films and filmmakers who put in immense effort despite uncertainty about the future of their projects.

“Such festivals are important because they give recognition to lesser-known films or films made with a lot of hard work, whose future may not be known. Such films get a platform here,” she said.

Sunidhi appreciated the response of local audiences, saying it was encouraging to see movie lovers attending screenings. “These are platforms where people get to learn a lot. If they have any confusion, they can get it cleared at such festivals. There is so much to explore. People are coming and watching, and I hope they have a great time. Good films should be promoted,” she said.

On Kashmir’s potential as a filming destination, Chauhan said the valley’s landscapes could enhance almost any cinematic production.

“Wherever you shoot, Kashmir looks stunning. People are eager to visit Kashmir and shoot here. Those who do not know Kashmir fully should attend such festivals,” she said.

The singer praised the region’s artistic potential, saying Kashmir had immense talent that deserved greater recognition.

Srinagar, Sep 08: Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi on Tuesday batted for the promotion of regional cinema, saying local stories have the potential to reach a global audience and that Kashmir has immense scope for filmmakers from the region.

Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) here, Tripathi said the growth of cinema in Kashmir would depend not only on shooting films in the region but also on encouraging local filmmakers to tell their own stories.

“Regional cinema is important. The local is global. I am sure regional cinema will be made here, and infrastructure will also grow,” he said.

Tripathi said that although several films are being shot in Kashmir, stories told by Kashmiri filmmakers would bring a different perspective to the screen.

“A lot of films are being shot here, but if a Kashmiri filmmaker makes a film with their own story, that would look amazing. Regional cinema has a great scope, and I am sure local youth will take it forward,” he said.

He described the ongoing film festival as an important beginning that could help establish stronger connections between filmmakers from Kashmir and the rest of the country and the world.

“This festival is the opening to go a long way and build connections. People will come and go, and relations will be built. They will come here and experience Kashmiriyat and the culture. This festival is the opening, and more filmmakers will come here later,” Tripathi said.

Referring to his friend and Gullak writer Durgesh Singh, who is currently in Kashmir, the actor said filmmakers were already exploring stories rooted in the region.

“He has made films and web series based on local stories set in Kashmir. Though he is from Mumbai, he has set a story in Kashmir. So it is clear that people are making films on stories from here,” he said.

Tripathi also spoke warmly about his experience in Kashmir, particularly the local cuisine and hospitality.

“We enjoyed Kashmiri wazwan. We loved it. We met a few local people also, and I felt great hospitality. We would come again and want our films to be screened in Kashmir,” he said.

He said film festivals also provide an important learning opportunity for students and aspiring filmmakers, allowing them to interact with experienced professionals and learn from their experiences.

The actor expressed his willingness to shoot in Kashmir whenever he gets an opportunity. “I would love to shoot in Kashmir whenever I get a chance. It is a beautiful part of India. If the government supports us, we would love to tell stories from Kashmir,” Tripathi said.

Srinagar, Sep 08: Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali on Tuesday said Kashmir offers unparalleled cinematic possibilities and expressed hope that more moviemakers would explore the region’s untold stories through cinema.

Speaking to the media at the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) here, Ali said filmmakers often look for opportunities to return to Kashmir and shoot their films in the valley.

“We also look for an excuse to come back to Kashmir and shoot here because there is no more beautiful place in terms of cinematic views than Kashmir. It has always been a great experience shooting here,” he said.

He said Kashmir has numerous stories that have not yet found their way to the screen, adding that the region has often been portrayed either as “heaven” or through a different lens.

“Kashmir has so many stories to tell, but they have not come out. Either it has been shown as heaven or sometimes something else. I think Kashmiri humour is also very interesting,” he said.

Referring to his film Laila Majnu, which was extensively shot in Kashmir, Imtiaz said the film was an important attempt to tell a story rooted entirely in the valley.

“Laila Majnu was an important film as it was completely based in Kashmir. Its characters were from Kashmir, and the entire film was shot here,” he said.

He recalled that the film was released at a time when cinema theatres were not functioning in Kashmir, and the makers had to request theatres to screen it. Despite the challenges, he said, the film received a strong response and continued to gain popularity.

“Yesterday was the eighth anniversary of the film. It has become more popular, all because of the blessings from Kashmir. I thank Kashmir for Laila Majnu,” Ali said.

The filmmaker expressed admiration for Kashmiri poet-saints Lal Ded and Habba Khatoon, saying he would like to make a film on their lives if he could develop the required understanding and courage.

“I am fascinated by Lal Ded and Habba Khatoon. If I get that knowledge and courage, I would like to make a film on them,” he said.

Ali said there was immense potential for filmmaking in Kashmir and described Laila Majnu as an attempt to initiate something enduring from the region.

Welcoming the organisation of the film festival, Imtiaz Ali said such events could encourage filmmakers from across the country and the world to come to Kashmir and discover the region through their own perspectives.

“I am sure people will come to Kashmir for such festivals and see Kashmir through their own thoughts,” he said.

Ali also praised the people of Kashmir, describing them as talented and sensitive.

Recalling his earlier experiences of shooting in the valley for films including Rockstar and Highway, the filmmaker said he had received considerable hospitality from local people.

“I had a great experience shooting in Kashmir when we shot Rockstar and Highway. People here were very hospitable,” he said.

Srinagar, Sep 08: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday watched ‘Mirzapur: The Movie’ at INOX Multiplex, Shivpora, Srinagar, as one of the films being screened during the ongoing International Film Festival Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK), being held under the theme ‘Rang-e-Cinema’.

The screening provided the Chief Minister an opportunity to experience the festival’s celebration of cinema alongside film enthusiasts and audiences. The IFFJK, which was inaugurated by CM Abdullah at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) last evening, is bringing together filmmakers, artists and cinema enthusiasts from across India and abroad, with a diverse range of films being showcased during the festival.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister interacted with the lead actors of Mirzapur: The Movie, including Pankaj Tripathi, who reprises his popular character of Kaleen Bhaiya, and Divyenndu, known for his portrayal of Munna Bhaiya in the hit Mirzapur series.

The CM felicitated the actors and appreciated their contribution to Indian cinema. He welcomed them to Jammu & Kashmir and expressed happiness over their participation in the maiden edition of IFFJK.

“The presence of leading artistes and filmmakers in Jammu & Kashmir would further strengthen the region’s association with cinema and contribute to building a vibrant film ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

The first International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir was inaugurated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at SKICC on the evening of September 7. The four-day festival is bringing together filmmakers, artists, delegates and cinema enthusiasts from across the world, with participation from over 30 countries and more than 130 films being showcased during the festival.

The IFFJK is being organised to celebrate the enduring relationship between Jammu & Kashmir and cinema, while providing a platform for filmmakers and audiences to engage with diverse cinematic traditions from across the world.

Former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Director Information Shreya Singhal and other concerned officials were also present on the occasion.

Srinagar, Sep 08: In a significant support measure for families affected by terrorism, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has earmarked four MBBS seats from the Central Pool for the academic year 2026-27 for spouses and children of civilian victims of terrorism.

According to an official notification, the MHA, in a time-bound communication to the Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories, has asked administrations, including Jammu and Kashmir, to give wide publicity to the scheme and invite applications from eligible candidates.

“Of the four seats, one has been earmarked at A.N. Magadh Medical College, Gaya, Bihar; one at Grant Medical College, Mumbai, Maharashtra and two at Pt. JNM Medical College, Raipur, Chhattisgarh,” the official letter reads. 

The ministry said the initiative is aimed at extending educational support to families that have suffered the devastating consequences of terrorism.

“As per the eligibility criteria, the candidate must be the spouse or child of a deceased or disabled civilian victim of terrorism, besides fulfilling the prescribed age, educational and NEET-UG 2026 qualification requirements,” it states. 

The MHA has laid down a clear order of priority for allotment. Priority-one will go to children whose both parents have been killed by terrorists. Priority-two covers children of families whose sole breadwinner was killed by terrorists, while Priority-three includes wards of victims who suffered permanent disability or serious injury in terrorist operations.

“The seats will be allotted on the basis of NEET (UG)-2026 rank, subject to fulfilment of the prescribed eligibility conditions. The ministry has directed that priority-one candidates be considered first, followed by priority-two and priority-III candidates if seats remain available,” the official letter reads. 

Importantly, the benefit will be restricted to one ward of a civilian terror victim. “If one ward has already availed the benefit, another ward from the same family will not be eligible for consideration under these reserved seats,” he said.

The MHA has asked State Governments and UT administrations to ensure proper verification and authentication of applications before forwarding them to the ministry.

“It may kindly be noted that only the application received by December 12, 2026 in the Ministry of Home Affairs, will be considered for allotment of the abovementioned seats. No extension of the last date and no reminder will be issued,” the communication states. “Eligible candidates from J&K and other States and Union Territories have thus been given a narrow window to submit their applications, with the deadline fixed for September 12, 2026.” 

The measure comes as an important educational lifeline for children and families who have borne the human cost of terrorism, offering deserving candidates an opportunity to pursue medical education through the Central Pool.

Srinagar, Sep 08: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly will convene its first paperless session from September 21, with the Assembly Secretariat issuing a provisional calendar for the autumn sitting that will see the House take up Government Business, Private Members’ Bills and Private Members’ Resolutions.

The session will begin with Obituary References and Government Business, followed by Government Business on September 22. September 23 will be observed as a holiday on account of the birthday of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji.

According to the provisional calendar issued under the authority of Assembly Speaker Advocate Abdul Rahim Rather, Private Members’ Bills have been scheduled for September 24 and September 28, while Private Members’ Resolutions will be taken up on September 25. September 26 will be an off day and September 27 a holiday. Government Business is scheduled for September 29 and 30, subject to the availability of business.

Ahead of the session, legislators were permitted to submit up to four starred and four unstarred questions—eight questions in all—one Bill and two resolutions each. The deadline for questions and Bills was August 25, while notices for resolutions could be submitted up to September 5.

The upcoming session is also significant as the Assembly is set to move towards fully paperless functioning through the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA). From the autumn session, legislative business, including replies to questions, Bills and other Assembly work, is to be processed through the digital platform. The system was partially introduced during the 2026 Budget Session, with the objective of eventually eliminating paper-based legislative processes.

The Assembly Secretariat has reportedly received more than 300 questions from legislators for the forthcoming session. Besides fresh Private Members’ Bills, several Bills left pending from the Budget Session are also expected to come up for consideration, subject to their listing by the Speaker.

The move to NeVA is being viewed as an important step towards modernising the functioning of the J&K legislature, enabling members and departments to submit, access and process legislative material digitally. Departments have been directed to submit replies to questions, Bills and other Assembly business through the portal and maintain their accounts on a regular basis.

The sixth session will be closely watched as legislators are expected to raise a range of public issues, besides the Government placing its legislative and administrative business before the House. The detailed business, however, remains subject to changes depending on the matters listed before the Assembly.

The session will be held in Srinagar and comes ahead of the October 4 deadline for convening the Assembly within six months of the conclusion of the previous session. The Budget Session had concluded on April 4, 2026. 

Meanwhile, BJP is gearing up to corner the NC government over a series of issues that include power tariff hike, job outsourcing and failure to fulfil manifesto promises that include allotting 12 gas cylinders, free ration and 200 units of power. 

“We will play the role of a constructive opposition and make the NC government accountable for its failure to deliver on what it promised in its manifesto,” said Altaf Thakur, BJP J&K spokesperson.

Budgam  Sep 8 : Residents of several villages across Budgam district have expressed growing concern over the increasing population of stray dogs in rural areas, saying the issue has created a sense of fear among residents, particularly children, women and elderly people.

Gulzar Ahmad, a taxi driver, said the stray dog population in rural parts of the district has increased considerably over the past few years.

“The stray dog population has increased in many rural areas of Budgam during the last few  years. However, there is no dedicated department dealing with the issue in villages ,” he said.

Ahmad pointed out that while the district has six municipal committees that deal with stray dog-related issues within their jurisdictions, a similar mechanism is lacking in rural areas.

“There are six municipal committees in Budgam district where work related to the stray dog population is being carried out. However, there is no department specifically working on this issue in the rural areas across the district” he said.

He further said that several residents have reportedly suffered injuries in dog attacks, while hospitals are also receiving patients with dog-bite injuries.

Tanzeela Bano, a college student, said the growing presence of stray dogs has also raised concerns among parents and students, many parents are reluctant to allow their children to travel to school alone due to the fear of stray dog attacks.

“Parents are dropping their children at schools because they are not confident about allowing them to travel alone. People are also feeling unsafe while visiting their agricultural and horticultural fields, where stray dogs are frequently seen roaming,” she said.

Bano said the presence of stray dogs in agricultural and horticultural fields  has become a particular concern for residents, who fear being attacked while carrying out routine farming activities.

She urged the district administration to identify villages where the stray dog population has increased significantly and take appropriate measures to address the problem.

According to Bano, children, elderly people and women are among those who feel particularly vulnerable while visiting schools, colleges, agricultural fields, mosques,and other places for their daily activities.

Srinagar, Sep 8: The picturesque Sonamarg resort has emerged as one of the major attractions for visitors to Kashmir this year, recording more than 6 lakh above tourist arrivals during the first eight months of 2026, indicating a strong recovery in the Valley’s tourism sector.

Official figures shared by the Tourism Police show that 617,269 visitors travelled to Sonamarg between January 1 and August 31. The numbers include domestic and international tourists as well as visitors from within Jammu and Kashmir.

The subsequent coordinated efforts by the government, tourism stakeholders and travel agencies gradually helped restore confidence among prospective visitors. Travel representatives from different parts of the country also visited Jammu and Kashmir and promoted the Valley as a tourist destination.

The renewed movement of visitors has provided a much-needed boost to the local economy. With hotels, restaurants, transport services and other tourism-linked businesses witnessing increased activity, several workers who had earlier lost employment opportunities have also returned to work.

The Tourism Police data indicates that Sonamarg received 373,348 domestic tourists, 8,947 foreign visitors and 234,974 local visitors during the January-August period.

The resort recorded 115,320 visitors in January, including 86,523 domestic tourists, 1,379 foreigners and 27,418 local visitors.

In February, the combined footfall stood at 111,455, comprising 48,594 domestic, 1,633 foreign and 61,228 local visitors. March saw 39,081 visitors, while April recorded 50,957 arrivals.

The tourist rush increased during May and June, when Sonamarg received 75,085 and 84,223 visitors, respectively.

July witnessed a comparatively lower tourist turnout, with 43,960 visitors, while August recorded 26,390 arrivals.

The figures show that the resort continued to attract visitors throughout the season, with its snow-covered peaks, green meadows, river streams and surrounding mountain landscape remaining major attractions.

Jammu, Sep 8: Northern Railway’s Jammu Division has extended the operational period of the weekly Chhapra-Pathankot-Chhapra special train to meet the expected surge in passenger demand during the festive season.

Train No. 05193 from Chhapra to Pathankot will operate every Monday from October 5 to November 23, 2026, completing eight additional trips. In the return direction, Train No. 05194 from Pathankot to Chhapra will run every Wednesday from October 7 to November 25, also making eight trips.

The extension will benefit passengers from Pathankot, Jammu Division and adjoining areas travelling towards Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, particularly during Diwali and Chhath Puja. Railway authorities said the additional services would help ease pressure on regular trains and improve the chances of passengers securing confirmed tickets.

Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, Uchit Singhal said the extension was aimed at providing greater passenger convenience during the festive rush.

Passengers have been advised to check updated timings and halts through the Railway’s National Train Enquiry System (139), NTES app or official railway website before travelling.

Srinagar, Sep 08: Five films, helmed by directors from Jammu and Kashmir, have been selected for the J&K Select Section, the competitive category of the first International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK), 2026.

The films were recommended by the Preview Committee constituted for the festival, following a review of submissions and assessment of their artistic merit and suitability for the competitive section. The selection reflects a diverse range of narratives, genres and perspectives, with a particular focus on stories rooted in Jammu and Kashmir's cultural heritage, social realities and human experiences.

The selected films include 'Searching for the Grandpa', directed by Mohammad Wali; 'Arifa', directed by Rohin Ravendran Nair; 'Batt Koch (The Lost Lane)', directed by Siddarth Koul and Ankit Wali; 'Tasrufdaar (Djinns of Kashmir)', directed by Kapil Mattoo; and 'Naqsh-e-Daur (The Story of Ghulam Nabi Dhar)', directed by Baba Tassaduq Hussain.

Spanning Kashmiri and Hindi languages, the films explore themes ranging from childhood, family and memory to displacement, identity, heritage, resilience and the changing social landscape of Kashmir.

'Searching for the Grandpa' follows two young siblings in a Kashmiri village on Eid. 'Arifa' centres on a woman returning to her ancestral home in Kashmir and confronting memories of her childhood and father. 'Batt Koch' explores displacement, identity and the enduring idea of home through the story of a Kashmiri migrant family. 'Tasrufdaar (Djinns of Kashmir)' weaves together mystery, memory and the scars of Kashmir's past, while 'Naqsh-e-Daur' portrays the life and legacy of a Padma Shri-honoured woodcarver in downtown Srinagar, highlighting Kashmir's craftsmanship, heritage and resilience.

The selected films will form part of the competitive programming of the four-day International Film Festival, offering audiences and filmmakers an opportunity to engage with distinctive cinematic voices and stories from Jammu and Kashmir.

Srinagar, Sep 08: The second day of the first International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026 witnessed a series of film screenings and interactive sessions with prominent filmmakers and members of the industry at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) here on Tuesday.

Several films, including 'The Last Rites', 'Sudden Rise', 'The God Who Is Close', 'Arifa', 'Stone Beach' and 'In the Name of Fire', were screened for film enthusiasts and delegates as part of the festival programme.

The day also featured an interaction session with filmmaker Sriram Raghavan and cinematographer Anil Mehta, who engaged with movie buffs and students and discussed various aspects of filmmaking, cinema and the craft of visual storytelling.

Members of the film industry, including filmmakers Rahat Kazmi and Kapil Mattoo and actor Mir Sarwar, were also present at the venue. They interacted with media persons and spoke about the significance of holding a major international film festival in Jammu and Kashmir.

The festival venues witnessed a strong turnout of visitors, film lovers, delegates and students, reflecting the growing interest in cinema and the festival’s programme.

A student who attended the session said the interaction with experienced filmmakers offered a valuable opportunity to understand the nuances of filmmaking and gain insights directly from professionals in the industry. 

“The festival has given students like us an opportunity to interact with people we usually see only on screen. Listening to their experiences and understanding their approach to filmmaking was a great learning experience,” the student said.

Screenings and other festival activities are being held at multiple venues, including SKICC and INOX in Srinagar, besides venues in Gulmarg and Jammu.

The four-day festival was inaugurated on Monday by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and will conclude on September 10. 

According to the organisers, the festival received an overwhelming response from filmmakers across the world, with more than 1,100 film entries received from 80 countries. A total of 135 films are being showcased during the festival.

The IFFJK has brought together filmmakers, actors, directors, cinematographers, technicians and other professionals from India and abroad, providing a platform for showcasing diverse cinematic works and facilitating interaction between filmmakers, students and audiences.

The festival is also aimed at strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s connection with the global film industry and promoting the region as a destination for film production and tourism.

Srinagar, Sep 08: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired a meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review the progress of languishing projects under the Revenue Department across Jammu and Kashmir, with particular focus on expediting the completion of mini-secretariat buildings and addressing bottlenecks delaying execution of these projects. CM took serious view of the delay in completion of ongoing buildings and delay in project planning, obtaining approvals and execution of new buildings.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Financial Commissioner Revenue J&K Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary Finance Shailendra Kumar, Secretary Revenue, Divisional Commissioners Jammu/Kashmir, Deputy Commissioners of Pulwama, Rajouri, Poonch, Baramulla and Srinagar, besides other concerned officers. Outstation officers attended the meeting through video conferencing.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister was briefed on the status of ongoing Mini Secretariat projects at Mendhar, Poonch, Rajouri and Akhnoor in Jammu division, and Tral, Dooru, Batamaloo and Tangmarg in Kashmir division.

Taking serious note of the slow pace of work, the Chief Minister expressed his displeasure over the delays and directed the concerned departments and district administrations to take all necessary measures to remove bottlenecks and ensure commencement of work on stalled and new projects within one month.

The Chief Minister stressed the need for time-bound execution of the projects and directed the concerned officers to ensure strict compliance with the directions issued during the meeting.

He also called for standardisation of works and facilities across all Mini Secretariats so that these administrative complexes are developed with some uniformity in design and functionality and provide improved services and facilities to the staff and public in all districts.

Every Teachers' Day, we celebrate the indispensable role of teachers in shaping society. We honour them as mentors, guides and nation-builders. However, celebration should also invite reflection. What kind of teacher does contemporary society encourage? More importantly, what kind of teacher does democracy require?

The German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche offers an unexpected but illuminating framework through his distinction between the Übermensch (Overman) and the Last Man. While these ideas emerged in a different historical context, they provide a powerful metaphor for understanding the changing nature of teaching today.

The Last Man, in Nietzsche's philosophy, is not an immoral person. Rather, the Last Man chooses comfort over courage, conformity over creativity, and approval over excellence. Content with security and social acceptance, such a person avoids risk, conflict and difficult questions. The Overman, by contrast, is defined by continual self-overcoming. The Overman questions inherited assumptions, creates new possibilities and refuses to allow comfort to replace intellectual growth.

The distinction is not between good and bad teachers. It is between two educational cultures.

Across the world, higher education and schooling are increasingly shaped by market-oriented reforms, performance indicators, student satisfaction metrics, accreditation frameworks and institutional branding. These developments have undoubtedly expanded access and accountability.

Teachers are increasingly expected to satisfy stakeholders, minimise complaints, produce measurable outcomes and maintain favourable evaluations. Success is often quantified through feedback scores, pass percentages, employability statistics and institutional rankings. While these indicators have administrative value, they cannot fully capture the transformative purpose of education.

Education is not just the transmission of information. Its deeper purpose is the cultivation of independent judgment.

This requires teachers who are willing to ask unsettling questions, challenge intellectual complacency and expose students to ideas that may initially be uncomfortable. Genuine learning rarely occurs without some degree of cognitive discomfort. It demands that students reconsider assumptions, confront contradictions and engage with perspectives different from their own.

However, an educational culture centred primarily on satisfaction can unintentionally discourage precisely these practices. A teacher who fears poor evaluations may avoid difficult discussions. A curriculum designed around measurable outcomes may leave little room for experimentation. Intellectual risk gradually gives way to pedagogical safety.

In this sense, Nietzsche's metaphor becomes relevant. The concern is not that teachers themselves have become "Last Men", but that educational institutions increasingly reward Last Man qualities: predictability instead of originality, compliance instead of critical inquiry and managerial efficiency instead of philosophical imagination.

Teachers should not be reduced to service providers in a competitive marketplace. Their responsibility extends beyond delivering content or preparing students for examinations. They are custodians of curiosity, critical thinking and democratic dialogue. A teacher's highest achievement is not to produce agreement but to cultivate the intellectual confidence to disagree thoughtfully.

This is particularly significant in an age shaped by artificial intelligence, algorithmic recommendation systems and instant access to information. Facts are increasingly available at the click of a button. What remains uniquely human is the capacity to interpret, question, synthesise and exercise ethical judgment. These capacities cannot be automated; they must be nurtured by teachers who themselves embody intellectual courage.

Teachers, however, cannot shoulder this responsibility alone. Educational policy must create conditions that allow them to innovate without fear, experiment without penalty and engage students in meaningful dialogue without reducing every educational outcome to a numerical indicator. Professional autonomy is not a privilege for teachers; it is a prerequisite for quality education.

On Teachers' Day, therefore, the challenge is not merely to celebrate teachers but to ask whether our educational institutions empower them to become creators of minds rather than managers of performance.

Nietzsche believed that civilisation advances when individuals possess the courage to overcome inherited limitations and imagine new possibilities. Education requires precisely such courage. The teacher who merely satisfies expectations preserves the present. The teacher who inspires students to question, create and think independently helps shape the future.

The greatest tribute we can pay teachers is not only to honour their work but also to create an educational culture that rewards intellectual courage over conformity, critical inquiry over comfort and self-overcoming over complacency. If education is to remain a transformative public institution, it must continue to nurture teachers who aspire to the spirit of the Overman rather than settle for the ease of the Last Man.

(The author is teaching Political Sociology at UILS, Chandigarh University, Punjab. Feedback: ashwinsociology@gmail.com)

Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, participate and live with dignity. Early diagnosis is not merely a medical process it is the first step toward understanding a child’s needs and protecting their future. When developmental concerns are identified early, children can receive timely intervention, appropriate education, rehabilitation services and family support. However, the diagnosis of a child with special needs should never depend on the opinion of a single Rehab professional alone. A comprehensive and multidisciplinary assessment is essential for the best interest of the child.

A diagnosis should accurately reflect the child's developmental profile and should be clearly communicated to parents, with appropriate recommendations for intervention and support. When assessments are incomplete, delayed or contradictory, the consequences can be serious. An incorrect or inconsistent diagnosis can affect a child's access to education, therapy, disability certification, social protection and long-term opportunities.

A few weeks ago, a parent of a child with special needs contacted me seeking information and assistance regarding how to apply for the monthly disability pension. During our conversation, he informed me that his four-year-old daughter had been diagnosed with Down syndrome with ID in Disability Certificate. 

The parent told me that he had visited a Central Government institute working for persons with disabilities to obtain a comprehensive psychological assessment of his 4-year-old daughter. According to him, the clinical psychologist’s report mentioned an “impression of Mild Autism” and the psychologist recommended reassessment after 6 months.   

The parent informed me that he was confused by the initial assessment, in which the psychologist had mentioned “Mild Autism.” Therefore, he decided to seek a second opinion. He subsequently visited a Government hospital, where another psychologist conducted a comprehensive psychological assessment. According to the parent, the second assessment mentioned “Down Syndrome with Intellectual Disability (ID)” in the report. 

Subsequently, the parent approached a Senior Resource Person (Rehabilitation Therapist) from the Government Education Department for an independent assessment of the child. The parent reported to me that the Resource Person also recorded “Down Syndrome with Intellectual Disability (ID)” in the relevant official records. This further reinforced the parent’s understanding that the child’s condition was consistent with Down syndrome with Intellectual disability.  

Following these multiple assessments and supporting documents, the parent approached the CMO Medical Disability Board for Disability Certificate. The child was examined by a multidisciplinary panel comprising a Physician, orthopedician Specialist, Ophthalmologist, ENT Specialist, and Senior Psychiatrist. The Board reviewed the available assessment reports and other relevant medical documents before conducting its evaluation. Subsequently, the child’s Disability Certificate recorded the diagnosis as “Down Syndrome with Intellectual Disability.” The parent was further informed that, according to the Board’s assessment, the child did not have Mild Autism.   

In the best interests of the child with special needs, and with the objective of ensuring appropriate assessment, intervention, and future support for other children with special needs who may be assessed by the same psychologists at these government institutions and the Government hospital, as well as ensuring that eligible children receive accurate disability certification from the competent Disability Board, I approached the concerned authorities and offices to ascertain the facts and circumstances surrounding the conflicting assessments. 

My objective was to establish the factual position, ensure that the child receives an accurate disability certificate and appropriate support and services, and help prevent similar discrepancies from adversely affecting other children with special needs and their families in the future.   

First, I approached the psychologist at the concerned Government Hospital and discussed the case with her. She was very cooperative and explained that she had conducted an assessment of the child and subsequently carried out follow-up assessments to further understand the child’s developmental and clinical profile and arrive at an appropriate diagnostic conclusion. According to her, following these assessments and follow-up observations, she concluded that the child had Down Syndrome with Intellectual Disability. She further stated that, if there were any concerns or doubts regarding the assessment or diagnosis, the child could be referred for a reassessment. 

I also approached the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and the Deputy Director of Health Services, Kashmir, regarding the issue. They informed me that they would share the contact details of the doctors associated with the Disability Board. Subsequently, I received the list of doctors associated with the Board and contacted one of the doctors to discuss the child’s case, including the discrepancy between the diagnosis recorded in the psychological assessments and the diagnosis subsequently reflected in the Disability Certificate.

During the discussion, the doctor informed me that the members of the Disability Board had reviewed the available reports and, based on their assessment, recorded “Down Syndrome with Intellectual Disability (ID)” in the Disability Certificate. I also informed the doctor that a psychologist at another institution had reportedly mentioned “Mild Autism.” 

In response, the doctor stated that it was possible that the assessment mentioning Mild Autism may have been conducted by an intern at that institution. He further stated that, if a clinical psychologist identifies autistic characteristics in a child with Down syndrome, it may, depending on the assessment and available clinical evidence, be more appropriate to document “autistic features” rather than conclusively recording “Mild Autism,” particularly where a definitive diagnosis has not been established through a comprehensive assessment.  

The doctor further stated that, according to his professional experience, the co-occurrence of Autism Spectrum Disorder in children with Down syndrome is relatively rare, and that he had encountered only a limited number of such cases. He stated that, in this particular case, the Disability Board recorded “Down Syndrome with Intellectual Disability (ID)” based on its assessment and the available reports. The doctor was cooperative and expressed his willingness to provide further professional guidance or clarification regarding the matter, if required.

Lastly, I also approached the Director of the institution where the Clinical Psychologist had reportedly mentioned “Mild Autism” in the child’s psychological assessment. However, despite my repeated attempts, the Director did not respond to my telephone calls or WhatsApp messages. 

Thereafter, I approached the Head of the concerned unit, who requested me to provide the child’s name and CRR number. She advised me to approach all the institutions and organisations where the child had been assessed and from which the child had received psychological assessment reports and a Disability Certificate. I informed her that I had already approached the concerned offices and authorities in this regard.

She advised me to obtain the relevant reports and responses from the other concerned offices and forward them for further examination; only then can something be done. She also stated that the child could be reassessed by their institution and informed me that the parents had again been contacted and advised to bring the child for reassessment. Instead of conducting any verification regarding the “Mild Autism” assessment report, she stated that the Clinical Psychologist had written and recorded an observation that was consistent with what the parent had reported. She further informed me that, for any further clarification or enquiry in the matter, I could approach the Director of the institution. 

This situation raises an important concern: how can a four-year-old child receive different clinical impressions from different professionals, and what safeguards are in place to ensure that a child's diagnosis is accurate, consistent and based on a comprehensive assessment? 

When assessments differ significantly, parents are left confused and emotionally disturbed, while the consequences may extend beyond diagnosis. Such discrepancies can potentially affect access to disability certification, pension and social-security benefits, inclusive education, rehabilitation, early intervention and other essential services. 

I spoke with Ms Hema Gowri, a senior rehabilitation professional with more than 25 years of experience in the disability sector, regarding concerns surrounding the assessment of children with special needs. She explained that disability services may broadly involve three approaches to professional collaboration: multidisciplinary, Interdisciplinary, and Trans disciplinary approaches.

In a multidisciplinary approach, professionals work independently within their respective areas of expertise and provide separate assessments, with limited coordination or information-sharing among team members. In an interdisciplinary approach, professionals share information and discuss the child’s needs, while each continues to work within their own respective professional roles. In a Trans disciplinary approach, professionals work as an integrated team, share responsibilities and knowledge across disciplines, and maintain a higher level of coordination in order to provide comprehensive support to the child. She said, however, that interdisciplinary teams are very useful. 

She further referred to the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), launched in 2013, under which different health professionals follow an interdisciplinary approach, working together for the screening, early identification, assessment, and referral of children requiring support. She emphasised that, particularly in cases involving children with disabilities, effective coordination and information-sharing among professionals are essential to minimise conflicting assessments and to ensure that decisions regarding the child’s education, intervention, rehabilitation, and future support are based on a comprehensive understanding of the child’s needs. Therefore, a coordinated, child-centred, and interdisciplinary approach should be followed, with the best interests of the child kept at the forefront.  

Ms Hema Gowri also said under the 2024 Gazette new assessment Guidelines, the clinical psychologist must resist rushing into diagnostic labelling based on a single encounter. Instead, they should transition toward a multi-method, comprehensive assessment battery to prevent the premature categorisation of applicants based on isolated numeric scores generated during a single, time-constrained clinic session. 

For a child with special needs, a diagnosis is not merely a label; it can significantly influence the support, interventions, services, educational provisions, and opportunities available to the child throughout childhood and beyond. Therefore, assessments must be conducted carefully, objectively, and in the child’s best interests. Where appropriate, assessment and diagnostic decisions should also involve meaningful collaboration and professional coordination among the rehabilitation professionals working with the child, so that the child’s developmental profile, functional needs, and individual circumstances are comprehensively considered.

One child cannot have two conflicting clinical realities without a clear explanation. When a psychological assessment records “Mild Autism” while the Disability Certificate records “Down Syndrome with Intellectual Disability,” the contradiction demands transparent clinical review, proper documentation, and accountability.

The real question is not merely “Who made the mistake?” but “Who is responsible for ensuring that the child receives an accurate, coordinated, and evidence-based assessment?” Conflicting diagnoses can affect a child’s education, therapies, rehabilitation, benefits, and long-term future.

A child’s rights must never become the casualty of poor coordination between Rehab professionals or institutions. Every assessment must be evidence-based, every discrepancy must be investigated, and every decision must be guided by one principle: the best interests of the child.

(The author is a Sr. Pediatric Rehab Therapist & Social Worker (MSW) working for Child & Disability Rights. Feedback: zaheerjan2019@gmail.com)

Srinagar, Sep 8: The second UT-level Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting on narcotics control for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh was held at the Police Control Room in Srinagar on Tuesday, with enforcement agencies calling for stronger coordination to combat drug trafficking networks.

The meeting was chaired by the DDG (NWR), Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and IG Crime/ANTF of J&K Police. Senior officers from the ED, BSF, State Drug Controller, IB, Customs, DRI, Income Tax, NIA and police, including SSPs of Jammu, Srinagar and Ganderbal, participated.

The agencies discussed emerging trends in drug trafficking, inter-State linkages, illicit cultivation, information sharing, joint investigations, financial probes and effective prosecution.

Officials also reviewed measures for implementing the Vision Document on Drug Control (2026–2029) announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the 10th apex-level NCORD meeting in New Delhi on June 26.

The meeting stressed a network-centric approach, along with greater inter-agency coordination, joint interrogation, financial investigation and use of information-sharing mechanisms. 

The meeting concluded with a call for sustained cooperation and a whole-of-government approach to detect, disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking networks across J&K and Ladakh.

Srinagar, Sep 8: The September 9 swearing-in of Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati as Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh will have a first-of-its-kind dimension for the Union Territory of Ladakh, with Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena set to administer the oath of office.

Top official sources told Rising Kashmir that the ceremony is scheduled to be held at the Convention Centre in Srinagar at 11 am. The move assumes significance as Vinai Kumar Saxena will be the first Ladakh Lieutenant Governor to administer the oath to the Chief Justice of the common High Court after Ladakh attained Union Territory status in 2019.

The unprecedented oath-taking arrangement comes at a significant juncture for Ladakh’s judicial system, particularly after a new regulation providing for the sitting of a Bench of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh in the Union Territory came into force on September 5.

Ladakh LG Saxena before a week had announced the implementation of the regulation in a post on X, describing it as a major step towards bringing judicial services closer to the people, especially those residing in remote and difficult-to-reach areas.

He said the move would help litigants save valuable time and resources and would further strengthen access to justice across Ladakh.

The LG had also expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu for promulgating the regulation and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for their continued support for the inclusive development of Ladakh.

Against this backdrop, Justice Bhati’s assumption of office is being viewed as another important development for the common judiciary of the two Union Territories.

President Droupadi Murmu appointed Justice Bhati as Chief Justice on September 5 following the recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium made on August 31. The appointment notification stated that he would assume office from the date he takes charge.

Justice Bhati will succeed Justice Sanjeev Kumar, who has been functioning as Acting Chief Justice since June 2.

A judge of the Rajasthan High Court, Justice Bhati was elevated to the Bench on November 16, 2016, and brings substantial judicial experience to his new assignment.

While Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have separate administrative establishments, they continue to have a common High Court. The recent provision for a Bench to sit in Ladakh is expected to make judicial proceedings more accessible to residents of the Union Territory. 

The September 9 ceremony will therefore carry significance beyond the formal change of leadership, with the Ladakh Lieutenant Governor administering the oath for the first time since the Union Territory came into existence in 2019, even as the region moves towards greater institutional access to the common High Court.

In Kashmir, weddings have always been more than private ceremonies. They are social events, family milestones and moments of joy that bring together relatives, neighbours and communities. But in recent years, the scale and expense of these celebrations have grown into a quiet burden, especially for middle-class and low-income families. What was once a simple and dignified occasion is increasingly being turned into a display of wealth, status and social competition. The problem is not celebration itself. Kashmiris have every right to rejoice, to mark important occasions with warmth and hospitality, and to preserve their cultural traditions. The concern arises when weddings become extravagant beyond reason, with lavish venues, excessive food, imported décor, costly attire, multi-day functions and pressure to keep up with others. For many families, this is no longer a matter of choice but of compulsion. They fear social judgement if they keep things modest, and in that fear, they stretch themselves beyond their means. The result is predictable and painful. Families go into debt, sell assets, take loans or drain savings meant for education, healthcare or future security. In some cases, parents spend years recovering financially from a single wedding. Young couples begin married life under the shadow of financial strain. This is hardly the foundation for a stable household or a healthy society. Equally worrying is the social message this sends. Lavish weddings create an unhealthy culture in which worth is measured by spectacle rather than sincerity. They deepen inequality by making ordinary families feel inadequate. They also place unnecessary pressure on young people, especially in a region where unemployment and economic uncertainty already weigh heavily on households. In such conditions, extravagance is not merely indulgence; it becomes a form of collective social harm. There is also a moral dimension that cannot be ignored. Kashmir’s religious, cultural and ethical traditions have long favoured moderation, dignity and restraint. A wedding should be memorable for its blessings, not for the size of its budget. The true beauty of marriage lies in the union it represents, not in the money spent to impress guests. When customs begin to overshadow values, it is time for society to pause and reflect. This is where community leadership matters. Religious scholars, elders, social organisations and local influencers must speak clearly in favour of simplicity. Families should be encouraged to reject needless showmanship and to treat modest weddings not as a compromise but as a virtue. Public opinion must shift so that a simple wedding is respected, not mocked. If the Valley can normalise restraint, it can relieve countless households of pressure and preserve the spirit of celebration. Lavish weddings may offer a few hours of admiration, but they can leave behind years of financial stress. Kashmir needs to rediscover the dignity of simplicity. A wedding should unite families in joy, not divide them through debt and competition.

The international conference on “Plant Resilience in a Changing Climate: From Molecules to Ecosystem” hosted by the University of Kashmir’s Department of Botany has done more than bring scientists and scholars together; it has once again placed before us a truth that can no longer be ignored. Climate change is no longer a distant environmental concern to be discussed in global forums with abstract language and polished declarations. It is already altering the rhythm of life in the Himalayas, reshaping crops, disturbing ecosystems and challenging the very basis of agriculture in a region that depends heavily on its fragile natural balance. What makes the KU conference important is not merely its academic scope, but the clarity of the alarm sounded by the experts who participated in it. Their message was simple: the changes are visible, measurable and worsening. Crop calendars are shifting. Harvesting periods are no longer what they used to be. The quality and storage life of produce are being affected. Ecosystems that once followed predictable biological patterns are now under stress. In a region like Kashmir, where agriculture, horticulture and natural resources remain central to livelihoods, such disruptions are not minor adjustments. They are warning signs. Prof. Nilofer Khan rightly stressed that universities and research institutions have a crucial responsibility in generating knowledge that helps communities adapt to rapidly changing environmental conditions. That responsibility is especially heavy in the Himalayan region, where ecological sensitivity makes every climatic shift more consequential. Her emphasis on translating scientific knowledge into practical interventions — from seed improvement and appropriate plant cultivation to sustainable practices and stronger research collaborations — should serve as a roadmap not only for academics, but also for policymakers. The challenge, however, is that climate change is often treated in narrow terms, as if it were only an environmental issue. As Prof. Bashir Ahmad Ganai pointed out, its implications extend far beyond nature and must be understood in their wider social and developmental context. That is where much of the policy failure lies. Climate stress does not remain confined to scientific reports. It enters the lives of farmers, changes market outcomes, affects food security and deepens rural uncertainty. Any response that ignores this larger picture will remain incomplete. The caution sounded by Dr Mahendra Kumar Verma about changes in the biological calendar of crops is equally significant. Kashmir’s agriculture has already begun to feel the pressure of altered seasons, erratic weather and changing temperature patterns. Technology and predictive modelling can certainly help, but they must be backed by seriousness at the level of planning and implementation. Without timely adaptation, farming systems will continue to be exposed to avoidable losses. The conference is therefore timely, but it must not end as a ceremonial exchange of ideas. It should lead to sustained collaboration, field-based research and practical strategies that strengthen resilience at every level — from the laboratory to the farm, from the classroom to the policy table. The Himalayas cannot afford complacency. If the region is to preserve its crops, protect its ecosystems and secure its future, climate action must move from discussion to decisive action.

In the golden days of our youth, an unwritten code governed the lanes. If two friends, or even total strangers, walked together and a glint of a lost coin or currency note appeared on the ground, a race of wit began.

The moment the finder reached down, the companion would shout with spontaneous force: "Addas Kaballa!" In our native Kashmiri, this phrase meant "Half of it is mine." It was a rule.

The finder, by cultural law, would immediately and willingly split the prize. It was a shared blessing.Fast forward to a vibrant recent wedding. As the groom arrived for the reception, he was garlanded with crisp hundred-rupee notes.

In the hustle, the thread broke, and the entire garland fell to the earth. A group of older friends, walking behind the groom, saw it happen. An instant memory ignited. One elderly gentleman shouted, "Addas Kaballa!" His friend, smiling at the flash of their childhood, immediately picked up the money and handed him an exact half.

A group of younger boys, perhaps fifteen, rushed over, eager to claim a piece of the "booty." But when they tried to speak to the elders, a quiet tragedy unfurled. Their words were fractured, a clumsy mix of "home-induced Urdu" and a few forgotten words, spoken with a modern twang that rendered them incomprehensible.

They were, in the stark idiom, falling down between the two stools.The wise elder offered a challenge: "I will gladly give you my entire share—the whole thing—if you can simply ask for it using the core phrase: 'Addas chuiey kaballa.

'"The boys tried. They muttered, mispronounced, and garbled the sounds. Not one could utter it correctly. They had been encouraged to abandon their mother tongue in homes and schools, pushing for a 'foreign' language they could not master, while losing the 'sweet and rich' language that defined their roots. So the game, and the entire booty, was lost to them.This incident, both funny and heartbreaking, is a mirror to our current crisis. The broken, "fractured Urdu" our next generation now speaks is our Addas Kaballa—half-understood, half-uttered, leaving us with neither.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with learning other languages; multilingualism is a great strength. But in discarding our mother tongue to adopt a foreign one, in "owning it" as our primary identity, we commit the "suicide of an unsound mind.

"Linguists estimate that of the roughly 7,000 languages spoken worldwide, nearly half are endangered and may disappear by the end of this century.

They vanish when a language, once vibrant, stops being passed to children at home, or when communities, for reasons often rooted in economic pressure or self-loathing, "hate their own language.

"When a language dies, we lose its unique folk wisdom, proverbs, oral history, and humour. We are not just heading toward a world where children can’t speak to their grandparents;

we are creating a generation linguistically adrift, disconnected from the very phrases that, in our youth, could claim a fair share of any treasure. 

We are allowing a sweet, rich legacy to become a laughing stock. To reclaim our future, we must begin to value the language that already belongs to us.

(The author is a former civil servant from the administrative service. Email: nisargilani57748@gmail.com)

Kashmir Valley stands at a difficult but decisive turning point. The pressure of population growth, unplanned expansion, traffic congestion, housing demand, shrinking green spaces, and climate stress has turned urban planning from a technical issue into a question of survival. If cities and towns in the Valley continue to expand in a fragmented and careless manner, the cost will not only be visible in jammed roads and concrete sprawl, but also in polluted water, weakened drainage, vanishing farmland, and a slow erosion of the Valley’s natural charm. Future sustainable urban planning in Kashmir must therefore be based on balance — between development and ecology, between modern needs and local realities, and between ambition and restraint.

The idea of sustainability in Kashmir cannot be borrowed blindly from elsewhere. Urban planning here has to respond to the Valley’s unique geography, climate, and cultural setting. Unlike plains where cities can spread outward with relative ease, Kashmir is a compact ecological basin enclosed by mountains, rivers, wetlands, orchards, and fertile land. Every piece of land carries value. Every wetland has a function. Every stream, road, and hillside is part of a larger environmental system. This means the future of urban planning in Kashmir cannot be measured only in terms of roads built, buildings raised, or commercial complexes approved. It must be judged by whether the Valley remains livable, resilient, and beautiful for generations to come.

One of the most urgent needs is to stop the habit of unregulated horizontal expansion. Towns and peri-urban areas are consuming agricultural land at a frightening pace. Orchards are being cut, wetlands filled, and low-lying areas converted into colonies without adequate drainage or planning. This kind of growth may look profitable in the short term, but it is deeply damaging in the long run. Sustainable urban planning must protect agricultural belts and green buffers around cities. Kashmir cannot afford to treat fertile land as empty land. Once lost, such land is almost impossible to recover.

At the same time, the Valley must rethink how it builds upward. Vertical development is often presented as a solution to land scarcity, but in Kashmir it must be handled with care. High-rise construction without proper infrastructure, parking, water supply, waste management, fire safety, and disaster planning can create new problems more severe than the old ones. Sustainable urban growth is not simply about building taller structures; it is about building smarter neighbourhoods. Compact housing, mixed-use development, walkable streets, and efficient public services should replace the present pattern of scattered, road-dependent development.

Transport planning is another critical pillar. Kashmir’s cities are increasingly choking under private vehicles, narrow roads, and poor public transit. The result is not only congestion but also higher emissions, more noise, and wasted time. A sustainable urban future demands investment in reliable public transport, safe pedestrian pathways, cycling corridors, and traffic-sensitive road design. Cities like Srinagar need mobility systems that reduce dependence on private cars and make daily movement easier for ordinary people. A city is not sustainable if a short journey takes an hour because planning failed to anticipate growth.

Drainage and flood management must also be central to any future urban vision. The Valley is highly vulnerable to rainfall extremes, waterlogging, and flood risk. Yet much of urban construction has ignored natural waterways, blocked drainage channels, and weakened wetlands that once acted as buffers. Sustainable planning requires restoring and protecting those natural systems. Nallahs, lakes, streams, and marshlands should be treated as part of infrastructure, not obstacles to it. Urban design must work with water, not against it. If this lesson is not learned, the Valley will continue to face the same cycle of damage after every heavy rain.

Waste management is another area where sustainability will either succeed or fail. Rapid urban growth has outpaced scientific disposal systems, leading to garbage accumulation, plastic pollution, and public health risks. A sustainable city must separate waste at source, strengthen recycling systems, improve collection networks, and reduce dependence on open dumping. Public awareness is important, but awareness alone cannot replace a functioning municipal framework. Urban planning must include the hidden systems of sanitation, sewage treatment, and solid waste management, because a clean city is not a luxury — it is the foundation of dignity and health.

Equally important is the preservation of Kashmir’s identity. Urban planning is not only about efficiency; it is also about character. The Valley has a distinctive architectural heritage, human-scale neighbourhoods, traditional courtyards, local materials, and an aesthetic relationship with landscape that modern development often ignores. If all new construction follows the same ugly, disconnected, concrete-heavy model, Kashmir will lose not only beauty but also cultural continuity. Sustainable planning should encourage designs that respect local climate, use energy-efficient materials, preserve views, and reflect Kashmiri architectural sensibilities. Development should not mean making Kashmir look like everywhere else.

There is also a social dimension to urban sustainability. Planning must serve all sections of society, not only the powerful or the well-connected. Affordable housing, accessible public spaces, basic services, and safe neighbourhoods are essential if cities are to remain inclusive. Many urban problems in Kashmir are intensified by inequality — where some areas receive better services while others remain neglected. A sustainable city must reduce such gaps. Planning should be transparent, participatory, and fair. Residents, experts, local bodies, and civil society should all have a voice in shaping the future of their towns and cities.

Climate change adds another layer of urgency. Rising temperatures, unpredictable snowfall, altered rainfall patterns, and environmental stress are already affecting life in the Valley. Sustainable urban planning must therefore be climate-responsive. Buildings should be designed for energy efficiency and insulation. Green spaces should be expanded. Tree cover must be protected. Renewable energy should be encouraged where possible. Urban resilience is no longer optional. It is a necessity in a region where climate shocks can quickly turn into social and economic disruption.

The role of governance cannot be overlooked. Even the best planning ideas fail when implementation is weak. Kashmir needs coordination among development authorities, municipal bodies, environmental agencies, and local administration. Approvals must be based on long-term public interest rather than short-term private gain. Illegal constructions, encroachments, and violations should not be normalised. Sustainable urban planning requires rule-based development, not selective enforcement. Without accountability, every policy remains a paper promise.

Future sustainable urban planning in Kashmir Valley must also embrace a broader change in mindset. The conversation should move away from uncontrolled “growth” as an end in itself and toward quality of life as the real measure of progress. A city is not successful because it spreads endlessly; it is successful because it remains healthy, efficient, inclusive, and beautiful. In Kashmir, this principle is even more important because the land is limited and the ecological stakes are high.

The challenge is serious, but so is the opportunity. Kashmir can still shape a model of urban development that respects nature while meeting modern needs. It can build towns that are compact rather than chaotic, green rather than grey, and humane rather than hollow. For that, planning must begin now, with clarity, discipline, and vision. The future of Kashmir’s urban spaces should not be left to accident or pressure. It must be designed carefully, because once the Valley loses its balance, recovery will be far harder than prevention.

Future sustainable urban planning in Kashmir is not just about managing cities. It is about protecting a fragile homeland while preparing it for a modern future. That is the real test before planners, policymakers, and citizens alike.

(The author is a lecturer in HED, columnist and public speaker)

Srinagar, Sep 8: People’s Democratic Front (PDF) President and former minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Tuesday paid tribute to National Conference founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on his 44th death anniversary, recalling his role in Jammu and Kashmir’s political and social history.

Yaseen described Sheikh Abdullah’s dismissal and arrest in 1953 as a “historic blunder”, saying its political repercussions continued to be felt in J&K.

He said the developments of 1953 contributed to political uncertainty and alienation in the region for decades. Referring to the 1975 Sheikh-Indira Accord, Yaseen said it represented an attempt to address the political developments that had followed Sheikh Abdullah’s dismissal and restore stability.

Yaseen urged the National Conference to remain committed to Sheikh Abdullah’s legacy of safeguarding the political, economic and social interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

“The legacy of Sheikh Abdullah should not remain confined to ceremonial tributes; it should be reflected in political action and commitment to the people,” he said. 

Yaseen also called upon people to remember Sheikh Abdullah’s contribution to J&K while drawing lessons from the political developments that shaped the region’s subsequent history.

Srinagar, Sep 8: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to remove the maximum educational qualification of 10+2 prescribed for recently notified Class-IV (MTS) and sanitation worker posts.

Bukhari said the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) notification, by restricting eligibility to candidates with qualifications up to 10+2, had left thousands of graduates and postgraduates ineligible to apply.

“By prescribing a maximum qualification, the Government has effectively told thousands of young people that being more educated can make them ineligible for a government job,” Bukhari said.

He said the policy could further discourage youth from pursuing higher education at a time when college admissions have already been declining.

Bukhari urged the government to reconsider the notification and allow all otherwise eligible candidates, including 10+2 pass-outs, graduates and postgraduates, to compete for the posts. 

“The solution cannot be to close the doors of employment to those who have acquired higher qualifications,” he said.

Anantnag, Sep 8: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Tuesday urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to address the long-pending demand of veterinary students for enhancement of their internship stipend.

Reacting to the peaceful protest staged by students of SKUAST-Jammu and SKUAST-Kashmir, Inam Un Nabi while speaking to media persons at Anantnag, said the issue, pending with the Finance Department since 2023, warranted an early decision.

“The students are seeking a fair and reasonable stipend, not any preferential treatment. Their demand deserves to be considered on merit and addressed without further delay,” he said.

According to the Jammu & Kashmir Veterinary Students Association, interns at the two universities currently receive ₹6,000 per month for six months and ₹9,000 for the remaining six months, including an additional ₹3,000 contributed by ICAR. The association has cited significantly higher stipends at several veterinary institutions across the country.

Inam Un Nabi said the disparity should be examined by the concerned authorities, particularly in view of the clinical training, field work and emergency duties involved in veterinary internships.

Inam Un Nabi also referred to the Veterinary Council of India’s communication dated May 19, 2026, cited by the students, and urged the administration to review the pending proposal and take a time-bound decision. 

Inam Un Nabi said the veterinary students’ protest comes amid ongoing stipend-related agitation by MBBS and BDS interns in Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring the need for a broader review of internship stipends across professional health and veterinary institutions.

Kulgam, Sep 08: MLA Kulgam M.Y. Tarigami on Tuesday chaired a meeting of the Rogi Kalyan Samiti (RKS) at the Mini Secretariat, Kulgam, convened by the Health Department to review the functioning of District Hospital Kulgam and deliberate upon measures for further strengthening healthcare infrastructure and patient-care services.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Shahzad Alam, Chief Medical Officer Kulgam Dr. Showkat Ahmad Parray, Medical Superintendent District Hospital Kulgam Dr. Syed Masood, besides senior officers and representatives of the Health Department.

At the outset, Medical Superintendent District Hospital Kulgam Dr. Syed Masood gave a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the hospital's performance, healthcare facilities and patient-care services during 2026–27.

He informed the meeting that six operation theatres are presently functional at the hospital, while two additional operation theatres are expected to become operational shortly. He said the additional facilities would help reduce the waiting time for surgeries and further improve surgical services.

The Medical Superintendent further informed that the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) unit and High Dependency Unit (HDU) are expected to become operational within 15 days. The executing agency was directed to complete all pending works within the stipulated timeframe.

The meeting was informed that District Hospital Kulgam recorded more than 2.60 lakh OPD visits and 8,294 IPD admissions during the period under review.

The hospital also performed 851 major surgeries, 991 LSCS (Caesarean deliveries) and 533 minor surgeries, reflecting the growing capacity of the institution to provide specialized healthcare services at the district level.

The presentation further highlighted that referrals from the hospital remained minimal, indicating the availability of a wide range of medical and surgical services locally and reducing the need for patients to travel outside the district for treatment.

The committee held detailed discussions on various issues concerning the functioning of healthcare institutions, availability of medicines and medical equipment, patient-care facilities, infrastructure development and other requirements aimed at improving healthcare delivery across the district.

The members also reviewed the ongoing activities and initiatives being undertaken under the Rogi Kalyan Samiti and discussed measures for optimal utilization of available resources and provision of better facilities to patients. Several new projects aimed at further strengthening and developing the hospital were also approved.

CMO Kulgam briefed the meeting on the functioning of various health institutions and apprised the members of requirements and issues requiring attention.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Tarigami emphasized the need for further strengthening healthcare infrastructure and ensuring quality, accessible and patient-friendly healthcare services. 

DC Kulgam said the figures reflect the growing patient footfall at District Hospital Kulgam and the expanding range of healthcare services being provided locally, enabling people to access treatment closer to their homes.

Srinagar, September 8: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Tuesday described Jammu and Kashmir as being in a “critical phase”, saying the developments of August 2019 marked a major turning point for the erstwhile state.

Addressing an event at the party headquarters in Srinagar, where several political and social activists from the Hazratbal constituency joined the Apni Party, Bukhari criticised what he described as the silence of traditional political leadership following the abrogation of J&K’s special constitutional status and statehood.

Bukhari said the changes made in August 2019 had affected what he termed J&K’s exclusive rights over land and employment. He claimed the Apni Party subsequently engaged with the Centre and contributed to the restoration of protections for local residents.

“This was the Apni Party’s contribution at that critical juncture,” he said.

On the domicile issue, Bukhari said that had the Apni Party received a mandate in the 2024 Assembly elections, it would have sought to increase the residency requirement from 15 to 50 years.

He also criticised the present government for, according to him, failing to raise the issue despite six years having passed.

Welcoming the new entrants, Bukhari assured them of the party leadership’s support and urged them to work for the welfare of people in their respective areas. 

Among those who joined the party were Khair-ul-Nisa, Ghulam Mohammad Rather, Adil Fayaz, Fazil Fayaz, Waheeda Ji, Naira Bano, Gulshana Ji, Fayaz Ahmad Bhat, Sajid Fayaz, Asif Ali, Abdul Rashid, Owais Israr and Nayeema Rather, among others.