Health

Enrolment In Govt Schools Fell By Nearly 86 Lakh Between 2023-24 And 2025-26: MoE Report

New Delhi, Jul 7: Enrolment in government schools fell by nearly 86 lakh between 2023-24 and 2025-26 while private unaided recognised schools added more than 88 lakh students during the same period, according to the UDISE 2025-26 report released by the Ministry of Education. UDISE+ (Unified District Information System for Education Plus) is the Centre’s…

Enrolment In Govt Schools Fell By Nearly 86 Lakh Between 2023-24 And 2025-26: MoE Report
Health National
Jaishankar Meets Chinese VP; Says Normalisation Of Ties Can Produce Mutually Beneficial Outcomes
Health International National

Jaishankar Meets Chinese VP; Says Normalisation Of Ties Can Produce Mutually Beneficial Outcomes

Beijing, Jul 14: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday conveyed to Chinese Vice President Han Zheng that continued normalisation of India-China ties can produce mutually beneficial outcomes and an open exchange of views between the two sides is “very important” considering the “complex” global scenario. The external affairs minister held talks with Zheng shortly…

Amit Shah Reviews Security Along Indo-Pak Border, Airports With Top Officials

New Delhi, May 9: Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday reviewed the prevailing situation along India’s border with Pakistan and airports in the country amid the military conflict between the two countries, sources said. The meeting came hours after the Border Security Force said it has foiled an infiltration bid from across the International Border…

Amit Shah Reviews Security Along Indo-Pak Border, Airports With Top Officials
Health National
Govt committed to offer 200 units free electricity: CM Omar Abdullah
Health Jammu and Kashmir National

Govt committed to offer 200 units free electricity: CM Omar Abdullah

JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said that Jammu and Kashmir aims to achieve self-sufficiency in power generation in next two years, ensuring a reliable electricity supply, and that the government was committed to offering 200 units of free electricity. He said Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation was prioritizing the development of hydroelectric…

Business

Modi Took many Path Breaking Decisions For Martyrs’ Welfare: Dr Jitendra
header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

Modi Took many Path Breaking Decisions For Martyrs’ Welfare: Dr Jitendra

SAMBA, Oct 27 : In contrast to previous governments, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration is extremely sensitive to and concerned about the welfare of the armed forces and their martyrs, according to Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who stated today that Modi has made several ground-breaking decisions for the welfare of martyrs over the last nine years. According to him, no other government has launched as many welfare programmes and benefits to support the families of martyrs as it has in the past nine years."Although the nation and the family cannot be repaired by the loss of a precious life, the Government takes this responsibility very seriously and cares deeply for the families of…

R R Swain gets additional charge of J&K DGP
Breaking News header Jammu and Kashmir National

R R Swain gets additional charge of J&K DGP

JAMMU: Since Dilbag Singh will reach superannuation at the end of this month, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, designated current Special DG J&K RR Swain (IPS) as having additional responsibility for the position on Friday. As per the directive from MHA, Swain, who is presently holding the position of special DG, CID, has been requested to assume the extra responsibility of the position starting on November 1. "With the approval of competent authority, Shri R.R Swain, IPS presently posted as special DG, CID, Jammu and Kasjmir will also function as in-charge Director General of Police in addition to his existing charge with effect from 1-11-23 and until further orders," stated the order. [caption id="attachment_4552" align="alignnone" width="300"] R R Swain gets additional charge of J&K DGP[/caption]  

Cross-border firing stops along IB in Jammu, living on the border start returning home
Breaking News header Jammu and Kashmir National

Cross-border firing stops along IB in Jammu, living on the border start returning home

JAMMU: According to officials, the sporadic gunfire between Pakistani Rangers and BSF soldiers along the International Border in the Jammu district's Arnia and RS Pura sectors came to a halt early on Friday. Following the unjustified firing by Pakistani Rangers, several families that had fled the border hamlets over night have finally begun to return home. The cross-border gunfire on Thursday night that targeted five Indian checkpoints along the International Border (IB) injured a civilian and a jawan of the Border Security Force (BSF). In effect, the BSF had responded to the shooting. "There is no longer any firing (across the border)." Now that things are quiet, a senior BSF officer said.According to him, there was sporadic gunfire between the two sides until three in the morning. According to the source, a woman and two BSF members were hurt on Thursday night and are now being treated in a hospital. A jawan has been relocated to Jammu's GMC Hospital. They have been identified as Sher Singh and Karnataka-born Basavraj SR. Rajni Bala of Arnia has been identified as the woman. The border residents were terrified after Pakistan Rangers employed heavy machine guns and launched 82 and 120 mm mortar rounds. When the unprovoked shooting began on Thursday night, a number of people—particularly migrant laborers—had departed the border hamlets of Arnia, Treva, Suchetgarh, and Jabowal. In the border region, a number of families had sought sanctuary in temples, bunkers, and other secure locations. Residents in border communities reported seeing such heavy bombardment and gunfire after a long period of time. "The firing started as we were eating. We abandoned the food and fled with our families," Bihar labourer Joginder Kumar remarked. After fleeing a frontline village due to bombardment, Kumar and 51 other people, including women and children, sought refuge in a shrine in Arnia. Kumar expressed their fear. "We were aware of the firing. We've seen it now," he remarked. In a forward hamlet, Ekta Devi exclaimed, "We were saved by God's favour when a mortar round struck a house.Up until this morning, a lot of firing took place. Every glass window cracked. Rakesh Kumar, a different villager, reported that he and a few other villagers were going back to their village after seeking refuge in a bunker in a front village. "After many years, there was heavy shelling and firing. For the previous two years, there was tranquilly. You can't trust Pakistan," he declared. Social media users shared numerous videos of people leaving their homes as the firing began, many of which became viral. When the gunfire began during a wedding ceremony in Arnia, many of the guests left. "Our marriage was maintained. After the firing began, the majority of the attendees left," claimed Kuldeep, the bridegroom's relative.This is October's second breach of the ceasefire. On October 19, Pakistan Rangers opened fire at the Vikram post along the IB in the Arnia sector, injuring two BSF jawans. On February 25, 2021, India and Pakistan signed a cease-fire agreement under which both countries pledged to rigorously abide by all cease-fire agreements along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir and other areas. [caption id="attachment_4549" align="alignnone"…

BJP Govt’s failure on security front leads to militancy revival in J&K:  Wani
Breaking News header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

BJP Govt’s failure on security front leads to militancy revival in J&K: Wani

POONCH: Vikar Rasool Wani, the head of the Jammu and Kashmir Congress, criticised the BJP government for its "failure" in maintaining security and voiced serious concerns over the resurgence of militancy in the union territory, particularly in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch. Speaking to a gathering of district-level party workers in Poonch, he further said that the Centre was neglecting to address issues that affected people, including as unemployment and underdevelopment. "It is really concerning that militancy is resurrecting in Rajouri, Poonch, and other border areas.The BJP government's shortcomings in the security domain have contributed to the resurgence of militancy, the speaker stated. He claimed that the politics of the BJP were polarising and predicated on hatred and division. He declared that the BJP-RSS's plans to divide people along religious and regional lines would be defeated by the Congress. "The BJP government, instead of focusing on development and protection of people, especially in border areas, is out to mislead people," he stated. "...the Centre's failure on the security front has led to the militancy revival, which is a matter of grave concern and should work as an eye-opener for BJP leaders who are only making tall claims and praising the Modi government for nothing," he stated.According to Wani, the Congress would do everything within its power to guarantee that the populace lives with dignity. Raman Bhalla, the working president of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee, criticised the BJP during his speech and charged it with misrepresenting the public.   [caption id="attachment_4528" align="alignnone" width="300"] BJP Govt’s failure on security front leads to militancy revival in J&K: Wani[/caption]

J&K Day celebrated in UK Parliament
Breaking News header International Jammu and Kashmir National

J&K Day celebrated in UK Parliament

LONDON: On Thursday, the UK Parliament observed Jammu & Kashmir Day, commemorating the 76th anniversary of the former princely state's admission to India on October 26, 1947. The Jammu Kashmir Diaspora in the UK organised the event, which was hosted by Bob Blackman, MP for Harrow East. Theresa Villiers MP from Chipping Barnet and Jonathan Lord MP from Woking were among the lawmakers in attendance. Maharaja Hari Singh's grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Ajatshatru Singh and Dr. Ritu Singh, were honoured guests for the event.After welcoming the special visitors, MP Jonathan Lord, Dr. Gautam Sen discussed the difficulties the Kashmiri Pandits confront as a result of a lack of political will to support their rehabilitation. The Dogra dynasty was instrumental in creating the princely state of Jammu & Kashmir, according to Ajatshatru Singh. Theresa Villiers highlighted the importance of Jammu Kashmir Day and the advancements made since Article 370 was revoked, while Sushil Pandit talked about the predicament of the Kashmiri Pandit community. In the House of Commons, MP Bob Blackman presented a signed copy of the Instrument of Accession, praised the Indian diaspora for their ongoing observance of this day, and asked Pakistan to put an end to state-sponsored terrorism in order to bring about long-lasting peace in the area. Ritu Singh's optimistic assessment of social and cultural projects that prioritise women's empowerment and regional economic development brought the programme to a close. She gave MPs a piece of Basohli art created by Paper Baag. The success of the event was largely due to the efforts of volunteers like Sonal Sher, Shafalica Bhan Kotwal, Anupama Handoo, Vinod Tikoo, Anupam Fotedar, Lalit Sharma, Pankaj Raina, and others. Political and community activists from the UK, the British Indian community, and the PoJK Diaspora attended. [caption id="attachment_4525" align="alignnone" width="300"] J&K Day celebrated in UK Parliament[/caption]  

BJP pursuing anti-people policies in J&K: Omar
header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

BJP pursuing anti-people policies in J&K: Omar

POONCH: Omar Abdullah, the vice president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, chastised the Central government for its inability to bring democracy back to J&K, pointing out that while the nation takes pleasure in being recognised as the birthplace of democracy worldwide, Jammu and Kashmir still lacks access to it. During a one-day delegate session in Surankote in Poonch, he made this statement. Senior party leader Javed Rana called the meeting. Criticising the absence of democracy in J&K, Omar claimed that the absence of a democratic administration is at its worst over the entire area."The last Assembly elections were held in 2014, which was about ten years ago. While people in J&K are unified in their desire to bring democracy back, he said, "those in power are not prepared to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation." Omar denounced the oppressive policies of the current bureaucratic system, citing increased electricity costs, tolls, inflation, and ration restrictions as examples of how people are being persecuted. PDD introduced digital metres initially. These digital metres had been replaced with smart metres in a matter of days. Why were digital metres put in the first place, one may wonder? For what purpose are the crores of money that were spent on them? Every year, the cost of water rises, despite the urgent global need for clean drinking water. Everywhere you go, the roads are in poor shape. The government has been working on opening the Surankote road for years, but it doesn't seem serious about finishing it. The government's sole accomplishment, he claimed, is having wine shops in every corner of J&K. Omar criticised the government for its lax approach to holding elections in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that while individuals in "New Delhi" claim that India is the mother of democracy, they fail to show the same love for their mother when they visit Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that it has been nine years since the last election held in this location in 2014. "I fail to see why elections are not being held in Jammu and Kashmir. The right to choose one's government belongs to the people. It is obvious that individuals who carry a large BJP placard are afraid inside and are ill-prepared to deal with the public; this dread must have grown in the wake of the Kargil election results," he remarked. On this occasion, senior leaders Ali Mohd Sagar, Th Yashu Rachpal Singh, Mian Altaf, Ajay Sadhotra, Rattan Lal Gupta, Abdul Gani Malik, Aijaz Jan, Ch Naseem Liyaqat, Zeeshan Rana, and Abdul Gani Malik were present. [caption id="attachment_4522" align="alignnone" width="300"] BJP pursuing anti-people policies in J&K: Omar[/caption]  

2 BSF troopers, civilian injured in Pakistani firing in Jammu
Breaking News header International Jammu and Kashmir National

2 BSF troopers, civilian injured in Pakistani firing in Jammu

JAMMU: Pakistani rangers fired unprovoked fire at five Indian stations along the International Border (IB) in the Arnia and Suchetgarh sectors of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday night, injuring two members of the Border Security Force and one civilian. It was stated that their condition was steady. According to him, the Pakistani troops started fire in the Arnia sector at about 8:00 p.m., and the "unprovoked firing" was appropriately countered. The shooting on both sides involves four to five posts, a BSF official informed news agency.According to the officer, the injured jawan was sent to the GMC Hospital in Jammu for specialised care. He stated that information regarding any casualties to Pakistani posts in the BSF's retaliatory strike would be available in the morning. According to sources, Pakistani rangers also opened fire with mortar bombs in residential areas, frightening the people living along the border. Arnia, Suchtgarh, Sia, Jabowal, and the Treva regions along the IB are among the areas that allegedly came under fire, they added. People were observed leaving their homes in Arnia and Jabowal, especially migrant labourers. [caption id="attachment_4519" align="alignnone" width="300"] 2 BSF troopers, civilian injured in Pakistani firing in Jammu[/caption]  

DC, SSP flag off Youth Volunteers carrying Amrit Kalash from Rajouri to Jammu
Breaking News header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

DC, SSP flag off Youth Volunteers carrying Amrit Kalash from Rajouri to Jammu

RAJOURI: On August 9, 2023, the nationwide campaign "Meri Maati Mera Desh" was introduced as a way to pay tribute to the brave people, known as "Veers," who gave their lives in defence of the country. This initiative, which unites individuals from all backgrounds, is the finale of the 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav' and strives to pay honour to the unwavering spirit of our country's heroes. To represent the essence of our land and its people, dirt or rice was collected from several panchayats during the campaign's initial phase. This priceless maati was artfully positioned in the Amrit Kalash to symbolise the resiliency and power of our country as a whole. In the second stage, the district's maati from several panchayats were skillfully combined into a single Kalash at the block level, signifying our communities' solidarity and togetherness. During the campaign's third phase, the district's collective spirit was embodied by the Amrit Kalash, which made its way to a specially designated spot at the district level. On this auspicious occasion, youth volunteers carrying Amrit kalash from Rajouri to Jammu and then to Dehli were flagged off by Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal and SSP Rajouri, Amrit Pal Singh.Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal conveyed his sincere thanks to the valiant Veers who gave their lives in defence of the country during the flag-off ceremony. He underlined that "Meri Maati Mera Desh" is a collective statement of gratitude carved into the very soil of our towns and cities rather than just a collection of events. It pays a profound tribute to the bravery that characterises our wonderful country. Vikas Kundal, the deputy commissioner, went on to emphasise the campaign's importance in promoting harmony and unity among Indians. He emphasised that this project breaks down barriers of caste, creed, and geography by uniting people from a variety of backgrounds.The campaign serves as a reminder that the strength of our country is found in its people's spirit and solidarity. He urged the populace to uphold the sacrifice and patriotism shown by our courageous warriors. By doing this, we can all work together to fortify the basis of our country and guarantee a better future for future generations. The "Meri Maati Mera Desh" campaign is proof of the resolute nature of our nation's warriors. Every Indian may relate to this sincere homage, which serves as a poignant reminder of our common history and the sacrifices made by our ancestors.Let's come together as a nation and honour the courageous Veers' legacy by preserving their memories in both our hearts and the soil of our dear country. Other attendees included Rajiv Kumar Khajuria, Additional Deputy Commissioner Rajouri; Vivek Shekhar, Additional SP; Imran Rashid Kataria, Assistant Commissioner Revenue; Sheraz Chowhan, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat; Auqil Nuvaid, District Panchayat Officer; Mudasir Chowdhury, DySP HQr; and officers from the BSF and CRPF. [caption id="attachment_4516" align="alignnone" width="300"] DC, SSP flag off Youth Volunteers carrying Amrit Kalash from Rajouri to Jammu[/caption]  

LG Sinha receives Amrit Kalash from all Blocks and Municipal bodies of Kashmir Division
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LG Sinha receives Amrit Kalash from all Blocks and Municipal bodies of Kashmir Division

SRINAGAR : Today, as part of the Meri Maati Mera Desh Campaign, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha accepted the Amrit Kalash from all of the Kashmir Division's blocks and municipal bodies and gave the Amrit Kalash Yatra the green light to continue on to New Delhi via Jammu. Over 1.5 lakh special celebration activities were planned in J&K to commemorate the collection of Mitti and Rice from homes in all villages and urban wards from September 11th to September 30th, 2023. On this auspicious occasion, the Lieutenant Governor dedicated 4605 Shilaphalakams and 3952 Amrit Vatikas throughout the University of Technology to honour the memories of notable individuals who gave their lives and made priceless contributions to the advancement and prosperity of Jammu Kashmir."Meri Maati Mera Desh is a time to honour the bravery and selfless sacrifice made by freedom warriors. The Lt Governor stated in his speech that "the sacred flame of their selfless sacrifice and contribution of our charismatic forefathers in development will illuminate our journey of Amrit Kaal." It is a representation representing the dreams and ambitions of the average person in J&K, Utah, not an actual event. According to him, it's also a wake-up call to a new J&K that is advancing with a fresh sense of purpose and determination.The Lieutenant Governor urged cooperation in achieving the goal of a developed India while delivering the "Panch Pran" commitment to the populace. Through Panch Pran, Hon. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji has opened our eyes to a new direction. "These five Pran will guide us in Amrit Kaal," he said. "Goal of developed India is to remove any trace of colonial mindset, take pride in our roots, unity and sense of duty among citizens." According to the Lieutenant Governor, Meri Maati Mera Desh is also a representation of renewed commitment, a chance for group introspection, and a fresh start for team J&K.He stated, "I am convinced that the campaign will create new strength and new confidence in the development journey of J&K UT." We will have to commit every moment of our life to nation building. To commemorate the event, the Lieutenant Governor also planted a sapling of Picea smithiana, or Himalayan spruce. The following people were in attendance: Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary of the Tourism Department; Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor; Junaid Azim Mattu, Mayor of SMC; Aftab Malik, Chairman, DDC Srinagar; DDC Chairpersons; members of PRIs; ULBs; and senior officers from Civil Administration, Police, and Security Forces. [caption id="attachment_4513" align="alignnone" width="300"] LG Sinha receives Amrit Kalash from all Blocks and Municipal bodies of Kashmir Division[/caption]  

2 infiltrators killed in ongoing encounter in Kupwara
Breaking News header Jammu and Kashmir National

2 infiltrators killed in ongoing encounter in Kupwara

KUPWARA: According to authorities, two terrorists were killed on Thursday during an ongoing battle in the Machhal district of Kupwara. According to an official, security personnel began their operation in the Machhal sector based on particular information concerning the presence of terrorists. "Based on specific information provided by Kupwara Police, an encounter has started in Machhal sector in which two #terrorists have been killed so far," a spokeswoman for the Jammu and Kashmir Police posted on X. Work in progress. More information will be provided later. An army official earlier said that an attempt at infiltration in the Machal sector was thwarted by the army and police. [caption id="attachment_4502" align="alignnone" width="300"] 2 infiltrators killed in ongoing encounter in Kupwara[/caption]