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…

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LG Sinha attends Basohli Mahotsav
header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

LG Sinha attends Basohli Mahotsav

KATHUA: Manoj Sinha, the lieutenant governor, visited Purthu today and took part in the ongoing Basohli Mahotsav. He celebrated Basohli's rich legacy with the many other enthusiastic locals. During his speech, the Lieutenant Governor commended the J&K Administration and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA) for their joint efforts in promoting the region's cultural and historical identity, as well as the inventiveness of Basohli art and craft. According to him, the special project aims to elevate the talent of artists and weavers so that their invaluable creations are recognised and appreciated throughout the world. He expressed his sincere gratitude to all those involved in helping to establish Basohli Mahotsav as the nation's birthplace of distinctive cultural and artistic legacy.The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed in Basohli that the UT Administration is committed to offering all help required for the promotion of Pashmina, Basohli paintings, and other locally produced niche goods. The Lieutenant Governor stated, "We are working towards the welfare of artists and artisans who have preserved the priceless heritage and diverse cultural traditions under the direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji." He claimed that the distinctiveness of Basohli is eloquently expressed in renowned paintings, giving Pahari Art new meaning and a distinct style of its own. It is also a hub for other artistic traditions, such as the manufacture of Pashmina wool, which is unparalleled and distinctive because of the intricate weaving and embroidered designs on the final goods, which exhibit exceptional talent and craftsmanship, he continued.According to him, GI registration has been obtained for the premium goods "Pashmina" and "Basohli paintings" in order to guard against counterfeiting and guarantee access to the international market. Intense attempts are being made to improve market connections for regional goods like bamboo crafts, tweed, phoolkari, and stitched straw. According to him, it is also made sure that the houses of the families involved in traditional art and craft are benefiting from progress. In order to fully realise Basohli's potential for economic growth, the Lieutenant Governor urged public officials, locals, and other interested parties to support the government's initiatives to promote tourism and other sites of historical significance. To draw more people to the area, he suggested that Ramleela of Basohli be made more widely known and that regular fairs be held. In response to the requests made by elected officials, the Lieutenant Governor stated that the administration is cognizant of the people's need for growth. He claimed that the Basohli Water Sports Centre is ready and will open soon. The Lieutenant Governor honoured the regional performers at Basholi Utsav and launched a monograph on Vishwasthali on the occasion. He went to see the stands that the weavers, artists, businesswomen, and women had set up to display their modern crafts, cuisine, and art. Additionally, he engaged with Chudamani Sansthan's students and artisans.A Rudraksha sapling was formerly planted at Model Higher Secondary School Basohli by the Lieutenant Governor. Present were PRI representatives, senior officers, and well-known citizens from various walks of life. Col. Mahan Singh (Retd), DDC Chairman Kathua; Anand Jain, IGP Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Kathua; Harbir Singh, Deputy Commissioner Pathankot; Shakti Pathak, DIG Jammu -Samba -Kathua Range; Bharat Singh Manhas, Secretary JKAACL). [caption id="attachment_4347" align="alignnone" width="300"] LG Sinha attends Basohli Mahotsav[/caption]  

Winter Tourism: Dr. Syed Sehrish DC Baramulla conducts late Night visit of Tangmarg
Breaking News Business header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

Winter Tourism: Dr. Syed Sehrish DC Baramulla conducts late Night visit of Tangmarg

BARAMULLA: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Baramulla, Dr. Syed Sehrish Asgar, made a late-night visit to Tangmarg today to identify additional parking space for the convenience of visitors and the general public. The purpose of this visit was to regulate and ensure additional parking facilities for the upcoming winter season in the tourist resort Gulmarg. Dr. Sehrish pointed out four excellent locations during the tour, and she gave SDM instructions to develop a comprehensive strategy for using the locations for parking facilities. The DC said at the time that the long-standing requests from the public for parking facilities have been tracked and will soon be fulfilled in order to guarantee Tangmarg has enough and more parking spaces.In addition to taking action to stop the annoyance of improper parking and roadside encroachments, the DC asked for concerted efforts to optimise and streamline the traffic system in the highly crowded area, highlighting the tourism aspects. During their interactions with members of various trade associations, the DC requested that they work with the Administration to ensure efficient traffic regulation in the city, especially on busy and congested roads in order to alleviate traffic bottlenecks. While this was going on, the DC and I talked about a number of other challenges impeding the area's general development, and during that conversation, the relevant officers received the required directives for their prompt resolution. Sub Divisional Megistrate Tangmarg, Executive Officer, MC Tangmarg, and other relevant officials accompanied the DC. [caption id="attachment_4344" align="alignnone" width="300"] Winter Tourism: Dr. Syed Sehrish DC Baramulla conducts late Night visit of Tangmarg[/caption]    

LG pays obeisance at Mata Vaishno Devi shrine; launches ‘live darshan’ facility
Breaking News header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

LG pays obeisance at Mata Vaishno Devi shrine; launches ‘live darshan’ facility

KATRA: According to officials, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated a "live darshan" service for devotees on Sunday after paying respects at the sacred Mata Vaishno Devi shrine atop the Trikuta hills in the Reasi district. According to officials, Sinha, the head of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), also published a book called "Bhakti on Shakti" by Rupa publications about the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. They claimed that on the occasion of "Maha Ashtami," the Lieutenant Governor visited the shrine and offered prayers for the Union Territory's advancement, prosperity, and peace. According to them, he also introduced a bilingual chatbot on the board's website. [caption id="attachment_4334" align="alignnone" width="300"] LG pays obeisance at Mata Vaishno Devi shrine; launches ‘live darshan' facility[/caption]  

Snowfall, Light Rain Likely Over Scattered Places Over J&K: MeT
header Jammu and Kashmir National

Snowfall, Light Rain Likely Over Scattered Places Over J&K: MeT

SRINAGAR, Oct 22: Over the following 24 hours, the Meteorological Centre Srinagar forecasted that there would likely be light rain or snowfall in a few locations over the higher regions of Jammu and Kashmir. Most areas of the state are gloomy, while scattered areas of Jammu and Kashmir are expected to have light rain or snow today on the higher peaks, according to the forecast. According to the MeT office, Monday's weather will be partially to generally cloudy, and from October 24 to 27, it will be fair to partly cloudy with poor visibility in the morning.It stated that while there is no heavy rain or snowfall predicted for Jammu and Kashmir or Ladakh till October 27, there is a chance of light rain in a few locations around the state on October 28 and 29. Additionally, a weather advisory was issued by the MeT office for today, advising against harvesting and other outdoor activities. The MeT office reported that the minimum temperature recorded at Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, was 6.6 degrees Celsius, while Qazigund recorded 5.4 degrees, Pahalgam 1.8 degrees, Kokernag 6.0 degrees, and Gulmarg 3.2 degrees. [caption id="attachment_4322" align="alignnone" width="300"] Snowfall, Light Rain Likely Over Scattered Places Over J&K: MeT[/caption]  

Folk Festival-cum-Cultural Bonanza held at Bahu Plaza Jammu
Breaking News Business header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

Folk Festival-cum-Cultural Bonanza held at Bahu Plaza Jammu

JAMMU: Under the direction of Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary of Tourism, J&K, the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu organised a spectacular Folk Festival Cum Cultural Bonanza at Central Park, Bahu Plaza, Jammu. The principal guest of the event, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, praised the Tourism Department for the flawless planning of the grand event.He greeted everyone with heartfelt Navratra wishes, highlighting the cultural significance of this auspicious festival within the vivid fabric of Jammu. There was a soul-satisfying Ganesh Vandana performance and traditional welcomes paired to the rhythmic beats of dhols, creating a joyful ambiance throughout the auditorium.Vivekanand Rai, Director of Tourism in Jammu, stressed the importance of occasions such as these, which offer a platform for cross-cultural exchange and strengthen ties of fraternity, solidarity, and social peace. The department's unwavering commitment to increasing public engagement and bringing attention to underutilised skills was highlighted by Sunaina Sharma Mehta, Joint Director of Tourism. She further emphasised that Navratra celebrations this year went beyond Katra to include Jammu, Samba, Udhampur, and Kathua, where the magnificent Basohli Utsav was the main event. A number of acts were featured at the occasion, such as Ganesh Vandana and Mata ki Bhaint.The Open MIC platform gave the region's budding artists a platform to showcase their profusion of talent by entertaining the crowd with songs and dance routines. A stunning performance of the Kud dance, a traditional Dogri folk dance, captivated the crowd and was the festival's high point. High-spirited Dandiya-Garba performances were given in the evening by local performers such as Saras Bharti, Sonali Dogra, Ravi Raghuvanshi, Sourav Shivalaya, and artists from Tanseen Sangeet Vidayala. The joyful ambiance of the mixed rhythms of Kud and Dandiya beats set the tone for the Navratra celebrations, and the eager crowd joined in. The tourism department also celebrated the winners of the My Favourite Tourist Destination of Jammu Division online competition. The competition drew a large number of participants, demonstrating the department's dedication to educating the public and promoting lesser-known tourist attractions in the Jammu region. Travel aficionados were treated to a visual feast with an LED screen exhibiting Jammu's tourism destinations during the event. Attendees included Captain Anil Gour, President of the Travels Association of Jammu, Rajendar Sharma, General Secretary of TAAJ, Sanjay Gupta, Dalbir Sharma, Executive members, and Amit Sharma, Joint Commissioner of GST, Abdul Jabbar, Deputy Director of Tourism (Publicity), Neha Mahajan, Deputy Director Planning, Sugandhi Banotra, Assistant Director of Tourism in Jammu, and Arif Lone, Assistant Director of Tourism NHW Batote/Katra. [caption id="attachment_4313" align="alignnone" width="300"] Folk Festival-cum-Cultural Bonanza held at Bahu Plaza Jammu[/caption]  

111 fresh dengue cases reported in Jammu
Breaking News header Health Jammu and Kashmir National

111 fresh dengue cases reported in Jammu

JAMMU: On Saturday, a total of 11 new dengue cases were recorded from different regions of Jammu and Kashmir, bringing the overall number of cases this year to 4170. According to a health official, 73 instances from Jammu district alone were recorded today. Udhampur and Kathua districts reported 8 cases apiece, Samba reported 7, Doda reported 6, Rajouri and Kishtwar reported 3, Reasi reported 2, and J&K reported 2. He said that 98 adults and 13 children are among the positive patients. According to him, the Jammu district has recorded the most cases—2765—followed by Udhampur district (513 cases), Kathua (331 cases), and Samba (271 cases)."There were 77 cases in Rajouri, 45 in Ramban, 42 in Reasi, 36 in Doda, 25 in Poonch, 7 in Kishtwar, 22 in Kashmir and 32 from other parts of the country," added the official. The official added that although dengue has already claimed four lives this season, a total of 1334 people have been hospitalised to hospitals; of these, 1206 have been discharged and 92 are currently receiving treatment. The official declared, "There are more and more instances of dengue every day. Citizens should make sure there is no standing water inside or outside their homes, as this is where the insects that cause dengue thrive. [caption id="attachment_4310" align="alignnone" width="300"] 111 fresh dengue cases reported in Jammu[/caption]  

Dr Karan, others pay tribute to Maharaja Gulab Singh on his birth anniversary
Breaking News header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

Dr Karan, others pay tribute to Maharaja Gulab Singh on his birth anniversary

JAMMU: On the occasion of Maharaja Gulab Singh's 231st birthday, Dr. Karan Singh, a former Sadar-e-Riyasat and scion of the former Royal Dogra family, paid heartfelt homage to the man. At a celebration held by the Maharaja Gulab Singh Memorial Trust at Amar Mahal to mark the occasion, Dr. Karan Singh emphasised the importance of reexamining the life and accomplishments of Maharaja Gulab Singh. His words, "Maharaja Gulab Singh was one of the rare rulers in Indian history that left a footprint of his sovereignty in the difficult terrain of Gilgit, Baltistan, Ladakh, and Tibet," were followed by a lament that the Maharaja's accomplishments and contributions, regrettably, remained a subject of tangential concern for historians working on historical reconstruction.Dr. Karan Singh gave Kritika Khanna the esteemed Maharaja Gulab Singh Award 2023 in recognition of her achievements in the sports world at the event. In a team para-rowing competition at the 2019 Asian Rowing Championship held in South Korea, Kritika took home a bronze medal. The Maharaja Gulab Singh Memorial Trust's trustee, Vikramaditya Singh, gave a welcome speech to kick off the event. Dr. S. N. Pandita discussed Maharaja Gulab Singh's life. The citation was then read aloud by Ajatshatru Singh, a trustee of the Maharaja Gulab Singh Memorial Trust. Brig J S Rajput, Member Secretary of the Maharaja Gulab Singh Memorial Trust, offered the vote of gratitude. This morning, Dr. Karan Singh also paid a magnificent homage to Maharaja Gulab Singh at the Raghunath Temple. On the anniversary of Maharaja Gulab Singh's birth, he also performed Puranahuti of the Yagya. Dr. Karan Singh paid homage to Maharaja Gulab Singh and described the era of the Jammu and Kashmir Kingdom that was characterised by the great Maharaja's rule. He reminisced about the magnificent accomplishments of Maharaja Gulab Singh, hailing him as a great visionary, bold, and entrepreneurial leader who treated his subjects as members of his own family and gave justice to all. On this occasion, Dharmarth Trust Chairman Trustee Dr. Karan Singh stated that Dharmarth Trust employees would get a 20 percent Diwali bonus, three percent DA from July 1 through July 7, 2023, and two percent DA from January 1 through January 1, 2024. Additionally, he gave financial aid to the pupils at Birpur's Raghunath Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya. In honour of Maharaja Gulab Singh's birth anniversary, the Maharaja Hari Singh Foundation collaborated with the Shiv Sena (UBT) J&K unit, led by Manish Sahni, and Dr. Navneet Kour, Secty General ISBTI & YBA founder Chairperson "SUPPORT NGO," to organise a blood donation camp and facilitation function at SMGS Hospital Jammu.Dr. Ritu Singh was in charge of this event, which started with Bhai Jee offering Ardaas and Maharaja Gulab Singh receiving a floral tribute. Shiv Sena volunteers and the non-profit organisation SUPPORT Jammu gave blood to Onco Kids and Thalassemia patients. At the inaugural event were Dr. Dara Singh, the superintendent of SMGS Hospital; Dr. Ashutosh, the principal of GMC Jammu; and Dr. Meena Sidhu, the head of blood transfusion and medicine, in addition to a host of medical professionals, nurses, and paramedical staff. Dr. Ritu Singh honoured Drs. Dara Singh, Ashutosh, Meena Sidhu, G. S. Saini, Sanjeev Digra, Vijay Sawhney, and other medical professionals, nurses, and staff members on this occasion.Amidst cheers honouring the Maharaja, the Yuva Rajput Sabha (YRS) also paid respects to Maharaja Gulab Singh at his statue in the SMGS Hospital Shalimar Jammu. Ex-YRS President Surinder Singh Gilli arrived at Mukesh Singh's graveside accompanied by YRS members Vikramjeet Singh, Balbir Singh, Avtar Singh, Sanjay Singh, and others. [caption id="attachment_4307" align="alignnone" width="300"] Dr Karan, others pay tribute to Maharaja Gulab Singh on his…

No traffic movement on Jmu-Sri hghwy for repairs on Sunday
Breaking News header Jammu and Kashmir National

No traffic movement on Jmu-Sri hghwy for repairs on Sunday

JAMMU: Travellers complained of delays on various sections of the Jammu-Srinagar highway, including those damaged by recent rains. Officials said that traffic flow on the route will remain delayed on Sunday for repairs in the Ramban district. No vehicle will be permitted to proceed on the vital route between the Nashri and Banihal tunnels after 6 p.m. on Saturday, according to a traffic police alert. It stated that the restriction would last until Sunday at midnight and that it was necessary to halt traffic in order to perform maintenance and restoration work at Dalwas, where landslides caused by intense rains on October 16 had left the road section reduced to a single lane."In view of poor surface condition and sinking of road, the NHAI has been directed by the government to undertake repair and restoration work, which will be carried out on Sunday," a spokesperson stated. [caption id="attachment_4303" align="alignnone" width="300"] No traffic movement on Jmu-Sri hghwy for repairs on Sunday[/caption]  

DC Srinagar inspects progress of works of SDH Hazratbal, Multi-Level Car Parking Hazratbal,Additional Block of JLNM Hospital
Business header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

DC Srinagar inspects progress of works of SDH Hazratbal, Multi-Level Car Parking Hazratbal,Additional Block of JLNM Hospital

SRINAGAR: The 50-bed Sub District Hospital in Hazratbal, the multi-level car parking complex in Hazratbal, the additional block of the JLNM Hospital Rainawari, and other development projects in the district were among the major developmental projects that the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Srinagar, Muhammad Aijaz Asad, visited on Saturday. The Chief Planning Officer of Srinagar, the Superintending Engineer of R&B, the Block Medical Officer of Hazratbal, the Executive Engineers of R&B, the Officers of the JKPCC, the JK Housing Board, and other relevant parties joined the Deputy Commissioner during the visit. The Deputy Commissioner was informed during his inspection of the status of the 50-bed Sub District Hospital Project at Hazratbal that the first phase of the project's construction on the plinth and basement is ongoing at a cost of Rs 14.73 Crore. On this particular occasion, the DC requested that the executing agency responsible quicken the pace of work on the famous project in order to guarantee its timely completion and benefit the enormous population in and around the Hazratbal districts. In a similar vein, the DC examined the G+3Multi-Level Car Parking building project, which is expected to cost Rs 11.32 crore and is being carried out close to Hazratbal Shrine. During the event, the DC was notified that more than 90% of the construction work for the Multi-Level parking project, which can hold 164 cars across four stories, has been finished. During their interactions with the officers of the relevant executing agency, the DC emphasised the need for them to move quickly on the remaining portion of the project in order to guarantee that the facility is utilised for the benefit of the public. Afterwards, the DC also went to JLNM Hospital Rainawari to see the ongoing building of a new hospital block, which is being funded by the JK Housing Board and is expected to cost Rs 27.66 crore. On this particular occasion, the DC was informed about the current state of the building work by the Medical Superintendent and Deputy Medical Superintendent. The DC asked the people in charge of the site to expedite the work and guarantee the project's timely completion. Additionally, the DC requested that the hospital administration guarantee improved patient care. [caption id="attachment_4300" align="alignnone" width="300"] DC Srinagar inspects progress of works of SDH Hazratbal, Multi-Level Car Parking Hazratbal,Additional Block of JLNM Hospital[/caption]  

DC Rajouri inspects RDD works in Block Pangrain
Business header Jammu and Kashmir National Political

DC Rajouri inspects RDD works in Block Pangrain

RAJOURI: The Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Vikas Kundal, examined the work being done by the Rural Development Department in block Pangrain today with the intention of evaluating the status of various developmental projects and guaranteeing their efficient execution for the benefit of the rural populace. The Deputy Commissioner examined a number of projects, one of which was the Panchayat Thandikassi segregation shed, which is expected to improve waste management techniques in the area. He also examined the protection work's completion, which represents an important step in defending the area's infrastructure from any threats. The B2V road, a vital conduit for connectivity, and the plastic waste treatment unit, a significant step towards environmentally sound practises, were both included in the inspection.During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner expressed satisfaction with the progress made and praised the teamwork of the officers and authorities involved in the works. The speaker underscored the significance of operating with increased fervour and embracing a mission-driven methodology in order to fulfil the high standards held by the rural populace. The CPO Mohammad Khurshid, ACD Vijay Kumar, XEN REW Zahir Khan, and BDO Pangrain, who offered insightful commentary and specialised knowledge throughout the visit, accompanied the Deputy Commissioner. During his visit to the Government Middle School in Katarmal, the Deputy Commissioner demonstrated the administration's dedication to education and creating a positive learning atmosphere for the children. The purpose of the school premises inspection was to find any possible areas for improvement and make sure the pupils' educational needs are being addressed. [caption id="attachment_4297" align="alignnone" width="300"] DC Rajouri inspects RDD works in Block Pangrain[/caption]