Handwara,Jan,19:The Phase-II celebration commemorating 150 years of the national song “Vande Mataram” was observed with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit at the Town Hall, Handwara, in Sub Division Handwara.

The event witnessed vibrant participation from students of various schools, who showcased their talent through quiz competitions and patriotic cultural programmes. The performance by the police band added colour, energy, and a sense of national pride to the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Handwara, Javed Naseem Masoodi (JKAS), highlighted the historical significance of “Vande Mataram” and emphasised its role in instilling patriotism, unity, and love for the motherland among citizens, especially the younger generation.

The programme was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Handwara, Sahil Sarangal (IAS), Deputy Chief Education Officer Kupwara (HQ Handwara), Zonal Education Officer Handwara, Zonal Education Officer Rajwar, and officers from various line departments at the sub-divisional level. Their presence reflected strong administrative support and community involvement in the celebration.

As part of the event, certificates of appreciation were distributed among students and other participants in recognition of their enthusiastic participation and valuable contributions.

The celebration concluded on a high note, reinforcing the values of national pride, unity, and devotion to the nation, and leaving a lasting impression on all present.

Mumbai, November 24 — Veteran Bollywood icon Dharmendra, fondly known as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” has died at the age of 89, his team confirmed today. The news has sent shockwaves across the film fraternity and among generations of fans who grew up watching his rugged heroism and warm charisma on screen.

Dharmendra, whose real name was Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol, breathed his last at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. He had been admitted earlier amid reports of respiratory distress, sparking widespread concern. 

A towering figure in Indian cinema, Dharmendra’s career spanned more than six decades. He starred in over 300 films, delivering unforgettable performances in classics such as Phool Aur Patthar, Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baarat, and Satyakam. 

Known not just for his on-screen strength but also his humility off-screen, Dharmendra was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2012 for his contributions to Indian cinema. His legacy is also carried forward through his family — he is survived by his wives, Prakash Kaur and Hema Malini, and his children: actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, Ahana Deol, along with Vijeta and Ajeeta. 

His final film, Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat, is scheduled to release on December 25, serving as a poignant posthumous tribute to his enduring presence. 

As the nation mourns, tributes are pouring in from across the entertainment industry. Dharmendra was not just a hero in his films — he was a symbol of strength, grace, and timeless charm. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of millions.

Dr. Ajaz Ahmad Bhat of Doru Shahabad Among World’s Top 2% Scientists Recognized by Stanford University

In a moment of immense pride for the region, Dr. Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, a native of Doru Shahabad, Anantnag, has been ranked among the top 2% of scientists globally in Stanford University’s prestigious annual ranking of scientists based on career-long impact and citation metrics. This globally acknowledged list, published by a team of researchers at Stanford in collaboration with Elsevier, identifies the most influential scientists across all scientific disciplines based on standardized citation indicators.

This remarkable recognition not only highlights Dr. Bhat’s scientific contributions but also shines a spotlight on the immense talent emerging from Jammu and Kashmir. His inclusion in this elite list symbolizes years of dedication to biomedical research and academic excellence, and stands as a proud moment not just for the tehsil of Doru Shahabad but for the entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Currently, Dr. Bhat serves as a Senior Staff Scientist at Sidra Medicine, Qatar, one of the leading centers for pediatric care, precision medicine, and biomedical research in the Middle East. His work spans cutting-edge research in cancer biology, obesity, and metabolic diseases, often integrating genomics, transcriptomics, and other multi-omics approaches to uncover therapeutic targets and biomarkers.

Dr. Bhat earned his Ph.D. from the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, where he focused on vaccine immunology. Following his doctoral studies, he pursued postdoctoral research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA, where he specialized in cancer biology.

Over the years, Dr. Bhat has authored numerous high-impact publications in internationally renowned journals. He has also contributed to several academic books and special issues, and his work has earned him multiple international awards and accolades for research excellence. In addition to his scientific research, he serves on the editorial boards of several respected international journals. 

Dr. Bhat’s journey from the scenic town of Doru Shahabad to global scientific recognition is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and intellectual rigor. His achievements continue to inspire the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to pursue careers in science and research, and his contributions are paving the way for future advancements in personalized medicine and global health.

New Delhi, September 4, 2025: The Save Youth Save Future Foundation, a prominent Kashmiri NGO, unveiled its landmark research report titled “Unraveling the Truth: A Critical Study of Unmarked and Unidentified Graves in Kashmir Valley” at the Press Club of India today.

The event was attended by media representatives, eminent citizens, scholars, and intellectuals, sparking a thought-provoking discourse on a sensitive and highly contested issue.

The meticulously executed study, spearheaded by the Foundation's scholars and volunteers, examined and documented nearly 4,500 unmarked and unidentified graves across four border districts of Kashmir—Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, and Ganderbal. Covering six years of intensive field research, the report offers empirical evidence to counteract misinformation and propaganda regarding these graves, clarifying their origins and the involvement of both foreign and local militants.

Wajahat Farooq Bhat, Chairman of the Save Youth Save Future Foundation, highlighted the importance of the study, asserting:

> “Our research is a step toward truth and transparency. These graves have long been enveloped in mystery and conjecture. Through empirical evidence and thorough analysis, we aspire to promote an informed dialogue that aids in achieving peace and societal stability in the Kashmir Valley.”

The event featured an in-depth presentation by Anika Nazir, a principal researcher involved in the project, who emphasized the difficulties faced during the study and its ramifications for the future of the region.

> “This report transcends mere statistics: it encapsulates human narratives, provides closure for families, and tackles a significant issue with both sensitivity and precision,” she stated.

The Chief Guest, Wajahat Habibullah, former Chief Information Commissioner of India, addressed the audience, praising the Foundation’s initiative:

> “This study represents a commendable endeavor to clarify a complex and emotionally charged issue. It highlights the significance of truth in healing wounds and fostering a peaceful future.”

Rishi Suri, Senior Editor at The Daily Milap, also spoke at the event.

> “This study will go a long way in restoring the dignity of the families and communities that have been held hostage to a false narrative all these years and will chart a brighter path for Kashmir,” he said.

The program concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session and a vigorous discussion, showcasing the Foundation’s dedication to fostering constructive dialogue. The release of the report signifies a crucial milestone in addressing the intricacies of unmarked graves in Kashmir, setting the stage for informed policy-making and societal healing.

Speakers lauded the Save Youth Save Future Foundation’s commitment to fostering peace, stability, and social empowerment through research, advocacy, and community involvement.

 Jaipur 25 July:- Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Sh. Bhajan Lal Sharma will confer the ‘Goenka Recognition Awards 2025’ award on more than 10 individuals who work at grass root level in the fields of social service, sports, business, academics, professionals and education during the annual " "Goenka Sangam" function that will be held on 22 nd August 2025 at Fatehpur Shekhawati said Sh Sushil Goenka Managing Trustee of "SHREE SHAKTI GOENKA TRUST" who organises the festival.

The "Goenka Sangam" will be attended by top business tycoon of Goenka clan alongwith family members which includes Sh Subhash Chandra Chairman Zee Group , Sh R. S Goenka Co Chairman Emami Group Kokatta ,Shri Bharat Goenka Chairman Tally ,Sh Vishnu Goenka Chairman PashupatI Group besides other top industrialists from India and Abroad 

This award was constituted in the year 2019 by "SHREE SHAKTI GOENKA TRUST" to honour unsung heroes from the Goenka Community who work unrelentlessly to bring positive change in the society said Sh Sishil K Goenka Managing Trustee 

'SHREE SHAKTI GOENKA TRUST " presents the annual Goenka Recognition Awards 2025’ each year during five days long "Goenka Sangam " festival organised to showcase rich cultural legacy and its contribution to the society . This year the "Goenka Sangam "will be held from 19 th to 23 nd August at Fatehpur Shekhawati in Rajasthan .said Sh Sushil Goenka Managing Trustee of "SHREE SHAKTI GOENKA TRUST" who organises the festival.

SHREE SHAKTI GOENKA TRUST " trust , is inviting online application through two types of submissions: nominations and self-nominations, for the for the years 2025 said Sh Arun Goenka Chairman Award Committee 2025.

All members of Goenka clan are eligible for consideration. All Applications/Nominations for the Awards for this year received upto 31 st july will be considered. However the nomination date is likely to be extended to enable maximum enteries for the coveted award said Arun Goenka Chairman Award Committee 2025

The trust has constituted three members jury who will select the awardees .The jury members includes CA R.K.Agarwal ,Dr Rekha Gaur and Group Captain Pramjit Singh Ahluwalia . The name of the awardees will be announced on 22 nd August 2025 said Sh Sushil Goenka Managing Trustee of "SHREE SHAKTI GOENKA TRUST" who organises the festival.

   The Goenkas have several centuries of illustrious history in Indian business and are known for significant contributions to India's financial and business landscape.

The Goenkas from various parts of the globe, including India, Japan, USA,England, Dubai, Singapore etc, are likely to assemble at Fatehpur 

Shekhawati. During "Goenka Sangam " celebrations from 19 th to 23 rd August 2025 where cultural, religious and various social functions will be organised to showcase the rich legacy of the "Goenka Clan "

Famous religious preacher Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai Pandya will perform Katha on Shrimad Bhagavad Gita during the celebrations. 

Mumbai, June 18: In a remarkable gathering of legends and emerging talent, several of India’s top tennis cricket players visited the E11 Bash office in Mumbai on Saturday.

The league also announced that E11 Bash will be coming to Kashmir for player trials from July 27 to 29, as part of its nationwide talent hunt.

 The event brought together iconic names like Krishna Satpute, popularly hailed as the God of Tennis Cricket" Sir Gopal Bata, the pride of Konkan, and rising international prospect Darshan Bandekar, alongside prominent players Babal Naik, Akshay Ghatval, Samir Vengurlekar, Jaydev Keluskar, and Sohail Shaikh.

The E11 Bash team warmly felicitated the athletes, with a large crowd of enthusiastic fans gathering for the opportunity to meet and interact with their heroes. The players expressed appreciation for the E11 Bash initiative and extended their best wishes for the success of the league.

Speaking on the occasion, owners of E11 Bash Neeraj Dhir and Feroze Peerzada described league as an "electrifying tennis ball cricket league that redefines fast-paced action with its unique 11-over format." The league features 10 dynamic men’s and women’s teams, promising high-octane cricket entertainment from the first ball.

In an effort to discover and nurture tennis cricket talent, the league will conduct nationwide trials starting June 28 in Thane, followed by selections across major Indian cities including Srinagar City

Founders Col. N.P. Singh (USA) and Sunil Mathew (Dubai), who are also partners with Conor McGregor in the World League of Fighters (WLF), joined the event virtually and thanked the players for their visit and encouraging words.

Also present from the E11 Bash team were Vice President Piyali Sinharoy, Global Health Advisor Dr. Santosh Pandey, National Coordinator Rajendra Rajam, National Advisor Ganesh Joshi, and Advisors Nagesh Mote, Vijay Pudota, Yashwant, and Namita Churi.

The event highlighted the growing prominence of tennis cricket in India and E11 Bash’s commitment to building a professional platform for players across the nation.(KNB)

 The event brought together iconic names like Krishna Satpute, popularly hailed as the God of Tennis Cricket" Sir Gopal Bata, the pride of Konkan, and rising international prospect Darshan Bandekar, alongside prominent players Babal Naik, Akshay Ghatval, Samir Vengurlekar, Jaydev Keluskar, and Sohail Shaikh.

The E11 Bash team warmly felicitated the athletes, with a large crowd of enthusiastic fans gathering for the opportunity to meet and interact with their heroes. The players expressed appreciation for the E11 Bash initiative and extended their best wishes for the success of the league.

Speaking on the occasion, owners Neeraj Dhir and Feroze Peerzada described E11 Bash as an "electrifying tennis ball cricket league that redefines fast-paced action with its unique 11-over format." The league features 10 dynamic men’s and women’s teams, promising high-octane cricket entertainment from the first ball.

In an effort to discover and nurture tennis cricket talent, the league will conduct nationwide trials starting June 28 in Thane, followed by selections across major Indian cities including Srinagar City

Founders Col. N.P. Singh (USA) and Sunil Mathew (Dubai) who are also partners with Conor McGregor in the World League of Fighters (WLF) also joined the event virtually, thanking the players for their visit and words of encouragement.

Also present from the E11 Bash team were Vice President Piyali Sinharoy, Global Health Advisor Dr Santosh Pandey, National Coordinator Rajendra Rajam, National Advisor Ganesh Joshi, and Advisors Nagesh Mote, Vijay Pudota, Yashwant, and Namita Churi.

The event highlighted the growing prominence of tennis cricket in India and E11 Bash’s commitment to building a professional platform for players across the nation.

Srinagar, Apr 25 : Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, who arrived in Kashmir following the deadly Pahalgam attack, strongly condemned the killings and called for national unity in the face of such “nasty actions.” During his visit to Srinagar on Friday, Gandhi met one of the injured victims and held discussions with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to understand the situation firsthand.

“It is a tragedy. I came here to get a sense of what’s going on and to help in any way I can,” Gandhi told reporters, adding that his party would fully support any action the government takes in response to the attack. “I assured both the Chief Minister and the LG that myself and my party are going to support fully.”

The Congress leader emphasized the importance of standing together, especially at a time when attempts are being made to divide society. “This idea of violence is designed to make brother fight brother. We must stand united and defeat terrorism once and for all,” he said.

Referring to the communal backlash being reported in some parts of the country, Gandhi said, “It’s sad to see that some people are targeting my brothers and sisters from Kashmir elsewhere in the country. That is not the way forward. We all must remain united.”

Although most of the injured victims had been shifted back, Gandhi managed to meet one of them during his hospital visit. “I couldn’t meet everyone who was injured or the families of those who lost their lives, but I want to send my love and affection to all of them. The entire country is standing with you.”

He also noted that people across Jammu and Kashmir have strongly condemned the attack, further adding that the unity shown by the public should be a message to those who try to spread hatred.

Rahul Gandhi revealed that he attended the all-party meeting convened by the government in Delhi yesterday. “The united opposition has condemned this brutal act and extended its complete support to the government in taking decisive action,” he said. [KNT]

New Delhi, Mar 19 : The Software Freedom Law Centre, India (SFLC.in), in its latest report “Let the Net Work 2.0”, has highlighted the crippling impact of internet shutdowns in Jammu & Kashmir. Despite the government taking efforts to accelerate J&K’s digital and economic growth framework, the region has seen the highest number of internet shutdowns in the last 13 years, at 434. This makes it impossible for seamless business operations, remote work, and larger economic growth in the region. 

 In 2023, J&K witnessed 13 internet shutdowns across different parts, cumulatively adding up to 435 hours of digital blackout. This resulted in huge economic loss for the, amounting to USD 8,598,324. While 2024 saw fewer shutdowns (only two instances totalling 44 hours and 20 minutes), the region faced a financial setback of USD 1,143,276. These figures reflect the devastating effect internet shutdowns have on entrepreneurs, e-commerce entities, freelancers, remote workers and small businesses that rely on digital connectivity. 

J&K’s entrepreneurs, who rely on digital platforms and inter-state/international trade, suffer repeated losses due to unpredictable shutdowns. Businesses dealing in handicrafts, saffron exports, and tourism services are unable to function efficiently in an economy that demands constant online presence to service potential customers. Even remote workers and freelancers are unable to work effectively. With a rise in online job opportunities after Covid-19, many in the State are working with companies located elsewhere. Frequent internet shutdowns make it difficult, putting them at a disadvantage compared to the other states in India.

The report maintains that these challenges are unfortunate, particularly because the government itself is actively working towards digitization in the State. It was only a couple years back that the government launched the Digital J&K Vision, where they are focusing on various aspects of digitization. Frequent internet shutdowns are in contradiction with this vision, as every time the internet is cut off the goals of digitization are in dissonance. 

 In its statement, SFLC.in stated that “Jammu & Kashmir has the potential to be a digital and economic powerhouse, but repeated internet shutdowns are cutting its entrepreneurs, students, and professionals off from progress. The contradiction between promoting Digital India and simultaneously shutting down the internet cannot be ignored. If we are serious about the economic progress of J&K and bridging the digital divide, we must start by ensuring uninterrupted digital access.” 

True economic and digital integration is impossible while shutting down the internet. The government’s aim for Digital India, skill development for the digital age and other focus areas for the region cannot succeed if residents are routinely cut off from the internet. There is immense potential for J&K, but this requires stable and unrestricted access.  

The Software Freedom Law Centre (SFLC.in) is a non-profit organization committed to defending digital rights, internet freedom, and privacy in India. [KNT]

Srinagar, Mar 12: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has returned the prosecution proposal against three IAS officers involved in the Arms Licences Scam, citing missing documents. The officers in question—Yasha Mudgal (AGMUT: 2007), Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary (AGMUT: 2009), and Niraj Kumar (AGMUT: 2010)—were under scrutiny, but the Chief Secretary of J&K has now been directed to resubmit the complete proposal within a week.

As per the MHA’s directive, the revised submission must include FIR copies, witness statements, investigation reports, recovery memos, and legal department opinions, among other documents.

The General Administration Department (GAD) of J&K, in a status report submitted to the J&K and Ladakh High Court on December 27, 2024, had earlier conveyed that the UT administration’s views on these three officers had been forwarded to the MHA for a final decision. 

Meanwhile, the case of IAS officer PK Pole was still under review, and clarification was sought regarding the jurisdictional aspect for two other officers, Prasanna Ramaswamy G and M. Raju, who had served in Ladakh.

In a separate communication on February 12, 2025, the MHA instructed the Chief Secretary of J&K to forward the CBI’s prosecution sanction proposals for M. Raju (then DM Kargil) and Prasanna Ramaswamy G (then DM Leh), with the approval of the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh.

The MHA’s latest status report, submitted on March 8, 2025, reiterated the need for a complete prosecution proposal for the three IAS officers and reaffirmed that the sanction proposal for those who served in Kargil and Leh should be sent with administrative approval.

The Arms Licences Scam case is scheduled for a hearing on March 20, 2025 in the Division Bench of the J&K and Ladakh High Court. [KNT]

New Delhi, Mar 11 : The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday declared the Mirwaiz led Awami Action Committee, and Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), led by Masroor Abbas Ansari, as unlawful associations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), citing thier involvement in activities detrimental to the sovereignty, security, and integrity of India.

In two separate official notifications, the MHA stated that JKIM and AAC and thier members have been supporting militancy, propagating anti-India narratives, and mobilizing funds for separatist and unlawful activities in Jammu and Kashmir. The government accused these organizations of inciting public disorder, promoting hatred against the constitutional authority, and advocating secessionism in the region.

The notifications further alleged that AAC and JKIM have encouraged the use of arms to destabilize law and order, while also engaging in efforts to fuel discontent among the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Centre warned that if the group’s activities were not immediately curbed, it would continue its anti-national agenda, including challenging Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India and disrupting public order.

Citing these concerns, the government exercised its powers under Section 3(1) of the UAPA to officially ban these organizations. The order will remain in effect for five years from the date of publication in the Official Gazette, unless revoked or modified under Section 4 of the Act.

The move is part of the Centre’s continued efforts to crack down on organizations it deems a threat to national security and territorial integrity. [KNT]

New Delhi, Mar 11,: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Tuesday declared the Mirwaiz led Awami Action Committee, and Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), led by Masroor Abbas Ansari, as unlawful associations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), citing thier involvement in activities detrimental to the sovereignty, security, and integrity of India.

In two separate official notifications, the MHA stated that JKIM and AAC and thier members have been supporting militancy, propagating anti-India narratives, and mobilizing funds for separatist and unlawful activities in Jammu and Kashmir. The government accused these organizations of inciting public disorder, promoting hatred against the constitutional authority, and advocating secessionism in the region.

The notifications further alleged that AAC and JKIM have encouraged the use of arms to destabilize law and order, while also engaging in efforts to fuel discontent among the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Centre warned that if the group’s activities were not immediately curbed, it would continue its anti-national agenda, including challenging Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India and disrupting public order.

Citing these concerns, the government exercised its powers under Section 3(1) of the UAPA to officially ban these organizations. The order will remain in effect for five years from the date of publication in the Official Gazette, unless revoked or modified under Section 4 of the Act.

The move is part of the Centre’s continued efforts to crack down on organizations it deems a threat to national security and territorial integrity. [KNT]

New Delhi, Mar 8: Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has said that the revocation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from Jammu and Kashmir is a possibility, but the current security scenario does not support its removal.

Speaking at the India Today Conclave, General Dwivedi stated that AFSPA could be withdrawn once the Army is confident that local law enforcement can effectively manage security challenges. He pointed to regions like Doda, Rajouri, and Kishtwar, where stability was improving, with efforts to boost tourism through projects like bed-and-breakfast accommodations and the enhanced use of the Mughal Road.

However, he acknowledged the recent surge in militant activity, which has necessitated the deployment of 15,000 additional troops. He emphasized that any decision on AFSPA’s removal would be made jointly by the local administration, the Union Home Ministry, and the Defence Ministry, based on ground realities. [KNT]