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Mahagathbandhan Leaders Meet in Delhi to Discuss Bihar Seats

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The Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD)-led Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) convened in Delhi today to negotiate its seat-sharing arrangement for the high-stakes Bihar Assembly elections. Senior leaders, including RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav and his son Tejashwi Yadav, arrived in the capital to engage in critical discussions with Congress leadership on allocating seats

Amid growing pressure on the opposition bloc, the urgency of the meeting heightened after the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) announced its seat-sharing formula. The friction within the Mahagathbandhan became apparent as they aimed to present a united front against the NDA.

On Sunday, Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) leader Mukesh Sahni, who is also part of the Grand Alliance, candidly acknowledged the internal rifts. “Mahagathbandhan has become a bit unwell. We are going to Delhi, and all the doctors are in Delhi, so better treatment will happen there,” Sahni stated humorously, reflecting on the alliance’s internal dynamics before departing.

Despite the underlying tensions, Bihar Congress leader Shakeel Ahmad Khan expressed optimism regarding the alliance. He downplayed rumors of disintegration, stating, “A meeting will be held, and everything will be finalized. The Mahagathbandhan is united, and the current corrupt government is certain to go.” His comments aimed to reassure party members and supporters of the coalition’s stability.

Notably, the NDA’s seat-sharing agreement solidifies the competition. Under this pact, Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and the BJP will contest 101 seats each, while Chirag Paswan’s Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) has secured 29 seats. Additional seats will go to the Hindustani Awam Party (Secular) led by Jitan Ram Manjhi and the Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM), both of whom will contest six seats.

The Bihar Legislative Assembly elections are scheduled to occur in two phases: November 6 and November 11, with the counting of votes set for November 14. As the election date draws nearer, the Mahagathbandhan’s seat-sharing arrangement may profoundly influence the opposition’s strategy against the well-established NDA.

As the coalition faces challenges, the ability to finalize their seat-sharing strategy and present a united front could determine the opposition’s success in Bihar’s political landscape.

Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews IMD’s Multi-Hazard Early Warning DSS

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Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh, reviewed the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) innovative Multi-Hazard Early Warning Decision Support System (DSS) today. His visit underscored the project’s significant cost savings of ₹250 crore.

During the review at IMD headquarters in New Delhi, Dr. Singh commended the team for creating a self-reliant, technology-driven forecasting platform. This system enhances disaster preparedness and public safety across the country while reducing dependence on foreign solutions.

The DSS not only saves crucial funds but has also slashed annual maintenance costs by ₹5.5 crore. This aligns perfectly with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative aimed at fostering self-sufficiency within Indian industries.

Furthermore, Dr. Singh explored the “Mausamgram” project, which focuses on delivering hyperlocal weather forecasts at the village level. The platform provides detailed forecasts including hourly updates for 36 hours, three-hour forecasts for five days, and six-hour forecasts extending to ten days. Users can easily access weather data by inputting their PIN code, selecting their location, or by identifying their state, district, block, and gram panchayat. Notably, Mausamgram supports all official Indian languages, ensuring that accurate data reaches every citizen.

The IMD has also made strides in modernizing its forecasting and alert generation processes. It has effectively increased the lead time for warnings from five to seven days, thereby cutting down preparation time by three hours and enhancing forecast accuracy by 15–20%. This level of precision is vital for timely responses to weather emergencies.

Dr. Singh encouraged IMD officials to incorporate AI-based tools into the “Mausamgram” initiative, urging them to make the service more interactive and user-centric. He highlighted the importance of enhancing the existing Multi-Hazard Early Warning System to ensure that citizens receive clear and actionable alerts for disaster preparedness.

A significant recognition was the IMD’s achievement of the National Award for e-Governance 2025 at the recent e-Governance conference in Visakhapatnam. Dr. Singh praised this award as a testament to IMD’s excellence in digital public service delivery through its DSS.

In addition to technological advancements, he applauded the Special Swachhata Program, which generated ₹30 lakh through the disposal of e-waste and old files. This initiative not only cleared 600 square meters of space but also demonstrated IMD’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Participating actively in the Special Swachhata Program 5.0 at **“Mausam Bhavan”**, Dr. Singh participated in the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign by planting a sapling. He honored 50 “Safai Mitras” for their tireless efforts in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene at the IMD.

Looking to the future, Dr. Singh shared his vision for Mission Mausam, which aims to enhance IMD’s forecasting capabilities by the year 2030. This ambitious initiative includes plans for 5×5 km-scale hazard forecasting, dynamic impact-based forecasts, and risk-based early warnings. It seeks to ensure that timely alerts reach every household, fulfilling the mission of “Har Har Mausam, Har Ghar Mausam”.

Jammu Motor Mahindra introduces New Bolero Range with Bold New Design, Upgraded Interiors and Modern Features

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Jammu, Oct 11th, 2025: Jammu Motor Vehicles LLP (an Authorised Dealership of MAHINDRA & MAHINDRA) at B C Road, Rehari, Jammu, today introduced the New Bolero range. The price for the new Bolero starts at ₹ 7.99 Lakh (ex-showroom), and the newly introduced top-end B8 variant is priced at ₹ 9.69 Lakh (ex-showroom). The new Bolero Neo starts at ₹8.49 Lakh (ex-showroom), with the top-end variant, N11, priced at ₹9.99 Lakh (ex-showroom). With this launch, the Bolero range continues to uphold its iconic appeal with refined aesthetics, enhanced comfort, and modern features The vehicle was unveiled by Mr Shiv Kumar Sharma, Hon’ble Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Jammu-Samba-Kathua, in the presence of Sh Swatantar Aggarwal-Chairman of Aggarwal Group, Mr Vineet Aggarwal, Mr Nitin Aggarwal, other Directors & Family members of Aggarwal Group along with dignitaries from prestigious Banks, NBFCs, Customers and Staff Members of Jammu Motor Vehicles LLP

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Vineet Aggarwal, Managing Partner, Jammu Motor Vehicles LLP, said, “With a legacy of 25 years and over 16 Lakh satisfied customers, the Bolero remains a versatile SUV. It excels at navigating diverse terrains, from bustling city streets to rugged rural landscapes, offering exceptional adaptability and value. Building on this enduring legacy, the new Bolero range has been thoughtfully designed to meet the aspirations of a dynamic and rapidly evolving New India. With a perfect blend of toughness, contemporary styling, enhanced comfort, and modern features, the new Bolero and Bolero Neo deliver a powerful SUV experience that shines equally in urban environments and challenging terrains.

New Bolero

The New Bolero blends bold design, modern features, and enhanced comfort while staying true to its authentic toughness. With a new bold grille, fog lamps, and diamond-cut alloy wheels, the Bolero stands as India’s tough and reliable SUV. Bolder and more stylish, it is ideal for those who value a rugged vehicle with comfort and reliability. Bolero remains the trusted choice for rural youth, entrepreneurs, and families, symbolizing achievement and pride.

Inside, the Bolero offers a new 17.8 cm touchscreen infotainment & music system, steering-mounted controls, and leatherette upholstery with enhanced seat comfort. The advanced ride & handling tech – RideFlo – delivers enhanced stability & control, with improved suspension architecture, engineered for any terrain. The Bolero’s core DNA remains unchanged and uncompromised, powered by the mHAWK75 engine delivering power of 55.9 kW and 210 Nm torque, with body-on-frame construction. New colour option includes Stealth Black, along with existing Diamond White, DSAT Silver, and Rocky Beige.

New Bolero Neo

The New Bolero Neo combines iconic toughness with urban sophistication and is suitable for customers who seek a bold and practical vehicle that offers modern comfort and capability. The sleek new grille with striking horizontal accents and dark metallic grey R16 alloy wheels set the Bolero Neo apart. It features two new interior theme options – Lunar Grey and Mocha Brown – enhancing the overall aesthetic. Bolero Neo caters to youthful, ambitious urban and semi-urban buyers seeking advanced technology, contemporary styling, and enhanced comfort, while upholding the rugged DNA of Bolero.

Comfort is prioritised with leatherette upholstery and enhanced seat ergonomics. The 22.8 cm infotainment system is complemented with a rear-view camera and a USB-C-type charging port. The advanced ride & handling tech – RideFlo – along with MTV-CL and Frequency Dependent Damping (FDD) ensure smooth rides even on tough roads, with enhanced steering feedback, precision handling, and improved brake dynamics. Powered by the mHAWK100 engine delivering power of 73.5 kW and 260 Nm torque, the Bolero Neo includes cruise control and Multi-Terrain Technology (MTT) for enhanced traction over broken roads through a locking differential. New colours include Jeans Blue and Concrete Grey, and three dual-tone options, along with existing Diamond White, Stealth Black, Pearl White, and Rocky Beige.

Mr Vineet Aggarwal further said, “Jammu Motor Mahindra has a wide range of Mahindra Vehicles & Network across Jammu province by way of having Showrooms at B C Road Rehari, Kunjwani, Poonch, Reasi, Banihal and Kishtwar, offering a complete range of Premium & Personal SUVs like New Thar, Thar Roxx, SCORPIO-N, XUV 7OO, SCORPIO CLASSIC, BOLERO Neo and BEV vehicles XEV 9E and BE6 in their different variants along with the facility of In-House Finance & Exchange of Used Cars to Customers”.

Going further, Mr Vineet Aggarwal stated that Jammu Motor Mahindra has established its active presence in the Commercial Vehicles Segment as well by having its Showrooms in Greater Kailash, Mishriwala, Poonch, Reasi, and Kishtwar, presenting vehicles like Bolero Pick up, Maxx Pick up, Bolero Camper, and Veero. Jammu Motor Mahindra also offers Last Mile Mobility Vehicles like Treo Plus Auto, Alfa Load, Jeeto, and Treo Auto, etc., at its showrooms at Greater Kailash, Digiana, Poonch & Kishtwar. He continued, “Jammu Motor Mahindra has its state-of-the-art Workshop and Bodyshop with professionally trained manpower and high-tech diagnostic and repair equipment at Lane No. 12, Industrial Area, Gangyal, Jammu to provide the best possible services to customers.”

The Chief Guest, Mr Shiv Kumar Sharma, Hon’ble Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Jammu-Samba-Kathua, spoke on the occasion and said, “I am honored to be a part of this momentous occasion, the launch of the new Bolero and Bolero Neo. Today, we gather to witness the unveiling of two exceptional vehicles that embody the spirit of adventure, toughness, and innovation. The new Bolero range is a testament to Mahindra’s commitment to delivering powerful and reliable vehicles that meet the evolving needs of customers. With its bold design, enhanced comfort, and modern features, the Bolero and Bolero Neo are poised to redefine the SUV experience. I would like to congratulate the entire Mahindra Team for their tireless efforts in bringing these incredible vehicles to life. Your dedication and passion are truly commendable. To valued customers, I would like to say that the new Bolero and Bolero Neo are more than just vehicles – they are a symbol of freedom, adventure, and the joy of driving. I hope you will experience the thrill of driving these exceptional vehicles and create unforgettable memories. Thank you, and I wish the Jammu Mahindra Team continued success.”

While concluding the function, Mr Nitin Aggarwal, Partner of Jammu Motor Mahindra, thanked the Chief Guest and all distinguished guests for gracing the occasion with their presence. He also assured that Jammu Motor Mahindra strives hard to serve its customers and makes every possible effort to provide the best services at all times it remains.

Saroori slams government over stalled Singhpora-Wailu and Sudhmahadev tunnels, warns of heavy losses to Chenab Valley and Kashmir

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Kishtwar, 06 Oct. 2025: During his tour of Singhpora–Chatroo in Kishtwar district, Senior Congress Leader and Former Minister Ghulam Mohammad Saroori launched a sharp attack on the government, questioning why the work on the Singhpora–Wailu and Sudhmahadev tunnels has been stalled despite the construction of the National Highway. Appealing directly to Union Minister for Road Transport Nitin Gadkari, Saroori urged the immediate resumption of tunnel works, warning that from November onwards Kishtwar and the entire Chenab Valley would lose vital connectivity with Kashmir, inflicting heavy losses on farmers, traders, and the common people.

Speaking at the Singhpora-Wailu tunnel site, Saroori said Singhpora, a Panchayat area in Inderwal, is the critical point where the National Highway (NH-244) was supposed to pass through a tunnel connecting to Anantnag (Wailu). He explained that nearly 80% of the work on NH-244, which runs from Chenani to Doda, Kishtwar, and up to Singhpora, has already been completed, but the crucial tunnel work has been inexplicably halted.

Saroori questioned the government’s intent, saying: “Why has the tunnel point been stopped when the National Highway is almost complete and was supposed to extend up to Khanabal? What reasons are there to keep it held up?”

He recalled that two years ago, the TLL company was awarded the tender, but because it had a joint venture with a Canadian company, the contract was cancelled by the then Foreign Minister. Later, even after fresh tenders were issued, the project was once again postponed citing “technical reasons,” despite the Detailed Project Report (DPR) already being completed.

Condemning this delay, Saroori pointed out that a small 300-meter stretch of unfinished road has already caused crores worth of losses to Kashmir’s farmers and fruit growers. “This shows the government’s deficiency and failure. Just look at how much Kashmir and its fruit growers are losing today,” he said, blaming official negligence for blocking fruit trade and livelihoods.

The Congress leader warned that with the onset of winter, the Chatroo–Sinthan Top road will close for six months starting November, cutting off Kishtwar and the Chenab Valley from Kashmir entirely. “This road closure will block the route connecting Kishtwar and the entire Chenab Valley with Kashmir,” he said.

Saroori stressed that the route has enormous benefits. “The tourist spots here are excellent; it is a beautiful forest area. In addition, the Amarnath Yatra pilgrims traveling to Pahalgam will have a shorter bypass route, and the fruit trade will also benefit from a direct bypass road.”

Addressing the gathering of locals from Chatroo and Singhpora, he said: “The entire population here demands that this tunnel be completed at the earliest, because this connectivity is our lifeline for livelihood and development.”

In his concluding remarks, Saroori made a strong appeal to the Central Government and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari: “Immediately issue the tender for this tunnel work and start the construction so that this vital connectivity can be completed without further delay.”

As part of his ongoing tour, Saroori also visited Ganaie Mohalla, Passerkote, Kidroo, and Singhpora areas of Tehsil Chatroo, where he met various public delegations. People apprised him of their problems and grievances, to which Saroori assured that he would highlight the same with the concerned authorities for redressal.

Prominent political workers and local leaders including Mohd Amin Naik, Akhtar Hussain Bhat, Atta Mohd Lone, Shahanawas Hussain Malik, Akhtar Hussain Ahanger, Irfan Ahmed Mattoo, Ghulam Hassan, Najeeb Ahmed, Sajjad Ahmed, Farooq Ahmed, Asif Ahmed Malik, Rustam Ali, Mushtaq Ahmed, Javed Ahmed and others accompanied Mr. Saroori during the said visit.

Jammu and Kashmir Shines at National Kayaking Championship

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Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) captivated audiences with an impressive performance at the 10th All India Inter-Sports Authority of India (SAI) Kayaking and Canoeing Championships, which concluded today at the National Centre of Excellence (NCOE), Alleppey. J&K finished fourth overall in the senior category, participating alongside athletes from eight SAI centres nationwide.

The four-day tournament saw fierce competition and showcased some of India’s finest kayaking and canoeing talent. NCOE Alleppey emerged as the overall champions, accumulating a remarkable tally of 24 gold and 15 silver medals. Following closely were NCOE Bhopal and NCOE Jagatpur, who also delivered stellar performances.

In total, Jammu and Kashmir athletes managed to win eight medalstwo gold, two silver, and four bronze—marking one of their best outings at the national level. The standout performers were Mohammad Hussain and Sajad Hussain, who boasted double gold wins in the senior men’s canoe doubles 200m and 500m events, further solidifying their status in the sport.

Hussain and Hussain previously gained attention for their exceptional skills during the Khelo India Water Sports Festival at the scenic Dal Lake, Srinagar in August. Their recent victories highlight the continuous progress of Jammu and Kashmir in national sports arenas.

The Alleppey championship enlisted 197 athletes, including 92 female competitors, battling for honors across 96 medal events. Other prominent participating centres included Bhopal, Jagatpur, Port Blair, Bilaspur, Roorkee, and EME as they vied for national titles.

Officials noted the significant impact of the Khelo India Water Sports Festival on promoting water sports throughout India. The event gained national recognition after Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged its achievers in his August “Mann Ki Baat” address, providing a boost to aspiring athletes.

NCOE Alleppey’s performance was nothing short of dominating, claiming an impressive number of medals and securing their top position among competing centres. NCOE Bhopal, with 11 golds in the senior category and topping the sub-junior section with seven golds, significantly contributed to the competition’s overall excitement. Similarly, NCOE Jagatpur secured a place among the top three centres across all categories, indicating the competitiveness of the event.

The growing participation in this festive sporting event reflects a significant interest in water sports, particularly in states like Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Kerala, which emerged as the top-performing states during the Khelo India Water Sports Festival. This development underscores India’s expanding athletic landscape, especially in water sports, engaging a broader audience and nurturing talent in regions once deemed less competitive.

As J&K athletes continue to excel in kayaking and canoeing, their achievements serve as inspiration to future generations, encouraging further participation and support for water sports across the country.

Javed Akhtar Critiques Film Censorship Double Standards

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Veteran screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar has pointedly criticized the functioning of film regulatory bodies in India, highlighting the disparity in how films are censored. He argues that movies reflecting societal realities often face challenges, whereas those laden with vulgarity and regressive values find it easier to pass through the censors’ scrutiny.

Speaking during the inaugural session of the Anantrang Mental Health Cultural Festival on Friday, Akhtar highlighted the pivotal role audience choices play in determining the success of cinematic offerings. He stated, “In this country, vulgarity will still be passed by the film boards. They don’t realise that these are wrong values — a male chauvinistic view that humiliates women. But what will not be passed is something that shows the mirror to society.”

His remarks came as he emphasized that films merely reflect the realities of society and should not be held accountable for them. He used a compelling metaphor, saying, “A film is a window into society through which you peek. Closing the window will not fix what is happening outside.”

Akhtar also delved into the issue of hyper-masculine portrayals in films, linking them directly to mental health concerns. He suggested that the popularity of such cinema hinges on societal acceptance. “It is because of the mental health of men that such films are being made. If men’s mental health improves, such films won’t be made — and even if they are, they won’t work,” he articulated.

He drew an insightful parallel, stating, “In show business, the audience is god. A bad audience makes a bad film successful.” This statement underscores the sentiment that discerning audience choices can help elevate the quality of cinema produced.

On the topic of vulgar songs and a perceived decline in artistic taste, Akhtar expressed his discontent. He recounted how throughout his illustrious career, he consistently turned down requests to write vulgar tracks. “During the 80s, many songs had double meanings, but I refused to write them. I’m not sad that people recorded them; I’m sad that those songs became superhits. That shows it’s the audience that shapes the industry,” he lamented.

Additionally, he mentioned the controversial yet iconic song “Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai,” arguing that parents proudly allowing their daughters to dance to such tracks reflect a troubling decline in societal values. He concluded, “If these are the values of society, what can you expect from films and songs? Society is responsible — cinema is only a manifestation.”

Despite his critique, Akhtar did praise the recent film Saiyaara, directed by Mohit Suri and featuring newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda. He described its music as “refreshingly calm and soulful,” stating, “The music of Saiyaara has a stillness, an old charm. Today, music has become so frantic that percussion drowns the voice. When something soothing comes, it feels like shade in harsh sunlight.”

When discussing artistic expression and emotion, Akhtar provided a thoughtful perspective on the impact of sad songs. He noted that denying sadness can lead to negative repercussions: “It’s not good to deny sadness; otherwise, it will resurface elsewhere. Earlier, every film had one or two sad songs, but now they’ve vanished because we believe ‘achhe din aa gaye hain’. This denial of sadness is unhealthy — accept it, cry if you must. That’s what keeps the mind healthy,” he concluded with a smile.

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi Visits India

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Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will visit Deoband in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday and Agra on Sunday during his six-day tour of India, as confirmed by officials.

During his day-long stay in Deoband, Muttaqi plans to visit the prominent Darul Uloom Deoband, a major Islamic seminary in South Asia. There, he will engage with senior clerics, scholars, and administrators at the institution. His scheduled arrival is around noon, followed by a return to Delhi by evening, as outlined by local police.

Superintendent of Police Sagar Jain has announced thorough security measures for this visit, deploying extensive police and intelligence units throughout the district. The administration collaborates closely with the Darul Uloom authorities to ensure a seamless program.

Mufti Rehan Usmani, the office in-charge of Darul Uloom, stated that preparations are in full swing to welcome the Afghan minister. “Initially, we anticipated a two-day visit, but due to a tight schedule, it has been condensed to one day. He will meet with Rector Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani, Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind President Maulana Arshad Madani, and other senior clerics,” Usmani told PTI.

In addition to these meetings, Muttaqi is expected to interact with Afghan students enrolled at the seminary, and tour its significant historic library, renowned for housing thousands of rare Islamic manuscripts. The visit has generated eager anticipation among students and local residents.

On the following day, Sunday, the Afghan Foreign Minister is slated to journey to Agra for a visit to the famed Taj Mahal. He plans to depart from Delhi at approximately 8 a.m. via the Yamuna Expressway, reaching Shilpgram, near the eastern entrance of the monument, by 11 a.m.

To facilitate the visit, officials will transport him to the Taj Mahal in an electric golf cart. His itinerary includes spending roughly an hour and a half at the monumental site before returning to Delhi in the afternoon.

Agra authorities report that elaborate security arrangements are in place for this important visit. A senior official emphasized, “No lapses will be tolerated, and security will remain tight throughout his stay.”

This trip marks a significant diplomatic moment, being the first visit to India by a senior Taliban minister since the group regained control of Kabul four years ago.

The timing of the visit holds strategic significance, especially considering the current tensions between India and Afghanistan regarding Pakistan on issues like cross-border terrorism and regional security.

Atal Dulloo Reviews Transportation of Kashmir Fruit Consignments

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Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a high-level meeting today to assess measures for the efficient transportation of fruit consignments from the Kashmir Valley to major markets outside the Union Territory. The meeting took place at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, aiming to optimize logistics during the peak harvest season.

In attendance were key officials, including the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Secretary of the Transport Department, Inspector General of Traffic, Transport Commissioner, and representatives from the Agriculture Production Department. The gathering aimed to ensure that vital fruit products reach markets in a timely manner.

During the high-level review, Chief Secretary Dulloo focused on the operational status of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44). He sought an update on the movement of fruit-laden trucks from the Valley and emphasized the need for their unhindered passage. With significant delays reported in previous weeks due to road conditions, he stressed the importance of ensuring that no fruit truck remains stranded.

Dulloo instructed all relevant departments to guarantee the safe and priority passage of fruit trucks along the highway. He also ordered immediate action for clearing any vehicles that had become stuck on either side of NH-44.

Recognizing the importance of expanding transportation options, the Chief Secretary urged the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, to investigate the possibility of introducing rail freight services. This initiative could facilitate the transport of horticultural produce to major Indian markets such as Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. He highlighted the need for direct consultation with local fruit growers and coordination with the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu, to explore this beneficial option.

In response, the Divisional Commissioner assured Dulloo that sufficient transportation facilities are currently in place at reasonable rates. He reported that local fruit growers are not facing major logistical hurdles, fostering optimism in the sector.

Secretary of the Transport Department, Avny Lavasa, stated that if there is a shortage of transport vehicles, the J&K SRTC fleet will mobilize to ensure uninterrupted evacuation of fruit produce. This support aims to fortify the movement of consignments to markets outside the Valley, reiterating the government’s commitment to the embattled horticulture sector.

The Chief Secretary underscored that seamless transportation of horticultural products serves as a critical pillar of Kashmir’s economy. He instructed all concerned departments to maintain close cooperation and adopt proactive measures to ensure the timely movement of fruit consignments throughout the ongoing harvest season. This collaborative effort aims to safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and ensure that Kashmir’s rich agricultural heritage thrives.

Minister Sakeena Itoo Reviews Education Projects in J&K

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Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, chaired a high-level review meeting today at the Civil Secretariat, focusing on the progress of ongoing projects within the School Education and Higher Education Departments in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting brought together key officials from relevant departments to discuss the performance and current status of various educational initiatives.

Senior officials attending the meeting included Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department, Shantmanu; Secretary School Education, Ram Niwas Sharma; Director General School Education Kashmir, Dr. G.N. Itoo, and several other notable figures. Together, they participated in a detailed evaluation of developmental initiatives, infrastructure projects, and academic reforms underway across the region.

During the review, Itoo focused on projects under the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA), Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA), and the CAPEX budget. She underscored the importance of timely execution of infrastructure developments, digital learning, teacher training, and curriculum enhancement, which are vital for elevating educational standards in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Minister directed executing agencies to prioritize the completion of all college construction projects in a timely manner while adhering strictly to quality standards. She insisted on rigorous monitoring and field inspections to address and eliminate any implementation hurdles that could arise.

With a specific focus on addressing faculty shortages, Itoo encouraged the Higher Education Department to explore options for enhancing remuneration for academic arrangement teachers. This measure aims to draw more qualified educators to fill temporary posts until the permanent vacancies are adequately addressed. Additionally, she directed officials to ensure the creation of sanctioned posts for all newly established degree colleges to facilitate smoother operational efficiency.

In her review of the School Education Department, the Minister highlighted the urgent need for digital transformation of classrooms. She called for expediting the installation of smart classrooms, ICT labs, and e-content facilities, particularly in rural and remote areas, to effectively bridge the educational divide.

Itoo urged Chief Education Officers (CEOs) to make optimal use of Samagra Shiksha funds and coordinate closely with project-executing agencies to achieve early completion of various works. Her directive aims to enhance the educational infrastructure of Jammu and Kashmir significantly.

To ensure accountability, the Minister announced the appointment of a Nodal Officer in each district tasked with liaising with the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for prompt vigilance clearances. Furthermore, she instructed CEOs to submit monthly progress reports to their respective Heads of Departments, fostering a culture of transparency and regular monitoring.

Lastly, Itoo emphasized the need for the swift finalization of proposals for de-freezing teacher posts, which will provide opportunities for timely recruitment and bolster the quality of education across Jammu and Kashmir. Her proactive measures aim to create a robust educational environment that nurtures talent and supports academic excellence in the region.

J&K: National Conference Names Three Candidates For Oct 24 Rajya Sabha Polls

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The ruling National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday announced the names of its three candidates for the Rajya Sabha polls to be held on October 24, and said discussions were on with the Congress for the fourth seat.

Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here, National Conference (NC) general secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar said the party has finalised the names of Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan, Shammi Oberoi and Sajad Kitchloo as its nominees.

“The party has kept one seat open, and talks are on with the Congress,” Sagar said.

Ramzan, a senior NC leader from north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, lost last year’s Assembly elections to Peoples Conference chief Sajad Lone.

Oberoi, a businessman-turned-politician, is the treasurer and Sikh face of the party, while Kitchloo, a former minister and ex-MLA from Kisthwar, lost last year’s Assembly polls to BJP’s Shagun Parihar.

Jammu and Kashmir has four Rajya Sabha seats.

Sagar said the names were finalised after a meeting of the NC’s core committee.

Asked if the party has zeroed in on the name of its candidate for the Budgam Assembly bypoll scheduled for November 11, NC leader Nasir Aslam Wani, who accompanied Sagar, said deciding candidates for the Rajya Sabha polls was a priority, as the last date for filing nominations was approaching.

“Meetings and discussions will take place for that (Budgam bypoll),” Wani, who is an advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, said.

The seat fell vacant when Abdullah vacated it and retained the Ganderbal seat after winning both constituencies in last year’s Assembly polls.

Wani also welcomed the Supreme Court giving four weeks to the Centre to file its response on pleas seeking restoration of statehood to J-K.

“We welcome the timeframe, and are hopeful that a decision will be taken and statehood will be restored to J-K,” he said.