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UGC Declares 54 State Private Universities Defaulters

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UGC Declares 54 State Private Universities Defaulters

At least 54 state private universities have been declared defaulters by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for not submitting mandatory information under section 13 of the UGC Act, 1956, and making public disclosures on their website, according to officials.

Citing several reminders through e-mails and online meetings, the UGC said the universities had been directed to submit detailed information for inspection purposes, along with supporting documents duly attested by the registrar.

“They were also directed to upload the filled-in format and appendices on their website by giving a link on the home page so that the information is accessible to the students and the general public. The above was followed by several reminders through e-mails and online meetings,” UGC Secretary Manish Joshi said.

According to the guidelines on public self-disclosure, the higher education institutions must maintain a functional website for imparting information to stakeholders. “The information disclosed on the website should be easily accessible to everyone, on the home page, without any need for registration or login.

Additionally, there should be a ‘search’ facility available for easy navigation,” the guideline stated. Madhya Pradesh at 10 had the maximum number of defaulter universities, followed by Gujarat, Sikkim and Uttarakhand at eight, five, and four such institutions.

The UGC circulated the list of defaulting universities and warned them to take corrective steps immediately. According to UGC officials, further action could follow if the institutions continue to ignore the instructions.

The higher education regulator has tightened its monitoring of private universities in recent months. In July, it had warned 23 institutions for not appointing ombudspersons. (Agencies)

Sheikh Junaid Mahmood Gets Additional Charge as DIG Traffic Kashmir

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Vide Government order No.: 478-Home of 2025 Dated: 30.09.2025 Sheikh Junaid Mahmood, IPS, DIG IR Kashmir has been given additional charge of DIG Traffic Kashmir in place of Dr. Ajeet Singh, IPS, who stands relieved for undergoing PGDM-PPM course at Haryana.

Copy of the order is enclosed…….

Farooq Abdullah Praises J&K Government’s Tourism Revival Efforts

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Farooq Abdullah Praises J&K Government’s Tourism Revival Efforts

On World Tourism Day, National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah commended the Jammu and Kashmir government for its concerted efforts to revitalize the tourism sector in the wake of the tragic Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 lives this past April. Abdullah welcomed the reopening of various tourist destinations across the region, underscoring the importance of tourism as not just an economic driver but a vital social element for residents.

Celebrated on September 27, World Tourism Day serves as a reminder of the profound role that tourism plays globally. In a statement, Abdullah expressed his warm greetings to the residents of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as to global admirers of the region’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage.

“As the world acknowledges the significance of tourism, we take this opportunity to reflect on our commitment to J&K—a region where tourism sustains thousands of families and enriches our social fabric,” he said.

Abdullah highlighted the efforts made by the Omar Abdullah-led government in restoring the tourism sector during incredibly challenging periods, especially after the Pahalgam incident. His remarks were a testament to the government’s swift actions that aimed to restore tourist confidence and reaffirm J&K’s standing as a secure and inviting destination.

“The administration demonstrated dedication in reviving the tourism sector, establishing a strong groundwork for sustainable and long-lasting growth in the industry,” the NC president noted.

In response to the challenges faced, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced the reopening of multiple tourist locations previously shut down due to security concerns following the attack. This initiative aims to bolster tourism and foster renewal in an industry that significantly impacts the local economy.

Abdullah urged for a balanced development approach that also prioritizes lesser-explored regions such as Chenab and Pir Panjal, emphasizing the need for inclusive growth that benefits all areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

“This World Tourism Day must be a call to action for us to build a peaceful and progressive Jammu and Kashmir, where every visitor feels welcomed and valued, while every citizen reaps the benefits of tourism-led growth,” he articulated.

As Jammu and Kashmir aims to strengthen its tourism sector, the state stands committed to fostering sustainable tourism models that safeguard both the environment and local cultures, ensuring a thriving future for its communities.

Blast In Pakistan’s Quetta Kills 6, Injures Several Others

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Blast In Pakistan’s Quetta Kills 6, Injures Several Others

At least six people were killed and several others injured on Tuesday after a powerful explosion hit Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province, according to media reports.

The blast occurred near Zarghoon Road in Quetta, The Express Tribune newspaper reported.

Quoting the police, it said that six people were killed in the blast while at least 19 others were injured.

The Balochistan Health Department imposed an emergency in hospitals across the city, the Dawn newspaper reported, quoting Health Secretary Mujeebur Rehman.

“All consultants, doctors, pharmacists, staff nurses, and paramedical staff have been directed to remain present in the hospitals,” Rehman said.

“Nineteen people injured in the blast were brought to the Civil Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department and the Trauma Centre,” the newspaper quoted provincial Health Department Media Coordinator Dr Waseem Baig as saying. (Agencies)

Jammu Schools Change Timings from October 2023

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Jammu Schools Change Timings from October 2023

Jammu, Sept 30: The Directorate of School Education Jammu has changed school timings for government and private institutions across the Jammu division. This significant alteration takes effect from October 1, aimed at accommodating seasonal changes.

According to the new order, schools in the Summer Zone will function from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM during October. Starting in November, the timings will shift to 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM to better reflect the changing daylight hours.

However, schools located within the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) limits and surrounding urban areas will adhere to the original schedule of 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This decision allows urban schools to maintain familiar routines while adjusting slightly to accommodate seasonal changes.

In contrast, schools within the Winter Zone will operate from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM starting October 1. This change reflects the seasonal pattern where mornings are colder and daylight is less during winter months, ensuring students’ comfort and well-being.

The Directorate has emphasized strict compliance with these new timings, with warnings issued regarding potential disciplinary actions against schools failing to adhere to the order. This initiative seeks to ensure that students receive a safe and structured educational environment.

Education experts believe that these changes align with best practices in school management, especially in maintaining student health and optimizing learning. Local educational groups have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that these timing changes will positively impact student attendance and performance.

As Jammu gears up for this adjustment, parents and teachers will play a crucial role in communicating these changes effectively to students, ensuring a smooth transition into the new schedule beginning in October. Authorities urge all schools to comply with the revised timings to foster a better learning environment for students.

Trump Claims Support from Pakistan Leaders to End Gaza Conflict

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Trump Claims Support from Pakistan Leaders to End Gaza Conflict

On September 30, US President Donald Trump declared that Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir fully support his plan to resolve the ongoing Gaza conflict. He emphasized their involvement in the discussions alongside a variety of global leaders during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington.

Trump highlighted his latest diplomatic efforts, stating, “This afternoon after extensive consultation with our friends and partners throughout the region, I’m formally releasing our principles for peace, which people have really liked.” This release comes at a critical juncture as tensions in the region soar.

In his address, Trump specifically expressed gratitude to various Arab and Muslim leaders, asserting that their contributions shaped his proposed framework for peace. He mentioned significant engagements with leaders from several nations, underscoring their role in negotiating solutions for Gaza.

“The King of Jordan was with us at the United Nations. President of Turkey, President Erdogan, he’s a friend of mine, strong man but a good man. Prabowo from Indonesia, he is an amazing leader respected by everybody,” noted Trump, further illustrating the collaborative efforts among nations involved in the peace discussion.

Trump emphasized that Sharif and Munir provided unwavering support from the beginning of these negotiations. He mentioned that he received a statement confirming their commitment to backing his peace proposal—a move symbolizing a unified stand against the escalation of violence in Gaza.

According to Trump, his ‘Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict’ aims to transform Gaza into a secure, terror-free zone. He outlined a timeline for the cessation of hostilities, stating that if all involved parties agree to the proposal, the Israeli military will withdraw from conflict zones to facilitate a release of hostages.

“During this time, all military operations, including aerial and artillery bombardment, will be suspended, and battle lines will remain frozen until conditions are met for the complete staged withdrawal,” said Trump, emphasizing a humanitarian approach to the crisis.

In his plan, he called for the return of all hostages and set a timeline for the return of both living and deceased individuals within 72 hours of Israel’s endorsement of the agreement. Under this agreement, for every Israeli hostage whose remains are returned, Israel will release the remains of 15 Gazans.

Following this announcement, foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Qatar, and Egypt issued a joint statement praising Trump’s approach and commitment to ending the war in Gaza. They expressed support for his peace plan that focuses on rebuilding Gaza and advocating for the rights of Palestinian people.

The joint statement highlighted their readiness to engage positively with the United States and other involved parties to finalize and implement the agreement, underlining the necessity for security, stability, and humanitarian support in the region.

“We reaffirm our commitment to work with the US to ensure unrestricted humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza, the release of hostages, and an overall peace process,” added the foreign ministers, underlining the broader implications of Trump’s proposed initiative for lasting peace.

Sharif’s discussions with Trump occur amidst his participation in the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, where he also convened with other leaders. His visit highlighted Pakistan’s proactive role in fostering regional diplomacy.

Trump had previously hosted Munir in the White House over the summer, marking a pivotal moment in US-Pakistan relations. Their recent dialogues reflect an ongoing commitment to collaborative solutions amidst the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

Through these strategic engagements, both Pakistan and the US seek to contribute significantly to a resolution that not only addresses the immediate humanitarian crisis in Gaza but also paves the way for long-term stability and peace in the region.

Four-Hour Curfew Relaxation in Leh Amid Heightened Security

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Four-Hour Curfew Relaxation in Leh Amid Heightened Security

Authorities in Leh announced a four-hour relaxation of the week-long curfew starting at 10 am on Tuesday, following a tense week marked by protests and clashes. This decision allows shopkeepers to open their establishments as law enforcement maintains a strong presence in the area.

The relaxation follows an earlier two-hour respite from 4 pm on Monday, coinciding with the completion of the last rites for four individuals, including a retired Army personnel, who tragically lost their lives amid the violence during protests on September 24.

A police official confirmed that further decisions regarding curfew extensions would depend on the evolving situation throughout the day. Additional District Magistrate Ghulam Mohammed has instructed that essential services, including groceries, hardware, and vegetable shops, operate during the relaxation.

The police and paramilitary forces remain deployed in sensitive areas, maintaining vigilance to ensure public order. “Aside from the violence last Wednesday, there have been no untoward incidents reported so far,” the police official stated.

Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta has been actively overseeing security measures through regular high-level meetings. On Monday, he urged the citizens to uphold peace as it remains essential for development. He emphasized, “I urge all sections of society to maintain unity and harmony and not fall prey to the designs of anti-social and anti-national elements. The administration will ensure their safety, dignity, and progress.”

In his appeal, Gupta recognized the resilience of the people during these challenging circumstances, affirming that the government is committed to addressing legitimate issues democratically and through dialogue.

Additionally, he called for improved intelligence gathering, community engagement, and swift resolutions to public grievances to foster greater trust between the administration and the citizens.

Despite the brief relaxation, the administration has suspended mobile internet services in Leh town. Prohibitory orders banning gatherings of five or more people remain in force across significant areas of the Union Territory, including Kargil.

In context, the curfew was imposed on the evening of September 24, following violent protests against a shutdown organized by a faction of the Leh Apex Body (LAB). This protest aimed to demand statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to protect the rights of the people of Ladakh.

As a result of the unrest, police have taken more than 60 individuals into custody, including two councilors and renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who faced detention under the National Security Act. Wangchuk is currently lodged in a Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan.

Responding to these events, the Ladakh unit of the BJP has called for a comprehensive investigation to ensure accountability. The party also emphasized the need for the “immediate release of all innocent persons charged with minor offenses,” while expressing condolences to the families of those who died.

“Ladakh is known for its beauty and the resilience of its people. We urge everyone in Ladakh to uphold peace and harmony. It is crucial that we do not take law and order into our hands or fall prey to misinformation. Let us work together to ensure that peace prevails,” the BJP stated.

In its appeal, the party called upon the community to unite and support efforts toward healing and reconciliation, stating, “We request the cooperation of all citizens in maintaining peace and supporting efforts towards healing and reconciliation.”

Congress Accuses BJP-RSS of Conspiracy Against Rahul Gandhi

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Congress Accuses BJP-RSS of Conspiracy Against Rahul Gandhi

The Congress party on Monday intensified its attack on the BJP-RSS, accusing them of orchestrating a conspiracy against Rahul Gandhi. This development follows a former Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) leader’s controversial comments that included a chilling death threat against the Leader of Opposition. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera highlighted that those losing the ideological battle resort to threats as they perceive a growing support for Gandhi’s vision.

Khera pointed out a remark from Printu Mahadev, the ex-state president of ABVP, who stated during a televised debate that ‘Rahul Gandhi will be shot in the chest.’ According to Khera, this statement exemplifies the BJP’s desperation and need to stifle dissenting voices.

“When the BJP spokesperson makes such ominous threats in a public forum, and no action follows, it sets a dangerous precedent,” remarked Khera. He noted the alarming politicisation of security concerning Gandhi. Previously, the CRPF had leaked information regarding a letter intended for Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, discussing Gandhi’s safety and security concerns.

“This reeks of conspiracy,” Khera insisted, urging the public to question who is behind this orchestrated campaign against Gandhi. He suggested that the BJP cannot tolerate the rising tide of support for Gandhi from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and fears their ideological inadequacy is being exposed.

During a video statement, Khera underscored the party’s stance, declaring that violence would not be tolerated. He stated emphatically, “Your time is up; your theft has been exposed, and you’re responding with threats.” His remarks resonate with the Congress’ ongoing narrative regarding alleged electoral fraud by the BJP, termed ‘vote chori’ by Gandhi.

Khera also took to social media, expressing that when the RSS fails to crush opposing ideologies, their affiliates turn to threats and violence. He likened current threats against Gandhi to historical precedents of violence against dissenters, warning of a resurgence of a toxic atmosphere that promotes hatred and intimidation.

The Congress general secretary K C Venugopal also weighed in on the situation, asserting that the government must act swiftly to address Mahadev’s remarks or face allegations of complicity. Venugopal sent an official letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, describing the threats as dangerous for both Gandhi and democratic integrity.

Venugopal voiced the gravity of the situation, stating that Mahadev’s words represent a calculated assault, undermining the safety assurances every citizen deserves. His letter asked, “What does your party stand for? Are you endorsing the politics of intimidation?”

He stressed that the threat was not merely a slip of the tongue but rather a symptom of a politically-charged atmosphere poised for violence against political leaders. Venugopal demanded immediate legal action to ensure that threats against Gandhi are taken seriously, emphasizing that inaction will lead to further normalisation of violence.

“The nation calls for immediate and decisive justice,” he warned, highlighting the collective demand for clarity on the government’s stance regarding threats posed to the Leader of Opposition.

As tensions mount, the Congress party insists that the safety of its leaders reflects the health of India’s democracy. Allegations against the BJP-RSS have reached a critical point, raising urgent questions about political accountability and the responsibilities of governing bodies to protect elected officials.

Congress Likely to Boycott JPC Over Controversial Bills

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Congress Likely to Boycott JPC Over Controversial Bills

The Congress party is likely to stay away from the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) set up to investigate three contentious Bills concerning the removal of government officials arrested for 30 consecutive days on serious charges. This decision, according to party insiders, will be formally communicated to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla shortly.

In a show of united opposition, at least three other parties—the Trinamool Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Aam Aadmi Party—have already declared their intention not to participate in the committee. The Samajwadi Party has also signaled support for a collective boycott, leaving multiple parties undecided, yet none have expressed interest in joining the committee.

Earlier this month, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla commented on the situation, noting that no party had officially notified him regarding a boycott of the JPC. He stated,

“On the issue of JPC, no political party has communicated to me in writing on this subject,”

addressing concerns from various political quarters.

The controversy surrounding the Bills began during the last day of the Monsoon Session when Home Minister Amit Shah introduced three crucial pieces of legislation:

  • The Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill
  • The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirtieth Amendment) Bill
  • The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill

These proposals have significant implications, seeking to allow the removal of a sitting Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and other ministers if they face arrest for 30 consecutive days on serious charges. This legislative effort has sparked intense backlash across the political spectrum, with numerous parties labeling the Bills as unconstitutional and suggesting they are politically motivated attempts to target opposition leaders controlling state power.

The JPC, still awaiting formation, is set to include 21 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha. However, as protests escalate, the timeline for its constitution remains uncertain.

While many in the opposition call for collaborative action, the lack of clarity surrounding participation in the JPC raises questions about the future of these controversial Bills. The coming days shall reveal how this political saga unfolds within Parliament as parties consider the implications of their possible absence.

District Reasi Cycling Championship Set for October 5

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District Reasi Cycling Championship Set for October 5

The Cycle Association of Jammu & Kashmir (CAJK) plans to host the District Reasi Cycling Championship on October 5, 2023, at 10 AM at the Sports Stadium in Reasi. This much-anticipated sporting event will invite cyclists from across the district to showcase their talents in various age categories.

Competitions will occur in several classes, including Under-14 Youth, Sub-Junior, Junior, and Elite Group. Participants can compete in both Road and MTB cycling categories, making it a thrilling day for cycling enthusiasts and spectators alike.

To encourage local talent, the event aims to boost the profile of cycling in the region. Winners of the District Championship will qualify to compete in the prestigious UT Level Cycling Championship, further enhancing their cycling careers.

Interested riders can register by reaching out to the following CAJK representatives:

  • Pawan Dev Singh (District President) – 9797597475
  • Vishal Singh Thakur – 8492913990
  • Sourav Verma – 6005895151
  • Om Parkash Sharma (General Secretary, CAJK) – 9419100980
  • S.S. Gill (Chief Coordinator) – 9419108337
  • Tajinder Singh (Treasurer) – 9419153980

Participants must ensure they bring necessary documents at registration. These include an Aadhaar Card, Domicile Certificate, Date of Birth certificate, and two passport-size photographs.

The District Reasi Cycling Championship stands as a vital platform for budding cyclists in Jammu & Kashmir, reflecting the growing popularity of cycling as both a competitive sport and a recreational activity. As the event date approaches, local cycling enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the chance to prove their mettle on the cycling track.

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