Jammu, September 24: The National Foundation for Journalism & Media (NFJM) has officially inaugurated its first Press & Media Centre at F-1/8C, Trikuta Shopping Complex, B.C. Road, Jammu.

This significant event took place in the presence of esteemed media professionals, journalists, and community members. Dr. Tahir Rufayee, Chairman of NFJM, performed the inaugural ceremony, emphasizing the Centre’s mission and vision.

Dr. Rufayee stated, “This Press & Media Centre will serve as a hub for fair reporting, informed public engagement, and responsible journalism.” He further affirmed NFJM’s commitment to strengthening democratic values through truthful and ethical media practices.

The Press & Media Centre will offer comprehensive facilities for news reporting and publications, press conferences, media briefings, research and analysis, and public engagements. This initiative aims to create a professional environment where journalists and media practitioners can collaborate effectively.

The establishment of this Centre marks a crucial step for NFJM in promoting transparent, accountable, and ethical journalism in Jammu and beyond. As S.Harjeet Singh, the lead behind this initiative, underscores, the Centre aspires to be a catalyst for change within the local media landscape.

With the emergence of digital media and increasing misinformation, the need for a dedicated space promoting ethical journalism has never been more pertinent. Journalists will benefit from a well-equipped location fostering community engagement and media accountability.

Dr. Rufayee highlighted, “We aim to empower journalists with the tools, training, and support they need to uphold the highest standards of integrity in reporting.” This commitment resonates with NFJM’s broader vision of enhancing journalistic standards across India.

The Centre will also offer workshops and seminars aimed at enriching the skills of budding journalists. By providing access to resources and expert guidance, NFJM hopes to inspire a new generation to pursue careers in responsible journalism.

As Jammu continues to grow as a hub for media activity, the opening of the Press & Media Centre signals a promising future for journalism in the region. This facility not only supports seasoned journalists but also welcomes aspiring media talent to engage in meaningful conversations about the future of news reporting.

The NFJM’s investment in this Press & Media Centre reflects its dedication to fostering a robust media ecosystem that adheres to journalistic excellence.

For further information on the activities and services offered at the Press & Media Centre, interested individuals can contact NFJM directly or visit the Centre’s official website.

IGP Jammu Zone and DIG JKS Range Decorate Newly Promoted Officers/Officials

Jammu, September 24, 2025: A solemn Pipping Ceremony was organised today at the Zonal Police Headquarters (ZPHQ) Jammu, where Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, Shri Bhim Sen Tuti, IPS, along with Deputy Inspector General, JKS Range, Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, IPS, decorated the newly promoted officers/officials with their ranks.

2. The occasion marked an important milestone in the professional careers of the promoted personnel, whose service, commitment, and professionalism have been duly acknowledged. Congratulating the officers/officials, the IGP lauded their dedication and underscored that with promotion comes greater responsibility, particularly the need to uphold the highest standards of integrity, discipline, and accountability.

3. The promoted officers/officials expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed their resolve to serve the department and community with sincerity, diligence, and renewed zeal. The IGP extended best wishes for their future endeavours, highlighting the importance of leadership, teamwork, and professionalism in their enhanced roles.

4. Those who were decorated on the occasion include: Subash Chander, SI (M); Neelam Singh, SI (M); Ajay Kumar, SI (M); Banty Kumar, SI (M); Dilbag Singh, SI (M); Krishan Lal, ASI (M); Davinder Pal, ASI (M); Surinder Kumar, (ASI); Kulbushan Khajuria, HC (M); Sachin Sumbaria, HC (M); Parvinder Lal, HC (M); Rajinder Kumar, HC (M); and Anil Sharma, HC (M).

5. The ceremony was also attended by senior officers including DIG JSK Range; SO to IGP Jammu; CPO ZPHQ Jammu; PS to IGP Jammu; ADO, ZPHQ Jammu; DSP Estates Jammu and Sr. PO, ZPHQ Jammu. The ceremony concluded with a message of inspiration, reminding the promoted personnel to continue upholding the values and traditions of the Police Department, and to discharge their duties with renewed dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public service.

Four individuals died and 30 sustained injuries during violent protests in Leh, Ladakh, on Wednesday. Clashes erupted between security personnel and demonstrators advocating for statehood for Ladakh and the extension of the Sixth Schedule, generating significant unrest.

The protests, organized by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) youth wing, coincided with a shutdown in the town. Authorities confirmed that police fired shots to manage the escalating situation after the protesters began attacking local properties, including a BJP office and several vehicles.

The agitation intensified following a health crisis among hunger strikers advocating for statehood. Specifically, two individuals from a group of 15 on a prolonged hunger strike were hospitalized on Tuesday due to deteriorating health conditions, raising tensions further.

Witnesses and locals assert that the deaths resulted directly from police gunfire during the clashes. However, officials have yet to confirm these claims as investigations proceed.

The protests reflect a growing frustration among Ladakh’s residents over their political status since the region’s bifurcation from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019. Activists argue that the ‘Union Territory’ status has failed to ensure adequate representation, thus fueling demands for statehood and the protections afforded by the Sixth Schedule, aimed at safeguarding the rights and identities of indigenous communities.

The Leh Apex Body had called the protest to amplify these demands, especially after a notable hunger strike initiated on September 10 aimed at highlighting these issues. Community leaders assert that the government’s response to their demands has been insufficient, prompting widespread unrest.

Security experts emphasize the necessity for measured responses during civil unrest. Former police chief, Rajesh Verma, stated, “Police must prioritize de-escalation and community engagement to prevent further violence. Engaging with civil society and addressing grievances can significantly lessen hostility.”

The violence has intensified debates surrounding the governance structure of Ladakh, with the public demanding clarity on their political future. As the administration scrambles to restore order, officials reiterate their commitment to ensuring public safety. They urge community leaders to engage in dialogue for a peaceful resolution.

The situation remains tense as the government deploys additional forces to maintain order. Local leaders are calling for calm, advocating for peaceful negotiations to address the long-standing issues affecting Ladakh.

In a dramatic rescue operation, two labourers narrowly escaped death when a mound of earth caved in at a road construction site in the Beri-Pattan area near Sunderbani, Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday evening. This incident underscores the ongoing safety risks that construction workers face on the job.

The trapped labourers, engaged in excavating a roadside drain, faced an immediate threat as the earth collapsed on them. While their plight could have ended in tragedy, quick thinking and prompt action from fellow workers proved pivotal.

According to officials, the fellow labourers who witnessed the incident swiftly mobilized to dig through the debris. Their coordinated efforts paid off when they successfully pulled the trapped labourers out from under the earth, saving them from what could have been a fatal situation.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the safety hazards inherent in construction work. The labourers involved were reportedly working under strenuous conditions, which often expose them to significant risks. Construction sites are notoriously dangerous, and incidents of cave-ins illustrate the ongoing need for enhanced safety protocols and training.

Local authorities have taken notice of this incident and are urging employers to implement better safety measures. “It’s critical that construction companies prioritize the well-being of their workers by ensuring adequate safety practices are in place,” said a local government official.

The two rescued labourers suffered minor injuries and were later reported to be in stable condition. This fortunate outcome contrasts with many accidents in the construction sector, where the lack of safety equipment often leads to severe injuries or fatalities.

This news event highlights the vital ongoing discussions about worker safety in India, particularly in the construction industry. National campaigns aimed at improving safety regulations can benefit not only workers but also enhance the overall productivity and efficiency of the construction sector.

As authorities investigate the incident, many in the construction community remain hopeful that it will prompt necessary changes to safeguard labourers. In the words of a witness, “We are grateful for the quick actions of all involved; every worker deserves to return home safely after work.”

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the launch of Vande Bharat sleeper trains will occur once a second unit is fully operational. The new service targets a launch date potentially by October 15, 2025.

Currently, one train stands ready at the Shakur Basti Coaching Depot in Delhi, having successfully completed trials. Officials confirm its operational status is imminent.

During a media briefing, Vaishnaw highlighted the importance of synchronizing both trains for uninterrupted service. He stated, “Once we receive the second rake, we will decide on routes and commence operations.”

Speculation suggests that the inaugural route might connect New Delhi to Patna, especially as Bihar prepares for elections by year-end.

Joined by Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu, Vaishnaw provided updates on existing and proposed railway projects in Punjab. Among them, the 18-kilometre Rajpura-Mohali link aims to connect the area directly to Chandigarh.

This new line, part of the Ambala-Amritsar main line, will not only shorten travel by approximately 66 kilometres but also alleviate congestion on current routes.

Discussing further enhancements, the Railway Minister proposed a Vande Bharat train connecting New Delhi to Firozpur Cantonment. This train would serve critical stations including Faridkot, Bhatinda, and Patiala, covering the 486-kilometre distance in around 6 hours and 40 minutes.

Vaishnaw expressed, “I will request the Prime Minister to approve the Firozpur-Delhi Vande Bharat train,” emphasizing the train’s potential to improve connectivity.

During the briefing, the ministers announced nine railway projects commissioned since 2014, totaling investments in key lines such as the Nangal Dam-Daulat Pur Chowk line and the Jalandhar-Jammu Tawi line.

In addition, seven new projects are underway, including major lines like Nangal Dam-Talwara and Bhanupalli-Bilaspur-Beri, with significant investments earmarked for their completion.

Vaishnaw detailed that 30 stations will undergo redevelopment under the Amrit Bharat initiative, contributing to enhanced passenger amenities and experiences.

In closing, he pointed to operational efficiencies, noting that 29 rail divisions—including Malda and Mysore—achieved a 90% punctuality rate, demonstrating significant improvements in Indian rail services.