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Dr. Sudesh Gupta Wins Best Research Paper Award at International Ayurveda Conference

Jammu, June 26: Dr. Sudesh Gupta, Associate Professor in the Department of Shalya Tantra at Government Ayurvedic Medical College, Akhnoor, has been conferred with the Best Research Paper Award at the International Conference and Workshop “MRN JNANA SANKEERNA–2K26: From Classical Roots to Clinical Excellence – A Global Academy Conclave on Agnikarma, Vidhakarma, Infertility Care, Bhagna Chikitsa, Marma Therapy and Panchakarma.”

The conference was organized by MRN Ayurvedic Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka, in association with the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) and Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), Bengaluru.

As part of the scientific programme, online research paper presentation sessions were conducted on June 18, 19 and 20, 2026, ahead of the main conference. More than 350 research papers were presented by faculty members, clinicians and research scholars from reputed institutions across India and abroad.

Dr. Gupta’s research paper was adjudged the Best Research Paper by the expert evaluation committee in recognition of its scientific excellence, originality and clinical relevance. The research also received appreciation from the chairpersons of the scientific sessions.

Notably, this is the second Best Research Paper Award received by Dr. Sudesh Gupta during the current year, reflecting his continued commitment to research, innovation and evidence-based advancement in Ayurveda, particularly in the field of Shalya Tantra.

The achievement has brought laurels to Government Ayurvedic Medical College, Akhnoor, and has enhanced the academic reputation of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir at an international platform. The accomplishment is expected to inspire students, researchers and healthcare professionals engaged in the field of Indian systems of medicine to pursue high-quality research and academic excellence.

J&K Leaders Pay Tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) on Youm-e-Ashura

 Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and several prominent political and religious leaders on Friday paid rich tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala on the occasion of Youm-e-Ashura, the tenth day of the Islamic month of Muharram.

In his message, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at Karbala continues to serve as a timeless symbol of truth, justice, courage, and human dignity. He urged people to imbibe these universal values and work collectively towards building a peaceful, progressive, and equitable society.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also paid homage to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his followers, describing the tragedy of Karbala as an eternal symbol of courage, steadfastness, and resistance against tyranny. He said the message of Karbala transcends time and geography, inspiring humanity to uphold truth, moral values, and righteousness in the face of adversity.

National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah said the unparalleled sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS), his family members, and loyal companions continues to illuminate the path of truth, justice, faith, and perseverance. He stated that Imam Hussain’s legacy belongs to the entire humanity and serves as an enduring lesson against oppression and injustice. He prayed for peace, prosperity, communal harmony, and divine blessings for the people of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and the entire nation.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti described the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) as the highest embodiment of truth, justice, and unwavering resistance against oppression. She said the message of Karbala remains relevant across the world wherever people continue to struggle against injustice. Mehbooba also appealed to the administration to facilitate peaceful and traditional Muharram processions while respecting the religious sentiments of the people.

Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone said the battle of Karbala remains an eternal testament to the triumph of truth over oppression and justice over tyranny. He observed that Imam Hussain’s sacrifice transcends all boundaries of time, geography, and community.

Kashmir’s chief preacher Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also paid tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala, saying their sacrifice continues to inspire generations with lessons of truth, patience, faith, and moral courage. He remarked that while power may fade with time, faith, sacrifice, and principles remain eternal.

Political and religious leaders unanimously observed that the legacy of Karbala continues to inspire humanity to stand firmly for justice, righteousness, and moral values in every age.

Powerful Earthquakes Kill 164 in Venezuela; Rescue Operations Intensify Amid Widespread Destruction

 Rescue teams continued intensive search and rescue operations across Venezuela on Thursday after two powerful earthquakes struck the country, killing at least 164 people, injuring nearly 1,000, and trapping many beneath collapsed buildings.

The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale, struck within a minute of each other on Wednesday evening, making them among the strongest earthquakes to hit Venezuela in more than a century.

According to Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, rescue teams from across the country have been deployed to the worst-hit coastal state of La Guaira, which has been declared a disaster zone due to extensive structural damage and multiple building collapses.

Television footage showed emergency responders using heavy equipment and power tools to search through debris, while three children were successfully rescued alive from the rubble in La Guaira.

The earthquakes caused widespread panic in the capital Caracas, where residents rushed out of swaying buildings and spent the night in parks, parking lots, and other open spaces due to fears of aftershocks. Authorities have urged people not to return to buildings showing signs of structural damage.

The country’s main gateway, Simón Bolívar International Airport, suffered damage and has been temporarily closed. Power outages, disruptions to mobile communication, suspension of metro services, and shutdown of natural gas supplies were also reported in several parts of Caracas.

The Ministry of Education announced that schools will remain closed for several days, with several educational institutions being converted into temporary shelters and relief distribution centres.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the first earthquake, measuring 7.2 magnitude, struck near Morón on Venezuela’s Caribbean coast at a depth of 22 kilometres. A second, stronger 7.5-magnitude quake followed just one minute later at a depth of 10 kilometres, further intensifying the devastation.

Authorities have appealed to private companies to provide heavy construction equipment for rescue operations, while United Nations-certified search and rescue teams are expected to join relief efforts.

Rescue operations remain underway as officials fear the death toll could rise with many people still believed to be trapped beneath collapsed structures.

LG Manoj Sinha Reviews Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra Preparations, Directs Comprehensive Security and Disaster Management Plan

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday chaired a high-level review meeting at Pahalgam and directed officials to ensure seamless arrangements, foolproof security, and a comprehensive disaster management plan for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026, which is scheduled to commence on July 3.

The meeting was attended by senior officers from the civil administration, police, security agencies, and the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board to assess preparedness for the annual pilgrimage.

Emphasizing the importance of meticulous planning, the Lieutenant Governor said the Yatra requires a comprehensive hybrid approach with zero tolerance for operational lapses. He instructed all departments to proactively address challenges associated with high-altitude conditions, unpredictable weather, and heavy pilgrim movement.

To strengthen pilgrim safety, Sinha directed officials to establish weather-based evacuation protocols and strategically deploy Mountain Response Teams (MRTs) along vulnerable stretches of the route. He also instructed that all transit tents undergo rigorous quality inspections and be equipped with functional fire extinguishers.

The Lieutenant Governor stressed the need for real-time crowd monitoring to identify and eliminate bottlenecks on the trekking routes. He further called for effective traffic management plans, designated parking areas, and uninterrupted transportation of essential supplies throughout the Yatra period.

Reviewing infrastructure and civic facilities, Sinha directed all concerned departments to work in close coordination for the timely completion of ongoing projects. He asked the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to complete all assigned works before the commencement of the pilgrimage.

The review covered key aspects, including logistics, accommodation, healthcare services, sanitation, drinking water, electricity supply, road connectivity, RFID registration, joint control rooms, track widening, footbridge construction, langar facilities, holding areas, traffic regulation, and security arrangements.

The Lieutenant Governor also emphasized continuous field inspections, directing officials to ensure that transit camps and halt points are adequately staffed and provided with reliable water and power supply to facilitate a comfortable experience for pilgrims and service providers.

Addressing reporters after the meeting, Sinha said the Administration, Police, Security Forces, Government of India, and the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board have finalized all preparations to ensure a safe, secure, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage.

He added that local residents and stakeholders are fully prepared to welcome devotees arriving from across the country.

Earlier in the day, the Lieutenant Governor visited the Nunwan Base Camp, where he conducted an on-ground inspection of accommodation facilities and other infrastructure. He directed officers to expedite pending works while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and pilgrim convenience.

During the review, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat briefed the meeting on administrative arrangements, while Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anantnag Amod Nagpure Ashok presented the multi-layered security framework designed to safeguard pilgrims throughout the Yatra route.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor and CEO of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Commissioner Secretary, Youth Services & Sports Department and Nodal Officer for the Pahalgam Axis, Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, V.K. Birdi, Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, along with other senior officers.

National Hospital Jammu Inaugurates State-of-the-Art ICU Facility

Jammu, June 25: National Hospital, Airport Road, Karan Bagh, Jammu, today achieved another milestone in healthcare with the grand inauguration of its advanced ICU Facility by Sh. Mohan Lal Ji, Hon’ble MLA, Akhnoor.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by hospital management, senior consultants, specialist doctors, healthcare professionals, and prominent citizens. Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries appreciated the hospital’s efforts in strengthening critical care infrastructure and enhancing healthcare services for the people of Jammu and adjoining areas.

The newly inaugurated Modular ICU is equipped with the latest technology and advanced life-support systems, enabling the hospital to provide high-quality critical care services. National Hospital has established itself as a trusted healthcare institution with a dedicated team of experienced doctors, specialists, and trained medical staff.

A major highlight of the hospital is the 21-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), one of the first such advanced facilities in Jammu dedicated to the care of newborn babies. The hospital also offers comprehensive Rs.13000/- maternity and newborn care services.

The management announced several patient-friendly initiatives, including free ambulance services for girl child deliveries, special healthcare support for ECHS card holders with free pick-up and drop facilities, and dialysis services under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, ensuring affordable and accessible treatment for eligible beneficiaries.

Addressing the gathering, the hospital management reiterated its commitment to providing world-class healthcare facilities, modern medical technology, and compassionate patient care under one roof.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks to the Hon’ble MLA, distinguished guests, medical fraternity, and all those who contributed to making the healthcare initiative a reality.

National Hospital continues to strengthen its mission of delivering advanced, affordable, and accessible healthcare services to the people of Jammu and the surrounding region.

National Hospital Jammu Inaugurates State-of-the-Art ICU Facility

Jammu, June 25: National Hospital, Airport Road, Karan Bagh, Jammu, today achieved another milestone in healthcare with the grand inauguration of its advanced ICU Facility by Sh. Mohan Lal Ji, Hon’ble MLA, Akhnoor.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by hospital management, senior consultants, specialist doctors, healthcare professionals, and prominent citizens. Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries appreciated the hospital’s efforts in strengthening critical care infrastructure and enhancing healthcare services for the people of Jammu and adjoining areas.

The newly inaugurated Modular ICU is equipped with the latest technology and advanced life-support systems, enabling the hospital to provide high-quality critical care services. National Hospital has established itself as a trusted healthcare institution with a dedicated team of experienced doctors, specialists, and trained medical staff.

A major highlight of the hospital is the 21-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), one of the first such advanced facilities in Jammu dedicated to the care of newborn babies. The hospital also offers comprehensive Rs.13000/- maternity and newborn care services.

The management announced several patient-friendly initiatives, including free ambulance services for girl child deliveries, special healthcare support for ECHS card holders with free pick-up and drop facilities, and dialysis services under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, ensuring affordable and accessible treatment for eligible beneficiaries.

Addressing the gathering, the hospital management reiterated its commitment to providing world-class healthcare facilities, modern medical technology, and compassionate patient care under one roof.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks to the Hon’ble MLA, distinguished guests, medical fraternity, and all those who contributed to making the healthcare initiative a reality.

National Hospital continues to strengthen its mission of delivering advanced, affordable, and accessible healthcare services to the people of Jammu and the surrounding region.

India Seek Middle-Order Revival Against Bangladesh in Crucial Women’s T20 World Cup Clash

 India will look to overcome their middle-order batting struggles and fielding lapses when they face Bangladesh in a crucial Group A encounter of the Women’s T20 World Cup on Thursday.

While India’s top-order concerns have largely eased thanks to impressive performances from openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, the team’s middle order has emerged as a major area of concern heading into the business end of the tournament.

Mandhana has been in excellent form, scoring 159 runs in three matches, while Shafali has contributed 92 runs. Both batters have maintained strike rates above 154, consistently providing India with strong starts.

However, the middle order has failed to capitalize on those solid foundations. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Yastika Bhatia have struggled to maintain the momentum created by the openers, putting additional pressure on finishers Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma.

The statistics reflect India’s concerns. Harmanpreet and Jemimah have managed only 11 boundaries between them in three matches and are yet to hit a six in the tournament. Yastika has struck just three fours in two innings, highlighting the lack of aggression in the middle overs.

Apart from batting issues, India’s fielding standards have also come under scrutiny, with missed opportunities proving costly in key moments.

With a place in the knockout stage at stake, India will be aiming for a complete performance against Bangladesh and hope their middle order finds form at the right time.

Punjab Police Bust Cross-Border Arms and Drug Smuggling Network; Seven Arrested

In a major crackdown on organized crime, the Punjab Police have dismantled a cross-border illegal arms and narcotics network with the arrest of seven individuals, including an Afghan national, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said on Thursday.

Acting in a joint operation with a central agency, the Amritsar Commissionerate Police recovered over 5 kilograms of heroin, 10 sophisticated weapons, including two sub-machine guns, and ₹30.38 lakh in cash from the accused.

According to the DGP, preliminary investigations have revealed that the arrested individuals were allegedly linked to foreign-based handlers who coordinated operations through social media platforms. The accused were responsible for receiving consignments of narcotics and illegal weapons and distributing them to criminal elements in different areas.

Investigators have also found that the network used hawala channels to facilitate financial transactions across multiple locations.

An FIR has been registered at the Islamabad Police Station, Amritsar, and further investigations are underway to identify additional associates, establish backward and forward linkages, and uncover the full extent of the international smuggling network.

Punjab Police officials stated that more arrests and recoveries are expected as the probe progresses.

Owaisi Says India-China Relations Cannot Be Normalised on Beijing’s Terms Alone

 AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday asserted that while every Indian citizen desires peaceful and normal relations with China, such engagement cannot come at the cost of India’s national interests.

In a series of posts on social media platform X, Owaisi said India’s interests must remain paramount and should not be compromised in pursuit of normalcy in bilateral relations with Beijing.

“Every Indian citizen wants normal and peaceful ties with China, but it cannot be solely on Chinese terms. Indian interests have to be paramount and cannot be discarded in pursuit of normalcy with China. This has been our consistent policy and changing it now will be a disaster,” Owaisi wrote.

The AIMIM chief alleged that China wants India to set aside the border dispute in an effort to improve bilateral ties while offering little in return.

According to Owaisi, Beijing continues to provide close operational military support to Pakistan and has also refused to share hydrological data related to the Brahmaputra River with India.

He questioned the Centre’s approach towards China, claiming that New Delhi was making concessions without receiving reciprocal commitments from Beijing.

“We are the one making concessions, including considering early harvest on the border issue. Why? There has been no explanation from the Narendra Modi government,” Owaisi said in another post.

His remarks come amid ongoing discussions on the future trajectory of India-China relations and efforts by both countries to stabilise ties following years of tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

India and China have witnessed strained relations since the 2020 border standoff in eastern Ladakh, though diplomatic and military-level engagements have continued to address outstanding issues and maintain peace along the border.

10 drug peddlers arrested across Jammu amid ongoing crackdown

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Ten alleged drug peddlers, including a resident of Punjab, were arrested along with a large quantity of heroin at separate places in Jammu, Udhampur, Kathua and Doda districts of Jammu and Kashmir, police said on Wednesday.

Gagandeep Singh of Amritsar and his two associates from Jammu Damanjot Singh and Vivek Kumar were arrested following the busting of a Punjab-based drug network by Gandhi Nagar police here, a spokesperson said.

He said 780 grams of heroin were allegedly recovered from the three hardcore drug peddlers who were booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

The police arrested two alleged drug peddlers Sahil Singh and Kuldeep Kumar and recovered 17 grams of heroin from their possession at Miran Sahib area, while another drug peddler Mohd Sharief was apprehended with 13 grams of heroin from Bishnah area in the outskirts of Jammu, the spokesman said.

He said Parvaiz Ahmad and Shakeel Ahmad, both residents of Srinagar, were arrested following the recovery of 19.47 grams and 18.61 grams of heroin during frisking at Phalata and Tikri on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in the Udhampur district.

In another successful operation in the Kathua district, the spokesman said an absconding drug peddler, Farman Ali, was arrested from Marheen area and seven grams of heroin were recovered from him.

Ali is the fourth drug peddler arrested by the police after the busting of a Punjab-based network run by his brother Gulzar Ahmad, leading to the total recovery of 369 grams of heroin and Rs one lakh cash, which were found hidden in the premises of a school, on the disclosure of Ahmad recently.

Nimpal Kumar was also arrested after 85 grams of heroin was seized from him during frisking at Chinar Morh in Doda district, the spokesman said.