Trending Now

TRENDING NOW

SRINAGAR

JAMMU

ENTERTAINMENT

WORLD NEWS

News

Recent Post Recent Post
View More

Posted at 0


The world is experiencing transformative changes driven by cutting-edge technologies and schools must focus on using new tools to aid creativity, curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills: LG

Schools should have a single aim-create unique individuals for future challenges: LG Sinha

JAMMU, DECEMBER 10: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Wednesday called upon the schools and educational institutions to have a single aim: “Create unique individuals for future challenges”.

“The world is experiencing transformative changes driven by cutting-edge technologies and schools must focus on using new tools to aid creativity, curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He was speaking at the 40th Anniversary celebration of Lawrence Public School at Abhinav Theatre in Jammu.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor applauded the legacy, enduring values and efforts of Lawrence Public School to holistic learning and shaping modern leaders. He said the school carrying forward its core values has produced successful alumni, who are proudly serving the nation.

The Lieutenant Governor said the critical thinking and curiosity is the greatest strength of students. He urged the teachers and parents to allow students to study based on their interests, passions, and abilities to develop talent without pressure.



“Educational Institutions must pay special attention to four key aspects: Access, Equity, Quality, and Outcome. The dual goals for educators are to make students college-ready and future-ready and to familiarize them with continuously evolving skill sets, transforming them into 21st-century global citizens,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that the introduction of Artificial Intelligence will revolutionize the classroom, enabling teachers to use data analysis to understand student abilities and provide better mentoring.

He said, the hybrid classroom model, leveraging digital platforms, will ensure technology-driven education is accessible to all.

“The role of teachers will shift from being mere information providers to mentors. Their core responsibility will be to instil necessary skills, creativity, and give children dreams and determination. This also includes introducing them to their traditions, language, values, love, compassion, non-violence, and brotherhood,” he further said.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated women achievers for their significant contributions across various fields.

Shri Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services & Sports, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science & Technology, Information Technology, ARI & Trainings; Wg. Cdr MM Joshi (Retd.), Chairman, Lawrence Public School; Shri Manish Joshi, Managing Director; Ms Manya Joshi, Trustee; Ms Shivani Joshi, Principal of School, teachers, students and parents were present.

Ms. Devyani Rana, Member of Legislative Assembly, Nagrota; Ms. Priya Sethi, former Minister of State; Padma Shri Dr SP Varma, President, Gandhi Global Family, J&K; Lt Gen RK Sharma (Retd.), President, J&K Ex-Services League; heads of various institutions and senior officials also attended the celebrations.

Continue reading

Posted at 0

Photo Credits : CCTV

New Delhi, December 10, 2025: Deepavali, India's iconic Festival of Lights (also known as Diwali), has achieved a major global milestone by being officially inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition was announced during the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee, which is currently being hosted in New Delhi at the historic Red Fort.

The inscription of Deepavali makes it the 16th element from India to be featured on this prestigious global list, which aims to protect and promote 'living expressions' passed down through generations.

Why This UNESCO Recognition is Important

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) noted that the festival strengthens social bonds, promotes inclusivity, and embodies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The five-day festival is celebrated across India and globally by various communities, marking new beginnings and seeking prosperity. It is a time for cleaning and decorating homes with diyas (lamps), exchanging sweets, and performing rituals.

The move is expected to bring increased global awareness and support for the traditions and communities that keep this festival alive. Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat described the honour as a responsibility, stating, "We must ensure Deepavali remains a living heritage," and that it celebrates the "universal message... hope over despair."

Celebration and Context

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the addition, calling it a "thrilling" moment and stating that Deepavali is "the soul of our civilisation" and personifies illumination and righteousness. The announcement was met with cheers from delegates at the Red Fort meeting.

The nomination dossier for Deepavali was submitted for the 2024-25 cycle, prepared through extensive consultation with artisans, practitioners, and cultural groups across the country. The inscription on the Intangible Heritage list is a testament to the festival's deep-rooted cultural significance—from the legend of Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi.

This latest inclusion joins other Indian traditions on the list, such as the Garba dance of Gujarat (2023), Durga Puja in Kolkata (2021), and the Kumbh Mela (2017).

The hosting of the 20th session of the UNESCO committee in India for the first time underlines the nation’s growing commitment to safeguarding its cultural inheritance. The recognition is anticipated to boost local economies associated with the festival, such as potters and traditional sweet-makers. Future efforts will focus on documenting the diverse regional practices of Deepavali to ensure the tradition is transmitted to the next generation sustainably.


Continue reading

Posted at 0


The second-generation Kia Seltos, a highly popular mid-size SUV in India, has been officially revealed. The new model gets a major refresh, bringing a bolder look, a heavily updated interior, and a host of advanced technology and safety features.

The details of the variants and specifications were announced on December 10, 2025, with Kia aiming to strengthen its position in the fiercely competitive SUV market in the country. Bookings for the new Seltos are set to begin soon, with the full price list expected to be announced on January 2, 2026, ahead of deliveries.

Updated Design and Tech-Loaded Cabin

The new Seltos is noticeably larger than the previous model, which contributes to a more imposing look and potentially better cabin space. The exterior features a redesigned 'Digital Tiger Face' grille, striking new Ice Cube LED headlamps, and connected LED tail lamps, giving it a modern, aggressive appearance.

Inside, the biggest change is the adoption of a panoramic ‘Trinity Display,’ which includes twin 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment system and digital driver's display, creating a seamless, high-tech look. Key new features in the top variants include a dual-pane Panoramic Sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and flush-fitting door handles with proximity unlock.

Engine Options Remain Consistent

The new Seltos retains the familiar engine line-up, which has proven popular with Indian buyers. It will continue to offer:

Safety Gets a Major Upgrade

A significant update is the introduction of a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite in the higher variants. This feature includes functions like Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, and Lane Keep Assist, significantly boosting safety. Six airbags will be offered as standard across all variants, alongside other safety features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and a 360-degree camera system.

The new model will be available in multiple variants, including HTE, HTK, HTX (Tech Line), and the sporty GTX and X-Line trims (GT Line), each offering a different mix of features.

Expected Impact and Next Steps

The enhanced features, particularly the panoramic sunroof and Level 2 ADAS, are expected to make the 2026 Seltos a strong contender against rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra, which are also receiving updates. The move is seen as Kia's response to the rising demand for premium, feature-rich SUVs.

Industry observers note that while the feature additions are welcome, the final pricing, which will be announced on January 2, 2026, will be key to its market success. The company is betting on the refreshed styling and technology to once again set a new benchmark in the segment.

Continue reading

Posted at 0


SAMBA, DECEMBER 10: A meeting of the District level Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) was held today at the Meeting Hall of the District Administrative Complex. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner, Ayushi Sudan.

The meeting commenced with a welcome address by SPCA Member Secretary, Dr. Rahul Dev who briefed the meeting on the functioning and ongoing animal welfare initiatives. A detailed presentation was made regarding the latest directions issued by the Supreme Court of India vide Order dated 07.11.2025.

The directions highlighted, inter alia, the nomination of Departmental Nodal Officers for monitoring Government infrastructure with respect to adequate fencing, boundary walls, gates and other necessary structural or administrative measures, along with submission of updated inventories. The meeting also deliberated upon specific instructions for Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils, Municipal Committees, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Health Department, Youth & Sports Services Department, Education Department and other allied departments concerning the management and regulation of the stray animal population.

The Deputy Commissioner issued on-the-spot directions to all concerned departments to ensure strict compliance with the Supreme Court directives and instructed for submission of fortnightly compliance reports for onward transmission to the higher authorities.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Forest Department, Police Department, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Wildlife Department, Municipal Council and Municipal Committees, among others.

Continue reading

Posted at 0


JAMMU, DECEMBER 10: The Director Horticulture Jammu, Gul Sayed today flagged off the Exposure Visit of Farmers and Orchardists to Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana.

The visit of farmers has been organised under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) for the year 2025-26. The programme was held in the presence of Chief Horticulture Officer Jammu, R.K. Kotwal, DLSMS, Rakesh Kumar Bhagat and HDO Bhalwal, Ravinder Kumar.

The exposure visit aims to enhance the technical knowledge of farmers and orchardists by providing firsthand experience of advanced horticultural practices and technologies being adopted outside the Union Territory.

Continue reading

Posted at 0


DODA, DECEMBER 10:   Deputy Commissioner (DC), Harvinder Singh today formally inaugurated the Alpha Cup 2025 – 1st Edition, a T-20 Leather Ball Cricket Tournament organized by the District Administration Doda. The much-awaited sporting event commenced here at Sports Stadium amidst enthusiastic participation from players and spectators.

Additional Deputy Commissioner, Anil Kumar Thakur, ACD, EO MC, Maj Dinesh Kumar Badsara of 10 RR Arnora and  other officers were present on the occasion, along with a large number of sports enthusiasts and local citizens who gathered to witness the opening ceremony.

The Deputy Commissioner lauded the initiative aimed at promoting sports culture and encouraging youth participation in constructive activities. He interacted with the participating teams, inspected the sports arrangements and conveyed his best wishes to all players for a competitive and disciplined tournament ahead.

Continue reading

Posted at 0

NEWS

Hindustan Shiv Sena today honored Dr. Azhar Malik, HOD of the Dental College Jammu, recognizing his excellent services. Local doctors have been urged by Vikrant Kapoor to draw inspiration from Dr. Azhar Malik's work.

On December 10, a delegation of party leaders led by Hindustan Shiv Sena State President Vikrant Kapoor visited the Indira Gandhi Government Dental College and Hospital Jammu. They met with Dr. Azhar Malik, HOD and Professor of the PG Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, to acknowledge his outstanding contributions. Dr. Malik was presented with a certificate of appreciation from the party.

During their visit, the Hindustan Shiv Sena team toured various units under Dr. Malik's supervision, finding them in excellent condition. Patients from Poonch, Rajouri, and other remote areas expressed high satisfaction with the treatment received. The team observed that special care is taken to ensure patients leave the hospital satisfied. Dr. Azhar Malik also maintains a strong rapport with the community, and patients appreciate his working style.

State President of Hindustan Shiv Sena, Vikrant Kapoor, praised Dr. Malik, stating, "Seeing the way HOD Azhar Malik is maintaining a good rapport with the people and satisfies the patients coming there with his sweet behavior, local doctors should also take inspiration from him and follow in his footsteps."

Accompanying Kapoor on the visit were State Senior Vice President of Hindustan Shiv Sena and Jammu and Kashmir in-charge Ramesh Gupta, Parveen Gupta, senior leader Sunil Debgotra, Rakesh, Baba Ram Kaith, Abhishek, Himanshu, Amit, and Women Wing leader Jyoti Devi, among others.


Continue reading

Posted at 0


Construction of completely damaged 344 homes in Kathua and 105 homes in Samba will be financed by HRDS-India

Unity is Strength. Collective action can surmount challenges which appear unconquerable and we have witnessed this spirit during the crisis in August: LG

Welfare of people of J&K is our top priority. We are committed to serve them and fulfil all their aspirations: LG Sinha

This project for construction of new homes for affected families manifests our commitment to people and inclusive development of J&K: LG

Better infrastructure, education, health, employment, equal opportunities and social justice have always been my priorities: LG Sinha

Under the guidance of Hon'ble PM Shri Narendra Modi, we have scripted a new history with all-round and inclusive development: LG

·        Lieutenant Governor dedicates Indoor Sports Stadium to the youth of Kathua

JAMMU, DECEMBER 9: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Tuesday visited Kathua and Samba and laid the foundation stone for the construction of 449 new homes for families affected due to recent natural calamities in the districts.

A total of 344 houses that were completely devastated in Kathua will be constructed at a cost of Rs. 34 crore. In Samba, 105 houses damaged during the recent flash floods will be rebuilt at a cost of Rs. 10.50 crore.



The construction costs for these 3-bedroom houses will be financed by an NGO, High-range Rural Development Society (HRDS India), which will also ensure modern amenities and facilities for home owners.

Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor commended HRDS India for its noble endeavour and its support to the UT administration in ensuring dignified and secure housing for the affected families in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Unity is strength. Collective action can surmount challenges which appear unconquerable and we have witnessed this spirit during the crisis in August this year. Welfare of people of J&K is our top priority. We are committed to serve them and fulfil all their aspirations,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He said the project for construction of new homes for affected families being completed with the help of HRDS-India, manifests our commitment to people and inclusive development of J&K.  He also directed the district administration for inclusion of all the genuine beneficiaries, if anyone is left out.

The first phase of the initiative involves construction of 1,500 state-of-the-art, three-bedroom pre-fabricated “Smart Houses.” Designed for modern living and efficiency, these technologically advanced homes offer superior resilience against future climate challenges and include facilities such as boundary walls and cowsheds. The construction of these houses is slated for completion within six months from the commencement of foundation work.

HRDS India will provide free life insurance coverage for the next 15 years and free annual health check-ups for all family members. The NGO will also cover the maintenance of the houses for the next five years.

The Lieutenant Governor spoke on the rapid transformation taking place across the two districts of Kathua, Samba and various sectors in the UT of J&K following massive push post 2019. He stated that sincere efforts have been made to improve the quality of life of every citizen in Kathua and Samba.

He called upon the citizens and all stakeholders to discharge their responsibility in ensuring that the pace of development does not slow down and benefits of development reach the last person in the queue.

“Better infrastructure, education, health, employment, equal opportunities and social justice have always been my priorities. Under the guidance of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, we have scripted a new history with all-round and inclusive development,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor also expressed gratitude to the district administration, police, army, CAPFs, Disaster Response forces, emergency responders, civil society members, and everyone involved in the relief and rescue operations.

An assistance amounting to Rs. 8.22 crore and Rs.1.38 Crore  was respectively disbursed to the affected families in Kathua and Samba.

During his visit to Kathua, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated and dedicated Indoor Sports Stadium to the youth.

The District Administration Kathua has partnered with corporate entities to elevate sports infrastructure and youth engagement through the construction of a state-of-the-art Indoor Sports Stadium, complemented by outdoor basketball and volleyball courts.

 Swami Atma Nambi, President, HRDS India; Col. Mahan Singh (Retd.) Chairman, DDC Kathua; Shri Keshav Dutt Sharma, Chairman, DDC, Samba ; Members of Legislative Assembly; Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range; Ms Ayushi Sudan, Deputy Commissioner Samba; Shri Rajesh Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Kathua, members of HRDS India, senior officials of police and civil administration, prominent citizens and people from all walks of life attended the foundation stone laying ceremony.  

Continue reading

Posted at 0


JAMMU, DECEMBER 09: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a meeting to comprehensively review the augmentation of undergraduate and postgraduate seats across Government Medical Colleges (GMCs), Dental Colleges, Ayurvedic and Unani Colleges by the Health & Medical Education (H&ME) Department in J&K.

The meeting was attended by Secretary, Health & Medical Education Department; Director, SKIMS; Principals of Government Medical Colleges; Director, Coordination; and other senior officers of the department.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary took a detailed appraisal of the MD/MS, DM/MCh, DNB and MDS seats that were augmented during the previous academic year and reviewed the roadmap prepared by the medical colleges for further expansion in the coming session. Emphasising the need to strengthen super-speciality Heath care in the UT, he directed the two Super Speciality Hospitals and SKIMS Medical College to ensure allocation of DM and MCh seats from the next academic session.

The Chief Secretary also reviewed the status of additional MBBS seats sanctioned for various medical colleges and urged the remaining institutions to apply for an additional 50 MBBS seats as soon as the application portal is opened by the National Medical Commission (NMC). He informed the meeting that a college-wise assessment would be undertaken immediately after the portal is opened to closely monitor progress and ensure timely submissions.

Further, the Chief Secretary directed the Principals of Government Dental Colleges at Jammu and Srinagar to take all necessary measures to introduce new MDS courses and increase intake capacity. He also called upon the Ayurvedic and Unani Colleges to actively pursue enhancement of seats in their respective institutions.

Secretary, Health & Medical Education Department, Dr Syed Abid Rashid Shah, informed the meeting that each medical institution has designated a Nodal Officer for augmentation of UG and PG seats to ensure strict compliance with NMC norms and timely completion of statutory requirements.

He revealed that during the previous academic session, medical colleges across J&K were augmented with 128 MD/MS seats, 46 DNB seats and 2 DM/MCh seats, while for the forthcoming 2026–27 session, the institutions are proposing to add 284 MD/MS seats, 35 DNB seats and 36 DM/MCh seats.

Regarding MBBS admissions, the Secretary stated that 50 additional seats each were sanctioned for GMCs at Anantnag, Baramulla, Rajouri and Doda, while 20 seats each were added to GMC Srinagar and GMC Jammu. He further informed that GMCs at Udhampur, Rajouri, Handwara and SKIMS Bemina are planning to apply for an additional 50 MBBS seats in the upcoming session.

Director, SKIMS, Dr Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, apprised the meeting of the Institute’s preparedness to apply for a substantial increase in seats during the forthcoming NMC application window. He stated that SKIMS is set to apply for around 130 postgraduate seats and 50 undergraduate seats in the next academic session, expressing confidence in meeting all regulatory requirements for securing the approvals.

The Principals of the respective medical institutions also shared their institution-specific plans for augmentation of UG and PG seats and assured that applications would be submitted promptly as soon as the NMC opens the portal in the weeks to come.

Continue reading
Subscribe to: Comments (Atom)