A living depiction of victory over terrorism

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May 2, 2026

Prof Ajeet Kumar Sharma, Sunil Sharma
ravinder.jugran1@gmail.com
Author – Ravinder Jugran
Name of Book: Jammu Kashmir Aatank Par Vijay Ki Shaurya Gatha
Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan

This is an inspiring and living historical narrative of courage, depicting the valor, struggle, and sacrifices of the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their fight against terrorism. It is a glorious saga of how society struck back at terrorism and ultimately achieved victory over it.In this book, you will learn how the personal bravery of individuals filled with patriotism, combined with the collective organized strength of society — even while remaining unarmed — can confront heavily armed modern terrorists and completely thwart their designs to disintegrate the country.
Right at the beginning of the book, the article “From Kashyap Marg to Kashmir Valley” outlines the historical events of Jammu and Kashmir and describes its changing present scenario. Along with this, it vividly portrays the horrific face of terrorism. After providing valuable information for researchers, the book then begins the real saga — the stories of brave local residents who, in the face of terrorist bullets, courageously stepped forward with their chests exposed and fought back.
When in 1990 the Kashmir Valley was devastated by terrorist atrocities and more than three lakh Hindus were forced to flee, the separatist forces celebrated their “success” and started dreaming of spreading their reign of terror. Armed with modern weapons like AK-47, AK-56 rifles, and rocket launchers, they planned to shake the Pir Panjal, Chenab Valley, and Krishna Valley, and displace their inhabitants as well. They were fully confident that within a few months they would bring the entire mountainous region under their terrorist control.But the brave patriots of the Chenab Valley — the courageous residents of its towns and villages — stopped the advancing footsteps of terrorism. Society continued to suffer from terrorist atrocities and became victims of terrorist bullets, yet the courage and resolve to fight terrorism remained unshaken. As a result, society did not get displaced — it stood firm, and terrorism began to suffer defeat.
In this book, you will be introduced to those inspiring stories of courage, determination, bravery, and sacrifice. You will read how a patriot, knowing fully well that he would become a victim of a terrorist attack, fearlessly declared: “Until a Hindu leader is martyred, society will not awaken.” The very next day, that brave man was shot dead by terrorists and became a martyr — but he awakened the entire society against terrorism.You will read how a school teacher single-handedly twisted the necks of two terrorists and saved the lives of thirty-five bus passengers, before laying down his own life as an immortal sacrifice.
You will learn how groups of young men joined hands with the army in anti-terror operations, dug the graves of terrorism, and themselves embraced death.Your heart will swell with pride when you read how a young girl, who used to cut grass and milk cows, showed extraordinary courage and with a single blow of an axe, chopped off the head of a terrorist Area Commander.Not only this, you will read stories of Kashmiri youth who joined the army, destroyed terrorist hideouts, dreamed of transforming their Kashmir, and attained martyrdom. Some were awarded the Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra. Many brave fighters cheated death repeatedly and rose again to fight.In the end, the courage and fighting spirit of society exhausted terrorism. Fear of terrorists gradually diminished. The land and faith of the local people were protected. This living history of extraordinary bravery is still scattered across the soil, courtyards, lanes, and streets of Jammu and Kashmir.
This book, with eighty such inspiring narratives, is dedicated to the people of India and the world so that the entire nation and the global community may know about this societal victory of Jammu and Kashmir over terrorism. It pays humble tribute to those valiant fighters. The book presents a vivid and living portrait of courage before your eyes, which will make every pore of your body thrill with pride, righteous anger, and deep compassion.
Therefore, this is not just an ordinary book — it is a living depiction of victory over terrorism. Hence, let us all read this book and encourage others to read it too, so that society continues to rise, awaken, and draw continuous inspiration filled with the spirit of patriotism.

Ladakhi leaders’ meeting with HM yields no breakthrough

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Daily Excelsior

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May 2, 2026

Tsewang Rigzin

Leh, May 1: A delegation of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), comprising MP Ladakh Hanifa Jan, CEC Kargil Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, former MP and LAB chairman Thupstan Chhewang, LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakrook, and LAB member & climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Leh last evening.
The delegation raised key demands concerning Ladakh and urged the Home Minister to convene the High-Power Committee (HPC) meeting in Leh itself under his chairmanship. However, the request was not accepted. According to Chering Dorjay Lakrook, the delegation had gone into the meeting with high expectations but found the outcome “not very productive.”
The Home Minister informed the delegation that discussions would first take place in the sub-committee meeting scheduled for May 22, and that the HPC meeting would follow due procedure thereafter.
Dorjay also informed that Joint Secretary, Home Affairs, in charge of Ladakh and J&K, Lokande, has been meeting various leaders in Leh individually. “I was also called for a meeting, but I did not go as we had decided not to engage individually,” he said.
Sonam Wangchuk said the Home Minister informed the delegation that his visit this time was purely spiritual. He added that while the delegation appreciated being invited for the meeting, they were disappointed over the lack of concrete progress. He, however, expressed hope that discussions would move forward in a positive way after the May 22 sub-committee meeting.
Wangchuk further said the delegation raised concerns about “healing the wounds of Ladakhis,” withdrawal of cases, and those injured during the protests. He said the Home Minister indicated that these issues could be addressed after the May 22 meeting. He hoped these will not be made conditions for the talks. “We are disappointed, but we hope things will improve,” he concluded.

Bangladesh’s foreign ministry summons India’s acting envoy

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Daily Excelsior

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May 2, 2026

DHAKA, May 1: Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry has summoned India’s acting High Commissioner Pawan Badhe and lodged a formal protest over certain comments made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, according to a media report.

Director General (South Asia) Ishrat Jahan conveyed Bangladesh’s position to the Indian diplomat on Thursday, an official was quoted as saying by the UNB news service.

In a social media post, Sarma last week said 20 foreign nationals were apprehended in Assam and pushed back to Bangladesh.

“Rude people don’t understand soft language. We continuously remind ourselves of this prophetic line when we expel infiltrators from Assam who don’t leave themselves. For instance, these 20 illegal Bangladeshis who were PUSHED BACK last night,” Sarma said.

Ishrat told the Indian diplomat that such comments undermine the spirit of friendly relations between the two countries.

The official described the remarks as “disparaging” to Bangladesh-India relations and expressed Dhaka’s displeasure.

Ishrat highlighted the importance of exercising restraint when addressing sensitive bilateral issues.

The relations between India and Bangladesh witnessed a major downturn after the interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus came to power following the collapse of the Hasina government in 2024.

India and Bangladesh are making efforts to rebuild bilateral ties after Tarique Rahman became prime minister following his Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s victory in the February parliamentary polls. (PTI)

Bihar CM offers prayers at Mahabodhi temple, greets people on Buddha Purnima

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Daily Excelsior

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May 2, 2026

PATNA, May 1: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary visited the Mahabodhi temple in Gaya Ji district on Friday and greeted people on the occasion of Buddha Purnima.

The temple in Bodh Gaya town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most sacred pilgrimage destination in Buddhism. The Mahabodhi temple is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha, and particularly to the attainment of Enlightenment.

In a post on his X handle, Choudhary was seen worshipping and performing rituals at the temple.

A book ‘Prajna’ – a Sanskrit term for wisdom – was launched by the Bihar CM on the occasion.

Choudhary was accompanied by Union minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and BJP MLA Prem Kumar, who represent the region in the Lok Sabha and the state assembly, respectively.

The Bihar CM also offered prayers at the renowned Vishnupad Temple in Gaya, one of the most sacred Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Earlier in the day, Choudhary offered prayers and paid floral tributes at the statue of Lord Buddha at Buddha Smriti Park in the state capital Patna.

He greeted people on Buddha Purnima and said that following the ‘eightfold path’ of Lord Buddha can lead to a balanced and harmonious life.

“The life of Lord Buddha is an inspiration for all of us. By following his eightfold path, we can move forward toward a balanced, meaningful, and harmonious life,” Choudhary wrote on X.

He urged people to resolve to imbibe the ideals of Lord Buddha and contribute to building a peaceful, harmonious and developed Bihar. (PTI)

India, UK discuss ways to boost bilateral trade

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Daily Excelsior

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May 2, 2026

NEW DELHI, May 1: India and the UK on Friday discussed ways to boost two-way commerce and investments and leverage opportunities under the comprehensive economic and trade agreement signed in July last year.

It was discussed during a virtual meeting between Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Peter Kyle.

“We explored ways to further enhance our trade and investment ties while fully leveraging the opportunities under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA),” Goyal said in a social media post.

India and the UK, on July 24, 2025, signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), under which 99 per cent of Indian exports will enter the British market at zero duty, while tariffs on British products, such as cars and whisky, will be reduced in India.

CETA aims to double the USD 56 billion trade between the two economies by 2030. (PTI)

Omar-led Govt committed to safeguard workers’ rights: DyCM

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Daily Excelsior

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May 2, 2026

Labour Commissioner J&K, Charandeep Singh felicitating a worker for his invaluable contribution during a function in Jammu.

May Day rallies held across J&K

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 1: The Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Friday asserted that protecting workers’ and labourers’ rights remains the cornerstone of the Omar-led Government.
He made these remarks while addressing a massive gathering on the occasion of International Labour Day (May Day) at the National Conference Party’s Provincial headquarters, Jammu today. The function was chaired by Th Nar Singh, president of the State Central Labour Union Wing, while additional general secretary Ajay Sadhotra and Provincial president (Jammu) Rattan Lal Gupta attended as guests of honour.
In his address, DyCM emphasized that the Government is prioritizing the welfare of labourers and the working class through a combination of legislative measures and policy initiatives. He noted that special focus is being given to both organised and unorganised labourers/ workers.
Highlighting key initiatives, he said the Government has taken up the regularisation of over 60,000 daily wagers as a priority. He further stated that more than 30,000 vacant Government posts are being filled through the Public Service Commission (PSC) and J&K Services Selection Board (JKSSB) to ensure a transparent recruitment process. He noted that over Rs 30 crore has been sanctioned for construction workers, covering assistance for education, chronic illnesses, and disability.
Ajay Sadhotra described workers as the backbone of the region’s economy and progress, praising their dedication, resilience, and sacrifices. He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and livelihoods of fixed-income groups, daily wage earners, and artisans.
Rattan Lal Gupta highlighted the National Conference’s long-standing commitment to the dignity of labour. He recalled that the party’s historical manifesto advocated equal wages for women in industries, the right to choose any profession, and protection from unsuitable heavy labour.
The speakers also paid rich tribute to labourers across the world for their contributions to nation-building, especially the 1886 martyrs of Chicago who laid their lives for the right of the labourers.
Nar Singh presented a memorandum to the Deputy Chief Minister, seeking effective measures to protect the interests of workers in both organised and unorganised sectors, particularly emphasizing the strict implementation of the Minimum Wages Act.
In connection with the May Day, Jal Shakti PHE Employees and Workers Association held a massive rally at PHE Complex Udhampur. Addressing rally senior Trade Union leader Som Nath recalled the contributions of the working class and paid tribute to the martyrs of Chicago.
Som Nath stressed that JKUT Government must honour its promise and regularize the services of over 61000 daily wagers, release pending wages of the PHE workers, implement Minimum Wages Act in J&K, declared holiday on May Day and remove acute shortage of staff in PHE department.
The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) on Friday organised a workers’ gathering in Srinagar to mark International Workers’ Day, paying rich tribute to the historic struggles of the working class and renewing the call to defend labour rights in the face of emerging challenges.
The programme commenced with homage to the martyrs of the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, whose supreme sacrifice laid the foundation for the eight-hour workday and ushered in a new era of labour rights and protections worldwide. Addressing the gathering, CITU J&K president and MLA Kulgam MY Tarigami described the day as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by workers across the globe who fought against exploitation, oppression and inhuman working conditions.
To mark the International Workers’ Day, hundreds of laborers gathered at the Ware House-Nehru Market, Jammu, and collectively pledged to make the region drug-free.
The event was organized by the Traders Federation Ware House Nehru Market in collaboration with the Jammu district administration. Additional Deputy Commissioner Sher Singh attended as the chief guest, while SDPO South Kuljeet Singh was present as the guest of honour.
The Labour Department, J&K organized a series of impactful programmes in Jammu, in connection with the Intl Labours’ Day, reaffirming its commitment towards the welfare, dignity, and empowerment of workers.
This year’s observance was aligned with the theme “Ensuring a Healthy Psychosocial Working Environment,” emphasizing the importance of mental well-being, safe and supportive workplaces, and the need to address emerging challenges affecting workers’ overall health and productivity.
Labour Commissioner, J&K, Charandeep Singh joined workers at Labour Chowk, Gangyal, where he interacted with them and highlighted various labour welfare schemes aimed at improving their socio-economic conditions. Workers were sensitized about government initiatives and allied schemes.
The Labour Deptt Kathua also observed International Labour Day with a series of awareness cum-outreach programme across the district including a major event at a local factory. The workers were educated about their rights on the occasion.
Glowing tribute were paid to May Day martyrs by All J&K Low Paid Employees Federation at Srinagar today. A meeting was organised in Srinagar city which was attended by activists of the organisation drawn from different parts of the Kashmir Valley.
Those who addressed the rally included Javed Ahmed Shah, Nazir Ahmed, Mohammed Shaban and Abdul Rashid all senior leaders of the Federation. They said that the sacrifices of May Day martyrs will continue to inspire the working class for centuries to come.
They urged the Government to solve the genuine problems of the working class including regularisation of temporary workers and daily wagers , hike in their wages and hike in Medical Allowance to Rs 3000 per month.

Taiwan expresses concern after China calls island biggest risk in US-China relations

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Daily Excelsior

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May 2, 2026

TAIPEI, May 1 : Taiwan’s government expressed concern on Friday hours after a call between China and the United States’ top diplomats in which Beijing stressed that self-ruled Taiwan was the biggest risk in relations.

“Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is concerned about the press release issued by China … which again unilaterally made threatening remarks on the Taiwan issue,” the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

In a call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Thursday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged the United States to “make the right choices” on Taiwan in order to safeguard “stability” between the two nations, according to a statement by the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

The call came about two weeks ahead of a highly anticipated summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, in which Taiwan is expected to be one of the key topics.

China sees self-ruled Taiwan as its own breakaway province, to be retaken by force if necessary. In recent years China has ramped up military pressure on the island by sending warships and military planes near it almost daily.

Beijing also prohibits all its diplomatic partners from maintaining formal ties with Taipei.

The United States, while not recognising Taiwan as a country, is the island’s strongest backer and arms provider.

Trump had previously suggested he would discuss arms sales to Taiwan with Xi, a statement that raised concerns on the island.

Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry on Friday added that China has “recently continued to escalate pressure on Taiwan,” referring to allegations that Beijing disrupted a planned visit by Taiwan’s president to Africa last month.

President Lai Ching-te was forced to postpone a visit to Eswatini in late April after three countries withdrew permission for him to fly over their territories due to pressure from China, according to his office.

China did not confirm nor deny the allegations but instead expressed “high appreciation” for the actions, saying the “relevant countries’ adherence to the one-China principle is in full compliance with international law,” in reference to Beijing’s claims over Taiwan. (AP)

Media Masters beats Kandi Masters by 8 wickets

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Daily Excelsior

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May 2, 2026

Teams posing along with dignitaries during a cricket match at MA Stadium.

Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, May 1: The Khelo Khel-Bhulo Nasha T20 Championship for officers and sports lovers began today at MA Stadium, aiming to promote fitness and a drug-free society. The tournament is organized by the Masters Cricket Association of India in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council.
The event was inaugurated by Rajesh Gill, Deputy Director Prosecution, Jammu, who attended as chief guest, while Sudhir Singh and Altaf Hussain were guests of honour. Speaking on the occasion, Gill emphasized that such events support the Lieutenant Governor’s vision of a “Nasha Mukt” Jammu & Kashmir. He highlighted the ongoing 100-day anti-drug campaign as a key initiative to eliminate substance abuse.
Gill noted that sports play a vital role in encouraging a healthy lifestyle and channeling youth energy into positive activities. He appreciated the organizers and urged wider participation to strengthen the anti-drug mission.
In the inaugural match, Kandi Masters scored 149/9 in 20 overs, with Talib Hussain making 62 runs. In reply, Media Masters chased the target in 17.2 overs, losing only two wickets. Saranjeet Singh starred with an unbeaten 83, guiding his team to an 8-wicket victory.
Officials Ashok and Vijay umpired the match, while organizers reaffirmed plans to host more such events to spread awareness and promote healthier lifestyles.

Census 2027: Around 82 lakh households have opted for self enumeration as field visits begin in 5 states

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Daily Excelsior

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May 2, 2026

NEW DELHI, May 1 : Around 82 lakh households have availed the self-enumeration facility so far during the initial Houselisting and Housing Operations (HLO) phase of Census 2027, a government statement issued Friday said.

In Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, enumerators hit the ground on Friday, starting field operations of the HLO exercise following the completion of the notified 15-day self-enumeration window, it said.

The exercise will continue till May 30, 2026, during which trained enumerators will go house-to-house for data collection.

During the houselisting operations, enumerators will physically visit each house and building and pose 33 questions to the citizens regarding the facilities at their homes, and information regarding the head and members of the household, including their names and sex, and ownership status, among others.

“The self-enumeration facility under Census 2027 has also commenced from today in Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) area, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Meghalaya and Jharkhand,” the statement said.

The online facility for self enumeration in these areas will remain available till May 15, followed by one month of field operations starting May 16, it said.

In Bihar, the notified self-enumeration period concluded on Friday, and house-to-house field operations will commence from May 2, it said.

“The self-enumeration facility, introduced for the first time in Census 2027, has received an encouraging response from the public. As part of the digital approach adopted for Census 2027, so far around 82 lakh households have successfully availed the facility through the official portal,” the statement said.

Under self enumeration, citizens will generate a special ID after filling in the required details and answering the questions on the portal, which they will provide to enumerators who visit their homes during the HLO process for verification.

In a first, the exercise shall be completely digital, with enumerators using a special mobile application on their phones, created specifically for this purpose, to collect the information during field operations.

The housinglisting phase will also lay the groundwork for the subsequent population enumeration phase of Census 2027 which will be conducted next year.

The self-enumeration facility is currently ongoing in Telangana and Punjab as per the notified schedule.

“Meanwhile, field operations under the Houselisting and Housing Census are currently underway in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Goa, Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Mizoram, Odisha, Sikkim and Uttarakhand, along with the NDMC area and Delhi Cantonment Board in the National Capital Territory” the statement said. (PTI)

Ganga Expressway to be toll-free for 15 days: UP Govt

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Daily Excelsior

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May 2, 2026

LUCKNOW, May 1: The Uttar Pradesh government on Friday announced that the Ganga Expressway will be toll-free for 15 days from its commercial operation date, a move aimed at allowing the public to experience the state’s longest expressway without any charges.

“In public interest, it has been decided that the Ganga Expressway will remain toll-free for 15 days from its opening so that the maximum number of people can experience this modern infrastructure,” according to an official statement.

Following the directive, the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) has instructed concessionaires IRB Infrastructure Developers Ltd and Adani Infrastructure to suspend toll collection during the period. No fee will be charged from commuters for using the expressway in these 15 days, it added.

The decision came after the Independent Engineer issued a provisional certificate under the concession agreement, formally declaring the expressway ready for public use and marking its commercial operation date.

The state government said the initiative will encourage wider public usage in the initial phase and allow people to assess the expressway’s quality, speed and facilities firsthand. The move is also expected to promote tourism and strengthen public confidence in the project.

Developed under the public-private partnership model on a design, build, finance, operate and transfer (DBFOT) (Toll) basis, the concessionaires have been granted toll collection rights for 27 years. However, the revenue loss incurred during the toll-free period will be compensated by the state government or UPEIDA as per the agreement.

Despite the toll exemption, there will be no compromise on operation and maintenance standards, including road safety, traffic management and public amenities, UPEIDA said.

Stretching from Meerut to Prayagraj and connecting 12 districts, the expressway is being seen as a major infrastructure boost for the state’s economy, facilitating trade, investment and regional connectivity.

The decision, officials said, reflects the state government’s focus on infrastructure development while ensuring a “public-first” approach to large-scale projects.( PTI)