Excelsior Correspondent
UDHAMPUR, Apr 24: Police arrested two drug peddlers at Battal in Majalta and recovered more than 10 grams of heroin from their possession, while another drug peddler was held with 1000 Pregabalin Capsules at Phalata in Rehambal.
Police team during naka checking at PCP Battal, intercepted a Brezza car bearing registration number JK14J-4253, coming from Mansar Road towards Battal. During checking, more than 10 grams of heroin was recovered from the two persons travelling in the vehicle.
The accused have been identified as Vikram Singh, son of Moti Singh, resident of Majalta, District Udhampur (from whom 5.020 grams of heroin was recovered) and Atul Singh, son of Romesh Singh, resident of Majalta, District Udhampur (from whom 5.030 grams of heroin was recovered).
Accordingly, FIR No. 53/2026 U/S 8/21/22 NDPS Act has been registered at PS Majalta and both the accused have been arrested. The vehicle used in the commission of offence has also been seized.
Meanwhile, a police party of Police Station Rehambal during naka checking at Phalata, intercepted one Alto car bearing Registration No. JK02AG-1118. During checking of the said vehicle, 100 strips of Pregabalin capsules (1000 capsules) were recovered.
The driver of the vehicle namely Anil Kumar, son of Bishan Dass, resident of Karkyal, Tehsil Katra, was not able to provide any satisfactory reply regarding the possession of the said capsules. In this regard, the Assistant Drug Controller has been informed accordingly for further necessary legal action.
Three drug peddlers arrested
Relief Commissioner reviews implementation of Special Relief Ration Scheme at Jagti
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 24: Relief & Rehabilitation Commissioner (M) J&K Dr Arvind Karwani today led a team of officers from Relief Organization and Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department to take a detailed review of the implementation of the ration distribution in terms of the Special Relief Ration Scheme for Kashmiri/Jammu Migrants at Mini Township Jagti.
Dr Karwani conducted a grievance redressal camp and interacted with a large number of migrants. Most of the grievances related to supply of ration under the new scheme. The public was assured that ration distribution from all designated 32 ration depots in District Jammu shall be ensured in a hassle free manner and migrant can avail ration from any nearest ration depot.
It was also conveyed that all relief ration card holders (irrespective of categorization into PHH, NPHH or Special category) shall continue to receive 11 Kg free ration per person per month and 1Kg sugar as per the extant scale of ration distribution. Besides, those registered with the Relief Organisation under the non relief category (Pensioners etc) and categorized into NPHH category will also receive ration on government approved rates as per their entitlement under NFSA.
Pertinently, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, in terms of S.O 392 and S.O. 393 of 2024, both dated 13.08.2024, has made necessary amendments in the Jammu & Kashmir Food Security Rules, 2021 and the Targeted Public Distribution (Control) Order 2023 for integration of the Migrant Ration Cards into National Food Security Act(NFSA) database, to enable migrants to avail the benefits of various Government Schemes.
Further, the Government in terms of Government Order No. 27-JK(DMRRR) of 2025 dated 16.05.2025, has clarified that the existing scale of ration distribution to the migrants registered under the relief category and norms/procedures for inclusion, deletion, bifurcation, conversion and corrections etc shall continue as per the norms of Relief Organisation. This has also been clarified through a number of public notices and jingles issued through the Department of Information & Public Relations J&K. About 400 families have so far availed the benefit of various social sector schemes.
On spot directions were issued for smooth distribution of ration to migrants. The concerned officials were directed to ensure full facilitation for completion of e-KYC formalities of all pending Relief Ration Card holders.
Interacting with the officials of the Social Welfare Department, Dr Karwani appreciated the efforts being put in for organizing special camps for facilitation of eligible migrants at various locations across Jammu.
The Zonal Officers/ Camp Commandants were directed to reach out to all eligible potential beneficiaries and facilitate them in filling various online applications for availing benefits of different social sector schemes like Old Age Pension, Widow Pension, Disability Pension, Marriage Assistance, Ayushman Bharat and various scholarships. Dr Karwani was apprised that more than 100 potential beneficiaries have been facilitated at the special camp held today.
Prof Ganie wins prestigious RAE Award
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 24: Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, Director of Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, has been awarded the 2026 “Recognition of Academic Excellence (RAE)” by the National Academy of Medical Sciences for his pioneering research on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and its role in driving non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India.
The award, under the Achanta Lakshmipathi RAE category in maternal and child health, women’s health and community nutrition, was presented in New Delhi during the 66th Foundation Day of NAMS by P. K. Mishra.
The honour recognises Prof. Ganie’s extensive work linking PCOS with increased risks of diabetes, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases, and highlighting its intergenerational impact on offspring.
As National Chief Coordinator of the ICMR PCOS Task Force study, Prof. Ganie led a multi-centric research project across 18 centres that produced India’s first large-scale composite data on PCOS.
The findings, published in an international journal, indicate that maternal PCOS may predispose children to early onset of diseases such as type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hypertension.
During the event, Prof. Ganie delivered the Foundation Day oration titled “PCOS as a Central Driver of NCDs Epidemic in India,” presenting his findings before leading medical experts.
As per the details, the research also contributes to developing improved diagnostic benchmarks and risk prediction models tailored to Indian women, addressing gaps in clinical practice.
Apart from his role at SKIMS, Prof. Ganie heads the M.P.-PCOS Society and is working on integrating metabolic data to build a comprehensive national database linking research with clinical care.
Denial of Statehood hits J&K’s development prospects: Rana
*Promises made by NC will be fulfilled: Gupta
Excelsior Correspondent
DODA, Apr 24: Senior Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader and Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest and Tribal Affairs, Javed Rana, today said that the long-promised restoration of statehood is not merely a constitutional obligation but the key to restoring effective governance and accelerating development in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a massive gathering of party functionaries and workers at Doda today Rana asserted that without full Statehood, bureaucratic bottlenecks and policy paralysis will continue to hamper progress. He urged the Centre to act decisively and honour its commitment without further delay.
Highlighted the pro-people initiatives taken by the Omar Abdullah-led Government to undo the developmental setbacks of the previous decade under non-NC regimes, he said the Jammu region is back on the path of growth, with focused investments in education, infrastructure, employment generation, healthcare, and welfare of backward and economically weaker sections.
He added that the government is committed to inclusive governance and will fulfill every promise made in its manifesto. However, he noted that the delay in restoration of Statehood has a debilitating impact on developmental outreach, given the region’s geographical and linguistic diversity and its unique challenges, which cannot be effectively addressed under the present Union Territory setup.
Echoing these views, Provincial president of the party for Jammu, Rattan Lal Gupta said the Government has faced multiple challenges since assuming office, including depleted finances, natural calamities, and the Pahalgam attack. He alleged that the previous BJP-PDP regimes had weakened governance and reduced public participation, issues that are now being reversed.
Gupta said the present Government has made governance more accessible and people-centric, introducing welfare measures such as free travel for women, 200 units of free electricity, additional ration support, enhanced social welfare pensions, and employment initiatives. Gupta said Omar Abdullah led Government is committed to fulfill all promises made in party manifesto. He further urged to the party functionaries to gear up their cadre for the upcoming Panchayat and Local Bodies elections.
The meeting was presided our by Shadab Suharwardy District president Doda Urban. Others who were present included Abdul Gani Teli, Chairman OBC Cell; Harshvardhan Singh, president NCSU; Naveed Hashmi Zonal president Chenab Valley Zone YNC; Asim Hashmi former DDC Member; Farooq Ahmad (Gazi) District secretary Doda Urban, Sarshad Natnoo former BDC Chairman and Zaffarullah Rather.
DG Border Roads calls on LG
Excelsior Correspondent
Jammu, Apr 24: Lt Gen Harpal Singh, Director General, Border Roads called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, today.
Dr Jitendra chief guest at ‘Netherlands National Day; cites enduring relationship, ‘Philips’ connection
Excelsior Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Apr 24: At the celebration of the National Day of Netherlands, the “King’s Day” at the Dutch Embassy at Chanakyapuri here,Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Minister of State in PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today cited said that India-Netherlands share an enduring relationship and the bond between the two nations is steadily progressing towards a stronger strategic partnership.
The Minister was the chief guest on the occasion.
Highlighting the long-standing ties between the two countries, the Minister said that India and the Netherlands share a deep relationship which has remained steady and continues to grow despite evolving global geopolitical dynamics.
Fondly referring to the famous Dutch Multinational Company, the “Philips”, Dr Jitendra Singh observed that it had more consumers in India than in Netherlands.
Dr Jitendra Singh noted that the bilateral partnership spans key sectors including water management, agriculture and high technology sectors, reflecting the strong complementarities between the two countries. He also referred to growing collaboration in emerging areas such as semiconductors and innovation-driven sectors.
The Minister underlined that India and the Netherlands enjoy a high degree of mutual trust and ease of collaboration, which has contributed to expanding economic engagement, including significant bilateral investments.
Referring to people-to-people ties, Dr Jitendra Singh said the Indian diaspora in the Netherlands, though relatively small in number, remains active and contributes to strengthening bilateral relations.
Ambassador of the Netherlands to India, Marisa Gerards, highlighted that India and the Netherlands are moving towards a stronger strategic partnership, working together in areas such as climate resilience, sustainable agriculture and global supply chains.
The Ambassador also emphasised that the partnership between the two countries combines innovation, technology and shared values to address global challenges.
Dr Jitendra Singh expressed confidence that India-Netherlands relations will continue to strengthen further across diverse sectors of mutual interest.
The event was attended by members of the diplomatic community and other distinguished guests.
Heritage Chinar axed in Handwara, locals fume
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 24: A massive decades-old chinar tree was felled near the Ganapora bus stop in the Kralgund area of north Kashmir’s Handwara today.
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The felling took place during ongoing construction work on National Highway-701, sparking concern among residents and environmental observers.
Locals said the incident has heightened worries over the impact of infrastructure projects on protected and heritage trees.
They urged authorities to strike a balance between development and environmental conservation and described the axing as a significant loss to the natural heritage.
Chinar trees, regarded as an integral part of Kashmir’s ecological and cultural landscape, hold immense environmental and symbolic value in the Valley.
MLA Irfan Hafiz Lone termed the incident a matter of “grave concern,” stressing that environmental protection must remain a priority.
“Environment is of paramount importance, and such actions are deeply concerning. We urge the Government and the administration to ensure that trees are not axed indiscriminately. Road alignments should be planned in a way that preserves these trees,” he said.
The legislator said the issue has been taken up with the concerned authorities, calling for immediate steps to prevent further loss.
He also highlighted the need for compensatory plantation, noting that such measures have not been adequately implemented in recent highway projects.
“On the Srinagar-Baramulla highway, there was a provision for plantation in case of tree felling, but we have not seen that happening. In many cases, roads have been constructed in a manner that leaves little scope for replantation,” Lone added.
He said there is growing public concern over tree felling and stressed that authorities must find ways to safeguard such heritage trees without hindering developmental works.
Dharmarth Trust celebrates Baglamukhi Jayanti
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 24: J&K Dharmarth Trust today celebrated Baglamukhi Jayanti with great religious fervour and devotion at the historic Shree Raghunath Ji Temple.
A large number of devotees thronged the temple to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Maa Baglamukhi on the auspicious occasion.
On the occasion, Trustee of Dharmarth Trust, Ranvijay Singh, performed the rituals and offered prayers, followed by the sacred Aarti at Karaneshwar Temple.
Speaking on the occasion, Singh highlighted the spiritual significance of Baglamukhi Jayanti and said that Maa Baglamukhi symbolizes strength and protection from negative forces.
He called upon devotees to imbibe the divine teachings of Mata Baglamukhi Ji in their lives and seek her blessings for peace, prosperity, and well-being.
Singh said that the Trust, under the patronage of Dr Karan Singh, Chairman Trustee, remains committed to the preservation, promotion and propagation of the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Sanatan Dharma.
“Such religious events play a vital role in strengthening faith and connecting people with their cultural roots,” he added.
Officials of the Dharmarth Trust actively participated in the religious proceedings.
JKBOSE notifies dates for submission of Bi- Annual exam forms
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 24: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (J&K BOSE), has notified schedule for the submission of online permission cum examination forms for Class 10 and 12 Annual (Private)/Bi-Annual 2026 session.
The schedule applies to all eligible candidates across the UTs of J&K and Ladakh, including both Winter and Summer Zone areas.
As per the notification, re-appear and failure candidates of class 10 can submit their examination forms in online mode whereas the fresh private candidates can submit their forms in offline mode from April 27 to May 09 on payment of normal prescribed fee of Rs 1300 and with a late fee of Rs 2150 from May 11 to 16.
Likewise, re-appear and failure candidates of class 12 can submit their examination forms in online mode whereas the fresh private candidates can submit their forms in offline mode from April 27 to May 09 on payment of normal prescribed fee of Rs 1510 and with a late fee of Rs 2360 from May 11 to 16.
The detailed notification alongwith necessary guidelines, fee structure and instructions are available on the official website of Board jkbose.jk.gov.in
JKPCC, Traffic Police intensify surprise checking against vehicular pollution
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 24: In a continued effort to curb rising air pollution levels, the Jammu & Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC), in coordination with the Traffic Police Department, has intensified its enforcement drive against vehicular pollution across Jammu city.
As part of the campaign and as per the directions of authorities of JKPCC and Traffic Police, surprise inspections were carried out at key locations including Bikram Chowk, Narwal, and the Sidhra Highway. During the drive, more than 60 petrol and diesel vehicles were randomly checked to ensure compliance with Pollution Under Control Certificates (PUCC). Vehicles found violating norms, particularly those without valid PUCCs, were challaned on the spot.
Speaking on the occasion, Kuldeep Bhan, Divisional Officer In-Charge (Vehicular Pollution), Jammu Province, highlighted that vehicular emissions remain a major contributor to urban air pollution, accounting for nearly 60–70% of total pollutants. He emphasized that harmful emissions such as Carbon Monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and oxides of Sulphur and Nitrogen pose serious health risks and are carcinogenic in nature.
The enforcement drive was also joined by Dy. S.P. Traffic South, Dr. Sunniya Ashkoor Wani, along with her team of traffic officials. The JKPCC team present during the drive included Inspector Vinay Koul, Vishal Bargotra, and Rakesh Sharma.
Kuldeep Bhan further stated that such intensive drives will continue in the coming days across Jammu city and its adjoining districts. He added that similar awareness and enforcement campaigns will also be organized in adjoining districts to ensure strict compliance with pollution control norms for ensuring public safety in particular and environmental health in general.