Srinagar, June 25: MLA Gulmarg, Pirzada Farooq Ahmed Shah, on Thursday said that the Gulmarg Gondola operations are set to resume this afternoon.
“The Gulmarg Gondola will resume operations this afternoon,” the MLA said.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is also scheduled to visit the world-famous tourist resort to assess the cable car operations.
Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan Tuesday chaired a comprehensive review meeting to finalise preparations for the Pulse Polio Immunization Drive scheduled to be held on June 28.
The meeting was attended by the PO ICDS Budgam, CMO Budgam, CEO Budgam, DIO Budgam, all BMOs, ARTO Budgam, and other concerned district officers, health authorities, block-level teams, and officials from supporting departments who are directly involved in vaccination planning, booth management, logistics, supervision, and field execution.
During the meeting, the DC reviewed in detail the district-wide micro-plan for the immunization drive, which included block-wise targets, number of Pulse Polio booths, manpower deployment, and the overall preparedness of health and field teams. Officers presented the complete structure of booth arrangements across Budgam district along with the deployment of vaccinators, supervisors, and supporting manpower to ensure the smooth functioning of the campaign.
A special focus of the meeting remained on high-risk and hard-to-reach areas, with detailed block-wise presentations. The DC emphasised that all these locations must receive dedicated attention, with proper vaccination booths, field supervision, and follow-up mechanisms to ensure that no eligible child is left out.
The meeting also assessed the location and functioning of transit booths, which will be established at busy mobility points such as markets, bus stands, and major travel routes to cover children who are on the move during the campaign period. Officers from the Health Department shared block-wise requirements of vaccine vials, cold chain logistics, printed material, banners, and other necessary supplies for the smooth execution of the drive. The DC reviewed the plan for door-to-door verification activities that will follow the booth day, aimed at identifying and vaccinating any missed children. A detailed schedule of training sessions and workshops for supervisors, vaccinators, ASHAs, AWWs, and other field workers was also presented during the meeting. The DC directed officials to keep track of all migratory and tribal populations, particularly families moving from one district to another, so that every child under five years of age belonging to these groups is covered under the immunization programme.
He stressed that mobile teams and transit points must work in close coordination to ensure that the movement of such populations does not result in any child being missed during the drive. The DC stressed ensuring that no child is left out of the Pulse Polio Immunization Drive and directed officers to ensure 100 percent booth staffing, timely reporting, strong monitoring, and an uninterrupted vaccine supply across all blocks. The DC directed all concerned departments to work collectively for the successful and comprehensive implementation of the Pulse Polio Immunization Drive across District Budgam.
Anantnag, June 25: In a major step towards ensuring the safe, secure and peaceful conduct of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 (SANJY-2026), Anantnag Police has launched ‘Project Hawk Eye’, a comprehensive surveillance and security initiative aimed at maintaining round-the-clock vigilance from the sky to the ground along the entire yatra route to ensuring the safe, secure and peaceful Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 (SANJY-2026).
“Under this initiative, Anantnag Police has deployed a multi-layered security and surveillance grid by integrating advanced technology with strategic manpower deployment. To maintain aerial surveillance, 5 drones detts are being deployed at key locations, providing real-time monitoring and enhanced situational awareness. The aerial surveillance network enables quick assessment of any emerging situation and facilitates prompt response by ground units,” an official spokesperson said in a press statement.
On the ground, 28 strategically located Machan Morchas (elevated observation posts) have been established at vulnerable and sensitive locations to strengthen observation capabilities and enhance area domination. 22 Specially trained sniper teams have also been deployed at designated points to further reinforce the security architecture and ensure effective response preparedness.
To augment the surveillance framework, 416 high-resolution CCTV cameras and Facial Recognition System (FRS) infrastructure have been installed at critical locations along the yatra route. These systems provide continuous real-time monitoring and assist in the timely identification of suspicious movements or activities, thereby strengthening preventive security measures.
Through Project Hawk Eye, Anantnag Police has effectively positioned its eyes in the sky and on the ground, creating a seamless surveillance network that ensures comprehensive monitoring of the pilgrimage route. The initiative reflects the commitment of Anantnag Police towards leveraging modern technology and professional policing practices to provide a secure environment for all pilgrims.
Anantnag Police remains fully committed to safeguarding every aspect of the pilgrimage and ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of SANJY-2026. The public is urged to cooperate with security personnel and immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police establishment for prompt action.
New Delhi, June 24: An Air India plane came in front of an IndiGo aircraft on the same taxiway at the Ahmedabad airport after the Air India plane took a wrong turn while taxiing towards the parking bay on Wednesday evening, according to sources.
IndiGo said both aircraft came to a halt at a safe distance from each other.
The Mumbai-bound IndiGo plane was preparing for take off when the Air India aircraft took the wrong turn, and both planes were separated by around 200 metres on the same taxiway, the sources said.
“We are aware of an incident where our flight AI 2493 operating from Mumbai to Ahmedabad on 24 June, after landing, inadvertently took a wrong turn during taxiing,” Air India said in a statement.
The airline also said there was no compromise on the safety of passengers and crew, and that the aircraft was subsequently towed back to the parking bay.
“The matter has been reported to the regulatory authorities and an investigation initiated,” the airline said.
Both planes were narrow-body A320s.
IndiGo said its flight 6E 5160, scheduled to operate from Ahmedabad to Mumbai, was briefly delayed while taxiing out for departure after an aircraft of another airline inadvertently took an incorrect turn and came in the way of our aircraft.
“Both aircraft came to a halt at a safe distance from each other. The other aircraft was subsequently towed away, and our flight departed and landed safely at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai,” the airline said.
According to IndiGo, the relevant authorities were immediately informed.
Details about the number of passengers onboard both aircraft could not be ascertained.
Caracas, June 25: Back-to-back powerful earthquakes struck off the coast of Venezuela on Wednesday evening, causing widespread damage, collapsing buildings and sending panicked residents into the streets.
The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes roiled the region, with buildings evacuated in cities and areas spread as far as Brazil’s Amazon about 1,700 kilometres (1,050 miles) away.
In a brief address to the nation late Wednesday, acting President Delcy Rodríguez said the earthquakes caused damages in several states, but she did not give any figures of homes and buildings damaged, injures or fatalities.
The earthquakes damaged the country’s main airport, Simón Bolívar International Airport, severely enough to lead to its closure, she said, adding that classes are being cancelled for several days.
“We urge our population to remain calm,” Rodríguez said. “We urge unity.”
Rodríguez also asked all health care professionals in the country to report to hospitals to assist anyone who was injured.
In the state of Falcon, Gov Victor Clark said 32 people had been hospitalised and more than four hours after the earthquake there were still 15 people trapped.
The US Geological Survey initially said the first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1, later revising that to 7.2, and its epicentre was west of the community of Morón, located along the country’s Caribbean coast, about 168 kilometres (104 miles) west of Caracas. The quake had a depth of 22 kilometres.
The USGS reported an even larger 7.5-magnitude earthquake just a minute later. The second quake had a depth of 10 kilometers and its epicentre was 16 kilometres (10 miles) southwest of Morón.
The quakes, among the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century, struck shortly after 6 pm People evacuated swaying buildings in the capital Caracas, many visibly shocked as they saw entire walls that had collapsed, making furniture visible from the street. Dust columns could also be seen in two neighbourhoods of the capital, where restaurants and other businesses are typically busy.
We all had to leave our houses’
People remained on the streets for hours, even after sunset. Some sat on the ground hugging their pets as dust gathered around them. Collapsed buildings, toppled electric poles and debris blocked streets. Parts of the capital lost power and cellphone signal.
“It started off gently and then gradually grew, and in the end, we all had to leave our houses, go outside and gather together,” Caracas resident Hector Ricci said.
The lack of cellphone signal in parts of Venezuela deepened the distress of many families, particularly those among the more than 7.7 million people who have left the country during its protracted crisis.
“May strength, serenity, and solidarity prevail among us in the face of this difficult time,” opposition leader Maria Corina Machado said from exile on X.
Impact felt throughout Venezuela
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the quake could be felt in several states. The Altamira neighbourhood in Caracas had “alarming situations” with collapsed homes and buildings, he said, suggesting people were injured in the earthquake and asking motorists to give way to ambulances and other emergency vehicles.
“We understand that some people may be desperate, but we are acting according to protocols to activate aid and rescue efforts to help those who need it most,” Cabello said on state television. “Be very careful with children and the elderly; call each other and check that no one has been harmed.”
He also urged people to remain outside as aftershocks could further damage some structures.
“The building really shook from side to side. Unreal. The force was incredibly strong,” Caracas resident Roberto Gamas said. “We were walking and it was tossing us around. Everything in the apartment fell. Well, thank God we were able to get out.”
Expressions of support posted on social media
Reaction pouring in swiftly on social media.
Venezuela opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, in exile after leaving Venezuela in December, took to to X to send prayers and wish strength to Venezuelans.
“May strength, serenity, and solidarity prevail among us in the face of this difficult time,” she wrote on X.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele expressed solidarity with Venezuela following the earthquakes, saying his country’s “heart is with the people of Venezuela during these difficult times.”
“We send you all our solidarity and our prayers. Stay strong, Venezuela,” Bukele wrote.
Republican Rep María Elvira Salazar of Florida said her “thoughts and prayers” were with Venezuela and expressed support for families affected, those still waiting for answers and first responders.
“The strength of the Venezuelan people has been tested time and again,” she wrote. “I have no doubt they will face this moment with the same resilience, courage, and hope that have carried them through every challenge.”
Earthquake impacts the region
Buildings in Manaus, Belem and Macapá in Brazil’s Amazon were evacuated, according to reports on TV Globo.
The quakes also were felt in Colombia’s Caribbean and northeast regions, but there were no reports of damages or injuries. The Colombian Maritime Authority in a statement said the country’s Caribbean coast is at no risk of tsunami.
The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami alert for Virgin Islands. Authorities in the Dominican Republic also issued one for the island. Another alert for Puerto Rico was quickly lifted.
Strong earthquakes are unusual in Venezuela.
While the country sits near multiple fault lines, its position straddling the South American and Caribbean plates make earthquakes much less common than in other parts of Latin America. Along the Pacific coast — in Mexico and Chile, for example — earthquakes are frequent. The two countries sit along the seismically active tectonic belt known as the “Pacific Ring of Fire,” which is responsible for 90 per cent of earthquakes, according to the USGS.
The quakes also were felt in Colombia’s Caribbean and northeast regions, but there were no reports of damages or injuries. The Colombian Maritime Authority said in a statement that the country’s Caribbean coast is at no risk of tsunami.
In Brazil’s Amazon, buildings in the cities of Manaus, Belem and Macapá also were evacuated.
Gold prices declined by Rs 1,200 to Rs 1.48 lakh per 10 grams in the national capital on Wednesday, and silver dropped by Rs 4,000, as the US dollar gained strength amid weak global trends.
According to the All India Sarafa Association, the yellow metal of 99.9 per cent purity decreased by Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,48,100 per 10 grams (inclusive of all taxes) from Tuesday’s closing level of Rs 1,49,300.
Silver also extended its downward trend for the second straight day, falling Rs 4,000 to Rs 2,31,000 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes). It had settled at Rs 2,35,000 per kg in the previous session after plunging Rs 10,500, its steepest fall in over two weeks.
Analysts said the latest losses have pushed the white metal prices to levels last seen in early April, when the metal traded at Rs 2.37 lakh per kg, as traders continue to favour dollar-denominated assets.
“Gold prices extended their decline on Wednesday, as a powerful rally in the US dollar and growing expectations of tighter monetary policy continued to pressure precious metals,” Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst of Commodities at HDFC Securities, said.
In the overseas markets, spot gold slipped by USD 52.01, or 1.3 per cent, to USD 4,058.10 per ounce, while silver fell nearly 2 per cent at USD 60.48 per ounce.
“Gold prices extended their slide on Wednesday to trade around USD 4,050 per ounce as the dollar index is once again becoming stronger to breach the 101 level, the highest since May 2025,” Praveen Singh, Head of Commodities at Mirae Asset ShareKhan, said.
The greenback also gained after European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde downplayed the need for a forceful response to inflationary pressure after the June rate hike, he added.
Analysts said the decline in precious metals in the overseas trade reflects a broader liquidity-driven adjustment across financial markets.
“The weakness is being driven by a broader liquidity event triggered by sharp profit-booking and sell-offs in global AI and technology stocks,” Jateen Trivedi, VP Research Analyst – Commodity and Currency, LKP Securities, said.
As investors face losses in equities, many are liquidating gold holdings to raise cash, meet margin requirements and reduce leverage, he noted.
“At the same time, money is flowing into the US dollar, with the greenback adding further pressure on bullion prices.
“This is one of those rare periods where both equities and gold are declining together as investors sell what they can rather than what they want,” Trivedi said.
Market participants expect gold to remain under pressure, with rallies likely to attract fresh selling until signs emerge of a softer dollar or renewed investment demand for the precious metals, analysts said.
Union Minister of State for PMO Dr Jitendra Singh Wednesday pitched for “BRICS Space Economy” as the next frontier of global growth and called for collective action among member nations to unlock new opportunities in innovation, investment, entrepreneurship and sustainable development.
Addressing the valedictory session of the BRICS Heads of Space Agencies (HOSA) Meeting in Bengaluru, Dr Jitendra Singh said BRICS countries possess the scale, scientific capabilities, technological strengths and industrial capacity required to emerge as a major force in the rapidly expanding global space economy.
“The future of the space economy will not be shaped by nations working in isolation. It will be shaped by partnerships, shared innovation and collective ambition. BRICS countries have the potential to become one of the strongest pillars of this emerging global space ecosystem,” Dr Jitendra Singh said.
The minister also released the Indian Space Industry Brochure, exchanged mementoes with the Heads of Space Agencies participating in the meeting and interacted with representatives of India’s fast-growing NewSpace sector.
The interaction showcased the growing capabilities of Indian space startups and private enterprises before the visiting BRICS delegations.
Hosted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) under India’s BRICS Chairship 2026, the two-day meeting brought together Heads of Space Agencies and senior officials from Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. Chairman, ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space Dr V. Narayanan, Chairman, IN-SPACe Dr. Pawan Goenka, senior officials from the Department of Space, representatives of Indian space industries and NewSpace startups also participated in the concluding session.
The meeting reviewed progress in BRICS space cooperation and deliberated on key issues including space sustainability, debris-free missions, strengthening the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation (RSSC), expanding participation of new BRICS members in existing cooperation mechanisms, and advancing discussions on the proposed BRICS Space Council. Deliberations also covered future collaboration in disaster management, Earth observation, capacity building and knowledge sharing.
Dr Jitendra Singh said that space technology has emerged as one of the most powerful drivers of economic transformation and societal progress, enabling countries to strengthen communication networks, navigation systems, disaster preparedness, agriculture, healthcare, education and environmental monitoring.
He said challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, food and water security, environmental degradation and sustainable urbanisation increasingly require collective solutions supported by advanced space technologies.
Referring to the growing role of BRICS in the global space landscape, the minister said the grouping represents a significant share of the world’s population, economic output, scientific expertise and technological capabilities.
He said deeper cooperation among BRICS countries can create new opportunities for innovation, industrial partnerships, technology transfer, investment and economic growth while addressing common developmental priorities.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation has already demonstrated the value of collaborative space applications through satellite data sharing among member countries.
He expressed confidence that ongoing discussions on institutional mechanisms, including the proposed BRICS Space Council, would provide greater momentum and continuity to future cooperation in the space sector.
The minister said India’s space programme has consistently focused on ensuring that the benefits of space technology reach ordinary citizens.
Guided by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s space sector has undergone transformative reforms that have opened unprecedented opportunities for private industry, startups, academia and global partnerships, resulting in one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly expanding space ecosystems.
Dr Jitendra Singh said India’s achievements such as Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1 and the continuing progress of the Gaganyaan mission have not only expanded the frontiers of science and technology but have also created new avenues for international collaboration in advanced space research and applications.
Emphasising the importance of sustainability, Dr Jitendra Singh said that the long-term future of space activities depends on preserving outer space as a safe, secure and sustainable domain.
He called for greater international cooperation, transparency, responsible behaviour and capacity building to address challenges arising from increasing space traffic and orbital debris.
He welcomed the discussions held during the meeting on debris-free missions and sustainable space operations as important steps towards safeguarding the space environment for future generations.
Calling for a more ambitious vision of cooperation, Dr Jitendra Singh said India envisions BRICS space engagement evolving from coordination to co-creation.
“BRICS nations must move beyond consultation and work towards co-development, co-innovation and co-creation. By bringing together our scientists, engineers, industries, startups and young innovators, we can develop solutions for global challenges, create new economic opportunities and build a stronger framework for scientific advancement and shared prosperity,” he said.
The minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to working closely with all BRICS partners to transform shared aspirations into concrete outcomes and to ensure that space continues to serve as a powerful force for development, resilience, innovation, sustainability and international cooperation.
A formal meeting of the Committee on Privileges of the Legislative Assembly was held Wednesday at the Assembly Secretariat under the chairmanship of MLA Justice (Retd) Hasnain Masoodi.
Legislators Showkat Hussain Ganie, Khurshied Ahmad, Zafar Ali Khatana, Vijay Kumar, Rajeev Kumar along with officials from Assembly Secretariat were present in the meeting.
The Chairman highlighted the significance of the Committee on Privileges, describing it as an important committee of the House entrusted with safeguarding the privileges, dignity and authority of the Members of the Legislative Assembly. He emphasized the need for expeditious disposal of the pending cases before the committee and called for timely redress of all matters referred to it. The members deliberated in detail on various issues concerning the functioning of the committee. They underscored the importance of strengthening its role in upholding the privileges of the House. They also offered valuable suggestions for improving the effectiveness and functioning of the committee.
The Committee instructed the Chief Secretary to ensure strict adherence to and protection of the privileges of the Members of the Legislative Assembly. It emphasized that any breach of privilege of a MLA shall be viewed seriously and that necessary measures shall be taken to prevent such instances.
The Committee also took up three privilege motions referred to it and issued notices in all the cases. The concerned officials have been directed to remain present before the committee during its next meeting scheduled for July 8, to facilitate the examination and disposal of the matters. The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the committee’s commitment to safeguard the privileges of the House and ensure prompt redress of all pending cases.
Caracas, Jun 25: Back-to-back powerful earthquakes slammed Venezuela on Wednesday evening, collapsing buildings in the capital of Caracas.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) said the first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1 and its epicentre was west of the community of Morón, located along the country’s Caribbean coast, about 168 kilometres west of Caracas. The quake had a depth of 13 kilometres.
The USGS reported an even larger 7.5-magnitude earthquake just a minute later. The second quake had a depth of 10 kilometres and its epicentre was 16 kilometres southwest of Morón.
The quakes are among the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century.
The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre issued a tsunami alert for Virgin Islands. Authorities in the Dominican Republic also issued one for the island. Another alert for Puerto Rico was quickly lifted.
People evacuated swaying buildings in Caracas and remained outside, many visibly shocked as they saw entire walls that had collapsed, making furniture visible from the street. Dust columns could also be seen in two neighbourhoods of the capital, where restaurants and other businesses are typically busy.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the quake could be felt in several states. The Altamira neighbourhood in Caracas had “alarming situations” with collapsed homes and buildings, he said, suggesting people were injured in the earthquake and asking motorists to give way to ambulances and other emergency vehicles.
“We understand that some people may be desperate, but we are acting according to protocols to activate aid and rescue efforts to help those who need it most,” Cabello said on state television. “Be very careful with children and the elderly; call each other and check that no one has been harmed.”
He also urged people to remain outside as aftershocks could further damage some structures.
“The building really shook from side to side. Unreal. The force was incredibly strong,” Caracas resident Roberto Damas said. “We were walking and it was tossing us around. Everything in the apartment fell. Well, thank God we were able to get out.” (AP)
Pulwama, Jun 24: Residents of the twin villages of Sirnoo and Babgund in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district have raised serious concerns about the quality of drinking water supplied through a borewell-fed overhead water tank, alleging that the water is unfit for human consumption and poses a potential threat to public health.
Residents said the water supplied to households has an unusual colour and taste, making it unsuitable for drinking as well as other domestic purposes. They said the deteriorating quality of the water has become a matter of growing concern, particularly among families with children, elderly persons and those suffering from various ailments.
“The water supplied through the overhead tank appears contaminated. Its colour and taste are abnormal, and people are worried about the health implications of consuming it,” said Mudasir Ahmad, a resident.
Ahmad alleged that water from a pit was being supplied to the overhead tank, raising questions about the quality and safety of the drinking water being distributed to households.
Another resident said access to safe drinking water was a basic necessity and urged the authorities to ensure that the supply met prescribed quality standards.
Residents expressed apprehension that prolonged consumption of contaminated or untreated water could lead to water-borne diseases and other health complications.
“The threat of water-borne diseases looms large over the area,” the residents said, adding that the issue warranted immediate intervention to safeguard public health.
They have called for a comprehensive assessment of the water source and the overhead storage tank to ascertain whether the water is fit for human consumption. The residents also demanded regular water quality monitoring, installation of an effective filtration system, periodic cleaning of the overhead tank and timely maintenance of the borewell infrastructure to prevent contamination.
The residents said immediate corrective measures were needed to restore public confidence in the drinking water supply system and ensure uninterrupted access to clean and potable water.
“We are only asking for safe drinking water for our families. The authorities should act before the situation worsens,” they said.
Officials of the Jal Shakti Department said they would look into the issue.
