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Tuesday, June 30, 2026
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Delayed AIIMS Awantipora races to meet 2026 target

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Delayed AIIMS Awantipora races to meet 2026 target

Srinagar, Apr 26: Multiple deadlines have lapsed for AIIMS Awantipora since 2019, when this project was announced.

The new timeliness included starting OPD Services in March-April, and full operations by the end of this year.

With a history of falling behind in progress, will AIIMS Kashmir, located in Awantipora catch up in the next seven months?

AIIMS Kashmir was conceived under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), and site identified at Awantipora. New AIIMS are aimed at making world-class tertiary and super-specialty healthcare accessible to people across India.

However, years after the announcement, the project tells a story of logistical hurdles, unanticipated security situations and according to some, the gross error in selection of site.

AIIMS are centrally funded Central Sector projects, their ownership, funding and policy control lying with the Centre.

These were announced as part of the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP) for J&K, with Central Public Works Department (CPWD) as executing agency.

The civil works are being carried out by NCC Limited.

Coming up in Awantipora in Pulwama, AIIMS Kashmir remains mired in delays, year after year.

In February 2026, the institute was reported to have “progressed to 70 percent completion”, a figure unchanged from the previous year.

There reportedly are significant cost overruns.

The project has suffered delays due to a combination of factors, including security-related objections that led to revisions in the master plan at the begining of site preparation.

Further delays took place due to additional land acquisition for the site and access-related issues due to absence of any motorable road to the hilltop where it is coming up.

The land for the road was acquired and a macademised road has now connected the site with the main road.

In addition, administrative disruptions, as well as pandemic- and weather-related slowdowns affected construction activity and labour availability.

Some experts believe the site-specific logistical constraints have also contributed to the project missing successive timelines.

AIIMS Awantipora physical progress is stalled at 70 percent.

In January 2026, J&K Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo said that the delays stem purely from “execution snags”.

He said that the project will be complete by the end of 2026.

The first batch of MBBS students was expected to be taken in mid-July, while OPD services were anticipated to start in April 2026.

However, there is no news of any such progress being made.

Kashmir is geographically isolated by the Pir Panjal range and prone to harsh winters.

The absence of a functional AIIMS means denial of access to better healthcare.

The delay in making this Institute operational, progresses from an administrative matter to become a matter of life and health as it turns into prolonged suffering, expensive detours, and delayed treatment for critical conditions including cardiac emergencies, neurological disorders, oncology, and neurosurgery.

For patients requiring super-specialty interventions, there is no other option than to turn to overburdened SKIMS Srinagar or SMHS Hospital.

The load of patients on these facilities often results in chronic delays as per the patients. Kashmir’s far-flung geography amplifies the hardship.

With many districts inaccessible or partially accessible through snow-bound roads in winter, the sheer distance from Srinagar to Delhi for faster interventions is a cruelty.

A senior specialist working in J&K Medical Education said, “AIIMS Jammu has begun fulfilling the promise of decentralised super-specialty care, and advanced medical education while for Kashmir, the promise remains on the horizon.”

He said it was imperative that the 2026 deadline be met to finally bring equitable, timely treatment to people of Kashmir.

Greater Kashmir

No LPG shortage despite West Asia crisis: Govt

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No LPG shortage despite West Asia crisis: Govt

New Delhi, Apr 26: The Government of India on Sunday said there is no shortage of LPG or other petroleum products in the country despite the evolving situation in West Asia, assuring that supply chains remain stable and adequate measures are in place to meet demand.

In an official statement, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said more than 51.8 lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered on April 25, with no dry-outs reported at distributorships across the country. The government urged citizens to avoid panic buying and rely only on official information.

The advisory comes amid concerns linked to the geopolitical situation around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route. Authorities said 100 per cent supply is being maintained for domestic LPG, piped natural gas (PNG), and compressed natural gas (CNG), while priority allocation has been ensured for essential sectors including hospitals, education, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.

To stabilise supply, the government has increased refinery production, extended LPG booking intervals, and made alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal available. It has also encouraged citizens to adopt PNG and electric cooking solutions to ease pressure on LPG demand.

Officials said strict monitoring mechanisms are in place to prevent hoarding and black marketing. Over 2,100 raids were conducted nationwide, with penalties imposed on 310 LPG distributorships and 70 suspended for violations.

The government also highlighted a significant push towards PNG adoption, noting that over 5.45 lakh connections have been activated since March, while more than 42,500 consumers have voluntarily surrendered LPG connections. Infrastructure for an additional 2.62 lakh PNG connections has also been created.

On the supply front, commercial LPG availability has been raised to about 70 per cent of pre-crisis levels, with special provisions for migrant labourers through increased distribution of 5 kg cylinders.

Meanwhile, retail fuel outlets across the country are operating normally, with adequate stocks of petrol and diesel. To cushion consumers from rising global crude prices, the Centre has reduced excise duty on fuel, while also increasing export levies to ensure domestic availability.

The government said coordinated efforts with states and Union Territories are ongoing under the Essential Commodities Act, with control rooms and monitoring committees activated to ensure smooth distribution and prevent misinformation.

In addition to energy security, the Centre also reviewed maritime and diaspora-related measures. More than 2,764 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated from the Gulf region so far, including 24 in the last 24 hours, while around 12.96 lakh passengers have travelled from the region to India since February 28.

The government reiterated that it remains fully prepared to manage the evolving situation, emphasising that citizens should conserve energy and cooperate with authorities to maintain stability.

Greater Kashmir

Amit Sharma calls for citizen involvement

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Amit Sharma calls for citizen involvement

Jammu, Apr 26: Amit Sharma, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director of Census Operations (DCO), Ministry of Home Affairs, on Saturday outlined the roadmap for Census 2027, describing it as a transformative national exercise aimed at strengthening data-driven governance.

Speaking as Chief Guest at a health talk organised by Rotary Club Jammu City in association with Fortis Hospital Gurugram, Sharma said the upcoming Census will be India’s first fully digital and paperless enumeration, designed to generate accurate, real-time and granular data for policy planning.

He said the Census in Jammu and Kashmir will be conducted in two phases. The House Listing Operations (HLO) and Housing Census will be carried out from June 1 to June 30, 2026, preceded by a self-enumeration window from May 17 to May 31. The Population Enumeration (PE) phase is scheduled for February 2027, while snow-bound areas will be covered earlier in September 2026.

Elaborating on the digital framework, Sharma said data collection will be conducted through mobile applications with in-built validation checks to ensure accuracy and consistency. He added that citizens will also be able to participate directly through a dedicated self-enumeration portal, making the process more inclusive and transparent.

Highlighting the significance of Census data, Sharma said it forms the backbone of governance and is critical for policy formulation, targeted delivery of welfare schemes and efficient allocation of resources across sectors such as health, education, infrastructure and social development.

He said preparatory work, including freezing of administrative boundaries, development of digital platforms and training of field staff, has already been completed to ensure smooth conduct of the exercise.

On data security, Sharma assured that robust safeguards, including end-to-end encryption, secure transmission protocols and certified data centres designated as critical information infrastructure, have been put in place to ensure confidentiality under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948. He advised citizens not to share sensitive personal information such as bank details, PAN or Aadhaar numbers beyond the prescribed Census questions.

Calling for active public participation, Sharma urged citizens, particularly members of Rotary networks across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, to spread awareness and cooperate with enumerators. “Census 2027 will play a crucial role in shaping India’s development trajectory and strengthening evidence-based governance,” he said.

The Rotary Club Jammu City also honoured Sharma for his address and efforts to raise awareness about the Census process.

Greater Kashmir

Urdu may face challenges, but it won’t die, we will keep it alive: MLA Baramulla

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Urdu may face challenges, but it won’t die, we will keep it alive: MLA Baramulla

Baramulla, Apr 26: Amid growing concerns over the declining reading habits among youth in the age of social media, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig Sunday said he will utilize his Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to revive library culture and promote book reading habits among students in government schools of his constituency.

Talking to Greater Kashmir on the sidelines of a function organised by the Baramulla Writers’ Forum at Dak Bungalow here, MLA Baramulla highlighted the need to safeguard intellectual traditions in the face of rapid technological advancement.

“Every era presents its own challenges. The current age is marked by the dominance of technology, which, if left unchecked, could outpace social wisdom,” he said. He said that technology will take over if the socially wise people do not come together and keep their intellectual and political wisdom alive. Highlighting the role of literary platforms, MLA described the Baramulla Writers’ Forum as a “respectable initiative” striving to preserve literary culture.

About the demand of the forum to establish an auditorium and a well-equipped library while expanding its outreach, particularly to rural areas, MLA Baramulla every possible help will be done in this regard.

He called for grassroots movement to revive reading habits and stressed the importance of taking literary activities to villages and schools. “We have to develop this culture through books. Seminars should be held in schools besides local writers and intellectuals must be encouraged to organise such events,” he said. MLA Baramulla however expressed concern over the fading culture of reading and cautioned that abandoning books would lead to a superficial understanding of knowledge.

“If the culture of reading dies, it will not lead you to knowledge but to artificial intelligence, artificial poetry, and artificial prose. Everything will become artificial,” he said.

He urged students to engage with diverse literature beyond religious texts and reflect that knowledge in society. On the issue of inadequate library infrastructure in government schools, MLA acknowledged the issue saying that library culture remains weak and outlined a roadmap to address the gap.

“I have started visiting government schools and will ensure that books are provided from my Constituency Development Fund,” he said. He added that efforts are underway to create a participatory reading environment by encouraging students to share their learnings with elders and involving parents through regular meetings. “I intend to work round the clock in this regard,” he said. MLA said he has already initiated steps to promote reading and called for active participation from civil society as well. “Where my role ends, civil society must begin. If society plays its part, we will not let books die,” he said.

He warned that the decline of languages, particularly Urdu, could have far-reaching consequences, reflecting on the broader cultural implications. Invoking literary greats like Mirza Ghalib, Allama Iqbal, and Mir Taqi Mir, MLA Baramulla said their depth and brilliance comes from a rich literary tradition that must be preserved. “Urdu may face challenges, but it will not die. People may die, but languages endure. We will keep it alive,” he said. He said that the survival of literature and language was essential to preserving cultural identity.

Greater Kashmir

Notorious gangster’s associate injured in fire exchange in Jammu: Police

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Notorious gangster’s associate injured in fire exchange in Jammu: Police

Jammu, Apr 26: Police said that a notorious gangster’s associate was injured in an exchange of fire in Miran Sahib area of Jammu district on Sunday.

An official said that acting on a specific intelligence regarding the movement of a known gangster/ drug smuggler Abhineet singh @ Nagi along with his associates, a specialized team from Police Station Miran Sahib laid a strategic trap near the designated area.

He said Abhineet @ Nagi, a hardcore history-sheeter wanted in over 13 pending FIRs – ranging from attempt to murder and rioting to arms smuggling – attempted to break the naka.

However upon being challenged, the accused and his associate riding one motorcycle tried to break the Naka and also opened fire at the police party. In the meantime driver also lost the control on the vehicle, official said.

He also said that in a calibrated response for self-defense and to prevent public harm, the police team retaliated and both the accused left the motorcycle and tried to escape from the spot taking the advantage of darkness. However the police party chased them.

Later on upon the search one of the accused was found in injured condition in the cannal. He was taken to the hospital while other managed to escape from the spot. Police party is in continued search. Further details will follow, official added.

Greater Kashmir

Govt ensures fuel supply, maritime safety, support for Indians abroad; urges no panic buying, says Centre

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Govt ensures fuel supply, maritime safety, support for Indians abroad; urges no panic buying, says Centre

New Delhi, Apr 26: In light of the evolving situation in West Asia, the Government of India remains actively engaged in ensuring preparedness and continuity across key sectors through coordinated response measures. The following update outlines the steps being taken with regard to energy supply, maritime operations, and support to Indian nationals in the region:

Energy Supply and Fuel Availability

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas is taking steps to ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG across the country, in the context of the ongoing situation involving the Strait of Hormuz. As per Ministry:

Public Advisory and Citizen Awareness

Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchase of petrol, diesel and LPG as the Govt is making all efforts to ensure availability of petrol, diesel and LPG.
Beware of rumours and rely on official sources for correct information.
LPG consumers are requested to use digital booking platforms and avoid visiting distributors.
Citizens are encouraged to use alternate fuels such as PNG and electric or induction cooktops.
All citizens are urged to conserve energy in their daily use during the current situation.

Government Preparedness and Supply Management Measures
Despite the ongoing geopolitical situation, the Government has ensured that 100% supply is being made to Domestic LPG, Domestic PNG and CNG (Transport).
For commercial LPG, priority has been given to hospitals, educational institutions. Besides this, priority has also been given to pharma, steel, automobile, seed, agriculture, etc. In addition to this, supply of 5 Kg FTL to migrant labour is also doubled based on avg. daily supply on 2nd and 3rd March 2026.
The Government has already implemented several rationalisation measures on both the supply and demand side, including enhancing refinery production, increasing the booking interval from 21 to 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural areas and prioritising sectors for supply.
Alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal have been made available to ease pressure on LPG demand.
The Ministry of Coal has directed Coal India and Singareni Collieries to allot additional coal to States for distribution to small and medium consumers.
States have been advised to facilitate new PNG connections for domestic and commercial consumers.

Coordinated Efforts with States/UTs and Institutional Mechanisms

State Governments are empowered under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and LPG Control Order, 2000 to monitor supply and act against hoarding and black marketing.
Govt. of States/UTs have to play a primary role in monitoring and regulating supply situation of essential commodities including Petrol, Diesel and LPG. Govt. of India has reiterated the same via multiple letters and VCs to all States/UTs.
The Government of India vide letters dated 27.03.2026 and 02.04.2026 have stressed the need for proactive public communication to reassure citizens regarding adequate fuel availability. Regular review meetings are being held with States/UTs. In this context, meetings were convened on 02.04.2026 (Chaired by Secretary, MoPNG) and on 06.04.2026 (Chaired bySecretary, MoPNG along with Secretaries of I&B and Consumer Affairs), wherein the following was emphasized:
To issue daily press briefings and issue regular public advisories.
To actively monitor and counter fake news / misinformation on social media.
To intensify daily enforcement drives by District admin and to continue raids and inspections in coordination with OMCs
To issue Commercial LPG allocation orders within their States/UTs
To issue SKO allocation orders for additional SKO allotted to the States/UTs.
To promote PNG adoptions and alternate fuels.
To prioritize LPG supply, especially for domestic needs, and adopt targeted distribution of 5 kg FTL cylinders to ensure supply stability.
All States/UTs have established control rooms and district monitoring committees to curb hoarding and black marketing.
Many states/UTs are issuing/carrying out press briefs.

Enforcement and Monitoring Actions

Enforcement actions continue across the country to curb hoarding and black marketing of LPG. Yesterday, more than 2100 raids were conducted across the country.
PSU Oil Marketing Companies have strengthened surprise inspections and imposed penalties on 310 LPG distributorships and suspended 70 LPG distributorships till yesterday.

LPG Supply

Domestic LPG Supply Status:
LPG supply continues to be affected by the prevailing geopolitical situation.
Supply of LPG to domestic households has been prioritized.
No dry-outs have been reported at LPG distributorships.
Online LPG cylinder bookings increased to about 98%on an industry basis yesterday.
Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) based deliveries have increased to about 94% to prevent diversion. DAC is received on the registered mobile number of the consumer.
On 25.04.2026, more than 51.8 Lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered.

Commercial LPG Supply and Allocation Measures:

Total commercial LPG allocation has been increased to about 70% of pre-crisis levels, including 10% reform-linked allocation.
The Government of India vide letter dated 06.04.2026 has conveyed that daily quantity of 5 Kg FTL cylinders in each State available for disbursal to migrant labourers is being doubled based on the average daily supply (Number of cylinders) to migrant labourers during 2nd-3rd March 2026 beyond the limit of 20% mentioned in letter dated 21.03.2026. These 5 Kg FTL cylinders are at disposal of the State Government for supplying only to migrant labourers in their State with assistance of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
Since 1st April 2026, more than 19.44 Lakh – 5 Kg FTL cylinders have been sold.
Yesterday, about 82,000 – 5 Kg FTL cylinders were sold across the country.
Since 3rd April 2026, PSU OMCs have organised more than 8950 awareness camps for 5 Kg FTL Cylinders, wherein more than 1,42,000 – 5Kg FTL cylinders were also sold.
Yesterday, 3846 – 5 Kg FTLs were sold through more than 190 camps.
A three-member committee of Executive Directors from IOCL, HPCL and BPCL is coordinating with State authorities and industry bodies to plan commercial LPG distribution in the States/UTs.
During the month of April-26 (till 25.04.26), a total of 1,64,655 MT (Equivalent to more than 86.66 Lakh of 19 Kg LPG Cylinders) of Commercial LPG has been sold.
On 25.04.2026, 9131 MT of Commercial LPG (Equivalent to about 4.80 Lakh – 19 Kg cylinders) was sold

Natural Gas Supply and PNG Expansion Initiatives

Consumers have been prioritised with 100% supplies to D-PNG and CNG-Transport.
 The overall gas allocation to fertilizer plants has been enhanced to approximately 95% of their six-month average consumption.
 Additionally, gas supply to other industrial and commercial sectors, including supplies through CGD networks, is enhanced up to 80%.
CGD entities have been advised to prioritize PNG connections for commercial establishments such as hotels, restaurants and canteens across all their GAs, to address concerns regarding the availability of commercial LPG.
CGD companies including IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas and BPCL are offering incentives for domestic and commercial PNG connections.
States/UTs and Central Ministries have been requested to expedite approvals required for expansion of CGD networks.
The Government of India vide letter dated 18.03.2026 has offered all States/UTs additional 10% allocation of commercial LPG to States provided they can help in long term transition from LPG to PNG.
22 States/UTs are receiving additional commercial LPG allocation linked to PNG expansion reforms.
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways vide letter dated 24.03.26 has adopted an ‘Accelerated Approval Framework for CGD infrastructure with reduced timelines’ as a special for 3 months to process applications pertaining to CGD infrastructure on priority.
The Government of India vide Gazette dated 24.03.2026 has notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution (Through Laying, Building, Operation and Expansion of Pipelines and Other Facilities) Order, 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. The Order provides a streamlined and time-bound framework for laying and expanding pipelines across the country, addressing delays in approvals and access to land, and enabling faster development of natural gas infrastructure, including in residential areas. It is expected to accelerate PNG network growth, enhance last-mile connectivity, and support the transition to cleaner fuels, thereby strengthening energy security and advancing India’s gas-based economy.
PNGRB has directed CGD entities to expedite D-PNG connections. Also, the National PNG Drive 2.0 has been extended till 30.06.2026 to sustain momentum in PNG expansion.
To encourage a cleaner, more secure and self-reliant energy future, the Government of India has developed a model draft State CBG Policy. The model policy is intended to serve as a comprehensive flexible guiding framework to enable States to create their own investor-friendly and implementation-oriented ecosystem for CBG development. Those States which opt for this, will be prioritized for the next tranche of additional allocation of commercial LPG.
MoEFCC vide order dated 07.04.2026 has directed CPCB to issue necessary directions to SPCB/PCCs for granting consent to establish or consent to operate within 15 days for CGD network/infrastructure.
Since March 2026, about 5.45 Lakh PNG connections have been gasified and infrastructure has been created for additional 2.62 lakh connections taking the total to 8.07 lakh connections. Further, about 6.14 Lakh customers have been registered for new connections.
Till 25.04.2026, more than 42,500 PNG consumers have surrendered their LPG connections via MYPNGD.in website

Crude Position and Refinery Operations

All refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories, while sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel are being maintained.
Domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption.
An inter-ministerial Joint Working Group (JWG) has been set up to ensure availability of petrochemical feedstock supply for the domestic market. Subsequently, Govt. of India vide order dated 01.04.2026 has permitted Oil Refinery companies including Petrochemical Complexes to make certain minimum quantities of C3 & C4 streams available for critical sectors as determined by Centre for High Technology (CHT).
Based on the requests received from the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Chemicals & Petro Chemicals (DCPC), Dept. for Promotion of Industry and internal trade (DPIIT), the provision for 1000 MT/day, from LPG pool, has been made for Pharma and Chemical sector companies.
Since 9th April 2026, more than 7600 MT of propylene has been sold by Mumbai, Kochi, Vizag, Chennai and Mathura refineries to the Chemical and Pharma Industry.

Retail Fuel Availability and pricing Measures

Retail outlets across the country are operating normally.
The Middle East crisis has led to an abnormal increase in crude prices; however, to protect consumers, the Government of India has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre.
Govt. of India vide Gazette notification dated 11.04.2026 has increased the export levy on diesel to Rs. 55.50 per litre and on ATF to Rs. 42 per litre, to ensure availability of these products in the domestic market.
Panic Buying is observed at certain Retail Outlets due to rumours. It is informed that there are adequate stocks of petrol and diesel available at all Petrol Pumps in the country. Regular Retail Prices for Petrol and Diesel are unchanged and there is no price increase at PSU OMCs Retail Outlets.

Kerosene Availability and Distribution Measures

An additional allocation of 48,000 KL of kerosene has been provided to States/UTs over and above regular allocation.
18 States/UTs have issued SKO allocation orders, while Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh have indicated no requirement.

Maritime Safety and Shipping Operations

Necessary measures have been put in place to safeguard Indian vessels and seafarers operating in the region, by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The Ministry stated that:
The Ministry continues to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions and maritime stakeholders to ensure seafare welfare and uninterrupted maritime operations.
All Indian seafarers in the region are safe and no incident involving Indian-flagged vessels has been reported in the past 24 hours.
The DG Shipping Control Room has handled 7,755  calls and more than 16,518 emails since activation. 57 calls and 192 emails have been received in the past 24 hours.
DG Shipping has facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 2,764 Indian seafarers so far, including 24 in the past 24 hours from various locations across the Gulf region.
Port operations across India remain normal with no congestion reported.

Safety of Indian Nationals in the Region

The Ministry of External Affairs continues to monitor developments in the Gulf and West Asia region, with focussed efforts on ensuring safety, security and welfare of the Indian community in the region. It was informed that:
Indian Missions and Posts continue to operate round-the-clock helplines and are proactively assisting Indian nationals. They remain in close contact with the local Governments.
Updated advisories are being issued regularly, including information on local government guidelines, flight and travel situations and consular services and various welfare measures being undertaken to support our community.
Indian Missions remain actively engaged with the Indian community including the various associations, organizations, professional groups, Indian companies and other stakeholders in the region.
Government is according high priority to the welfare of Indian seafarers in the region. Indian Missions are extending all assistance to the Indian crew members on vessels in the region including coordination with the local authorities and agencies, extending consular assistance and facilitating requests to return to India.
Since 28 February, around 12,96,000 passengers have travelled from the region to India.
In the UAE, airlines continue to operate limited commercial flights between the UAE and India based on operational and safety considerations, with around 110 flights expected today between UAE and India.
Flights continue to operate from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to destinations in India.
With Qatar airspace partially open, Qatar Airways is operating flights to various destinations in India.
Kuwait airspace is open. Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways have resumed limited flight operations from Kuwait to India.
Bahrain airspace is open. Gulf Air is operating flights from Bahrain to various destinations in India.
Iraq airspace is open with limited flight operations to destinations in the region, which can be used for onward travel to India. 
Iran airspace is partially open for cargo and chartered flights. Indian nationals are advised to avoid travelling to Iran and those already there in Iran are urged to leave via land border, with our Embassy’s support. So far, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has facilitated movement of 2,445 Indian nationals out of Iran through land border routes.
Israel: Israel airspace is open and limited flight operations have resumed to destinations in the region, which can be used for onward travel to India.

Greater Kashmir

Ladakh to emerge as global hub for finest pashmina wool: LG Saxena

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Ladakh to emerge as global hub for finest pashmina wool: LG Saxena

Leh, Apr 26: Ladakh has the potential to become a global hub for finest Pashmina wool, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said on Sunday and stressed the need to maximise returns for farmers and artisans through value addition and better market access.

To strengthen and promote Ladakhi Pashmina and position it as a global brand, Saxena visited the Pashmina Goat Farm at Upshi.

The visit underlined the administration’s commitment to establishing Ladakh as a premier hub for world-class Pashmina wool, a spokesperson of the Lok Bhavan said.

Noting that Ladakh has immense potential to emerge as a global Pashmina hub, Saxena assured full support from the administration to promote Ladakhi Pashmina as a globally recognised brand.

Underlining the need to ensure better value realisation for local farmers and artisans, he stressed the importance of minimising wastage of raw wool and utilising by-products for value-added items.

He said improvement in processing, branding, new design interventions and market linkages for the Ladakhi Pashmina products would not only strengthen the local artisans and enterprises but also secure higher income for farmers and self-help groups.

During the visit, Saxena was told that Ladakh is home to some of the finest Pashmina wool in the world, renowned for its exceptional softness and superior quality.

He was apprised that there are three Pashmina farms across Ladakh, with the Upshi farm alone producing around 150 kg of raw Pashmina annually, the spokesperson said.

The wool is extracted through a traditional combing technique and subsequently processed at the dehairing plant in Leh, where approximately 35 per cent fine dehaired Pashmina is obtained from one kg of raw wool, the spokesperson said.

Greater Kashmir

Amit Sharma highlights digital Census 2027 roadmap, calls for citizen participation at rotary event

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Amit Sharma highlights digital Census 2027 roadmap, calls for citizen participation at rotary event

Jammu, Apr 26: Amit Sharma, IAS, Chief Principal Census Officer (CPCO) and Director Census Operations (DCO), Ministey of Home Affairs, Government of India, who has been assigned the task of handling census operations of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, yesterday highlighted the roadmap and significance of Census 2027, describing it as a transformative national exercise that will redefine data-driven governance in the country during his keynote address in an important event held in Jammu.

Addressing a special gathering as Chief Guest at a Health Talk organised by Rotary Club Jammu City in association with Fortis Hospital, Gurugram, CPCO Amit Sharma stated that Census 2027 will be India’s first fully digital and paperless Census, aimed at generating accurate, real-time and granular data for effective policy planning and governance.

CPCO Amit Sharma informed the gathering that the Census will be conducted in two phases in J&K, with the first phase of House Listing Operations (HLO) and Housing Census scheduled from June 1 to June 30, 2026, preceded by a self-enumeration window from May 17 to May 31, 2026. The second phase, Population Enumeration (PE), will be undertaken in February 2027, while snow-bound areas will be covered earlier in September  2026 as per notified timelines.

Elaborating on the digital framework, Sharma said that data collection will be carried out through mobile applications equipped with in-built validation checks, ensuring accuracy and consistency. He added that citizens will have the option to participate directly through a dedicated Self-Enumeration portal, making the Census more inclusive, accessible and transparent.

Highlighting the importance of Census data, CPCO Amit Sharma stated that it forms the backbone of governance and plays a critical role in formulation of policies, targeted delivery of welfare schemes and optimal allocation of resources across sectors such as health, education, infrastructure and social development. He noted that reliable data is essential for addressing emerging challenges and ensuring inclusive growth.

Amit further informed that extensive preparatory activities, including freezing of administrative boundaries, development of digital platforms and training of field functionaries, have been completed to ensure smooth conduct of Census operations.

On data security, Sharma assured that robust safeguards have been put in place, including end-to-end encryption, secure transmission protocols and certified data centres designated as Critical Information Infrastructure, ensuring complete confidentiality of individual data under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948 and he requested public not to share any vital information like bank account number, credit card number, PAN, Aadhaar or any other detail other than the answers to questions asked in HLO and PE.

Calling for active public participation, Amit Sharma urged citizens, esp ally all Rotarians in all districts of J&K and Ladakh to create awareness amongst their circles to cooperate with enumerators during field visits and make use of the self-enumeration facility to ensure accurate and complete data collection. He emphasised that Census 2027 will play a crucial role in shaping India’s development trajectory and strengthening evidence-based governance.

Before leaving, the Rotary Club Jammu honoured IAS Amit Sharma for sparing time out of his busy schedule and imparting very relevant knowledge points with the gathering and making them Census literate which is the need of the hour.

Greater Kashmir

Lieutenant Governor pays gratitude to organ donors, their families at ‘Naman Diwas’ in Jammu

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Lieutenant Governor pays gratitude to organ donors, their families at ‘Naman Diwas’ in Jammu

Jammu, Apr 26: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended ‘Naman Diwas’ an event dedicated to honor organ donors and their families. The Lieutenant Governor paid his gratitude to organ donors and their families and said they have brought happiness in the countless lives.

“Because of you, someone is able to read today. Because of you, someone is seeing the colors of the world for the very first time. Because of you, someone is experiencing hope, freedom, and joy anew. I must emphasize with great responsibility that no award from the government or any institution can ever truly capture the value of your gift,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Addressing the gathering of cornea donors’ families and kidney donors, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised that no award can ever truly capture the value of organ donation and Cornea as well Kidney donors are the true role models and heroes of our society.

“In life, we often ask what is humanity’s greatest gift? Across centuries, philosophers, poets, and thinkers have arrived at the same truth that the measure of life is not in what we accumulate, but in what we give. Those we honor today have given the most precious gift of all, the gift of organs, the gift that sustains life itself,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He also observed that in our culture, organ donation is regarded as one of the noblest and most sacred acts.

“I appeal to every citizen to take the pledge for organ donation today. Let society remember that each one of us is a potential donor. Each one of us holds the extraordinary power to save lives even after we are gone,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor commended the work of State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization of J&K (SOTTO J&K) and said the team has worked with deep commitment to raise awareness across communities. He said SOTTO J&K through its campaigns, hospital partnerships, collaborations with NGOs, and training of medical professionals to sensitively identify and manage brain-dead donor cases, has become a movement of compassion and humanity. He urged the SOTTO J&K team to increase registrations and pledges through dialogue and outreach. The Lieutenant Governor had pledged for Organ Donation last year by registering himself on Ayushman Bharat Organ Donation Registry of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.

The Lieutenant Governor also asked the SOTTO J&K’s representatives to spread the message of organ donation through every social network, every community meeting, every school and college, every place of worship, and every workplace.

“To those who hesitate due to cultural or religious concerns, I wish to remind you that our traditions affirm the sanctity of life and the virtue of selfless giving. Speak to any spiritual guide, family members and community elders and you will find that this gift of life is not only respected across faiths but celebrated as a blessing.

Throughout history, organ donation has been recognized as one of the most profound expressions of compassion across the civilizations. A person whose earthly journey has ended can still give new life. Through cornea donation, that same person can restore sight, dignity, and the simple joy of seeing a child’s smile or a sunrise,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Greater Kashmir

At Bengaluru, CM Omar pushes for private university investment to boost J&K education sector

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At Bengaluru, CM Omar pushes for private university investment to boost J&K education sector

Bengaluru, Apr 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today interacted with a delegation of education sector representatives in Bengaluru, highlighting the opportunities created by the recently notified J&K Private University Act.

Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, senior officers and several education representatives were present during the interaction.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister invited institutions to invest in the higher education sector and partner in positioning Jammu & Kashmir as a vibrant academic hub.

The Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026 was passed by the J&K Legislative Assembly during the recent Budget Session. Cutting across party lines, the legislation was widely hailed as a landmark step in the history of higher education in Jammu and Kashmir. The Bill has since received assent from Lieutenant Governor, becoming an Act.

Highlighting the significance of the new framework, the Chief Minister said it opens up substantial opportunities for reputed institutions to establish campuses in Jammu & Kashmir, fostering a modern, inclusive and globally competitive higher education ecosystem.

Emphasising the Government’s commitment to facilitating quality investments in the education sector, he invited leading institutions to partner in shaping the region’s academic future.

He reiterated that the administration is focused on providing a transparent, enabling and investor-friendly environment aimed at attracting students, scholars and research collaborations from across the country and beyond.

Greater Kashmir

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