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CM Omar Abdullah inaugurates multi-purpose sports complex at GDC Tangmarg

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CM Omar Abdullah inaugurates multi-purpose sports complex at GDC Tangmarg

The newly established facility, located within the college premises, is equipped with modern indoor sports infrastructure, including arenas for badminton, table tennis, carrom, and billiards. The complex aims to promote a vibrant sports culture and encourage greater participation of youth in physical activities, particularly during harsh weather conditions in the region.

Minister for Education Sakina Itoo, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Gulmarg Pirzada Farooq Ahmed Shah, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Commissioner Secretary Ram Niwas, Director Colleges, Principal GDC Tangmarg, and other senior officers were present on the occasion.

Following the inauguration, the Chief Minister, as per an official statement, toured the complex and interacted with students. In a lively engagement, he also participated in indoor games including billiards, table tennis, and badminton alongside students and colleagues, drawing enthusiastic applause and appreciation from the gathering.

Earlier, the Chief Minister launched the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan signature campaign from the college premises, urging students to actively contribute towards building a drug-free society.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir.

“Our children are our future. We are making every possible effort to secure a brighter tomorrow for them, but it is equally important to prepare them for the responsibilities ahead. The development of Jammu and Kashmir in the coming years will largely depend on the role played by our youth,” he said.

Highlighting the challenges faced by students in accessing quality higher education within the region, Omar Abdullah noted that the lack of private universities had compelled many families to send their children outside Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in significant financial burden.

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CJ inaugurates Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centre at District Court Jammu

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CJ inaugurates Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centre at District Court Jammu

Present on the occasion were Justice Sindhu Sharma, Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Justice Rahul Bharti, Justice Moksha Khajuria Kazmi, Justice Rajesh Sekhri, Justice Mohd. YousufWani, Justice Shahzad Azeem Judges of High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Yash Paul Bourney Member, J&K Special Tribunal, Jammu, Registrar General Mohinder Kumar Sharma of High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Ravinder Nath Watal Principal District and Sessions Judge Jammu, Registrar Vigilance Rajiv Gupta, Officers of the registry,  Nirmal Kishore Kotwal Bar President along with Bar members, Judicial officers of District Court Complex, Jammu, Monika Kohli Additional Advocate General and Anil Sharma, Chief LADC Jammu.

The facility aims to prevent the secondary victimization and ensure fair, sensitive recording of evidence. This marks a significant step towards victim-centric justice delivery in the Union Territory. The Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centre has been established to provide a safe, non-intimidating and conducive environment for vulnerable witnesses, including children, victims of sexual offences and persons with disabilities, to depose before the court.

The center is equipped with modern facilities including separate waiting areas, live-link video conferencing, one-way mirrors, and child-friendly infrastructure to prevent secondary victimization during trial proceedings, in line with Supreme Court guidelines.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Justice emphasized that establishment of VWDC reflects the judiciary’s commitment towards upholding the rights and dignity of vulnerable witnesses and ensuring fair trial without fear or trauma.

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Kashmir transporters threaten to go on indefinite strike from May 12

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Kashmir transporters threaten to go on indefinite strike from May 12

Srinagar, May 06: Days after a Valley-wide “chakka jam” over the Smart City bus row, transporters in Kashmir on Wednesday announced an indefinite strike from May 12, warning of a complete halt in public transport if the government fails to address their demands.

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Transport Association Kashmir President Shabir Matta, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the decision follows continued “inaction” by the authorities despite repeated outreach by transport bodies after the April 20 shutdown.

“We have given the government time till May 11. If our genuine demands are not met, the entire Kashmir will observe a chakka jam from May 12,” Matta said.

He said transporters from South, North and Central Kashmir had attempted to engage with the administration through visits and public outreach but received no response. “Had the government called us for talks earlier, this situation would not have arisen,” he said.

Matta said the protest is driven by “survival concerns” of thousands associated with the sector. “We are not against the government or development. But our employment is being snatched. First save our livelihood, then we can discuss other issues,” he added.

Referring to the April 20 strike, he acknowledged the hardship caused to the public, particularly students and patients. “We understand people suffered; students missed exams and patients faced difficulties. We don’t want to repeat that, but we are being forced,” he said.

The transport leader reiterated concerns over the expansion of Smart City bus services into routes traditionally operated by private transporters, alleging that local stakeholders are being sidelined in the process.

He urged the government to initiate dialogue, stating that the sector supports thousands of drivers, conductors and vehicle owners across the Valley. “We want to work with the government, not against it. But if ignored, we will be compelled to intensify agitation,” he said.

Transport bodies have further appealed to operators across Kashmir to support the proposed strike, which, if implemented, is likely to severely disrupt daily life, affecting commuters, students and patients across the Valley.

Notably, as already reported by KNO, a Valley-wide “chakka jam” on April 20 had paralysed public transport across Kashmir, leaving commuters stranded and forcing authorities, including Kashmir University, to make alternate arrangements for affected students.

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Authorities ban Tops Soya Sauce batch over excessive sorbic acid preservative in Anantnag

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Authorities ban Tops Soya Sauce batch over excessive sorbic acid preservative in Anantnag

Anantnag, May 06: Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district banned the sale of a specific batch of Tops brand Soya Sauce after laboratory tests found it unsafe for consumption, officials said Wednesday.

The order, issued by the Office of the Assistant Commissioner and Designated Officer for Food Safety in Anantnag, applies to “SOYA SAUCE” under the Tops brand, bearing Lot No. 6A1617AK.

According to the official order, a sample of the product was collected by a Food Safety Officer in Qazigund and sent for testing to the National Food Laboratory in Ghaziabad.

“Food Analyst, National Food Laboratory Ghaziabad vide report No. JK-146/APR/26/154, dated 20-04-2026 confirmed the sample of SOYA SAUCE as unsafe quality due to sorbic acid content exceeding the maximum prescribed limit,” the order read.

Sorbic acid is commonly used as a preservative, but officials warned that levels exceeding prescribed limits could pose health risks.

“Consumption of SOYA SAUCE containing sorbic acid content above the maximum prescribed limit may pose a threat to consumers’ health,” the order said.

The product is manufactured and marketed by G.D. Foods Manufacturing (India) Pvt. Ltd., with facilities listed in Punjab and New Delhi.

Citing provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), 2006, the authority stated that manufacturing and selling unsafe food is prohibited by law.

“Manufacturing/sale of unsafe foods defined under Section 3 (1) (zz)(xi) is prohibited under FSSA, 2006,” the order read.

Invoking powers under Section 36(3)(b) of the Act, Designated Officer Sheikh Zameer Ahmad announced an immediate ban on the product’s sale within the district.

“Now in exercise of powers conferred under Section 36(3)(b) and in the interest of general public health, I hereby prohibit the sale of the food product under reference in the district of Anantnag until further orders,” the order added.

Officials did not immediately say whether a wider recall would be initiated beyond the district.

The order was issued under reference number DO/ANG/2026/1651-54 and dated May 6, 2026.

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US and Iran close to finalising peace deal

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US and Iran close to finalising peace deal

New Delhi, May 06: After protracted and tough negotiations, the United States and Iran are close to finalising a deal to end the conflict. The two sides have held marathon talks for weeks to iron out their differences and arrive at a mutually acceptable framework that could pave the way for a formal agreement and long-term peace.

“We will close this very soon. We are getting close,” the US  source said.

Washington believes it is close to reaching an agreement with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the war, US news outlet Axios reported Wednesday, citing two US officials.

The two sides are close to agreeing on a “one-page memorandum of understanding to end the war and set a framework for more detailed nuclear negotiations.”

It is reported that the two sides have virtually reached an understanding on the most contentious issues, particularly Iran’s nuclear programme and the unblocking of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil transit route. However, a key sticking point still remains over the duration of restrictions on Iran’s nuclear activities. While Washington is insisting on a long-term freeze of around 20 years to ensure that Tehran does not develop nuclear weapons, Iran is reportedly willing to accept a shorter timeline of 12 to 15 years. This gap, though narrower than before, continues to be the main hurdle in finalising the agreement, even as both sides show flexibility on other aspects such as sanctions relief, release of frozen assets, and restoration of maritime movement in the region.

According to Axios, the two sides are close to agreeing on a “one-page memorandum of understanding to end the war and set a framework for more detailed nuclear negotiations.”
It said the deal would involve Iran committing to a moratorium on nuclear enrichment and the United States agreeing to release billions of dollars of frozen Iranian funds.

Washington is reportedly awaiting a response from Tehran on several key points in the next 48 hours.

“Nothing has been agreed yet, but the sources said this was the closest the parties had been to an agreement since the war began,” Axios said. 

Meanwhile,President Donald Trump announced Tuesday a pause in the program, dubbed “Project Freedom,” while noting that the ongoing U.S. blockade of Iranian ports remains in effect. The president attributed the move to requests from other countries, including Pakistan, whose leadership has been moderating negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.

The post addressed the peace talks, as well, with Trump stating that “great progress” had been made toward a final agreement with Iranian leadership. He said the decision to put “Project Freedom” on hold would allow time to see if a permanent deal could be reached. 

Report says that Washington is of the belief that an agreement is within reach as they are moving close to a one-page memorandum of understanding to end the war.

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KPDCL announces power shutdown

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KPDCL announces power shutdown

Srinagar, May 06: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) today said that due to unavoidable repair and maintenance work, the power supply in several parts of Kashmir areas will remain affected in coming days.

In a communication, Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL said the shutdown of 132 KV Mattan will be observed due to which power supply to Achabal, Gopalpora and Pahalgam will be affected from 09:30 AM to 01:30 PM on 11 May 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 132 KV Wanpoh 1st will be observed from from 2:30 PM to 04 PM and shutdown of 132 KV Wanpoh 2nd will be observed from 04 PM to 05 PM, due to which power supply to Anantnag, Malaknag, Qaimoh, Qazigund, Ashajipora, SICOP and Shopian will be affected on 11 May 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 132 KV Lisser will be observed due to which power supply to Hiller, Kokernag and Dooru will be affected from 09:30 AM to 11 AM on 14 May 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of 132/33 KV GSS Mattan will be observed due to which power supply to Achabal, Gopalpora and Pahalgam will be affected from 11 AM to 01:30 PM on 14 May 2026.

Further, shutdown of 132 KV IRCON-I will be observed due to which power supply to GSS Qazigund of Northern Railways will be affected from 02:30 PM to 04 PM on 14 May 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 475 MVA GSS Mirbazar and 220 KV New Wanpoh-1st & 2nd will be observed due to which power supply to Kulgam, Ashmuji, Kilam, Devsar, Chambgund, Nillow, Rambhama, D.H Pora, Nagam, Chawalgam, Yaripora, Behibagh, Achabal, Gopalpora, Pahalgam, Hiller, Kokernag, Dooru, Anantnag, Malaknag, Qaimoh, Qazigund, Ashajipora, SICOP, Shopian, Landoora, Reshipora, Buildtech, Moman, IGC Lassipora, Keegam, Gulshanabad, Mitrigam, Chararipora, Pulwama, Tenghar and adjoining areas will be affected from 09:30 AM to 03:30 PM on 16 May 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of  33 kV HMT line will be observed due to which power supply to Rose Avenue, Umarabad, Malpora, Hajibagh, Palpora, ICCC, Zainakote, Industrial, HMT, Shalteng, Mujgund, Bakshipora, Industrial Area SIDCO and adjoining areas will be affected from 11 AM to 03:30 PM on 07 May 2026.

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Gold, silver soar as US-Iran deal hopes lift bullion demand

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Gold, silver soar as US-Iran deal hopes lift bullion demand

New Delhi, May 06: Gold prices rebounded by Rs 2,900 to Rs 1.55 lakh per 10 grams in the national capital on Wednesday, while silver climbed to Rs 2.54 lakh per kilogram as easing geopolitical tensions triggered a pullback in oil rates, boosting demand for precious metals.

According to the All India Sarafa Association, the yellow metal of 99.9 per cent purity jumped by Rs 2,900, or nearly 2 per cent, to Rs 1,55,400 per 10 grams (inclusive of all taxes) from Tuesday’s closing level of Rs 1,52,500 per 10 grams.

Traders attributed the surge in bullion prices to reports that Washington and Tehran are close to finalising a framework agreement to end months of conflict, raising the prospects of smoother flows through the Strait of Hormuz and easing inflation concerns tied to energy markets.

“Gold rallied strongly on Wednesday as easing geopolitical tensions triggered a sharp reversal in key macro drivers that had recently pressured precious metals,” Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst – Commodities at HDFC Securities, said.

Silver prices also advanced for the third straight session by rising Rs 3,500, or 1.4 per cent, to Rs 2,54,500 per kg (inclusive of all taxes). The metal had settled at Rs 2,51,000 per kg in the previous session, as per the Association.

“The prospect of a diplomatic breakthrough triggered a steep decline in oil prices and the US dollar, easing concerns about inflation while boosting demand for precious metals,” Gandhi said.

Globally, spot gold increased by USD 106.15, or 2.33 per cent, to USD 4,663.70 per ounce while silver gained USD 3.40, or 4.68 per cent, to USD 76.24 per ounce.

“Gold witnessed a sharp rally as markets reacted positively to reports that the US and Iran are moving closer to a one-page agreement framework aimed at ending the conflict,” Jateen Trivedi, VP Research Analyst – Commodity and Currency, LKP Securities, said.

Despite strong international gains, rupee strength limited the upside in domestic gold prices. The market is now highly focused on final confirmation and execution of the proposed deal, he added.

Any negative surprise or breakdown in negotiations could trigger a sharp sell-off in gold, while a successful agreement and sustained ceasefire could push the bullion prices higher in the near-term, Trivedi said.

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J-K LG inaugurates Shri Narsingh Dev Sanskrit Gurukul at Ghagwal

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J-K LG inaugurates Shri Narsingh Dev Sanskrit Gurukul at Ghagwal

Jammu, May 06: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the Shri Narsingh Dev Sanskrit Gurukul at the ancient Shri Narsingh Dev Temple in Ghagwal.

He also dedicated a Nakshatra Park and Yoga Dhyan Kendra to the public and laid foundation stone for Shri Narsingh Dev Public Library and Open Air Amphitheatre.

Addressing a gathering of scholars, students and prominent citizens, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized that the establishment of Shri Narsingh Dev Sanskrit Gurukul is a meaningful reconnection with India’s civilizational roots.

“It is a significant step towards cultural renaissance and the strengthening of the ancient Indian knowledge tradition,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that the land of Ghagwal has historically been a vibrant center of learning where Vedic teachings flourished and the Guru-Shishya tradition thrived, providing students with guidance in the art of living, critical thinking, and the courage to seek the truth.

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted India’s rapid advancement in science, innovation and technology. He further emphasised that the nation’s true strength lies in its cultural consciousness, with Sanskrit playing a vital role in providing a balanced perspective rooted in ethics and duty.

The Lieutenant Governor said that Sanskrit has been a source of essential values and knowledge systems for humanity for centuries. He also recalled the monumental contributions of ancient scholars such as Kautilya, Charaka, Sushruta, Bhaskracharya, Brahmagupta, Aryabhata, and Varahamihira, in shaping the global traditions in mathematics, medicine and philosophy.

He stressed the urgent need to make this vast repository of knowledge accessible in simple, modern language to ensure its relevance for the contemporary world.

The Lieutenant Governor urged the Gurukul management to maintain the highest standards of education by integrating the depth of tradition with the breadth of modernity. He emphasized that the institution must go beyond providing degrees to nurture sensitive, ethical and courageous personalities who can lead the society.

“I believe Shri Narsingh Dev Sanskrit Gurukul will evolve into a centre of excellence by integrating traditional values with modern education,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor appreciated the efforts of Chudamani Sanskrit Sansthan, Shri Narsingh Dev Temple Management Committee, district administration Samba and congratulated them for their vision, dedication and commitment in establishing the Gurukul.

Surjit Singh Slathia, Member of Legislative Assembly from Samba; Shakti Pathak, Director ACB and President of Chudamani Sanskrit Sansthan; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Shridhar Patil, DIG JSK Range; Ayushi Sudan, Deputy Commissioner Samba; and other senior officials, and Vedic scholars attended the inaugural ceremony.

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Lieutenant Governor lays foundation stone for various developmental projects in Samba

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Lieutenant Governor lays foundation stone for various developmental projects in Samba

Jammu, May 06: “Our border villages are the inheritors of a rich tradition of courage and resilience. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we have shifted the narrative. These are no longer the ‘last villages’ of India; they are our ‘First Villages’,” the Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha said on Wednesday.

The Lieutenant Governor was addressing a public rally during his visit to the border village of Regal in the Samba district today, where he initiated and laid the foundation stones for several development projects.

These include establishment of Digital Library at Government Primary School Regal, Construction of Community Hall cum Recreation Centre at Regal, development of Amrit Sarovar at Regal alongwith Drainage Channel, Installation of 03 Open Gyms and Installation of Solar Street Lights.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed that the Administration is resolute to elevate the border settlements from the periphery of neglect to the forefront of national progress.

“Border villages like Regal are the backbone of India. Our glorious history was forged in the arduous paths of these border villages.

We are committed to safeguarding the dignity of every border village family, ensuring that those who have faced the greatest neglect are now accorded the highest priority in the new era of Jammu Kashmir’s progress,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the Government of India is implementing a comprehensive strategy under the Vibrant Villages Programme, which aims to integrate border populations into the national mainstream with focus on Livelihood Generation, Infrastructure and Connectivity. He said that the programme also aims to saturate all villages in 4 thematic areas- all-weather road connectivity, telecom connectivity, television connectivity and electrification through convergence under existing scheme norms.

“Every effort is being made to ensure that the aspirations of every single citizen are fulfilled, that the development demands of border residents are met.

Furthermore, by adopting a “Whole-of-Government Approach,” we aim to ensure that every target set under the Vibrant Villages Programme is achieved,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the officials to ensure that every household in the border villages has access to electricity, mobile connectivity, and economic independence.

“We must ensure that by 2030, not a single family in the border villages of Samba remains below the poverty line,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Responding the demands raised by Member of Legislative Assembly Ramgarh, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated that the administration is committed to providing land ownership rights to displaced persons from PoJK and WPRs.

He also stated that the completion of the Shahpur Kandi Dam would provide a massive boost to the region’s agricultural productivity.

The Lieutenant Governor lauded Regal for becoming a TB-free village and urged continued vigilance regarding clean drinking water and the collective fight against drug abuse.

The Lieutenant Governor also handed over appointment orders to SPOs and sanction letters to various youth of the village and beneficiaries under HADP, Mission Yuva and other schemes.

During his visit to the Regal Border Out Post (BoP), the Lieutenant Governor interacted with the Jawans and lauded their unwavering determination in guarding the nation’s frontiers and commended their exemplary role in Operation Sindoor.

Dr Devinder Kumar Manyal, Member of Legislative Assembly from Ramgarh; Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department; Ashwani Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department; Anil Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works (R&B) Department; Bhim Sen Tuti; IGP Jammu; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary Culture; R. Alice Vaz, Commissioner Secretary to Government, Planning and Information; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Ayushi Sudan Deputy Commissioner Samba; Anuj Kumar, SSP Samba, senior officials of army, police and civil administration and people in large number were present.

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PM Modi to address 45th anniversary celebrations of The Art of Living

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PM Modi to address 45th anniversary celebrations of The Art of Living

New Delhi, May 06: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the landmark celebrations marking 45 years of The Art of Living and the 70th birthday of its founder, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on 10 May 2026, at The Art of Living International Center, Bengaluru.

The event, which draws participants from every walk of life – Government Leaders and civil servants, farmers and engineers, homemakers and CEOs, students and senior citizens, and thousands of international delegates is a unique gathering in celebration of Gurudev’s leadership and the organisation’s reach.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the keynote address at the celebrations and will also inaugurate the newly constructed Dhyan Mandir, a dedicated meditation hall, along with landmark nation-wide service initiatives including year-long projects in mental well-being, rural development, nature conservation and social transformation.

A global meditation for World Peace, led by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and open to all, will be held on 13 May 2026 and live-streamed worldwide. 

Founded in 1981 by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, The Art of Living has grown into a global, volunteer-driven humanitarian and educational organisation present in 182 countries, touching over a billion lives through transformative breathing techniques such as Sudarshan Kriya and pioneering grassroots initiatives in well-being and sustainable development. The other main events which will be held as part of month long celebrations include: 

• Global Leadership Dialogues & Summits on ethics in governance, business, media, education, art & culture and civil society. 

• Cultural festivals showcasing music, dance and artistic expressions from across the diverse cultures of the 182 countries where The Art of Living is present. 

• Recognition ceremonies honouring Unsung Everyday Heroes in over 450 districts across India.
• Policy and thematic roundtables on more humane, sustainable approaches to systems and institutions across industries and public services. 

• A policy roundtable on Prisoner Welfare and Policy Reforms on May 25–26, highlighting best practices and the impact of The Art of Living Program for Prison Inmates.

• BIMSTEC Youth Leadership Exchange, held in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, brought together youth leaders from all seven BIMSTEC countries for a focused leadership immersion at The Art of Living International Center. 

As India asserts itself on the global stage, events of this nature carry significance beyond ceremony. The Art of Living has long served as a carrier of India’s soft power translating ancient wisdom into lived experience for millions who may have had no prior connection to Indian culture or philosophy. 

In this sense, the Art of Living’s 45-year journey is inseparable from the story of India’s growing influence and confidence in the world.

Greater Kashmir

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