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‘Rang-e-Kashmir’ returns with 4th edition in Srinagar

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‘Rang-e-Kashmir’ returns with 4th edition in Srinagar

After the successful completion of three major cultural events across India, Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation presents the 4th edition of “Rang-e-Kashmir” – A Cultural Heritage Festival, scheduled to be held from May 9 – 17 at Sher-e-Kashmir Garden, Srinagar.

The foundation has consistently worked towards promoting India’s rich cultural heritage and supporting traditional artisans through large-scale cultural exhibitions, said a press release.

Each of these events witnessed strong participation from artisans, performers, and cultural enthusiasts, establishing the foundation as a committed platform for preserving and promoting traditional art forms. Building on this success, the upcoming Srinagar edition marks a significant step, bringing the event closer to its roots. Organised during the peak tourist season, the festival aims to offer visitors a deeper perspective of Jammu & Kashmir. While the region is widely known for its scenic beauty, Rang-e-Kashmir seeks to highlight that Kashmir is not just about landscapes, but also about its rich history, culture, and artistic heritage. The initiative is designed to help visitors understand the true essence of Kashmir beyond its natural charm.

The event will showcase a diverse range of authentic handicrafts and handlooms, with artisans displaying and selling their work while also conducting live demonstrations of traditional techniques such as embroidery, weaving, wood carving, and papier-mâché.

These interactions will allow visitors to directly engage with artisans and understand the craftsmanship behind each creation. A major attraction of the festival will be the daily cultural programs scheduled from 5 pm to 8:30 pm, featuring traditional music, folk dances, storytelling sessions, and performances by artists from the region.

The event will also include a specially curated wedding dress and accessory corner with Doli Drapes, showcasing bridal collections and traditional wedding elements, adding a unique dimension to the exhibition. In addition, visitors will be able to experience authentic Kashmiri cuisine, making the event a complete cultural experience that blends art, taste, and tradition.

Through this initiative, Pumbuch Cultural Heritage Foundation continues its mission to revive dying art forms, support artisans, and create direct market linkages, ensuring that traditional crafts not only survive but also thrive in modern markets.

With its 4th edition in Srinagar, Rang-e-Kashmir is expected to attract a large number of tourists, local visitors, and cultural enthusiasts, making it a landmark event that celebrates the true identity and legacy of Jammu & Kashmir.

Greater Kashmir

Casco Cricket Tournament concludes in Shopian

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Casco Cricket Tournament concludes in Shopian

Department of Youth Services and Sports, District Shopian, successfully organised the final match of the Casco Cricket Tournament under the banner of the Nasha Mukti Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan.

The match, as per an official statement, was held at the YSS playfield Shirmal amid great enthusiasm, with active participation from players, officials, and a large number of spectators.

The final fixture was contested between MC Shopian and Block Chitragam. Both teams displayed remarkable discipline, teamwork, and competitive spirit, making the match engaging from start to finish.

In a closely fought contest, Block Chitragam emerged victorious, defeating MC Shopian to clinch the championship title.

The victory was celebrated with enthusiasm by players and supporters alike.

The event was graced by ADC Shopian Dr Zakir Hussain Faaz as Chief Guest. He appreciated the efforts of the participants and encouraged youth to actively engage in sports and constructive activities.

The winning team was led by BDO Chitragam, Tariq Ahmad Padder, whose leadership played an important role in the team’s success.

The tournament also served as a platform to promote the message of a drug free society under the Nasha Mukti Abhiyan.

Participants and attendees were sensitised about the harmful effects of substance abuse and the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle through sports.

The successful arrangement of the tournament highlights the vital role of sports in fostering discipline, unity, confidence, and social responsibility.

Greater Kashmir

The Mental Health Struggles Kashmir Isn’t Talking About

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The Mental Health Struggles Kashmir Isn’t Talking About

Srinagar, May 3: In many homes across Kashmir, the signs don’t arrive loudly. A student spends more time alone than before. Someone who once spoke freely now keeps the conversations short. Sleep patterns change, tempers rise, or everything goes unusually quiet. Most of the time, these shifts are dismissed as stress, mood, or just a phase.

But increasingly, they point to something deeper. Studies in the region suggest that over 40% of adults in the Valley show signs of psychological distress, with young people especially students facing rising levels of anxiety, depression, and stress.

“Mental health issues don’t suddenly appear,” said a Srinagar-based counselor. “They build slowly, and often in silence. By the time families notice, the person has already been dealing with it for a while.”Part of the difficulty lies in how these issues are understood. In many households, emotional distress is still expected to pass on its own with time, distraction, or faith. While these can offer comfort but professionals say that they are not always enough.

The pressures on young people have also changed. Social media, while offering connection, often brings comparison, disrupted sleep, and a constant sense of pressure. For many, it becomes a quiet escape rather than support.“It may look like they are just using their phones,” the counselor added, “but often they are trying to cope with something they cannot express.”

Despite this, seeking help remains difficult. Counseling is still misunderstood seen as something extreme rather than a normal way to understand one’s thoughts and emotions. Mental health workers say early support can make a significant difference. Even a few sessions can help individuals make sense of what they are feeling and prevent it from becoming overwhelming.

Across the Valley, helplines and counseling services have reported a steady rise in people reaching out, particularly students. Yet, many continue to hesitate. “Sometimes, all it takes is someone at home noticing and listening without judgement,” said another professional. “That can change everything.”

For families, the role is crucial. Experts suggest paying attention to small behavioural shifts withdrawal, irritability, loss of interest, or sudden changes in routine. More importantly, they stress creating a space where young people feel safe enough to speak. Mental health, they say, is not about weakness. It is about recognising when someone needs support.

In a region known for its resilience, the challenge today is quieter and more personal, unfolding in kitchens and bedrooms, often without being noticed. The signs are there, but they don’t always ask to be seen. The question is, who is paying attention?

Greater Kashmir

KTMF extends support to anti-drug drive

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KTMF extends support to anti-drug drive

Srinagar, May 3: The Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) on Sunday participated in the ‘Nasha Mukt J&K’ Pad Yatra 2026 organised by the administration at Lal Chowk, reaffirming its support to the ongoing anti-drug campaign.

A KTMF delegation joined the programme on the invitation of the administration and expressed solidarity with efforts aimed at tackling substance abuse. The delegation felicitated Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha by presenting flowers, appreciating his leadership in addressing the growing drug menace.
KTMF said the business community stands firmly behind initiatives to curb drug addiction, noting that youth form the backbone of the economy and the future workforce. It emphasised that a healthy, drug-free youth population is essential for sustainable economic growth and social stability.

The delegation underscored the need for collective responsibility involving government institutions, civil society and trade bodies to effectively address the issue. KTMF also assured full cooperation in awareness campaigns and community-level interventions aligned with the objectives of the ‘Nasha Mukt J&K’ initiative.

The delegation comprised Qazi Tauseef, Mohammad Yousuf Lori, Muzaffar Jan Wani and Sajad Ahmad, who represented the federation and conveyed the concerns and aspirations of the business fraternity.

Greater Kashmir

LG chairs high-level review meeting on Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan

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LG chairs high-level review meeting on Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan

Srinagar, May 3: Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, today chaired a high-level meeting at Lok Bhavan to review the progress of the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan and assessed the district-wise action plans aimed at eliminating drug- abuse and narco-terrorism.

The meeting was attended by Atal Dullo, Chief Secretary; Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary Home Department;  S.J.M.Gillani, Spl DG Coordination PHQ; Nitish Kumar, ADGP, CID; Dr. Mandeep K Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Sujit Kumar, IGP Security; Sarmad Hafeez, Commissioner/Secretary, Social Welfare Department; Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner/Secretary School Education Department; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; VK Birdi, IGP Kashmir; senior officials of civil and police administration, Deputy Commissioners and SSPs from Kashmir Division.

Reviewing the progress, the Lieutenant Governor underscored the need for a focused, time-bound and result-oriented strategy by all district administrations in the next 78-days. He directed the Officers to ensure effective implementation of the action at all levels with measurable outcomes in curbing drug abuse and dismantling narcotics networks.

The Lieutenant Governor called for intensified grassroots-level engagement at the Panchayat and Ward levels. He emphasised active participation of community stakeholders, including religious leaders, educationists, traders, youth groups, and social and political activists to transform the campaign into a sustained mass movement.

The Lieutenant Governor laid special emphasis on youth engagement through sports and recreational activities. He instructed the Deputy Commissioners to ensure the development of playfields in all panchayats and strengthening of sports infrastructure across districts.

He also directed to regularly organise sports competitions and youth engagement activities under the banner of the Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyaan, enabling young people to channel their energy and talent into positive pursuits and stay away from substance abuse.

Reiterating the administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards narcotics, the Lieutenant Governor called for strict and visible enforcement actions against those involved in drug trafficking.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasised swift implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for cancellation or suspension of driving licenses and passport and other documents of drug peddlers. He also called for prompt identification and seizure of properties linked to narco-terrorists and drug smugglers. He further stressed intensified inspection of pharmaceutical shops to prevent misuse of prescription drugs and also enhanced vigilance in and around educational institutions and vulnerable areas.

The Lieutenant Governor also directed Deputy Commissioners to identify and take appropriate action against the fake or unauthorized drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centres, ensuring that only certified institutions operate within the established regulatory framework.

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the importance of strengthening Mahila Samitis and Youth Clubs as vital community institutions in the fight against drug abuse. He called for their effective functioning and active involvement in awareness campaigns, early identification of vulnerable individuals, and community-based monitoring mechanisms.

He also directed for utilizing Block Diwas and Thana Diwas as platforms for addressing public grievances and strengthening trust between citizens and the administration.

The Lieutenant Governor further directed the officers to take advance and comprehensive measures for the smooth conduct of upcoming major religious events, including the annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra and Muharram. He emphasized the need to ensure adequate arrangements to facilitate the convenience and safety of the people.

Greater Kashmir

Army contingent leaves for India–Cambodia joint military exercise

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Army contingent leaves for India–Cambodia joint military exercise

New Delhi, May 3:  An Army contingent has departed for the second edition of the India–Cambodia bilateral military exercise, CINBAX-II, scheduled to be held in Cambodia from May 4 to May 17, 2026.

The exercise will take place at the Techo Sen Phnom Thom Mreas Provincial Royal Cambodian Air Force Training Centre (Camp Basil) in Kampong Speu province. It is being conducted as part of India’s ongoing defence cooperation with friendly countries and comes amid evolving global security challenges.

CINBAX-II will be held under the framework of Chapter VII of the United Nations mandate and will focus on company-level joint training for operations in a sub-conventional environment.

The Indian contingent comprises 120 personnel, primarily drawn from a battalion of the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment. The Cambodian side is represented by 160 personnel from the Royal Cambodian Army.

The exercise will centre on counter-terrorism operations typically faced by UN peacekeeping forces. Activities will include discussions, tactical drills and a final validation exercise. Troops will also undergo specialised training in areas such as drone operations, mortar handling and sniper tactics.

The primary aim is to improve interoperability, coordination and operational synergy between the two armies.

Officials said the exercise will also enable both sides to exchange best practices and share operational experience, particularly in semi-urban combat scenarios. CINBAX-II 2026 reflects the growing defence ties between India and Cambodia and is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations while enhancing cooperation in addressing regional security challenges.

Greater Kashmir

Government issues new guidelines for child health programme

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Government issues new guidelines for child health programme

New Delhi, May 3: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has released new guidelines for its child health programme, Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) 2.0, to improve healthcare services for children across the country. The updated programme was unveiled at a national summit on public healthcare and aims to strengthen early detection and treatment of health problems among children from birth to 18 years.

RBSK 2.0 builds on the existing “4Ds” approach: Defects at birth, Diseases, Deficiencies and Developmental delays, but now also includes new concerns such as mental health issues, behavioural problems and non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension.

Under the programme, children will continue to be screened through mobile health teams visiting Anganwadi centres and schools. The government has expanded the scope to cover more health conditions and ensure early identification.

The new guidelines also focus on better follow-up care. Children diagnosed with any condition will be referred to health facilities, and a tracking system will help ensure they receive proper treatment without delays.A major addition is the use of digital tools. The programme will introduce digital health cards and real-time data systems to track children’s health and improve service delivery.

The government said the updated framework also encourages coordination between the health, education, and women and child development departments to provide more comprehensive care. Officials believe RBSK 2.0 will help improve overall child health, reduce disease burden and ensure better growth and development for children nationwide.

Greater Kashmir

LPG deliveries steady; MT Sarv Shakti crosses Hormuz safely, UAE airspace reopens

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LPG deliveries steady; MT Sarv Shakti crosses Hormuz safely, UAE airspace reopens

New Delhi, May 03: 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 provided an update on the current fuel supply situation, outlining measures being taken to ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG in the context of the evolving situation in West Asia. It was noted that:

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 requested to make necessary efforts 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 supply 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 by Secretary, 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 1900 raids were conducted across the country.
  • PSU OMCs have strengthened and continued surprise inspections and imposed penalties on 349 LPG distributorships, and 74 LPG distributorships have been suspended 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 99% on industry basis yesterday.
  • Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) based deliveries have increased to around 94% to prevent diversion. DAC is received on the registered mobile number of the consumer.
  • On 02.05.2026, around 47 Lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered against bookings of around 47.4 Lakh LPG cylinders.

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 the month of April  2026, more than 23.44 Lakh – 5 Kg FTL cylinders have been sold.
  • Yesterday, more than 66,000 – 5 Kg FTL cylinders were delivered.
  • Since 3rd April 2026, PSU OMCs have organised more than 10,100 awareness camps for 5 Kg FTL Cylinders, wherein around 1,75,000 – 5Kg FTL cylinders were also sold.
  • Yesterday, 3778 – 5 Kg FTLs were sold through more than 130 camps.
  • A three-member committee of Executive Directors of IOCL, HPCL and BPCL, in consultation with State authorities and industry bodies finalises the plan for the sale of Commercial LPG in the States/UTs.
  • Since April-26, a total of 2,14,069 MT (Equivalent to more than 112.66 Lakh of 19 Kg LPG Cylinders) of Commercial LPG has been sold.
  • On 02.05.2026, about 8220 MT of Commercial LPG (Equivalent to more than 4.33 Lakh – 19 Kg cylinders) was sold.
  • Since April 2026, a total of 11082 MT of Auto LPG has been sold by PSU OMCs.

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 98% 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 6.04 Lakh PNG connections have been gasified and infrastructure has been created for additional 2.68 Lakh connections, taking the total to 8.72 lakh connections. Further, about 6.73 Lakh customers have been registered for new connections.
  • Till 02.05.2026, more than 43,630 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 10,600 MT of propylene and about 1400 MT of Butyl Acrylate has been sold by Mumbai, Kochi, Vizag, Chennai, Mathura and Gujarat refineries to Chemical, Pharma and Paint Industry.

Retail Fuel Availability and pricing Measures

  • All Retail outlets are operating normally across the country.
  • 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 30.04.2026 has reduced the export levy on diesel from Rs. 55.50 per litre to Rs. 23 per litre and on ATF from Rs. 42 per litre to Rs. 33 per litre.
  • 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

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has put in place necessary measures to safeguard Indian vessels and seafarers operating in the region. The Ministry stated that:

  • The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways continues to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions, and maritime stakeholders to ensure seafarer welfare and uninterrupted maritime operations.
  • Vessel Update: A Marshall Islands-flagged LPG carrier, MT Sarv Shakti (IMO No. 9350599), carrying 46,313 MT of LPG (Indian cargo), with 20 crew members onboard including 18 Indians, has safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz on 02 May 2026, and is expected to arrive at Visakhapatnam on 13 May 2026
  • All Indian seafarers in the region are safe, and no incident involving Indian-flagged vessels has been reported in the past 24 hours.
  • DG Shipping Control Room has handled 8,373 calls and more than 17,965 emails since activation. In the past 24 hours, 38 calls and 127 emails have been received.
  • The Ministry, through the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), has facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 2,953 Indian seafarers so far, including 31 in the last 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 focused efforts on ensuring safety, security and welfare of the Indian community in the region. It was informed that:

  • The Ministry of External Affairs is in regular contact with State Governments and Union Territories for sharing of information and better alignment of efforts.
  • Indian embassies and consulates continue to operate round-the-clock helplines to provide timely assistance and are proactively assisting our citizens. They are also in close contact with the local Governments.
  • Updated advisories are being issued including information related to local government guidelines, flight and travel situations, consular services and various welfare measures being undertaken for the community.
  • Indian Missions are actively engaged with the resident Indian community. They are regularly interacting with the Indian community associations, organizations, professional groups, and Indian companies to address their concerns.
  • Government is according high priority to the welfare of Indian seafarers in the region. Indian Missions are extending all assistance to them including coordination with the local authorities and agencies, extending consular assistance, and assisting for requests to return to India.
  • The overall flight situation continues to improve with additional flights operating from the region to various destinations in India.
  • On May 2, the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority announced full resumption of normal air navigation operations within UAE airspace and the lifting of temporary precautionary measures. Indian and UAE carriers are operating flights from UAE to various destinations in India.
  • Flights continue to operate from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to various destinations in India.
  • Qatar airspace is partially open. Air India, Air India Express, Indigo and Qatar Airways are operating flights from Qatar to various destinations in India.
  • Kuwait airspace is open. Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways are operating flights from Kuwait to India.
  • BBahrain airspace is open. Air India Express, Indigo and Gulf Air are 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. We have advised Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Iran and urged those already there to leave via land border routes, with our Embassy’s support. So far, our Embassy in Tehran has facilitated movement of 2,504 Indian nationals out of Iran through land border routes.
  • 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

Union Minister of Education assesses arrangements

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Union Minister of Education assesses arrangements

New Delhi, May 03: Union Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan visited the headquarters of the National Testing Agency (NTA) to assess the on-ground conduct for the NEET UG 2026 examination held today.

During the visit, the Minister oversaw key operational aspects including examination logistics, coordination with the centres, and monitoring systems put in place to conduct the test seamlessly across the country. Officials briefed him on measures taken to handle the large number of candidates and maintain discipline at examination venues.

The NEET UG 2026 examination was conducted by the National Testing Agency for nearly 23 lakh registered candidates. The test was held at centres across the country under strict protocols.

NEET UG continues to be one of the largest undergraduate entrance examinations in India. It serves as the gateway for admission to MBBS, BDS, and other allied medical programmes across institutions in the country.

Greater Kashmir

Voices being systematically silenced in Kashmir: Mehraj Malik

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Voices being systematically silenced in Kashmir: Mehraj Malik

Jammu, May 03: Days after the Jammu and Kashmir High Court set aside his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Doda (East), Mehraj Malik, on Sunday alleged that the Kashmir Valley is in a “bad state” where voices are being “systematically silenced.”

Addressing a public gathering in Doda following his release, MLA Malik as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) claimed that only “one class, one area, one constituency” gets attention in the Union Territory, while dissent is being crushed across the rest of the region.

“We have always seen what is happening in Kashmir. Voices are being silenced. Is it not necessary that the air flows through these mountains? It will flow,” Malik said without directly naming the Centre or the Lieutenant Governor.

The MLA, who was detained under the stringent PSA last year, narrated the story of a 70-year-old man from Kunj to illustrate the climate of fear prevailing in the Valley.

“He speaks the truth. He raises the mistakes of the government. But there is no one to listen to him. Neither the people of the house nor the people of the area will listen to him,” Malik said.

He further alleged that the youth in Kashmir understand the situation but are afraid to speak openly. “The young man knows. His heart says. His mind says. But he is afraid to speak. You need courage to speak,” he told the gathering.

MLA Malik drew a parallel between the Union Territory and the national capital, where his party is locked in a bitter tussle with the LG’s office, suggesting that suppression of voices is not limited to Kashmir alone.

He urged the people, especially the youth, to bring the change. “Change depends on you,” he said.

Greater Kashmir

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