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Buddha’s message is a light for humanity: LG

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Buddha’s message is a light for humanity: LG

New Delhi, Oct 19: The Indian Delegation led by Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, departed Elista, Republic of Kalmykia, Russia today with the holy relics of Lord Buddha. The holy relics, recognised as a National Treasure of India, were brought to Kalmykia for a week-long exposition from October 11 to 18. The exposition aimed to strengthen people-to-people ties and celebrate shared Buddhist heritage was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the National Museum, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).

During a ceremony at the Central Temple, also known as “the Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni”, the Lieutenant Governor addressed revered monks and devotees and observed that the holy relics will return to India, but Lord Buddha’s enduring presence in Kalmykia will continue to guide the seekers for their own awakening.

“The exposition of holy relics has deepened the spiritual connection, and the mindfulness will always serve as a source of peace, ideals and inspiration for future generations. The last week has been historic and filled with blessings for devotees and the people of Kalmykia. It has brought the joy and spiritual fulfilment,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor called for building a world full of kindness, just, free of all discrimination and rooted in wisdom to support the well-being of all.

“We must build a world full of kindness. We must build a world rooted in wisdom and free from suffering. We must build an awakened and peaceful world in which people care for others and support the well-being of all. We must build a just world in which the humanity upholds the moral integrity for equality and fairness. We must build a world free of all discrimination and biases. We must build a world in which humanity lives in harmony with the nature. And, I strongly believe Buddha’s teachings will provide the humanity a roadmap in this direction,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

In his address at the Central Temple, the Lieutenant Governor states that the cultural and spiritual exchange between India and Russia remains one of the highest priorities.

“It is based on our shared belief in the enduring values of peace, spiritual ethos and compassionate living,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He also observed that in today’s fast-paced world, Buddha’s message is like a source of light for humanity.

“His teachings on compassion, non-violence and pure mind can bridge the divide and foster universal brotherhood. Spiritual salvation is the greatest treasure that is possible for human beings. This is what India, the land of Lord Buddha taught the world,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He called upon the seekers to follow the teachings of Buddha and search for truth without any desire.

“Lord Buddha taught us that spiritual experience cannot be a borrowed experience, but it has to be existential. Buddha taught us that life is all about search for truth without any desire. Be a Light unto Yourself- look within as the light and pure awareness is within you,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

 

 

 

 

Greater Kashmir

J&K Bank’s rehabilitation package aims to ease economic fallout of post-Pahalgam disturbances

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J&K Bank’s rehabilitation package aims to ease economic fallout of post-Pahalgam disturbances

Srinagar, Oct 19: J&K Bank’s Rehabilitation Package is being implemented across the Union Territory to support borrowers affected by the disturbances that followed the Pahalgam incident.

The bank has designed the package to provide relief to individuals, small traders, and enterprises that have been severely impacted by disruptions, aiming to restore liquidity, financial stability, and business continuity in the region.

The decision to roll out the package comes in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, in which 26 tourists, including a local guide, were killed by terrorists in Baisaran, Pahalgam, on April 22. The tragic incident triggered a strong response from the Government of India, which launched military action against Pakistan in retaliation. In the aftermath of the attack and the subsequent escalation, Kashmir’s economy suffered a sharp downturn.

Tourism, the mainstay of the Valley’s economy, came to a standstill as travel advisories were issued, bookings were cancelled, and security restrictions tightened. Hotels, transport operators, houseboat owners, and small businesses dependent on tourism continue to face losses, with the sector yet to see a full revival months after the incident.

Speaking to Greater Kashmir, Chief General Manager (Credit) J&K Bank, Rakesh Magrota, said the rehabilitation initiative was structured in line with the RBI’s master circular that prescribes specific guidelines for providing relief in areas affected by natural calamities or disturbances.

He explained that a government notification declaring the affected areas as “disturbance-affected” is a mandatory precondition under the RBI framework. Only after such a declaration can banks legally implement relief and rehabilitation measures for borrowers in those areas.

“When this happened, most of our businesses remained under stress. The government proactively decided that we should come up with a package. We took it up with the government and the Reserve Bank of India, and subsequently, a notification was issued by the government on August 8,” he said.

“As per the RBI procedures, such measures are initiated only when the UT or state government declares an area affected by natural calamities or disturbances. Following that declaration, a committee was set up by the UTLBC comprising J&K Bank, State Bank of India, and Punjab National Bank. J&K designed the package in the best interest of our stakeholders—covering tourism stakeholders, rural artisans, traders, and MSMEs.”

The Chief General Manager explained that the package was designed to address both the repayment burden and the liquidity stress faced by borrowers. Under the rehabilitation plan, borrowers can avail repayment relief through the extension of existing term loans, with or without a moratorium. Any unpaid or accrued interest on outstanding loans will be converted into a Funded Interest Term Loan (FITL), allowing customers to spread their repayment over time. In addition, borrowers can access up to 15 percent additional working capital through a Working Capital Term Loan (WCTL) to help revive operations and sustain employment. A moratorium period from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, has also been announced to provide financial breathing space for recovery.

Both FITL and WCTL will be repayable over 36 months after the moratorium, ensuring a gradual repayment schedule. The interest rate for both facilities has been capped at 8.45 percent per annum, which the bank described as highly customer-friendly. “There was stress on liquidity, and that has been taken care of through conversion of interest into FITL, a moratorium on repayments, and an extension of existing repayment schedules by another nine months to a year. There’s also additional working capital up to 15% of existing limits, and the interest rate is very customer-friendly—capped at 8.45%,” the Chief General Manager said.

He added that as per the RBI’s framework, the implementation window for such rehabilitation packages remains open for 90 days from the date of the government’s notification. “The RBI’s framework clearly mentions a 90-day window from the date of declaration. We observed initially that traction was low—perhaps because people were taking time to decide—but we decided to popularise the package further so that more affected individuals could come forward, stabilise their livelihoods, and revive economic confidence,” he said.

The bank has also made provisions to upgrade downgraded but eligible accounts once the rehabilitation measures are implemented, thereby restoring the credit standing of borrowers whose accounts were affected by the post-disturbance slowdown.

The Chief General Manager emphasised that the overarching objective of the package is to ensure financial stability and business continuity for all affected enterprises across Jammu and Kashmir.

“Our aim is to provide financial stability and ensure business continuity for all affected enterprises. This package represents a unique alignment between the bank, the government, and the RBI—all working on the same page to support our people,” he said.

The benefits of the Rehabilitation Package 2025 will be available only if implemented on or before November 5.  J&K Bank has advised borrowers to contact their nearest branches for assistance and to complete formalities within the stipulated time. The bank has also initiated awareness efforts through customer communication channels to ensure wider participation.

Greater Kashmir

Samiullah Beigh praises J&K’s fight, calls for more positive mindset

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Samiullah Beigh praises J&K’s fight, calls for more positive mindset

Srinagar, Oct 19: Former Jammu & Kashmir skipper and seasoned pacer Samiullah Beigh praised J&K’s overall effort against Mumbai in their Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season opener but expressed disappointment over the team’s approach in the final innings, saying that the top order failed to capitalise on a good wicket and played “too much in their shell.”

Speaking to Greater Kashmir after J&K’s narrow loss at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium, Beigh said the match was well within reach, but the batting lacked the fluency required in a chase.

“J&K played exceedingly well. It is not easy to chase 240-odd in the last innings, but the wicket had no demons. The top order should have scored substantial runs. If the first four or five batsmen had taken us to 150, the game would have been much more comfortable,” Beigh said.

He felt that the team fell short by about 20–25 runs, which proved decisive.

“They didn’t express their strokes. They were a bit too defensive. Cricket rewards positive intent. If the last two players could play with that approach alongside Auqib Nabi, the result might have been different,” he added.

Beigh said J&K bowled well initially but lost their grip after the lunch and tea sessions, which allowed Mumbai to reach 386, around 40–50 runs extra, which ultimately became crucial,” he said.

On individual performances, Beigh highlighted both promise and inconsistency within the squad. He praised Yudhvir Singh and Auqib Nabi for their effort but felt the batting unit lacked continuation.

Beigh, however, cautioned against making hasty changes after just one game.

“The players are good. I don’t believe in changing the team after one match. What is needed is a positive mindset. Playing in a shell never helps. You have to express yourself,” Beigh said.

The former pacer, who has been a key figure in J&K’s cricketing structure, also backed Umran Malik and the region’s strong pace legacy.

“J&K has always been a pacer-rich side. Umran was on the sidelines this game, but he will be back. Auqib and Yudhvir are performing well. We have the bench strength,” he added confidently.

J&K prepare for their next Ranji outing against Rajasthan from 25 Oct to 28 Oct 2025 at SK Stadium in Srinagar, and it will be the second game in a row for them at their home ground.

 

 

Greater Kashmir

NC bets on Aga Syed Mehmood to retain Budgam

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NC bets on Aga Syed Mehmood to retain Budgam

Srinagar, Oct 19: Ending days of speculation, the National Conference (NC) on Sunday announced Agha Syed Mehmood as its candidate for the Budgam assembly by-election, scheduled to be held on November 11.

The announcement, made late Sunday evening, followed intense deliberations within the party over several potential names.

“On the directions of the party leadership, NC has announced Aga Syed Mehmood as the party’s candidate for the upcoming Budgam Assembly election. The party extends best wishes to him for a successful campaign in the service of the people of Budgam,” the NC said in a post on the microblogging site ‘X’.

Party insiders said Aga Mehmood will file his nomination papers on Monday, the last date for submitting nominations.

Meanwhile, the PDP has announced Agha Syed Muntazir as its candidate.

Muntazir had contested against Omar Abdullah in the 2024 Assembly elections but lost by a margin of over 18,000 votes.

“PDP’s Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi will file his nomination papers for the Budgam assembly by-election tomorrow at 12 noon,” a PDP spokesman said.

The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) has fielded Nazir Ahmad, while a few independents are also expected to enter the race, making the by-poll a multi-cornered affair.

The Budgam by-election is the first major political test for the NC since returning to power last year.

What was initially seen as a routine contest has turned into a significant measure of the party’s grassroots strength, internal unity, and its ability to defend its traditional bastion.

The by-poll was necessitated after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah vacated the Budgam seat while retaining Ganderbal.

The constituency, held by the NC continuously since 1996, has long been influenced by the Aga Syed family’s political clout.

However, shifting loyalties, local grievances, and rising political competition have added an unpredictable edge to the upcoming poll.

Budgam’s political history reflects the NC’s deep roots, occasionally challenged by the PDP’s brief surges.

In the 2024 election, Omar Abdullah secured victory with a margin of 18,485 votes over PDP’s Aga Muntazir Mehdi, even as voter turnout slipped to just above 52 percent, a signal of both enduring party loyalty and local discontent over unfulfilled promises.

The Budgam constituency, with a voter base of around 1.26 lakh, holds a pivotal place in central Kashmir’s political landscape.

Spread across both urban and rural belts, the constituency reflects a diverse mix of traditional loyalties and shifting aspirations.

District authorities have set up 173 polling stations and launched awareness drives to encourage voter participation, particularly among first-time voters.

Security agencies have described Budgam as “sensitive but manageable,” with area mapping, deployment planning, and confidence-building patrols already underway to ensure smooth and peaceful polling.

With the NC banking on legacy and organisational muscle, and the PDP hoping to capitalise on emerging discontent, the November 11 by-poll is shaping up to be a defining political contest for central Kashmir.

 

 

 

Greater Kashmir

Police arrest 2 drug peddlers in Baramulla & Kulgam

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Pakistani intruder arrested along LoC in J&K’s Poonch

Srinagar, Oct 19: Jammu and Kashmir Police have arrested two drug peddlers and recovered contraband substances from their possession.

A police spokesperson said that a police party at a checkpoint established at Shajimarg–Qazipora Road near Biscoe School arrested a drug peddler identified as Bilal Ahmad Bhat, son of Gh Nabi Bhat, resident of Gutlipora Tangmarg. During search, 20 grams of Charas-like substance was recovered from their possession. Accordingly, a case vide FIR No. 76/2025 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Tangmarg and investigation has been initiated.

Meanwhile in Kulgam, a police party led by IC PP Mirbazar during naka checking at Furrah Bypass Mirbazar, intercepted a suspicious person identified as Nadeem Manzoor Naikoo, son of Manzoor Ahmad Naikoo, resident of Pati Akhran, Nowpora carrying a bag. During search, Poppy Straw weighing 2.050 kgs like substance was recovered from his possession.

Police reiterated its firm resolve to eliminate the drug menace from society and appealed to the citizens to come forward with any information regarding drug peddling or other unlawful activities.

Greater Kashmir

Two drug peddling networks busted in Jammu, 4 women among 8 held

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3 drug peddlers held with 22 gm heroin worth lakhs in J-K's Udhampur

Jammu, Oct 19: The Jammu police have busted two major drug peddling networks and arrest of eight peddlers, including four women, along with heroin worth crores of rupees, an official said on Sunday.

Jammu Senior Superintendent of Police Joginder Singh said the drug peddling gangs were busted in Rajiv Nagar and R S Pura areas of Jammu following investigation of separate cases.

With this, over 18 drug peddlers including some residents of Punjab who were living here as tenants were arrested in the past few weeks, dealing a severe blow to organised crime.

He said notorious drug peddler Vishal Kumar, a resident of Rajiv Nagar, was arrested along with 275 grams of heroin and an electronic weighing machine.

His questioning led to the arrest of Reena and recovery of 55 grams of heroin, weighing machine and Rs 33,490 from her house in Rajiv Nagar, he said, adding their three more women associates — Sheetal, Payal and Kajal — were also arrested and 13 grams of heroin, two weighing machines and Rs 3050 were seized from them.

In another drug bust, Singh said three drug peddlers — Inderjeet and Vishal Kumar of Punjab and Jagdish Raj — were arrested from Chak Talab area of R S Pura. 186 grams of heroin was seized from them.

Greater Kashmir

Tribal leader from Kokernag Choudhary Haroon quits PDP

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Tribal leader from Kokernag Choudhary Haroon quits PDP

Srinagar, Oct 19: A tribal leader from Kokernag area of south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, Choudhary Haroon Khatana resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Talking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Khatana said he has resigned due to certain “wrong decisions” taken by the party.

“Yes, I have resigned from the party due to some wrong decisions by the PDP which were not in the interest of the people of my area,” he told KNO.

Khatana said, “Currently, I don’t have any intention to join any other party, but I will decide the future course of action at an appropriate time.”

The Kokernag Assembly segment in Anantnag district has been reserved for the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category following the recent delimitation exercise.

Notably, the PDP had recently appointed tribal leader Choudhary Talib as the Kokernag constituency in-charge, a decision that reportedly left several party workers associated with Haroon Khatana disappointed.

Greater Kashmir

Fully prepared for Diwali festivities, Darbar Move: Jammu Police

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Fully prepared for Diwali festivities, Darbar Move: Jammu Police

Jammu, Oct 19: Senior Superintendent of Police Joginder Singh said on Sunday said that Jammu police are fully prepared to ensure peaceful Diwali celebrations and the smooth reopening of government offices under the Darbar Move next month.

As per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC Singh said, urged public cooperation to prevent any attempts by enemy forces to disturb the city’s peaceful atmosphere, adding that Jammu has faced terrorism and infiltration threats for decades.

“All necessary measures have been taken for security during the festival and for the Darbar Move. The support of the people is crucial to maintain peace,” Singh said.

He also urged landlords to complete tenant verification forms for migrant workers and reminded citizens to report unclaimed objects in public areas.

The Darbar Move, a tradition reintroduced by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah after being scrapped in 2021, will likely see increased footfall in Jammu this winter.

Singh reassured that Army, BSF, police, and paramilitary forces are on high alert to safeguard the city, but emphasized that public vigilance remains essential.

Greater Kashmir

NMC approves 10,650 new MBBS seats, 41 new medical colleges for 2024-25

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Govt bans 6 doctors for private practice during duty hours, unethical referrals

New Delhi, Oct 19: In a significant move aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pledge on Independence Day 2024 to create 75,000 new medical seats over five years, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has approved 10,650 new MBBS seats for the academic year 2024-25.

This increase is part of a broader strategy to enhance the availability of medical education in India.

The addition of 41 new medical colleges has also brought the total number of medical institutions in the country to 816. According to NMC Chief Dr Abhijat Sheth, out of the 170 applications received for expanding undergraduate (UG) seats, comprising 41 from government colleges and 129 from private institutions, a total of 10,650 MBBS seats have been approved.

This will raise the overall MBBS seat count to 1,37,600 for the 2024-25 academic year, including seats in Institutes of National Importance (INI).

For postgraduate (PG) courses, the NMC has received over 3,500 applications for new and renewed seats.For postgraduate (PG) courses, the NMC has received over 3,500 applications for new and renewed seats.

Dr Sheth stated that the commission expects an increase of around 5,000 PG seats, taking the total to 67,000 PG seats nationwide. The overall increase in both UG and PG seats this year will be approximately 15,000.

While the final approval process and counselling have experienced some delays, officials have assured that these procedures will be completed within the prescribed timelines.

A blueprint detailing the schedule for accreditation, examinations, and seat matrix approvals for the upcoming academic year will be published soon. Additionally, the portal for 2025-26 applications is set to open in early November.

Notably, Dr Sheth highlighted that this year marks the first time in recent history that all appeals against the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) decisions were resolved without any court interventions.

In an effort to enhance the quality of medical education, Dr Sheth also announced that the NMC is exploring the integration of clinical research into the mainstream medical curriculum.

Plans are underway for a collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to strengthen research infrastructure and promote clinical research in medical education.

The NMC’s efforts are seen as a step towards improving medical education capacity in the country, in line with the government’s vision of expanding healthcare infrastructure and addressing the growing demand for medical professionals.

Greater Kashmir

Israel launches air strikes in Gaza, accuses Hamas of violations of ceasefire

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Israeli strikes kill 19 Palestinians in Gaza, including senior Hamas political leader, officials say

New Delhi, Oct 19: Israel has carried out air strikes in southern Gaza, accusing Hamas of “multiple attacks” against its forces in what it called a “bold violation of the ceasefire,” according to a report by the BBC. An Israeli military spokesman said the attacks occurred “beyond the yellow line”, the area from which Israeli troops have withdrawn under Phase One of the US-brokered ceasefire deal, part of President Donald Trump’s plan to end the two-year Gaza war.

Hamas denied the accusations, insisting it remains committed to the ceasefire and instead accused Israel of “repeated violations.” The ceasefire, in effect since 10 October, led to the release of all surviving Israeli hostages, as well as the return of bodies of the deceased. In exchange, Israel freed 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,718 detainees from Gaza.

The latest Israeli strikes in Rafah came hours after the US State Department warned it had “credible reports” that Hamas was planning an “imminent attack on civilians in Gaza” — something Washington said would be a “direct and grave” breach of the ceasefire. The US said it had alerted other guarantors of the peace deal, including Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, and urged Hamas to uphold its commitments. “Should Hamas proceed with this attack, measures will be taken to protect the people of Gaza and preserve the integrity of the ceasefire,” the State Department said.

Hamas dismissed the warning as “false propaganda,” accusing Israel of arming rival groups inside Gaza to destabilize its rule. It has reportedly recalled about 7,000 security personnel to reassert control amid growing lawlessness and clashes with armed factions such as the Dughmush family and Abu Shabab’s Popular Forces.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) still control more than half of Gaza, having withdrawn to the “Yellow Line” under the Trump plan. Reports suggest criminal gangs have looted aid convoys in Israeli-held areas, operating with near impunity.

President Trump, in a recent post on Truth Social, warned: “If Hamas continues to kill people in Gaza, which was not the Deal, we will have no choice but to go in and kill them,” later clarifying that he would not send US troops into the region. Analysts warn that the renewed violence risks derailing the fragile truce, which had brought the first significant pause in the Gaza conflict in nearly two years.

Greater Kashmir

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