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Katra, December 17: The Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya, today felicitated Para Archer Payal Nag of the SMVD Sports Complex for her commendable participation and noteworthy performance in the Asian Youth Para Games held in Dubai, UAE, from December 7 to 14, 2025.

Payal Nag, hailing from Odisha and trained at the SMVD Sports Complex, Katra for the past about three years, represented India in the Compound U‑21 Women Open category, competing against leading para archers from across Asia. Her poised and determined performance underscored the growing capabilities and emerging promise of para archery at the SMVD Sports Complex on the international platform. Though she narrowly missed a podium finish, her participation and overall display were highly praiseworthy and motivating.

Ms. Abhilasha Chaudhary, Archery Coach of the Shrine Board, who accompanied the Indian Para Archery contingent during the championship, was appreciated for her dedicated contribution to the sport and her role in mentoring young athletes.

The Chief Executive Officer presented Mata Ka Prasad to the sportsperson as a gesture of divine blessings and appreciation. He commended her unwavering spirit and conveyed his best wishes for her future endeavours in national and international events.

The CEO further reiterated that the Shrine Board, under the visionary guidance of Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Chairman, SMVDSB (Lieutenant Governor, J&K‑UT), remains committed to empowering youth and providing a strong platform for nurturing sporting excellence. He emphasized that the SMVD Sports Complex is being developed as a Centre of Excellence and encouraged sportspersons to make optimal use of the state‑of‑the‑art facilities available.

Also present on the occasion were Shri Satish Kumar Sharma Jt. Chief Executive Office; Shri Dhruv Gupta, Asstt. Chief Executive Officer and the concerned Coach from the SMVD Sports Complex.

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Emphasizes transparent, efficient, citizen centric governance

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 17: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, today conducted an extensive inspection of the Regional Transport Office (RTO), Srinagar to review its functioning and assess the quality of public service delivery.

During the visit, the Minister took stock of various services being provided to the general public including issuance of driving licences, vehicle registrations and other transport-related facilities. He interacted with the officers and staff of the department and sought feedback on operational challenges and public grievances.

Emphasizing transparent, efficient and citizen-centric governance, the Minister directed the officers to ensure time-bound delivery of services and maintain a hassle-free environment for the public. He stressed the need for strengthening the digital systems to minimise delays and enhance accountability in transport services.

The Minister also underlined the importance of courteous behavior towards the citizens. He instructed the officials to address the public grievances promptly while adhering strictly to the set rules and procedures.

RTO Kashmir Qazi Irfan, ARTOs  and other senior officers of the Transport Department were present at the time of visit.

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Lionel Messi participates in Maha Aarti during visit to Vantara in Gujarat

Global football superstar Lionel Messi recently visited Vantara, the wildlife rescue and conservation center in Jamnagar, Gujarat, founded by Anant Ambani. During his visit, Messi participated in traditional Hindu cultural practices and learned about the facility's extensive conservation efforts.

The visit, which took place on December 16, saw the Argentinian icon hosted by Anant Ambani, son of Mukesh Ambani. He was reportedly joined by teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul for the unique cultural and environmental tour.

Focus on Conservation and Culture

A primary focus of the visit was Vantara's work in wildlife conservation. Messi engaged in discussions with Anant Ambani about the center's mission to rescue and rehabilitate animals. The event highlighted a blend of global sportsmanship with local tradition and environmental stewardship.

A significant part of the experience involved Messi's participation in traditional Hindu rituals. Reports and images from the visit show him taking part in a Maha Aarti, a revered Hindu ceremony of worship. This gesture was in line with the cultural ethos of the center and offered the football star a glimpse into local traditions.

Details of the Visit

The event was documented across various social media platforms, showing Messi and his teammates at the Ambani-led facility. Key activities during their time at Vantara included:

  • Observing wildlife up close within the conservation center.
  • Participating in a traditional Aarti ceremony.
  • Engaging directly with Anant Ambani on the subject of wildlife conservation.

The visit underscores a growing intersection of global personalities showing interest in India's cultural and environmental initiatives. Vantara, founded by Anant Ambani, has positioned itself as a major center for animal welfare, and this high-profile visit brings international attention to its work.


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JAMMU, DECEMBER 17: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today inaugurated multiple road projects worth Rs. 10.27 crore in various areas of Bhalwal in Jammu district.

The Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by Chairman DDC Jammu, Bharat Bhushan and MLA Nagrota, Devyani Rana.

During the tour, the Deputy Chief Minister inaugurated the newly constructed 2.50-km road at New Bridge Julee Simbliwala. He also inaugurated a 1.10-km road at Dharam Khoo connecting Phagwari, Kamyara, Magotra and Mohalla Nallah Wallah in Lower Gharota, Jammu.

Similarly, the Deputy Chief Minister inaugurated a 1.25-km link road from Bhera to Sobka via Mohalla Khajuria, Lower Gharota, Jammu. He also inaugurated a 2.50-km road project from Lift Irrigation Batera to Behra Panchayat Ghar, Lower Gharota, Bhalwal.

Later, the Deputy Chief Minister visited Lower Amb, Bhalwal, where he inaugurated a 22-metre span double-lane through-type plate girder bridge over the Ranbir Canal.

Terming these projects crucial for hassle-free connectivity, the Deputy Chief Minister said the construction of these roads would significantly enhance the accessibility and help upgrade the livelihoods of the people in the area. He added that the completion of these projects has fulfilled long-pending demands of the local population.

The Deputy Chief Minister directed the concerned departments to expedite the completion of all other ongoing developmental works in Bhalwal.

He reiterated that the Government is fully committed to ensuring seamless connectivity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

During the tour, various public deputations met the Deputy Chief Minister and expressed gratitude for his close monitoring of developmental works and timely completion of projects in the area. The locals also raised several issues and demands.

The Deputy Chief Minister gave them a patient hearing and assured that all genuine issues would be taken up for speedy redressal. He said the Government remains committed to timely completion of all ongoing projects, including those pending for years across Jammu and Kashmir.

Engineer in Chief, R&B Rajesh Gupta, Executive Engineer R&B Division, Nagrota, Dardar Khan and other senior officers of the concerned department also accompanied the Deputy Chief Minister during the tour.

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J&K ideal destination for Adventure Tourism: CM

Commends ATOAI for supporting J&K Tourism, Appreciates resilience of J&K’s Tourism players

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 17: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today addressed the 17th Annual Convention of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) at the Sher-i- Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), emphasising that Jammu and Kashmir is ideally placed as a destination for adventure tourism activities.

The 4-day national event being held in Srinagar from December 17 to 20, 2025, is aimed at positioning Jammu & Kashmir as a leading global destination for adventure tourism.


The event was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah, Additional Secretary & DG Tourism Government of India Suman Billa, GoC 31 Sub Area, Major General Abhijit Mitra, President ATOAI, Ajeet Bajaj, Head J&K Chapter ATOAI Rauf Tramboo, Director Tourism Kashmir Qamar Sajad, Director SKICC Haris Ahmad Handoo, Director Tourism Jammu, Dr. Vikas Gupta, former Directors of Tourism Mehmood Ahmad Shah and G N Itoo and other senior officers of Police and Civil Administration, Tourism Department, besides ATOAI delegates and large number of adventure tourism lovers, ATOAI officials and other stakeholders.

Addressing the inaugural session of the ATOAI convention, the Chief Minister lauded the efforts of ATOAI for organizing its 17th Annual Convention at Srinagar, aimed at promoting responsible, safe, sustainable & resilient adventure tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir has remained pioneer in adventure tourism notably, in skiing mountaineering, trekking etc all across the globe.

Chief Minister emphasised that technology integration is essential to promote and realise advanced adventure tourism potential in Jammu and Kashmir. He laid stress on introducing artificial snow so as to start skiing early and to prolong duration of skiing calender in Gulmarg which would also help in mitigating the effects of climate change resulting in lesser and delayed snowfalls.

The Chief Minister underlined that the Jammu and Kashmir Government is taking all necessary measures to ensure the continued growth of the tourism sector despite challenges faced during the current season. He also appreciated the leadership of ATOAI for providing Jammu and Kashmir an opportunity to host the prestigious national convention.

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Union Tourism Minister for extending unwavering support to the tourism sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

CM said that climate change and global warming were real issues which need to be talked about and we need to take steps to conserve our environment for posterity. He said that we won't be able to showcase Gulmarg without snow and our glaciers have also started receding at an alarming rate.

CM said that white water rafting, mountaineering, trekking, paragliding, rock climbing are key adventure tourism activities which can be promoted but cautioned operators to ensure high standards of safety and quality equipment to make adventure tourism safe and comfortable. He said that adventure tourism opens up new avenues of tourism in J&K and expressed hope that partnering with ATOAI will help to develop this sector in Jammu and Kashmir.

During the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister launched the Adventure Tourism Roadmap and Toolkit for Jammu and Kashmir and presented ATOAI Awards to achievers in the field of adventure tourism.

Earlier, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Adventure Tourism Exhibition at SKICC and inspected various stalls set up by different states across the country. He also participated in a hot air balloon ride, marking a symbolic push towards promoting diverse adventure tourism activities in Jammu and Kashmir.

On the occasion, ATOAI President Ajeet Bajaj presented a piece of stone, collected from the summit of Mount Everest as a special souvenir to CM Omar Abdullah

Towards the end of the inaugural function, the Chief Minister presented and felicitated the awardees, including recipients of the ATOAI Awards, the Adventure Tourism Leadership Award, and Special Recognition by the Chief Guest. On the occasion, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also launched the J&K Adventure Tourism Roadmap.

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SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 17: With a view to further strengthen and streamline the implementation of its flagship High Density Plantation (HDP) Scheme, J&K Bank today organised an interactive session with Private Enterprises (PEs), at it's corporate headquarters, to seek first-hand feedback and enhance coordination among key stakeholders. Pertinently, the Private Enterprises (PEs) are responsible for providing plantation material and carrying out high-density plantations on the ground.

The session was chaired by General Manager (Retail, Agriculture & MSME) Rakesh Magotra and was attended by Deputy General Manager Aneet Kanwal Singh, representatives of Private Enterprises and senior officers of the Bank. Cluster Heads from across the region joined the deliberations through video conferencing, ensuring wider participation and alignment at the field level.

The interactive meet was aimed at streamlining communication between the Bank’s Cluster Offices and Private Enterprises to ensure smooth and effective implementation of the High Density Plantation Scheme on the ground. Emphasising the importance of stakeholder collaboration, the Bank designated two officers as Nodal Officers for the scheme, who will act as single-point contacts to inform, guide, clarify and handhold the Private Enterprises and farmers during various stages of implementation.

The Bank also decided to organise joint awareness and facilitation camps along with the PE's at cluster and zonal levels to sensitise farmers about the significant benefits of the High Density Plantation Scheme and to promote wider adoption of the initiative.

Addressing the participants, GM Rakesh Magotra said, “Our ultimate goal is the growth of the economy, and J&K Bank sees immense potential in the High Density Plantation Scheme. If implemented in its true spirit, Kashmir can even emerge as one of the largest apple-producing regions in the world.”

He further emphasised the need for collective efforts, stating, “It is important for all stakeholders to work in tandem to expedite high density plantations on the ground and bring the desired transformation. We believe in a multi-stakeholder approach and welcome inputs and feedback from all concerned to further strengthen the scheme.”

Highlighting the critical role of Private Enterprises, he added, “Private Enterprises are the important stakeholders and key drivers of the High Density Plantation initiative, as they are working tirelessly at the grassroots level to make the scheme a success.” Assuring them of the Bank’s continued support, he reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to facilitate smooth execution of the scheme.

During the session, GM Rakesh Magotra gave a patient hearing to the concerns and suggestions raised by the Private Enterprises and assured them that the feedback would be duly considered to make the implementation of the High Density Plantation Scheme more efficient, farmer-friendly and impactful.

Earlier, while initiating the deliberations DGM Aneet Kanwal Singh said, “The High Density Plantation Scheme is a transformative initiative for J&K’s horticulture sector, and close coordination with Private Enterprises is vital to translate its objectives into tangible outcomes on the ground.

The Private Enterprises appreciated the Bank’s proactive initiative and expressed their willingness to work in close coordination with the Bank’s clusters and branches for successful implementation of the scheme.

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The world is experiencing transformative changes driven by cutting-edge technologies and schools must focus on using new tools to aid creativity, curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills: LG

Schools should have a single aim-create unique individuals for future challenges: LG Sinha

JAMMU, DECEMBER 10: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha on Wednesday called upon the schools and educational institutions to have a single aim: “Create unique individuals for future challenges”.

“The world is experiencing transformative changes driven by cutting-edge technologies and schools must focus on using new tools to aid creativity, curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He was speaking at the 40th Anniversary celebration of Lawrence Public School at Abhinav Theatre in Jammu.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor applauded the legacy, enduring values and efforts of Lawrence Public School to holistic learning and shaping modern leaders. He said the school carrying forward its core values has produced successful alumni, who are proudly serving the nation.

The Lieutenant Governor said the critical thinking and curiosity is the greatest strength of students. He urged the teachers and parents to allow students to study based on their interests, passions, and abilities to develop talent without pressure.



“Educational Institutions must pay special attention to four key aspects: Access, Equity, Quality, and Outcome. The dual goals for educators are to make students college-ready and future-ready and to familiarize them with continuously evolving skill sets, transforming them into 21st-century global citizens,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that the introduction of Artificial Intelligence will revolutionize the classroom, enabling teachers to use data analysis to understand student abilities and provide better mentoring.

He said, the hybrid classroom model, leveraging digital platforms, will ensure technology-driven education is accessible to all.

“The role of teachers will shift from being mere information providers to mentors. Their core responsibility will be to instil necessary skills, creativity, and give children dreams and determination. This also includes introducing them to their traditions, language, values, love, compassion, non-violence, and brotherhood,” he further said.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated women achievers for their significant contributions across various fields.

Shri Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services & Sports, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science & Technology, Information Technology, ARI & Trainings; Wg. Cdr MM Joshi (Retd.), Chairman, Lawrence Public School; Shri Manish Joshi, Managing Director; Ms Manya Joshi, Trustee; Ms Shivani Joshi, Principal of School, teachers, students and parents were present.

Ms. Devyani Rana, Member of Legislative Assembly, Nagrota; Ms. Priya Sethi, former Minister of State; Padma Shri Dr SP Varma, President, Gandhi Global Family, J&K; Lt Gen RK Sharma (Retd.), President, J&K Ex-Services League; heads of various institutions and senior officials also attended the celebrations.

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Photo Credits : CCTV

New Delhi, December 10, 2025: Deepavali, India's iconic Festival of Lights (also known as Diwali), has achieved a major global milestone by being officially inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition was announced during the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee, which is currently being hosted in New Delhi at the historic Red Fort.

The inscription of Deepavali makes it the 16th element from India to be featured on this prestigious global list, which aims to protect and promote 'living expressions' passed down through generations.

Why This UNESCO Recognition is Important

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) noted that the festival strengthens social bonds, promotes inclusivity, and embodies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The five-day festival is celebrated across India and globally by various communities, marking new beginnings and seeking prosperity. It is a time for cleaning and decorating homes with diyas (lamps), exchanging sweets, and performing rituals.

The move is expected to bring increased global awareness and support for the traditions and communities that keep this festival alive. Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat described the honour as a responsibility, stating, "We must ensure Deepavali remains a living heritage," and that it celebrates the "universal message... hope over despair."

Celebration and Context

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the addition, calling it a "thrilling" moment and stating that Deepavali is "the soul of our civilisation" and personifies illumination and righteousness. The announcement was met with cheers from delegates at the Red Fort meeting.

The nomination dossier for Deepavali was submitted for the 2024-25 cycle, prepared through extensive consultation with artisans, practitioners, and cultural groups across the country. The inscription on the Intangible Heritage list is a testament to the festival's deep-rooted cultural significance—from the legend of Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi.

This latest inclusion joins other Indian traditions on the list, such as the Garba dance of Gujarat (2023), Durga Puja in Kolkata (2021), and the Kumbh Mela (2017).

The hosting of the 20th session of the UNESCO committee in India for the first time underlines the nation’s growing commitment to safeguarding its cultural inheritance. The recognition is anticipated to boost local economies associated with the festival, such as potters and traditional sweet-makers. Future efforts will focus on documenting the diverse regional practices of Deepavali to ensure the tradition is transmitted to the next generation sustainably.


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The second-generation Kia Seltos, a highly popular mid-size SUV in India, has been officially revealed. The new model gets a major refresh, bringing a bolder look, a heavily updated interior, and a host of advanced technology and safety features.

The details of the variants and specifications were announced on December 10, 2025, with Kia aiming to strengthen its position in the fiercely competitive SUV market in the country. Bookings for the new Seltos are set to begin soon, with the full price list expected to be announced on January 2, 2026, ahead of deliveries.

Updated Design and Tech-Loaded Cabin

The new Seltos is noticeably larger than the previous model, which contributes to a more imposing look and potentially better cabin space. The exterior features a redesigned 'Digital Tiger Face' grille, striking new Ice Cube LED headlamps, and connected LED tail lamps, giving it a modern, aggressive appearance.

Inside, the biggest change is the adoption of a panoramic ‘Trinity Display,’ which includes twin 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment system and digital driver's display, creating a seamless, high-tech look. Key new features in the top variants include a dual-pane Panoramic Sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and flush-fitting door handles with proximity unlock.

Engine Options Remain Consistent

The new Seltos retains the familiar engine line-up, which has proven popular with Indian buyers. It will continue to offer:

Safety Gets a Major Upgrade

A significant update is the introduction of a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite in the higher variants. This feature includes functions like Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, and Lane Keep Assist, significantly boosting safety. Six airbags will be offered as standard across all variants, alongside other safety features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and a 360-degree camera system.

The new model will be available in multiple variants, including HTE, HTK, HTX (Tech Line), and the sporty GTX and X-Line trims (GT Line), each offering a different mix of features.

Expected Impact and Next Steps

The enhanced features, particularly the panoramic sunroof and Level 2 ADAS, are expected to make the 2026 Seltos a strong contender against rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra, which are also receiving updates. The move is seen as Kia's response to the rising demand for premium, feature-rich SUVs.

Industry observers note that while the feature additions are welcome, the final pricing, which will be announced on January 2, 2026, will be key to its market success. The company is betting on the refreshed styling and technology to once again set a new benchmark in the segment.

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