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Rain, Thunderstorm Likely Across Several North Kashmir Areas in Next Few Hours; Advisory Issued

Srinagar, May 1 (NVI): The MET Centre Srinagar on Friday evening issued a nowcast warning predicting a spell of rain and thundershowers across several parts of Kashmir over the next 2–3 hours.

According to the update issued at 2050 hrs, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds is expected at many places in Kupwara, Handwara, Sopore and adjoining areas, as well as Bandipora and the Ganderbal–Sonamarg axis. Parts of Srinagar including Soura, Zakura, Dal Lake and nearby areas are also likely to be affected.

The weather office has issued an advisory urging people to suspend boating activities in Dal Lake and adjoining water bodies during this period.

Residents have also been advised to stay away from electric poles, overhead wires, and loose or unsecured structures due to the risk posed by strong winds and lightning.(NVI)

Peace, Compassion Only Way to Resolve Conflicts: Amit Shah

File Photo : Union Home Minister Sh Amit Shah

Leh, May 1 (NVI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said peace and compassion remain the only viable path to resolve conflicts, as he described the return of sacred relics of Gautama Buddha to Ladakh after 75 years as a historic spiritual moment.

Addressing a gathering in Leh on the occasion of Buddha Purnima, Shah said the relics’ presence has made this year’s celebrations especially significant, allowing people from Ladakh, Kargil and nearby areas to connect more closely with their spiritual heritage.

He said improved infrastructure and connectivity have enabled wider public participation compared to the past, when access to such events was limited.

Shah noted that India’s civilisation has, for thousands of years, propagated the message of peace and coexistence, adding that the relevance of these values is even greater in diverse regions like Ladakh and Kargil.

Tracing the history of Buddhism in the region, he said the religion spread to Ladakh in phases, flourishing locally before expanding further. He added that Kashmir once served as a major centre of Buddhist learning, including Mahayana philosophy and art.

Shah said emissaries of Ashoka played a key role in laying the early foundations of Buddhism along the Kashmir-Gandhara route, including in Ladakh. He added that the religion saw renewed growth during the Kushan period between the 1st and 3rd centuries CE.

Ancient stupas, rock-cut sculptures and inscriptions in Kharoshthi and Brahmi scripts bear testimony to the continued development of Buddhism in the region, he said.

Referring to the Silk Route, Shah said it connected Kashmir, Leh, Yarkand, Khotan and Tibet, serving not only as a trade corridor but also as a channel for the exchange of ideas, manuscripts and artistic traditions.

“These routes were channels of intellectual and cultural transmission,” he said, adding that their legacy is still visible in Ladakh’s rock inscriptions, Mani walls and Buddhist art.

He said the later phase of Buddhism in the region was shaped by Tibetan traditions, which further enriched Ladakh’s cultural and spiritual landscape.

Shah reiterated that the return of the sacred relics underscores Ladakh’s historic role in preserving Buddhist teachings and reflects India’s enduring ethos of peace, compassion and coexistence. (NVI)

Tributes Paid to Sarvanand Koul Premi, Son on 36th Martyrdom Day in Jammu

Jammu, May 1 (NVI): Glowing tributes were paid to noted scholar and poet Amar Shaheed Sarvanand Koul Premi and his son, martyr Virender Koul, on their 36th martyrdom day at a commemorative event organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) at KL Saigal Hall here on Friday.

Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants), J&K, Dr Arvind Karwani, attended the programme as the chief guest, while eminent historian Dr Ratan Lal Hangloo presided over the function. Padma Shri awardee B L Bhat was the co-chief guest. Rajinder Premi, son of Sarvanand Koul Premi, was also present on the dais.

Addressing the gathering, Karwani lauded the efforts of Rajinder Premi in preserving and promoting the literary and cultural legacy of Sarvanand Koul Premi. He described the late poet as a symbol of intellectual and artistic excellence and highlighted his contribution to Kashmiri literature and communal harmony.

In his presidential address, Hangloo said that Premi’s writings continue to inspire generations and reflect the composite cultural ethos of Jammu and Kashmir.

Scholarly papers on the life and works of the late litterateur were presented by Dr Sohan Lal Koul and Er Vinod Kumar, who shed light on his literary contributions and philosophical thought.

On the occasion, Piare Hatash, Prof Rattan Talashi and Bal Mukand Sanyasi were honoured for their contributions to literature and society.

A musical segment featured compositions by Kuldeep Sapru and performances by artists including Harshita Pandita, Shivani Joshi, Gandharv Kaloo, Shriya Gurtoo, Simran Gurtoo and Akash Kaul, accompanied by Ashish Gill on tabla, Rakesh Jasotra on flute, Rajeev on dholak, Chandan Kumar on keyboard and Sahil Jasotra on octopad.

The event also included a mushaira in which poets Santosh Shah Nadan, Bal Mukand Sanyasi, Chaman Lal, Piare Hatash, Maharaj Krishan Bhat, Kundan Paras, Kusum Dhar, Ashok Kumar Dhar, Rajinder Aagosh and Ramesh Kumar Bhat recited their works.

The programme was conducted by Vijay Wali, while Rajinder Premi presented the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to participants and attendees for making the event a success.(NVI)

Iran Sends New Proposal to US via Pakistan Amid Ongoing Tensions

Tehran, May 01: Iran has reportedly sent a diplomatic proposal to the United States through Pakistani mediators, according to Iran’s state news agency IRNA. The development comes at a sensitive moment in ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which have persisted for more than two months.

The reported communication marks a continuation of indirect diplomacy, with Pakistan acting as an intermediary channel. The proposal was said to have been delivered on Thursday, although details of its contents have not been made public.

Pakistan’s Role as a Mediator Channel

Pakistan’s involvement highlights its emerging role as a communication bridge in regional diplomatic efforts. According to the report, the latest Iranian proposal was transmitted through Pakistani channels, reflecting continued backdoor engagement even as formal negotiations remain inconsistent.

This is not the first time Islamabad has been linked to facilitating dialogue in the region. The mediation effort comes after Iran’s absence from the most recent round of talks held in Islamabad, which were aimed at reducing hostilities and exploring pathways toward de-escalation.

Breakdown in Recent Negotiations

The last round of negotiations, held in Islamabad, reportedly saw Iran not participating directly. These talks were intended to address escalating tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, but progress has been limited amid ongoing military and political friction.

Despite earlier diplomatic engagement attempts, the absence of key stakeholders in recent discussions has slowed momentum toward a comprehensive agreement, keeping regional tensions unresolved.

US Position and Signals from Washington

The United States has maintained an open but conditional stance on talks. US President Donald Trump recently stated that Iran could initiate contact if it wanted to pursue negotiations, signalling that diplomatic engagement remains possible.

However, there has been no confirmation of direct talks between Washington and Tehran, with communication largely continuing through intermediaries.

Also read: US-Iran war of words escalates; Trump talks about restarting war

Broader Regional Context

The reported proposal comes against the backdrop of prolonged instability involving Iran and Israel, alongside US involvement in the broader geopolitical situation. The conflict, now extending beyond two months, has increased pressure on all sides to explore diplomatic off-ramps.

Indirect communication through mediators like Pakistan suggests that while formal talks remain stalled, backchannel diplomacy is still active.

What Happens Next

At this stage, it remains unclear whether the new Iranian proposal will lead to renewed negotiations or a formal response from the United States. The lack of publicly disclosed details means the scope and substance of the offer are still unknown.

However, the continued use of mediators indicates that diplomatic channels remain open, even if progress is slow and uncertain.

Breaking Story: Under-construction bridge collapses in Jammu, number of workers trapped

Scene at the site of collapse of under-construction bridge in Jammu today
Scene at the site of collapse of under-construction bridge in Jammu today

Jammu, May 1: An under-construction bridge collapsed today in Jammu, due to which a number of workers have got trapped in the debris, according to sources.

The bridge is being constructed in Bantalab area of Jammu city.

According to sources, up to 10 labourers may be trapped under the debris of the under-construction bridge.

Police and other agencies have started rescue work at the site.

(Note: These are initial details of the breaking story. This story will be updated when more details are available). (NVI)

US Considers First-Time Deployment of Dark Eagle Hypersonic Missile Against Iran: What Makes It So Deadly?

US Considers First-Time Deployment of Dark Eagle Hypersonic Missile Against Iran: What Makes It So Deadly?
US Considers First-Time Deployment of Dark Eagle Hypersonic Missile Against Iran: What Makes It So Deadly?

Washington, May 01: The United States is reportedly weighing the possible deployment of its long-range hypersonic missile, the Dark Eagle, in West Asia for potential use against Iran. According to reports, US Central Command (CENTCOM) has requested the system’s deployment, citing the need for a weapon capable of striking deeply buried or distant targets. The move has not yet been approved, but it signals a potential escalation even amid an ongoing ceasefire environment between the two countries.

The development highlights rising strategic tensions and the growing role of hypersonic weapons in modern warfare, especially in scenarios involving highly defended military infrastructure.

Why the US Wants to Deploy Dark Eagle

The push for deploying the Dark Eagle missile is primarily driven by range limitations in existing US strike systems. Iranian forces are believed to have repositioned key missile assets beyond the reach of current US precision strike weapons, which can engage targets at a few hundred miles. This has raised concerns that conventional systems may not be sufficient for long-range, high-value targets inside Iran.

Reports suggest CENTCOM’s request is based on the need for deeper strike capability, particularly if future military operations require hitting mobile or heavily defended sites. However, the proposal is still under review and has not received final approval.

What Is the Dark Eagle Hypersonic Missile

The Dark Eagle, officially known as the Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW), is a next-generation US Army missile system still under development. It is designed to deliver conventional precision strikes against heavily defended and time-sensitive targets.

The system works by launching a hypersonic glide vehicle using a booster rocket. Once it reaches high altitude, the glide body separates and travels toward its target at extremely high speeds while maintaining maneuverability. This combination of speed and control makes it difficult for existing air defence systems to detect and intercept.

Speed, Range, and Operational Capability

The Dark Eagle is designed to travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound. Its estimated range varies depending on sources, but reports suggest it can strike targets between approximately 1,700 km and 3,500 km away.

This range places it among the longest-reaching conventional strike systems in the US arsenal. However, despite its advanced design, the missile has not yet been officially declared fully operational, as testing and deployment phases are still ongoing.

Why It Is Difficult to Intercept

What makes the Dark Eagle particularly dangerous is not only its speed but also its ability to manoeuvre mid-flight. Unlike traditional ballistic missiles that follow predictable trajectories, hypersonic glide vehicles can change direction, making interception significantly more difficult.

Because it travels at hypersonic speeds and does not follow a fixed path, defence systems have a very short reaction window. This combination of unpredictability and velocity makes it especially challenging for even advanced air defence networks to counter.

Cost, Strategic Value, and Debate

The Dark Eagle is one of the most expensive missile systems being developed by the United States. Estimates suggest each missile costs around $15 million, while a full battery system could cost billions of dollars.

This high cost has sparked debate among defence analysts about whether such a sophisticated and expensive weapon should be used in conflicts involving regional adversaries. Critics argue that deploying it against Iran may not justify the expense, especially given its status as a strategic-level weapon designed for high-end warfare scenarios.

How It Compares to Russia and China

The US development of Dark Eagle is widely seen as a response to hypersonic systems already deployed by other major powers. Russia’s Kinzhal missile and China’s DF-17 are both operational hypersonic weapons with similar speed and range advantages.

While these systems have already been integrated into active service, the Dark Eagle is still in development, reflecting the US effort to close the technological gap in hypersonic strike capability.

What Its Deployment Could Mean

If approved for deployment, the Dark Eagle would mark the first operational use of a US hypersonic missile in a real conflict scenario. Such a move could significantly raise the intensity of any future military escalation involving Iran.

Analysts suggest that introducing this system into an active theatre would signal a shift toward faster, more precise, and potentially more destructive long-range strike capabilities. However, it could also increase geopolitical tensions and raise concerns about further escalation in an already fragile security environment.

US-Iran war of words escalates; Trump talks about restarting war

Donald Trump
US President Donald Trump (File pic)

New Delhi, May 1: The war-of-words between the US and Iran has escalated, with Donald Trump talking about the possibility of restarting the war, responding to which the Iranian leaders have vowed a strong retaliation.

Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has advised its nationals to urgently leave Iran, Lebanon and Iraq.

Escalation in posturing between the US and Iran got reflected when Trump said that he “might need” to restart the war, which was paused on April 8 after 40 days of intense fighting.

He added that only a handful of people know the details of ongoing talks.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, on the other hand, described the US naval siege of Iranian ports as an “extension of military operations” that is “intolerable”.

In Iran, Air defences were heard activated in the capital Tehran night apparently to deal with small aircraft and drones, the country’s media reported.

As the ceasefire continues, the US and Iran have held one round of direct talks at a very high level on April 10 and 11 in Islamabad following mediation by Pakistan but those failed to produce any results.

Pakistan has subsequently been trying to bring the two sides back to the table but Iran has refused to oblige because of its deep distrust in the US, and possibly the Pakistani regime too.

The 40-day war left 1,701 civilians dead, including 254 children, according to the Iranian media.

In the US:

A senior official in the US administration said for War Powers Resolution purposes, US hostilities with Iran, that began on  February 28, have now “terminated”.

“Both parties agreed to a two-week ceasefire on Tuesday, April 7, that has since been extended,” the official said.

“There has been no exchange of fire between US Armed Forces and Iran since Tuesday, April 7.”

In Israel

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz said his country may soon have to “act again” against Iran, to ensure the Islamic republic “does not once again become a threat to Israel”.

It, meanwhile, continues to attack Lebanon despite a two-week-old ceasefire.

Its latest strikes on three south Lebanon villages killed nine people, among them two children and five women, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry.

Two Israeli military personnel were injured after an explosive drone detonated in southern Lebanon, according to the army.

An officer and a non-commissioned officer sustained moderate wounds and were taken to hospital for treatment, Israeli media reported.

Boost to India’s security architecture, to receive 4th S-400 air defence system from Russia

S-400 air defence system
S-400 air defence system

New Delhi, May 1: India’s security architecture is set to be strengthened as it is expected to receive fourth S-400 air defence system from Russia this month.

This air defence system, called “Sudarshan Chakra”, has become a central part of India’s air defence which was tested during the brief war with Pakistan in May last year.

So far, India has received three such air defence systems, despite strong opposition by the US because of its sanctions on Russia.

What is S-400 System?

It is a system meant to provide a defence shield by intercepting incoming missiles.

It is designed to detect and destroy a wide range of aerial threats, including fighter jets, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles.

According to reports, the system can track and intercept over 100 targets simultaneously and engage multiple threats at different ranges, making it one of the most advanced air defence systems in the world.

Its radar capabilities allow detection at extremely long distances, while its mobility ensures it can be quickly repositioned depending on operational needs.

Also read: India’s First Seaplane Is Coming—Here’s What It Means for Travelers

Why It Is Called “Sudarshan Chakra”

The nickname “Sudarshan Chakra” is inspired by Hindu mythology, where the divine weapon of Lord Vishnu is known for its precision and unstoppable nature. The Indian Air Force uses this symbolic name to represent the system’s ability to provide 360-degree protection and neutralise threats with high accuracy.

Just like its mythological counterpart, the system is seen as a protective shield that can strike targets at long range while defending airspace from multiple directions simultaneously.

Reported Role During Operation Sindoor

During Operation Sindoor in 2025, the S-400 system reportedly played a significant role in India’s air defence response. According to defence reports, it was used to intercept incoming aerial threats, including missiles and drones, and is said to have contributed to neutralising multiple hostile aircraft and projectiles.

It was also credited with creating a strong defensive “buffer zone,” forcing opposing forces to adjust their aerial operations and keep their aircraft at safer distances.

While these claims are based on defence reporting, they have been widely highlighted as evidence of the system’s operational effectiveness.

Why India Is Expanding Its S-400 Fleet

With the upcoming fourth unit, India is further strengthening its layered air defence network. The goal is to protect key military bases, cities, and strategic assets from advanced aerial threats. The system’s ability to integrate into broader air defence structures makes it a critical part of India’s long-term security planning.

The original deal signed in 2018 included five S-400 units, and their phased delivery is gradually enhancing India’s overall defensive coverage.

Strategic Importance

The S-400 provides India with a long-range defensive umbrella that significantly increases deterrence against aerial attacks. Its deployment across strategic regions is designed to reduce vulnerability and improve response time against fast-moving threats.

At a broader level, it reflects India’s focus on modernising its defence systems with advanced, multi-layered technologies.

The arrival of the fourth S-400 system marks another step in strengthening India’s air defence shield. Whether viewed through its technical capabilities or its symbolic “Sudarshan Chakra” identity, the system represents a major upgrade in protecting national airspace. As geopolitical tensions evolve, such systems are likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping regional security dynamics.

Fresh Snowfall In J&K Transforms Bhalesa in Doda Into a Winter Wonderland

Fresh Snowfall In J&K Transforms Bhalesa in Doda Into a Winter Wonderland
Fresh Snowfall In J&K Transforms Bhalesa in Doda Into a Winter Wonderland

Srinagar, May 01: Bhalesa in the Doda district of Jammu & Kashmir has turned into a stunning white landscape after fresh snowfall in the upper reaches, following continuous rainfall in the plains. As the skies cleared, the region revealed a striking natural makeover, with snow-covered mountains shining under soft daylight and creating a picturesque Himalayan scene.

The snowfall has brought a noticeable change in the weather conditions, adding a fresh chill to the region while also enhancing its natural beauty. The hills and valleys around Bhalesa now appear layered in white, drawing attention to the seasonal shift that often transforms this part of Jammu & Kashmir into a scenic attraction.

Locals and visitors witnessed clear skies after days of unsettled weather, allowing the newly snow-covered peaks to stand out sharply against the blue horizon. The combination of rain in lower areas and snow in higher altitudes has created a dramatic contrast, further highlighting the region’s diverse geography.

With temperatures dipping and mountain views becoming more vivid, Bhalesa has once again showcased its reputation for breathtaking natural beauty during the winter transition period.

Head Constable Caught Red-Handed Taking Bribe in Batamaloo: ACB

Srinagar, May 1 (NVI): The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Friday arrested a head constable in Srinagar for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe, officials said.

The accused, identified as Parvaiz Ahmad, was caught during a trap operation laid by the ACB following a complaint from a local resident, they said.

Officials, the complainant had alleged that the policeman was seeking illegal gratification in connection with an official matter.

Acting on the complaint, the ACB team laid a trap in the Batamaloo area and apprehended the accused red-handed while allegedly accepting Rs 5,000 in cash along with a cheque of Rs 35,000, they said.

The bribe amount was recovered on the spot in the presence of independent witnesses, officials said.

A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act and further investigation is underway, they added.(NVI)

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