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Notorious Criminal Killed After Firing at Naka in Jammu

Representational Picture

Jammu, Apr 27 (NVI): A notorious criminal was killed during a police encounter after he allegedly opened fire on a police team at a naka in the Miran Sahib area of Jammu late Sunday night, officials said.

Officials told that acting on specific inputs regarding the movement of the accused, a police team from Police Station Miran Sahib laid a naka and intensified checking in the area.

During checking, the accused, identified as Abhineet Singh, a member of the Nagi gang and a history-sheeter involved in more than 13 FIRs including attempt to murder, rioting and arms smuggling, arrived on a motorcycle along with an associate.

When signalled to stop, the duo allegedly tried to evade the naka and opened fire on the police party. In retaliation and in self-defence, police fired back, following which both accused fled from the spot abandoning their motorcycle under the cover of darkness.

Officials said the police team chased the accused and later found Abhineet Singh in an injured condition in a nearby canal, while his associate managed to escape. He was shifted to Government Medical College Jammu, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The body has been shifted for post-mortem examination, while a search operation has been launched to nab the absconding associate. (NVI)

Balochistan: BLA says it killed 42 Pakistani soldiers, injured many others in multiple attacks

Fighters of Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) at some undisclosed location. File Pic

Quetta, Apr 26: Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) tonight claimed to have killed 42 personnel of occupying Pakistani forces and injured numerous others in 27 operations across Balochistan over a period of 10 days.

These operations included IED blasts, drone strikes, and ambushes targeting the occupying Pakistani military between April 15 and 25, BLA spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said in a statement.

BLA fighters seized control of multiple security posts and confiscated weapons.

“In these attacks, 42 personnel of the occupying forces were killed and numerous others were injured, while one soldier was taken into custody alive,” he said, adding BLA lost three fighters in these operations, identified as Shah Karam Mullazai alias Sachan, Gohram Baloch alias Kambar, and Asim Shahwani alias Rodin.

Details of the Operations, according to the BLA spokesman:

April 15: In Zehri, Khuzdar, BLA fighters targeted infantry personnel of the occupying army advancing at Sohinda with a remote-controlled IED, killing three personnel on the spot.

Later, when the occupying forces attempted to advance in a convoy, Sarmachars ambushed them.

Seven more personnel were killed and several injured. The cowardly enemy fled, leaving behind bodies, a vehicle, and a motorcycle.

The following day, out of frustration, the occupying forces and “Death Squads” targeted civilian populations, taking people prisoner and extrajudicially killing eleven individuals by direct firing.

April 16: In Al-Mark, Kharan, BLA fighters targeted the occupying Pakistani military with IEDs and ambushes as they advanced with multiple vehicles for a military offensive.

The attacks forced the occupying forces to retreat; at least seven personnel were killed and two vehicles were destroyed.

On the same day in Quetta, Sarmachars targeted Eagle Squad police personnel on Qambrani Road with an IED while they were on motorcycle patrol, injuring two personnel.

April 17: In Kohlu, BLA fighters killed Sher Afzal Zarkon, a key operative of the occupying army, in an Intelligence-Based Operation while he was traveling by motorcycle at night.

The deceased was leading a “Death Squad” in Duki under the patronage of the occupying army. This armed group has been involved in enforced disappearances of youth, violation of the sanctity of homes, and military aggression.

On the same day in Besima, BLA fighters targeted the convoys of Death Squad leaders Tikri Samalani and Samad at Jur and Mamai. Subsequent attempts by the occupying army to advance were also thwarted, resulting in casualties for both the Death Squad and the military.

April 18: The occupying Pakistani army attempted to advance for an offensive in Shahrag, Harnai, where Sarmachars initiated attacks.

Multiple personnel were killed or injured, and one soldier, Abdul Haleem, was taken into custody. Soldier Abdul Haleem is currently in our custody, and interrogation is ongoing.

In Jhal Magsi, BLA fighters took control of the Shoran Levies post and seized weapons. Another unit took control of a camp belonging to a military-backed armed group, seized weapons, and set the camp on fire.

In Nawano, Zamuran, Sarmachars intercepted and destroyed two supply vehicles. In Khudabadan, Panjgur, an attack on military vehicles at night resulted in the death of two personnel.

April 19: BLA fighter Shah Karam Mullazai alias Sachan was martyred during clashes with the occupying army at Momich, Zamuran.

At Kambela, Dasht, Mastung, four occupying personnel were killed and seven injured during an ambush on an advancing military column.

In a follow-up night attack, five more personnel were killed; the enemy fled leaving behind bodies and a destroyed vehicle.

On the same day, BLA fighters attacked a military camp at Kand Masuri, Dasht, killing two personnel.

In the evening, three personnel of the Pakistani forces were killed and their vehicle disabled in an attack at Daghari Cross near Quetta.

BLA fighter Asim Shahwani alias Rodin was martyred during the clashes at Kambela.

April 22: BLA fighters targeted a CTD convoy at Zarin Jungle, Nushki. In Dalbandin, two Levies posts at Khazangi and Kurodak were taken over and weapons seized.

In Kotal, Gurgina (Mastung), BLA’s aerial and drone warfare unit “QAHR” carried out a drone strike on a military camp, killing two personnel and injuring four, while causing significant financial loss to the enemy.

April 24: Near Hanna Urak, Quetta, BLA fighters took control of an oil and gas company site, destroying heavy machinery and vehicles by fire. At Hajika, Surab, four personnel were killed and several injured in a coordinated IED and ambush attack.

April 25: In Zawa, Kalat, BLA fighters targeted occupying personnel with an explosion as they attempted to defuse an IED; two personnel died instantly and three were injured.

On the same night in Yakmach, Dalbandin, Sarmachars took control of a police station and a rest house. After seizing the weapons of the personnel, the buildings, parked vehicles, and machinery were set on fire and destroyed.

He said the BLA pays a tribute to the valiant fighters killed in the operations as they fought against the enemy on the battlefield “to break the chains of slavery and ensure Baloch national survival”.

“Their sacrifice kept the flame of freedom burning. Their flowing blood renews the vow that the Baloch national movement has reached a stage where the fear of death is insignificant compared to the love for the motherland.

The BLA reaffirms its commitment that the blood of the martyrs will not go in vain, and their unfinished mission will be led to its logical conclusion: the complete independence of Balochistan and the final withdrawal of the occupying enemy. The sacrifices of these great Baloch sons will remain the crown jewel of Baloch history and a beacon of light for future generations,” said the BLA spokesperson. (NVI)

BOPEE Conducts CET for Nursing, Paramedical Courses Across J&K

Jammu, Apr 26 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir Board of Professional Entrance Examinations (BOPEE) on Sunday conducted the Common Entrance Test (CET) for admission to B.Sc. Nursing, B.Sc. Paramedical and B.Sc. Technology courses for the 2026–27 academic session across the Union Territory.

The examination was held at 48 centres, including 37 in Kashmir division and 11 in Jammu division, with around 25,090 candidates appearing out of 26,237 registered applicants, recording an attendance of 95.6 per cent, officials said.

Adequate arrangements were put in place to ensure smooth conduct of the examination in coordination with district administrations, institutions and law enforcement agencies, they said.

BOPEE Chairperson Professor Minu Mahajan, along with senior officials, monitored the examination process at centres in Srinagar and Jammu.

The board appreciated the support extended by the administration, police, monitoring teams and institutional staff in ensuring hassle-free conduct of the test.(NVI)

DG YSS Inaugurates UT-Level ‘Leagues of Classics’ Football Tournament in Srinagar

Srinagar, Apr 26 (NVI): Director General of Youth Services and Sports Anuradha Gupta on Sunday inaugurated the “Leagues of Classics” inter-district UT-level football tournament at Polo Ground here, aimed at engaging youth and promoting sports across Jammu and Kashmir.

The tournament witnessed participation from players representing multiple districts of the Union Territory, officials said.

Addressing the gathering, Gupta said the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between students and non-students by providing a common sporting platform, adding that the department is committed to ensuring wider participation of youth in constructive activities.

Highlighting the role of sports in shaping society, she stressed the need to steer young people away from drug abuse and social isolation through active engagement in games.

The Director General also administered a pledge under the “Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan”, urging participants to contribute towards building a drug-free society.

Officials said UT-level tournaments in cricket and volleyball are also underway as part of the department’s ongoing sports calendar.

The event was attended by officials of the Youth Services and Sports Department, including District Youth Services and Sports Officer Srinagar Ghulam Hassan Lone, who highlighted the importance of such initiatives in channelising youth energy positively.

The tournament will continue over the next few days.(NVI)

 

Displaced Kashmiri Pandits Rally Against NAFSA, Plan Protest in Jammu

Jammu, Apr 26 (NVI): A meeting of the Vision Kashmir group was held at Muthi Ghat here on Sunday evening, drawing participation from members of the displaced Kashmiri Pandits from various parts of Jammu.

Prominent attendees included Kuldeep Kashmiri, Bharat Kachroo and Mohan Sharda.

The discussions focused on NAFSA, with participants expressing concern over its alleged adverse impact on the community.

Addressing the gathering, Kuldeep Kashmiri and Bharat Kachroo urged members to join a protest scheduled on Wednesday at the office of the Relief Commissioner over ongoing issues.

Speakers at the meeting emphasized the need for unity and called for a legal course of action against NAFSA. They asserted that the policy should not be applicable to the KP community until their permanent rehabilitation is ensured.

Participants extended support to the proposals, while organizers assured that efforts are underway to address the concerns.

The meeting concluded with a call for collective action, stressing that unity within the community remains key to achieving their demands.(NVI)

Delhi Under Orange Alert as Maximum Temperatures Hit 45°C

Delhi Under Orange Alert as Maximum Temperatures Hit 45°C
Delhi Under Orange Alert as Maximum Temperatures Hit 45°C

NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for the national capital today, April 26, as Delhi endures its third consecutive day of severe heatwave conditions. Residents are battling sweltering temperatures driven by dry northwesterly winds and intense solar heating.

While the heat is expected to persist for the next 48 to 72 hours, the IMD has offered a glimmer of hope with a prediction of light rain and thunderstorms on Monday afternoon.

Delhi Heatwave Alert: अगले 3 दिन झुलसाएगी दिल्ली की गर्मी, IMD का ऑरेंज अलर्ट, 45°C पहुंचेगा पारा | Delhi Heatwave orange Alert IMD weather Update 45 degree temperature next 3 days - Hindi Oneindia

Temperature Outlook: April 26 – April 28

Date Forecast/Alert Max Temp Min Temp
Sunday, April 26 Orange Alert (Severe Heatwave) 43–45°C 25–27°C
Monday, April 27 Yellow Alert (Isolated Heatwave + Thunderstorm) 42–44°C 26°C
Tuesday, April 28 Gradual Improvement Expected 41–42°C 25°C

Regional Impact

The heatwave is not limited to Delhi; several neighboring states are also under high-temperature warnings:

  • Haryana & UP: Orange alerts have been sounded in Gurgaon, Faridabad, and Lucknow, where temperatures have surged nearly 4°C above the seasonal normal.

  • Rajasthan: Yellow alerts are active for Jaipur, Bikaner, and Jodhpur.

  • Himachal & Jammu: Even high-altitude regions are reporting isolated heatwave conditions, a rare early-season occurrence.

Health Advisory: How to Stay Safe

The IMD and local health authorities have reactivated specialized “Heatwave Clinics” across Delhi hospitals. Citizens are urged to follow these safety protocols:

Also read: Rain, Gusty Winds Likely in J&K from April 27: MeT

  1. Avoid the Peak: Stay indoors between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM when the sun is most intense.

  2. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water and oral rehydration solutions (ORS), even if you do not feel thirsty.

  3. Protective Gear: If you must step out, use umbrellas, wide-brimmed hats, and light-colored cotton clothing.

  4. Vehicle Safety: Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles, as temperatures inside can become lethal within minutes.

Why Is It So Hot?

Meteorologists attribute this early and intense spike to a combination of strong solar heating and dry northwesterly winds. Additionally, global climate patterns, including the forecasted Super El Niño of 2026, are contributing to a “nearly global dominance” of above-normal temperatures this season.

The Return of the Heatwave ‘Mega El Nino’: Is 2026 a Repeat of the 1877 Disaster?

The Return of the Heatwave 'Mega El Nino': Is 2026 a Repeat of the 1877 Disaster?
The Return of the Heatwave 'Mega El Nino': Is 2026 a Repeat of the 1877 Disaster?

New delhi:  As global temperatures shatter records, climatologists are sounding the alarm over a potential “Mega El Nino” (or Super El Niño) in 2026. This rare and extreme climate phenomenon hasn’t reached its peak intensity since 1877–78, a period that remains one of the deadliest in human history, resulting in the deaths of approximately 4% of the global population due to drought and famine.

The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has confirmed a rapid rise in sea-surface temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific, pointing toward an onset as early as May–July 2026.

El Nino impact: Which stocks will burn & which will fire up as market braces for heat wave - The Economic Times

Historical Context: The Tragedy of 1877–78

The 1877 event serves as a grim warning. It was characterized by unusually warm temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific, which:

  • Triggered Global Famine: Severe droughts in India, China, Brazil, and parts of Africa led to massive crop failures.

  • Massive Mortality: An estimated 19 to 50 million people died—roughly 4% of the world’s population at the time.

  • Economic Collapse: The lack of monsoon rain decimated agricultural economies, a vulnerability that still exists for many nations today.

2026 Forecast: What the Models Are Showing

According to Chief of Climate Prediction at WMO, climate models are now strongly aligned.

  • High Confidence: There is high confidence in the onset of El Niño by mid-2026, with further intensification expected by 2027.

  • Global Temperatures: This event, compounded by existing human-induced climate change, could push global temperatures to unprecedented record highs within the next 18 months.

  • Salinity Factor: Scientists have noted higher salt levels in the Pacific, which could make this cycle 20% stronger than average El Niño events.

Should India Worry?

For India, the stakes are exceptionally high, as 70% of the rainfall needed for agriculture and reservoirs comes from the monsoon.

Metric 2026 Prediction Impact
Monsoon Rainfall 92% of long-term average Classified as “Below Normal” rainfall.
Drought Risk 60% Chance Strong El Niños historically cause drought in at least one-third of the country.
Agricultural Output Significant Decline Reduced yields in North, Central, and Eastern India could trigger food inflation.
Heatwave Duration Extreme Predicted “Heat Domes” may lead to longer, more lethal heatwaves in urban centers.

Economic and Social Fallout

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns that a weak southwest monsoon will put immense pressure on water resources. Reservoirs and groundwater levels are already dropping, and a failed monsoon in 2026 would:

  1. Increase Food Prices: Lower crop yields will drive up inflation for basic commodities.

  2. Water Scarcity: Urban and rural areas may face severe water rationing.

  3. Health Risks: Rising heat combined with humidity increases the risk of heatstroke and respiratory issues.

While it is too early to guarantee a “Mega” event, the signs are strong enough that experts are calling for immediate Heat Action Plans and robust water management strategies to mitigate a repeat of the 19th-century catastrophe.

Rain, Gusty Winds Likely in J&K from April 27: MeT

Rainfall
Representational image

Srinagar, Apr 26 (NVI): The India Meteorological Department has forecast rain and gusty winds across Jammu and Kashmir from April 27, while issuing a heatwave advisory for five districts in the Jammu region, officials said on Sunday.

Director of the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, Mukhtar Ahmad, said the weather is expected to remain generally dry on April 26, providing a brief window for farm operations.

He said April 27 and 28 will witness generally cloudy conditions with spells of light rain and thundershowers at scattered to many places, accompanied by gusty winds, mainly during afternoon and evening hours.

On April 29 and 30, the weather is likely to remain partly cloudy with brief spells of light rain at isolated places, he said, adding that dry weather is expected again on May 1 and 2.

Fresh spells of light rain and thundershowers are likely at scattered to many places on May 3 and 4, the official added.

The MeT department has advised farmers to resume agricultural operations between April 26 and the afternoon of April 27 to make use of the dry weather conditions.

Meanwhile, hot and dry weather is expected to prevail in the Jammu region, particularly in Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Reasi and Udhampur districts, with chances of heatwave at isolated places on April 26 and 27.

People have been advised to avoid heat exposure during peak hours and stay hydrated, officials said.(NVI)

Rare Moment in IPL: Rashid Khan Bowls Just One Over in IPL Match Against CSK

Rare Moment in IPL: Rashid Khan Bowls Just One Over in IPL Match Against CSK
Rare Moment in IPL: Rashid Khan Bowls Just One Over in IPL Match Against CSK

CHENNAI: In a statistical anomaly that has stunned cricket fans, Afghanistan spin wizard Rashid Khan bowled only a single over during Gujarat Titans’ (GT) clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Sunday, April 26, 2026. This marks the first time in his 3,308-day IPL career—spanning back to his debut in 2017—that he has not completed at least two overs in a full game.

Introduced late in the 15th over at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Rashid was taken to the cleaners by the CSK batting duo of Shivam Dube and Ruturaj Gaikwad, conceding 21 runs in his solitary six-ball spell.

The Breakdown of the 21-Run Over

The “Chepauk Heat” proved too much for the world’s leading T20 wicket-taker as CSK’s middle order exploited the conditions:

  • Balls 1-2: Tidy start, but the pressure mounted.

  • Ball 3: Shivam Dube dispatched a length ball for four.

  • Ball 4: Dube followed up with a towering six, a signature strike against leg-spin.

  • Ball 6: Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad finished the over with a boundary, pushing the total to 21.

Following this expensive over, GT captain Shubman Gill opted not to bring Rashid back, relying instead on his pace battery and uncapped spinner Manav Suthar.

Rashid Khan’s Shortest Spells in IPL History

Team Overs Runs Wickets Opponent Date
Gujarat Titans 1.0 21 0 CSK April 26, 2026
Gujarat Titans 1.4 25 0 RCB May 4, 2024
Sunrisers Hyderabad 2.0 11 0 KKR May 17, 2017
Gujarat Titans 2.0 12 1 DC April 17, 2024

GT Bowling Analysis

While Rashid struggled, other GT bowlers managed to find some rhythm on the Chennai surface:

  • Kagiso Rabada: The standout performer with 3/25 in his 4 overs.

  • Manav Suthar: The young spinner showed more control than his senior partner, returning figures of 1/22 in 3 overs.

  • Arshad Khan: Chipped in with 2 wickets, though the pace unit overall faced a tough challenge from a dominant CSK lineup.

The “Dube Factor”

Shivam Dube’s continued dominance over spin has become a major tactical hurdle for captains. By neutralizing Rashid Khan so effectively that he was taken out of the attack, Dube has solidified his reputation as India’s premier spin-basher ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Parliamentary Panel Rebukes NMC for Overlooking Legal Vetting of Regulations

Parliamentary Panel Rebukes NMC for Overlooking Legal Vetting of Regulations
Parliamentary Panel Rebukes NMC for Overlooking Legal Vetting of Regulations

NEW DELHI: A parliamentary Panel has expressed serious concern over a “major procedural lapse” by the National Medical Commission (NMC), finding that several key medical regulations were issued without the mandatory legal vetting by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice.

The Lok Sabha Committee on Subordinate Legislation, in its report titled “Infirmities in the regulations framed under the National Medical Commission Act,” stated it was “taken aback” to discover that such an integral step in the legislative process had been “missed.” The report was tabled during the recently concluded Budget session of Parliament in April 2026.

The Missing “Non-Negotiable” Step

According to the committee, legal vetting is not merely a formality but a safeguard to ensure that subordinate legislation—rules and regulations drafted by executive bodies—is constitutionally sound and legally robust.

Committee’s Finding: The panel noted that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare admitted to the oversight during depositions.

The Risk: The committee cautioned that regulations in the public domain serve as the “fulcrum” for executive actions. Loopholes or legal vulnerabilities in these documents can lead to significant legal ramifications and litigation.

The Ruling: The panel emphasized that vetting is a “non-negotiable step” that must be completed before any regulation is published in the Gazette of India.

Also read: Saree Cancer: When Tradition Turns Risky, Spot the Signs Before It’s Too Late

Specific Regulations Under Scrutiny

The committee’s examination focused on three major sets of regulations drafted by the NMC:

Recognition of Medical Qualifications Regulations, 2023

Teachers Eligibility Qualifications in Medical Institutions Regulations, 2022

Medical Institutions (Qualifications of Faculty) Regulations, 2025

Broader Implications for 2026

The timing of this report is particularly sensitive as the NMC has recently been active in proposing new amendments for the 2026-27 academic year.

Draft Amendments: On February 17, 2026, the NMC issued draft notifications regarding the establishment of new medical institutions and seat increases.

Medical Practice Rules: As of April 7, 2026, new draft rules for the Registration of Medical Practitioners and licenses to practice were released for public feedback.

Following the panel’s rebuke, the Health Ministry has been advised to remain “alert” and ensure that all current and future subordinate legislations are duly vetted to avoid administrative chaos in the medical education sector.

 

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