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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.

 

CM Omar Abdullah Invites Private Investment to Transform J&K’s Education Sector

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Invites Private Investment to Transform J&K’s Education Sector
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Invites Private Investment to Transform J&K’s Education Sector

New Delhi: Following the passage of the landmark Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Act, 2026, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reached out to leading educational institutions in Bengaluru today, During an interactive session with education sector representatives, the Chief Minister pitched the Union Territory as an emerging academic hub, urging reputed private universities to establish campuses under a new, investor-friendly regulatory framework.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, signaling a high-level push to modernize the region’s higher education landscape.

The J&K Private University Act, 2026: A New Chapter

Passed during the recent Budget Session of the J&K Legislative Assembly on April 4, 2026, the Act marks a fundamental policy shift designed to reduce the “student drain” from the region.

Feature Details
Primary Goal To expand access to quality higher education and reduce the need for local students to seek degrees outside the UT.
Sponsorship Universities can be set up by registered societies, trusts, or non-profit companies with a 3-year track record.
Regulatory Body Establishes the J&K Private Universities Regulatory Authority to oversee standards, inspections, and grievance redressal.
Student Protections Mandates 25% seat reservation for J&K domiciles and scholarships for at least 10% of students.
Transparency Prohibits capitation fees and mandates public disclosure of annual audits.

CM Omar’s Pitch in Bengaluru

The Chief Minister emphasized that J&K is no longer just a destination for tourism and cinema—having met with filmmakers in Bengaluru only a day prior—but is now open for significant intellectual and academic investment.

  • A Competitive Ecosystem: “The framework opens up substantial opportunities for reputed institutions to establish campuses in Jammu & Kashmir, fostering a modern, inclusive, and globally competitive higher education ecosystem,” the Chief Minister stated.

  • Investor Confidence: He assured prospective partners of a transparent and investor-friendly environment, focused on research collaborations and academic excellence.

  • Fiscal Independence: Private universities under this Act will operate as self-financing institutions, ensuring they complement government colleges rather than displacing them.

Also Read:90 beneficiaries receive compassionate appointment orders in Kashmir: CM Omar Abdullah

The Road Ahead

The J&K Government has already begun drafting the specific rules for the Act’s implementation, with Education Minister Sakeena Itoo directing that the process be expedited. The government anticipates that the first batch of private university applications will be reviewed by an Expert Committee later this year.

By positioning J&K as an attractive destination for institutions like those headquartered in Bengaluru, the administration hopes to create a vibrant academic corridor that supports the youth and strengthens the region’s socio-economic fabric.

JKEDI to Hold District-Level Startup Meetings Under D-BRAP

Jammu, Apr 26 (NVI): The Jammu & Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute will organise district-level credit facilitation meetings under the District Business Reform Action Plan (D-BRAP) to strengthen the startup ecosystem in the Union Territory, officials said on Sunday.

The initiative is part of the implementation of the Jammu and Kashmir Startup Policy 2024–27, aimed at building a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurship landscape by providing institutional support, financial assistance and capacity-building opportunities to aspiring entrepreneurs and startups.

Under the programme, JKEDI district offices have been designated as District Startup Cells to act as the first point of contact for entrepreneurs, facilitating registrations, spreading awareness about policy benefits and ensuring outreach at the grassroots level.

As part of the exercise, a series of district-level meetings will be held to connect startups, self-help groups and youth with banks and financial institutions to ease access to credit and promote awareness of financial schemes.

The meetings will be held on April 27 in Anantnag and Jammu, and on April 28 in Udhampur and Shopian, officials said.

They said the meetings will provide a platform for participants to explore financial avenues, understand credit mechanisms and receive guidance on business planning and funding strategies.

The startup policy offers incentives such as seed funding, innovation and prototype development grants, market access assistance and support for incubators. It also provides mentorship, capacity-building programmes and networking opportunities.

JKEDI, the nodal agency for the policy’s implementation, has been conducting regular mentorship sessions involving experts and industry leaders to guide startups on technology adoption, regulatory compliance and market expansion.

Officials said the initiative aims to extend entrepreneurial opportunities beyond urban centres and encourage participation from grassroots innovators across Jammu and Kashmir.(NVI)

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

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

New Delhi: While the term “Saree Cancer” sounds alarming, medical experts emphasize that it is an extremely rare condition. It is not the saree itself that is carcinogenic, but rather a specific type of skin malignancy known as Squamous Cell Carcinoma that develops due to decades of chronic friction and poor hygiene at the waistline.

In tropical climates like India, the combination of heat, sweat, and a tightly tied petticoat string can lead to persistent skin irritation, which, if left unaddressed for years, may transition into a non-healing ulcer and eventually become cancerous.

What Is 'Saree Cancer'? The Rare Skin Risk Many Women Don't Know About

Symptoms to Watch For

Early detection is key, as the signs are often subtle and can be mistaken for simple skin irritation:

  • Persistent Itching: A constant burning or itching sensation around the waistline.

  • Skin Changes: Chronic peeling, scaling, or thickening of the skin (hyperkeratosis).

  • Hyperpigmentation: Significant darkening of the skin in the area where the string is tied.

  • Non-healing Ulcers: Any sore or ulcer at the waist that does not heal with standard ointments or over time.

Simple Preventive Habits

Preventing this condition requires only minor, mindful changes to how the garment is worn.

Habit Why it Helps
Broad Waistbands Replace thin, sharp strings with broader cotton tapes or elastic bands to distribute weight evenly.
Loosen the Tie Avoid tying the petticoat excessively tight. A firm but comfortable fit prevents restricted blood flow.
Rotate the Height Slightly shift where you tie your saree—sometimes higher, sometimes lower—to avoid localized trauma.
Maintain Hygiene Ensure the waist area is washed thoroughly and dried completely to prevent sweat-induced fungal infections.
Fabric Choice Use 100% cotton petticoats. Unlike synthetics, cotton allows the skin to breathe and absorbs moisture.
Nighttime Recovery Always switch to loose nightwear (gowns or pajamas) to allow the skin to repair itself overnight.

Saree Cancer is a slow-developing condition caused by mechanical irritation over decades. By making small adjustments to the way the petticoat is secured and prioritizing skin “rest” during the night, women can easily eliminate the risk while continuing to embrace this traditional attire.

India’s First Homebuilt Bullet Train “B28” Is Coming in 2027, What to Expect?

India’s First Homebuilt Bullet Train “B28” Is Coming in 2027, What to Expect?
India’s First Homebuilt Bullet Train “B28” Is Coming in 2027, What to Expect?

NEW DELHI — In a major stride toward the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, Indian Railways has set a definitive timeline for its first homegrown high-speed train. Known as the “B28” trainset, India’s first indigenous bullet train is expected to make its debut in 2027, marking a shift from importing Japanese technology to domestic engineering.

The project, spearheaded by BEML Limited in Bengaluru and the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, aims to establish India as a global player in the high-speed rail sector.

Speed and Technology Specifications

The B28 is designed to push the boundaries of current Indian rail travel. While the Vande Bharat trains are “semi-high-speed,” the B28 enters the “high-speed” bracket with significantly enhanced metrics.

Feature Specification
Operational Speed 250 km/h
Maximum Design Speed 280 km/h
Manufacturer BEML & ICF Consortium
Formation 8-car trainset (Standard Gauge)
Capacity Approx. 580 seats
Environmental Design Built for temperatures up to 50°C and heavy monsoon rain

Timeline and Rollout Strategy

The debut of the indigenous bullet train is synchronized with the broader Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project.

  • December 2026 – March 2027: The first two prototype trainsets are expected to be rolled out from BEML’s Bengaluru facility.

  • Q2 2027: Extensive static and dynamic testing, including RDSO-mandated safety trials.

  • August 15, 2027: Initial commercial operations are targeted to begin on the Surat–Vapi (or Surat–Bilimora) stretch in Gujarat.

  • 2028-2029: Full-scale operations on the complete 508 km corridor connecting Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Vande Bharat vs. B28: The Evolutionary Gap

While the Vande Bharat has revolutionized Indian travel, the B28 represents a different league of engineering:

  • Tracks: Vande Bharat runs on upgraded broad-gauge tracks; B28 requires dedicated standard-gauge high-speed corridors.

  • Speed: B28 (250 km/h) is nearly 40% faster than the maximum operational speed of Vande Bharat (160–180 km/h).

  • Tech: The B28 features advanced aerodynamics, pressurized cabins for high-speed tunnel travel, and specialized bogies for stability at 250+ km/h.

     

Why 2027 is a Landmark Year

The indigenous bullet train initiative was accelerated after challenges in procurement costs for the Japanese Shinkansen E5 rolling stock. By building the B28 at home, India is expected to reduce the cost of high-speed trainsets by nearly 50%, making future corridors (like the proposed Delhi–Varanasi or Mumbai–Hyderabad routes) more economically viable.

 

“The B28 is not just a train; it’s a shift from technology adoption to technology creation.”

— Ministry of Railways official

Old Grenade Found in Sopore Orchard, Bomb Squad Deployed

Srinagar, Apr 26 (NVI): An old grenade was found in an orchard in north Kashmir’s Sopore area on Sunday, prompting the deployment of a bomb disposal squad, Police said.

The explosive was noticed by a local resident of Warpora Sopore, while he was working in his orchard, they said.

He immediately informed Police Post Warpora, following which a police team along with a bomb disposal (BD) squad rushed to the spot.

The area was secured and necessary precautionary measures were taken, They said, adding that further details are awaited.(NVI)

Avalanche Hits Vehicles Near Zoji La Pass; No Casualties Reported

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Srinagar, Apr 25 (NVI) — An avalanche hit vehicle several near Shaitan Nallah at Zoji La Pass on Saturday, officials said.

No casualties have been reported so far to initial inputs.

Rescue teams have rushed to the spot and efforts are underway to clear the affected stretch and ensure the safety of stranded persons, they said.

Further details are awaited.(NVI)

DRDO Unveils Advanced Armoured Platforms for Armed Forces

New Delhi, Apr 25 (NVI) :Advanced armoured platforms—tracked and wheeled—developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) were unveiled on Saturday, officials said.

The platforms, designed by the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), were unveiled by Secretary, Department of Defence (R&D) and DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat at the DRDO laboratory in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra.

Developed to meet emerging operational requirements of the armed forces, both platforms are equipped with an indigenously designed 30 mm crewless turret with enhanced mobility, firepower and protection features.

Officials said the platforms are powered by high-performance engines with automatic transmission, offering high power-to-weight ratio, superior speed, and advanced gradient and obstacle negotiation capabilities. They provide STANAG Level 4 and 5 protection with modular blast and ballistic shielding.

The amphibious platforms are capable of crossing water obstacles using hydro-jet propulsion, enhancing battlefield flexibility.

The 30 mm crewless turret is integrated with a 7.62 mm PKT gun and is configured to launch anti-tank guided missiles. The base design allows for multiple role configurations.

The platforms currently have about 65 per cent indigenous content, which is planned to be scaled up to 90 per cent.

The manufacturing has been carried out in collaboration with private sector firms Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Bharat Forge Limited, along with support from MSMEs, officials said.

Senior DRDO scientists, industry representatives and officials from various laboratories associated with armament and combat engineering systems attended the event.(NVI)

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