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The Presspact is a global news organization committed to providing calm, thoughtful, and award-winning coverage for independent thinkers. We tackle the tough conversations and divisive issues that others may shy away from, never avoiding the hard problems. But in every story we tell, you'll find the qualities that help forge solutions and bring us together—qualities like respect, resilience, hope, and fairness. At The Presspact, we believe that even in the face of the most complex challenges, there’s always room for dialogue, understanding, and a path forward.


PRESSPACT

Mansoureh Khojasteh, wife of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has died from injuries sustained in US-Israeli strikes that also killed Khamenei. Multiple family members were reportedly killed. Conflict escalates in Iran, Israel, Lebanon, and the Gulf with rising casualties.

#Iran #AliKhamenei #MansourehKhojasteh #PRESSPACT

3 months ago | [YT] | 1

PRESSPACT

Shaam-e-Adaa
A Kathak Dance Presentation on Hindi Film Songs
Concept and Direction: Guru Archana Anuradha

Mumbai, 14th September 2025 — The graceful rhythms of Kathak will blend with the timeless melodies of Hindi cinema at Shaam-e-Adaa, a unique dance presentation conceived and directed by renowned Kathak exponent Guru Archana Anuradha. This much-anticipated cultural evening will be held at the DG Khetan School Auditorium, 9th Floor, Off Sunder Nagar, Malad (West), Mumbai, on Saturday, 14th September at 6 PM.

Shaam-e-Adaa promises to be an enchanting celebration where classical dance meets the golden era of Bollywood music. Through the intricate footwork, expressive abhinaya, and soulful storytelling that Kathak is known for, the performance will reinterpret iconic Hindi film songs with elegance and reverence.

Guru Archana Anuradha, known for her innovative choreography and deep-rooted training in the Lucknow gharana of Kathak, brings a fresh perspective by weaving cinematic melodies into classical frameworks. Her direction ensures a performance that appeals to both connoisseurs of classical dance and lovers of Hindi film music.

This event is a must-attend for those who appreciate the rich cultural tapestry of India and the enduring charm of Bollywood’s musical legacy. Audiences can expect a soulful evening filled with nostalgia, rhythm, and artistic brilliance.

9 months ago | [YT] | 0

PRESSPACT

Jhelum crosses danger mark in Srinagar, Dal Dwellers asked to remain alert: LCMA Issues Advisory

9 months ago | [YT] | 0

PRESSPACT

Bliss Star Hospital Set to Raise the Bar for Medical Care in South Kashmir

PRESSPACT DESK
Anantnag, July 14: In a major boost to the healthcare landscape of South Kashmir, Bliss Star Hospital is all set to open its doors in Anantnag, promising state-of-the-art facilities and compassionate care.

With a mission of delivering “Care with Compassion,” the hospital aims to set new benchmarks in private healthcare across the region.

The multi-specialty hospital will feature modern infrastructure and a team of reputed doctors from across the country and abroad. Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Aijaz Naik, Founding Director, emphasized the region’s need for advanced and reliable healthcare. “Anantnag was long in need of a sophisticated medical facility, and Bliss Star Hospital will strive to bridge that gap,” he said.

Backing the initiative, Dr. AG Ahangar, former Director of Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences and renowned CVTS surgeon, remarked, “People in South Kashmir deserve quality healthcare, and facilities like Bliss Star are a step in the right direction. Better healthcare should be a right, not a privilege.”

Co-founder and Director Imran Khan, who has returned after over a decade in Dubai, said he was driven by the vision to give back to his homeland. “We’re bringing a healthcare system that is affordable, compassionate, and meets international standards. This is not just a hospital; it’s a promise to serve our people,” he said.

Bliss Star Hospital is expected to redefine healthcare accessibility and quality for thousands in the region, marking a significant step forward for South Kashmir’s medical ecosystem.

11 months ago | [YT] | 1

PRESSPACT

CS for time-bound upgradation of services at SKIMS, Soura

Reviews institute’s functioning, plans for future expansion

SRINAGAR, JUNE 23:In a high-level meeting convened today, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo had a comprehensive review of functioning of the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura.

Present in the meeting were Secretary, Health & Medical Education (H&ME); Secretary, Public Works Department (PWD); Director, SKIMS; Principal, SKIMS Medical College; Chief Engineer (Central), R&B and other key officers from the Health department.

The Chief Secretary articulated a clear vision for the future of SKIMS, stressing the imperative to exert every effort to expand the academic offerings as per the commitments made by SKIMS administration. He specifically called for rapid addition of seats to specialization courses, with a particular focus on the proposed 44 DM/ MCH courses and a substantial increase of 130 MD/MS/ PGD seats across 16 critical specialities. He asked to ensure these expanded opportunities are available to students as early as the next academic year.

Beyond academics, the Chief Secretary strongly urged the hospital administration to undertake a significant overhaul and upgrade of services in both the Emergency and Outpatient Department (OPD) sections. He asked for submission of high-impact proposals detailing plans for augmenting the infrastructure in these critical patient care areas, aimed at providing a much better experience and outcomes for the patients.

Dulloo asked the officers to ensure that the Liver Transplant Unit becomes fully functional by the end of this calendar year, a crucial step in advanced medical care for the region. He also advised the administration to develop and present proposals for establishment of other such specialized units, clearly outlining their anticipated outcomes and the tangible benefits they would bring to patient care at SKIMS.

Addressing the vital aspect of human resources, the Chief Secretary meticulously reviewed the current faculty and staff positions within the college, paying close attention to those vacancies that have been referred to various recruitment agencies for filling. He directed the Health department to take up the issue of filling these vacant posts on a priority basis with the respective recruiting agencies.

He emphasized the institute's core objective of carrying out quality medical research. In this context, he specifically highlighted the need for research into the reasons behind the observed high prevalence of cancer in the region compared to past trends.

Secretary, H&ME, Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, presented a comprehensive update on the status of faculty recruitment and the current positions of paramedical staff. He informed the meeting that a significant step forward had been taken with the revival of 105 faculty positions at SKIMS, which have subsequently been forwarded to the Public Service Commission for expediting recruitment against them.

The Secretary highlighted the achievement of finalization of recruitment rules for all non-gazetted posts across every medical college in the region, a crucial regulatory framework that had been pending for decades.

Noted Endocrinologist and Director, SKIMS, who is also Ex-officio Secretary to the government, Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ganai, presented an overarching picture of the institution's functioning and the vast array of services it offers. He recounted SKIMS's impressive journey of growth and transformation since its establishment in 1982, when it began with a modest capacity of just 500 beds.

Dr. Ganai elucidated upon various measures taken by the institute in adherence to earlier directives issued by the Chief Secretary. He detailed the ambitious expansion plans of the institution aimed at achieving unparalleled excellence in advancing medical care throughout the region. He further informed the meeting about significant investments in medical technology, revealing that the institute had procured machines worth approximately Rs 94 crore in the past year alone, a substantial boost to its existing machinery to enhance patient care capabilities.

The Director also provided insights into the institution's forward-looking proposals to substantially enhance the capacity of both the medical college and hospital. These included establishment of new Centres of Excellence in critical areas such as Cancer Care and organ transplant, alongside the development of futuristic departments dedicated to areas like Clinical Research, Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Medicine and Medical Health. He highlighted plans for developing an IT-based structured referral system to streamline patient flow and improve efficiency.

The meeting also included a thorough review of ongoing projects with particular attention to the timeframe for full functionality of the State Cancer Institute located within SKIMS premises, alongside an assessment of other services offered to patients there.

Finally, Principal, SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, Dr Fazlul Qadir Parray, provided valuable insights into the functioning of the college under his purview and the current status of new infrastructure raised there under the 'Flood Recovery Project'.

1 year ago (edited) | [YT] | 0

PRESSPACT

World No Tobacco Day 2025 Observed at GBHS Takinwaripora by Department of Community Medicine, GMC Srinagar

Theme: Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products_
Date: 31st May 2025

Srinagar, May 31: In commemoration of World No Tobacco Day 2025, the Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar organized a public health awareness event at Government Boys High School (GBHS), Takinwaripora, focusing on this year’s theme: “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.”

The event featured elocution and poster competitions, with enthusiastic participation from students who highlighted the manipulative strategies of the tobacco industry and advocated for a tobacco-free future. A short skit, performed by students, creatively depicted the harmful influence of tobacco marketing on youth and emphasized the need for informed decision-making.

Dr. Zaid Zahoor, from the Department of Community Medicine, delivered a compelling lecture on the detrimental effects of smoking and nicotine use, underlining both immediate and long-term health consequences.

The audience was further addressed by Prof. (Dr.) S. M. Salim Khan, Head of the Department of Community Medicine, who encouraged students to act as No-Tobacco Ambassadors within their homes and communities. He urged them to take a stand by motivating family members to quit smoking and proudly display 'Tobacco Free Home' plaques.

Dr. Touseef Ahmad Bhat, Secretary, Rotary Club, Kashmir, echoed similar sentiments and emphasized the importance of community-level advocacy to counter tobacco industry propaganda.

Dr. Sameena Yousuf, Organising Secretary of the event, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing sincere appreciation to the Headmistress of GBHS, Takinwaripora, Mtr. Nageena Shamas, and Mr. Irfan for their support and for providing a platform to engage with a demographic highly susceptible to tobacco industry influence.

The program concluded with a felicitation ceremony wherein winners of the elocution and poster competitions received certificates of merit and medals.

The students who performed the skit were awarded a trophy in recognition of their impactful performance.

All participants received certificates of participation to acknowledge their valuable contributions.


The event successfully fostered awareness and empowered students to become proactive in the fight against tobacco and nicotine use, aligning with the global mission to expose and resist industry tactics.

1 year ago | [YT] | 0

PRESSPACT

*In Poonch, HM Shah announces special package for Pak shelling hit victims*

*Says underground bunkers to be increased beyond 90,000 to protect LoC residents; Hands over appointment letters to NOKs of slain victims; No talks with Pakistan until it ends with support for terrorism; Development in J&K will continue uninterrupted*

Sajid Raina

Poonch, May 30: Announcing a special relief package for LOC residents hit by recent Pakistan shelling, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that besides adding to the existing 90,000 underground bunkers, additional steps will be taken to strengthen the safety and support of border communities.

Addressing a gathering in this frontier town after distributing appointment letters to the family members of victims killed in Pakistan shelling,

The, Union Home Minister, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said the administration is currently assessing the damage in affected areas, including Poonch, and that the Central Government will provide all possible support to the victims’ families.

He said that while no compensation or government job can truly make up for the loss these families have suffered, the initiative reflects the solidarity and support of the Jammu and Kashmir administration, the Centre, and the people of India.

He also stated that 90,000 bunkers have been built along the LoC and more will be constructed to protect civilians.

Shah said that the Indian Army had carried out "Operation Sindoor," during which terrorist infrastructure across the border was targeted and destroyed. He said that the operation was aimed only at terrorist camps and not against civilians or security personnel in Pakistan.

In response, Shah said, Pakistan carried out shelling that hit civilian areas in Jammu and Kashmir, including religious sites.

He added that the Indian Armed Forces later destroyed nine airbases in Pakistan, after which Pakistan requested a ceasefire. "India will not tolerate any terrorist activity on its soil," Shah said.

Shah said the administration, including the Lieutenant Governor and local officials, responded quickly by moving people from affected areas to safer locations and providing necessary assistance.

According to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made it clear that there can be no talks with Pakistan until it stops supporting terrorism.

"Terror and trade cannot go together, and blood and water cannot flow together. This is our policy, and we will fight every terrorist activity on our soil," he said.

Referring to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Shah said the way the people of Jammu and Kashmir stood united against terrorism sent a strong message that such acts will not be tolerated.

He also said that development work in the region would continue as it has since 2014, and security forces would carry on with their operations against terrorism. "Development in Kashmir is ongoing and will continue in the same way, no one can stop it. Kashmir will keep progressing while security forces will continue to eliminate every terrorist as they have been doing," he added. (KNO)

1 year ago | [YT] | 0

PRESSPACT

Yousmarg to be developed as next Gulmarg: Speaker Legislative Assembly

Inaugurates Rs. 1.88 cr PHC at Nagbal

BUDGAM, MAY 24: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, today said that special focus will be laid on developing the scenic tourist destination Yousmarg as the next Gulmarg.
He made these remarks while inaugurating a newly constructed Primary Health Centre (PHC) at Nagbal, in Charar-i-Sharief Constituency, built at an estimated cost of Rs. 1.88 crore.
Highlighting the government’s vision, the Speaker stated that Yousmarg will be equipped with all modern tourist facilities including a gondola, all-weather connectivity, skiing and other recreational and basic amenities. He emphasised that this development of Yousmarg will significantly uplift the socio-economic conditions of the local population living in kandi area.
Speaking on the importance of the health sector, the Speaker noted that the newly inaugurated PHC will provide essential medical services to the residents of Nagbal and adjoining Kandi areas. He said that the building, completed at a cost of Rs. 1.53 crore, will require an additional Rs. 35 lakh for construction of a boundary wall, landscaping and development of the approach road.
The Speaker said that the PHC is equipped to offer ECG, dental care, gynecology services, separate male and female wards and minor operation theatre facilities. He inspected various sections of the facility, including the general wards, minor OT, dental unit, immunization area and took stock of availability of medicine at pharmacy section.
He remarked that the establishment of this health centre will minimize the need for residents to travel long distances to avail medical services in Srinagar or Charar-i-Sharief.
The Speaker also highlighted sanctioning of other PHC buildings across the constituency, including, Kanir, Tilsara, Nowpora, Hushroo, Nilnag, Bonen, Watkalu, as well as the Sub-District Hospitals at Charar-i-Sharief, Pakherpora and Nagam, all of which are functional and catering to local healthcare needs.
“Work on PHC Challein Chhotnar and other health and educational projects will also be expedited and dedicated to the general public soon,” he said.
The Speaker reiterated that, alongside overall infrastructure development, particular attention will be given to improving the health and education sectors in Charar-i-Sharief.
“Under the Aspirational Plan for Surasyar and Pakherpora, additional funds shall be utilized on improvement of health and education sectors,” Speaker said.
He further assured that all pending development projects including macadamization of all main and inner roads in Charar-i-Sharief will be completed on priority and dedicated to the public at the earliest.
During the visit, several public delegations met the Speaker and presented their demands and grievances. He gave them a patient hearing and assured that all genuine concerns will be taken up with the concerned authorities for prompt redressal.
Among others, ADC Budgam Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, CEO Yousmarg Development Authority Bilal Khurshid, SDM Chadoora Primrose Bashir, CMO Budgam, Dr. Gulzar, Assistant Director Health, Dr Sabha and other senior officers and officials were also present on the occasion.

1 year ago | [YT] | 0

PRESSPACT

Rahul Gandhi arrives in Poonch to meet shelling-affected families


Srinagar, May 24: Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi Saturday reached Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir, where he will meet residents affected by cross-border shelling by Pakistan.

JKPCC chief, while speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that the visit aims to express solidarity with the grief-stricken families and assess the extent of property damage in the affected areas.

On his Poonch visit, Rahul Gandhi was seen accompanied by JKPCC chief Tariq Hameed Karra, senior leader G A Mir and several other senior leaders.

Karra said the visit was focused exclusively on Poonch, which has borne the brunt of the shelling, resulting in the loss of around 15 civilian lives and significant damage to homes and infrastructure.

“The primary purpose is to share the pain of those who have lost their loved ones and visit the damaged establishments. This is a visit of empathy and solidarity,” Karra said.

1 year ago | [YT] | 1

PRESSPACT

Lieutenant Governor Chairs Unified Headquarters (UHQ) Meeting

SRINAGAR: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha today chaired Unified Headquarters (UHQ) meeting at Raj Bhawan in Srinagar to review the current security scenario in the Union Territory and the security arrangements for the annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra.
The meeting was attended by Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, Chief Secretary Shri Atal Dulloo, DGP Shri Nalin Prabhat, GoC 15 Corps Lt Gen Prashant Srivastava, GoC 16 Corps Lt Gen P K Mishra, GoC 9 Corps Lt Gen Rajan Sharawat, Air Vice Marshal Vikas Sharma, AOC J&K, Principal Secretary Home Shri Chandraker Bharti, ADGP CID Shri Nitish Kumar, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and CEO SASB Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, senior officials of Armed Forces, CAPFs, J&K Police, Intelligence Agencies and civil administration.
The Lieutenant Governor congratulated armed forces, Security agencies and J&K Police for ‘Operation Sindoor’ and successfully neutralising the terrorists in the past few days.
The Lieutenant Governor directed all the security agencies for precise, intelligence-led operations to neutralise terrorists and dismantling of support cells. He discussed the key strategies and broader counter-terrorism approaches for security and intelligence agencies to achieve the goal of 'Terror-Free J&K'.
He also reviewed the security preparedness for Shri Amarnathji Yatra which is scheduled from 3rd July to 9th August 2025 and directed the senior officials of Armed Forces, CAPFs, Intelligence Agencies and J&K Police to take all necessary action to ensure safe and peaceful sacred pilgrimage.

1 year ago | [YT] | 0