Rafiabad: The Government Girls Middle School Rawoocha in Rafiabad has been facing serious infrastructure challenges, leaving students to study in unsafe and inadequate conditions, sparking concern among residents and parents.

The school building has fallen into a dilapidated state, with damaged structures and a weakened boundary wall posing significant safety risks. Locals said that even the fencing around the campus is in poor condition, making the premises insecure.

A major issue highlighted by residents is the lack of proper sanitation facilities. The school has only a single common washroom for both male and female students, which itself is in a deteriorated condition. Parents expressed concern that the absence of separate washrooms is particularly affecting girl students and creating discomfort.

The situation worsens during the rainy season, as water seeps into classrooms, disrupting academic activities. Locals said that classrooms often get waterlogged, making it difficult for students to continue their studies. They added that the building has already been declared almost unsafe by school authorities.

Due to a shortage of space, the corridor of the school building has been converted into makeshift classrooms to accommodate students. Residents said this arrangement is far from suitable and hampers the overall learning environment.

Speaking with us, locals voiced strong concern over the condition of the school. “It is unfortunate that in the 21st century, schools are functioning in such a dilapidated state. Children deserve better facilities,” a resident said.

Another local resident, while speaking with us, appealed to the government for immediate intervention. “We demand a new school building, proper boundary walls, and separate washrooms for boys and girls so that students can study in a safe and healthy environment,” he added.

Residents have urged the authorities to prioritise the issue and take swift action to improve the infrastructure and ensure a safe learning environment for the students.

Vinod Bhat

New Delhi: In light of the evolving situation in West Asia, the Government of India remains actively engaged in ensuring preparedness and continuity across key sectors through coordinated response measures. The following update outlines the steps being taken with regard to energy supply, maritime operations, and support to Indian nationals in the region:

Energy Supply and Fuel Availability

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas provided an update on the current fuel supply situation, outlining measures being taken to ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG in the context of the evolving situation in West Asia. It was noted that:

Public Advisory and Citizen Awareness

• Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchase of petrol, diesel and LPG as the Govt is making all efforts to ensure availability of petrol, diesel and LPG.
• Beware of rumours and rely on official sources for correct information.
• LPG consumers are requested to use digital booking platforms and avoid visiting distributors.
• Citizens are encouraged to use alternate fuels such as PNG and electric or induction cooktops.
• All citizens are requested to make necessary efforts to conserve energy in their daily use during the current situation.

Government Preparedness and Supply Management Measures

• Despite the ongoing geopolitical situation, the Government has ensured that 100% supply is being made to Domestic LPG, Domestic PNG and CNG (Transport).
• For commercial LPG, priority has been given to hospitals, educational institutions. Besides this, priority has also been given to pharma, steel, automobile, seed, agriculture, etc. In addition to this, supply of 5 Kg FTL to migrant labour is also doubled based on avg. daily supply on 2nd and 3rd March 2026.
• The Government has already implemented several rationalisation measures on both the supply and demand side, including enhancing refinery production, increasing the booking interval from 21 to 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural areas and prioritising sectors for supply.
• Alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal have been made available to ease pressure on LPG demand.
• The Ministry of Coal has directed Coal India and Singareni Collieries to supply additional coal to States for distribution to small and medium consumers.
• States have been advised to facilitate new PNG connections for domestic and commercial consumers.

Coordinated Efforts with States/UTs and Institutional Mechanisms

• State Governments are empowered under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and LPG Control Order, 2000 to monitor supply and act against hoarding and black marketing.
• Govt. of States/UTs have to play a primary role in monitoring and regulating supply situation of essential commodities including Petrol, Diesel and LPG. Govt. of India has reiterated the same via multiple letters and VCs to all States/UTs.
• The Government of India vide letters dated 27.03.2026 and 02.04.2026 have stressed the need for proactive public communication to reassure citizens regarding adequate fuel availability. Regular review meetings are being held with States/UTs. In this context, meetings were convened on 02.04.2026 (Chaired by Secretary, MoPNG) and on 06.04.2026 (Chaired by Secretary, MoPNG along with Secretaries of I&B and Consumer Affairs), wherein the following was emphasized:
  • To issue daily press briefings and issue regular public advisories.
  • To actively monitor and counter fake news / misinformation on social media.
  • To intensify daily enforcement drives by District admin and to continue raids and inspections in coordination with OMCs
  • To issue Commercial LPG allocation orders within their States/UTs
  • To issue SKO allocation orders for additional SKO allotted to the States/UTs.
  • To promote PNG adoptions and alternate fuels.
  • To prioritize LPG supply, especially for domestic needs, and adopt targeted distribution of 5 kg FTL cylinders to ensure supply stability.
• All States/UTs have established control rooms and district monitoring committees to curb hoarding and black marketing.
• Many states/UTs are issuing/carrying out press briefs.

Enforcement and Monitoring Actions

• Enforcement actions continue across the country to curb hoarding and black marketing of LPG. Yesterday, more than 1700 raids were conducted across the country.
• PSU OMCs have strengthened and continued surprise inspections and imposed penalties on 342 LPG distributorships, and 73 LPG distributorships have been suspended till yesterday.

LPG Supply

Domestic LPG Supply Status:

• LPG supply continues to be affected by the prevailing geopolitical situation.
• Supply of LPG to domestic households has been prioritized.
• No dry-outs have been reported at LPG distributorships.
• Online LPG cylinder bookings increased to 99% on industry basis yesterday.
• Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) based deliveries have increased to around 94% to prevent diversion. DAC is received on the registered mobile number of the consumer.

Commercial LPG Supply and Allocation Measures:

• Total commercial LPG allocation has been increased to about 70% of pre-crisis levels, including 10% reform-linked allocation.
• The Government of India vide letter dated 06.04.2026 has conveyed that daily quantity of 5 Kg FTL cylinders in each State available for disbursal to migrant labourers is being doubled based on the average daily supply (Number of cylinders) to migrant labourers during 2nd-3rd March 2026 beyond the limit of 20% mentioned in letter dated 21.03.2026. These 5 Kg FTL cylinders are at disposal of the State Government for supplying only to migrant labourers in their State with assistance of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
• Since the month of April 2026, more than 22.78 Lakh – 5 Kg FTL cylinders have been sold.
• Since 3rd April 2026, PSU OMCs have organised more than 9980 awareness camps for 5 Kg FTL Cylinders, wherein more than 1,71,000 – 5Kg FTL cylinders were also sold.
• A three-member committee of Executive Directors of IOCL, HPCL and BPCL, in consultation with State authorities and industry bodies finalises the plan for the sale of Commercial LPG in the States/UTs.
• Since April 2026, a total of 2,05,849 MT (Equivalent to more than 108.34 Lakh of 19 Kg LPG Cylinders) of Commercial LPG has been sold.
• Since April 2026, a total of 10698 MT of Auto LPG has been sold by PSU OMCs.

Natural Gas Supply and PNG Expansion Initiatives

• Consumers have been prioritised with 100% supplies to D-PNG and CNG-Transport.
• The overall gas allocation to fertilizer plants has been enhanced to approximately 98% of their six-month average consumption.

• Additionally, gas supply to other industrial and commercial sectors, including supplies through CGD networks, is enhanced up to 80%.
• CGD entities have been advised to prioritize PNG connections for commercial establishments such as hotels, restaurants and canteens across all their GAs, to address concerns regarding the availability of commercial LPG.
• CGD companies including IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas and BPCL are offering incentives for domestic and commercial PNG connections.
• States/UTs and Central Ministries have been requested to expedite approvals required for expansion of CGD networks.
• The Government of India vide letter dated 18.03.2026 has offered all States/UTs additional 10% allocation of commercial LPG to States provided they can help in long term transition from LPG to PNG.
• 22 States/UTs are receiving additional commercial LPG allocation linked to PNG expansion reforms.
• The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways vide letter dated 24.03.26 has adopted an ‘Accelerated Approval Framework for CGD infrastructure with reduced timelines’ as a special for 3 months to process applications pertaining to CGD infrastructure on priority.
• The Government of India vide Gazette dated 24.03.2026 has notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution (Through Laying, Building, Operation and Expansion of Pipelines and Other Facilities) Order, 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. The Order provides a streamlined and time-bound framework for laying and expanding pipelines across the country, addressing delays in approvals and access to land, and enabling faster development of natural gas infrastructure, including in residential areas. It is expected to accelerate PNG network growth, enhance last-mile connectivity, and support the transition to cleaner fuels, thereby strengthening energy security and advancing India’s gas-based economy.
• PNGRB has directed CGD entities to expedite D-PNG connections. Also, the National PNG Drive 2.0 has been extended till 30.06.2026 to sustain momentum in PNG expansion.
• To encourage a cleaner, more secure and self-reliant energy future, the Government of India has developed a model draft State CBG Policy. The model policy is intended to serve as a comprehensive flexible guiding framework to enable States to create their own investor-friendly and implementation-oriented ecosystem for CBG development. Those States which opt for this, will be prioritized for the next tranche of additional allocation of commercial LPG.
• MoEFCC vide order dated 07.04.2026 has directed CPCB to issue necessary directions to SPCB/PCCs for granting consent to establish or consent to operate within 15 days for CGD network/infrastructure.
• Since March 2026, about 5.96 Lakh PNG connections have been gasified and infrastructure has been created for additional 2.68 Lakh connections, taking the total to 8.64 lakh connections. Further, about 6.66 Lakh customers have been registered for new connections.
• Till 01.05.2026, more than 43,350 PNG consumers have surrendered their LPG connections via MYPNGD.in website.

Crude Position and Refinery Operations

• All refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories, while sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel are being maintained.
• Domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption.
• An inter-ministerial Joint Working Group (JWG) has been set up to ensure availability of petrochemical feedstock supply for the domestic market. Subsequently, Govt. of India vide order dated 01.04.2026 has permitted Oil Refinery companies including Petrochemical Complexes to make certain minimum quantities of C3 & C4 streams available for critical sectors as determined by Centre for High Technology (CHT).
• Based on the requests received from the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Chemicals & Petro Chemicals (DCPC), Dept. for Promotion of Industry and internal trade (DPIIT), the provision for 1000 MT/day, from LPG pool, has been made for Pharma and Chemical sector companies.

• Since 9^th April 2026, more than 10,000 MT of propylene and more than 1200 MT of Butyl Acrylate has been sold by Mumbai, Kochi, Vizag, Chennai, Mathura and Gujarat refineries to Chemical, Pharma and Paint Industry.

Retail Fuel Availability and pricing Measures

• All Retail outlets are operating normally across the country.
• The Middle East crisis has led to an abnormal increase in crude prices; however, to protect consumers, the Government of India has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre.
• Govt. of India vide Gazette notification dated 30.04.2026 has reduced the export levy on diesel from Rs. 55.50 per litre to Rs. 23 per litre and on ATF from Rs. 42 per litre to Rs. 33 per litre.

• Panic Buying is observed at certain Retail Outlets due to rumours. It is informed that there are adequate stocks of petrol and diesel available at all Petrol Pumps in the country. Regular Retail Prices for Petrol and Diesel are unchanged and there is no price increase at PSU OMCs Retail Outlets.

Kerosene Availability and Distribution Measures

• An additional allocation of 48,000 KL of kerosene has been provided to States/UTs over and above regular allocation.
• 18 States/UTs have issued SKO allocation orders, while Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh have indicated no requirement.

Maritime Safety and Shipping Operations

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided an update on the prevailing maritime situation in the Persian Gulf, detailing the measures being undertaken to ensure the safety and security of Indian vessels and crew in the region. It was stated that:

• The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways continues to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions, and maritime stakeholders to ensure seafarer welfare and uninterrupted maritime operations.
• All Indian seafarers in the region are safe, and no incident involving Indian-flagged vessels has been reported in the past 24 hours.
• DG Shipping Control Room has handled 8,335 calls and more than 17,838 emails since activation. In the past 24 hours, 67 calls and 144 emails have been received.
• The Ministry, through the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), has facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 2,922 Indian seafarers so far, including 30 in the last 24 hours from various locations across the Gulf region.
• Port operations across India remain normal, with no congestion reported.

Safety of Indian Nationals in the Region

The Ministry of External Affairs continues to monitor developments in the Gulf and West Asia region, with focused efforts on ensuring safety, security and welfare of the Indian community in the region. It was informed that:

• The Ministry of External Affairs is in regular contact with State Governments and Union Territories for sharing of information and better alignment of efforts.
• Indian embassies and consulates continue to operate round-the-clock helplines to provide timely assistance and are proactively assisting our citizens. They are also in close contact with the local Governments.
• Updated advisories are being issued including information related to local government guidelines, flight and travel situations, consular services and various welfare measures being undertaken for the community.
• Indian Missions are actively engaged with the resident Indian community. They are regularly interacting with the Indian community associations, organizations, professional groups, and Indian companies to address their concerns.
• Government is according high priority to the welfare of Indian seafarers in the region. Indian Missions are extending all assistance to them including coordination with the local authorities and agencies, extending consular assistance, and assisting for requests to return to India.
• The overall flight situation continues to improve with additional flights operating from the region to various destinations in India.
• In the UAE, airlines continue to operate limited commercial flights between the UAE and India based on operational and safety considerations.
• Flights continue to operate from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to various destinations in India.
• With Qatar airspace partially open, Qatar Airways is operating flights to various destinations in India. Air India, Air India Express and Indigo have started flight operations from Qatar to India.
• Kuwait airspace is open. Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways have resumed limited flight operations from Kuwait to India.
• Bahrain airspace is open. Air India Express and Gulf Air are operating flights from Bahrain to various destinations in India. Indigo is also planning to resume flight operations from Bahrain to India from today.
• Iraq airspace is open with limited flight operations to destinations in the region, which can be used for onward travel to India.
• Iran airspace is partially open for cargo and chartered flights. Indian nationals are advised to avoid travelling to Iran and those already there are urged to leave via land border routes, with Indian Embassy’s support. So far, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has facilitated movement of 2,490 Indian nationals out of Iran through land border routes.

SRINAGAR, May 01: Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar today accorded a warm farewell to four of its employees on the occasion of their superannuation.

On this occasion, Prof. (Dr.) Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal, Government Medical College Srinagar, felicitated the retiring officials viz.Farahat Qadir, Estate Officer; Nazir Ahmad Bhat, Senior Photographer; Syed Showkat Hussain, Lab Attendant and Mohammad Yousuf Thoker, Senior Lab Technician and conveyed her best wishes for their future endeavors. She acknowledged their long-standing and dedicated service, highlighting their significant contributions to institutional development, administrative efficiency, and the maintenance of professional standards. She further remarked that their commitment, integrity, and exemplary work ethic have set a benchmark for others to follow.

Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, Administrator, Associated Hospitals, GMC Srinagar, also appreciated the invaluable services rendered by the retirees. He emphasized their role in strengthening institutional systems and supporting the delivery of quality healthcare services.

The function was attended by Prof. (Dr.) Saleem Itoo, Deputy Academic Registrar; Tahleela Asmat, Chief Accounts Officer; Dr. Nadia Khanday, Accounts Officer, Associated Hospitals; Bashir Ahmad Bhat, Personnel Officer; Shabir Ahmad, Assistant Director Planning, and other officers and officials of GMC Srinagar.
The event concluded with the presentation of mementos as a token of appreciation and gratitude for the dedicated services of the retiring employees.

KD NEWS SERVICE

SRINAGAR, May 1: A vibrant and impactful awareness rally was organized under the banner of the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan in collaboration with Rehmatul-lil-Alameen Foundation International, bringing together diverse sections of society in a unified stand against drug abuse. The initiative aimed to highlight the growing concerns around substance abuse while promoting a collective vision of a healthier, addiction-free nation.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of civil society, youth groups, volunteers, and local officials, all of whom came together to demonstrate a shared responsibility toward eliminating the menace of narcotics. The presence of young participants added particular energy to the rally, symbolizing hope and determination for a future free from addiction.

Carrying placards with powerful messages and raising slogans advocating a drug-free lifestyle, participants marched through key areas to capture public attention. The slogans echoed calls for awareness, resilience, and the urgent need to address the root causes of drug dependency. Messages such as “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life” and “Healthy Youth, Strong Nation” resonated throughout the rally, creating a strong emotional and social impact.

Speakers at the event addressed the gathering with a sense of urgency and responsibility. They emphasized that drug abuse is not merely an individual issue but a societal challenge that requires a coordinated response. Highlighting the importance of early intervention, they called upon families, educational institutions, and community leaders to remain vigilant and proactive. The role of parents and teachers in identifying early signs of substance abuse was particularly stressed, along with the need to create supportive environments where individuals can seek help without stigma.

The program also underscored the significance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the general public. Speakers noted that while enforcement plays a crucial role in curbing the supply of narcotics, long-term success depends equally on awareness, education, and community engagement.

Organizers from the Rehmatul-lil-Alameen Foundation International reiterated their commitment to continuing such initiatives, stating that sustained awareness campaigns are essential to bring about lasting behavioral change. They emphasized that the fight against drug abuse must be continuous and inclusive, involving every section of society.

The rally concluded with a renewed pledge from participants to actively contribute toward building a “Nasha Mukht Bharat.” The event not only raised awareness but also strengthened community bonds, sending a clear message that collective action remains the most powerful tool in overcoming the challenge of drug abuse.

SRINAGAR, May 1: Lieutenant General Balbir Singh on Friday assumed charge as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the strategically crucial XV Corps (Chinar Corps), reinforcing leadership at a time when security dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir remain under close watch.

In 2023, as a Major General, he took over as GOC of Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) Victor, based in Awantipora, succeeding Maj Gen Prashant Srivastava. The Victor Force is responsible for operations in south Kashmir, an area that has historically witnessed significant militant activity. During his tenure, Lt Gen Singh worked closely with formations under the Chinar Corps and Northern Command, contributing to coordinated security operations and strategic reviews.