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The significant drop in housing inventory in Beijing has sent ripples across the real estate sector, sparking discussions on the underlying reasons behind this phenomenon. Some analysts interpret this as a positive sign, indicating a healthy demand for housing in the capital city. However, others warn that a sharp decline in inventory could lead to a further increase in property prices, exacerbating the affordability crisis for potential homebuyers.
Targeted operation to be launched in Balochistan: CM Bugti Government is making all out efforts to recover Musavir Kakar, says Sarfaraz Bugti QUETTA: In order to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the province, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti on Monday said the authorities would launch a targeted operation in the territory. Last week, the Apex Committee — a civil-military body —formally approved a comprehensive military operation against terrorist organisations operating in the province. The top civil-military body gave its nod to a military operation in Balochistan against terrorist groups including the Majeed Brigade, BLA, BLF and BRAS who are targeting innocent civilians and foreign nationals to scuttle Pakistan’s economic progress by creating insecurity at the behest of hostile external powers, read a statement issued by the Prime Minister Office. During an interaction with journalists in Quetta, CM Bugti announced that the targeted operations would be conducted in the areas where there were "Ferrari camps" of the militant organisation. Responding to a question, the chief minister said that the government was making all out efforts to recover Musavir Kakar. Setting aside the criticism, he said the political parties opposing the military operation in the province should tell if there is any other solution to the rising incident of terrorism in the province. The development came amid surge in terror attacks on security forces and civilians, with the latest deadly suicide explosion claiming at least 27 lives and left over 60 others injured at Quetta's railway station earlier this month. It is pertinent to mention here that the Federal Apex Committee of the National Action Plan was held with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in the chair and the agenda of the meeting was focused on the “Reinvigorating Pakistan’s Counter Terrorism (CT) Campaign”. All provincial chief ministers, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, cabinet members and senior government officials were among the attendees of the important huddle. The top civil-military body highlighted the necessity of a “unified political voice and a cohesive national narrative” to effectively address these multifaceted challenges. It was emphasised that political support across party lines and complete national consensus are critical to reinvigorating the national counter-terrorism campaign under the framework of Vision Azm-e-Istehkam. The meeting also agreed upon revitalisation of National Counter-Terrorism Authority (Nacta) and the establishment of National and Provincial Intelligence Fusion and Threat Assessment Centre. The statement said civil-military leadership adopted a whole-of-system approach, incorporating diplomatic, political, informational, intelligence, socio-economic, and military efforts to address these issues comprehensively. “Specific emphasis was placed on strengthening collaboration between federal and provincial governments and between relevant institutions and ministries to ensure seamless execution of the CT [counter-terrorism] campaign. It was decided to establish District Coordination Committees under the provincial apex committees to ensure implementation of directions received from federal and provincial governments.” In addition to this, the forum demonstrated political resolve to dismantle the ecosystem of illegal spectrum and crime-terror nexus. Speaking on the occasion, COAS General Munir reiterated the Pakistan Army’s unwavering resolve to eliminate all threats to national security and provide robust support to the government’s initiatives aimed at ensuring peace and stability. All those who create obstruction in Pakistan’s security or try to stop them from performing their duty would face the music, he added. The army chief also called for putting up a collective fight against the menace of terrorism. “Every Pakistani is a soldier in the war against terrorism, whether in uniform or not.” He further said that the Constitution mandated them to ensure the internal and external security of Pakistan. The COAS maintained that the personnel of armed forces and other law enforcement agencies were compensating for shortcomings in governance on a daily basis through the sacrifices of their martyrs. At the conclusion, PM Shehbaz directed all the stakeholders to pursue the outlined initiatives with vigor, ensuring their timely implementation. Belarusian minister admires Pakistani handcrafted rickshaw Punjab announces relaxing smog restrictions as air quality improves Islamabad, Pindi admins extend closure of educational institutions Bokhari terms PTI protest 'May 9 Part-II' after cop killed in clashes
5. Government Regulations and Policies:It wasn’t the first time I had traveled this road, the road that winds through Pulwama to Shopian—nor the first time I had been jolted out of the lulling rhythm of the journey by the haunting sight of charred houses standing starkly amidst the blazing red of the Chinar trees. This time, however, what caught my attention were the clusters of vehicles—public and private—gathered outside a newly constructed building. A modest, single-story structure, it bore a sign that read Prasad Joo Khan Heart Center . The scene was lively, with people of all ages moving in and out. Some stood by a small tea stall outside, sipping their tea. An ambulance sped up the road and parked at the entrance, adding to the sense of urgency and life that pulsed through the place. It was a stark contrast to the somber image that the village of Haal had carried for decades. Haal, located at the brink of Pulwama and Shopian, had long been a living testament to loss and grief, a village marked by the absence of those who once called it home. In the early 1990s, when the conflict in Kashmir took a violent turn, around 80 Pandit families who lived here began to leave. Over the years, almost all homes were abandoned, and scores were burnt down, leaving behind empty shells and memories of lives that once thrived. The newly opened Heart Center, brimming with activity and hope, seemed to reclaim a space long defined by sorrow. Prasad Joo Khan Heart Center Established by the Gauri Kaul Foundation, the Prasad Joo Khan Heart Center Haal is the first and only cardiac facility situated outside the capital city of Kashmir. This center provides essential cardiac care and diagnostic services to neighboring districts, where such facilities are otherwise scarce. It is a fully equipped diagnostic and treatment center addressing not only heart conditions but also other non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The Center’s facilities include ECG, echocardiography, ultrasound, treadmill testing, long-term ECG monitoring, and head-up tilt testing. Critical blood biochemistry tests are available, including rapid point-of-care diagnostics that provide results in just 10 minutes, aiding in the detection of heart failure, heart attacks, and blood clotting disorders. Additionally, the Center has a well-stocked pharmacy managed by a certified pharmacist, ensuring that patients have immediate access to necessary medications. Patients can complete their assessments, receive diagnostic results, and start treatment all in a single visit. If advanced care is required, patients are transported by ambulance to larger hospitals. The Center was established between 2020 and 2021, with funding from the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC). It was formally inaugurated in September 2022 by Dr. Alka Mittal, then CEO of ONGC. The facility is located on land that has personal significance; it is an ancestral property of Prof Upendra Kaul, a renowned cardiologist who spent his early years in Haal village. Prof Kaul’s career has been distinguished: he served as a Prof of cardiology at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), along with several other esteemed institutions including the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, G. B. Pant Hospital, Batra Hospital, and Fortis Health Care. He also held prominent roles as Executive Director and Dean at Fortis Health Care in New Delhi. A former president of the Cardiological Society of India and the SAARC Cardiac Society, Prof Kaul is a Fellow of both the American College of Cardiology and the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS). With over 450 published medical papers, he was honored with the Medtronic Award for Best Scientific Paper in 1983. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Dr. B. C. Roy Award in 1999 and the Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian honor, in 2006. Prof Kaul considers the Heart Center as his way of giving back to the community. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to return here,” he reflects. “I’m present every Thursday, and with God’s grace, we have treated many severe cases of heart failure—patients who were misdiagnosed as having pneumonia or post-pregnancy breathing issues. Thanks to the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment, these patients recovered dramatically. We have point-of-care tests available, which allow us to make quick and accurate diagnoses. This not only reduces the need for multiple visits but also minimizes the travel burden for patients. We use heart failure markers, HbA1C for diabetes management, and a variety of other diagnostic tools to ensure comprehensive care.” Although the Center’s services are not free, there are provisions to assist those who cannot afford the costs. “The goal isn’t to deny care based on financial constraints, but to offer specialized services that are otherwise unavailable in rural Kashmir,” Prof Kaul explains. “Without this center, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other NCDs would often be diagnosed too late or treated improperly. Our patient base comes from all over—Shopian, Kulgam, Pulwama, Anantnag, Rajouri, and even Poonch. One thing I’ve noticed is that patients in this area tend to be very diligent about following treatment plans.” He envisions transforming the Heart Center into a full-fledged heart hospital, capable of performing procedures like angioplasty, but acknowledges that current financial limitations are a barrier. “If funding materializes, it’s certainly within reach,” he says. “At present, we have a dedicated team, including a cardiologist, a general physician, and a nephrologist, and many other doctors.” Heart on Wheels An additional grant of ₹ 80 lakh from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) is set to fund a mobile “Cardiac Clinic on Wheels” by the end of the year or early next year. This mobile unit will be equipped with diagnostic facilities such as ECG, a portable echocardiography machine, and on-site blood sampling equipment, enabling tests that yield results within a few hours. This mobile service will visit villages across South Kashmir, following a pre-announced schedule. The first installment of ₹ 20 lakh has already been received, and the clinic is expected to be operational early next year. Patients requiring advanced care will be transferred to the Heart Center, and if necessary, to larger hospitals like SKIMS Soura or SMHS Hospital. All in a Day As Prof Kaul shares these plans, the waiting area of the Center continues to fill with patients. Some are visiting for the first time, others are regular attendees, for follow-ups. He returns to his desk, beginning with an elderly man in his late 60s who anxiously hands over medical documents. “Is my heart alright?” the man asks urgently. Prof Kaul checks his blood pressure, carefully jots down from his investigations, asks a few questions about his medication. The man answers impatiently, and repeats his question: Is my heart alright? Prof Kaul looks at him and answers: It is alright for now, the stent has set the things right. But if you don’t stop smoking, it is not going to be alright. The man’s stern look gives way to a shy smile. “I have stopped,” he answers unconvincingly. The next patient is a woman in 50s, accompanied by two female family members. She has had heart failure, but has dramatically improved ‘in just one week’ as she puts it. She has adhered to medication and wants to know if she can go about her daily routine of household chores. “Not yet. Let others take care of the house and of you for sometime. We need to perform a procedure on you,” Prof Kaul says, while explaining to her family members where and how to approach the Cardiology department at SKIMS, Soura. “We don’t have everything possible in this center. They will take care,” he says while jotting down names of a few doctors on the prescription. The group of women leave the room heavy hearted, when a young female walks in with her father. She shows her ECG reports and a few blood tests. She has been to a few nearby Government hospitals in the recent past. “I have pain in chest and it recurs very frequently,” she complains. After examination, Prof Kaul tells her to get a few more blood tests done. The girl is preparing for a competitive exam. Prof Kaul tells her to relax and take less stress. “Let us rule out there is nothing else, but it seems your pain and fast heart rate is due to stress,” he tells her, and reassures her father. The beeline of patients continues. “I will be here the whole day, these people wait for me the entire week,” he says. In the waiting hall, patients exchange stories about other healthcare facilities they’ve visited, often discussing common issues like uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension. Addressing Non-Communicable Diseases Kashmir and Ladakh face a significant public health challenge: nearly one-third of adults in these regions have hypertension. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 30 percent of adults in these areas are hypertensive. Prof Kaul’s camps in south Kashmir, extending up to Banihal, have revealed that hypertension, often due to non-compliance with treatment, sedentary lifestyles, and inadequate follow-ups, is a widespread issue. “There’s a knowledge gap concerning proper treatment and lifestyle modifications,” he points out. The Gauri Kaul Foundation has worked with local physicians, advocating for combination drugs to enhance compliance, reducing the chance of missed doses. In a study published in the Indian Heart Journal titled Uncontrolled Hypertension in Rural Kashmir, Prof Kaul and his team reported that 63 percent of known hypertensive patients in rural Kashmir had uncontrolled blood pressure. The study highlighted a particularly high prevalence among individuals aged 40 to 60 : 49 percent, followed by those over 60: 40 percent. Prof Kaul emphasizes that “hypertension is a global problem, but accurate diagnosis and consistent, correct treatment are critical.” To address this, the GKF’s SUPPORT program has empowered communities to take charge of their health. In collaboration with St. John’s Medical College Bangalore, they’ve initiated educational programs on blood pressure monitoring and when to seek medical help. Expanding Services and Honoring Roots Beyond J&K, the Gauri Kaul Foundation has expanded its outreach by organizing health camps in Manipur and Maharashtra, and it has run cervical cancer screening programs in Kashmir. One of the most impactful projects is the Telemedicine and Critical Care Ambulance initiative, funded by the CSR of IOCL. This program brings specialized healthcare to remote and difficult-to-access areas, such as Kupwara’s Machil sector near the Line of Control. In partnership with the Rashtriya Rifles, the Foundation operates a tele-unit that can perform ECGs, conduct crucial blood tests, and connect patients to distant physicians for immediate guidance. Essential medicines are also stocked in the unit. A similar telemedicine unit has been set up at Jagati migrant township near Katra, Jammu, serving displaced Pandit communities who left the Valley in the 1990s. In addition to these efforts, the Foundation has collaborated with local healthcare workers to organize cervical cancer screening initiatives. These camps, held periodically, have raised awareness about preventive health measures and provided vital screenings for women in rural areas. In regions like Manipur and Maharashtra, the Foundation’s outreach has focused on broader health concerns, including NCDs, maternal health, and basic preventive care. Prof Kaul believes in the importance of giving back to one’s roots. “I returned because this is where I grew up—my family’s home was in Haal village,” he says. “Our home is just memories and an abandoned house in Haal, but my connection to this place is strong. People in these rural regions need specialized care. We can save more lives if we expand access to advanced cardiac care. It’s essential for more healthcare professionals to support this mission. Doctors from rural areas have a unique responsibility to their communities.” WHAT’S IN THE NAME: PRASAD JOO KHAN The grandfather of Prof Upendra Kaul, Prasad Joo, worked with the Afghans and was given the title of Khan. The revenue records have their family name as Joo Khan. When Prof Kaul’s father pursued higher studies outside Kashmir, he found people amused by his name – Prem Nath Khan. Prem Nath, out of urge to avoid attention, changed his surname to Kaul, the common surname of Kashmiri pandits. “Thus, I became a Kaul, while my grandfather was Joo-Khan,” Prof Kaul shares with a smile.
In conclusion, as we approach the final chapter of the Suicide Squad saga, let us celebrate the journey we have taken, the challenges we have overcome, and the bonds we have formed. The game may be ending, but the spirit of the Suicide Squad will continue to inspire and unite players around the world. Thank you, Suicide Squad, for the adventure of a lifetime.With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing demand for personalized learning experiences, CloudSky's move to introduce C-end educational hardware signifies a major shift towards more interactive and engaging educational tools. These cutting-edge devices are designed to enhance the learning process, making it more immersive and enjoyable for students of all ages.
NFL NOTESThe five-part series will debut globally on December 10, following elite global players on and off the field as they compete in the US Open Polo Championship in Wellington, Florida. A trailer for the series titled Polo, executive produced by Harry and Meghan, was released on Thursday, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the “fast-paced and glamorous world of polo”. In a statement, Harry said: “This series offers audiences an unprecedented, behind-the-scenes look into the passion and determination driving some of the world’s elite polo players, revealing the grit behind the glamour. “We’re proud to showcase the true depth and spirit of the sport — and the intensity of its high-stakes moments.” It has been produced by the Sussexes’ Archewell Productions, having previously released three documentaries with Netflix as part of a multimillion-pound deal with the streaming giant. Heart Of Invictus, which aired last August, followed a group of service members on their road to the Invictus Games, the Paralympic-style sporting competition set up by Harry in 2014 for injured and sick military personnel and veterans. Netflix also released the documentary series Live To Lead and the controversial six-part Harry & Meghan documentary in December 2022. Harry and Meghan moved to the US in 2020 after stepping down from royal duties.Sam Darnold leads game-winning drive in OT and Vikings beat Bears 30-27 after blowing late lead