Sports

England captain Stokes announces retirement from international cricket

LONDON — England captain Ben Stokes made the dramatic decision Sunday to announce his imminent retirement from international cricket midway through the deciding third test against New Zealand. “This is my last two days as your captain and my last two days representing England,” Stokes told his England teammates inside the dressing room at the […]

Kashmir

Airtel expands mobile network along Amarnath yatra routes to enhance connectivity

SRINAGAR (KIMS) — Bharti Airtel on Friday announced the expansion of its mobile network along the Amarnath Yatra routes, strengthening connectivity for pilgrims, security personnel, and local authorities during the annual pilgrimage. According to a company statement, Airtel has deployed new network sites at Chandanwari, Pissu Top, and Betaab Valley, establishing mobile coverage along the […]

Ladakh

LG Saxena launches employment-linked skill training programme for Ladakhi youth

LEH — Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Friday launched an employment-linked skill training programme for Ladakhi youth, under which 36 shortlisted candidates from all seven districts of the Union Territory will undergo industry-oriented residential training in New Delhi with assured placement assistance. The first batch, comprising 34 girls and two boys, was flagged off […]

Middle East

Powerful general in Iran emerges from hiding as Tehran prepares for Khamenei’s funeral

DUBAI — A powerful general who leads Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard emerged from hiding as Tehran prepared Friday for the dayslong funeral for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Photos published online by Iranian state media showed Gen. Ahmad Vahidi attending a meeting about the funeral of Khamenei, 86, then sitting alongside his casket […]