Srinagar, Jul 17: President of the Private Schools' Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) Nazar-ul-Islam Baba Thursday emphasized that schools must evolve beyond conventional learning by nurturing creativity, critical thinking, research aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and entrepreneurial skills among students. In his address during the conclave "RAAH â Strengthening Pathways for Students' Innovations in Schools" as the Special Guest, he presented a roadmap for fostering innovation, incubation, and entrepreneurship across private schools in the Union Territory. He stressed that the future of education lies in creating innovation-driven ecosystems where young minds are encouraged to ideate, experiment, and develop solutions to real-world challenges. Highlighting the need for equitable access to innovation, Dr. Nazar-ul-Islam proposed the establishment of a Mobile Innovation Lab dedicated to students from border and far-flung areas of Jammu & Kashmir. The proposed initiative aims to bridge the innovation and digital divide by bringing hands-on learning in robotics, coding, artificial intelligence, electronics, design thinking, and STEM education directly to underserved schools. He urged Pi Jam Foundation to explore a collaborative partnership with the Private Schools' Association J&K to conceptualize and implement this transformative initiative so that every student, irrespective of geographical location, has access to quality innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities. The conclave was presided over by Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST). Distinguished dignitaries present included Prof. G. N. Itoo, Director, Centre for Good Governance and Policy, IUST; Prof. Parvaiz Mir, Director/CEO, CIED-IUST Foundation; Adv. Nadeem Qadiri, Founder Director, Nature School and noted environmentalist; Dr. Arif, Director Academics, JKBOSE; and Shoaib Dar, Director, Pi Jam Foundation J&K, who co-hosted the event along with an eminent panel of experts from industry, academia, and educational institutions. The conclave concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen innovation pathways for school students and build a vibrant culture of research, incubation, and entrepreneurship across Jammu & Kashmir. Various young innovators from Schools and colleges pitched their creative ideas for sead funding and handholding which was hailed all across the board.
Srinagar, July 17: In shocking remarks, National Conference Member of Parliament Choudhary Muhammad Ramzan on Thursday said if they want to bury anybody in the earth, "nobody can save him.â The NC MP made these remarks during a condolence meeting called by the National Conference in Handwara over the death of party leader Dr. Mustafa Kamal. âThey (R&B staff) shouldnât think that we are silent or gentle. If we want to bury anybody in the earth, nobody can save him,â Ramzan said during the meeting, where a banner on the wall identified it as a condolence gathering. Ramzan made the controversial statement on the same day Chief Minister Omar Abdullah cautioned against mixing politics with grief. âIf you want to do politics, then donât come to offer condolences. You come to our home to express sympathy and then step outside to make political statements. Grief and politics should not be mixed,â the CM said, adding that he would not discuss politics during the mourning period. At the Handwara meeting, according to a viral video shared on social media, Ramzan lashed out at staff of the Roads & Buildings Department, calling them âdacoitsâ and âthievesâ. âSome officers here are not right. The Executive Engineer is also among them, and we are keeping a strict vigil over them. Until today, we have forgiven him only because of his father. I know why the Executive Engineer is engaging in mischief. They are thieves, they are dacoitsâŠâ he said. Ramzan also appeared upset over the inauguration of macadamisation works by MLA Handwara, remarking: âThe MLA did not remember that he had to do anything over the past two years, during which he did nothing. The works were announced by the Deputy Chief Minister, but the MLA has come to inaugurate the macadamisation of Handwara bus stand. It was the Deputy Chief Minister who made the announcement and released the money.â The National Conferenceâled government has made it mandatory for officers to invite concerned MLAs to all official functions. Ramzan also warned his party workers to refrain from indulging in mischief. âI want to remind my workers, particularly contractors, that mischiefs made by you with the party will not be tolerated. You should choose only one path,â he said. In his speech, the NC MP repeatedly slammed and mocked the MLA from Handwara, saying the NC has 50 MLAs while the Handwara MLA is not even counted. Ramzan made the remarks at a time when the Peoples Conference headed by MLA Handwara has been invited by the National Conference to participate in the Jantar Mantar protests. Ramzanâs statement, made at the time of the Jantar Mantar protest against a party that had been invited, has raised eyebrows in political circles. âSuch statements undermine unity efforts. At least the MP, who holds one of the seniormost positions in the party, could have waited for a few days to criticize his rival. Why cannot our political leaders shun differences for a few days for the larger cause?â asked a political leader. When contacted, Ramzan said that he was busy in a condolence meeting. âArrey chhodo bhai, chhodo (leave it, leave it),â he remarked when asked about his comments. (KNO)
Srinagar Jul 16: Vice Chancellor Kashmir University (KU) Prof Nilofer Khan Thursday rejected the perception that distance education was meant only for students unable to secure admission in the regular system, saying that learners enrolled in the centre are equally capable and deserving of quality education. She was speaking during an alumni meeting organised by the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) of KU During her address, VC KU called for a comprehensive review of academic programmes at the CDOE, saying there was a need to introduce new online courses, revise curricula and align academic offerings with emerging industry and societal needs. The Vice Chancellor said the university must introspect and modernise its programmes in view of rapid changes in technology, research, entrepreneurship and the job market. She said the Centre for Distance and Online Education, formerly the Directorate of Distance Education, has completed 50 years and remains one of the university's flagship academic institutions. Describing it as a "mini-university" within Kashmir University, she said the centre has played a significant role in extending higher education opportunities beyond conventional classrooms through flexible and technology-enabled learning. She called for immediate reforms and said the university should identify subjects that are currently in demand and revise syllabi accordingly to improve employability. She said the focus should not only be on securing jobs but also on promoting entrepreneurship and startups by designing courses that meet the requirements of industry and society. She directed the centre to prepare a roadmap for introducing online programmes, saying such courses have become the need of the hour and are already being offered by universities across the country. She also advocated organising workshops and inviting experts from leading institutions to help strengthen the centre's academic offerings. "Distance education is not meant only for students unable to secure admission in the regular system. Learners enrolled in the centre are equally capable and deserving of quality education," VC KU said. She paid tribute to former faculty members and administrators and said the University's present standing is the result of decades of contributions made by retired teachers and academic leaders. She said the institution would continue building on that legacy with the aim of achieving greater national and global recognition.
Srinagar Jul 16: The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), University of Kashmir (KU), organised a Golden Jubilee Alumni Meet at the Main Campus to commemorate 50 years of the Centre's contribution to distance and online education. The event witnessed participation of alumni, former directors, faculty members, administrators and students to reflect on the Centre's journey over the past five decades and discuss its evolving role in expanding access to higher education. The programme also provided an opportunity for alumni to reconnect with their alma mater and share their experiences of learning through the Centre. Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said that the Centre has played an important role in making higher education accessible to learners from diverse social and geographical backgrounds. "For five decades, the Centre has created opportunities for thousands of learners who aspired to pursue higher education despite various constraints. As higher education continues to evolve, CDOE has an important role in advancing inclusive, flexible and technology-enabled learning," she said. Dean Research KU, Prof. Bashir Ahmad Ganaie, said the Centre's sustained contribution to academic outreach reflects the University's commitment to widening educational opportunities. Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, and Controller of Examinations, Prof. Majid Zaman, highlighted the Centre's steady growth over the years and acknowledged its contribution to the University's academic ecosystem. Dean, School of Open Learning KU, Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad Dar, and Director, Admissions & Competitive Examinations KU, Prof. Fayaz Ahmad, also shared their reflections on the Centre's journey and appreciated its role in extending educational opportunities to learners across the region. Earlier, in his welcome address, Director, CDOE, Prof. Altaf Ahangar, traced the evolution of the Centre and highlighted key milestones in its fifty-year journey. He spoke about the Centre's transition from conventional distance education to online and blended learning models, while acknowledging the contributions of former administrators, faculty members and staff in shaping its growth. A highlight of the programme was the felicitation of former Directors and faculty members of CDOE in recognition of their significant contributions to the development and expansion of the Centre over the past five decades. An interactive session with alumni was held during which participants shared their academic and professional experiences, recalled their association with the Centre and offered suggestions for strengthening alumni engagement and further enhancing the quality of distance and online education. The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Dr. Zubair Ahmad Dada, faculty member at CDOE KU.
Srinagar, Jul 17: President of the Private Schools' Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) Nazar-ul-Islam Baba Thursday emphasized that schools must evolve beyond conventional learning by nurturing creativity, critical thinking, research aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and entrepreneurial skills among students. In his address during the conclave "RAAH â Strengthening Pathways for Students' Innovations in Schools" as the Special Guest, he presented a roadmap for fostering innovation, incubation, and entrepreneurship across private schools in the Union Territory. He stressed that the future of education lies in creating innovation-driven ecosystems where young minds are encouraged to ideate, experiment, and develop solutions to real-world challenges. Highlighting the need for equitable access to innovation, Dr. Nazar-ul-Islam proposed the establishment of a Mobile Innovation Lab dedicated to students from border and far-flung areas of Jammu & Kashmir. The proposed initiative aims to bridge the innovation and digital divide by bringing hands-on learning in robotics, coding, artificial intelligence, electronics, design thinking, and STEM education directly to underserved schools. He urged Pi Jam Foundation to explore a collaborative partnership with the Private Schools' Association J&K to conceptualize and implement this transformative initiative so that every student, irrespective of geographical location, has access to quality innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities. The conclave was presided over by Prof. Shamim Ahmad Shah, Registrar, Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST). Distinguished dignitaries present included Prof. G. N. Itoo, Director, Centre for Good Governance and Policy, IUST; Prof. Parvaiz Mir, Director/CEO, CIED-IUST Foundation; Adv. Nadeem Qadiri, Founder Director, Nature School and noted environmentalist; Dr. Arif, Director Academics, JKBOSE; and Shoaib Dar, Director, Pi Jam Foundation J&K, who co-hosted the event along with an eminent panel of experts from industry, academia, and educational institutions. The conclave concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen innovation pathways for school students and build a vibrant culture of research, incubation, and entrepreneurship across Jammu & Kashmir. Various young innovators from Schools and colleges pitched their creative ideas for sead funding and handholding which was hailed all across the board.
Srinagar, May 31: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Sunday lashed out at Mehbooba Mufti saying that teachers in Jammu and Kashmir do not need "seasonal sympathy tweets" but deserve consistency, dignity and honesty in public life. He was referring to tweet of former JK chief minister and People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti wherein she accused the National Conference government of its silence over Teachers Eligibility Test (TET). In a tweet, Mehbooba Mufti said thousands of teachers in J&K were face uncertainty, anguish, and the looming threat of termination. "While other states are fighting to protect their teachers by filing review petitions before the Supreme Court on the TET issue our government chose silence despite earlier assurances of support.Teachers deserve advocacy and protection, not indifference at a moment that could determine their livelihood and future," she wrote on X. Reacting to her tweet, Inam Nabi lashed out at Mufti saying that one cannot ignite fear in power and preach compassion in opposition. "Kashmir remembers both the statements and the signatures," he said. He said that Mehbooba Mufti today speaks about âadvocacyâ and âprotectionâ for teachers as if people have forgotten her own tenure. "The same Mehbooba Mufti, while heading the government, ordered screening tests for nearly 65,000 ReT teachers and questioned their competence, qualifications and credibility," he said. He said today Mufti sheds tears for teachers facing uncertainty, but when she was in power, it was her own government that pushed thousands of teachers into anxiety, humiliation and fear. "What changed now? Opposition benches? Political convenience? Or selective memory? It is astonishing to see those who once treated teachers with suspicion now presenting themselves as their protectors," Inam U Nabi said. "Even Omar Abdullah had then questioned PDPâs move and asked whether the government had similarly screened its own political appointees before rewarding them with positions," he added. Inam Un Nabi, however, urged J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to rise above political differences and protect the teachers of Jammu and Kashmir by immediately filing a review petition before the Supreme Court on the TET issue. âTeachers are the backbone of society. Their livelihoods and dignity cannot be subjected to political silence or administrative indifference. The government must stand with them legally and morally at this critical juncture,â he added.
Udhampur, Jan 10: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo Saturday conducted an extensive tour of far-flung areas of Tehsil Panchari of District Udhampur and felicitated the winners of 6th ISKOI India Karate Championshipâ2025 during an impressive medal ceremony held at Government Higher Secondary School, Panchari here. Mission Director POSHAN Sajad Ahmad Ganai, Director Social Welfare Jammu Ranjeet Singh, Director Health Services Jammu, Director Colleges, PO Poshan, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Joint Director School Education Udhampur -Reasi, DDC Member Panchari, other district officers, parents of medal winners and large number of locals were also present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, the Minister congratulated the girl achievers, their parents and the local populace on the remarkable accomplishment of young girls. She lauded their dedication, discipline and fighting spirit and expressed pride in the fact that many of these medal winners hailed from far-flung and remote areas, overcoming limited resources and challenging circumstances, to bring laurels to Jammu and Kashmir. Minister Sakeena said that the achievements of these young girl sportspersons reflect their hard work and their parents as well as the growing sports culture in the region. âYour success proves that talent knows no geographical barriers. With determination and proper guidance, our youth can excel on any national and international platform,â she stated. Highlighting the importance of sports, the Minister said that sporting activities provide a common platform for budding sportspersons to showcase their talent and prepare them to face challenges in life. She urged the participants to actively engage in sports for physical fitness, mental well-being and overall personality development. She assured continued government support for promoting sports activities, especially in rural and far-flung areas, to ensure equal opportunities for talented players. She also lauded the efforts of the International Shito-Ryu Karate Organisation of India for promoting sports culture among youth, especially in rural areas. During the ceremony, the Minister interacted with the players, coaches and parents, appreciating the role of coaches and families in nurturing young talent. She encouraged the medal winners to continue their training and aim for greater achievements at national and international competitions. During the ceremony, as many as 47 medal winners of the 6th ISKOI India Karate championshipâ2025 were felicitated by the Minister and presented trophies and prizes to them. On the sidelines of the event, Sakeena Itoo Later distributed school bags and umbrellas under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme. Later, the Minister also interacted with DDC Member Panchari, former PRI members and locals who projected several issues and demands pertaining to health, education, road and other sector before the Minister. While interacting with them, the Minister said that the Director Health Services Jammu has been given strict instructions to prepare a holistic plan for upgradation of medical care facilities at the PHC Panchari as well as addressing shortage of staff, owing to the remoteness of area from district head quarters. She further added that the maintenance of road and allied works will be taken up with concerned quarters for immediate redressal. She reaffirmed that the Government led by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah is committed to strengthen road connectivity, health infrastructure and other essential facilities to ensure every basic service is available at the doorsteps of common people. She also said that the Tourism potential of the Panchari area will be tapped to its full extent by the Government, which will eventually lead to overall development of the area and add to its economic efficiency.
Baramulla, Jan 25: The Indian Army on Sunday organised Know Your Army event at District Police Line (DPL) Baramulla. From Artillery guns to Fly past by Drones in action and from new generation vehicles and latest equipment on display, the Dagger Division of Indian Army put on display its weapons to instill national pride among locals in Baramulla. The event was organised to commemorate 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour. The event was organised by Dagger Division of Chinar Corps to showcase the operational capabilities of the Indian army and to inspire local youth to pursue careers in the Armed Forces, reinforcing National pride and unity. GOC, Dagger Division was the Chief Guest at the occasion while other and senior army officers and officials from civil administration were also present at the occasion. The event was declared open by the by GoC Dagger Division for the public. "Weather did not dampen the spirit of the enthusiastic locals and children who thronged the event in large numbers to witnessed the display," an official handout reads. Major highlights of the celebrations were an impressive capability display of Swarm of Drones, martial arts by Army and children of Chinar Yuva. "Children witnessing the event were enthralled by the mesmerising show of the Canine companions of soldiers," the handout reads. The people present at the occasion were entertained by vibrant, energetic and melodious Kashmiri renditions of famous songs sung by the local band, Strings of Baramulla of Chinar YUVA Center.  A captivating display of state of the art weapons and military equipment found favour with the youth. The event witnessed by approximately 1500 spectators, including Army and government officials besids the students from schools and colleges. The event received widespread appreciations from students and the local community, who expressed admiration for the discipline, dedication and combat readiness of the Indian Army. "Event successfully strengthened public confidence in the armed forces and fostered a renewed sense of patriotism among the youth of Baramulla," the handout reads.
Jammu, Mar 8: The Jammu and Kashmir Congress protested against the LPG price hike here on Sunday, saying this "anti-poor" decision by the government will add to the financial burden on the common man. Led by PCC president Tariq Hamid Karra and working president Raman Bhalla, the protesters also criticised the Indo-US trade deal, alleging that it will adversely impact the country's economy, according to a party spokesperson. The protesters gathered in Model Town, Digiana, near here, raised slogans against the ruling BJP and criticised what they described as the government's "surrender" in the Indo-US trade negotiations. The price of domestic cooking gas LPG was hiked on Saturday by a steep Rs 60 per cylinder, the second increase in less than a year, as the spike in global energy rates following the West Asia crisis weighed on the world's third largest energy consumer. Non-subsidised LPG -- the one that common households use in kitchens -- will now cost Rs 913 per 14.2 kg cylinder in Delhi as against Rs 853 previously, according to the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) website. The protesters said the continued rise in the prices of essential commodities, particularly cooking gas, has added to the financial burden on ordinary households. Addressing the protesters, Karra termed the LPG price hike "cruel". Many rural households still do not have access to piped gas supply and rely entirely on LPG cylinders. This will force them to plan their monthly budgets more carefully, he said. He demanded an immediate rollback of the price hike. The Congress leader described the Indo-US trade deal as a "major blow" to the country's economic interests. Instead of safeguarding the nation's economic and strategic priorities, the Centre "bowed to pressure" from the United States, he charged. He also expressed concern over the possible implications of the trade deal on India's agriculture and dairy sectors, and claimed that orchardists and dairy farmers in Jammu and Kashmir will be severely affected if safeguards are not put in place. "Our apple growers, walnut producers and small dairy farmers could face serious challenges if cheap imports enter the market without minimum support guarantees," Karra said. He demanded that the government present a white paper on the trade deal in Parliament. PCC working president Bhalla also strongly condemned the "unprecedented" hike in LPG prices and said poor and middle-class families will be badly affected by this decision of the Union government. He called for an LPG relief package for families belonging to the BPL (below poverty line) category, along with a special subsidy buffer for Jammu and Kashmir, citing the higher transportation and logistics costs in hilly regions. (PTI)
Srinagar, Jan 15: After the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE) declared the result of the class 10th and 12th annual (regular) examinations, the whole focus shifted to the achievers, particularly the toppers. Amidst the appreciation and celebrations for the successful candidates, a stark reality has emerged in society that none of the stakeholders talk about those students who could not pass the examination. This emerging trend has become dangerous for the young students particularly the average performers or those who do not pass the exam in their first attempt. Amid this, a government school teacher has put forth a clear message for the parents of those children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams. Aasima Jan, a government school teacher from Baramulla district said that expectations of the parents should not make the students victim of depression. She believes that the parents must stand by their children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams or qualified it with average grades. After the announcement of the results, some students qualified the exams with good marks in class 10th and 12th exams while qualified with average grades while some could not qualify the exams. "Those parents whose children either took less marks or could not qualify for the exam, must be a little upset with their children. As a parent, it is natural to feel disappointed when your child does not come up to your expectations," Aasima Jan said. She however said that the high expectations of parents should not make the child a victim of depression. "Class 10th exam is just a first step in the educational journey of these children. This is not the end of life. Life will provide more opportunities, with more chances and more ways to excel," Aasima Jan said. She said the parents must support their child at this time deal with this setback. "If parents support their child at this time, their kids will bounce back more stronger in future. Parents must tell their children that failures are not opposite to success but are actually part of success," she said. She said there were many people who did not qualify normal exams but proved their worth in life after facing setbacks. "Parents must put in their efforts. Embrace their child, support them instead of letting them down," she said. As the JKBOSE declared the result of class 10th and 12th class examination, the stakeholders and society at large pour praise and attention on the top performers while there was a deafening silence surrounding those who do not pass the examination. The move raised a serious concern, particularly about the way children are being brought up. It raised big question that: âAre we preparing our students to be strong enough to cope with the failure?â
Bandipora, Jul 8: Entrepreneur Jibran Khan, founder of the Zero Miles restaurant chain, on Wednesday shared his inspirational journey from menial jobs to building a successful enterprise, urging youngsters to embrace entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities for others. The interactive session, titled 'Nun Chai Talks', was organised by the District Administration Bandipora at the Waqar Knowledge Centre and witnessed enthusiastic participation from students of HKM Degree College Bandipora, HSS Mantrigam, and youth from across the district. Khan, who started with a single outlet in Sopore in 2017 and now operates six franchise locations across North Kashmir employing 60 people, candidly spoke about his early struggles, including washing dishes and doing odd jobs. "I ran from pillar to post in search of a job and I don't want young ones to suffer like that," Khan said, explaining his motivation to create employment avenues. After completing his Class 12 in tourism, Khan worked with multinational companies in Chandigarh and Dubai before returning to Kashmir to pursue his passion. He urged aspiring entrepreneurs to remain innovative, embrace challenges confidently, and leverage government schemes supporting self-employment. Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Bandipora, Dr Suhaib Wani, encouraged participants to sharpen their skills and utilise government initiatives promoting innovation and sustainable livelihoods. Dr Zulfi, a resource person from Waqar Knowledge Centre, briefed attendees about mentorship programmes, skill development initiatives, and financial assistance available for young entrepreneurs. Students raised queries on business planning, overcoming initial hurdles, accessing financial support, and identifying market opportunities, with speakers responding through practical suggestions and real-life experiences. BDO Aloosa and Nodal Officer, Waqar Knowledge Centre, Ulfat Ali, thanked Khan for his inspiring address and reaffirmed the administration's commitment to organising more such sessions for Bandipora's youth. (KNS)
Srinagar, Jul 7: In a significant step towards strengthening community led environmental action, the MEERC Council of the Private Schoolsâ Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) in collaboration with the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) convened a multi stakeholder dialogue on environmental sustainability, waste management, and civic responsibility. The event brought together policymakers, environmentalists, educationists, government officials, and civil society representatives under one roof under the title Dont Waste The Future at the Institution of Engineers (India), Church Lane, Srinagar. The programme was attended MLA M Y Tarigami as the chief guest who is also the Chairman, House Committee on Environment, J&K Legislative Assembly. Former Advisor to the J&K Governor Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Joint Director Tourism Kashmir Waseem Raja, , Mr. Farooq A. Gillani, (IFS Retd.), Padma Shri S P Verma, President PSAJK Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam, Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat social activist along with NLCO Core Group members Dr. Farooq Peer, Aijaz Naqshbandi, and Peerzada Faiyaz Ahmad. The programme was moderated by Advocate Nadeem Qadri, while the welcome address was delivered by Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam and the vote of thanks was deliverd by president Rotary Club of Kashmir Dr. Tauseef Ahmad Bhat. Addressing the gathering, NLCO Chairman Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo emphasized that environmental conservation can no longer remain the sole responsibility of government agencies. He called for active public participation, particularly by educational institutions, describing students as the most powerful ambassadors of environmental stewardship. The PSAJK shall work with the academicians to form HPC which will add portfolio development in our circulumn and within a span of one year the association shall adopt green campuses all across J&K. The dialogue culminated in the unanimous adoption of five resolutions that will guide future collaborative initiatives between NLCO, PSAJK, educational institutions, and civil society. The resolutions includes restoration and conservation of Brari Nambal, adoption of ten public and religious spaces for cleanliness and beautification, launch of the Green Campus and safe surroundings initiative in and around schools, student signature campaign highlighting concerns related to the stray dog menace and student mass awareness and action on solid waste management reaching each household. Speaking on the occasion, the guests appreciated NLCOâs and PSAJK sustained efforts in promoting environmental action and commended the organisations for building meaningful partnerships between government institutions, schools, environmental experts, and civil society. The speakers unanimously stressed that environmental stewardship must move beyond awareness programmes and translate into sustained action through community participation, responsible waste management, restoration of natural ecosystems, and active youth engagement. Chairman NLCO Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo reaffirmed the organisationâs commitment to working with all stakeholders to transform the resolutions into measurable action on the ground. âReal change begins when institutions, communities, and citizens work together. These resolutions are not merely commitments on paper but a roadmap towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Kashmir,â he said. PSAJK called upon schools, students, parents, government departments, civil society organizations and citizens to work collectively towards building a clean, green and sustainable and environmentally responsible Jammu and Kashmir. The Green Marathon programme starting from Kupwara and Green Campus Program was initiated by Adv. Nadeem Qadri who is also the Advisor, to the J&K chapter of The Climate Reality Project India and South Asia.
Srinagar, Jul 4: Srinagar Airport on Saturday withdrew the previously proposed Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) envisaging full runway closure on Mondays and Tuesdays, announcing that flight operations will continue on all days this year. In an operational update posted on X, the airport said there will be no full airfield closure, while operational/watch hours will remain from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, night-time runway maintenance will continue until October 2026. âPassengers are advised that there will be no full airfield closure at Srinagar Airport this year. Airport operations will continue on all days with operational/watch hours from 0800 hrs to 1700 hrs. Night closures for runway maintenance will continue until October 2026,â the airport said. The airport also announced that the previously proposed NOTAM regarding full runway closure on Mondays and Tuesdays has been withdrawn. It added that airlines will continue to update their schedules in accordance with the prevailing operational timings. Passengers have been advised to check the status of their flights with their respective airlines before leaving for the airport and rely only on official channels for authentic updates. (KNO)
Srinagar, June 28: The Chief Education Officer (CEO), Ganderbal has deputed 62 teachers and other staff from government schools to manage RFID, e-KYC and on-the-spot registration facilities for SAJY-2026 at the Baltal base camp. As per the order issued by the CEO, Ganderbal on June 27, the officials were directed to report at Yatri Niwas Baltal and the RFID Building by 9:00 pm on the same day and remain on duty throughout the Yatra period or until further orders. The move comes in wake of the preparations underway for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SAJY) -2026. The deputation has been made in pursuance of an order issued by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, to ensure the smooth functioning of the RFID, electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) and on-the-spot registration centres established for pilgrims. As per the order, a detailed code of conduct has been laid down for the deputed officials, directing them to report to designated nodal officers, maintain punctuality and discipline, safeguard government equipment and ensure courteous behaviour while dealing with pilgrims. Officials have also been instructed to maintain strict confidentiality of pilgrims' personal data and refrain from sharing login credentials, passwords or other digital access with unauthorized persons. The CEO has warned that unauthorized absence, negligence, dereliction of duty, password changes, misuse of official credentials or any activity hampering the functioning of the registration centres will invite disciplinary action under the applicable service rules. The order further reads that the salaries of the deputed officials will continue to be drawn by their respective Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) upon production of attendance certificates issued by the nodal officer of the RFID centres. All the officials have been directed to acknowledge the instructions and ensure strict compliance. The deployment list comprises 62 teachers, laboratory assistants, physical education teachers, library staff and multi-tasking staff drawn mainly from the education zones of Kangan and Hariganiwan. Most of them have been assigned to the New Building of Yatri Niwas Baltal, while others have been posted at the RFID Building and assigned supervisory and technical responsibilities.Â
New Delhi, May 12: A massive protest organised by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) broke out near the Shastri Bhawan on Tuesday, against the alleged paper leak in NEET-UG this year. The exam was held on May 3, following which allegations of paper leak surfaced, triggering investigations by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) and central agencies. Earlier, the National Testing Agency (NTA) announced the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026, and said the examination will be re-conducted on dates to be notified separately. In a statement, the NTA said the decision was taken with the approval of the Government of India in the interest of maintaining transparency and preserving trust in the national examination system.
