Baramulla, June 15: The Gulmarg Battalion of Indian Army and Sheep Husbandry department Baramulla on Monday organised animal health and awareness camp at Bhutapathri, Gulmarg. The camp was a part of the outreach initiative aimed at supporting livestock-rearing communities in the highland areas. The camp primarily focused on serving tribal communities and Chopans engaged in livestock rearing in the upper reaches and seasonal grazing areas. As per the official handout, the programme was facilitated by 9 Raj Rifles, whose support and coordination played a vital role in the successful conduct of the camp. A large number of livestock rearers from the surrounding highland areas participated and availed the services provided at the event. During the camp, comprehensive veterinary healthcare services were extended to a wide range of livestock, including sheep, goats, cattle, buffaloes, and equines. The veterinary team conducted clinical examinations, treatment of sick animals, and preventive healthcare interventions to ensure improved animal health and productivity. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ishfaq Dhobi, VAS Shrakwara, highlighted the immense potential of livestock rearing as a sustainable livelihood option, particularly for tribal and pastoral communities. He emphasized the importance of adopting scientific animal husbandry practices and informed the participants about opportunities for marketing livestock products as organic produce, thereby enhancing their income and market value. Dr. Dhobi also apprised the participants of various government-sponsored schemes, subsidies, and employment opportunities available in the livestock sector. He encouraged the youth to view livestock farming not merely as a traditional occupation but as a viable and profitable entrepreneurial venture capable of generating sustainable livelihoods. As part of the camp activities, free first-aid kits and deworming medicines were distributed among the beneficiaries under the ATMA scheme, enabling livestock owners to better manage the health of their animals during the grazing season. The participating livestock rearers expressed their gratitude to the Sheep Husbandry Department especially Dr Showkat Ahangar, DSHO Baramulla for extending essential veterinary services to remote highland areas and appreciated the department's commitment towards the welfare of pastoral communities. The Indian Army personnel and local beneficiaries alike lauded the efforts of the department and thanked the authorities for establishing a permanent veterinary camp in the vicinity during the Behak period, which will ensure continuous access to veterinary care and technical support for migratory livestock rearers. "The initiative reflects the shared commitment of the Sheep Husbandry Department and the Indian Army towards improving rural livelihoods, strengthening animal healthcare delivery, and enhancing the socio-economic well-being of tribal and pastoral communities in the region," the handout reads.
Srinagar, June 15: A series of national scholarship programmes offering financial assistance ranging from âč20,000 to full tuition fee coverage have opened applications for students pursuing higher education in engineering, management, technology and other professional courses across the country. Among the major schemes, the Bharti Airtel Scholarship 2026-27 will provide 100 per cent annual course fee coverage, hostel and mess charges, and laptops to selected students enrolled in top engineering institutions. The scholarship is open to first-year students admitted to undergraduate and integrated programmes in technology-related fields, including artificial intelligence, robotics, data science and aerospace, with family income not exceeding âč8 lakh annually. The IDFC FIRST Bank MBA Scholarship Program 2026-28 will provide financial support of âč2 lakh to eligible first-year MBA students from families with annual incomes of up to âč6 lakh. The assistance will be disbursed over two years to help students pursue management education without financial constraints. For students aspiring to pursue emerging technology courses, the uGSOT Scholarship Program 2026 by upGrad School of Technology offers merit-based and need-based scholarships, including fee waivers of up to 100 per cent. The programme targets Class 12 science students seeking admission in Computer Science specialisations such as Generative AI and Machine Learning, Quantum Computing and Full Stack Development. Another major initiative, the Eastman Powerup Eduskill Scholarship Program 2026-27, has invited applications from engineering, management and diploma students. The programme offers financial assistance of up to âč20,000 linked to the successful completion of industry-relevant certification courses. Preference will be given to female students, persons with disabilities, students from single-parent households and those belonging to Tier-II and Tier-III cities. The scholarship list also includes the Mastersâ Union Scholarship Aptitude Test 2026, which offers tuition fee waivers ranging from 10 to 80 per cent for students pursuing undergraduate programmes in business management, technology, data science, artificial intelligence, sustainability and related disciplines. In addition, the WINGS â Women Inspiring Growth in STEM Scholarship Program has been launched for female undergraduate students at IIT Bombay pursuing STEM disciplines. The programme provides full tuition fee support and seeks to encourage greater participation of women in science and technology education. The document also mentions the vivo Punjab Vidya Setu Scholarship Program 2026, which offers scholarships of âč30,000 to âč60,000 to economically weaker undergraduate students studying in government and government-aided colleges in Punjab and Chandigarh. Most of the scholarship schemes are being administered through online application portals, with deadlines falling between June and July 2026. The programmes are aimed at reducing financial barriers to higher education and promoting access to professional and technical courses for students from economically weaker sections. Education experts said such initiatives could significantly enhance access to quality higher education, particularly for students from low-income families, while encouraging enrolment in emerging technology and management disciplines.
Kupwara, June 15: An ex-servicemen (ESM) rally was organised at Baghbela, Tangdharon under the aegis of the Chinar Corps of Indian Army. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and their dependents from the surrounding region, reaffirming the enduring bond between the Indian Army and its veteran fraternity. As per the official handout, the he rally served as a comprehensive platform for meaningful interaction between serving personnel and veterans. Participants were apprised of various welfare initiatives, pension-related provisions, healthcare facilities, resettlement avenues and other entitlements designed for the veteran community. Representatives from relevant agencies and departments were present to address grievances, provide guidance and facilitate the prompt resolution of issues concerning Ex-Servicemen and their families through direct and constructive engagement. The occasion also provided an opportunity to acknowledge and honour the exemplary contributions, unwavering dedication and selfless sacrifices rendered by veterans in the service of the nation. The event resonated with a profound spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect, underscoring the enduring relationship between serving soldiers and those who once stood in uniform safeguarding the nationâs sovereignty. The conduct of the rally further exemplified the Indian Armyâs steadfast dedication to nurture a lifelong association with its veterans and their families.
Langate, June 15: The Contractors Association Langate on Monday staged a peaceful protest against the prolonged vacancy of the Executive Engineer (ExEn) post in the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Sub-Division Langate. Talking to reporters, the protesting contractors said that the post of Executive Engineer has remained vacant for the last three months, causing inconvenience and delays in the execution and processing of various developmental works in the area. The association members expressed concern that the absence of an Executive Engineer has adversely affected administrative functioning and project implementation, creating difficulties for contractors as well as the general public. The protesters urged the higher authorities of the R&B Department and the Government to take immediate steps to fill the vacant post and ensure smooth functioning of the department. âWe request the concerned authorities to appoint a new Executive Engineer in R&B Sub-Division Langate without further delay so that ongoing developmental activities do not suffer,â the contractors said. The protest remained peaceful and the contractors demanded prompt intervention from the authorities to address the issue in the interest of the public.
Baramulla, June 15: The Gulmarg Battalion of Indian Army and Sheep Husbandry department Baramulla on Monday organised animal health and awareness camp at Bhutapathri, Gulmarg. The camp was a part of the outreach initiative aimed at supporting livestock-rearing communities in the highland areas. The camp primarily focused on serving tribal communities and Chopans engaged in livestock rearing in the upper reaches and seasonal grazing areas. As per the official handout, the programme was facilitated by 9 Raj Rifles, whose support and coordination played a vital role in the successful conduct of the camp. A large number of livestock rearers from the surrounding highland areas participated and availed the services provided at the event. During the camp, comprehensive veterinary healthcare services were extended to a wide range of livestock, including sheep, goats, cattle, buffaloes, and equines. The veterinary team conducted clinical examinations, treatment of sick animals, and preventive healthcare interventions to ensure improved animal health and productivity. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ishfaq Dhobi, VAS Shrakwara, highlighted the immense potential of livestock rearing as a sustainable livelihood option, particularly for tribal and pastoral communities. He emphasized the importance of adopting scientific animal husbandry practices and informed the participants about opportunities for marketing livestock products as organic produce, thereby enhancing their income and market value. Dr. Dhobi also apprised the participants of various government-sponsored schemes, subsidies, and employment opportunities available in the livestock sector. He encouraged the youth to view livestock farming not merely as a traditional occupation but as a viable and profitable entrepreneurial venture capable of generating sustainable livelihoods. As part of the camp activities, free first-aid kits and deworming medicines were distributed among the beneficiaries under the ATMA scheme, enabling livestock owners to better manage the health of their animals during the grazing season. The participating livestock rearers expressed their gratitude to the Sheep Husbandry Department especially Dr Showkat Ahangar, DSHO Baramulla for extending essential veterinary services to remote highland areas and appreciated the department's commitment towards the welfare of pastoral communities. The Indian Army personnel and local beneficiaries alike lauded the efforts of the department and thanked the authorities for establishing a permanent veterinary camp in the vicinity during the Behak period, which will ensure continuous access to veterinary care and technical support for migratory livestock rearers. "The initiative reflects the shared commitment of the Sheep Husbandry Department and the Indian Army towards improving rural livelihoods, strengthening animal healthcare delivery, and enhancing the socio-economic well-being of tribal and pastoral communities in the region," the handout reads.
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
Baramulla, June 15: The Gulmarg Battalion of Indian Army and Sheep Husbandry department Baramulla on Monday organised animal health and awareness camp at Bhutapathri, Gulmarg. The camp was a part of the outreach initiative aimed at supporting livestock-rearing communities in the highland areas. The camp primarily focused on serving tribal communities and Chopans engaged in livestock rearing in the upper reaches and seasonal grazing areas. As per the official handout, the programme was facilitated by 9 Raj Rifles, whose support and coordination played a vital role in the successful conduct of the camp. A large number of livestock rearers from the surrounding highland areas participated and availed the services provided at the event. During the camp, comprehensive veterinary healthcare services were extended to a wide range of livestock, including sheep, goats, cattle, buffaloes, and equines. The veterinary team conducted clinical examinations, treatment of sick animals, and preventive healthcare interventions to ensure improved animal health and productivity. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ishfaq Dhobi, VAS Shrakwara, highlighted the immense potential of livestock rearing as a sustainable livelihood option, particularly for tribal and pastoral communities. He emphasized the importance of adopting scientific animal husbandry practices and informed the participants about opportunities for marketing livestock products as organic produce, thereby enhancing their income and market value. Dr. Dhobi also apprised the participants of various government-sponsored schemes, subsidies, and employment opportunities available in the livestock sector. He encouraged the youth to view livestock farming not merely as a traditional occupation but as a viable and profitable entrepreneurial venture capable of generating sustainable livelihoods. As part of the camp activities, free first-aid kits and deworming medicines were distributed among the beneficiaries under the ATMA scheme, enabling livestock owners to better manage the health of their animals during the grazing season. The participating livestock rearers expressed their gratitude to the Sheep Husbandry Department especially Dr Showkat Ahangar, DSHO Baramulla for extending essential veterinary services to remote highland areas and appreciated the department's commitment towards the welfare of pastoral communities. The Indian Army personnel and local beneficiaries alike lauded the efforts of the department and thanked the authorities for establishing a permanent veterinary camp in the vicinity during the Behak period, which will ensure continuous access to veterinary care and technical support for migratory livestock rearers. "The initiative reflects the shared commitment of the Sheep Husbandry Department and the Indian Army towards improving rural livelihoods, strengthening animal healthcare delivery, and enhancing the socio-economic well-being of tribal and pastoral communities in the region," the handout reads.
Kupwara, June 15: An ex-servicemen (ESM) rally was organised at Baghbela, Tangdharon under the aegis of the Chinar Corps of Indian Army. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and their dependents from the surrounding region, reaffirming the enduring bond between the Indian Army and its veteran fraternity. As per the official handout, the he rally served as a comprehensive platform for meaningful interaction between serving personnel and veterans. Participants were apprised of various welfare initiatives, pension-related provisions, healthcare facilities, resettlement avenues and other entitlements designed for the veteran community. Representatives from relevant agencies and departments were present to address grievances, provide guidance and facilitate the prompt resolution of issues concerning Ex-Servicemen and their families through direct and constructive engagement. The occasion also provided an opportunity to acknowledge and honour the exemplary contributions, unwavering dedication and selfless sacrifices rendered by veterans in the service of the nation. The event resonated with a profound spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect, underscoring the enduring relationship between serving soldiers and those who once stood in uniform safeguarding the nationâs sovereignty. The conduct of the rally further exemplified the Indian Armyâs steadfast dedication to nurture a lifelong association with its veterans and their families.
Langate, June 15: The Contractors Association Langate on Monday staged a peaceful protest against the prolonged vacancy of the Executive Engineer (ExEn) post in the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Sub-Division Langate. Talking to reporters, the protesting contractors said that the post of Executive Engineer has remained vacant for the last three months, causing inconvenience and delays in the execution and processing of various developmental works in the area. The association members expressed concern that the absence of an Executive Engineer has adversely affected administrative functioning and project implementation, creating difficulties for contractors as well as the general public. The protesters urged the higher authorities of the R&B Department and the Government to take immediate steps to fill the vacant post and ensure smooth functioning of the department. âWe request the concerned authorities to appoint a new Executive Engineer in R&B Sub-Division Langate without further delay so that ongoing developmental activities do not suffer,â the contractors said. The protest remained peaceful and the contractors demanded prompt intervention from the authorities to address the issue in the interest of the public.
Srinagar, June 1: World No Tobacco Day 2026 was observed with great enthusiasm and active participation at the University of Kashmir, Srinagar. The function was organised in collaboration with the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital (GDCH), Srinagar. The programme was organized with the objective of creating awareness regarding the harmful effects of tobacco use, promoting healthy lifestyles, and strengthening the message of a tobacco-free society under the banner of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. World No Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31 under the leadership of the World Health Organization (WHO), serves as a global platform to highlight the devastating health, social, economic, and environmental consequences of tobacco consumption. The day aims to encourage individuals, communities, and institutions to take collective action against tobacco use and support tobacco cessation initiatives. Tobacco remains one of the leading preventable causes of disease and death worldwide, causing cancers, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, and numerous oral health problems. The programme commenced with a Walkathon and awareness rally on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, which was flagged off by the Vice-Chancellor University of Kashmir Dr. Neelofar Khan. The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, healthcare professionals, and volunteers who carried awareness placards and disseminated messages highlighting the dangers of tobacco consumption and substance abuse. The event reflected the Universityâs commitment towards promoting health and well-being among students and the wider community. Following the rally, a series of expert lectures was conducted by distinguished speakers from various healthcare disciplines. The first lecture was delivered by Dr. Naveed Nazir, Head, Department of Chest Medicine and Pulmonology, on the topic âBreaking the Habit: Harsh Realities of Tobacco.â He elaborated on the detrimental impact of tobacco on respiratory health, emphasizing its role in chronic lung diseases, cancer, and premature mortality, while stressing the urgent need for effective tobacco cessation interventions. The second lecture was delivered by Dr. Yasir Rather on âNicotine and the Brain.â He discussed the neurobiological basis of nicotine addiction, explaining how tobacco products influence brain chemistry and contribute to dependence, mental health issues, and behavioural changes. An insightful lecture was also presented by Dr. Aasim Farooq Shah, Head and In-charge, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar, on âBehavioural Interventions in Tobacco Cessation.â He highlighted evidence-based behavioural counselling techniques, motivational interviewing, and community-based strategies that have proven effective in helping individuals quit tobacco. He emphasized that tobacco cessation requires a multidisciplinary approach combining counselling, behavioural support, and sustained follow-up. The programme further featured a presentation by Dr. Asif Yousuf and Dr. Asifa Ashraf on âLandscape of Tobacco,â providing participants with an overview of tobacco prevalence, emerging consumption trends, novel nicotine delivery products, and the public health challenges posed by tobacco use in contemporary society. A significant highlight of the programme was the awareness generated regarding the Tobacco Cessation Centre established at the University Health Centre, University of Kashmir, in collaboration with the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar. The centre serves as a dedicated facility providing professional counselling, behavioural support, awareness services, and guidance to students, faculty, staff, and members of the community seeking assistance in quitting tobacco. The initiative represents an important step toward institutionalizing tobacco cessation services and making evidence-based support readily accessible within the university campus. The organisers expressed their sincere appreciation to Dr. Khalid Nazir, Coordinator, University Health Centre, University of Kashmir, for his invaluable support, leadership, and coordination in successfully organizing the programme. His continuous efforts in strengthening health promotion activities and fostering collaborations between the University Health Centre and Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar, were acknowledged as instrumental in the success of the event and in advancing the cause of tobacco control and health awareness within the university community. The primary objective of the programme was to sensitize students and young adults about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption, encourage healthy lifestyle choices, promote behavioural change, and strengthen ongoing efforts aimed at achieving a tobacco-free and drug-free society. The event concluded with an interactive discussion session, during which participants engaged actively with the experts, sought guidance on tobacco cessation strategies, and reaffirmed their commitment to spreading awareness against tobacco use. Participants also pledged their support towards the vision of a healthier, tobacco-free future and the objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The programme served as a strong reminder that collective action through education, awareness, counselling, and community engagement remains essential in reducing the burden of tobacco-related diseases and creating a healthier society for future generations.
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.
