Srinagar, May 1: The newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Srinagar-based 15 Corps, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh on Friday vowed to work in close coordination with the civil administration and the people to strengthen peace, stability and prosperity across Valley. He was speaking during his inaugural address soon after taking over as the new Lieutenant General of the Srinagar based 15 Corps of the Indian Army. "I will work in close synergy with the civil administration and the Awaam of Kashmir to further strengthen the foundation of peace, stability and prosperity in the region," an official handout reads. He took over as the new Lieutenant General after the outgoing Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava relinquished the Command and handed over reins of the Chinar Corps after 19 months of leadership and sage guidance. "During this period the region witnessed consolidation of security architecture which became responsive and synergised and contributed to peace and stability of the Valley," the handout reads. "His eventful and challenging tenure was characterised by meticulous execution of OP SINDOOR & OP MAHADEV, which brought the perpetrators of the dastardly âPahalgam Attackâ to justice, incident-free conduct of the Amarnath Yatra 2025 and multiple initiatives in Nation Building," it reads. It reads that under his astute stewardship, the Corps also registered notable operational successes in Counter-Infiltration along the Line of Control and in Counter-Terrorism operations in the hinterland, delivering a decisive and debilitating blow to inimical elements. "Equally commendable were his sustained outreach initiatives, which fostered trust and goodwill among the local populace, earning him admiration for his humane and affable approach," the handout reads. Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava now proceeds to assume the prestigious appointment of the Quarter Master General at IHQ of MoD (Army), New Delhi, it reads Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, a highly decorated and battle-hardened officer with over 34 years of illustrious service assumed command of the Chinar Corps on May 1 of 2026. Upon taking over, he paid solemn obeisance at the Chinar War Memorial, Srinagar, honouring the supreme sacrifice of the Nationâs bravehearts. "Possessing extensive operational experience in Counter-Infiltration and Counter-Terrorism operations across Jammu & Kashmir and North East, he brings along a wealth of expertise and strategic acumen," the handout reads. He previously had commanded the Counter Insurgency Force (Victor) in South Kashmir. In his inaugural address, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh reaffirmed his resolve to work in close synergy with the Civil Administration and the âAwaam of Kashmirâ to further strengthen the foundation of peace, stability and prosperity in the region. He exhorted all sections of the society to join hands with security forces in overcoming the persistent challenges. "As the mantle of leadership transitions, the Chinar Corps remains an enduring emblem of unity, resilience and unwavering commitment - steadfast in its mission to ensure lasting peace, stability, nurturing rich cultural heritage and meet the aspirations of the Kashmiri youth for a brighter future and Vikasit Kashmir," the handout reads.
Srinagar, May 1: Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), a leading test preparatory services provider in India, has signed multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Indian Army and key paramilitary forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), to enhance educational access and welfare support for personnel and their families. As per the official handout, the agreements aim to provide structured scholarships, academic mentoring, career guidance and nationwide coaching access to serving personnel, veterans, gallantry awardees, disabled members of the forces, and families of martyrs. Under the initiative, AESL will extend financial assistance to remove barriers in accessing quality education, particularly for students aspiring to pursue competitive careers such as engineering and medical entrance examinations. The programmes will offer academic resources at minimal or no cost, depending on eligibility. Managing Director and CEO of AESL, Chandra Sekhar Garisa Reddy said the initiative is aimed at supporting defence families in achieving educational success. âAnyone who has committed themselves to serving their country should have every available opportunity for their family to grow and succeed. Through these partnerships, we hope to expand access to quality academic resources,â he said. According to the details of the MoUs, extensive fee waivers and scholarships have been structured across all forces. For families of personnel who lost their lives in service, AESL will provide near-total fee waivers, with only registration or admission charges applicable in most cases. Full tuition fee waivers have also been extended to wards of personnel with significant disabilities and gallantry award recipients. For serving and retired personnel, partial tuition fee waivers ranging from 20 percent to 50 percent have been formulated, subject to conditions and after adjustment of other scholarships. Additional concessions have been tailored separately for BSF, CRPF and ITBP personnel, including higher waivers for disability cases and special provisions for orphans and boarded-out personnel. "The scholarship schemes will run alongside AESLâs existing merit-based programmes and will be applicable across its pan-India network of centres," the handout reads. In addition to financial support, AESL will provide academic mentoring, career counselling, and access to national-level scholarship and talent identification examinations, including the ANTHE programme. "The initiative also includes provision for both virtual and offline academic support, as well as access to AESL centres and defence school facilities for assessments," it reads. Officials said the programmes are designed as multi-year engagements, ranging from three to five years, to ensure sustained academic support and continuity for beneficiaries. AESL, which has been operating for over three decades, currently runs more than 415 centres across the country and caters to over four lakh students, offering preparation for medical, engineering and other competitive examinations.
Srinagar, April 29: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg Wednesday held a meeting with religious leaders from various faiths. The move comes in continuation of the outreach efforts of the government to engage stakeholders in the fight against drug abuse and to build a narcotics-free society, The meeting was attended by Imams, members of the Shia Community, Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, and representatives of the migrant Hindu community. During the interaction, the Divisional Commissioner appreciated the proactive role of religious leaders in the Nasha Mukht J&K Abhiyaan, noting their influence in spreading awareness through religious institutions and community engagement. He emphasized that the role of religious leaders is indispensable in combating the growing menace of narcotics. On the occasion, he extended a cordial invitation to all religious figures, across sects and faiths, to participate in large numbers in the Nasha Mukht J&K Padyatra scheduled for May 3. The participants shared valuable suggestions and assured full cooperation and active participation in the upcoming padyatra, reinforcing their commitment to the collective fight against drug abuse.
Says 'highly improbable they didnât know rules. Unfortunately, the Joke is on people' Srinagar, April 29: J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA from Handwara Sajad Gani Lone on Wednesday sharply criticised BJP, National Conference and the Peoples Democratic Party, accusing them of colluding in what he described as match fixing during the Rajya Sabha elections. Drawing from personal experience, Lone recalled his participation in the 2015 Rajya Sabha vote. "I remember in 2015 I cast my vote in Rajya Sabha. Our party did not have a candidate, but the ruling alliance requested us to have an agent of their choice," he stated. He confirmed that the appointed person was a non-MLA who proceeded to verify his vote and that of his colleague and fellow MLA, Advocate Bashir Ahmed Dar. Lone questioned the conduct of both NC and PDP, expressing serious doubts over their claimed ignorance of election rules. "It seems highly improbable that PDP or NC did not know the rules," he said, underlining that the appointment of polling agents is among the most critical procedural steps in Rajya Sabha elections. Citing election rules recently highlighted by journalist Umer in a widely-circulated tweet, Lone emphasized that the regulations carry no ambiguity. "A party can appoint an agent, whether the party fields a candidate or not. The only time when you cannot appoint an agent is when the party does not want to appoint one," he said. Pointing to what he called deliberate inaction, Lone said: "That NC did not insist on the appointment of agents, and PDP simply did not appoint agents, hints at a much bigger spread in match fixing." He further noted that an RTI filed by journalist Umer strongly indicates that at least three parties BJP, NC and PDP were part of the Rajya Sabha match fixing, and that the BJP could not have won the Rajya Sabha seat without the active support of NC and PDP. Lone rebukedthe political establishment while reserving his concern for the electorate. "Good luck to the people of Kashmir. Unfortunately, the joke is on them," he said.
Srinagar, May 1: The newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Srinagar-based 15 Corps, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh on Friday vowed to work in close coordination with the civil administration and the people to strengthen peace, stability and prosperity across Valley. He was speaking during his inaugural address soon after taking over as the new Lieutenant General of the Srinagar based 15 Corps of the Indian Army. "I will work in close synergy with the civil administration and the Awaam of Kashmir to further strengthen the foundation of peace, stability and prosperity in the region," an official handout reads. He took over as the new Lieutenant General after the outgoing Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava relinquished the Command and handed over reins of the Chinar Corps after 19 months of leadership and sage guidance. "During this period the region witnessed consolidation of security architecture which became responsive and synergised and contributed to peace and stability of the Valley," the handout reads. "His eventful and challenging tenure was characterised by meticulous execution of OP SINDOOR & OP MAHADEV, which brought the perpetrators of the dastardly âPahalgam Attackâ to justice, incident-free conduct of the Amarnath Yatra 2025 and multiple initiatives in Nation Building," it reads. It reads that under his astute stewardship, the Corps also registered notable operational successes in Counter-Infiltration along the Line of Control and in Counter-Terrorism operations in the hinterland, delivering a decisive and debilitating blow to inimical elements. "Equally commendable were his sustained outreach initiatives, which fostered trust and goodwill among the local populace, earning him admiration for his humane and affable approach," the handout reads. Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava now proceeds to assume the prestigious appointment of the Quarter Master General at IHQ of MoD (Army), New Delhi, it reads Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, a highly decorated and battle-hardened officer with over 34 years of illustrious service assumed command of the Chinar Corps on May 1 of 2026. Upon taking over, he paid solemn obeisance at the Chinar War Memorial, Srinagar, honouring the supreme sacrifice of the Nationâs bravehearts. "Possessing extensive operational experience in Counter-Infiltration and Counter-Terrorism operations across Jammu & Kashmir and North East, he brings along a wealth of expertise and strategic acumen," the handout reads. He previously had commanded the Counter Insurgency Force (Victor) in South Kashmir. In his inaugural address, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh reaffirmed his resolve to work in close synergy with the Civil Administration and the âAwaam of Kashmirâ to further strengthen the foundation of peace, stability and prosperity in the region. He exhorted all sections of the society to join hands with security forces in overcoming the persistent challenges. "As the mantle of leadership transitions, the Chinar Corps remains an enduring emblem of unity, resilience and unwavering commitment - steadfast in its mission to ensure lasting peace, stability, nurturing rich cultural heritage and meet the aspirations of the Kashmiri youth for a brighter future and Vikasit Kashmir," the handout reads.
Srinagar, Apr 21: Jammu and Kashmir Police has booked a professor of University of Kashmir, a Srinagar resident, for alleged rape, cheating and criminal intimidation, with the complainant accusing him of prolonged exploitation under the pretext of marriage. A senior police officer told news agency JKNS that the accused has been arrested, after an FIR was registered against him on the basis of the victimâs complaint. Police have registered the case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and initiated an investigation to probe all allegations and establish the full extent of the offence. Meanwhile, University of Kashmir in an official notification issued by the administration, teaching section, a copy of which lies with JKNS reads, "Whereas, Sajad Mohammed Khan, Scientist-C, Department of Computer Science, has been arrested in connection with the FIR No 11 of 2026 lodged at Women's Police station Rambagh." "Now, therefore, in terms of Rule 31 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956, and in view of his detention in custody, Mr Sajad Mohammed Khan, Scientist-C, Department of Computer Science, is hereby placed under suspension with immediate effect," it reads.
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
Srinagar, May 1: The newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Srinagar-based 15 Corps, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh on Friday vowed to work in close coordination with the civil administration and the people to strengthen peace, stability and prosperity across Valley. He was speaking during his inaugural address soon after taking over as the new Lieutenant General of the Srinagar based 15 Corps of the Indian Army. "I will work in close synergy with the civil administration and the Awaam of Kashmir to further strengthen the foundation of peace, stability and prosperity in the region," an official handout reads. He took over as the new Lieutenant General after the outgoing Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava relinquished the Command and handed over reins of the Chinar Corps after 19 months of leadership and sage guidance. "During this period the region witnessed consolidation of security architecture which became responsive and synergised and contributed to peace and stability of the Valley," the handout reads. "His eventful and challenging tenure was characterised by meticulous execution of OP SINDOOR & OP MAHADEV, which brought the perpetrators of the dastardly âPahalgam Attackâ to justice, incident-free conduct of the Amarnath Yatra 2025 and multiple initiatives in Nation Building," it reads. It reads that under his astute stewardship, the Corps also registered notable operational successes in Counter-Infiltration along the Line of Control and in Counter-Terrorism operations in the hinterland, delivering a decisive and debilitating blow to inimical elements. "Equally commendable were his sustained outreach initiatives, which fostered trust and goodwill among the local populace, earning him admiration for his humane and affable approach," the handout reads. Lieutenant General Prashant Srivastava now proceeds to assume the prestigious appointment of the Quarter Master General at IHQ of MoD (Army), New Delhi, it reads Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, a highly decorated and battle-hardened officer with over 34 years of illustrious service assumed command of the Chinar Corps on May 1 of 2026. Upon taking over, he paid solemn obeisance at the Chinar War Memorial, Srinagar, honouring the supreme sacrifice of the Nationâs bravehearts. "Possessing extensive operational experience in Counter-Infiltration and Counter-Terrorism operations across Jammu & Kashmir and North East, he brings along a wealth of expertise and strategic acumen," the handout reads. He previously had commanded the Counter Insurgency Force (Victor) in South Kashmir. In his inaugural address, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh reaffirmed his resolve to work in close synergy with the Civil Administration and the âAwaam of Kashmirâ to further strengthen the foundation of peace, stability and prosperity in the region. He exhorted all sections of the society to join hands with security forces in overcoming the persistent challenges. "As the mantle of leadership transitions, the Chinar Corps remains an enduring emblem of unity, resilience and unwavering commitment - steadfast in its mission to ensure lasting peace, stability, nurturing rich cultural heritage and meet the aspirations of the Kashmiri youth for a brighter future and Vikasit Kashmir," the handout reads.
Srinagar, April 29: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg Wednesday held a meeting with religious leaders from various faiths. The move comes in continuation of the outreach efforts of the government to engage stakeholders in the fight against drug abuse and to build a narcotics-free society, The meeting was attended by Imams, members of the Shia Community, Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, and representatives of the migrant Hindu community. During the interaction, the Divisional Commissioner appreciated the proactive role of religious leaders in the Nasha Mukht J&K Abhiyaan, noting their influence in spreading awareness through religious institutions and community engagement. He emphasized that the role of religious leaders is indispensable in combating the growing menace of narcotics. On the occasion, he extended a cordial invitation to all religious figures, across sects and faiths, to participate in large numbers in the Nasha Mukht J&K Padyatra scheduled for May 3. The participants shared valuable suggestions and assured full cooperation and active participation in the upcoming padyatra, reinforcing their commitment to the collective fight against drug abuse.
Srinagar, Apr 29: Scores of residents, mostly women, on Wednesday staged a protest in Mir Abad area of Batmaloo here against acute water shortage, blocking the Batmaloo-Tengpora main road and disrupting traffic movement for some time. Eyewitnesses said the protesters assembled on the road in the morning, raising slogans against the authorities for failing to ensure regular drinking water supply in the locality. The protesting women said the area has been without water for several days, causing severe inconvenience to residents. âWe have been without water for many days. Our daily routine has been badly affected and despite repeated requests, no one is listening to us,â said a protester. Another resident said the shortage has caused immense hardship for families, especially women, children and the elderly. âWe are forced to fetch water from far-off places,â she said. The protesters urged the concerned department to restore water supply without delay, warning of intensified agitation if the issue remains unresolved. Meanwhile, traffic movement on the busy Batmaloo-Tengpora road was affected due to the protest. (KNO)
Srinagar, Apr 28: Doon School Srinagar hosted 40 delegates from different parts of the country for landmark silver jubilee national TCI conference As per the school handout, it was a landmark event for the academic landscape of the Valley as Doon School Srinagar became the notable example in the region to host the Ruth Cohn Institute (RCI) for Theme-Centred Interaction (TCI) Indiaâs National Conference. The two-day event, marking the Silver Jubilee (25th year) of the Institute in India, saw 40 delegates travel from diverse corners of the country including Kerala and Punjab to participate in a high level exchange on identity and social harmony. Doon School Srinagar provided the venue for this prestigious 25th Annual National Conference. "This is a major boost for the region's educational profile. This is the first time in the history of RCI-TCI India that Srinagar has served as the host city," the handout reads. The conference was centered around the theme: â Between Cultural and Religious Identity and the TCI Approach: We Discover a New Way.â The proceedings began with a welcome address by T.V. Abdul Gafoor, followed by a presidential address by Kawaljeet Singh Dhindsa (Punjab). The conference was formally inaugurated by Showkat Hussain Khan Chairman of Doon School, Srinagar, who emphasized the urgency of value based education in navigating todayâs complex global challenges. In his keynote address, Principal of Doon School Srinagar underscored the schoolâs commitment to fostering inclusive environments, noting that educators play a pivotal role in shaping balanced individuals who can bridge cultural divides. Interactive workshops were led by renowned experts, including Dr. N. P. Hafiz Mohammad, Dr. Motti Zachariah (Coordinator, Indian Training Committee), Gireesh P and Abdurahiman A. "These sessions focused on personal growth, group dynamics, and the practical application of the TCI framework in diverse social contexts," the handout reads. The flawless execution of the historic event was credited to the coordination team comprising Sumaya Tareen, Amreen Qadir, Aneesa, Dr. Abdul Sathar, and Kasim, the handout reads. The participants hailed he hospitality and the intellectual environment provided by Doon School Srinagar and reaffirmed the TCI approach as a vital tool for promoting cooperation and harmony in a multicultural society.
Srinagar, Jan 8: Contractual faculty members working in government degree colleges of Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department (HED) have expressed strong resentment over what they term as a glaring disparity in salaries, demanding revision of their pay in line with University Grants Commission (UGC) norms and regularisation of their services. The faculty, many of whom hold PhDs and are qualified through NET, SET and JRF, said they have been denied UGC-recommended pay scales despite discharging academic responsibilities equivalent to their regular counterparts. âHundreds of highly qualified scholars have been pushed into silent suffering. For years, we have been assured that our pay revision is under consideration, but nothing has materialised so far,â said Dr Ishfaq Gowhar, a contractual faculty member. Earlier, Director Colleges J&K had acknowledged the legitimacy of the facultyâs demand, stating that while the issue was genuine, its implementation involved significant financial implications due to the large number of contractual appointments. âWe are aware that they deserve salary enhancement, but the number of contractual faculty is huge and it has financial implications,â he earlier said. Dr Gowhar pointed out that contractual lecturers, who form the backbone of the higher education system, continue to work on a fixed monthly honorarium of Rs 28,000, which has remained unchanged for nearly a decade. âThe irony is that a Class IV employee with a Class 10 qualification draws a salary exceeding Rs 50,000, while doctorate-holding teachers engaged in teaching, mentoring and academic research are paid a fraction of that,â he said. He added that institutions such as SKUAST-K, University of Kashmir and Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) have implemented revised UGC pay scales, but the Higher Education Department has failed to extend similar treatment to its contractual faculty. Dr Gowhar said the demand for âequal work, equal payâ gets prominently featured in election campaigns, raising hopes among contractual teachers. âPromises were made and slogans echoed during elections, but once the process ended, our voices were reduced to silence. Even meeting officials now feels impossible,â he said. He said contractual faculty were not seeking privileges but dignity, fairness and recognition for their service. The faculty appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Education Minister to intervene and take concrete steps towards addressing their long-pending demands. âThis issue is not merely about salaries. It is about survival, justice and dignity in the classrooms of Jammu and Kashmir,â he said.
