Joins Padyatra in Udhampur for Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir Jammu, April 27: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Monday said that unity will be our shield and resolve our weapon in the war against drugs "Let us commit to shaping a Jammu Kashmir where young people carve free destinies, families remain whole, communities thrive strong, and aspirations blaze anew. We stand unwavering for our youth, for our future," he said. He said the battle against drug menace demands unity beyond all divisions. "As citizens of Jammu Kashmir, we should pledge to stand together, bound by our common duty to protect our youth, strengthen families, and secure prosperity," he added. The Lieutenant Governor was speaking at Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan at Udhampur. The Lieutenant Governor had joined thousands of residents in Padyatra and urged every citizen to recognize Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan as our shared war against narcotics and he said that together we must win this battle. âJammu Kashmir is now rising with renewed strength to reject the drug menace that corrodes our society. We vow to shield our youth from its grip. I assure the people that the spirit of our land will not be stifled. This is the hour for society to awaken, to fight and to prevail,â the Lieutenant Governor said. He said that no single authority can wage this battle against drug abuse alone and it must ignite within every heart. âLet every village, hamlet, and city of Udhampur become fortresses of resistance; let every household stand as a vigilant bastion. I call upon each resident to enlist as a warrior in this cause,â the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor observed that every section of society must embrace the spirit of Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan so that history records that on April 27, the flame of hope, unity, and determination was kindled in Udhampur. âEvery family must rise, ensuring that chronicles remember Udhampurâs united stand, united fight, united triumph and a legacy of a narcotics-free tomorrow dedicated to nation-building," he said. He said in the coming 83 days, let people reshape societyâs perception and treat those trapped in addiction as sufferers who deserve compassion and not condemnation. "Rehabilitation must restore their dignity and reintegrate them into the community. Let collective energy drive the Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir campaign. Transform awareness into accountability, ensuring public participation deepens and highlight the vital role of women and youth in leading this fight,â the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that this war against drug menace will unfold in phases, each demanding courage and devotion. He further added that awareness campaigns must enlighten families about drug addiction symptoms and dangers of narcotics and they should be reminded that the threat is not distant, but among us. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor flagged off an Anti-drug awareness Bike rally and launched Mini-Olympics under the Nasha Mukt J&K Campaign. He also handed over sanction letters to individuals recovered from substance abuse, and felicitated the winner of Nasha Mukt Ideas Championship.
Srinagar, Apr 27: Government Degree College (GDC) Qazigund on Monday organised a Policeâcommunity interactive session on drug hotspot mapping and. The event was organised in continuation to awareness activities under Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA). The event organised by the College well-being and substance abuse prevention cell (CWASC) in collaboration with Qazigund Police also focused on role of youth in awareness campaign. All the students of the college attended the programme. Station House Office Qazigund Manav Dhanteiya was the resource person at the event. In his address to the students, he spoke in detail about the NDPS Act, the dangers of peer pressure and the concept of gateway drugs. âDrugs offer only a temporary relief and fatal escape whereas the creative activities are more ecstatic, fruitful and fulfilling," he said. He further said that sports, music, and other constructive engagements are effective deterrents against substance abuse. "We need to grow a strong will to eradicate this menace, and individual efforts do impact the collective endeavours,â he said. A healthy interaction was also held at the occasion in which the students clarified heir queries regarding the theme. In a separate session, SHO also interacted with the students aspiring for the UPSC examination, stressing consistency, self-analysis, understanding the nature of the examination, and the importance of incremental gains. "Your efforts to realise the high goals will keep you motivated and away from bad habits like drug abuse,â he said. In his Presidential address, Principal GDC Qazigund Prof.(Dr.) Sudhir Singh emphasized the need for sustained policeâcommunity collaboration and proactive youth participation to address social challenges, particularly drug abuse. âI want to see our students as active ambassadors of the wellness campaigns,â he added. He thanked the resource person for the insightful interaction and said that more such programmes would be organised, especially for students seeking guidance and counseling for specific careers. A team of faculty members accompanied by Police Cops visited the neighborhood shops to aware them regarding the section 6(b) of the COTPA 2003 protocol which Prohibits selling tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions. Prof.Talib Ahmad Ganaie Nodal Officer CWAAC was the organizer of the programme. Earlier the programme commenced with welcome address by Prof. Nehad Kaniz Fatima Nodal Officer CWAAC who spoke about the objectives of NMBA and underlined that awareness programmes act as a preventive tool. Fatima reiterated that prevention is better than cure. The event was attended by the faculty members, including Prof.Aufaq Ahmad Zargar, Dr. Ishtiyaq Ahmad Shah, Prof.Irshad Ahmad Mantoo and Prof. Rameez Ahmad Shah .
Srinagar, Apr 21: Doon School Srinagar Tuesday hosted its annual Investiture Ceremony-2026 in a resplendent display of tradition, discipline, and youthful aspiration. The event served as the formal induction of the newly elected Student Council and was distinguished by the presence of high ranking military top brass, special guests, and the senior leadership of the school. As per the school handout, the proceedings commenced with a grand ceremonial reception at the campus gates. GOC 31 Sub Area Major General Abhijeet Mitra was the chief guest at the occasion while Colonel Rajeev Bhooshan was the guest of Honour at the occasion and Abrar Khan Tareen was invited as the special guest. All the dignitaries were ushered in to the rhythmic cadence of the school band. The Chief Guest and the Guest of Honour were escorted to the dais by the Chairman Showkat Hussain Khan and the School Principal besides the incoming student prefects. Chairman Doon School Srinagar, Showkat Hussain Khan delivered an evocative address and reaffirmed the commitment of the institution to sculpting character and visionary leadership. Chairman and the Principal formally felicitated the Chief Guest and the Guest of Honour by presenting tokens of appreciation in recognition of their distinguished service to the nation. The zenith of the event was the solemn Oath Taking Ceremony. Amidst an aura of gravity, the Principal administered the pledge to the new Head Boy Hassan and new Head Girl Mufti Fajr. In a symbolic vesting of authority, Major General Abhijeet Mitra and Chairman Showkat Hussain Khan performed the pinning of badges and sashes, officially charging the young leaders with their new responsibilities. In their maiden addresses, the newly minted Head Girl and Head Boy pledged to uphold the legacy of the school with integrity. Addressing the gathering, Major General Abhijeet Mitra delivered a stirring speech on the virtues of discipline and selfless service, exhorting the council to "lead with a blend of courage and empathy." The formal atmosphere was periodically lightened by the schoolâs cultural troupes, featuring a soulful rendition of the contemporary hit "Believer" followed by a traditional Kashmiri folk performance that celebrated the regionâs rich heritage. The ceremony culminated with the resounding notes of the School Anthem and a formal Vote of Thanks, marking a new chapter for the student leadership.
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.
Joins Padyatra in Udhampur for Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir Jammu, April 27: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Monday said that unity will be our shield and resolve our weapon in the war against drugs "Let us commit to shaping a Jammu Kashmir where young people carve free destinies, families remain whole, communities thrive strong, and aspirations blaze anew. We stand unwavering for our youth, for our future," he said. He said the battle against drug menace demands unity beyond all divisions. "As citizens of Jammu Kashmir, we should pledge to stand together, bound by our common duty to protect our youth, strengthen families, and secure prosperity," he added. The Lieutenant Governor was speaking at Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan at Udhampur. The Lieutenant Governor had joined thousands of residents in Padyatra and urged every citizen to recognize Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan as our shared war against narcotics and he said that together we must win this battle. âJammu Kashmir is now rising with renewed strength to reject the drug menace that corrodes our society. We vow to shield our youth from its grip. I assure the people that the spirit of our land will not be stifled. This is the hour for society to awaken, to fight and to prevail,â the Lieutenant Governor said. He said that no single authority can wage this battle against drug abuse alone and it must ignite within every heart. âLet every village, hamlet, and city of Udhampur become fortresses of resistance; let every household stand as a vigilant bastion. I call upon each resident to enlist as a warrior in this cause,â the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor observed that every section of society must embrace the spirit of Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyan so that history records that on April 27, the flame of hope, unity, and determination was kindled in Udhampur. âEvery family must rise, ensuring that chronicles remember Udhampurâs united stand, united fight, united triumph and a legacy of a narcotics-free tomorrow dedicated to nation-building," he said. He said in the coming 83 days, let people reshape societyâs perception and treat those trapped in addiction as sufferers who deserve compassion and not condemnation. "Rehabilitation must restore their dignity and reintegrate them into the community. Let collective energy drive the Drug-Free Jammu Kashmir campaign. Transform awareness into accountability, ensuring public participation deepens and highlight the vital role of women and youth in leading this fight,â the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that this war against drug menace will unfold in phases, each demanding courage and devotion. He further added that awareness campaigns must enlighten families about drug addiction symptoms and dangers of narcotics and they should be reminded that the threat is not distant, but among us. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor flagged off an Anti-drug awareness Bike rally and launched Mini-Olympics under the Nasha Mukt J&K Campaign. He also handed over sanction letters to individuals recovered from substance abuse, and felicitated the winner of Nasha Mukt Ideas Championship.
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, Apr 27: Government Degree College (GDC) Qazigund on Monday organised a Policeâcommunity interactive session on drug hotspot mapping and. The event was organised in continuation to awareness activities under Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA). The event organised by the College well-being and substance abuse prevention cell (CWASC) in collaboration with Qazigund Police also focused on role of youth in awareness campaign. All the students of the college attended the programme. Station House Office Qazigund Manav Dhanteiya was the resource person at the event. In his address to the students, he spoke in detail about the NDPS Act, the dangers of peer pressure and the concept of gateway drugs. âDrugs offer only a temporary relief and fatal escape whereas the creative activities are more ecstatic, fruitful and fulfilling," he said. He further said that sports, music, and other constructive engagements are effective deterrents against substance abuse. "We need to grow a strong will to eradicate this menace, and individual efforts do impact the collective endeavours,â he said. A healthy interaction was also held at the occasion in which the students clarified heir queries regarding the theme. In a separate session, SHO also interacted with the students aspiring for the UPSC examination, stressing consistency, self-analysis, understanding the nature of the examination, and the importance of incremental gains. "Your efforts to realise the high goals will keep you motivated and away from bad habits like drug abuse,â he said. In his Presidential address, Principal GDC Qazigund Prof.(Dr.) Sudhir Singh emphasized the need for sustained policeâcommunity collaboration and proactive youth participation to address social challenges, particularly drug abuse. âI want to see our students as active ambassadors of the wellness campaigns,â he added. He thanked the resource person for the insightful interaction and said that more such programmes would be organised, especially for students seeking guidance and counseling for specific careers. A team of faculty members accompanied by Police Cops visited the neighborhood shops to aware them regarding the section 6(b) of the COTPA 2003 protocol which Prohibits selling tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions. Prof.Talib Ahmad Ganaie Nodal Officer CWAAC was the organizer of the programme. Earlier the programme commenced with welcome address by Prof. Nehad Kaniz Fatima Nodal Officer CWAAC who spoke about the objectives of NMBA and underlined that awareness programmes act as a preventive tool. Fatima reiterated that prevention is better than cure. The event was attended by the faculty members, including Prof.Aufaq Ahmad Zargar, Dr. Ishtiyaq Ahmad Shah, Prof.Irshad Ahmad Mantoo and Prof. Rameez Ahmad Shah .
Lays foundation stones of several key developmental projects in Kulgam Kulgam, Apr 18: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo Saturday laid foundation stones for several key developmental projects in Kulgam district and also dedicated vital infrastructure to the public. MLA, Kulgam, M.Y Tarigami; Mission Director ICDS, Director AYUSH, ADC Kulgam, senior officers of district administration, other sectoral officers and large number of locals were also present on the occasion. In line with the Governmentâs sustained push for inclusive and equitable development across Jammu & Kashmir, Minister laid foundation stone for âViksit Villageâ at Yarikah-A, D.H Pora. Speaking on the occasion, Sakeena Itoo said that under this flagship initiative, rural infrastructure will be improved, besides basic amenities will be significantly enhanced to transform this village into a self-reliant and sustainable place. âGovernment is prioritizing rural transformation through targeted investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social welfareâ, she stated. She added that this initiative reflects the Governments approach towards grassroots-focused development strategy. Afterwards, the Minister also laid the foundation stone for the construction and upgradation of the ChiriporaâTrengabal road under the Public Works (R&B) department at an approximate cost of Rs. 2 crores. Addressing the locals after foundation laying ceremony, the Minister said that this project is expected to significantly improve accessibility, reduce travel time and open new avenues for economic growth and service delivery in these areas. Highlighting various achievements of Omar Abdullah led Government, Sakeena Itoo maintained that the Government is committed to equitable development of Jammu and Kashmir, with particular focus on rural and peripheral areas. She outlined that the Government has accelerated rollout of rural road connectivity projects, expansion of educational infrastructure, strengthening healthcare facilities, and enhanced social security coverage to ensure that development benefits reach every section of society. She further underscored that special focus is being laid on bridging developmental gaps in remote and underserved areas. Later, the Minister also inaugurated a 100-bedded Girlsâ Hostel (KGBV â Type IV) at Kulgam, aimed at promoting access to education for girls from far-flung and disadvantaged areas. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the hostel represents a significant step towards empowering girl students by reducing dropout rates and encouraging higher enrolment in secondary and higher secondary education. She reiterated that the Government is committed to further expanding such facilities across Jammu and Kashmir to ensure equitable access to education for all. The Minister also directed the concerned authorities to ensure the provision of modern amenities, quality services, and safe environment for girl students, to ensure it becomes safe, secure, and quality residential accommodation. Meanwhile, Sakeena Itoo also inaugurated Ayush Dispensary at Wovri Khull as well as building for Higher Secondary School at Khull D.H Pora. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister reaffirmed the Governmentâs long-term vision, stating that sustained efforts are underway to build robust infrastructure, promote gender equity in education, and create livelihood opportunities, thereby ensuring comprehensive and inclusive growth across Jammu & Kashmir. She emphasized that these initiatives are part of the governmentâs broader vision to ensure equitable growth, improved public services, and enhanced quality of life for people in rural and underserved areas. She reiterated that the administration remains steadfast in its commitment to fast-tracking development works while ensuring transparency and accountability at every level. Later, the Minister also visited Ardpora Khull, and witnessed the final match of Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo Memorial Cricket Tournament. Interacting with the players on the occasion, Sakeena Itoo underscored the importance of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork, and a healthy lifestyle among young people. She assured participants continued government support for the promotion of sports infrastructure and youth engagement activities across the district. She also distributed trophies among the Champion and runner up teams, as well as medallions among other top performers of the tournament.
New facility to augment healthcare infrastructure & provide advanced, high-quality care for women and newborns: CM Srinagar, Apr 18: J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Saturday inspected the ongoing construction of the Extension Block at Government Lalla Ded Hospital and conducted a comprehensive review of the projectâs progress, execution strategy and infrastructure development. The upcoming facility, being developed at the premier maternity care hospital, is designed as a dedicated Infertility and Gynaecological Oncology Centre and will significantly strengthen specialised maternal and neonatal healthcare services in Jammu and Kashmir. During the visit, the Chief Minister assessed the pace and quality of construction, reviewed augmentation of critical facilities and emphasised adherence to timelines. He directed the concerned authorities to ensure expeditious completion of the project while maintaining the highest standards of quality. He was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Principal and Dean Government Medical College Srinagar Dr. (Prof) Iffat Hassan, Administrator GMC Srinagar Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, Medical Superintendent LD Hospital, and senior officers from PWD (R&B), J&KERA Kashmir, among others. The Chief Minister was briefed on the project, which is being executed under the World Bank-funded Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project (JTFRP) by the PWD (R&B) Department at an estimated cost of âč118.22 crore. The facility is being constructed as a G+5+attic structure with a total built-up area of about 11,640 square metres and will house around 117 specialised beds (65 adults and 52 infants) for advanced care. Officials informed that the centre will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure including modular operation theatres, ICU, HDU, NICU, Labour, Delivery and Recovery (LDR) suites, IVF laboratories and advanced fetal intervention facilities, in line with modern hospital standards followed at national and international levels. Highlighting the projectâs structural resilience, it was given put that the building is being developed using advanced base isolation technology with 43 friction pendulum isolators, ensuring high seismic safety in Zone-V. The design and engineering components have been vetted by premier technical institutions to ensure quality and safety. Reviewing the progress, the Chief Minister was informed that the foundation works and ground floor structural framework are fully in place. Installation of base isolators is at an advanced stage, while pre-engineered building (PEB) structural works are underway across multiple zones. Procurement of major medical equipment, as well as mechanical and electrical systems, has also been initiated. The Chief Minister stressed the need for close coordination among all stakeholder departments, particularly the Health Department, to ensure uninterrupted fund flow, timely approvals and clearances, and smooth operationalisation of the facility upon completion. Emphasising the importance of the project, he said that the new facility will mark a major milestone in upgrading healthcare infrastructure and providing specialised, accessible and high-quality care to women and newborns across Jammu and Kashmir.
Meer Javeed Kupwara , Apr18: The Crossed Swords Division of Indian Army on Saturday installed a Tape water Point at Government Primary School Resripora Qaziabad in education zone Langate. The initiative was taken in continuation of the Indian Armyâs efforts of contributing towards the improvement of infrastructure in educational institutions. The requirement of safe drinking water for school students was projected by the school staff and village elders during various liaison meetings with the Army following which it came for the help of the school. The Headmaster of the school, village Sarpanch and veterans of the area were present on the occasion. The Students of School and the authorities of Education Department lauded the Indian Army for its continued support to the civil population under Operation Sadbhavna. The initiative is expected to significantly improve digital literacy, academic exposure and overall educational standards of students.
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.
