Srinagar, Mar 23: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) is devising a mechanism to shift the regular classes to online and hybrid mode amid a growing Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) crisis. Top officials of SKUAST-K said that main and satellite campuses have started facing LPG crisis. âKeeping in view the issue, we have directed the deans of the university to gear for online classes or hybrid mode of education," he said. The official said the instruction for online and hybrid modes of education is a precautionary measure, if the situation deteriorates and demands shift to online education, we must be ready for that to avoid the academic losses. âWe are preparing a Learning Management System (LMS) for the online and hybrid mode of education because more than 65-70 percent of the students in different campuses of SKUAST-K are either residing in university hostels or in Paying Guests (PGs),â the official said. The official further said that for the first time, the university has introduced online registration for the spring semester session. âEarlier, the students were supposed to apply for the semester registration in the offline mode, however due to the LPG crisis we have started online registration so that the students who are currently not in the campuses can apply for the registration online," he said. âIf situation demands online education, it requires an online portal, we will are working on it,â the official added. About the commencement of regular classes for the spring semester session the official said that the classes should normally start by next week. âLetâs see what the situation demands. As of now the LPG crisis are growing," he said. He added that SKUAST-K has an enrollment of over 6,000 students in different campuses of the university in Kashmir. "At least 25 percent students are from outside Kashmir region and more than 1000 students are outside J&K," he said. He said the varsity has 30 hostels in different campuses of Kashmir region and on an average at least one hundred students are residing in each hostel. "Moreover many students are residing in PGs,â the official said.
Jammu, Mar 23: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said a significant relaxation in Jammu and Kashmir's compassionate appointment policy has been adopted, extending job eligibility to families of government employees who died due to natural causes. Talking to reporters in Jammu, the LG said that 438 appointment letters have already been issued to next of kin (NoKs) under the government's support measures, many of them linked to families affected during the pandemic period. "For a long period of time, especially during the pandemic, a large number of people lost their lives. I am aware of their pain," he said He added that the administration was making efforts to reach out to such families. He said Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police have been directed to expedite pending cases by forwarding them to the General Administration Department (GAD) at the earliest, while ensuring that each case undergoes proper verification. "Every application is processed only after thorough verification and approval. We have to ensure that no ineligible person benefits from the scheme," he said. He highlighted the key policy shift and said that families of government employees who died natural deaths, earlier not covered under the norms, are now being included under the compassionate appointment framework after relaxation in rules. He described the initiative as an effort to provide relief to grieving families and "heal their wounds."
Srinagar, Mar 23: Awami Itihaad Party on Monday welcomed the significant and timely observations made by Supreme Court Judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan on the misuse of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), calling it a âpowerful reaffirmation of constitutional values and democratic conscience.â In a statement issued here, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said that Justice Bhuyanâs remarks that âmindless arrests under UAPA with negligible conviction rates cannot be a model for Viksit Bharatâ have given voice to a concern long felt across many sections of society, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir. Inam said the data cited by the Judge, showing a conviction rate of around five percent under UAPA with over 95 percent acquittals, raises serious questions about the manner in which the law has been invoked. âWhen such a vast majority of cases do not lead to conviction, it naturally points towards overuse, if not misuse, of the law. The human cost of such actions, especially prolonged incarceration without timely trial, cannot be ignored,â he added. Inam Un Nabi further appreciated Justice Bhuyanâs emphasis on protecting the space for debate and dissent, stating that democracy thrives not on silence but on dialogue. âThe observation that dissent should not be criminalised and that diverse views must be respected is a reminder of the very spirit of our Constitution,â he said. Highlighting the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the AIP spokesperson said that many individuals continue to remain behind bars for years, often far away from their families, with cases moving slowly through the judicial system. "The Judgeâs remarks reinforce the need to relook at such cases with a humane and constitutional approach,â he said. Inam Un Nabi also lauded the broader vision articulated by Justice Bhuyan, where development is not merely economic but also rooted in justice, equality and dignity. âA truly developed India must ensure that laws are not perceived as instruments of fear but as protectors of rights,â he said. He expressed hope that these observations would initiate a wider national introspection and lead to corrective measures where required. âStrength of a nation lies in its ability to course-correct. When voices from within the judiciary call for balance, fairness and restraint, it is an opportunity to reinforce trust in institutions,â he added. He reiterated AIPâs consistent stand and said that peace, stability and development can only be sustained through justice, dialogue and respect for democratic freedoms.
Srinagar, Mar 23: Cash, gold and copper utensils were among the things donated by people in some areas of Kashmir for the relief fund for war-hit Iran, officials said. Expressing gratitude for the donations, the Iranian Embassy in a post on X said this act of kindness will ânever be forgottenâ. A day after the Eid celebrations, youth in Shia-dominated areas of the valley on Sunday went from house to house to collect donations for those affected by the West Asia war in Iran. "There is huge devastation caused by this illegal war imposed on Iran by the Zionist regime of Israel and its supporters. The least the civilised world can do is send aid to the suffering people of Iran," Aijaz Ahmad, a resident of Rainawari, said during the donation drive. People from all walks of life, including men, women and children, participated in the donation drive, the officials said. They said women, in particular, have come forward and contributed generously by donating gold jewellery, copper utensils, and other valuable household items. Some families have also offered livestock. According to officials, children also played their part by donating their savings and pocket money. The donations have been collected, especially in Budgam and Baramulla, with a considerable population of Shias. The collected contributions are expected to be channelled through official relief organisations, including the Iranian Embassy, to ensure they reach those in need, they added. Sharing photos of the donations, the Iranian Embassy in a post on X said, âWith hearts full of gratitude, we sincerely thank the kind people of Kashmir for standing with the people of Iran through their humanitarian support and heartfelt solidarity; this kindness will never be forgotten.â In another post, it said, âWe will never forget your kindness and humanity. Thank you, India.â
Srinagar, Mar 23: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) is devising a mechanism to shift the regular classes to online and hybrid mode amid a growing Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) crisis. Top officials of SKUAST-K said that main and satellite campuses have started facing LPG crisis. âKeeping in view the issue, we have directed the deans of the university to gear for online classes or hybrid mode of education," he said. The official said the instruction for online and hybrid modes of education is a precautionary measure, if the situation deteriorates and demands shift to online education, we must be ready for that to avoid the academic losses. âWe are preparing a Learning Management System (LMS) for the online and hybrid mode of education because more than 65-70 percent of the students in different campuses of SKUAST-K are either residing in university hostels or in Paying Guests (PGs),â the official said. The official further said that for the first time, the university has introduced online registration for the spring semester session. âEarlier, the students were supposed to apply for the semester registration in the offline mode, however due to the LPG crisis we have started online registration so that the students who are currently not in the campuses can apply for the registration online," he said. âIf situation demands online education, it requires an online portal, we will are working on it,â the official added. About the commencement of regular classes for the spring semester session the official said that the classes should normally start by next week. âLetâs see what the situation demands. As of now the LPG crisis are growing," he said. He added that SKUAST-K has an enrollment of over 6,000 students in different campuses of the university in Kashmir. "At least 25 percent students are from outside Kashmir region and more than 1000 students are outside J&K," he said. He said the varsity has 30 hostels in different campuses of Kashmir region and on an average at least one hundred students are residing in each hostel. "Moreover many students are residing in PGs,â the official said.
Srinagar, Feb 25: Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday evening on his maiden visit to Jammu and Kashmir, marking his first official engagement in the Union Territory since assuming office. The officials said the Vice-President was received at Srinagar Airport by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdulah and other senior officials. âDelighted to welcome Honâble Vice-President of India, Shri C P Radhakrishnan Ji at the Srinagar Airport,â LG Sinha wrote on X.     Office of the J&K Chief Minister wrote on X that the CM received Honâble Vice-President of India upon his arrival at Srinagar Airport today. After landing in Srinagar, the Vice-President drove to Lok Bhavan where LG Sinha presented him with a souvenir, said an official.  He said the Vice-President will attend the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir as a chief guest at its Hazratbal campus on Thursday. âThe programme is scheduled to begin in the forenoon with the academic procession, followed by the Vice-Chancellorâs annual report highlighting the Universityâs academic achievements, research output and institutional milestones,â said the official, adding, âVice-President Radhakrishnan will then deliver the convocation address and formally confer degrees upon graduating students.â He said that Lieutenant Governor and KU Chancellor, Manoj Sinha, will preside over the convocation, while Chief Minister and Pro-Chancellor, Omar Abdullah, will attend the event as a guest of honour. âA total of 59,558 degrees â 44,910 graduates, 13,545 postgraduates, 461 MD/MS, four MCH, 18 MPhil and 620 PhDs â will be conferred at the convocation,â said an official. KU Vice-Chancellor Nilofer Khan said the convocation "celebrates the academic accomplishments of our students and reaffirms our commitment to quality education, research and public engagement." She added that the presence of the Vice-President of India at the event reflects the growing national recognition of the university's academic and research contributions. Elaborate and multi-layered security arrangements have been put in place across Srinagar, particularly in and around the HazratbalâNishatâHarwan axis. Senior police and civil administration officers have reviewed the security and logistical preparations to ensure smooth conduct of the event. Meanwhile, authorities have also issued a detailed traffic advisory for parts of Srinagar tomorrow, with restrictions to remain in force from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
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, Mar 23: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) is devising a mechanism to shift the regular classes to online and hybrid mode amid a growing Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) crisis. Top officials of SKUAST-K said that main and satellite campuses have started facing LPG crisis. âKeeping in view the issue, we have directed the deans of the university to gear for online classes or hybrid mode of education," he said. The official said the instruction for online and hybrid modes of education is a precautionary measure, if the situation deteriorates and demands shift to online education, we must be ready for that to avoid the academic losses. âWe are preparing a Learning Management System (LMS) for the online and hybrid mode of education because more than 65-70 percent of the students in different campuses of SKUAST-K are either residing in university hostels or in Paying Guests (PGs),â the official said. The official further said that for the first time, the university has introduced online registration for the spring semester session. âEarlier, the students were supposed to apply for the semester registration in the offline mode, however due to the LPG crisis we have started online registration so that the students who are currently not in the campuses can apply for the registration online," he said. âIf situation demands online education, it requires an online portal, we will are working on it,â the official added. About the commencement of regular classes for the spring semester session the official said that the classes should normally start by next week. âLetâs see what the situation demands. As of now the LPG crisis are growing," he said. He added that SKUAST-K has an enrollment of over 6,000 students in different campuses of the university in Kashmir. "At least 25 percent students are from outside Kashmir region and more than 1000 students are outside J&K," he said. He said the varsity has 30 hostels in different campuses of Kashmir region and on an average at least one hundred students are residing in each hostel. "Moreover many students are residing in PGs,â the official said.
Srinagar, Mar 23: Awami Itihaad Party on Monday welcomed the significant and timely observations made by Supreme Court Judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan on the misuse of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), calling it a âpowerful reaffirmation of constitutional values and democratic conscience.â In a statement issued here, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said that Justice Bhuyanâs remarks that âmindless arrests under UAPA with negligible conviction rates cannot be a model for Viksit Bharatâ have given voice to a concern long felt across many sections of society, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir. Inam said the data cited by the Judge, showing a conviction rate of around five percent under UAPA with over 95 percent acquittals, raises serious questions about the manner in which the law has been invoked. âWhen such a vast majority of cases do not lead to conviction, it naturally points towards overuse, if not misuse, of the law. The human cost of such actions, especially prolonged incarceration without timely trial, cannot be ignored,â he added. Inam Un Nabi further appreciated Justice Bhuyanâs emphasis on protecting the space for debate and dissent, stating that democracy thrives not on silence but on dialogue. âThe observation that dissent should not be criminalised and that diverse views must be respected is a reminder of the very spirit of our Constitution,â he said. Highlighting the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the AIP spokesperson said that many individuals continue to remain behind bars for years, often far away from their families, with cases moving slowly through the judicial system. "The Judgeâs remarks reinforce the need to relook at such cases with a humane and constitutional approach,â he said. Inam Un Nabi also lauded the broader vision articulated by Justice Bhuyan, where development is not merely economic but also rooted in justice, equality and dignity. âA truly developed India must ensure that laws are not perceived as instruments of fear but as protectors of rights,â he said. He expressed hope that these observations would initiate a wider national introspection and lead to corrective measures where required. âStrength of a nation lies in its ability to course-correct. When voices from within the judiciary call for balance, fairness and restraint, it is an opportunity to reinforce trust in institutions,â he added. He reiterated AIPâs consistent stand and said that peace, stability and development can only be sustained through justice, dialogue and respect for democratic freedoms.
Srinagar, Mar 23: Cash, gold and copper utensils were among the things donated by people in some areas of Kashmir for the relief fund for war-hit Iran, officials said. Expressing gratitude for the donations, the Iranian Embassy in a post on X said this act of kindness will ânever be forgottenâ. A day after the Eid celebrations, youth in Shia-dominated areas of the valley on Sunday went from house to house to collect donations for those affected by the West Asia war in Iran. "There is huge devastation caused by this illegal war imposed on Iran by the Zionist regime of Israel and its supporters. The least the civilised world can do is send aid to the suffering people of Iran," Aijaz Ahmad, a resident of Rainawari, said during the donation drive. People from all walks of life, including men, women and children, participated in the donation drive, the officials said. They said women, in particular, have come forward and contributed generously by donating gold jewellery, copper utensils, and other valuable household items. Some families have also offered livestock. According to officials, children also played their part by donating their savings and pocket money. The donations have been collected, especially in Budgam and Baramulla, with a considerable population of Shias. The collected contributions are expected to be channelled through official relief organisations, including the Iranian Embassy, to ensure they reach those in need, they added. Sharing photos of the donations, the Iranian Embassy in a post on X said, âWith hearts full of gratitude, we sincerely thank the kind people of Kashmir for standing with the people of Iran through their humanitarian support and heartfelt solidarity; this kindness will never be forgotten.â In another post, it said, âWe will never forget your kindness and humanity. Thank you, India.â
Langate, March 18: In a significant gesture aimed at promoting communal harmony and strengthening ties with the local population, the Indian Armyâs Langate Army Camp organised a grand Iftar gathering in Langate area of North Kashmirâs Kupwara district on Tuesday. The event witnessed the participation of senior officers from the Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police, members of the civil administration, media fraternity, political representatives, and prominent citizens from the area. The gathering brought together people from different walks of life, reflecting a shared commitment towards peace and unity. The Iftar commenced with collective prayers, where participants prayed for peace, prosperity, and well-being of the nation and its people. The occasion, held during the holy month of Ramadan, symbolized the spirit of compassion, brotherhood, and mutual respect. Speaking on the occasion, attendees appreciated the initiative by the Army, stating that such interactions play a vital role in bridging gaps and fostering trust between security forces and civilians. They emphasized the need for continued engagement to build a peaceful and cooperative environment in the region. The evening was marked by a warm and cordial atmosphere as guests shared traditional Ramadan delicacies and engaged in meaningful interactions. The event also highlighted the rich cultural ethos of the region, where communal harmony and coexistence remain deeply rooted values. The Indian Army, through such outreach programs, continues to make efforts towards strengthening its bond with the local populace, promoting goodwill, and encouraging a collective approach towards peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir.
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.
