KU holds 2-day national workshop on intergenerational action for gender equality Srinagar Mar 15: The Centre for Womenâs Studies and Research (CWSR), University of Kashmir (KU), organised a two-day national workshop on âGive to Gain: Intergenerational Action for Gender Equalityâ at the Main Campus to deliberate on collaborative approaches for advancing gender equality through shared learning and engagement across generations. The workshop aimed to bring together academicians, researchers and students to reflect on the importance of intergenerational dialogue, knowledge sharing and collective action in addressing contemporary gender challenges. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue in strengthening gender justice initiatives. âGender equality requires sustained engagement across generations, where experience, new ideas and collective commitment come together to build more inclusive and equitable social spaces,â she said. She said that universities must serve as platforms for critical discussion and collaborative action on issues of gender and social justice. Dean, College Development Council KU, Prof. Aneesa Shafi, said that it is important to utilise the potential of each generation and create meaningful networks that can translate ideas into actionable solutions for achieving gender equality. In her keynote address, Prof. Pamela Singla, Department of Social Work, University of Delhi, spoke about the role of intergenerational engagement in strengthening feminist scholarship and practice, emphasizing the need for collaborative frameworks that address evolving gender concerns in society. Earlier, in her welcome address, Coordinator, CWSR KU Dr Roshan Ara, highlighted the objectives of the workshop and underlined the Centreâs continued efforts to promote research, dialogue and awareness on issues related to gender and social development. The two-day workshop featured technical sessions by experts and academicians on various aspects of gender equality, intergenerational dialogue, policy perspectives and contemporary gender challenges. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr. Shazia Malik, faculty at CWSR KU, who also proposed the vote of thanks.
Banihal, March 15: Ramban district on Sunday received fresh spell of snowfall and rainfall since morning after weeks of dry weather. The change in weather has raised hopes of relief among farmers in the region. Heavy rainfall was reported in the plain areas of Ramban and Banihal, while fresh snowfall is taking place in the picturesque Mahoo Valley, a well-known tourist destination in the Banihal sub-division. Despite the ongoing rain, traffic movement on the 270-kilometre JammuâSrinagar National Highway continues smoothly with vehicles plying from both sides without any disruption. Traffic police officials said that the rainfall began around 10 am on Sunday and is continuing intermittently. However, it has not affected vehicular movement on the national highway, and normal traffic is moving along the route.
Srinagar, Mar 15: The Alumni Association of SSM College of Engineering, Parihaspora organised a grand Alumni Meet at the college campus on Saturday. The event witnessed the participation of more than 100 alumni from various professional fields. The event was attended by senior alumni including Dr. Muzamil Rafiqi, Superintendent Engineer (LCMA); Er. Firdous Ahmad Bhat, Chairman IEI J&K State Centre; and Er. Irfan Ahmad Reshi, Secretary IEI. Alumni serving in government departments, corporate organizations, entrepreneurial ventures, and startups also attended the gathering. During the programme, the alumni felicitated 61 newly recruited Junior Engineers selected through JKSSRB in the R&B (PWD) and Jal Shakti Departments, who were invited as special guests. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Muzamil Rafiqi urged young engineers to work with dedication and sincerity to successfully fulfill their professional responsibilities. Er. Firdous Ahmad Bhat appreciated the role of the college management and faculty in shaping the careers of students, while Er. Irfan Ahmad Reshi emphasized strengthening alumni engagement with industry and academia. Alumni from abroad also participated, including Er. Mushafiq Ashai, a UAE-based Web Consultant, who highlighted that SSM College not only provides education but also guides students to achieve their dreams. Er. Yaseer Ahmad Regoo, Senior Manager Cyber Security at J&K Bank, stressed the need to introduce Artificial Intelligence courses in engineering and management disciplines. Er. Kamran Nisar, entrepreneur and Chairman of several organizations including Winter Fell Café, emphasized promoting an entrepreneurial culture among students. Members of the college managing committee including Dr. G. N. Qasba, Roma Wani, Prof. (Dr.) Barkat Hussain, and Prof. (Dr.) M. A. Shah (NIT Srinagar) were also present on the occasion. The event concluded with renewed commitment from alumni to support the growth and development of the institution.
Uri, Mar 15 : Security forces foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector of north Kashmirâs Baramulla district, eliminating a terrorist in an overnight operation officials said on Sunday. The Srinagar based Chinar Corps in a post on X said that based on a specific intelligence input provided by the Jammu and Kashmir Police regarding an infiltration attempt, a joint operation was launched on the intervening night of March 14 and 15 in the general area of Buchhar, Uri. "Alert troops spotted suspicious movement of a terrorist in the thicket. The ambush was readjusted and the terrorist was challenged resulting in terrorist opening indiscriminate fire," the post reads . "In the contact, a Pak terrorist was eliminated. Warlike stores including an AK rifle, pistols and large quantity of ammunition have been recovered," the post reads.
KU holds 2-day national workshop on intergenerational action for gender equality Srinagar Mar 15: The Centre for Womenâs Studies and Research (CWSR), University of Kashmir (KU), organised a two-day national workshop on âGive to Gain: Intergenerational Action for Gender Equalityâ at the Main Campus to deliberate on collaborative approaches for advancing gender equality through shared learning and engagement across generations. The workshop aimed to bring together academicians, researchers and students to reflect on the importance of intergenerational dialogue, knowledge sharing and collective action in addressing contemporary gender challenges. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue in strengthening gender justice initiatives. âGender equality requires sustained engagement across generations, where experience, new ideas and collective commitment come together to build more inclusive and equitable social spaces,â she said. She said that universities must serve as platforms for critical discussion and collaborative action on issues of gender and social justice. Dean, College Development Council KU, Prof. Aneesa Shafi, said that it is important to utilise the potential of each generation and create meaningful networks that can translate ideas into actionable solutions for achieving gender equality. In her keynote address, Prof. Pamela Singla, Department of Social Work, University of Delhi, spoke about the role of intergenerational engagement in strengthening feminist scholarship and practice, emphasizing the need for collaborative frameworks that address evolving gender concerns in society. Earlier, in her welcome address, Coordinator, CWSR KU Dr Roshan Ara, highlighted the objectives of the workshop and underlined the Centreâs continued efforts to promote research, dialogue and awareness on issues related to gender and social development. The two-day workshop featured technical sessions by experts and academicians on various aspects of gender equality, intergenerational dialogue, policy perspectives and contemporary gender challenges. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr. Shazia Malik, faculty at CWSR KU, who also proposed the vote of thanks.
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
Banihal, March 15: Ramban district on Sunday received fresh spell of snowfall and rainfall since morning after weeks of dry weather. The change in weather has raised hopes of relief among farmers in the region. Heavy rainfall was reported in the plain areas of Ramban and Banihal, while fresh snowfall is taking place in the picturesque Mahoo Valley, a well-known tourist destination in the Banihal sub-division. Despite the ongoing rain, traffic movement on the 270-kilometre JammuâSrinagar National Highway continues smoothly with vehicles plying from both sides without any disruption. Traffic police officials said that the rainfall began around 10 am on Sunday and is continuing intermittently. However, it has not affected vehicular movement on the national highway, and normal traffic is moving along the route.
Uri, Mar 15 : Security forces foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector of north Kashmirâs Baramulla district, eliminating a terrorist in an overnight operation officials said on Sunday. The Srinagar based Chinar Corps in a post on X said that based on a specific intelligence input provided by the Jammu and Kashmir Police regarding an infiltration attempt, a joint operation was launched on the intervening night of March 14 and 15 in the general area of Buchhar, Uri. "Alert troops spotted suspicious movement of a terrorist in the thicket. The ambush was readjusted and the terrorist was challenged resulting in terrorist opening indiscriminate fire," the post reads . "In the contact, a Pak terrorist was eliminated. Warlike stores including an AK rifle, pistols and large quantity of ammunition have been recovered," the post reads.
Kupwara, Mar 14: In a continuous effort to strengthen the bond between the security forces and the local population, 138 Medium Regiment of the Indian Army organized a grand Dawat-e-Iftar at Drugmulla. The event was aimed at celebrating the holy month of Ramadan while fostering a spirit of peace, brotherhood and mutual respect within the community. The Iftar gathering brought together a diverse group of participants, including local village elders, youth and religious leaders from the surrounding areas. The event provided a meaningful platform for open interaction and served as a reminder of the shared cultural fabric of the region. The proceedings were overseen by Commander 28 Artillery Brigade and Commanding Officer, 138 Medium Regiment, who welcomed the guests and interacted warmly with members of the local community. During the interaction, Indian Armyâs commitment to the well-being, security and development of the local population was emphasised. 138 Medium Regiment ensured the seamless and hospitable conduct of the evening. As the sun set and the call to prayers echoed, Army personnel and members of the local community broke their fast together, sharing a traditional meal in an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. This gesture of âHumsayaâ spirit was highly appreciated by the attendees, who noted that such initiatives play an important role in strengthening mutual trust and understanding. Members of the local community expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the hospitality and for creating an environment where soldiers and civilians could sit together as one. The evening concluded with collective prayers for peace, prosperity and continued progress of the Valley, reaffirming the enduring partnership between the Indian Army and the people it proudly serves.
Srinagar, Mar 14: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and president Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, on Saturday said that the partyâs senior leadership held a meeting and passed a resolution condemning the attack on Iran, while expressing solidarity with the country. Addressing media persons in Srinagar, Mufti said the party leaders discussed the situation in Iran and highlighted the historic and emotional ties between the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Iran. She said Iran was fighting against âevilâ and urged people in Kashmir to pray for the country during the last days of the holy month of Ramadan. Mufti also appealed to Gulf nations to stand against âtyrantsâ and support Iran in the ongoing situation. The PDP president further urged the administration led by the Lieutenant Governor to withdraw cases against protesters and release those booked during demonstrations in Kashmir. âWe request the LG administration that protesters who were slapped with FIRs should be released immediately,â she said. Referring to the recent release of Shabir Ahmad Shah, Mufti said it was a positive development and stressed that there were several other detainees who could not afford legal representation. âHis daughter fought an uphill battle. It is good that he has been released, but there are many others who cannot afford legal counsel. The authorities should do something for them as well,â she said. Mufti also called for the release of elderly leaders associated with Jamaat-e-Islami who continue to remain in detention. On withdrawal of chargers on Sonam Wangchuk, Mehbooba Mufti said it was ironic that a person who had contributed significantly to society was jailed. âHe has contributed so much to society. It was ironic that he was jailed. I am glad that he has been released,â Mehbooba Mufti added.
Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmirâs Baramulla district is proving that dedication and ambition can propel one to global heights. Munaf-ul-Raquib who holds a B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, has gained international recognition for his research on black holes and cosmology. Munaf-ul-Raquib revealed that his paper on the thermodynamics of black holes was recently published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR). âAbout a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,â he said. He said that since his research was published in the international journal, he has been receiving opportunities from various countries to participate in research dialogues. Raquib added that in the coming months he is scheduled to participate in international conferences in Paris on April 16 and later in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Sopore aerospace engineer noted that he is also participating in various conferences across different countries. Speaking about his research, Munaf-ul-Raquib addressed a fundamental paradox in astrophysics: how black holes can appear to violate thermodynamic laws, particularly concerning entropy.âIf we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,â he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeebâs research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. âIn this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,â he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. âIt is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,â he said. Raqeeb shared that Astrophysics was his childhood dream, and his grandfather encouraged me immensely. "After my grandfather passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic, my parents continued to champion my aspirations. My parents left no stone unturned in helping me pursue my dreams,â he said. He said that his academic path included taking the JEE and later the AME CET entrance exams, through which he secured a seat in aerospace engineering at the Nasik Research Centre. âMy parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,â he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. âJust as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.â âYoung people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,â he further added.