Srinagar, Sep 20:Â In a significant development, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), Jammu and Kashmir Campus, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening academic, clinical and professional collaboration in the areas of rehabilitation, mental health, behavioural forensic services, research and training. The MoU was formally signed by the Directors of SKIMS and Rashtriya Raksha University, Jammu and Kashmir Campus, on the occasion graced by distinguished dignitaries, including former Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Kashmir and Lifetime Professor Dr. Mehraj Uddin Mir, RRU J&K Campus Assistant Director Dr. Mohammad Akmal Shah, Assistant Professor Dr. Mudasir Bhat and Director Finance SKIMS. Speaking on the occasion Director, SKIMS, said this MoU will strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration in clinical learning, rehabilitation, mental health and research. DirectorRashtriya Raksha University, Jammu and Kashmir Campus, said this collaboration will provide valuable clinical exposure to our students and strengthen joint research and training in behavioural sciences and different areas of forensic services. "The agreement provides a framework for collaboration in clinical and forensic teaching, mental health services, rehabilitation, forensic mental health services, capacity building, joint research, academic publications, internships, faculty exchange and knowledge sharing," the official handout reads. As per the handout, the two institutions will also collaborate on joint research projects, publications, scientific workshops, seminars, symposia, conferences and specialised training programmes on mutually identified areas. "The collaboration will also support the development of integrated approaches to challenges relating to disability besides promoting capacity building and interdisciplinary learning," it reads. The collaboration is expected to provide a structured platform for academic exchange, supervised clinical learning, interdisciplinary research and professional training, while strengthening institutional cooperation between SKIMS and RRU, J&K campus.
Kota, Sep 20: The career and coaching hub of Kota continues to emerge as a platform for talented students from villages and small towns who, despite limited resources and lack of proper guidance, aspire to achieve their academic and professional goals. One such story is that of Prabhat Kumar Yadav, a resident of Devkipur village in Machhli tehsil of Uttar Pradeshâs Jaunpur district, who has secured All India Rank (AIR) 3864 in NEET UG 2026 and secured admission to King Georgeâs Medical University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus. Prabhat prepared for the medical entrance examination at ALLEN Career Institute in Kota. He had earlier secured 89.44 per cent marks in Class 10 and 83.44 per cent in Class 12. His achievement has brought celebrations not only to Devkipur but also to around four neighbouring villages. Prabhatâs father, Mahendra Kumar Yadav, has been driving an auto-rickshaw in Mumbai for nearly 20 years to support his family. Living away from his wife, children and elderly father in a small chawl in Mumbai, Mahendra continued working hard to meet the familyâs needs and support his sonâs ambition of becoming a doctor. A video of the family celebrating Prabhatâs success has gone viral on social media. Mahendra became emotional after receiving the news of his sonâs achievement, while Prabhatâs grandfather, Indra Bahadur Yadav, celebrated by dancing. In the viral video, Indra Bahadur said Prabhat had honoured his fatherâs hard work and sacrifices through his achievement. Prabhat lives in Devkipur with his grandfather, mother Bansraji and siblings, while his father has spent nearly two decades working in Mumbai. Speaking about his achievement, Prabhat said the hard work and sacrifices of his family members, coupled with the guidance he received at ALLEN Kota, played a major role in his success. He said he now wants to become a good doctor and serve his village and society. Prabhat initially studied while staying in his village and subsequently came to Kota for better preparation for NEET. He underwent nearly two years of coaching and enrolled as a classroom student at ALLEN Career Institute. He received a 50 per cent fee concession, while his father paid the remaining fee in monthly instalments. His maternal uncle, Dayaram Yadav, also supported him by arranging accommodation and food. Prabhatâs first attempt yielded 504 marks. Determined to improve his performance, he intensified his preparation and eventually secured 627 marks and AIR 3864 in NEET UG 2026. ALLEN Founder Dr Naveen Maheshwari said Kota was helping children fulfil their dreams by recognising and nurturing their talent. He said such students were becoming an inspiration not only for their families but also for society and the country, adding that ALLEN remained committed to extending every possible support to deserving students. Prabhatâs success has generated excitement in Devkipur and the surrounding villages. Villagers said his achievement, despite limited family resources, had emerged as an inspiration for other students in the region. Relatives, villagers and people from the area have been continuously congratulating the family. Several children from neighbouring villages have also started approaching Prabhat to seek guidance on preparing for competitive examinations and building their careers.
Srinagar, Sep 20: The 5th edition of the Green Valley Model United Nations (GVMUN) concluded at Green Valley Educational Institute (GVEI) after three days of intensive debate, diplomatic deliberations and discussions on pressing global issues. More than 200 delegates from schools across the Valley participated in the three-day event. The conference was jointly inaugurated by advisor to J&K CM Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Hazratbal Salman Ali Sagar. The valedictory ceremony was attended by social activist Roma Wani as the chief guest and was accompanied by Chairman GVEI, Mohammad Yousuf Wani, Director GVEI Prof. (Dr) Fayaz Ahmad Nika, Principal GVEI, Reyaz Ahmad Kathjoo, faculty members, delegates, staff and students. The three-day conference featured six committees, with delegates taking on the roles of diplomats, policymakers and international representatives to deliberate on complex issues including the Gulf Crisis, international shipping and energy security, and global drug policies. The conference showcased not only public speaking and debating skills but also the ability to develop well-researched policy implications and practical diplomatic solutions, with award-winning papers reflecting diverse approaches to some of the most challenging international questions. Discussions on global drug policies moved beyond conventional debates on prohibition and enforcement, with one position paper advocating a dual-pillar approach combining universal public health, harm reduction and treatment with targeted intervention against transnational criminal networks. The other committees namely Historical Crisis Committee, UNWC, UNSC witnessed thought provoking debates. The Director GVEI Prof. (Dr) Fayaz Ahmad Nikka welcomed the guests and talked about the efforts of this institution in providing the best possible education to its students. The Chief Guest, Roma Wani personally visited the various houses during the last session and interacted with the delegates. She enquired from the delegates about how their interactions and debates can bring changes in the real world. "It is important to take some life lessons from these debates and discussions," she said. While addressing the delegates she said such conferences are very important in nurturing our future generation. "I appreciate the intellect, energy and grit of our students. Our future seems to be in secure hands.â She added. She further said that youth has a greater responsibility to discuss, debate and help in creating a drug free society. The highlight of the valedictory ceremony was the felicitation and prize distribution, where outstanding delegates were recognized for their performance across the various committees, with awards acknowledging excellence in research, diplomacy, articulation, negotiation and committee participation. The vote of thanks was proposed by the Principal GVEI Riyaz Ahmad Kathjoo who expressed gratitude to the chief guest, delegates, other dignitaries and also acknowledged the efforts of the GVMUN Core Team, Executive Board, organising committee, faculty coordinators and participating schools, whose collective efforts contributed to the successful conduct of the conference. The students also presented some cultural performances during the event.
Baramulla, Sep 20: A day-long Science outreach programme was organised by the IQAC and UGC & Research committee in collaboration with Science Department of Government Degree College (GDC) Sopore. As pe the handout issued here, the programme was organised under the supervision of Principal GDC Sopore Prof. (Dr.) Syed Muzaffar Ahmad. The event was organised for higher Secondary School Students of Sopore with the objective of strengthening scientific awareness, encouraging curiosity and inquiry among students, and providing participants with meaningful exposure to science through interaction, inspiration and departmental learning activities. The programme combined formal addresses, inspirational talks besides practical and academic departmental visits. It was followed by feedback and the distribution of participation certificates. Around 56 students from Government Boys Higher Secondary School and Government Girls Higher Secondary School Sopore participated in the event. The programme commenced with the introduction of the Science Outreach Programme by moderator Dr. Nowsheen Hameed, Assistant Professor Department of Biotechnology. Dr. Javeed Ahmad Sheikh Coordinator, IQAC delivered the Welcome Address and welcomed the participants and highlighted the objectives of the outreach programme. Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Syed Muzaffar Ahmad, delivered the Presidential Address in which he provided institutional context to the outreach initiative and emphasised the importance of scientific awareness, academic engagement and meaningful learning opportunities for students. He also encouraged the participants to make constructive use of the opportunities provided through the programme. Invited resource persons delivered inspirational talks and shared real-life experiences. This segment was designed to connect scientific learning with practical experiences and to motivate students to develop curiosity, perseverance and an interest in science. Interaction with resource persons provided participants with an opportunity to appreciate the role of scientific knowledge and learning beyond the classroom. The first resource person Zeeshan, a neuroscience researcher at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), shared his academic and research journey with the students. The second resource person, Dr. Adil Majeed Rather, DST INSPIRE Faculty, NIT Srinagar, shared his personal academic journey and experiences in research, inspiring students to pursue their aspirations with determination and perseverance. The third resource person, Dr. Rahila Nazir, a researcher with postdoctoral research experience at reputed institutions in India and the United States delivered an inspiring message to the students about the importance of ambition, perseverance and self-belief. The fourth resource person, Dr. Javeed Rasool, Postdoctoral Research Associate at Boston University, USA emphasised that academic marks alone do not determine success in life.
Srinagar, Sep 20:Â In a significant development, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), Jammu and Kashmir Campus, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening academic, clinical and professional collaboration in the areas of rehabilitation, mental health, behavioural forensic services, research and training. The MoU was formally signed by the Directors of SKIMS and Rashtriya Raksha University, Jammu and Kashmir Campus, on the occasion graced by distinguished dignitaries, including former Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Kashmir and Lifetime Professor Dr. Mehraj Uddin Mir, RRU J&K Campus Assistant Director Dr. Mohammad Akmal Shah, Assistant Professor Dr. Mudasir Bhat and Director Finance SKIMS. Speaking on the occasion Director, SKIMS, said this MoU will strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration in clinical learning, rehabilitation, mental health and research. DirectorRashtriya Raksha University, Jammu and Kashmir Campus, said this collaboration will provide valuable clinical exposure to our students and strengthen joint research and training in behavioural sciences and different areas of forensic services. "The agreement provides a framework for collaboration in clinical and forensic teaching, mental health services, rehabilitation, forensic mental health services, capacity building, joint research, academic publications, internships, faculty exchange and knowledge sharing," the official handout reads. As per the handout, the two institutions will also collaborate on joint research projects, publications, scientific workshops, seminars, symposia, conferences and specialised training programmes on mutually identified areas. "The collaboration will also support the development of integrated approaches to challenges relating to disability besides promoting capacity building and interdisciplinary learning," it reads. The collaboration is expected to provide a structured platform for academic exchange, supervised clinical learning, interdisciplinary research and professional training, while strengthening institutional cooperation between SKIMS and RRU, J&K campus.
New Delhi, Sep 12: Loneliness among the elderly is emerging as a serious but often overlooked concern, doctors have warned. Older adults can feel isolated even while living with their families, and prolonged social disconnection can take a toll on both their mental and physical health, they say. According to Dr Harjit Singh Bhatti, a senior consultant of geriatric medicine at Sitaram Bhartia Hospital, loneliness is not simply about living alone but an emotional state in which a person feels disconnected, neglected or deprived of meaningful relationships. "An elderly person can live with their family and still feel lonely, while someone living alone may remain socially active and well connected. Loneliness, therefore, cannot be assessed simply by looking at whether a person lives alone or with others," said Dr Bhatti. Changing family structures, urbanisation, migration of younger people for education and employment and the growing prevalence of nuclear families have further complicated the problem, he said. Older adults who have lost a spouse, live alone, have disabilities or suffer from chronic illnesses can be particularly vulnerable, while retirement and children moving to other cities or countries may further reduce social interaction, Dr Bhatti said. Dr Avinash Chakrawarty, Professor of Geriatric Medicine at National Centre for Ageing (NCA), Delhi AIIMS, said loneliness should be viewed as a health issue rather than a consequence of ageing. Social connection is an important component of healthy ageing, and when it erodes, it can affect sleep, appetite, physical activity, mood and even treatment adherence in an elderly person, he said. Many seniors gradually withdraw from social activities because of mobility problems, hearing difficulties or a feeling that they are no longer needed, Dr Chakrawarty said. "This can create a cycle in which isolation leads to poorer mental and physical health, which in turn makes the person less willing or able to engage with others. "Families need to recognise subtle changes such as loss of interest in routine activities, reduced communication or spending most of the day alone. Regular conversations, shared meals, outings and involving seniors in family decisions can help restore a sense of belonging and purpose," Dr Chakrawarty said. Dr Anup Singh, Founder Head of the Department of Geriatric Medicine, IMS-BHU, and nodal officer/Chief of the upcoming National Centre of Ageing at BHU, said prolonged loneliness has been linked with several physical and cognitive health concerns. "Persistent stress associated with loneliness may contribute to sleep disturbances, high blood pressure and cardiovascular risk, while reduced physical and social activity can worsen existing chronic conditions," he said. "There is also growing evidence linking social isolation and loneliness with depression, anxiety and cognitive decline. In older adults, therefore, assessing social connectedness should be part of a broader health evaluation," he added. Doctors must ask about who the patient interacts with, how often they participate in activities and whether they feel supported, rather than limiting consultations to medicines and laboratory reports, Dr Singh said. The problem is not restricted to cities, doctors insist. While busy urban lifestyles and limited neighbourhood interaction can leave seniors isolated, migration of younger generations for employment can similarly leave older adults in rural areas without regular companionship, Dr Singh said. Technology can help bridge geographical distances through phone calls, video calls and social media, though, he stated. Dr Bhatti said tackling loneliness does not necessarily require major interventions. "Regular conversations, sharing meals, involving older family members in everyday activities and genuinely listening to them can go a long way. They need to feel that they continue to be an important part of the family," he said. Senior citizen clubs, community centres, volunteering opportunities, cultural programmes and intergenerational activities can also help older adults remain socially engaged. As India's elderly population continues to grow, doctors said addressing loneliness will become increasingly important to ensure that longer life also translates into healthier and more fulfilling ageing. (PTI)
Srinagar, Sep 20: The 5th edition of the Green Valley Model United Nations (GVMUN) concluded at Green Valley Educational Institute (GVEI) after three days of intensive debate, diplomatic deliberations and discussions on pressing global issues. More than 200 delegates from schools across the Valley participated in the three-day event. The conference was jointly inaugurated by advisor to J&K CM Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Hazratbal Salman Ali Sagar. The valedictory ceremony was attended by social activist Roma Wani as the chief guest and was accompanied by Chairman GVEI, Mohammad Yousuf Wani, Director GVEI Prof. (Dr) Fayaz Ahmad Nika, Principal GVEI, Reyaz Ahmad Kathjoo, faculty members, delegates, staff and students. The three-day conference featured six committees, with delegates taking on the roles of diplomats, policymakers and international representatives to deliberate on complex issues including the Gulf Crisis, international shipping and energy security, and global drug policies. The conference showcased not only public speaking and debating skills but also the ability to develop well-researched policy implications and practical diplomatic solutions, with award-winning papers reflecting diverse approaches to some of the most challenging international questions. Discussions on global drug policies moved beyond conventional debates on prohibition and enforcement, with one position paper advocating a dual-pillar approach combining universal public health, harm reduction and treatment with targeted intervention against transnational criminal networks. The other committees namely Historical Crisis Committee, UNWC, UNSC witnessed thought provoking debates. The Director GVEI Prof. (Dr) Fayaz Ahmad Nikka welcomed the guests and talked about the efforts of this institution in providing the best possible education to its students. The Chief Guest, Roma Wani personally visited the various houses during the last session and interacted with the delegates. She enquired from the delegates about how their interactions and debates can bring changes in the real world. "It is important to take some life lessons from these debates and discussions," she said. While addressing the delegates she said such conferences are very important in nurturing our future generation. "I appreciate the intellect, energy and grit of our students. Our future seems to be in secure hands.â She added. She further said that youth has a greater responsibility to discuss, debate and help in creating a drug free society. The highlight of the valedictory ceremony was the felicitation and prize distribution, where outstanding delegates were recognized for their performance across the various committees, with awards acknowledging excellence in research, diplomacy, articulation, negotiation and committee participation. The vote of thanks was proposed by the Principal GVEI Riyaz Ahmad Kathjoo who expressed gratitude to the chief guest, delegates, other dignitaries and also acknowledged the efforts of the GVMUN Core Team, Executive Board, organising committee, faculty coordinators and participating schools, whose collective efforts contributed to the successful conduct of the conference. The students also presented some cultural performances during the event.
Baramulla, Sep 20: A day-long Science outreach programme was organised by the IQAC and UGC & Research committee in collaboration with Science Department of Government Degree College (GDC) Sopore. As pe the handout issued here, the programme was organised under the supervision of Principal GDC Sopore Prof. (Dr.) Syed Muzaffar Ahmad. The event was organised for higher Secondary School Students of Sopore with the objective of strengthening scientific awareness, encouraging curiosity and inquiry among students, and providing participants with meaningful exposure to science through interaction, inspiration and departmental learning activities. The programme combined formal addresses, inspirational talks besides practical and academic departmental visits. It was followed by feedback and the distribution of participation certificates. Around 56 students from Government Boys Higher Secondary School and Government Girls Higher Secondary School Sopore participated in the event. The programme commenced with the introduction of the Science Outreach Programme by moderator Dr. Nowsheen Hameed, Assistant Professor Department of Biotechnology. Dr. Javeed Ahmad Sheikh Coordinator, IQAC delivered the Welcome Address and welcomed the participants and highlighted the objectives of the outreach programme. Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Syed Muzaffar Ahmad, delivered the Presidential Address in which he provided institutional context to the outreach initiative and emphasised the importance of scientific awareness, academic engagement and meaningful learning opportunities for students. He also encouraged the participants to make constructive use of the opportunities provided through the programme. Invited resource persons delivered inspirational talks and shared real-life experiences. This segment was designed to connect scientific learning with practical experiences and to motivate students to develop curiosity, perseverance and an interest in science. Interaction with resource persons provided participants with an opportunity to appreciate the role of scientific knowledge and learning beyond the classroom. The first resource person Zeeshan, a neuroscience researcher at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), shared his academic and research journey with the students. The second resource person, Dr. Adil Majeed Rather, DST INSPIRE Faculty, NIT Srinagar, shared his personal academic journey and experiences in research, inspiring students to pursue their aspirations with determination and perseverance. The third resource person, Dr. Rahila Nazir, a researcher with postdoctoral research experience at reputed institutions in India and the United States delivered an inspiring message to the students about the importance of ambition, perseverance and self-belief. The fourth resource person, Dr. Javeed Rasool, Postdoctoral Research Associate at Boston University, USA emphasised that academic marks alone do not determine success in life.
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, Sep 5: The Voluntary Medicare Society (VMS), Bemina, Srinagar, observed World Spinal Cord Injury Day 2026 by organising an awareness rally and an auditorium programme. During the event, a wheelchair distribution camp was also held with a focus on spinal cord injury prevention, rehabilitation, inclusion and empowerment. The programme also marked the beginning of Spinal Week, being observed by VMS from September 5 to 12, 2026, under the theme âFrom Awareness to Action: Ten Years Advancing SCI Prevention.â The dayâs programme commenced with the assembly of participants for the awareness rally at VMS, Bemina and flag-off of the awareness rally by Prof. Dr. Aijaz Ahmad Rather HoD department of General SKIMS Medical College Bemina and Dr. Farooq A Kaloo, secretary Voluntary Medicare Society. The rally, conducted from VMS, Bemina, towards the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), Bemina, raised awareness about the prevention of spinal cord injuries and promoted the inclusion, dignity and rights of persons living with spinal cord injuries. Participants carried the message of âPrevention, Inclusion, Empowermentâ and encouraged the community to adopt measures to prevent spinal injuries. The rally was welcomed by the Director Health services kashmir and praised the efforts of Voluntary Medicare Society for rehabilitation of Spinal Cord Injury Patients. The auditorium programme commenced with the welcome address was delivered by the President, VMS Prof. Dr. Mir Mohammad Maqbool followed by an address by the Vice President, VMS Prof. Masooda Yasin Dr. M. Ayoub Bhat delivered a presentation on the holistic rehabilitation programme for persons with spinal cord injuries at VMS, highlighting the importance of comprehensive rehabilitation and coordinated support for persons with spinal cord injuries. The programme also included certificate distribution to visually impaired students who have completed their 3 month computer fundamental course, followed by a wheelchair distribution programme for persons with spinal cord injuries and other beneficiaries requiring mobility support. The initiative aimed at enhancing mobility, independence and participation of persons with disabilities in the community. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the Secretary, VMS, Dr. Farooq A Kaloo who thanked all the dignitaries , stakeholders participants and event organizers for making this initiative successful. VMS will continue its Spinal Week observance from September 5 to 12, with a series of activities aimed at strengthening awareness about spinal cord injury prevention, rehabilitation, accessibility, inclusion and the rights and dignity of persons living with spinal cord injuries.
Srinagar, Sept 1: Qul Fruits conducted its fourth and fifth training sessions for field staff on Tuesday at Qulgah, Newa, bringing together 50 field staff members for focused learning on digital advisory, farmer communication, in-season crop management, pest and disease control, and pre-harvest quality. The training programme was aimed at strengthening the field teamâs ability to provide farmers with timely, informed and practical support. As field staff work directly with farmers and their orchards, continuous capacity building is essential to ensure that technical knowledge is effectively translated into practical action at the ground level. Qul Fruits is a technology-driven horticulture platform working to advance modern apple cultivation in Jammu & Kashmir. The company works closely with farmers through its field network, with a focus on high-density apple plantations, scientific orchard management, technical advisory and farmer support. Training session four, led by Jasir Balkhi, Web Developer at Qul Fruits, focused on Digital Advisory, Record Keeping, Farmer Communication and Field Troubleshooting. The session highlighted the growing role of digital tools and systematic record keeping in modern field operations. Effective documentation and communication can help field staff better understand farmer concerns, maintain accurate field-level information and support faster and more informed troubleshooting. âDigital advisory is becoming an increasingly important part of modern field operations. When information is properly recorded and communicated, it becomes easier for field teams to understand issues and support farmers effectively,â said Jasir Balkhi. Training Session 5, led by Dr. Rabia, Pathologist at Qul Fruits, focused on In-Season Crop Management, Canopy and Fruit Management, Pest & Disease Control, and Pre-Harvest quality. The session was particularly relevant to the current crop cycle, as management practices during the growing season have a direct bearing on plant health, fruit development and final fruit quality. Strengthening the technical understanding of field staff enables them to identify potential issues more effectively and guide farmers on appropriate orchard management practices. "Healthy crops and quality fruit require attention throughout the season. Strengthening the technical knowledge of our field staff helps ensure that important aspects of crop, pest and disease management receive the right attention at the field level,â said Dr. Rabia. With 50 field staff participating, the two sessions marked another step in Qul Fruitsâ ongoing efforts to strengthen its field-level capabilities and ensure that farmers have access to knowledgeable, responsive and timely support. The training brought together digital and technical learning, reflecting the growing importance of combining technology with scientific orchard management in modern horticulture. Qul Fruits has been working with farmers across the region to promote improved orchard practices and strengthen productivity and fruit quality through technology, technical expertise and field-level engagement. Through its field teams and continuous training initiatives, Qul Fruits aims to bridge the gap between technical knowledge and its practical application at the orchard level, enabling farmers to access timely guidance and informed support throughout the crop cycle.
Baramulla, Aug 12: In a major community outreach initiative, the Army organised a programme for the Gujjar-Bakarwal community at Bandibala (Sultanpur Kandi) in Baramulla, focusing on education, healthcare, skill development and access to government welfare schemes. The programme was conducted by 52 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion under the aegis of Headquarters 10 Sector Rashtriya Rifles/Counter Insurgency Force (Kilo), with 143 people from Bandibala and adjoining areas participating. A key highlight of the outreach was the distribution of solar lights among Gujjar-Bakarwal families residing in dhoks. The initiative is aimed at helping children continue their studies despite limited access to electricity in the remote seasonal settlements. The Army also organised a free medical camp and conducted awareness sessions on various government welfare schemes and benefits, besides interacting with local youth on skill development and career opportunities. During interactions with elders and community leaders, local issues were discussed with the objective of identifying concerns faced by the community and strengthening engagement between civilians and security forces. The outreach also laid emphasis on encouraging children to pursue education and motivating youth to explore avenues for employment, skill development and career advancement. The Army said the initiative was part of its continuing efforts towards community welfare and inclusive development, asserting that local communities have an important role in societal and nation-building. The programme provided an opportunity for direct interaction between residents and Army personnel and was aimed at further strengthening civil-military relations in the area. The Army said that beyond its primary responsibility of safeguarding the nation's borders, it continues to contribute to nation-building through such outreach initiatives, conveying the message of âAman and Awam.â
Srinagar, Aug 1: After years of administrative delays and repeated changes in the executing agency, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has finally taken over the construction of Jammu and Kashmir's first modern mechanised sheep and goat abattoir at Allochi Bagh, paving the way for the long-pending project to be completed within the next two years. SMC Commissioner, Fazlul Haseeb said that the civic body has floated the project on Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode for the establishment of the "Modern Mechanized Sheep & Goat Abattoir in Srinagar City", a facility designed to process 5,000 sheep and goats daily, making it one of the largest such facilities in the Jammu and Kashmir. Haseeb said that the project aims to modernise Srinagar's meat processing infrastructure by replacing conventional slaughtering practices with a hygienic, scientific and environmentally sustainable system conforming to national standards and international best practices. The project has witnessed multiple setbacks since its inception. Initially, its execution was entrusted to the Jammu and Kashmir Projects Construction Corporation (JKPCC), which had even begun preliminary civil works several years ago. In March 2022, JKPCC had reported that the foundation work for the slaughter hall was in progress and was directed to expedite execution. However, following the financial closure and cessation of JKPCC's operations in August 2023, the project came to a standstill. Although its execution was later transferred to the R&B, officials said the project witnessed negligible physical progress. The prolonged delay had also attracted public attention. Earlier reports highlighted that the proposed modern abattoir had remained incomplete for years despite repeated assurances, leaving Srinagar without a modern slaughtering facility. Work on the project also came under judicial monitoring in a Public Interest Litigation relating to slaughterhouses in Jammu and Kashmir. Following a comprehensive review, SMC decided to execute the project directly through its own Works Division under the EPC mode, ensuring single-point responsibility for design, procurement, construction, installation, testing and commissioning. SMC said a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) was subsequently prepared after incorporating modern technologies and additional infrastructure required to meet contemporary standards of food safety, environmental protection and operational efficiency. The Government accorded administrative approval to the revised project in March 2025. The proposed facility will include fully mechanised slaughtering and meat processing lines, scientifically designed lairage areas, mechanised slaughter halls, carcass dressing units, chilling and cold storage facilities, by-product processing units and supporting utility infrastructure. One of the key features of the project will be an advanced bio-digestion system integrated with a modern Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), enabling scientific treatment of slaughterhouse waste and recycling of treated wastewater for non-potable uses within the premises. Officials said the system has been designed to minimise environmental pollution, promote water conservation and eliminate unhygienic disposal practices. SMC said the project would significantly improve public health and sanitation while strengthening the livestock sector by providing a modern, organised processing system for farmers, meat traders and consumers. Besides creating direct and indirect employment during construction and operation, the facility is expected to introduce internationally accepted standards in slaughterhouse management, food safety, waste disposal and hygiene, setting a benchmark for future meat processing infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir. According to SMC, the project is expected to be completed within two years, after which the mechanised abattoir will be commissioned for public use. (KDC)
New Delhi, May 12: A massive protest organised by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) broke out near the Shastri Bhawan on Tuesday, against the alleged paper leak in NEET-UG this year. The exam was held on May 3, following which allegations of paper leak surfaced, triggering investigations by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) and central agencies. Earlier, the National Testing Agency (NTA) announced the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026, and said the examination will be re-conducted on dates to be notified separately. In a statement, the NTA said the decision was taken with the approval of the Government of India in the interest of maintaining transparency and preserving trust in the national examination system.
