Srinagar Sept 19: The University of Kashmir (KU), through the Centre for Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship (CIIE), Institute of Technology (IoT), Zakura Campus, concluded the first phase of a five-day Skill Development Programme on âDrone Technology â Designing & Hands-on Workshopâ, organised from September 14â18 at the e-Yantra Embedded Systems & Robotics Lab. The programme provided participants practical exposure to various aspects of drone technology, including drone components and anatomy, aerodynamics, flight controllers, quadcopter assembly, simulation, mission planning, CAD-based design, Python programming, flight operations and applications in agriculture. A total of 20 participants, selected from over 200 registrations from different educational institutions, participated in the first phase, combining conceptual learning with hands-on experimentation and technology-oriented skill development. Vice-Chancellor, KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said emerging technologies such as drones are creating new avenues for innovation, research and entrepreneurship, while practical learning enables students to apply technology to real-world challenges. âBy combining conceptual understanding with hands-on learning, we can empower our students to develop technology-based solutions to real-world challenges,â she said. Dean Academic Affairs, KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, appreciated the structured approach of the programme, which enabled participants to progress from fundamentals to assembly, simulation, programming and flight operations. Registrar, KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, emphasised the importance of practical and interdisciplinary training in contemporary higher education, noting that drone technology integrates areas such as electronics, programming, engineering, design and automation and offers diverse real-world applications. Dean and Director, IoT, Zakura Campus KU, Prof. M. Tariq Banday, highlighted the importance of providing learners opportunities to experiment, build and test technology-based solutions. He added that over 200 participants have registered for the Drone Technology and allied workshops at the Lab. Workshop coordinators Dr. Bilal Ahmad Malik and Dr. Mir Nazish, and Rutba Majeed, DGCA-certified Drone Pilot and Instructor, were also present on the occasion. The workshop is part of KUâs continuing skill-development and capacity-building initiatives aimed at providing practical exposure to emerging technologies and developing industry-relevant skills. The e-Yantra Embedded Systems & Robotics Lab, established at IoT Zakura Campus with support from RUSA 2.0, provides infrastructure for hands-on learning and experimentation in embedded systems, robotics and related technological domains.
Suhail Rather Bandipora, Sept 19: In a classroom where discarded material could have ended up as waste, students of Government Boys Middle School (BMS) Kaloosa have created something remarkably different a collection of innovative and useful exhibits under the schoolâs âTrash to Treasureâ project. What makes the initiative particularly striking is the pace at which it has taken shape. In less than 15 days, the classroom has been transformed into a creative space filled with items made from discarded materials, reflecting the imagination and efforts of the students and teachers. The initiative aims to inculcate a culture of recycling, cleanliness and responsible waste management among students while giving them an opportunity to learn through practical activities rather than textbooks alone. The project has received appreciation from the Chief Education Officer (CEO) Bandipora and the concerned Zonal Education Officer, who lauded the school for encouraging creativity and environmental awareness among students. Head of Institution Mushtaq Ahmad Mir attributed the initiative largely to the dedicated efforts of teacher Rehana Mushtaq, saying her commitment had played an important role in taking the project forward. âWhatever has been created here is the result of the efforts of Rehana Mushtaq, a teacher of our school, who is working her best for this noble cause,â Mir said. The exhibits demonstrate how materials generally considered useless can be reused creatively, giving students a practical understanding of sustainability and waste management. Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib also appreciated the schoolâs efforts, saying, âThis school has the vision as well as potential to set an amazing example in Swachhata for other schools of Bandipora district to follow.â The initiative has turned an ordinary classroom into a space of experimentation and learning, offering a simple message, what is discarded as waste can become a source of creativity when young minds are given the opportunity to innovate. (KNS)
New Delhi, Sep 19: Metabolic surgery could help achieve remission of type-2 diabetes in a selected few patients, and better blood sugar control in many when the disease remains uncontrolled despite appropriate medical treatment, a senior AIIMS doctor said. Dr Manjunath Maruti, professor in the Department of Surgery said the procedure should not be viewed as a treatment for every person with diabetes, but as one of the evidence-based options for patients whose blood sugar remains uncontrolled despite medicines and lifestyle changes. "For some patients medication and lifestyle modification will be sufficient. For others, despite appropriate medical therapy, diabetes would remain uncontrolled. In these patients, metabolic surgery may provide an opportunity to achieve remission, and in some, much better glycaemic control" Dr Manjunath said. According to the protocol followed by his unit, metabolic surgery may be considered when a patient's HbA1c, a measure of average blood sugar, remains above 7.5 per cent despite treatment with more than three oral anti-diabetic medicines, with or without a GLP-1 receptor agonist or insulin. The patient should also have been living with type-2 diabetes for at least two years. Surgery may also be considered when a patient has been advised or started on insulin because medicines are no longer sufficient to control blood sugar, he said. Another important indication is the presence of early diabetes-related organ damage, irrespective of the HbA1c level, Dr Manjunath said. This could include protein or albumin in the urine, suggesting early kidney damage; pain in the legs while walking due to reduced blood flow; heart related chest pain or a history of angioplasty or stent placement indicating heart disease; a transient ischemic attack or stroke; or reduced vision caused by diabetic eye disease. "In simple terms, uncontrolled diabetes means diabetes that remains inadequately controlled despite more than three medicines, or when insulin was started, or when diabetes has already started causing damage to important organs," he said. Dr Manjunath said the upfront cost of metabolic surgery need to be weighed against the substantial long-term health and economic burden of uncontrolled diabetes. Over time, diabetes can cause complications such as kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplantation, heart disease requiring procedures or bypass surgery, diabetic retinopathy requiring laser treatment, peripheral vascular disease that may require surgery or, in severe cases, amputation, and stroke requiring prolonged hospitalisation. "No treatment can guarantee that these complications will never occur. But sustained improvement in metabolic health following metabolic surgery has the potential to reduce the long-term burden of diabetes and its complications," he said. The decision, he said, should therefore take into account not only the immediate cost and risks of surgery but also the possible long-term consequences of living with uncontrolled diabetes. Dr Manjunath stressed that prevention should remain the starting point in tackling diabetes, with healthier food choices, regular physical activity, adequate sleep and early identification of metabolic disease. Patients who develop diabetes should have timely access to effective medical treatment, while those whose disease remains uncontrolled despite appropriate therapy should be assessed by a multidisciplinary diabetes and metabolic surgery team, he said. For appropriately selected patients, metabolic surgery can form part of the modern treatment approach, provided it is carried out by an experienced team at a dedicated centre with structured follow-up, he added. Dr Manjunath said his unit's experience of treating 67 patients with uncontrolled type-2 diabetes, including 18 patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 23-35 kg/m2 and 15-25 years of diabetes, highlights the potential role of metabolic surgery in such patients. However, long-term prospective follow-up would be important to determine how durable diabetes remission and metabolic improvements are after surgery, he said. "Do not wait for diabetes to damage the organs before you intensify treatment," Dr Manjunath said. "Metabolic surgery is not for everyone but for the right patient, at the right time, it can be transformative." (PTI)
New Delhi, Sep 19: A technology-enabled remote health monitoring system is helping patients recovering after being discharged from hospital, as well as elderly people and those experiencing sudden health problems, stay under continuous medical supervision at home. When 63-year-old Charanjit Kaur, a resident of Hari Nagar in Delhi, suddenly fainted and was rushed to hospital, doctors found that she had a 90 per cent blockage in her heart. Cardiovascular surgeon Dr Rahul Chandola at PSRI Hospital performed bypass surgery on her. A week later, when she was ready to be discharged, her son Maninder Singh, who works in the private sector, became worried. With two young children at home, he wondered how his wife would be able to take care of his mother in the same way she was being cared for in the hospital. That was when Singh came to know about iLive Connect, a technology designed to provide patients with continuous health monitoring at home, similar to the monitoring they receive in a hospital. He said the system helped his mother receive the kind of monitoring at home that doctors and hospital staff would normally provide. "If you have to rush to the hospital, the cost of travel, consultation and other expenses can come to around Rs 5,000 for a single visit. With this device, that kind of monitoring was available for around Rs 1,000. So, I would definitely call it value for money," Singh said. The technology uses a patch placed on the heart area along with a wristband to continuously capture various health parameters. The information is transmitted to doctors sitting at a remote command centre. If there is any significant change in a patient's health, the medical team can alert the patient and provide guidance on precautions or medication. Dr Sameer Maheshwari, cardiologist, iLiveConnect, said the medical-grade biosensor devices continuously monitor multiple health parameters, including ECG, heart rate, SpO2, heart rate variability, temperature, activity levels and sleep. "This 24x7 vitals monitoring and timely clinical care help prevent medical emergencies and reduce hospitalisations," he said. According to Dr Maheshwari, the system was developed to address the gap in continuous medical supervision once a patient leaves the hospital. Many serious medical events may occur after patients return home, when they are no longer under continuous medical monitoring, he said. He said the period immediately after discharge is particularly important because patients need closer monitoring and there is always a possibility of their condition suddenly worsening. Talking about his experience, Singh said, "Through the small iLive Connect device, doctors continuously monitored his mother's health parameters. Calls from the medical team every morning and evening, along with immediate advice whenever any health parameter showed an abnormality, helped make her recovery smoother." This experience is not limited to one patient. For 53-year-old government employee Rakesh Bhardwaj, a resident of Naraina Vihar in Delhi, the experience was similar. A few months ago, his blood pressure suddenly shot up to 200/130 accompanied by a severe headache that would not subside. He then used the iLive Connect device until his blood pressure stabilised. Bhardwaj said the medical team continuously monitored his health through the device and called him every day to check on his condition. Gradually, his problems were brought under control. "In this age of technology, if a doctor's support can come to you while you are sitting at home, that is a major development. Especially when even a small health concern can trouble you and you need medical advice. iLive Connect gives you the feeling and reassurance that a doctor is always there with you," he said. iLive Connect is designed to support people who experience sudden health problems, patients discharged from hospitals who need close monitoring for some time, as well as elderly people at home who may require regular observation. The support is not limited to responding to an emergency. Patients also receive calls from doctors in the morning and evening to check whether everything is going well. (PTI)
Srinagar Sept 19: The University of Kashmir (KU), through the Centre for Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship (CIIE), Institute of Technology (IoT), Zakura Campus, concluded the first phase of a five-day Skill Development Programme on âDrone Technology â Designing & Hands-on Workshopâ, organised from September 14â18 at the e-Yantra Embedded Systems & Robotics Lab. The programme provided participants practical exposure to various aspects of drone technology, including drone components and anatomy, aerodynamics, flight controllers, quadcopter assembly, simulation, mission planning, CAD-based design, Python programming, flight operations and applications in agriculture. A total of 20 participants, selected from over 200 registrations from different educational institutions, participated in the first phase, combining conceptual learning with hands-on experimentation and technology-oriented skill development. Vice-Chancellor, KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said emerging technologies such as drones are creating new avenues for innovation, research and entrepreneurship, while practical learning enables students to apply technology to real-world challenges. âBy combining conceptual understanding with hands-on learning, we can empower our students to develop technology-based solutions to real-world challenges,â she said. Dean Academic Affairs, KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, appreciated the structured approach of the programme, which enabled participants to progress from fundamentals to assembly, simulation, programming and flight operations. Registrar, KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, emphasised the importance of practical and interdisciplinary training in contemporary higher education, noting that drone technology integrates areas such as electronics, programming, engineering, design and automation and offers diverse real-world applications. Dean and Director, IoT, Zakura Campus KU, Prof. M. Tariq Banday, highlighted the importance of providing learners opportunities to experiment, build and test technology-based solutions. He added that over 200 participants have registered for the Drone Technology and allied workshops at the Lab. Workshop coordinators Dr. Bilal Ahmad Malik and Dr. Mir Nazish, and Rutba Majeed, DGCA-certified Drone Pilot and Instructor, were also present on the occasion. The workshop is part of KUâs continuing skill-development and capacity-building initiatives aimed at providing practical exposure to emerging technologies and developing industry-relevant skills. The e-Yantra Embedded Systems & Robotics Lab, established at IoT Zakura Campus with support from RUSA 2.0, provides infrastructure for hands-on learning and experimentation in embedded systems, robotics and related technological domains.
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)
New Delhi, Sep 19: A technology-enabled remote health monitoring system is helping patients recovering after being discharged from hospital, as well as elderly people and those experiencing sudden health problems, stay under continuous medical supervision at home. When 63-year-old Charanjit Kaur, a resident of Hari Nagar in Delhi, suddenly fainted and was rushed to hospital, doctors found that she had a 90 per cent blockage in her heart. Cardiovascular surgeon Dr Rahul Chandola at PSRI Hospital performed bypass surgery on her. A week later, when she was ready to be discharged, her son Maninder Singh, who works in the private sector, became worried. With two young children at home, he wondered how his wife would be able to take care of his mother in the same way she was being cared for in the hospital. That was when Singh came to know about iLive Connect, a technology designed to provide patients with continuous health monitoring at home, similar to the monitoring they receive in a hospital. He said the system helped his mother receive the kind of monitoring at home that doctors and hospital staff would normally provide. "If you have to rush to the hospital, the cost of travel, consultation and other expenses can come to around Rs 5,000 for a single visit. With this device, that kind of monitoring was available for around Rs 1,000. So, I would definitely call it value for money," Singh said. The technology uses a patch placed on the heart area along with a wristband to continuously capture various health parameters. The information is transmitted to doctors sitting at a remote command centre. If there is any significant change in a patient's health, the medical team can alert the patient and provide guidance on precautions or medication. Dr Sameer Maheshwari, cardiologist, iLiveConnect, said the medical-grade biosensor devices continuously monitor multiple health parameters, including ECG, heart rate, SpO2, heart rate variability, temperature, activity levels and sleep. "This 24x7 vitals monitoring and timely clinical care help prevent medical emergencies and reduce hospitalisations," he said. According to Dr Maheshwari, the system was developed to address the gap in continuous medical supervision once a patient leaves the hospital. Many serious medical events may occur after patients return home, when they are no longer under continuous medical monitoring, he said. He said the period immediately after discharge is particularly important because patients need closer monitoring and there is always a possibility of their condition suddenly worsening. Talking about his experience, Singh said, "Through the small iLive Connect device, doctors continuously monitored his mother's health parameters. Calls from the medical team every morning and evening, along with immediate advice whenever any health parameter showed an abnormality, helped make her recovery smoother." This experience is not limited to one patient. For 53-year-old government employee Rakesh Bhardwaj, a resident of Naraina Vihar in Delhi, the experience was similar. A few months ago, his blood pressure suddenly shot up to 200/130 accompanied by a severe headache that would not subside. He then used the iLive Connect device until his blood pressure stabilised. Bhardwaj said the medical team continuously monitored his health through the device and called him every day to check on his condition. Gradually, his problems were brought under control. "In this age of technology, if a doctor's support can come to you while you are sitting at home, that is a major development. Especially when even a small health concern can trouble you and you need medical advice. iLive Connect gives you the feeling and reassurance that a doctor is always there with you," he said. iLive Connect is designed to support people who experience sudden health problems, patients discharged from hospitals who need close monitoring for some time, as well as elderly people at home who may require regular observation. The support is not limited to responding to an emergency. Patients also receive calls from doctors in the morning and evening to check whether everything is going well. (PTI)
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, 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.
