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JKSC Secretary attends district Srinagar Rollball Championship at Gindun Sports Complex, inspects gymnastics facilities

Srinagar, Nov 01: Secretary Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, Tazayun Mukhtar visited Gindun Sports Complex, Rajbagh, Srinagar, where she attended a two-day District Srinagar Rollball Championship and inspected the ongoing development of the gymnastics centre. She also inspected other sports facilities during her visit. The District Srinagar Rollball Championship witnessed the participation of around 100 athletes, providing them an opportunity to enhance their skills, interact with fellow players and gain valuable exposure through organised sporting activities. During the visit, the Secretary J&K Sports Council interacted with the participating athletes and coaches, taking feedback on the camp and encouraging the players to pursue sports with dedication and discipline. The athletes also presented a demonstration of their skills through various sporting activities and matches, showcasing their talent and enthusiasm for the game. The two-day camp concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, where the Secretary felicitated the participants and appreciated their efforts and performances. Later, Secretary J&K Sports Council visited the gymnastics hall at the complex, where she interacted with athletes and reviewed the facilities being developed for the promotion of gymnastics in Jammu and Kashmir. The gymnastics centre is being established by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council as a state-of-the-art facility, equipped with modern infrastructure and equipment to provide athletes with a conducive environment for training and skill development. During the interaction, the Secretary emphasised the Council's commitment to promoting gymnastics on a wider scale and creating opportunities for young athletes to excel at the national and international levels. She said the development of quality sports infrastructure and the availability of modern training facilities were essential for nurturing sporting talent and encouraging greater participation in sports. The visit was part of the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council's continued efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure, promote different sporting disciplines and provide athletes with better opportunities to develop their skills and achieve excellence.

15 hours Ago
JKSC calls stakeholders’ meeting on JKFA executive committee elections

Srinagar, Nov 01: The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council has convened a consultative meeting with representatives of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and stakeholders of the Jammu and Kashmir Football Association (JKFA) on November 2 in Srinagar to deliberate on the proposed executive committee elections and ensure a transparent electoral process. All esteemed stakeholders of the Jammu & Kashmir Football Association (JKFA) and affiliated units of JKFA are hereby informed that a high-level consultative meeting is scheduled to be held with the visiting representatives of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), on Monday, 2nd November 2026 at Time: 03:30 PM in Conference Hall, TRC Srinagar.  The deliberations shall focus on critical governance matters to ensure fair and robust electoral process, keeping the larger interest and long-term development of football in Jammu & Kashmir paramount, ensuring genuine district representation, eligibility of voting members, and formulating the clear procedure for transparent electoral execution under independent supervision.  Your active participation, constructive insights and valuable suggestions are earnestly solicited in the collective interest to strengthen and foster the collective growth of football in Jammu & Kashmir.  All stakeholders are requested to kindly make it convenient to attend the deliberation on scheduled date and time. The stakeholders who are unable to attend the meeting physically may participate through virtual mode. The meeting link shall be shared separately. To obtain the link, kindly email on jkstatesportscouncil@gmail.com by or before 02.11.2026 (10:00 AM).

15 hours Ago
Dr GoodDay luxCare studio opens sixth outlet in Kashmir

Budgam, Oct 30: Dr GoodDay LuxCare Studio, a homegrown textile-care venture founded by medical professional-turned-entrepreneur Dr Salma Nabi, on Friday inaugurated its sixth outlet at Agrikalan Magam in Budgam district, marking another milestone in its expansion across Kashmir. The outlet was inaugurated by noted Kashmiri writer Adfar Ghulam Nabi and Ghulam Din Khan in the presence of guests and well-wishers. Founded in 2025, the venture aims to introduce professional laundry, dry-cleaning and specialised textile-care services, with particular emphasis on preserving Kashmir's traditional and delicate fabrics. Dr Salma Nabi, an MBBS-qualified medical professional who transitioned into entrepreneurship, spent nearly two years researching modern textile-care techniques, including dry cleaning, wet cleaning, leather treatment, carpet cleaning and environmentally conscious cleaning methods. As part of her research, she visited textile-care centres in Pune, Mumbai, Chennai and Delhi to study modern machinery, industry practices and business models. The company began commercial operations with its first outlet at Chanapora in August 2025. However, legal and personal challenges led to its closure shortly afterwards. Dr Nabi resumed operations in November 2025 and gradually rebuilt the business, expanding it to six outlets across Kashmir. A major focus of the venture is specialised cleaning and maintenance of traditional Kashmiri textiles, including Pashmina shawls, Sozni embroidery, Tilla work, Aari embroidery, Crewel work, Namda, Gabba and handwoven carpets. The company said it follows fabric-specific cleaning methods to help preserve the texture, colour, finish and quality of delicate garments and intricate embroidery. “I wanted to address a real gap in Kashmir by combining textile science, modern technology and our traditional knowledge of fabrics. Our Pashmina, Sozni, Tilla, Namda and handwoven carpets are part of our identity. They deserve specialised care,” Dr Nabi said. The studio offers professional dry cleaning, wet cleaning, premium laundry, bridal-wear cleaning, leather bag and shoe cleaning, carpet and rug cleaning, sofa and upholstery cleaning, curtain, blanket and quilt cleaning, besides steam ironing and on-site ironing services for weddings and other events. Operating under the philosophy, “No to Bleach. No to Petrol. Yes to Science-Led Textile Care,” the company said it focuses on modern cleaning techniques while reducing reliance on harsh chemicals wherever appropriate. Beyond commercial expansion, the venture aims to generate local employment, promote professional skill development and encourage greater participation of women in the organised service sector. Dr Nabi said the objective was to build a sustainable Kashmiri brand that combined modern technology with an understanding of the region's traditional craftsmanship and textile heritage. With its latest outlet at Magam, Dr GoodDay LuxCare Studio plans to further expand its services across the Valley while promoting specialised textile care and creating employment opportunities.

2 days Ago
Asiya Iqbal congratulates Shameema Firdous on assuming charge as minister

Srinagar, Oct 29: President of the Jammu and Kashmir Employees Social Welfare Association (JKESWA) Asiya Iqbal, Social Worker and Sports Promoter, Thursday extended her heartfelt congratulations to Shameema Firdous on assuming charge as the Minister for Education Jammu and Kashmir. Asiya Iqbal expressed hope that under her leadership, the education sector will witness positive changes, with a special focus on improving the quality of education, addressing the genuine concerns of teachers, strengthening educational institutions, and promoting the welfare of the teaching community. She also expressed hope that the new minister will take constructive steps towards resolving the long-pending issues of teachers and ensuring a better educational environment for students across Jammu and Kashmir. Asiya Iqbal wished Shameema Firdous success in her new responsibilities and hoped that her tenure will bring meaningful progress and positive reforms to the education sector.

3 days Ago
JKSC Secretary attends district Srinagar Rollball Championship at Gindun Sports Complex, inspects gymnastics facilities
Sports
JKSC Secretary attends district Srinagar Rollball Championship at Gindun Sports Complex, inspects gymnastics facilities

Srinagar, Nov 01: Secretary Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, Tazayun Mukhtar visited Gindun Sports Complex, Rajbagh, Srinagar, where she attended a two-day District Srinagar Rollball Championship and inspected the ongoing development of the gymnastics centre. She also inspected other sports facilities during her visit. The District Srinagar Rollball Championship witnessed the participation of around 100 athletes, providing them an opportunity to enhance their skills, interact with fellow players and gain valuable exposure through organised sporting activities. During the visit, the Secretary J&K Sports Council interacted with the participating athletes and coaches, taking feedback on the camp and encouraging the players to pursue sports with dedication and discipline. The athletes also presented a demonstration of their skills through various sporting activities and matches, showcasing their talent and enthusiasm for the game. The two-day camp concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, where the Secretary felicitated the participants and appreciated their efforts and performances. Later, Secretary J&K Sports Council visited the gymnastics hall at the complex, where she interacted with athletes and reviewed the facilities being developed for the promotion of gymnastics in Jammu and Kashmir. The gymnastics centre is being established by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council as a state-of-the-art facility, equipped with modern infrastructure and equipment to provide athletes with a conducive environment for training and skill development. During the interaction, the Secretary emphasised the Council's commitment to promoting gymnastics on a wider scale and creating opportunities for young athletes to excel at the national and international levels. She said the development of quality sports infrastructure and the availability of modern training facilities were essential for nurturing sporting talent and encouraging greater participation in sports. The visit was part of the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council's continued efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure, promote different sporting disciplines and provide athletes with better opportunities to develop their skills and achieve excellence.

KS news desk November 1, 2026 0
Sonamarg to get new tourism infrastructure, winter sports facilities: CM Omar
Sonamarg to get new tourism infrastructure, winter sports facilities: CM Omar

Ganderbal, Oct 15: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the government was preparing a project to strengthen tourism infrastructure in Sonamarg and introduce adventure and winter sports activities to attract visitors throughout the year. During his visit to Ganderbal, the Chief Minister said the opening of the Z-Morh tunnel had changed Sonamarg's tourism prospects by making the destination accessible during winter, creating opportunities for year-round tourism. “Earlier, Sonamarg would remain closed during winters and people could not reach there. There was little scope for developing winter tourism infrastructure. Now that the tunnel has been built and Sonamarg is accessible throughout the year, we are preparing a project for its development,” he said. CM Omar said the government was looking at introducing rafting during summer and skiing and skating during winter to make Sonamarg a major destination for adventure tourism. He said efforts would be made in coordination with local MLA Mehar Ali to develop new tourist attractions and improve facilities for visitors. Referring to the proposed development of Tragbal and Mohanmarg as tourist destinations, the Chief Minister said the projects had earlier received approval and funds had also been released. However, he said the projects could not move forward because of delays in obtaining necessary clearances and were subsequently cancelled. “Sometimes we face difficulties in getting forest, environmental and wildlife clearances. But we will follow the required procedures and work towards developing new tourist destinations,” he said. The Chief Minister also spoke about development works in Ganderbal, saying projects worth nearly Rs 60 crore had been inaugurated or taken up, including a major bridge across the Jhelum costing around Rs 40 crore. He said work on the bridge was progressing and the government was targeting completion by December next year. Omar said road projects, a new school building and infrastructure at the fruit and vegetable market had also been taken up. He said traders at the fruit market had raised demands for expansion and construction of a grade separator, which would be discussed with the National Highways Authority of India. On concerns over deaths in the power canal in Ganderbal, Omar said the government would approach the Power Development Corporation to seek funds for fencing along the canal. He also acknowledged traffic congestion and other infrastructure problems in the district, saying development needs and environmental protection would have to be balanced. The Chief Minister said the government remained committed to addressing public concerns and carrying forward development projects across Ganderbal. (KNS)

GVMUN-2026 concludes at GVEI with felicitation of outstanding delegates
GVMUN-2026 concludes at GVEI with felicitation of outstanding delegates

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.” 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.

Science outreach programme held at GDC Sopore

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.

JK Congress protests 'anti-poor' LPG price hike

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)

'Support your children through setback, they will bounce back stronger'

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: “Are we preparing our students to be strong enough to cope with the failure?”

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JKSC calls stakeholders’ meeting on JKFA executive committee elections
JKSC calls stakeholders’ meeting on JKFA executive committee elections
KS news desk November 1, 2026 0

Srinagar, Nov 01: The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council has convened a consultative meeting with representatives of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and stakeholders of the Jammu and Kashmir Football Association (JKFA) on November 2 in Srinagar to deliberate on the proposed executive committee elections and ensure a transparent electoral process. All esteemed stakeholders of the Jammu & Kashmir Football Association (JKFA) and affiliated units of JKFA are hereby informed that a high-level consultative meeting is scheduled to be held with the visiting representatives of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), on Monday, 2nd November 2026 at Time: 03:30 PM in Conference Hall, TRC Srinagar.  The deliberations shall focus on critical governance matters to ensure fair and robust electoral process, keeping the larger interest and long-term development of football in Jammu & Kashmir paramount, ensuring genuine district representation, eligibility of voting members, and formulating the clear procedure for transparent electoral execution under independent supervision.  Your active participation, constructive insights and valuable suggestions are earnestly solicited in the collective interest to strengthen and foster the collective growth of football in Jammu & Kashmir.  All stakeholders are requested to kindly make it convenient to attend the deliberation on scheduled date and time. The stakeholders who are unable to attend the meeting physically may participate through virtual mode. The meeting link shall be shared separately. To obtain the link, kindly email on jkstatesportscouncil@gmail.com by or before 02.11.2026 (10:00 AM).

Dr GoodDay luxCare studio opens sixth outlet in Kashmir
Dr GoodDay luxCare studio opens sixth outlet in Kashmir
KS news desk October 30, 2026 0

Budgam, Oct 30: Dr GoodDay LuxCare Studio, a homegrown textile-care venture founded by medical professional-turned-entrepreneur Dr Salma Nabi, on Friday inaugurated its sixth outlet at Agrikalan Magam in Budgam district, marking another milestone in its expansion across Kashmir. The outlet was inaugurated by noted Kashmiri writer Adfar Ghulam Nabi and Ghulam Din Khan in the presence of guests and well-wishers. Founded in 2025, the venture aims to introduce professional laundry, dry-cleaning and specialised textile-care services, with particular emphasis on preserving Kashmir's traditional and delicate fabrics. Dr Salma Nabi, an MBBS-qualified medical professional who transitioned into entrepreneurship, spent nearly two years researching modern textile-care techniques, including dry cleaning, wet cleaning, leather treatment, carpet cleaning and environmentally conscious cleaning methods. As part of her research, she visited textile-care centres in Pune, Mumbai, Chennai and Delhi to study modern machinery, industry practices and business models. The company began commercial operations with its first outlet at Chanapora in August 2025. However, legal and personal challenges led to its closure shortly afterwards. Dr Nabi resumed operations in November 2025 and gradually rebuilt the business, expanding it to six outlets across Kashmir. A major focus of the venture is specialised cleaning and maintenance of traditional Kashmiri textiles, including Pashmina shawls, Sozni embroidery, Tilla work, Aari embroidery, Crewel work, Namda, Gabba and handwoven carpets. The company said it follows fabric-specific cleaning methods to help preserve the texture, colour, finish and quality of delicate garments and intricate embroidery. “I wanted to address a real gap in Kashmir by combining textile science, modern technology and our traditional knowledge of fabrics. Our Pashmina, Sozni, Tilla, Namda and handwoven carpets are part of our identity. They deserve specialised care,” Dr Nabi said. The studio offers professional dry cleaning, wet cleaning, premium laundry, bridal-wear cleaning, leather bag and shoe cleaning, carpet and rug cleaning, sofa and upholstery cleaning, curtain, blanket and quilt cleaning, besides steam ironing and on-site ironing services for weddings and other events. Operating under the philosophy, “No to Bleach. No to Petrol. Yes to Science-Led Textile Care,” the company said it focuses on modern cleaning techniques while reducing reliance on harsh chemicals wherever appropriate. Beyond commercial expansion, the venture aims to generate local employment, promote professional skill development and encourage greater participation of women in the organised service sector. Dr Nabi said the objective was to build a sustainable Kashmiri brand that combined modern technology with an understanding of the region's traditional craftsmanship and textile heritage. With its latest outlet at Magam, Dr GoodDay LuxCare Studio plans to further expand its services across the Valley while promoting specialised textile care and creating employment opportunities.

KU successfully implements AI-powered facial biometric verification for JKSET/LASET exam
KU successfully implements AI-powered facial biometric verification for JKSET/LASET exam
KS news desk October 25, 2026 0

Srinagar, Oct 25: The Directorate of Information Technology and Support Systems (IT&SS), University of Kashmir (KU) successfully developed and implemented an AI-powered facial biometric recognition and verification mobile application for the JKSET/LASET examination conducted on Sunday across J&K and Ladakh. As per the official figures, out 16821 registered candidates, including 8,342 from the Jammu Division, 7,722 from the Kashmir Division and 757 from Ladakh,  13252 appeared for the examination. "The mobile application facilitated technology-assisted identity verification through more than 700 invigilators and examination personnel deployed across examination centres," the handout reads. The application enabled examination personnel to capture candidates’ live photographs along with the geolocation of the verification site. "Using facial recognition algorithms, the captured photographs were automatically compared with the photographs submitted by candidates during the application process, generating matched or unmatched verification results to support reliable candidate identification," it reads. The solution integrates pre-trained facial recognition models to analyse and compare facial features, enabling efficient, AI-assisted biometric identity verification at examination centres. "Its mobile-based implementation streamlined the verification process and reduced dependence on manual identity checks," the handout reads. Deployed on the University of Kashmir’s Data Centre infrastructure, the application was designed to support concurrent access by examination personnel across multiple centres, facilitating responsive and smooth operation during the examination. "Deploying the solution on the University’s local infrastructure also enabled greater institutional control over data processing and the handling of examination-related information," it reads. Data privacy and information security were integral considerations in the implementation. Encryption safeguards were employed to protect sensitive candidate information and secure data transmission, helping maintain the confidentiality and integrity of examination-related data. "This initiative underscores varsity's continued commitment to leveraging indigenous technological innovation, artificial intelligence and digital transformation to strengthen examination management, improve operational efficiency, and promote transparent, reliable and secure examination processes across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh," the handout reads. The successful implementation demonstrates the potential of AI-powered facial biometric verification to support the integrity and efficiency of large-scale examinations through technology-driven identity authentication. In the Jammu Division, examination centres were located at five main centres in Jammu, Kathua, Rajouri, Udhampur and Bhaderwah. In Kashmir division, three main centres were established at Srinagar, Anantnag and Baramulla, while Leh and Kargil served as the main centres in Ladakh. The centres were spread across the regions to facilitate candidates’ access to the examination. Vice-Chancellor KU Prof. Nilofer Khan visited examination centres across Srinagar to review the arrangements and oversee the smooth conduct of the examination. She was accompanied by a team of University officials and faculty members. Prof. Khan thanked the civil and police administrations of Srinagar, Anantnag and Baramulla, for their support and cooperation in ensuring the smooth conduct of the examination. “The smooth conduct of JKSET/LASET reflects the coordinated efforts of the University team and the support extended by the district and police administrations. We remain committed to ensuring a fair, transparent and well-organised examination process for all candidates,” she said. Prof. Khan, along with Member Secretary JKSET/LASET Agency, Prof. Aijaz Ahmad, and the team, visited several examination centres within and outside the main campus to take stock of the arrangements. To facilitate the movement of candidates, the University also made special transport arrangements, deploying buses along designated routes to ensure convenient access to examination centres.

Have courage to fight, or perish:Dr Farooq tells workers at Baramulla convention
Have courage to fight, or perish:Dr Farooq tells workers at Baramulla convention
KS news desk October 24, 2026 0

Baramulla, Oct 24: Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Saturday asked people to show courage and stand together to defend their rights, warning that they risked perishing if they failed to confront challenges. Addressing a workers’ convention in Baramulla, Dr Farooq said Jammu and Kashmir is going through difficult times and people needed to stand together to bring about change. “If you have the courage, we will fight them; if you don’t, you will perish,” Dr Farooq said. He urged people to speak the truth and stand firmly for their rights. “We would have vanished, but having courage and fighting back will help us persist,” he said. He said people should not expect change to come on its own, stressing that collective efforts were necessary to secure their rights. “We do not want to go against the country, but we want to tell them (our neighbours) to change themselves,” he said. The NC president said the Centre had promised to restore statehood after delimitation and elections, but the commitment remained unfulfilled. “We are going through tough times. In Delhi, we were promised statehood after delimitation and elections, but that is nowhere,” he said. Dr Farooq further urged people to rise above religious and sectarian differences and raise a united voice, saying unity was essential to address the challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir. “Rulers come and go. They oppress, but that doesn’t last,” he said. He also expressed concern over the lack of awareness among young people about Jammu and Kashmir’s history, urging them to understand the region’s past and the circumstances that shaped its political journey. “We never said we are not Indians, but we keep on reiterating that we have joined Gandhi’s India, Nehru’s India,” he said. Dr Farooq also criticised the Peoples Democratic Party, alleging that its alliance with the BJP had contributed to the loss of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in 2019. (KNO)

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NSUI protests after NTA cancels NEET-UG 2026 over paper leak

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.

May 12, 2026

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