Baramati, Jan 28: A plane carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar on Wednesday crashed during landing in Baramati on Wednesday morning.  Early reports from local sources like Saam TV state that Ajit Pawar and his security guards are safe, having narrowly escaped the crash. However, some other reports (like NDTV Marathi) mentioned that he was being evaluated as "injured" or in a serious situation immediately following the impact. Emergency services and senior security officials have reached the site in Baramati. Rescue teams were deployed immediately after the aircraft lost control during the landing phase. Amid ongoing elections to the Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis, Dy CM Ajit Pawar was travelling from Mumbai to Baramati to attend a public meeting. The information regarding the extent of injuries and the exact cause of the crash (whether a technical failure or weather-related) is still being confirmed by official government statements. Official confirmation was awaited. Unconfirmed reports said the plane was attempting to make a landing at Baramati. Visuals from the site show the wreckage of the plane engulfed in flames. There were people at the wreckage site trying to extend help in every possible way. The locals had rushed to the spot on seeing the helicopter crash-land. The number of people on board is not yet confirmed. Rescue and relief operations are currently underway at the site. Locals are also helping the police and the relief officials in assisting the injured to the ambulances. This incident comes after several aviation-related scares for the leader. In October 2024, a helicopter intended to pick up his party colleague Sunil Tatkare crashed in Pune, and there have been previous instances of emergency landings in the region due to bad weather. Meanwhile Directorate General of Civil Aviation (GDCA) confirmed that Ajit Pawar, Deputy CM of Maharashtra, was onboard along with two more personnel (1 PSO and 1 attendant) and 2 crew (PIC+FO) members. "As per initial information, no person on board has survived the crash," DGCA in a statement said.
Bulawayo, Jan 28: India moved to the top of the Group 2 points table with a convincing win over Zimbabwe in the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup. Meanwhile, Pakistan also took a step towards the semifinals with a solid win over New Zealand. The Group 2 standings after the recent fixtures have set up an enticing contest between India and Pakistan on Sunday. Pakistan proved they are a force to be reckoned with at the ICC Under-19 Menâs Cricket World Cup with a comprehensive eight-wicket win over New Zealand. In a dominant all-round display, Pakistan chased down a modest target of 111 inside 17.1 overs. The big win kept Pakistan in the hunt for a semi-final spot. Though they are currently third in the standings, behind England and India, they have notched a healthy net run rate of +1.484, which may come in handy if thereâs a logjam at the top of the table. Electing to field first, Pakistan pacers made the most of the seaming conditions at the Harare Sports Club. Ali Raza got the ball rolling as he trapped Marco Alpe's leg before the wicket. While Raza claimed three wickets for 36 runs in seven overs, Abdul Subhan produced a match-winning spell of 4/11 from his quota of 6.3 overs. For New Zealand, opener Hugo Bogue notched the highest score - a quickfire innings of 36, which included six fours and two maximums. However, the Pakistan bowling attack ensured that the Black Caps didn't have any partnerships going. In the second innings, rising star Sameer Minhas led the chase with a second straight half-century in the competition. Minhas scored an unbeaten 76 and took Pakistan over the finish line with an emphatic six down the ground. India rode on a splendid century from Vihaan Malhotra to register a whopping 204-run victory over Zimbabwe to reclaim their top spot in Group 2 standings. After being asked to bat first, Indian openers Aaron George and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stitched together a quick-fire 44-run opening stand. George's departure didn't deter Sooryavanshi as he continued with the onslaught to bring up his half-century. Zimbabwe clawed back some initiative, sending the 14-year-old and Vedant Trivedi back in the hut within the space of five overs. Malhotra and Abhigyan Kundu then settled into a fine batting rhythm to steer India clear of any potential danger. The former fired India's first century at the tournament, while Kundu's 61 off 62 deliveries set India on the course for a big score. Khilan A. Patel's 12-ball 30 added to the late fireworks as India finished with 352/8 from their 50 overs. Chasing a daunting total, Zimbabwe lost their openers, Nathaniel Hlabangana, Dhruv Patel, and Brendon Senzere early in the chase. Kian Blignaut and Leeroy Chiwaula attempted to rebuild the Zimbabwean innings, with the latter also bringing up a resilient half-century. But Ayush Mhatre and Udhav Mohan snapped up three wickets each, helping India curtail the Zimbabwe challenge to 148 after a lower-order collapse. The victory means only three teams from Group 2, India, England, and Pakistan, remain in the hunt for the semi-finals spots, with a huge bearing on Sunday's blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan. (IANS)
New Delhi, Jan 28: The Budget Session of Parliament will begin on Wednesday with the address of President Droupadi Murmu to the joint sitting of both Houses. According to reports, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to table the Budget on February 1, which falls on a Sunday -- a rare occurrence that would require special arrangements. The Economic Survey, providing a comprehensive review of the economy, is anticipated to be laid before Parliament on January 29. Earlier this month, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced on X: "On the recommendation of the Govt of India, Honâble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu ji has approved the summoning of both the Houses of Parliament for the Budget Session 2026. The Session will commence on 28 January 2026 and continue till 2 April 2026. The first phase concludes on 13 February 2026, with Parliament reassembling on 9 March 2026, a vital step towards meaningful debate and people-centric governance." The announcement sets the stage for one of the most important parliamentary events of the year, during which the Union Budget for the financial year 2026-27 is expected to be presented. Rijiju's post stressed the government's commitment to transparent and effective legislative processes. The two-phase format allows for initial discussions on the Budget and other key matters, followed by detailed scrutiny in standing committees during the recess, before final deliberations and passage of financial bills. This session comes at a crucial time as the government focuses on economic growth, fiscal consolidation, and addressing emerging challenges in sectors like infrastructure, employment, and sustainability. Parliamentarians from across political parties are expected to engage in intensive deliberations on taxation, public expenditure, and policy reforms. The entire session will consist of 30 sittings of Parliament. (IANS)
Baramulla, Jan 27: Baramulla Police Tuesday demonstrated swift response and humanitarian commitment by extending timely assistance to people in distress at multiple locations. The assistance was provided amid intense snowfall across various parts of District Baramulla. "Following receipt of an emergency call on cell number 9103170024 by the SHO Police Station Kreeri, the information was immediately relayed to Police Post Wagoora for urgent intervention," a Police handout reads. "Acting without delay, a police team rushed to Watergam, where a pregnant woman, Gulshan Begam, wife of Ashiq Ahmad Ganie, resident of Watergam, required immediate medical attention," it reads The handout reads that despite adverse weather and difficult road conditions, the police team successfully evacuated her and shifted her safely to SDH Kreeri for necessary treatment. In another incident, Police Post Wagoora received information via cell number 919797489628 regarding Abdul Rehman Shah, resident of Mongam, "who sustained serious injuries after coming under a snow-laden shed." "Police personnel promptly reached the spot, rescued the injured person, and shifted him to SDH Kreeri for medical care," it reads. In another life-saving operation, DySP Operations Kreeri received information regarding a two-year-old baby girl, daughter of Wahid Fayaz, son of Fayaz Ahmad Lone, resident of Khan Mohalla, Thindma, Kreeri, who had fallen unconscious at her residence. "Due to heavy snowfall and extremely slushy and slippery road conditions on a steep slope, neither the family nor an ambulance could access the location," it reads. Police personnel immediately rushed to the spot and evacuated the child to SDH Kreeri, where she is presently reported to be stable, it reads. "Baramulla Police remain steadfast in their commitment to public service and urge citizens to contact the nearest police unit for assistance during emergencies, especially in view of the prevailing harsh weather conditions," the official handout reads.
Baramati, Jan 28: A plane carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar on Wednesday crashed during landing in Baramati on Wednesday morning.  Early reports from local sources like Saam TV state that Ajit Pawar and his security guards are safe, having narrowly escaped the crash. However, some other reports (like NDTV Marathi) mentioned that he was being evaluated as "injured" or in a serious situation immediately following the impact. Emergency services and senior security officials have reached the site in Baramati. Rescue teams were deployed immediately after the aircraft lost control during the landing phase. Amid ongoing elections to the Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis, Dy CM Ajit Pawar was travelling from Mumbai to Baramati to attend a public meeting. The information regarding the extent of injuries and the exact cause of the crash (whether a technical failure or weather-related) is still being confirmed by official government statements. Official confirmation was awaited. Unconfirmed reports said the plane was attempting to make a landing at Baramati. Visuals from the site show the wreckage of the plane engulfed in flames. There were people at the wreckage site trying to extend help in every possible way. The locals had rushed to the spot on seeing the helicopter crash-land. The number of people on board is not yet confirmed. Rescue and relief operations are currently underway at the site. Locals are also helping the police and the relief officials in assisting the injured to the ambulances. This incident comes after several aviation-related scares for the leader. In October 2024, a helicopter intended to pick up his party colleague Sunil Tatkare crashed in Pune, and there have been previous instances of emergency landings in the region due to bad weather. Meanwhile Directorate General of Civil Aviation (GDCA) confirmed that Ajit Pawar, Deputy CM of Maharashtra, was onboard along with two more personnel (1 PSO and 1 attendant) and 2 crew (PIC+FO) members. "As per initial information, no person on board has survived the crash," DGCA in a statement said.
Jammu, Jan 21: Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) State President Vivek Bali on Wednesday criticized PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti over her remarks on 1953 incident. Bali was referring to the statement of Mehbooba Mufti wherein she said âThose Who Divided Regions Questioning Us" while drawing parallels with 1953 and referred to the arrest of Sheikh Abdullah following his alleged support for the Dixon Plan. In an statement issued here, Vivek Bali along with his political advisor Dilawar Singh questioned Mehbooba Muftiâs intentions and political narrative, stating that such remarks were misleading and aimed at reviving old controversies for political gain. He asked why, during the tenure of the PDP-led government in Jammu and Kashmir, no concrete steps were taken to create separate districts in the Pir Panjal region or to appoint a dedicated Divisional Commissioner for the area. Bali said these demands were ignored when the PDP was in power, raising serious doubts about the sincerity of the partyâs current claims. "We want a Jammu and Kashmir free from unnecessary interference. We believe in the unity of the region as it existed during the Maharajaâs time, and we do not support attempts to disturb that unity for narrow political interests,â Bali said. He accused Mehbooba Mufti of indulging in vote bank politics by repeatedly raising sensitive historical and regional issues instead of focusing on present-day development and public welfare. He added that the people of J&K do not support this kind of divisive politics and have repeatedly expressed their desire for unity, peace, and progress. âWe do not want division. Any attempt to fragment Jammu and Kashmir on regional or political lines is against the wishes of the common people,â Bali said. Vivek Bali also made it clear that the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party strongly opposes any forces or narratives that seek to divide Jammu and Kashmir into separate states or regions. He said SBSP stands firmly for the unity, integrity, and harmonious development of Jammu and Kashmir, and will continue to raise its voice against politics that promote division, confusion, and instability for personal or electoral gains.
Udhampur, Jan 10: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo Saturday conducted an extensive tour of far-flung areas of Tehsil Panchari of District Udhampur and felicitated the winners of 6th ISKOI India Karate Championshipâ2025 during an impressive medal ceremony held at Government Higher Secondary School, Panchari here. Mission Director POSHAN Sajad Ahmad Ganai, Director Social Welfare Jammu Ranjeet Singh, Director Health Services Jammu, Director Colleges, PO Poshan, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Joint Director School Education Udhampur -Reasi, DDC Member Panchari, other district officers, parents of medal winners and large number of locals were also present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, the Minister congratulated the girl achievers, their parents and the local populace on the remarkable accomplishment of young girls. She lauded their dedication, discipline and fighting spirit and expressed pride in the fact that many of these medal winners hailed from far-flung and remote areas, overcoming limited resources and challenging circumstances, to bring laurels to Jammu and Kashmir. Minister Sakeena said that the achievements of these young girl sportspersons reflect their hard work and their parents as well as the growing sports culture in the region. âYour success proves that talent knows no geographical barriers. With determination and proper guidance, our youth can excel on any national and international platform,â she stated. Highlighting the importance of sports, the Minister said that sporting activities provide a common platform for budding sportspersons to showcase their talent and prepare them to face challenges in life. She urged the participants to actively engage in sports for physical fitness, mental well-being and overall personality development. She assured continued government support for promoting sports activities, especially in rural and far-flung areas, to ensure equal opportunities for talented players. She also lauded the efforts of the International Shito-Ryu Karate Organisation of India for promoting sports culture among youth, especially in rural areas. During the ceremony, the Minister interacted with the players, coaches and parents, appreciating the role of coaches and families in nurturing young talent. She encouraged the medal winners to continue their training and aim for greater achievements at national and international competitions. During the ceremony, as many as 47 medal winners of the 6th ISKOI India Karate championshipâ2025 were felicitated by the Minister and presented trophies and prizes to them. On the sidelines of the event, Sakeena Itoo Later distributed school bags and umbrellas under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme. Later, the Minister also interacted with DDC Member Panchari, former PRI members and locals who projected several issues and demands pertaining to health, education, road and other sector before the Minister. While interacting with them, the Minister said that the Director Health Services Jammu has been given strict instructions to prepare a holistic plan for upgradation of medical care facilities at the PHC Panchari as well as addressing shortage of staff, owing to the remoteness of area from district head quarters. She further added that the maintenance of road and allied works will be taken up with concerned quarters for immediate redressal. She reaffirmed that the Government led by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah is committed to strengthen road connectivity, health infrastructure and other essential facilities to ensure every basic service is available at the doorsteps of common people. She also said that the Tourism potential of the Panchari area will be tapped to its full extent by the Government, which will eventually lead to overall development of the area and add to its economic efficiency.
Baramulla, Jan 25: The Indian Army on Sunday organised Know Your Army event at District Police Line (DPL) Baramulla. From Artillery guns to Fly past by Drones in action and from new generation vehicles and latest equipment on display, the Dagger Division of Indian Army put on display its weapons to instill national pride among locals in Baramulla. The event was organised to commemorate 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour. The event was organised by Dagger Division of Chinar Corps to showcase the operational capabilities of the Indian army and to inspire local youth to pursue careers in the Armed Forces, reinforcing National pride and unity. GOC, Dagger Division was the Chief Guest at the occasion while other and senior army officers and officials from civil administration were also present at the occasion. The event was declared open by the by GoC Dagger Division for the public. "Weather did not dampen the spirit of the enthusiastic locals and children who thronged the event in large numbers to witnessed the display," an official handout reads. Major highlights of the celebrations were an impressive capability display of Swarm of Drones, martial arts by Army and children of Chinar Yuva. "Children witnessing the event were enthralled by the mesmerising show of the Canine companions of soldiers," the handout reads. The people present at the occasion were entertained by vibrant, energetic and melodious Kashmiri renditions of famous songs sung by the local band, Strings of Baramulla of Chinar YUVA Center.  A captivating display of state of the art weapons and military equipment found favour with the youth. The event witnessed by approximately 1500 spectators, including Army and government officials besids the students from schools and colleges. The event received widespread appreciations from students and the local community, who expressed admiration for the discipline, dedication and combat readiness of the Indian Army. "Event successfully strengthened public confidence in the armed forces and fostered a renewed sense of patriotism among the youth of Baramulla," the handout reads.
Bengaluru, Jan 9: BGS Bloomfield School celebrated its Annual Day 2026 with a grand cultural evening showcasing creativity, talent, and holistic learning. The event, held on the school campus, featured vibrant performances by students from Nursery to Grade 10, reflecting the institutionâs commitment to academic excellence, character-building, and co-curricular development. Member of Parliament from Bangalore Central Parliamentary Constituency, P C Mohan graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while renowned Kannada stand-up comedian Gangavathi Pranesh was the Guest of Honour. Their presence added inspiration and enthusiasm to the celebrations, encouraging students to pursue their aspirations with confidence and dedication. The programme began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a series of captivating cultural performances, including classical dance, theatre, musical ensembles, and thematic presentations centred on unity, gratitude, and nation-building. Each performance reflected months of preparation and the dedicated guidance of the schoolâs faculty. Addressing the gathering, Chairman Dr B Gurappa Naidu expressed pride in the studentsâ achievements. âAnnual Day is a reflection of our studentsâ creativity, discipline, and teamwork. At BGS Bloomfield, we strive to nurture every childâs potential by offering a balanced environment that promotes academic excellence alongside cultural enrichment,â he said. He added that the performances stood as a testament to the collective efforts of students, teachers, and parents. Chief Guest P C Mohan lauded the schoolâs holistic approach to education, saying it was inspiring to see young students display confidence, discipline, and creativity on stage. âInstitutions like BGS Bloomfield play a vital role in shaping responsible and empowered citizens of the future,â he said. He congratulating the management, faculty, and students for the impressive celebration. Guest of Honour Gangavathi Pranesh brought a touch of humour to the occasion while appreciating the studentsâ heartfelt performances and the schoolâs emphasis on value-based education. The event concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of teachers, parents, and partners in making the celebration memorable. "The Annual Day reinforced BGS Bloomfieldâs vision of nurturing confident, compassionate, and future-ready learners," the handout reads.
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
Baramulla, Jan 27: Baramulla Police Tuesday demonstrated swift response and humanitarian commitment by extending timely assistance to people in distress at multiple locations. The assistance was provided amid intense snowfall across various parts of District Baramulla. "Following receipt of an emergency call on cell number 9103170024 by the SHO Police Station Kreeri, the information was immediately relayed to Police Post Wagoora for urgent intervention," a Police handout reads. "Acting without delay, a police team rushed to Watergam, where a pregnant woman, Gulshan Begam, wife of Ashiq Ahmad Ganie, resident of Watergam, required immediate medical attention," it reads The handout reads that despite adverse weather and difficult road conditions, the police team successfully evacuated her and shifted her safely to SDH Kreeri for necessary treatment. In another incident, Police Post Wagoora received information via cell number 919797489628 regarding Abdul Rehman Shah, resident of Mongam, "who sustained serious injuries after coming under a snow-laden shed." "Police personnel promptly reached the spot, rescued the injured person, and shifted him to SDH Kreeri for medical care," it reads. In another life-saving operation, DySP Operations Kreeri received information regarding a two-year-old baby girl, daughter of Wahid Fayaz, son of Fayaz Ahmad Lone, resident of Khan Mohalla, Thindma, Kreeri, who had fallen unconscious at her residence. "Due to heavy snowfall and extremely slushy and slippery road conditions on a steep slope, neither the family nor an ambulance could access the location," it reads. Police personnel immediately rushed to the spot and evacuated the child to SDH Kreeri, where she is presently reported to be stable, it reads. "Baramulla Police remain steadfast in their commitment to public service and urge citizens to contact the nearest police unit for assistance during emergencies, especially in view of the prevailing harsh weather conditions," the official handout reads.
Kupwara, Jan 26: Keran witnessed a proud and inspiring celebration of the 77th Republic Day of India the Rooh-e-Hind Flag Site. The celebrations were organised under the aegis of the "Indian Armyâs 6 Rashtriya Rifles." The event was marked by solemnity, patriotic fervour, and a deep sense of national pride, commemorating the adoption of the Constitution of India and honouring the supreme sacrifices made by the nationâs soldiers. Locals described the occasion as the first major public celebration in Keran expressing happiness and gratitude over the manner in which the Indian Army celebrated the national festival alongside the local population. The celebrations commenced with the ceremonial unfurling of the National Tricolour in the presence of Army officers, civil dignitaries, senior citizens, and local villagers. A specially constituted Guard of Honour from the Battalion conducted the ceremonial proceedings. The atmosphere was filled with emotion and pride as school children sang the National Anthem, symbolising hope, unity, and a brighter future. A vibrant cultural programme followed, featuring patriotic songs and traditional folk dances performed by local school children. Their enthusiastic performances beautifully showcased the regionâs rich cultural heritage. On this occasion, a pledge for a Drug-Free Keran was administered, reaffirming the collective commitment to building a healthy, disciplined, and progressive society. An interactive session over tea and refreshments provided an opportunity for meaningful dialogue on ongoing Operation Sadbhavana and Border Area Development Programme (BADP) initiatives, further strengthening cordial civil-military relations. The live telecast of the Republic Day Parade from New Delhi was also displayed on a large LED screen for the audience. Additionally, Khairiyat Patrols were carried out in nearby villages, wherein miniature National Flags and sweets were distributed among children, spreading joy and patriotic spirit. The event was attended by the Tehsildar Keran, SHO Keran, officials from various government departments, and senior citizens. The celebration witnessed enthusiastic participation from all sections of society and stood as a powerful symbol of unity, national integrity, and shared responsibility towards the nation.
Srinagar, Jan 26: Cluster University (CU) Srinagar Monday celebrated the 77th Republic Day as the vice chancellor furled the tricolour at the University campus. With the national anthem playing in the background, the Vice Chancellor CU Srinagar Prof Muhammad Mubin inspected the ceremonial Guard of Honour presented by NCC cadets and students. Those present on the occasion included Dean Academic Affairs, Registrar, Controller of Examinations, Nodal Principal, Principals of constituent and affiliated colleges, Deans of various faculties, Sports Secretary and Coordinators of IG/ PG programmes besides the administrative staff of the university. In his address, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mobin said Republic Day is not merely a ceremonial celebration but a solemn reminder of our constitutional responsibilities and our collective commitment to uphold democratic ideals. âThe theme of this yearâs Republic Day, centred on 150 years of Vande Mataram, places a special responsibility on institutions of higher learning," he said . VC CU Srinagar said universities play a vital role in shaping enlightened citizens, fostering innovation and contributing meaningfully to national development. "Cluster University Srinagar continues to accord top priority to academic reforms by strengthening curricular and co-curricular activities,â he said. Prof. Mobin said the university is making steady progress and key reforms promoting multidisciplinary education, skill development and research orientation have been successfully implemented in line with NEP 2020. He said the university remains committed to inclusive education, student welfare and community outreach. âAs we celebrate the 77th Republic Day, let us renew our resolve to strengthen institutional integrity, inspire our students to become responsible citizens guided by ethical values and scientific temper, and contribute meaningfully to nation-building,â the VC added. The proceedings of the programme were conducted moderated by Dr. Uzma Shafi.
Srinagar, Jan 26: Vice Chancellor Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo Monday unfurled the National Flag at the varsity on eve of 77th Republic Day. The ceremony was attended by the employees of the university including Deans of schools, Head of Departments, Centres, Officers of the university besides the security contingent. Addressing the participants, Prof Romshoo highlighted the importance of the day and said that on this day in 1950, the Constitution came into force and India became a Democratic Republic. "By commemorating this day we reaffirm our commitment to the constitutional ideals of equality, fraternity and justice," VC IUST said. He reflected on the role of Educational Institutions in the development of the Nation and of realizing the goal of VIKSIT Bharat. "Education is the quintessential tool of transformation, progress and prosperity of the country," he said. He referred to the paradigm shift in the wake of NEP 2020 and said that the focus on skilling, vocational education, multidisciplinary learning, innovation and entrepreneurship and said that the objective of nurturing of our youth is coming true. About IUST's focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, he said that the IUST's Start Up support ecosystem is being recognized and acknowledged at the National Level. He congratulated the CIED IUST incubatee, Gr8T Bats for being conferred with the Award for Outstanding Industrial Entrepreneurship by the Govt of J and KÂ on the eve of Republic Day 2026. He said that the Institutional Development Plan being framed, among other things places special focus on promoting innovations, research, entrepreneurship, skilling, and sports. He said that IUST shall have a state of the art sports campus to nurture youth for national and international sporting events. "In this regard, the University will invite International sports icons to mentor our students," he said.
Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmirâs Baramulla district is proving that dedication and ambition can propel one to global heights. Munaf-ul-Raquib who holds a B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, has gained international recognition for his research on black holes and cosmology. Munaf-ul-Raquib revealed that his paper on the thermodynamics of black holes was recently published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR). âAbout a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,â he said. He said that since his research was published in the international journal, he has been receiving opportunities from various countries to participate in research dialogues. Raquib added that in the coming months he is scheduled to participate in international conferences in Paris on April 16 and later in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Sopore aerospace engineer noted that he is also participating in various conferences across different countries. Speaking about his research, Munaf-ul-Raquib addressed a fundamental paradox in astrophysics: how black holes can appear to violate thermodynamic laws, particularly concerning entropy.âIf we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,â he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeebâs research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. âIn this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,â he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. âIt is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,â he said. Raqeeb shared that Astrophysics was his childhood dream, and his grandfather encouraged me immensely. "After my grandfather passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic, my parents continued to champion my aspirations. My parents left no stone unturned in helping me pursue my dreams,â he said. He said that his academic path included taking the JEE and later the AME CET entrance exams, through which he secured a seat in aerospace engineering at the Nasik Research Centre. âMy parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,â he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. âJust as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.â âYoung people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,â he further added.
