Srinagar, Oct 21: An executive delegation of the Private Schools Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK), District Anantnag Chapter, Wednesday met Director School Education Kashmir (DSEK) Naseer Ahmad Wani. The delegation was led by Vice President South Kashmir Dr. Zulfiqar Ahmad who was accompanied by President PSAJK Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam. During the meeting, the delegation apprised DSEK of the key bottlenecks faced by private schools and emphasized the need for holistic academic development, streamlined administrative procedures, digitalisation, and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen the educational ecosystem of J&K. The delegation highlighted the need for PARAKH dashboard training and systematic upskilling of private school teachers in accordance with educational zone-wise requirements. It urged the Directorate to facilitate teacher training through DIETs, Resource Centres (RCs), and Cluster Resource Centres (CRCs), enabling private school teachers to benefit from the same capacity-building opportunities available to their government-sector counterparts. The initiative, the delegation stressed, would contribute significantly towards improving foundational literacy and numeracy outcomes in line with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The delegation also raised concerns over the repetitive collection and submission of data and documents by private schools, despite the availability of institutional information on the U-DISE portal. It advocated greater reliance on existing digital databases and the elimination of redundant paperwork. The delegation proposed that, wherever necessary, data verification and collection should be undertaken at the zonal level at intervals of six months, ensuring that administrative requirements do not disrupt academic schedules or classroom activities. DSEK Naseer Ahmad Wani appreciated the concerns and constructive suggestions put forward by the PSAJK delegation and assured that appropriate steps would be considered to do away with outdated, unproductive, and cumbersome administrative practices. He encouraged school leaders to remain passionate and committed to the welfare of students and the parent community, reiterating that both government and private institutions share the common responsibility of imparting quality education to the younger generation. The delegation expressed its gratitude to the DSEK and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir for recognising the private education sector as an important knowledge partner in the educational ecosystem. It appreciated the DSEK's to engage with stakeholders and acknowledge the contribution of private schools towards expanding educational opportunities and strengthening academic outcomes across the Union Territory. The delegation further reiterated that effective coordination between government and private schools, supported by systematic teacher training, digital governance, and reduced administrative duplication, would help realise the goals of NEP 2020 and improve Jammu & Kashmir's overall educational performance, particularly in foundational literacy and numeracy. The PSAJK delegation commended the efforts of the Education Department and the UT Government in advancing educational opportunities and working towards fulfilling the aspirations of millions of students, parents, and other stakeholders. The Director appreciated the proactive engagement and keen interest demonstrated by the PSAJK Anantnag executive body and assured the delegation of continued support and cooperation in addressing genuine concerns and advancing the shared mission of quality education for the younger generation of Jammu & Kashmir. The delegation also included District President Ishfaq Ahmad, District General Secretary Suhail Ahmad, Hilal Ahmed Bhat ( Zonal President Dooru), Shahista Muzaffar (Zonal President Anantnag), Saima( Executive Member) Libni Latoo( Executive Body Member cum spokespersonAnantnag), Fayaz Ahmed ( Zonal President Shangus) Farooq Ahmed ( Executive Body Meber) Mohammad Shafi ( Advisor PSAJK Anantnag).
Singapore, Oct 21: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo led a high-level delegation of Jammu and Kashmir at ITB Asia 2026 in Singapore to showcase J&Kâs diverse tourism potential and invite global travel stakeholders to explore the regionâs rich tourism offerings. The Minister is accompanied by Director Tourism, Jammu Dr. Vikas Gupta, Special Secretary Tourism J&K Suraj Parkash Rukwal and Director Finance Rashim Deepika. The Minister also jointly inaugurated the India Pavilion at ITB Asia 2026 alongside Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, Dr. Shilpak Ambule, providing an important platform to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a premier destination for domestic and international tourists. During the opening day of the grand international travel trade event, the Minister and the delegation held a series of business-to-business (B2B) interactions and strategic meetings with international tour operators, travel trade associations, government representatives and other key stakeholders from the global tourism industry. The interactions focused on highlighting the diverse tourism experiences offered by Jammu and Kashmir, including its renowned leisure and pilgrimage destinations, adventure tourism circuits, winter sports, offbeat destinations and rich cultural and heritage attractions. The delegation also encouraged international travel operators and tourism partners to explore opportunities for collaboration and include Jammu and Kashmir in their travel packages and destination portfolios. Speaking on the occasion, Minister Sakeena Itoo said that Jammu and Kashmir offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, spiritual destinations and adventure experiences, making it an attractive destination for travellers with diverse interests. âJammu and Kashmir has immense tourism potential, and our endeavour is to showcase its diversity to the world. From its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural traditions to pilgrimage tourism, adventure activities and winter sports, the Union Territory offers unique experiences for visitors throughout the year," Sakina Itoo said. She further said that international tourism platforms such as ITB Asia provide valuable opportunities to connect with global stakeholders, strengthen partnerships and expand the reach of Jammu and Kashmirâs tourism sector. âOur participation at ITB Asia reflects the J&K governmentâs commitment to promoting Jammu and Kashmir on the international tourism map. We invite tour operators, travel agencies, investors and tourism professionals from across the world to explore the opportunities available in Jammu and Kashmir and partner with us in promoting its tourism potential," she added. The minister also emphasised the importance of strengthening tourism partnerships, improving destination visibility and encouraging sustainable tourism practices to ensure that the benefits of tourism reach local communities and contribute to economic growth and employment generation. On the occasion, the J&K delegation also highlighted the opportunities available for collaboration across various tourism segments and underscored the importance of developing customised travel experiences to cater to the evolving preferences of international visitors. Pertinently, the engagements at ITB Asia 2026 are aimed at fostering long-term partnerships with global travel companies, facilitating greater tourism exchanges and positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a preferred destination for leisure, adventure, pilgrimage and cultural tourism. The participation of the Jammu and Kashmir delegation at the international event is expected to further strengthen the Union Territoryâs tourism outreach and create new avenues for collaboration with stakeholders in the global travel and hospitality industry.
Awantipora, Oct 20: Police district Awantipora Tuesday organised cyber awareness programmes at Awantipora and Khrew to sensitise participants about cybercrime, online frauds, digital safety and the responsible use of social media. During the programmes, participants were educated about common cyber threats, phishing scams, online financial frauds, the importance of safeguarding personal information and precautionary measures to be adopted while using digital platforms. As per the official handout, participants were also encouraged to report cybercrime incidents promptly through appropriate channels. The programmes aimed to enhance public awareness about emerging cyber threats and promote safe and responsible digital practices among citizens. Awantipora Police reiterated its commitment to public outreach, cyber safety and creating a secure digital environment for the community.
Dushanbe, Oct 20: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday called upon Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states to work collectively to dismantle the entire ecosystem of terrorism. He said there could be no justification for the menace and no double standards in dealing with those who finance, support or provide safe havens to terrorists. Addressing the 25th meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Singh described terrorism as one of the gravest threats to peace and development, saying it claims innocent lives, disrupts investment and commerce, fuels radicalisation and deprives young people of opportunities. âThere can be no justification for terrorism, no double standards in addressing it, and no place for those who finance, support, or provide safe havens to terrorists,â he said. Referring to the deliberations at the SCO Summit in Bishkek in August-September, Singh recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs emphasis on concrete action by the organisation on security, connectivity and economic opportunities. He said India supported inclusive and mutually beneficial economic engagement among member states, stressing that the SCO must adhere to sovereign equality, consensus and mutual respect. Singh said the creation of additional institutions would not necessarily translate into better outcomes, arguing that new mechanisms should address clearly identified needs, avoid duplication and deliver practical benefits to member countries. Highlighting the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, trade and supply-chain disruptions, energy and food security concerns and technological divides, the Defence Minister called for stronger cooperation to facilitate trade and investment, build resilient supply chains and use technology to drive development. He reaffirmed India's support for adopting an action plan for the Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation Programme for 2026-2030, emphasising that the benefits of economic cooperation must reach all sections of society. Singh also welcomed the decisions taken at the Bishkek summit to establish the Universal Centre in Tashkent and the Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe as permanent SCO bodies. Their effectiveness, he said, would depend on efficient coordination and timely implementation. On regional connectivity, Singh said India supported initiatives aimed at linking markets, facilitating trade and opening new avenues for development. He cited the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chabahar Port as important avenues for connecting Central Asia with wider markets. He however stressed that connectivity projects must be based on consultation and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, warning that initiatives lacking these principles would not be sustainable. He also called for moving beyond physical infrastructure by simplifying customs procedures, promoting digital documentation, improving logistics and adopting interoperable digital solutions to reduce the cost of doing business across the region. The Defence Minister highlighted a symposium on financing infrastructure projects in Central Asia held in Mumbai earlier this month and thanked Central Asian countries and SCO partners for their participation. He also acknowledged the organisation of the first SCO Asian Economic Dialogue. Emphasising the need to measure cooperation through tangible benefits, Singh said the SCO's success should be judged by the opportunities it creates for youth, markets opened for entrepreneurs, technologies made accessible to farmers and small businesses, and connections fostered among societies. He cited India's Digital Public Infrastructure as an example of technology-driven development, saying it had transformed public service delivery and strengthened financial inclusion. He also highlighted India's start-up ecosystem and its focus on women-led development. Singh said India's initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, contributed to affordable clean energy and climate-resilient development. He also referred to Mission LiFE, which promotes sustainable lifestyles and responsible consumption, and the Global Biofuel Alliance, aimed at advancing cleaner energy solutions. Calling upon the SCO to build on its 25-year foundation, Singh urged member states to pursue a forward-looking roadmap centred on consensus-driven cooperation and tangible outcomes. He reaffirmed India's commitment to working with all member countries and invited them to participate in the first SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum, to be hosted by India later this year. The meeting reviewed progress in multilateral economic and trade cooperation and discussed ways to strengthen collaboration in transport, finance, the digital economy and social development. The heads of delegation adopted a joint communiquĂ© covering the meeting's outcomes, the SCO budget for 2027, relevant financial and administrative decisions, and the action plan for the Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation Programme for 2026-2030. The SCO Council of Heads of Government is a key mechanism for promoting economic and other forms of practical cooperation among member states. India has been a full member of the organisation since 2017.
Srinagar, Oct 21: An executive delegation of the Private Schools Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK), District Anantnag Chapter, Wednesday met Director School Education Kashmir (DSEK) Naseer Ahmad Wani. The delegation was led by Vice President South Kashmir Dr. Zulfiqar Ahmad who was accompanied by President PSAJK Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam. During the meeting, the delegation apprised DSEK of the key bottlenecks faced by private schools and emphasized the need for holistic academic development, streamlined administrative procedures, digitalisation, and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen the educational ecosystem of J&K. The delegation highlighted the need for PARAKH dashboard training and systematic upskilling of private school teachers in accordance with educational zone-wise requirements. It urged the Directorate to facilitate teacher training through DIETs, Resource Centres (RCs), and Cluster Resource Centres (CRCs), enabling private school teachers to benefit from the same capacity-building opportunities available to their government-sector counterparts. The initiative, the delegation stressed, would contribute significantly towards improving foundational literacy and numeracy outcomes in line with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The delegation also raised concerns over the repetitive collection and submission of data and documents by private schools, despite the availability of institutional information on the U-DISE portal. It advocated greater reliance on existing digital databases and the elimination of redundant paperwork. The delegation proposed that, wherever necessary, data verification and collection should be undertaken at the zonal level at intervals of six months, ensuring that administrative requirements do not disrupt academic schedules or classroom activities. DSEK Naseer Ahmad Wani appreciated the concerns and constructive suggestions put forward by the PSAJK delegation and assured that appropriate steps would be considered to do away with outdated, unproductive, and cumbersome administrative practices. He encouraged school leaders to remain passionate and committed to the welfare of students and the parent community, reiterating that both government and private institutions share the common responsibility of imparting quality education to the younger generation. The delegation expressed its gratitude to the DSEK and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir for recognising the private education sector as an important knowledge partner in the educational ecosystem. It appreciated the DSEK's to engage with stakeholders and acknowledge the contribution of private schools towards expanding educational opportunities and strengthening academic outcomes across the Union Territory. The delegation further reiterated that effective coordination between government and private schools, supported by systematic teacher training, digital governance, and reduced administrative duplication, would help realise the goals of NEP 2020 and improve Jammu & Kashmir's overall educational performance, particularly in foundational literacy and numeracy. The PSAJK delegation commended the efforts of the Education Department and the UT Government in advancing educational opportunities and working towards fulfilling the aspirations of millions of students, parents, and other stakeholders. The Director appreciated the proactive engagement and keen interest demonstrated by the PSAJK Anantnag executive body and assured the delegation of continued support and cooperation in addressing genuine concerns and advancing the shared mission of quality education for the younger generation of Jammu & Kashmir. The delegation also included District President Ishfaq Ahmad, District General Secretary Suhail Ahmad, Hilal Ahmed Bhat ( Zonal President Dooru), Shahista Muzaffar (Zonal President Anantnag), Saima( Executive Member) Libni Latoo( Executive Body Member cum spokespersonAnantnag), Fayaz Ahmed ( Zonal President Shangus) Farooq Ahmed ( Executive Body Meber) Mohammad Shafi ( Advisor PSAJK Anantnag).
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. âEarlier, 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,â 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. âSometimes we face difficulties in getting forest, environmental and wildlife clearances. But we will follow the required procedures and work towards developing new tourist destinations,â 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)
Srinagar, Sep 20: The 5th edition of the Green Valley Model United Nations (GVMUN) concluded at Green Valley Educational Institute (GVEI) after three days of intensive debate, diplomatic deliberations and discussions on pressing global issues. More than 200 delegates from schools across the Valley participated in the three-day event. The conference was jointly inaugurated by advisor to J&K CM Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Hazratbal Salman Ali Sagar. The valedictory ceremony was attended by social activist Roma Wani as the chief guest and was accompanied by Chairman GVEI, Mohammad Yousuf Wani, Director GVEI Prof. (Dr) Fayaz Ahmad Nika, Principal GVEI, Reyaz Ahmad Kathjoo, faculty members, delegates, staff and students. The three-day conference featured six committees, with delegates taking on the roles of diplomats, policymakers and international representatives to deliberate on complex issues including the Gulf Crisis, international shipping and energy security, and global drug policies. The conference showcased not only public speaking and debating skills but also the ability to develop well-researched policy implications and practical diplomatic solutions, with award-winning papers reflecting diverse approaches to some of the most challenging international questions. Discussions on global drug policies moved beyond conventional debates on prohibition and enforcement, with one position paper advocating a dual-pillar approach combining universal public health, harm reduction and treatment with targeted intervention against transnational criminal networks. The other committees namely Historical Crisis Committee, UNWC, UNSC witnessed thought provoking debates. The Director GVEI Prof. (Dr) Fayaz Ahmad Nikka welcomed the guests and talked about the efforts of this institution in providing the best possible education to its students. The Chief Guest, Roma Wani personally visited the various houses during the last session and interacted with the delegates. She enquired from the delegates about how their interactions and debates can bring changes in the real world. "It is important to take some life lessons from these debates and discussions," she said. While addressing the delegates she said such conferences are very important in nurturing our future generation. "I appreciate the intellect, energy and grit of our students. Our future seems to be in secure hands.â She added. She further said that youth has a greater responsibility to discuss, debate and help in creating a drug free society. The highlight of the valedictory ceremony was the felicitation and prize distribution, where outstanding delegates were recognized for their performance across the various committees, with awards acknowledging excellence in research, diplomacy, articulation, negotiation and committee participation. The vote of thanks was proposed by the Principal GVEI Riyaz Ahmad Kathjoo who expressed gratitude to the chief guest, delegates, other dignitaries and also acknowledged the efforts of the GVMUN Core Team, Executive Board, organising committee, faculty coordinators and participating schools, whose collective efforts contributed to the successful conduct of the conference. The students also presented some cultural performances during the event.
Baramulla, Sep 20: A day-long Science outreach programme was organised by the IQAC and UGC & Research committee in collaboration with Science Department of Government Degree College (GDC) Sopore. As pe the handout issued here, the programme was organised under the supervision of Principal GDC Sopore Prof. (Dr.) Syed Muzaffar Ahmad. The event was organised for higher Secondary School Students of Sopore with the objective of strengthening scientific awareness, encouraging curiosity and inquiry among students, and providing participants with meaningful exposure to science through interaction, inspiration and departmental learning activities. The programme combined formal addresses, inspirational talks besides practical and academic departmental visits. It was followed by feedback and the distribution of participation certificates. Around 56 students from Government Boys Higher Secondary School and Government Girls Higher Secondary School Sopore participated in the event. The programme commenced with the introduction of the Science Outreach Programme by moderator Dr. Nowsheen Hameed, Assistant Professor Department of Biotechnology. Dr. Javeed Ahmad Sheikh Coordinator, IQAC delivered the Welcome Address and welcomed the participants and highlighted the objectives of the outreach programme. Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Syed Muzaffar Ahmad, delivered the Presidential Address in which he provided institutional context to the outreach initiative and emphasised the importance of scientific awareness, academic engagement and meaningful learning opportunities for students. He also encouraged the participants to make constructive use of the opportunities provided through the programme. Invited resource persons delivered inspirational talks and shared real-life experiences. This segment was designed to connect scientific learning with practical experiences and to motivate students to develop curiosity, perseverance and an interest in science. Interaction with resource persons provided participants with an opportunity to appreciate the role of scientific knowledge and learning beyond the classroom. The first resource person Zeeshan, a neuroscience researcher at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), shared his academic and research journey with the students. The second resource person, Dr. Adil Majeed Rather, DST INSPIRE Faculty, NIT Srinagar, shared his personal academic journey and experiences in research, inspiring students to pursue their aspirations with determination and perseverance. The third resource person, Dr. Rahila Nazir, a researcher with postdoctoral research experience at reputed institutions in India and the United States delivered an inspiring message to the students about the importance of ambition, perseverance and self-belief. The fourth resource person, Dr. Javeed Rasool, Postdoctoral Research Associate at Boston University, USA emphasised that academic marks alone do not determine success in life.
Jammu, Mar 8: The Jammu and Kashmir Congress protested against the LPG price hike here on Sunday, saying this "anti-poor" decision by the government will add to the financial burden on the common man. Led by PCC president Tariq Hamid Karra and working president Raman Bhalla, the protesters also criticised the Indo-US trade deal, alleging that it will adversely impact the country's economy, according to a party spokesperson. The protesters gathered in Model Town, Digiana, near here, raised slogans against the ruling BJP and criticised what they described as the government's "surrender" in the Indo-US trade negotiations. The price of domestic cooking gas LPG was hiked on Saturday by a steep Rs 60 per cylinder, the second increase in less than a year, as the spike in global energy rates following the West Asia crisis weighed on the world's third largest energy consumer. Non-subsidised LPG -- the one that common households use in kitchens -- will now cost Rs 913 per 14.2 kg cylinder in Delhi as against Rs 853 previously, according to the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) website. The protesters said the continued rise in the prices of essential commodities, particularly cooking gas, has added to the financial burden on ordinary households. Addressing the protesters, Karra termed the LPG price hike "cruel". Many rural households still do not have access to piped gas supply and rely entirely on LPG cylinders. This will force them to plan their monthly budgets more carefully, he said. He demanded an immediate rollback of the price hike. The Congress leader described the Indo-US trade deal as a "major blow" to the country's economic interests. Instead of safeguarding the nation's economic and strategic priorities, the Centre "bowed to pressure" from the United States, he charged. He also expressed concern over the possible implications of the trade deal on India's agriculture and dairy sectors, and claimed that orchardists and dairy farmers in Jammu and Kashmir will be severely affected if safeguards are not put in place. "Our apple growers, walnut producers and small dairy farmers could face serious challenges if cheap imports enter the market without minimum support guarantees," Karra said. He demanded that the government present a white paper on the trade deal in Parliament. PCC working president Bhalla also strongly condemned the "unprecedented" hike in LPG prices and said poor and middle-class families will be badly affected by this decision of the Union government. He called for an LPG relief package for families belonging to the BPL (below poverty line) category, along with a special subsidy buffer for Jammu and Kashmir, citing the higher transportation and logistics costs in hilly regions. (PTI)
Srinagar, Jan 15: After the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE) declared the result of the class 10th and 12th annual (regular) examinations, the whole focus shifted to the achievers, particularly the toppers. Amidst the appreciation and celebrations for the successful candidates, a stark reality has emerged in society that none of the stakeholders talk about those students who could not pass the examination. This emerging trend has become dangerous for the young students particularly the average performers or those who do not pass the exam in their first attempt. Amid this, a government school teacher has put forth a clear message for the parents of those children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams. Aasima Jan, a government school teacher from Baramulla district said that expectations of the parents should not make the students victim of depression. She believes that the parents must stand by their children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams or qualified it with average grades. After the announcement of the results, some students qualified the exams with good marks in class 10th and 12th exams while qualified with average grades while some could not qualify the exams. "Those parents whose children either took less marks or could not qualify for the exam, must be a little upset with their children. As a parent, it is natural to feel disappointed when your child does not come up to your expectations," Aasima Jan said. She however said that the high expectations of parents should not make the child a victim of depression. "Class 10th exam is just a first step in the educational journey of these children. This is not the end of life. Life will provide more opportunities, with more chances and more ways to excel," Aasima Jan said. She said the parents must support their child at this time deal with this setback. "If parents support their child at this time, their kids will bounce back more stronger in future. Parents must tell their children that failures are not opposite to success but are actually part of success," she said. She said there were many people who did not qualify normal exams but proved their worth in life after facing setbacks. "Parents must put in their efforts. Embrace their child, support them instead of letting them down," she said. As the JKBOSE declared the result of class 10th and 12th class examination, the stakeholders and society at large pour praise and attention on the top performers while there was a deafening silence surrounding those who do not pass the examination. The move raised a serious concern, particularly about the way children are being brought up. It raised big question that: âAre we preparing our students to be strong enough to cope with the failure?â
Srinagar, Oct 21: An executive delegation of the Private Schools Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK), District Anantnag Chapter, Wednesday met Director School Education Kashmir (DSEK) Naseer Ahmad Wani. The delegation was led by Vice President South Kashmir Dr. Zulfiqar Ahmad who was accompanied by President PSAJK Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam. During the meeting, the delegation apprised DSEK of the key bottlenecks faced by private schools and emphasized the need for holistic academic development, streamlined administrative procedures, digitalisation, and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen the educational ecosystem of J&K. The delegation highlighted the need for PARAKH dashboard training and systematic upskilling of private school teachers in accordance with educational zone-wise requirements. It urged the Directorate to facilitate teacher training through DIETs, Resource Centres (RCs), and Cluster Resource Centres (CRCs), enabling private school teachers to benefit from the same capacity-building opportunities available to their government-sector counterparts. The initiative, the delegation stressed, would contribute significantly towards improving foundational literacy and numeracy outcomes in line with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The delegation also raised concerns over the repetitive collection and submission of data and documents by private schools, despite the availability of institutional information on the U-DISE portal. It advocated greater reliance on existing digital databases and the elimination of redundant paperwork. The delegation proposed that, wherever necessary, data verification and collection should be undertaken at the zonal level at intervals of six months, ensuring that administrative requirements do not disrupt academic schedules or classroom activities. DSEK Naseer Ahmad Wani appreciated the concerns and constructive suggestions put forward by the PSAJK delegation and assured that appropriate steps would be considered to do away with outdated, unproductive, and cumbersome administrative practices. He encouraged school leaders to remain passionate and committed to the welfare of students and the parent community, reiterating that both government and private institutions share the common responsibility of imparting quality education to the younger generation. The delegation expressed its gratitude to the DSEK and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir for recognising the private education sector as an important knowledge partner in the educational ecosystem. It appreciated the DSEK's to engage with stakeholders and acknowledge the contribution of private schools towards expanding educational opportunities and strengthening academic outcomes across the Union Territory. The delegation further reiterated that effective coordination between government and private schools, supported by systematic teacher training, digital governance, and reduced administrative duplication, would help realise the goals of NEP 2020 and improve Jammu & Kashmir's overall educational performance, particularly in foundational literacy and numeracy. The PSAJK delegation commended the efforts of the Education Department and the UT Government in advancing educational opportunities and working towards fulfilling the aspirations of millions of students, parents, and other stakeholders. The Director appreciated the proactive engagement and keen interest demonstrated by the PSAJK Anantnag executive body and assured the delegation of continued support and cooperation in addressing genuine concerns and advancing the shared mission of quality education for the younger generation of Jammu & Kashmir. The delegation also included District President Ishfaq Ahmad, District General Secretary Suhail Ahmad, Hilal Ahmed Bhat ( Zonal President Dooru), Shahista Muzaffar (Zonal President Anantnag), Saima( Executive Member) Libni Latoo( Executive Body Member cum spokespersonAnantnag), Fayaz Ahmed ( Zonal President Shangus) Farooq Ahmed ( Executive Body Meber) Mohammad Shafi ( Advisor PSAJK Anantnag).
Awantipora, Oct 20: Police district Awantipora Tuesday organised cyber awareness programmes at Awantipora and Khrew to sensitise participants about cybercrime, online frauds, digital safety and the responsible use of social media. During the programmes, participants were educated about common cyber threats, phishing scams, online financial frauds, the importance of safeguarding personal information and precautionary measures to be adopted while using digital platforms. As per the official handout, participants were also encouraged to report cybercrime incidents promptly through appropriate channels. The programmes aimed to enhance public awareness about emerging cyber threats and promote safe and responsible digital practices among citizens. Awantipora Police reiterated its commitment to public outreach, cyber safety and creating a secure digital environment for the community.
Srinagar, Oct 19: Managing Director of Jay Kay Books, Kashmir, and Kitab Mahal Publishers Sheikh Bashir Ahmad has become the first publisher from Jammu and Kashmir to receive the prestigious Golden Award 2026 of the Federation of Publishersâ and Booksellersâ Associations in India (FPBAI). The award was presented at the federationâs 72nd Annual General Meeting held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi on October 3, in recognition of Ahmadâs longstanding contribution to publishing and his efforts to preserve and promote literature, culture and knowledge. The award was presented by S. K. Ghai, President and Chairman of the FPBAI Award Committee, and Arunjeet Singh Gujral, Vice-President (North) of the federation. Vikas Chowdhary, Honorary Secretary of FPBAI, read out the citation highlighting Ahmadâs contribution to the publishing industry. Describing him as the torchbearer of a six-generation publishing legacy, the citation acknowledged the role of Jay Kay Books in bringing out a wide range of publications covering history, culture, heritage, literature, Sufism, geography, and Indian and Western philosophy. Ahmadâs efforts to ensure continued access to books during the COVID-19 pandemic were also recognised. When conventional access to reading material was severely disrupted, his organisation made e-text modules available free of cost to readers and learners. The initiative was later supplemented by home-delivery services to facilitate access to books. The publishing tradition associated with Ahmadâs family dates back several generations. His ancestor, Sheikh Muhammad Ibrahim, introduced rare Persian manuscripts from Central Asia to Kashmir through a publishing agency based in Lahore. The legacy was subsequently expanded by Sheikh Abdul Ghaffar, who established a publishing outlet at Chattabal in Srinagar. Sheikh Ghulam Muhammad later developed the venture into a full-fledged publishing house at Maharaj Gunj. Continuing the familyâs publishing tradition through Jay Kay Books, Ahmad has worked to promote reading, encourage emerging writers and make important books and manuscripts accessible to scholars, students and general readers. The recognition marks a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmirâs publishing sector, acknowledging Ahmadâs contribution to the book trade as well as his efforts to safeguard the regionâs literary and intellectual heritage.
Srinagar, Oct 15:Â Bandipora Deputy Commissioner Indu Chhib on Thursday said a probe has been ordered against a doctor in connection with the death of a pregnant woman from the remote Gurez valley, and assured strict action against those found responsible. Addressing a press conference, Indu Chhib said the administration has ordered an inquiry against the doctor. Strict action will be taken against whoever is found responsible, she told reporters. She said compensation had been provided to the bereaved family through the Red Cross. The woman died while being shifted to the District Hospital in Bandipora early Wednesday, while her baby was stillborn. Her family has alleged that snowfall and restrictions on night-time movement delayed her emergency referral. The incident has triggered anger in the remote Gurez valley, with locals demanding accountability over the alleged delay in medical evacuation.
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.
