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.
Says Indiaâs water resources will now be utilised for Indiaâs development Srinagar, Jan 26: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha on Monday said that Indiaâs response to terrorism was rational, restrained, rooted in legitimate right to self-defence. In his address at the 77th Republic Day in Jammu, LG Manoj Sinha aid that terrorist networks will be completely neutralized whether they operate across the border or within it. "India has firmly drawn a new red line. The success of Operation Sindoor has instilled renewed confidence among citizens that our brave soldiers remain vigilant and fully committed to their protection," he said. He said Operation Sindoor sent a clear signal to the international community that Indiaâs actions are rational, restrained, and rooted in its legitimate right to self-defence. "Whether terrorist networks operate across the border or within it, they will be completely neutralized," he said. He said that Operation Sindoor continues, with every hostile move being closely monitored. "As part of non-kinetic measures, India has terminated the Indus Water Treaty, delivering a strong message that bloodshed and cooperation cannot coexist," he said. He said that Indiaâs water resources will now be utilized for Indiaâs development. "I express my sincere gratitude to all members of the armed forces, police, paramilitary units, and civil administration who upheld the nationâs pride through their duty, dedication, and bravery during Operation Sindoor," he said. He said that following the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Operation Sindoor emerged as a defining moment in Indiaâs national security doctrine. "India made it unequivocally clear that any terrorist attack on its soil would be treated as an act of war. Operation Sindoor was not merely a military action; it was a declaration of Indiaâs strategic resolve," LG Manoj Sinha said. "We struck at the heart of the enemy, dismantled their terror infrastructure, exposed the hollowness of nuclear threats, and reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to protecting national sovereignty," he said. LG Sinha said that through Operation Sindoor, India conveyed to the world that every act of terrorism and every attempt to support it will be met with a decisive response. He paid heartfelt tributes to all civilians who lost their lives in the Pahalgam terrorist attack. "I also commend the personnel of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, and the Indian Army who, through Operation Mahadev, eliminated the three Pakistani terrorists involved in the attack and delivered justice for the dignity of our mothers and sisters," he said. He appreciated the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) for uncovering a nationwide terror network last November and preventing several attacks in time. "They are Indiaâs true heroes, and I am proud of them. With deep respect and gratitude, I honour the martyrs of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, paramilitary forces, and the Army," he said. LG Sinha said the entire nation remains indebted to JK security forces and their families while their sacrifices will never be forgotten. "I also offer my heartfelt condolences to the police and civil administration personnel who lost their lives in the unfortunate accidental explosion in Nowgam," he said. He said the debt owed to those who secured peace and progress in Jammu and Kashmir with their blood can never be repaid. "On this solemn occasion, we must pledge to remember their sacrifice and fulfill their dream of a peaceful, fearless, and developed Jammu and Kashmir," LG Sinha said.
Srinagar, Jan 26: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor on Monday said that J&K's education sector was witnessing path-breaking reforms to ensure effective, efficient, and comprehensive implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP). In his address at the 77th Republic Day, LG Sinha said that these collective efforts are expected to lay a strong foundation for a knowledge-driven economy. "The younger generation is being equipped with next-generation skills through initiatives such as College on Wheels, entrepreneurship programmes, promotion of startup culture, and engineering kitchens," LG Sinha said. He said that over 15,550 schools have introduced preprimary education while 1.41 lakh students from Classes 9th to 12th have been enrolled in vocational courses to inculcate scientific temper and skill orientation. "Under the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) Yojana, approval has been accorded for the upgradation of 396 schools in the first phase," he said. He further said that Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK) has been established and made operational to enable data-driven decisionmaking and improve learning outcomes. "The Government is also planning to launch JK ePathshala, a dedicated TV channel to broadcast free, curriculum-based educational content in local languages, accessible to students across the UT," he said. LG Sinha further said that as many as 172 Atal Tinkering Laboratories (ATL) have already been established, with 500 more under implementation under the Atal Innovation Mission of NITI Aayog. "In addition, 1,420 Computer-Aided Learning (CAL) Centres and 1,588 ICT labs have been established, while 1,512 ICT labs and 4,000 smart classrooms are under various stages of establishment," he said. He said that that records of 34.50 lakh students of Classes 10th, 11th and 12th have been uploaded on DigiLocker by JKBOSE as part of the digital transformation initiative. "To address gender gaps in literacy, special emphasis is being laid on girlsâ education. Residential facilities with free boarding, lodging, and stipends are being provided to over 5,000 girl students of Classes 6th to 8th in 89 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs)," LG Sinha said. He said that at present, 28 Gujjar and Bakerwal/Scheduled Tribe hostels were operational across J&K UT, accommodating 2895 students and providing free boarding, lodging, and education to BPL students from Class 6th onwards. "Additionally, 26 new hostels are under construction across various districts, of which 10 are nearing completion and are expected to become functional during 2025â26," he said. He further said that University of Jammu (JU) and the University of Kashmir (KU) were accredited with A++ grade by NAAC. "Additionally, 74 Government Degree Colleges have received NAAC accreditation, and sustained efforts are underway to ensure accreditation of all colleges to enhance quality in higher education," he said. He said that emphasis was also being laid on research and innovation for which the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations (CIRI) at the University of Kashmir has secured a mega Indo-US research grant under the SPARC Scheme. "Similarly, the University of Jammu Research Fund (UoJRF) has been established to strengthen research activities across disciplines," he said.
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.
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
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.
Srinagar, Jan 25:Â Bringing laurels, Senior Under Officer (SUO) Arpun Deep Kour of 3 J&K BN of National Cadet Corps (NCC) from Baramulla was awarded with the prestigious Raksha Mantri Padak by Defence Minister of India Rajnath Singh. She was felicitated during the ongoing Republic Day Camp (RDC)-2026 at New Delhi. Kour has been honoured for her exemplary duty, service and discipline displayed during Operation Sindoor where she coordinated and executed relief activities in Baramulla district for displaced population of border villages of North Kashmir. She provided timely assistance and relief to them with compassion and dignity. Her selfless leadership during this period exemplified the values of discipline, teamwork, humanitarian service and keeping âNation Firstâ even at the cost of own comfort. Her impeccable conduct, patience, sincerity, and dedication to noble causes has inspired NCC Cadets to build a better future for themselves and for the nation. "Through her outstanding contribution, SUO Arpun Deep Kour has not only upheld but also enhanced the prestige of the National Cadet Corps and the entire Kashmir Valley," the official handout reads
Srinagar, Jan 25: Eminent Kashmiri scholar, poet, linguist and translator Prof Shafi Shauq on Sunday was named among the recipients of the Padma Shri Award 2026, Indiaâs fourth-highest civilian honour, for his outstanding contribution to education, language and literature. Expressing happiness over the recognition, Prof Shauq said it was a moment of great joy to see his name among those who have truly made a difference in society. âI have received many awards and honours in the past, but the Padma Shri is given to very few individuals who have excelled in different fields of life. Being counted among them is a matter of immense pride,â he said. He said that he was informed early in the morning over phone and that the officials were well aware of his literary work and books. âI never wrote for awards or recognition. I simply accepted whatever came my way,â he added. Prof Shauq has authored dozens of books in English and Kashmiri, including works on poetry, history, dictionaries and grammars. He has also received several international awards for his poetic contributions. âThis honour holds a special place as his name now stands alongside legendary literary figures such as Akhtar Mohiuddin and Rehman Rahi, who were earlier conferred with the Padma Shri,â he said. With academic background in science and English, Prof Shauq devoted over five decades to Kashmiri language and literature. He served as a professor at the University of Kashmir for more than three decades, teaching Kashmiri literature and guiding students and research scholars. âIf my work helps students and researchers, that itself is a great achievement for me,â he said. He highlighted the importance of documenting indigenous knowledge, noting that he frequently receives queries from across the country and abroad about Kashmiri names of plants, flowers and insects. âLanguages are shaped by such knowledge. Poetry is important, but research and information-based writing are equally essential,â he added. He reaffirmed his love for poetry and said his recent focus has been on comprehensive scholarly works, including books on the history of the Kashmiri language. âPeople read these works, and that gives me happiness. I encourage poets to write what they know and contribute something meaningful for future generations,â he said. Prof Shauq urged the young writers them to move beyond poetry alone and engage with research-based writing. âWriters often complain that people donât read them. My question isâare you writing something that people feel the need to read?â he said, encouraging authors to write on subjects like flora, fauna, environment and local knowledge. (KNO)
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.
