Banihal, Jul 6: The Chief Education Officer (CEO) Ramban on Monday placed the whole staff of Government Middle School (GMS), Krawah in Zone Banihal, under suspension after a student was reportedly found locked inside the classroom for several hours. In wake of this, the authorities also ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident. According to an official order issued by the CEO Ramban, the incident occurred on July 4, 2026, when a student was reportedly found locked inside the school building at around 8:00 pm, after school hours and before the commencement of the summer vacation. The order reads that it was a case of prima facie gross negligence and dereliction of duty on the part of the officials responsible for the safety and supervision of students. "Such negligence has the potential to endanger the life and safety of the child," it reads. Pending the outcome of the inquiry, all employees of Government Middle School, Krawah, Zone Banihal, have been placed under suspension with immediate effect under Rule 31 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956. During the suspension period. During the suspension period, the  employees will remain attached to the same school until further orders. The CEO has also constituted a three-member inquiry committee comprising , Principal, HSS Girls Banihal (Chairperson) , Zonal Education Officer, Banihal and Headmaster, High School Bankoot. The committee has been directed to conduct a thorough and impartial inquiry into the circumstances leading to the incident, fix responsibility for the lapse, and submit a detailed report along with its recommendations to the CEO's office within three days. The action has been taken to ensure accountability and reinforce student safety in educational institutions across the district.

Srinagar, Jul 5: The University of Kashmir Sunday organised a flag-off ceremony for its National Youth Parliament Team, which is proceeding to New Delhi to receive the prestigious National Championship Award in the 17th National Youth Parliament Competition (2025–26) at Parliament House, the highest democratic institution of the country. The University contingent, comprising 50 students, is led by Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer and Coordinator, National Youth Parliament, who has mentored and guided the championship-winning team throughout the competition. In her message, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nilofer Khan said "The triumph of our students in the National Youth Parliament Competition is a celebration of knowledge, leadership and democratic values. Their recognition at the Parliament of India, the temple of our democracy, is not merely an award but a powerful affirmation that the youth of Kashmir possess the vision, intellect and confidence to contribute to the nation's future. This historic achievement will inspire generations of students to dream bigger, think deeper and lead with integrity. On behalf of the entire University fraternity, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and wish the team continued success as proud ambassadors of the University of Kashmir." Registrar, Prof. Naseer Iqbal: said "This remarkable accomplishment reflects the culture of excellence, discipline and perseverance that defines the University of Kashmir. Our students have demonstrated that with dedication and commitment, no goal is beyond reach. Being honoured at the Parliament of India is a rare distinction and a proud milestone in the University's journey. I congratulate  every member of the team and appreciate the tireless efforts of the mentor whose guidance transformed talent into national excellence. May this achievement ignite greater aspirations among our youth to serve society and strengthen the democratic fabric of our nation." The flag-off ceremony was conducted by Prof. Majid Zaman, Controller of Examinations, in the presence of Prof. Pervez Ahmad, Dean, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, and Prof. Seema Singh, Dean Students' Welfare. Prof. Imtiyaz Ahmed, Chief Proctor, Faculty members, university officials, students, and parents of the winning students  gathered to extend their best wishes to the team for this momentous national recognition. Addressing the gathering, Prof. Majid Zaman congratulated the students on their remarkable achievement and said: "This accomplishment is a matter of immense pride for the University of Kashmir and the entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Being honoured at Parliament House reflects the dedication, discipline and intellectual excellence of our students. I wish the team every success and hope they continue to inspire future generations." Prof. Seema Singh, Dean Students' Welfare, described the occasion as a historic milestone for the University. She said: "Our students have demonstrated exceptional talent, confidence, and democratic values through their outstanding performance. Their national recognition is a testament to the University's commitment to nurturing leadership, responsible citizenship, and holistic development. We are immensely proud of their achievement." Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Pervez Ahmad, Dean School of Earth and Environmental Sciences said: "The Youth Parliament platform equips students with a deep understanding of democratic institutions, constitutional values and public policy. This national honour showcases the academic excellence and leadership potential of our students, and I congratulate every member of the team for bringing laurels to the University." Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer and Coordinator, National Youth Parliament, expressed gratitude to the University administration for its unwavering support and said: "This achievement is the result of months of rigorous preparation, teamwork and commitment displayed by our students. Receiving the National Championship Award at Parliament House is a rare honour and a defining moment in the University's history. We dedicate this success to the University of Kashmir and remain committed to inspiring more students to participate in nation-building through democratic engagement." The University community expressed confidence that the team would represent the institution with dignity and distinction while receiving the National Championship Award at Parliament House, New Delhi, bringing further glory to the University of Kashmir.  

Leh, Jul 4: A transformative two-day career seminar, aimed at guiding students from the Union Territory of Ladakh towards premier institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the National Defence Academy (NDA), concluded on Friday. The event, held across two separate towns in Leh and Kargil, drew a large and enthusiastic turnout of students from across the UT. Organised by the Career Defence School, the seminar was spearheaded by founder and CEO Er. Vinay Rai, alongside Administrative Officer Er. Gagan Wadhwa. The programme was coordinated by Khan Jahangeer, Amir Suhail ensuring the sessions resonated with the unique aspirations of Ladakh’s youth. The Leh segment of the seminar was graced by ADC to Lieutenant Governor, Shiekh Adil, alongside the District Planning Officer, DIET Principal S.D. Namgail, and Anchay Yagdol HOD DIET. In Kargil, the event saw the participation of President of the Private Schools Association, Murtaza Khaleli, and In-charge Chief Education Officer, Dr. Sarwar.Shahzad (KAS) who attended as esteemed guests. Addressing the students in Leh, Shiekh Adil delivered an inspiring address saying that failures are not the end of the career. "After every hardship, there is success. If hardships become your excuse, the first casualty will be your goal," he said. He emphasized the growing importance of competitive education and advised students to build confidence, improve communication skills, and remain consistent in their efforts. DIET Principal S.D. Namgail lauded the initiative, calling it a “meaningful program” that would equip students with the necessary awareness to compete on national platforms and seize career opportunities they might not have otherwise considered. In Kargil, Murtaza Khaleli stressed the need for dedication, hard work, and moral values in student life. He highlighted the importance of education, discipline, and critical thinking, urging students to channel their energy toward constructive goals and stay away from negativity. Talking to the media, Er. Vinay Rai expressed his confidence in the potential of Ladakhi students.  “Students from Leh and Kargil possess immense talent. They only require proper guidance, discipline, and exposure to shine on the national stage,” he said. “Career Defence School is fully committed to preparing students for competitive exams like JEE Mains, NEET, RIMC, and NDA, while simultaneously focusing on personality development, leadership, and nation-building.” The seminar featured detailed question-and-answer sessions in both locations, during which students actively raised queries regarding NDA eligibility, IIT entrance preparation, hostel facilities, scholarships, physical fitness requirements, and the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence in modern career paths. The career awareness sessions were conducted in close collaboration with the Education Department of the Union Territory, underscoring a collective effort to empower the youth of Ladakh.

Srinagar, June 28: The School Education Department (SED) has released the Draft Transfer Policy-2026 and initiated the process for rolling out the Annual Transfer Drive (ATD)-2026, paving the way for a comprehensive, online and merit-based transfer exercise for its teaching fraternity across Jammu and Kashmir. The draft policy, placed in the public domain for 15 days, invites comments, suggestions and objections from stakeholders before its formal notification. It marks the department's third structured transfer exercise after similar drives conducted in 2023 and 2024. The draft has been uploaded on the official websites of the School Education Department to ensure transparency and wider public participation in finalising the policy. According to the draft, the proposed policy aims to establish a transparent, fair and accountable framework for transfers and postings of teachers, masters, lecturers, headmasters, principals, Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs), Chief Education Officers (CEOs) and equivalent officers across the Union Territory. "The proposed policy seeks to ensure equitable deployment of staff, particularly in remote and underserved areas, while maintaining uninterrupted academic functioning and keeping students' interests at the centre of the transfer process," the draft reads. Transfers will ordinarily be processed through a dedicated Online Transfer Portal, with the Annual Transfer Drive scheduled to be completed before the commencement of every academic session. However, the policy also allows offline transfers in exceptional administrative circumstances with the approval of the competent authority. The draft introduces a revised zonal tenure system by categorising schools into five zones based on accessibility. Employees posted in Zones I, II and III will ordinarily serve three years in a school, while those serving in the more difficult Zones IV and V will have tenures of two years and one year, respectively. Employees completing their tenure in inaccessible Zone-V areas will be given preference for postings in comparatively accessible locations. To address disparities in staff distribution, the policy proposes rationalisation and redeployment of surplus teachers based on pupil-teacher ratio, student enrolment, subject requirements and institutional needs. It, however, stipulates that no rationalisation exercise should leave any institution without adequate teaching staff or adversely affect classroom instruction. The draft identifies five categories of transfers—general, mutual, administrative, compassionate and special rotational transfers. Compassionate transfers may be considered in cases involving severe medical conditions, benchmark disabilities, widowhood, safety concerns and other humanitarian grounds, subject to documentary verification. The policy also proposes special provisions for government-employed spouses, women employees, single parents, widows, divorcees, employees nearing retirement and persons with benchmark disabilities. Employees aged 58 years and above would ordinarily not be posted to the most difficult Zones IV and V. The draft also provides for inter-cadre transfers under specified circumstances, including marriage and exceptional medical or security grounds. A key feature of the proposed policy is the introduction of a Transfer Assessment Matrix (TAM)—an online point-based merit system that allocates weightage for service in difficult areas, age, disability, spouse posting, outstanding academic performance, national and UT-level teacher awards, serious illness, proximity to retirement and caregiving responsibilities to objectively determine transfer priority. The draft also lays down an indicative annual transfer calendar. Vacancies will be published in April, applications invited in May, merit lists and representations processed in June, and transfer orders issued during June and July. To address transfer-related disputes, the policy proposes a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism at the institutional, district and Union Territory levels, with representations to be ordinarily disposed of within 15 days. However, the proposed policy will not apply to Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) and Regularised Rehbar-e-Taleem (RReT) teachers, whose appointments remain school-specific unless separate government orders are issued. An official said the ATD has been revived following the successful implementation of similar exercises in 2023 and 2024, with the objective of making teacher transfers more transparent, equitable and technology-driven while strengthening accountability and improving human resource management in SED.

Srinagar, June 25: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has added another feather to its cap as two of its distinguished faculty members were honoured at the prestigious IEI J&K Women in Engineering Awards 2026, organized by The Institution of Engineers (India), J&K State Centre, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to engineering, research, innovation, mentorship, administration, and academic excellence. The awards were presented during the celebration of International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2026, marked by a one-day seminar on the theme “Engineering Intelligence” at the IEI Srinagar Centre. Among the awardees from NIT Srinagar, Dr. Fatima Jalid, MIE, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, was conferred with the Gold Award Certificate, securing First Rank under the Emerging Woman Engineer Award category. She was recognized for her outstanding achievements and significant contributions to the field of engineering. Her dedication to academic excellence, impactful research, innovation, student mentorship, and institutional administration has earned her wide recognition and brought immense pride to the Institute. In the same category, Dr. Janani L., MIE, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, secured Second Rank and received the Silver Award Certificate. The honour was conferred in recognition of her commendable contributions to engineering education, research, and professional development in civil engineering. Dr. Janani has consistently contributed to academic growth, research initiatives, and student mentorship, inspiring young engineers to pursue excellence and innovation. The Silver Award was received on her behalf by her parents, M. Lekshmipathy and S. Santhi, who accepted the honour with pride.

Srinagar, June 22: National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar Monday organised a seminar titled “The Power Sector in India: Addressing Emerging Challenges in the Power Sector, Sustainable Energy Development, Loss Minimization, Workforce Adequacy with Special Reference to the J&K System. The event was organised by Dean Alumni and International Affairs under the Alumni Back to Classroom (ABC) initiative and was held at Hi-Tech 5 which brought together alumni, faculty members, engineers, and students for an in-depth discussion on India’s evolving power sector and the specific challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir. The event was presided over by Mrs. Rao, Former Professor of Delhi University, and coordinated by Dr. H. S. Pali (Civil Eng, NIT Srinagar.) The first technical session was delivered by Er. K. Ashok Rao, an alumnus from the early batches of NIT Srinagar. Recalling the Institution’s early years in the 1960s, Er Rao highlighted the challenges students faced due to limited laboratory infrastructure, forcing them to travel to other institutions such as Thapar University for practical training. He traced the evolution of India’s power sector from conventional fossil-fuel-based steam generation to modern and diversified energy systems. Er Rao also discussed the limitations of early solar-thermal technologies and stressed the importance of achieving energy self-sufficiency in India. The second technical session was presented by Er. Peerzada Hidayatullah, Assistant Engineer, JKPDD, and Vice Chairman of AIPEF, who focused on the power sector challenges in Jammu and Kashmir. He outlined the historical growth of the J&K Power Development Department and highlighted major achievements in electricity infrastructure expansion from 1988 to 2026, including the electrification of far-flung areas such as Ladakh and Kargil. Er Hidayatullah said that Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses in Jammu and Kashmir have reduced substantially from nearly 75–80 percent in 1988 to around 30–35 percent in 2026. He also spoke about expanding transformer capacity, increasing solar power integration, and sustaining engineering efforts to curb power theft. Earlier, Dean AIA, Prof. M. A. Shah said that energy demand in the coming decade is expected to rise significantly, making discussions on sustainable energy and power-sector reforms highly relevant for students, engineers, and policymakers alike. He emphasized the importance of strengthening alumni engagement with the institute, stating that initiatives like ABC help reconnect former students with their alma mater and create opportunities for mentorship, professional guidance, and career growth for current students, especially those from modest backgrounds. In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, said that the power sector is undergoing a transformational phase driven by technological advancements, renewable energy integration and rising energy demand. He said academic institutions like NIT Srinagar have a crucial role in preparing future engineers to address challenges related to sustainability, grid resilience, and energy efficiency. Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman emphasized the importance of industry-academia collaboration in addressing real-world challenges in critical sectors such as power and energy. He lauded the efforts of the Dean Alumni and International Affairs office for organizing impactful academic interactions under the ABC initiative. A documentary on the first Electrical Power Station of Mohra was also screened during the event. On behalf of the Alumni Association, Er. Farhan Manzoor felicitated dozens of Electrical Engineers, including Gold Medalist Er. Hurayasrab (AEE). During the programme, Mr Anand Prakash (Physics)- shared his inspiring journey from Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, to NIT Srinagar, highlighting how education transformed his life and enabled upward social mobility. The guest speakers, including Er. K. Ashok Rao, Er. Peerzada Hidayatullah and other engineers from JKPDD were felicitated by Prof. M. A. Shah for their valuable contributions. The event was efficiently hosted and coordinated by Aswa Shah, Master’s Intern, who conducted the proceedings and presented a formal vote of thanks to dignitaries. Students from Crescent Public School, G.D. Goenka, Green Valley, and Kashmir Harvard also attended the seminar.

Baramulla, June 21: Aarifeen School of Excellence (ASE), Baramulla, has achieved a historic milestone by emerging as the top-performing school in Kashmir in the prestigious 26th Annual All J&K UT Level Talent Search Test 2025 conducted by Newlight Education & Environmental Service Foundation (NEESF-NEES). In a remarkable achievement, ten students from ASE secured top positions at the Union Territory level, with two students emerging as UT toppers in their respective grades. The outstanding performance has established Aarifeen School of Excellence as the first school from North Kashmir to achieve this distinction in the highly competitive NEESF-NEES examination. Leading the honours was Anabia Nawaz of Grade 1, who secured the first position across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, earning the prestigious Gold Medal among participants from 644 schools. She was felicitated by Education Minister Sakina Itoo at SKICC Srinagar. Adding to the school's glory, Sheikh Fatima Zubair of Grade 1 secured 7th position in the Union Territory. In Grade 2, Noor ul Haq secured 7th position, Ummarah Bint Hilal secured 11th position, and Ahmad Yehya secured 17th position across the Union Territory. In Grade 3, Mohd Aman Khan secured 13th position, Mohammad Uzair Malik secured 14th position, and Mohd Ahmad secured 16th position across the Union Territory. In Grade 4, Mohd Ayaan Lone secured 1st position and emerged as the UT topper, while in Grade 5, Afhaam Hussain secured 13th position across the Union Territory. Congratulating the students, parents and teachers, Dr. Hanan Khalid Khan, Principal, Aarifeen School of Excellence, said the achievement reflects the school's commitment to nurturing talent through innovative and activity-based learning. "Our students have not only excelled at the UT level but have also emerged as the highest-performing learners in Kashmir. This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication of our teachers, the support of parents, and the effectiveness of our child-centric curriculum. We are proud that ASE has become the first school from North Kashmir to top the NEESF-NEES examination and produce UT-level gold medalists," he said. Aafreen Farooq, Curriculum Head, said the results reflect the strength of ASE's inquiry-based and experiential learning model. "When learning is meaningful and engaging, excellence follows naturally. Our students' success demonstrates that conceptual understanding and critical thinking are far more powerful than rote memorisation," she said. School Coordinator Asma Sadiq said the achievement highlights the effectiveness of the school's activity-based curriculum. "Our learners excelled without any special coaching because the classroom itself prepares them for competitive challenges. This is the true strength of quality education," she said. Parents also expressed immense pride in the achievement. Mother of Anabia Nawaz, the UT topper, said: "This achievement is a proud moment for our family. We are grateful to ASE for nurturing curiosity, confidence and independent thinking in our child. The school's holistic approach to learning has played a pivotal role in her success." Parents of Mohammad Amaan Khan said: "What makes this achievement special is that it came without any extra coaching. ASE's classroom learning alone empowered our child to compete and excel at the UT level." The achievement adds to ASE's growing list of accomplishments. Earlier this year, the school secured 165 Gold Medals in the International Olympiad 2025, including multiple national-level distinctions. The ASE fraternity expressed gratitude to students, parents and educators whose collective efforts have helped the institution emerge as a centre of excellence in both academic and non-academic domains.

Srinagar, June 18: In a significant achievement for Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Misba Rehman, a PhD scholar in the Faculty of Fisheries, has secured an international research grant of US$6,500 from the US-based Wild Animal Initiative. The grant will support the project, “Assessing Behavioural and Physiological Welfare Indicators for the Kashmir Loach (Triplophysa kashmirensis),” led by Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq as Principal Investigator, with Misba Rehman as lead applicant. The study focuses on generating scientific evidence on the welfare indicators of the critically endangered Kashmir Loach, an endemic fish species of Kashmir, to support science-based conservation and management strategies. Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai congratulated Misba Rehman and Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq, stating that the achievement reflects the growing global recognition of research at SKUAST-K and strengthens the university’s commitment to impactful research and biodiversity conservation. Dean, Faculty of Fisheries, Prof. Farooz Ahmad Bhat, described the grant as a major accomplishment, noting that the project addresses an important yet understudied area of fish welfare and conservation. Echoing these views, Head Division of Fisheries Resource Management, Dr Tasaduq Hussain Shah, said that the international funding reflects the scientific merit and growing relevance of the research being undertaken by the Division. Additionally, Dr Syed Talia Mushtaq emphasized that the project will generate critical baseline data to support the conservation of threatened Himalayan freshwater species. Expressing gratitude, Misba Rehman acknowledged the support of the university and her supervisor, stating that the grant will enable innovative research to better understand the conservation and welfare needs of the Kashmir Loach. The award further underscores SKUAST-K’s growing international recognition in biodiversity conservation and sustainable aquatic resource research.

Srinagar, June 15: A series of national scholarship programmes offering financial assistance ranging from ₹20,000 to full tuition fee coverage have opened applications for students pursuing higher education in engineering, management, technology and other professional courses across the country. Among the major schemes, the Bharti Airtel Scholarship 2026-27 will provide 100 per cent annual course fee coverage, hostel and mess charges, and laptops to selected students enrolled in top engineering institutions. The scholarship is open to first-year students admitted to undergraduate and integrated programmes in technology-related fields, including artificial intelligence, robotics, data science and aerospace, with family income not exceeding ₹8 lakh annually. The IDFC FIRST Bank MBA Scholarship Program 2026-28 will provide financial support of ₹2 lakh to eligible first-year MBA students from families with annual incomes of up to ₹6 lakh. The assistance will be disbursed over two years to help students pursue management education without financial constraints. For students aspiring to pursue emerging technology courses, the uGSOT Scholarship Program 2026 by upGrad School of Technology offers merit-based and need-based scholarships, including fee waivers of up to 100 per cent. The programme targets Class 12 science students seeking admission in Computer Science specialisations such as Generative AI and Machine Learning, Quantum Computing and Full Stack Development. Another major initiative, the Eastman Powerup Eduskill Scholarship Program 2026-27, has invited applications from engineering, management and diploma students. The programme offers financial assistance of up to ₹20,000 linked to the successful completion of industry-relevant certification courses. Preference will be given to female students, persons with disabilities, students from single-parent households and those belonging to Tier-II and Tier-III cities. The scholarship list also includes the Masters’ Union Scholarship Aptitude Test 2026, which offers tuition fee waivers ranging from 10 to 80 per cent for students pursuing undergraduate programmes in business management, technology, data science, artificial intelligence, sustainability and related disciplines. In addition, the WINGS – Women Inspiring Growth in STEM Scholarship Program has been launched for female undergraduate students at IIT Bombay pursuing STEM disciplines. The programme provides full tuition fee support and seeks to encourage greater participation of women in science and technology education. The document also mentions the vivo Punjab Vidya Setu Scholarship Program 2026, which offers scholarships of ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 to economically weaker undergraduate students studying in government and government-aided colleges in Punjab and Chandigarh. Most of the scholarship schemes are being administered through online application portals, with deadlines falling between June and July 2026. The programmes are aimed at reducing financial barriers to higher education and promoting access to professional and technical courses for students from economically weaker sections. Education experts said such initiatives could significantly enhance access to quality higher education, particularly for students from low-income families, while encouraging enrolment in emerging technology and management disciplines.

Srinagar June 05: The Department of English University of Kashmir (KU), commenced a two-day international conference on “Climate Action, Sustainability and Literature: The Ecosophical Proximity in the Contemporary Anthropocentric Epoch” in collaboration with the Ecosophical Foundation for the Study of Literature and Environment at the Main Campus. The conference aims to examine the intersections of literature, environmental thought and sustainability, while promoting interdisciplinary dialogue on climate change, ecological responsibility and the role of the humanities in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. Speaking at the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, highlighted the importance of academic engagement with pressing ecological concerns. “Climate change is no longer a distant possibility but a lived reality. Universities have a responsibility to encourage critical reflection and generate knowledge that contributes to environmental awareness, sustainable practices and informed public discourse,” she said. She added that literature and the humanities offer valuable perspectives for understanding the human dimensions of environmental crises and can play a meaningful role in shaping ecological consciousness. Vice-Chancellor, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, in his address, highlighted the need for integrating scientific understanding with policy interventions and governance frameworks to address the challenges posed by climate change. He emphasized that sustainable development requires coordinated efforts involving academia, policymakers, communities and institutions working towards long-term environmental resilience. Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary research and academic collaborations in advancing discussions on sustainability and environmental stewardship. President, EFSLE, Dr. Rishikesh Kumar, spoke about the growing relevance of ecosophical approaches in literary and cultural studies. Earlier, in his welcome address, Head, Department of English KU, Prof. Mufti Mudasir Farooqi, outlined the objectives of the conference and said the event seeks to create a platform for scholars, researchers and practitioners to deliberate on contemporary ecological issues through literary, cultural and interdisciplinary perspectives. The two-day conference includes a keynote lecture by Prof. Diana J. Fox, Department of Anthropology, Bridgewater State University USA, plenary talks, technical sessions and paper presentations by scholars and researchers from India and abroad, focusing on climate action, sustainability, environmental humanities, ecocriticism and related themes. The proceedings of the inaugural session were conducted by Prof. Iffat Maqbool, faculty, Department of English KU.

Srinagar, June 4: The Directorate of Information Technology & Support Systems (IT&SS), University of Kashmir, in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), organized a One-Day Awareness Programme on Digital Signature and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) at the University of Kashmir. The programme witnessed participation from officers of the Jammu & Kashmir Police, CID, NIELIT, SKUAST, Industry experts, Faculty members, Students, Research scholars, and officials of the University of Kashmir, reflecting the growing importance of secure digital practices across sectors. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Maroof Qadri, Director IT&SS, highlighted the critical role of Digital Signatures and Public Key Infrastructure in strengthening digital governance, cybersecurity, and trusted electronic transactions. Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, Dean Academic Affairs, University of Kashmir, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, emphasized the need for awareness and capacity building in cybersecurity and secure digital technologies. The technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Mohammed Misbahuddin, Scientist-F, C-DAC Bengaluru; Dr. Balaji Rajendran, Associate Director, C-DAC Bengaluru; and Mr. Shamsuddin Khan, Assistant Controller (Technology), Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), MeitY, Government of India. The experts deliberated on Digital Signatures, Public Key Infrastructure, electronic authentication, digital trust, and secure digital communications. The programme provided a valuable platform for participants to enhance their understanding of technologies that form the foundation of trust, security, and authenticity in the digital ecosystem.

Srinagar June 02: A first-of-its-kind three-day Advanced School of Antenna (ASA) 2026 concluded at the University of Kashmir (KU). The programme was organised by KU in collaboration with the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, IEEE AP-S/CRFID Delhi Chapter and IEEE AP-S/MTT-S, Kolkata Chapter, on the theme “Antennas in Biomedical and Biotelemetry Devices.” The three-day programme aimed to promote knowledge exchange and advance research at the intersection of antenna engineering and healthcare technologies by bringing together leading experts, researchers, faculty members and students from across the country. Speaking at the valedictory session, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, congratulated the organisers for bringing the prestigious international programme to the University and highlighted the growing importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing contemporary healthcare and technological challenges. "ASA 2026 provided an excellent platform for researchers, faculty members and students to engage with leading experts and emerging innovations in antenna technologies and biomedical applications," she said. Dean, School of Engineering KU, Prof. Mohammad Tariq Banday, and Incharge Director, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Roohie Naaz, emphasized the importance of collaborative research and academic partnerships in advancing emerging technologies and fostering innovation-driven learning. Head, Department of Electronics & Instrumentation Technology, KU, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Khanday, said that the event created valuable opportunities for participants to interact with internationally renowned experts and gain insights into contemporary developments in antenna design and biomedical applications. Prof. Omar Ramahi, University of Waterloo, Canada, and Prof. Mahesh Abegaonkar, IIT Delhi and Chairman, IEEE AP-S Delhi Chapter, spoke on the recent advances in antenna technologies and stressed on the need for sustained research efforts to address emerging challenges in biomedical and wireless communication systems. Earlier, in his welcome address, Organising Secretary Dr. Javaid Ahmad Sheikh, faculty at the Department of Electronics & Instrumentation Technology, KU, outlined the objectives of the programme and highlighted its focus on bridging fundamental research with real-world healthcare applications. The three-day programme featured keynote lectures, technical sessions and expert discussions on various dimensions of antenna engineering, biomedical devices, biotelemetry systems and emerging wireless technologies. The proceedings of the valedictory session were conducted by Organising Secretary Dr. Javaid Ahmad Sheikh. Earlier the inaugural session, held at the Ibn-e-Khaldun Auditorium, was attended by Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada; Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal; Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar; Prof. Omar Ramahi, University of Waterloo, Canada; Prof. Mahesh Abegaonkar, Chairman, IEEE AP-S Delhi Chapter; Dean, School of Engineering KU, Prof. Mohammad Tariq Banday; besides heads of departments, faculty members, researchers and students from KU and NIT Srinagar.