Bandipora, Jul 8: Entrepreneur Jibran Khan, founder of the Zero Miles restaurant chain, on Wednesday shared his inspirational journey from menial jobs to building a successful enterprise, urging youngsters to embrace entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities for others. The interactive session, titled 'Nun Chai Talks', was organised by the District Administration Bandipora at the Waqar Knowledge Centre and witnessed enthusiastic participation from students of HKM Degree College Bandipora, HSS Mantrigam, and youth from across the district. Khan, who started with a single outlet in Sopore in 2017 and now operates six franchise locations across North Kashmir employing 60 people, candidly spoke about his early struggles, including washing dishes and doing odd jobs. "I ran from pillar to post in search of a job and I don't want young ones to suffer like that," Khan said, explaining his motivation to create employment avenues. After completing his Class 12 in tourism, Khan worked with multinational companies in Chandigarh and Dubai before returning to Kashmir to pursue his passion. He urged aspiring entrepreneurs to remain innovative, embrace challenges confidently, and leverage government schemes supporting self-employment. Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Bandipora, Dr Suhaib Wani, encouraged participants to sharpen their skills and utilise government initiatives promoting innovation and sustainable livelihoods. Dr Zulfi, a resource person from Waqar Knowledge Centre, briefed attendees about mentorship programmes, skill development initiatives, and financial assistance available for young entrepreneurs. Students raised queries on business planning, overcoming initial hurdles, accessing financial support, and identifying market opportunities, with speakers responding through practical suggestions and real-life experiences. BDO Aloosa and Nodal Officer, Waqar Knowledge Centre, Ulfat Ali, thanked Khan for his inspiring address and reaffirmed the administration's commitment to organising more such sessions for Bandipora's youth. (KNS)

Srinagar, Jul 7: In a significant step towards strengthening community led environmental action, the MEERC Council of the Private Schools’ Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK) in collaboration with the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) convened a multi stakeholder dialogue on environmental sustainability, waste management, and civic responsibility. The event brought together policymakers, environmentalists, educationists, government officials, and civil society representatives under one roof under the title Dont Waste The Future at the Institution of Engineers (India), Church Lane, Srinagar.  The programme was attended MLA M Y Tarigami as the chief guest who is also the Chairman, House Committee on Environment, J&K Legislative Assembly. Former Advisor to the J&K Governor Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Joint Director Tourism Kashmir Waseem Raja, , Mr. Farooq A. Gillani, (IFS Retd.), Padma Shri S P Verma, President PSAJK Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam, Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat social activist along with NLCO Core Group members Dr. Farooq Peer, Aijaz Naqshbandi, and Peerzada Faiyaz Ahmad.  The programme was moderated by Advocate Nadeem Qadri, while the welcome address was delivered by Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam and the vote of thanks was deliverd by president Rotary Club of Kashmir Dr. Tauseef Ahmad Bhat.  Addressing the gathering, NLCO Chairman Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo emphasized that environmental conservation can no longer remain the sole responsibility of government agencies.  He called for active public participation, particularly by educational institutions, describing students as the most powerful ambassadors of environmental stewardship. The PSAJK shall work with the academicians to form HPC which will add portfolio development in our circulumn and within a span of one year the association shall adopt green campuses all across J&K. The dialogue culminated in the unanimous adoption of five resolutions that will guide future collaborative initiatives between NLCO, PSAJK, educational institutions, and civil society. The resolutions includes restoration and conservation of Brari Nambal, adoption of ten public and religious spaces for cleanliness and beautification, launch of the Green Campus and safe surroundings initiative in and around schools, student signature campaign highlighting concerns related to the stray dog menace and student mass awareness and action on solid waste management reaching each household. Speaking on the occasion, the guests appreciated NLCO’s and PSAJK sustained efforts in promoting environmental action and commended the organisations for building meaningful partnerships between government institutions, schools, environmental experts, and civil society. The speakers unanimously stressed that environmental stewardship must move beyond awareness programmes and translate into sustained action through community participation, responsible waste management, restoration of natural ecosystems, and active youth engagement. Chairman NLCO Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to working with all stakeholders to transform the resolutions into measurable action on the ground. “Real change begins when institutions, communities, and citizens work together. These resolutions are not merely commitments on paper but a roadmap towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Kashmir,” he said. PSAJK called upon schools, students, parents, government departments, civil society organizations and citizens to work collectively towards building a clean, green and sustainable and environmentally responsible Jammu and Kashmir. The Green Marathon programme starting from Kupwara and Green Campus Program was initiated by Adv. Nadeem Qadri who is also the Advisor, to the J&K chapter of The Climate Reality Project India and South Asia.

Srinagar, Jul 4: Srinagar Airport on Saturday withdrew the previously proposed Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) envisaging full runway closure on Mondays and Tuesdays, announcing that flight operations will continue on all days this year. In an operational update posted on X, the airport said there will be no full airfield closure, while operational/watch hours will remain from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, night-time runway maintenance will continue until October 2026. “Passengers are advised that there will be no full airfield closure at Srinagar Airport this year. Airport operations will continue on all days with operational/watch hours from 0800 hrs to 1700 hrs. Night closures for runway maintenance will continue until October 2026,” the airport said. The airport also announced that the previously proposed NOTAM regarding full runway closure on Mondays and Tuesdays has been withdrawn. It added that airlines will continue to update their schedules in accordance with the prevailing operational timings. Passengers have been advised to check the status of their flights with their respective airlines before leaving for the airport and rely only on official channels for authentic updates. (KNO)

Srinagar, June 28: The Chief Education Officer (CEO), Ganderbal has deputed 62 teachers and other staff from government schools to manage RFID, e-KYC and on-the-spot registration facilities for SAJY-2026 at the Baltal base camp. As per the order issued by the CEO, Ganderbal on June 27, the officials were directed to report at Yatri Niwas Baltal and the RFID Building by 9:00 pm on the same day and remain on duty throughout the Yatra period or until further orders.  The move comes in wake of the preparations underway for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SAJY) -2026. The deputation has been made in pursuance of an order issued by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, to ensure the smooth functioning of the RFID, electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) and on-the-spot registration centres established for pilgrims.  As per the order, a detailed code of conduct has been laid down for the deputed officials, directing them to report to designated nodal officers, maintain punctuality and discipline, safeguard government equipment and ensure courteous behaviour while dealing with pilgrims.  Officials have also been instructed to maintain strict confidentiality of pilgrims' personal data and refrain from sharing login credentials, passwords or other digital access with unauthorized persons.  The CEO has warned that unauthorized absence, negligence, dereliction of duty, password changes, misuse of official credentials or any activity hampering the functioning of the registration centres will invite disciplinary action under the applicable service rules.  The order further reads that the salaries of the deputed officials will continue to be drawn by their respective Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) upon production of attendance certificates issued by the nodal officer of the RFID centres. All the officials have been directed to acknowledge the instructions and ensure strict compliance.  The deployment list comprises 62 teachers, laboratory assistants, physical education teachers, library staff and multi-tasking staff drawn mainly from the education zones of Kangan and Hariganiwan. Most of them have been assigned to the New Building of Yatri Niwas Baltal, while others have been posted at the RFID Building and assigned supervisory and technical responsibilities. 

Srinagar, June 25: Jammu Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) on Thursday condoled the demise of JKAS officer Romeen Ahmad Sheikh. In a statement issued here, Provincial President JKTF Javaid Ahmad Bhat expressed grief  and sorrow over the shocking demise of Romeen Ahmad Sheikh a young JKAS officer who was currently serving as Joint Director Handloom department. The deceased was the brother in law of SDPO Kreeri Aeshal Nisar. Bhat remembered the deceased as a noble soul with a human heart. "Demise of  Romeen Sheikh is a personal loss to me and the whole teaching fraternity across JK UT. People of Kreeri stand with the bereaved family particularly Aeshal Nisar at this hour of grief," Bhat in a statement said. Bhai also prayed for the eternal peace to the departed soul and patience to bereaved family to Bear this irreparable loss.

Srinagar, Jun 24: Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, Dr. G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, on Wednesday said that elaborate security, traffic and civic arrangements have been put in place for the 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar, with drone surveillance being used to ensure its smooth and peaceful conduct. Talking to reporters on the sidelines of the procession at Lal Chowk, SSP Srinagar said the arrangements cover the entire traditional route from Guru Bazar to Dalgate and Imamabad. “The Srinagar Police, in coordination with paramilitary forces and the traffic police, has meticulously planned security arrangements from the starting point to the end point of the procession. Drone surveillance is also being used to enhance security and provide comfort to mourners as well as the general public,” Dr. Chakravarthy told reporters here. He urged the public and procession organisers to adhere to traffic advisories and the notified do’s and don’ts issued by the police. “Our only aim is to ensure that the procession is conducted smoothly and in a dignified manner. For that, we require the cooperation and support of all stakeholders and the public,” he said. The SSP said police personnel have been deployed round-the-clock to facilitate the event and appealed to mourners to cooperate with the security agencies. “We are on duty day and night to serve the public. We request everyone to cooperate so that the programme concludes peacefully and smoothly,” he added. Replying to a query regarding the upcoming 10th Muharram procession, Dr. Chakravarthy said similar comprehensive arrangements have already been planned for the main procession in the Jadibal area. “That is the main procession and we have made elaborate arrangements for it as well. We are committed to ensuring its successful and peaceful conduct,” he said. (KNO)

Srinagar, Jun 24: Beneath a blanket of black flags and mourning banners, thousands of devotees streamed into Srinagar’s city centre at dawn on Wednesday as the traditional 8th Muharram procession began, transforming the Guru Bazar-Dalgate route into a river of mourners moving in remembrance of the martyrs of Karbala. From Guru Bazar to Dalgate, roads wore a sombre look. Sabeels, medical camps and volunteer-run service stalls lined the route, offering water, refreshments and assistance to participants, while elegies echoed through the streets as mourners joined the procession in large numbers. The procession commenced from Guru Bazar in the early morning hours and proceeded along the traditional route via Budshah Kadal and M.A. Road, with mourners carrying black standards and participating in commemorative rituals. “It is not just a procession, but it is a journey of remembrance and sacrifice. People wait all year to be part of this day,” said, Tahir Ali, a mourner from central Kashmir’s Budgam district. Another participant, Mubashir Hassan said the atmosphere reflected both grief and unity. “You can see people from every corner of Kashmir here. The arrangements by volunteers and authorities have helped everything move smoothly,” he said. As the procession advanced through the city centre, residents watched from roadside spaces, while volunteers remained busy attending to mourners and managing the service stalls set up along the route. Officials said elaborate arrangements had been put in place for the smooth conduct of the procession, including security deployment, drone surveillance, medical facilities, traffic regulation, sanitation measures, and uninterrupted essential services. Traffic diversions remained in force on major roads connected to the route, while designated parking facilities were made available for participants arriving from different districts and localities. The procession was continuing peacefully when this report was filed. (KNO)

Srinagar, June 22: The Department of Students' Welfare, Kashmir University (KU) organised a Social Service Camp at the revered Kheer Bhawani Shrine, Tulmulla, Ganderbal, as part of the University's community outreach and social responsibility initiatives. The camp was established at the main entrance of the shrine to facilitate and assist the devotees visiting the holy shrine from different parts of the country. Officials, officers and student volunteers of the Department of Students' Welfare actively participated in the camp and served refreshments, drinking water, sherbetand Juice to the devotees throughout the day. The initiative received an overwhelming response from the devotees, who appreciated the University's gesture of service and outreach. Many visitors expressed happiness and satisfaction over the University's efforts to connect with society beyond its academic responsibilities. Vice Chancellor, Kashmir University (KU), in her message said that varsity has always upheld the values of social responsibility, inclusiveness and service to the community. "Our engagement with society extends beyond academic pursuits and reflects our commitment to promoting mutual respect, compassion and harmony among people from diverse backgrounds," she said. VC said the social service camp at the Kheer Bhawani Shrine is a reflection of these values and demonstrates the University's dedication to supporting initiatives that strengthen social cohesion and community well-being. "I am particularly pleased to see our students actively participating in this endeavour, embodying the spirit of volunteerism and service that is central to the ethos of higher education," she said. She added that such initiatives not only enrich the learning experience of our students but also reinforce the University's enduring connection with society Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal said Universities are not merely centres of learning but institutions that cultivate responsible citizenship and a commitment to public service. "The participation of our students and officials in serving devotees at the Kheer Bhawani Shrine reflects the values of empathy, respect and community engagement that the University seeks to nurture," he said. He said such outreach programmes provide opportunities for students to interact with society, appreciate its diversity and contribute positively to the common good. "KU remains committed to initiatives that promote social harmony, mutual understanding, and a culture of service," he said. Dean Students' Welfare KU, Prof. Seema Singh said the social service camp was conceived as an opportunity for students to participate in a meaningful act of service while interacting directly with members of the public. "Such initiatives help cultivate leadership qualities, teamwork, discipline, and a sense of responsibility among students. The enthusiastic response of our volunteers reflects their willingness to contribute to the welfare of society and uphold the values of service that are integral to the University's outreach programmes. The Department of Students' Welfare will continue to organize activities that provide students with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement," she added Cultural Officer KU, Dr. Shahid Ali Khan said the Kheer Bhawani Mela is an important cultural and spiritual occasion that attracts devotees from different parts of the country. "The University's participation through this service camp is aimed at extending support to the devotees and contributing to the smooth conduct of the event. Such initiatives provide students with valuable exposure to the rich cultural traditions and pluralistic heritage of J&K while reinforcing the University's commitment to public outreach. We are encouraged by the positive response received from the devotees and visitors throughout the day," he said. The student volunteers expressed their satisfaction at being part of the service camp and described the experience as enriching. The Department of Students' Welfare thanked all volunteers, officials, and devotees for their cooperation and support in making the event successful.

Baramulla, June 15: The Gulmarg Battalion of Indian Army and Sheep Husbandry department Baramulla on Monday organised animal health and awareness camp at Bhutapathri, Gulmarg. The camp was a part of the outreach initiative aimed at supporting livestock-rearing communities in the highland areas. The camp primarily focused on serving tribal communities and Chopans engaged in livestock rearing in the upper reaches and seasonal grazing areas. As per the official handout, the programme was facilitated by 9 Raj Rifles, whose support and coordination played a vital role in the successful conduct of the camp. A large number of livestock rearers from the surrounding highland areas participated and availed the services provided at the event. During the camp, comprehensive veterinary healthcare services were extended to a wide range of livestock, including sheep, goats, cattle, buffaloes, and equines. The veterinary team conducted clinical examinations, treatment of sick animals, and preventive healthcare interventions to ensure improved animal health and productivity. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ishfaq Dhobi, VAS Shrakwara, highlighted the immense potential of livestock rearing as a sustainable livelihood option, particularly for tribal and pastoral communities. He emphasized the importance of adopting scientific animal husbandry practices and informed the participants about opportunities for marketing livestock products as organic produce, thereby enhancing their income and market value. Dr. Dhobi also apprised the participants of various government-sponsored schemes, subsidies, and employment opportunities available in the livestock sector. He encouraged the youth to view livestock farming not merely as a traditional occupation but as a viable and profitable entrepreneurial venture capable of generating sustainable livelihoods. As part of the camp activities, free first-aid kits and deworming medicines were distributed among the beneficiaries under the ATMA scheme, enabling livestock owners to better manage the health of their animals during the grazing season. The participating livestock rearers expressed their gratitude to the Sheep Husbandry Department especially Dr Showkat Ahangar, DSHO Baramulla for extending essential veterinary services to remote highland areas and appreciated the department's commitment towards the welfare of pastoral communities. The Indian Army personnel and local beneficiaries alike lauded the efforts of the department and thanked the authorities for establishing a permanent veterinary camp in the vicinity during the Behak period, which will ensure continuous access to veterinary care and technical support for migratory livestock rearers. "The initiative reflects the shared commitment of the Sheep Husbandry Department and the Indian Army towards improving rural livelihoods, strengthening animal healthcare delivery, and enhancing the socio-economic well-being of tribal and pastoral communities in the region," the handout reads.

Kupwara, June 15: An ex-servicemen (ESM) rally was organised at Baghbela, Tangdharon under the aegis of the Chinar Corps of Indian Army. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and their dependents from the surrounding region, reaffirming the enduring bond between the Indian Army and its veteran fraternity. As per the official handout, the he rally served as a comprehensive platform for meaningful interaction between serving personnel and veterans. Participants were apprised of various welfare initiatives, pension-related provisions, healthcare facilities, resettlement avenues and other entitlements designed for the veteran community. Representatives from relevant agencies and departments were present to address grievances, provide guidance and facilitate the prompt resolution of issues concerning Ex-Servicemen and their families through direct and constructive engagement. The occasion also provided an opportunity to acknowledge and honour the exemplary contributions, unwavering dedication and selfless sacrifices rendered by veterans in the service of the nation. The event resonated with a profound spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect, underscoring the enduring relationship between serving soldiers and those who once stood in uniform safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. The conduct of the rally further exemplified the Indian Army’s steadfast dedication to nurture a lifelong association with its veterans and their families.

Langate, June 15: The Contractors Association Langate on Monday staged a peaceful protest against the prolonged vacancy of the Executive Engineer (ExEn) post in the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Sub-Division Langate. Talking to reporters, the protesting contractors said that the post of Executive Engineer has remained vacant for the last three months, causing inconvenience and delays in the execution and processing of various developmental works in the area. The association members expressed concern that the absence of an Executive Engineer has adversely affected administrative functioning and project implementation, creating difficulties for contractors as well as the general public. The protesters urged the higher authorities of the R&B Department and the Government to take immediate steps to fill the vacant post and ensure smooth functioning of the department. “We request the concerned authorities to appoint a new Executive Engineer in R&B Sub-Division Langate without further delay so that ongoing developmental activities do not suffer,” the contractors said. The protest remained peaceful and the contractors demanded prompt intervention from the authorities to address the issue in the interest of the public.

Srinagar, June 1: World No Tobacco Day 2026 was observed with great enthusiasm and active participation at the University of Kashmir, Srinagar. The function was organised in collaboration with the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital (GDCH), Srinagar. The programme was organized with the objective of creating awareness regarding the harmful effects of tobacco use, promoting healthy lifestyles, and strengthening the message of a tobacco-free society under the banner of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. World No Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31 under the leadership of the World Health Organization (WHO), serves as a global platform to highlight the devastating health, social, economic, and environmental consequences of tobacco consumption. The day aims to encourage individuals, communities, and institutions to take collective action against tobacco use and support tobacco cessation initiatives.  Tobacco remains one of the leading preventable causes of disease and death worldwide, causing cancers, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, and numerous oral health problems. The programme commenced with a Walkathon and awareness rally on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, which was flagged off by the Vice-Chancellor  University of Kashmir Dr. Neelofar Khan. The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, healthcare professionals, and volunteers who carried awareness placards and disseminated messages highlighting the dangers of tobacco consumption and substance abuse.  The event reflected the University’s commitment towards promoting health and well-being among students and the wider community. Following the rally, a series of expert lectures was conducted by distinguished speakers from various healthcare disciplines. The first lecture was delivered by Dr. Naveed Nazir, Head, Department of Chest Medicine and Pulmonology, on the topic “Breaking the Habit: Harsh Realities of Tobacco.” He elaborated on the detrimental impact of tobacco on respiratory health, emphasizing its role in chronic lung diseases, cancer, and premature mortality, while stressing the urgent need for effective tobacco cessation interventions. The second lecture was delivered by Dr. Yasir Rather on “Nicotine and the Brain.” He discussed the neurobiological basis of nicotine addiction, explaining how tobacco products influence brain chemistry and contribute to dependence, mental health issues, and behavioural changes. An insightful lecture was also presented by Dr. Aasim Farooq Shah, Head and In-charge, Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar, on “Behavioural Interventions in Tobacco Cessation.” He highlighted evidence-based behavioural counselling techniques, motivational interviewing, and community-based strategies that have proven effective in helping individuals quit tobacco. He emphasized that tobacco cessation requires a multidisciplinary approach combining counselling, behavioural support, and sustained follow-up. The programme further featured a presentation by Dr. Asif Yousuf and Dr. Asifa Ashraf on “Landscape of Tobacco,” providing participants with an overview of tobacco prevalence, emerging consumption trends, novel nicotine delivery products, and the public health challenges posed by tobacco use in contemporary society. A significant highlight of the programme was the awareness generated regarding the Tobacco Cessation Centre established at the University Health Centre, University of Kashmir, in collaboration with the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar. The centre serves as a dedicated facility providing professional counselling, behavioural support, awareness services, and guidance to students, faculty, staff, and members of the community seeking assistance in quitting tobacco. The initiative represents an important step toward institutionalizing tobacco cessation services and making evidence-based support readily accessible within the university campus. The organisers expressed their sincere appreciation to Dr. Khalid Nazir, Coordinator, University Health Centre, University of Kashmir, for his invaluable support, leadership, and coordination in successfully organizing the programme. His continuous efforts in strengthening health promotion activities and fostering collaborations between the University Health Centre and Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar, were acknowledged as instrumental in the success of the event and in advancing the cause of tobacco control and health awareness within the university community. The primary objective of the programme was to sensitize students and young adults about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption, encourage healthy lifestyle choices, promote behavioural change, and strengthen ongoing efforts aimed at achieving a tobacco-free and drug-free society. The event concluded with an interactive discussion session, during which participants engaged actively with the experts, sought guidance on tobacco cessation strategies, and reaffirmed their commitment to spreading awareness against tobacco use.  Participants also pledged their support towards the vision of a healthier, tobacco-free future and the objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. The programme served as a strong reminder that collective action through education, awareness, counselling, and community engagement remains essential in reducing the burden of tobacco-related diseases and creating a healthier society for future generations.