VC sets sight on top spot among SAUs
KS News Desk
Srinagar, Jan 1: On New Years Day, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir held a special celebratory event to mark the start of 2026 by honouring the scientists, students, and university staff whose efforts propelled the institution to its current standing as the third-best state agricultural university(SAU) in the country.
Addressing a packed audience, Vice Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai set a high bar for the coming year. While presenting the Achiever of the Year awards, Prof Ganai credited the university's upward growth trajectory to the relentless hard work of its staff.
"It is your dedication that has made this university the third-best in the country," Prof Ganai remarked. "The surge in externally funded projects, patents, innovations, and startups is a testimony to your labour. We are a brand university now, and every initiative we take must be for the upliftment of our stakeholders. Our vision is clear: to emerge as a global transdisciplinary university, a strategic policy thinktank, and target J&K as a model bioeconomy for the nation."
Registrar, SKUAST-K, Prof Azmat Alam Khan, provided an overview of the previous years milestones, highlighting how the university has become central to the sustainable agriculture and economic development of Jammu and Kashmir.
The event also saw the high-profile launch of the SKUAST-K Calendar for 2026. Describing the publication as more than just a datebook, the Vice Chancellor noted that each page was designed to depict the institution's uniqueness and growth story. "Sky is our limit," he told the gathering, "and this calendar invites everyone to be a part of our transformative journey." Alongside the calendar, the December 2025 edition of Shalimar AgriTalk was released, featuring various happenings at the university, success stories and the Vice Chancellors roadmap for the New Year.
In a move toward further industrial integration, the university held an e-launch for 550 MSME skill programs aimed at fostering skill development and entrepreneurship among the youth pf Jammu and Kasshmir.
The awards ceremony itself was diverse, recognizing a wide spectrum of contributions. "Achiever of the Year" certificates were handed out for innovations, academic excellence, community outreach, and Human Resource Development. Recipients included faculty and student startup founders, Research Station and KVK heads, and Principal Investigators leading major projects like HADP and JKCIP. Scientists who developed groundbreaking technologies and new crop varieties stood alongside administrative staff from various directorates, all recognized for their role in the university's ecosystem.
The proceedings were marked by a sense of community and a poignant farewell. Prof. Haroon R. Naik welcomed the faculty and officials, while Prof. Nasir Ahmad Dar conducted the days events. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Joint Registrar Pervaiz Ahmad Bhat. Bhat, who is set to superannuate next month, received a warm acknowledgement from his colleagues for his years of service to the university administration. Vice Chancellor Prof Ganai thanked Bhat for his dedicated service as an astute administrator and a pillar of institutional integrity, whose tireless efforts significantly strengthened the universitys governance during his long and distinguished tenure.
Director Extension, Prof Raihana Habib, Director Education Mohammad Altaf Bhat, Deans of various faculties, Comptroller SKUAST-K, Controller Examinations, and other officers of the university were also present at the occasion.
'Results likely to get delayed in absence of Chairman' Jammu, Jan 7: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) on Wednesday said the result of the class 10th examinations will be declared soon after the appointment of the Chairman of the Board. The statement comes amid the uncertainty about the declaration of the results by JKBOSE. In an official handout issued here, JKBOSE has advised students not to pay heed to fake links and websites announcing declaration of class 10 results. "Result of class 10th will be declared within few days soon after the appointment of new Chairman," the statement reads. The JKBOSE has stated that the results of annual examination of class 10 of Kashmir valley and winter zone areas of Jammu Division are almost ready. "But its approval by Result Declaration Committee headed by BOSE Chairman is a pre- requisite before its declaration. In absence of the Chairman the results are likely to get a little delayed," it reads. The JKBOSE officials have advised the students to wait for the formal declaration on the official website of the Board- www.jkbose.nic.in. "Students should not get misled by scamesters and fake narratives circulated by some mischievous elements, whose sole aim is to create confusion in the innocent student community," the statement reads.
Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmir’s 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). “About a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,” 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.“If we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,” he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeeb’s research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. “In this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,” he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. “It is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,” 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,” 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. “My parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,” he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. “Just as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.” “Young people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,” he further added.
Srinagar, Jan 8: The University of Kashmir (KU) has made the biometric attendance mandatory for the students of its affiliated colleges from Academic session 2026-27. The development comes in wake of the complaints about the thin attendance of the students in various private B.Ed colleges affiliated with the Kashmir University. A circular in this regard has been issued by the Assistant Registrar Dean Colleges Development Council (DCDC) of the University. "All the Chairpersons and Principals of private affiliated colleges of the University of Kashmir are hereby informed that biometric attendance for all the enrolled students and staff has been made mandatory from the year 2026-27," the KU circular reads. The Principals of all the affiliated colleges have been directed to install biometric attendance machines in their respective institutions on or before the commencement of the Academic year 2026-27 under intimation to the Dean College Development Council of the University. "The college shall also ensure proper upkeep, maintenance, and systematic preservation of all biometric attendance records for future reference and verification," it reads. The Colleges have been directed to comply with this directive "without fail." The move comes in wake of the inspections conducted last year by the DCDC of KU in various B.Ed colleges where most of the students were found absent. An official said that there were complaints about the poor attendance of the students in B.Ed colleges. "The students do not attend their B.Ed classes regularly which defeats the purpose of the course," the official said. Earlier, DCDC of KU earlier barred the B.Ed students to appear in teh semester exams for falling short of attendance. The decision was taken in wake of the surprise inspection conducted by Dean College Development Council (DCDC) in various B.Ed colleges of Kashmir in June-July month of 2025 and several students were found absent from the classes. Following this, the students were directed to attend supplementary classes to complete the recommended attendance for appearing in their exams. Also, the exam of these students was deferred by few months.
Srinagar, Jan 8: The Director of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has pulled up the officers vested with the powers of Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) as their additional assignment, for indulging in administrative works, beyond their domain. As per the order issued by the Director School Education Kashmir Naseer Ahmad Wani, the officers having additional DDO powers, have been reprimanded for going beyond their role of duties. "It has come to the notice of the DSEK that many officers of the department vested with DDOs powers are affecting transfers and doing administrative works having no authority to do so," the order reads. As per the order, all these DDOs holding charge in additional capacity have been asked to utilise the powers for the purpose of drawing and disbursing salary and other financial matters within the limits of the authority. "The officers shall not exercise any administrative powers particularly with respect to the transfer of staff," it reads. The DSEK has warned of disciplinary action in case of violation of the order by any officers. "Any deviation from the instant order shall be viewed seriously and invite disciplinary action," it reads.
KS News Desk Srinagar, Jan 7: Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday said that growing depression and frustration among youth is pushing them towards taking the wrong steps. She said this while referring to the recent Red Fort blast incident. Mehbooba Mufti while speaking at a function marking the 10th death anniversary of her father and former Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, Mehbooba said the younger generation is grappling with uncertainty and lack of opportunities, which is having serious social consequences. Overcome with emotion during her address, Mehbooba Mufti broke down while remembering her father, describing him as a statesman who believed in peace, courage and people-centric politics. “On the 10th death anniversary of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Sahab, we honour a leader whose legacy of reconciliation, courage and commitment to the people continues to inspire us,” she said. She reiterated the need to address the concerns of youth and restore hope, stating that only meaningful engagement and inclusive politics can prevent alienation. (KNC)
Srinagar, Jan 8: At least 1257 two-wheeler riders across Jammu and Kashmir have been identified for repeated violations of helmet norms, with over 1000 cases reported from the Kashmir division alone. The figures emerged during a data-driven traffic compliance review, highlighting a growing trend of habitual non-compliance with road safety regulations despite sustained enforcement and awareness campaigns. As per the official data revealed by Regional Transport Office (RTO) Kashmir, Srinagar district has topped the list with 1051 repeat offenders, making it the worst-performing region in terms of helmet compliance. Other districts recorded significantly lower numbers, including Budgam (52), Baramulla (19), Samba (19) and Pulwama (17). Smaller figures were also reported from Anantnag, Kupwara, Ganderbal and Bandipora. The RTO Kashmir on Thursday issued a public notice directing all two-wheeler owners in the Valley to clear pending challans within seven days, failing which strict legal action will be initiated under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The measures include suspension of registration certificates and driving licences, besides seizure of vehicles. “It has come to the notice of the undersigned that several two-wheeler vehicles registered in districts under the Kashmir division are being plied on public roads in violation of the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, particularly riders and pillion riders not wearing helmets,” the notice reads. The data further reveals that many riders in Srinagar have been booked between five and eight times for the same offence, pointing to habitual violations. Officials said the trend reflects a serious disregard for road safety norms, especially in urban areas. “This is not merely occasional non-compliance but a pattern of repeated violations, particularly in city limits,” an official said. The RTO has warned that failure to clear outstanding challans within the stipulated timeframe will result in immediate enforcement action without any further notice. (KNO)
20 startups to get Rs 5 lakh seed funding KS News Desk Srinagar, Jan 01: The IT Innovation Park, Directorate of IT&SS, University of Kashmir (KU) has invited eligible innovators and aspiring entrepreneurs to apply for the IT Innovators Incubation Programme under RUSA 2.0. The programme aims to nurture innovative ideas and transform them into scalable, technology-driven startups. It is designed to support early-stage startups and innovators working in emerging areas of information technology. Under the IT Innovators Incubation Programme, a total of 20 startups will be selected for incubation and will receive seed funding of Rs 5 lakh per startup. "This financial support is intended to facilitate prototype development, proof-of-concept creation, and early-stage scaling of innovative solutions," a handout reads. The IT Innovation Park offers a comprehensive support ecosystem, including dedicated workspace, high-speed internet connectivity, access to data centre facilities, meeting and collaboration spaces, technical assistance, and structured mentorship from experienced professionals and domain experts. The programme focuses on key technology domains such as Software Development, Networking Technologies, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security, aligning with emerging industry requirements and national digital priorities. "Eligible innovators and aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply and leverage this opportunity to transform their ideas into impactful and sustainable technology solutions through the state-of-the-art facilities at the IT Innovation Park, University of Kashmir," it reads.
Deputy CM, Health Minister jointly inaugurate Blood Donation Camp, Full Body Profile testing facility at National Hospital JammuKS News DeskJammu, Jan 4: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary and Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo Sunday jointly inaugurated the Blood Donation Camp for Thalassemia children and Full Body Profile Testing Facility at National Hospital, Karan Bagh here.Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the health sector in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed significant improvement over the past year and the Government remains committed to its further strengthening.He said that under the present Government, healthcare services have improved considerably, particularly after the Health Minister assumed charge, though sustained efforts are required to bridge remaining gaps.The Government, he added, is pursuing pro-people policies in both the education and health sectors to ensure better services for citizens.The Deputy Chief Minister noted improvements in hospital infrastructure, responsiveness and sanitation, and said the Government is focusing on addressing challenges such as filling vacant posts and strengthening healthcare facilities, especially in Jammu region.He urged doctors from both government and private sectors to work collectively to make the healthcare system more robust. He said though the both Government and Private health sector has witnessed significant improvement in Kashmir, however, health sector in Jammu has a long way to go.He urged doctors to work with more dedication for better patient care.Need is to work collectively to ensure better Healthcare service delivery to the people, he said.He also appreciated the organizers of the blood donation camp and the hospital management, including Dr Jasveer Kour and Dr Harvinder Singh, for their initiative. He said that providing full body profile testing at nominal charges would greatly benefit the public.Addressing the gathering, Minister Sakeena highlighted the critical role of voluntary blood donation in saving lives, particularly during medical emergencies, surgeries and for patients suffering from chronic illnesses. Blood donation is very noble work and a simple yet powerful act of humanity. One unit of blood can save multiple lives, she stated.The Minister further said that blood donation is also very good for the health of donor. She also lauded the initiative taken by this hospital administration for organizing this camp and encouraged citizens to participate in this noble cause. The Minister also appreciated the hospital for launching full body profile tests at nominal rate, adding that such noble initiatives will benefit the common people in long run.The Minister further highlighted that under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, the Government has upgraded the medical infrastructure facilities across length and breadth of Jammu and Kashmir in last 12 months. Cath Labs MRI facilities, CT Scan lab and other advanced facilities are being established in GMCs and District Hospitals to provide advanced medical care services to people near their vicinities, Minister Sakeena said.She added that the Government is committed to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure and ensure that every advance medical facility is available to people in their nearby hospitals.The Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister, on the occasion , also extended Gurupurab (Prakash Purab) greetings to the people, especially the Sikh community.Director Health Services Jammu, Dr Abdul Hamid Zargar and other concerned officers were also present on the occasion.