NOK Desk

Politics

PDP was Willing to Allocate Seats to Jamaat-e-Islami, if Contacted: Waheed Ur Rehman Parra

by
Waheed Parra PDP

Peoples Democratic Party Youth President and Assembly Candidate for Pulwama Constituency Waheed Ur Rehman Parra on Sunday said that if Jamaat-e-Islami had approached the PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, She would have accommodated Jamaat-e-Islami candidates and given them tickets.

Parra emphasized that the PDP has always prioritized inclusive politics and engagement with diverse groups, regardless of their ideological affiliations, to ensure the broadest possible representation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

He emphasized that Mehbooba Mufti has always believed in dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusion. If Jamaat-e-Islami had reached out to PDP, we would have considered seat allocations to bring together all voices within the democratic framework. Even if it meant sacrificing many seats, we would have accommodated them.

Parra asserted that the PDP’s commitment is to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and we believe that every group, party and especially those representing significant sections of society, deserves a place at the table.

He added that the PDP’s approach has always been to bridge divides and ensure that all communities, irrespective of their backgrounds, have a say in shaping the future of the region. If Jamaat-e-Islami wants to contest elections, it is a positive development. Democracy is a battle of ideas. The government should lift the ban on it. We would have accommodated them and provided sufficient space, seats, and opportunities to contest.

Parra added that if our party comes to power, we will lift the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami. He reiterated that such an inclusive approach is essential for lasting peace, tranquility, prosperity, and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)

News

Syed Salim Gilani Leader of Hurriyat Conference Joined PDP

by

Syed Salim Gilani, a former leader of the Hurriyat Conference, has officially joined the J&K Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The announcement was made today at the party headquarters in Srinagar, where he was welcomed by PDP President Mehbooba Mufti. This significant political development marks a noteworthy shift in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

Gilani’s move to the PDP is seen as a pivotal moment, reflecting a possible realignment of political allegiances in the region. The Hurriyat Conference, known for its separatist stance, has faced various challenges over the years, and Gilani’s departure may indicate shifts within the group. By joining the PDP, Gilani aligns himself with a party that advocates for a political solution within the framework of the Indian Union, focusing on development and reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir.

Mehbooba Mufti’s welcome of Gilani underscores the PDP’s ongoing efforts to broaden its base and consolidate its position in the region. This move could potentially influence future political dynamics, as Gilani’s experience and connections within the political sphere might provide the PDP with additional leverage in navigating the complex issues facing Jammu and Kashmir.

News

DGP and IGP Honour DSP Humayun Muzamil Bhat and His Family

by

DGP J&K R.R.Swain alongwith Chairperson, J&K Police Wives Welfare Association (PWWA) Prof.Rasmita Das Swain and IGP Kashmir V.K.Birdhi visited Ms Fatima Humayun wife of Kirti Chakra awardee martyr DSP,Sh.Humayun Muzamil Bhat and their toddler son.Paying glowing tributes to the martyr DGP and his colleagues reminisced Humayun as a rare combination of fortitude and kindness and committed as much to his family as to the common people of Kashmir through his profession. Humayun, the mortal is no more, long live Humayun, the martyr and the martyrdom of all policemen he represents. All may know that time can erode many things but not the affection and respect that binds the ‘living’ with the ‘fallen’ in J&K Police. Long live ‘The family’.

Kashmir Education

Najam Rauf Successfully Defends PhD Thesis ”The Impact of Teacher Efficacy on Student Satisfaction”

by

In a significant academic milestone, Najam Rauf, a Research Scholar from the Department of Management Studies, has successfully defended his PhD thesis titled ‘The Impact of Teacher Efficacy on Student Satisfaction: A Study of Universities in Jammu & Kashmir.’ This achievement marks a notable contribution to the field of educational management, particularly in the context of higher education in the Jammu and Kashmir region.

The research, supervised by Dr. Parvez Abdullah and Dr. Vinay Kumar, delves into the critical relationship between teacher efficacy and student satisfaction—a topic of considerable relevance in contemporary educational discourse. Teacher efficacy, or the belief in one’s own ability to affect student outcomes, has been widely recognised as a key factor influencing student satisfaction and overall academic performance. Najam Rauf’s study aimed to assess this impact within the specific context of universities in Jammu and Kashmir, providing valuable insights into how teacher effectiveness can enhance student experiences and outcomes.

The defence of the thesis involved a rigorous examination of Rauf’s research methodology, data analysis, and findings. The committee, composed of academic experts and peers, scrutinised the work’s contribution to existing literature, its practical implications, and its relevance to the higher education sector. Rauf’s thorough analysis and well-argued conclusions received commendation from the panel, affirming the robustness of his research.

Dr. Parvez Abdullah and Dr. Vinay Kumar, who guided Rauf throughout his doctoral journey, have praised his dedication and scholarly approach. Their mentorship has been instrumental in shaping the research, ensuring that it addresses pertinent issues with academic rigor and practical relevance.

Najam Rauf’s successful thesis defence not only highlights his personal academic achievements but also contributes significantly to the broader field of educational management. The findings of his study are expected to inform policy and practice in higher education institutions, offering strategies to enhance teaching effectiveness and improve student satisfaction.

As Rauf moves forward from this academic milestone, he is likely to continue his engagement with research and academia, building on the foundation laid by his doctoral work. The academic community anticipates that his future contributions will further advance understanding in the field of education and inspire further research on teacher efficacy and student satisfaction.

Congratulations to Najam Rauf on this remarkable achievement, and best wishes for his future endeavours in the realm of academic research and education.

Politics

Hope Ganderbal will elect me again, Never taken any Election easy: Omar Abdullah

by

National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that he has never taken election easy, adding that he hope People of Ganderbal will elect him again.

Speaking to reporters here at Ganderbal Omar said that they are standing against the BJP with a united front and there was need to have alliance for Pir Panjal areas to keep BJP out.

According to KNS correspondent, On accusations that he has sacrificed his principles for power, Omar said that the people who are making such accusations are his own relatives.

“If they were bound by their own principles, then they should have stayed out of this as well”, he added.

He further said that while he believes the current assembly lacks the strength it should have, “we can only strengthen this assembly through this assembly.

Responding to a question that the Chief Minister cannot even transfer an MP, he said, “I will not go into that. But today, we are not electing a Chief Minister. We want to make him an MLA first, and then we will decide who will be the Chief Minister after October 4.”

Regarding concerns raised by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) that Er Rashid could influence witnesses and tamper with evidence, he said, “A voter does not decide on a bail. Bail is decided in court.”

He added that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had similarly opposed the withdrawal of the case against Farooq Abdullah, but “the court decided, and the case was withdrawn.”

He also said the court will decide on September 4. “I think the NIA will fail their argument, just like the ED did.”(KNS)

Kashmir Education

National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) Proposes Inclusion of Class 9-11 Marks in Class 12 Board Results

by

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has suggested a new evaluation model, proposing that students’ performance in Classes 9, 10, and 11 should contribute to their Class 12 board results.

The suggestions were made in the report titled ‘Establishing Equivalence across Education Boards’ (released in the month of July).

The report suggested a progressive assessment framework for Classes 10 and 12. The new framework divides the academic year into two terms. The report also recommended that Class 12 board results to now include marks from Classes 9, 10, and 11.

The report mentioned, “The weightage of formative and summative marks will be adjusted progressively from class 9 to class 12, increasing the emphasis on summative assessment as learners advance in grades. Specifically, class 9 features a 7 per cent formative and 30 per cent summative split, class 10 an equal 50% formative and summative division, class 11 a 40 per cent formative and 60 per cent summative distribution, and class 12 a 30 per cent formative and 70 per cent summative ratio.”

“Consequently, the cumulative marks at the end of the secondary stage are 15 percent for class 9, 20 percent for class 10, 25 percent for class 11, and 40 percent for class 12,” the report mentioned. This means that students’ performance over the years will play a significant role in their final scores.

The suggested assessment framework for learners in classes 9 through 12 will employ a comprehensive approach that balances both, formative (ongoing) and summative (end-term) assessment methods to provide a holistic view of learners’ progress.

For classes 10 and 12, the assessment framework will be divided into two terms, the report suggests.
“Terms will feature Classroom Assessments through HPCs, involving Portfolio Assessment, Self Assessment, Peer Assessment, Teacher Observation, Group Work, and Laboratory activities,” it mentions.

The report also proposed the End Term Assessment will continue with competency-based assessments using ITMS, with teachers selecting from the question bank. Term II will introduce formative assessment with additional components such as Project Work, Paper Presentations with viva voice, and Group Discussions.

“The summative assessment will consist of a common paper consisting of Long Answers, Short Answers, Very Short Answers, and Multiple Choice Questions linking with the Learning Outcomes, based on the question paper design and blueprint,” the report mentions. (ANI)

News

National Conference and Congress have finally entered into a pre-poll alliance

by
Kharge and Rahul Gandhi

The National Conference and Congress have finally entered into a pre-poll alliance and decided to go for seat sharing on five seats only

“NC will field candidates from 51 seats while INC will contest on 32 seats,” the NC—Congress leaders said while addressing a news conference, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO)

However, they said that out of 32 seats, Congress will leave two seats, one each for CPI (M) and Panthers Party.As per KNO, J&K PCC chief Tariq Hameed Karra while sharing the details said that there will be a friendly contest on five seats in J&K, but in a very disciplined manner.

Kashmir Agriculture

SKUAST-K Innovation Centre Leads in Startups and Internationalisation; Momina Khan Wins Global Fellowship

by

The SKUAST-K Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship Centre is dedicated to guiding young innovators towards realising their startup potential. Its efforts have earned it the top spot as the leading incubator in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, as recognised by the Department of Science and Technology, Jammu and Kashmir on their official website. To date, the centre has established over 45 DPIIT-recognised startups, supported 35 intellectual properties, filed more than 70 patents, raised ₹23 crore in funding, and garnered 65 innovation awards. This is all achieved under the astute guidance of Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K.

In its mission to internationalise education, SKUAST-K, supported by the Department of Science and Technology in New Delhi under the Inclusive Technology Business Incubation Scheme, is fulfilling its commitment to the university’s fourth mandate: Innovations & Entrepreneurship. A prime example is Ms. Momina Khan, a serial graduate working on a novel sero-biotech idea (currently under patent) at the Innovation Centre. She has been awarded the prestigious international Innovation Fellowship “InteRussai” at Skoltech Innovation Centre, Moscow, to work under the mentorship of a global expert for one month. Skoltech will fully fund her fellowship.

Ms. Momina received mentorship from Naveed Hamid, CEO of SKIIE Centre, and support from the Dean, faculty members of COTS Mirgund, and university biotechnologists. Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir A. Ganai extended his congratulations to Ms. Momina and her mentors for this remarkable achievement. He also commended Prof. Haroon R. Naik, the SKIIE Board of Directors, and the SKIIE Centre team for their exceptional mentoring and commitment to internationalising the university’s innovation and entrepreneurship mandate.

Politics

Omar Abdullah Urges PDP to Refrain from Fielding Candidates Against NC-Congress Alliance

by

National Conference (NC) Vice President Omar Abdullah accused the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of “imitating” their manifesto and asked the Mehbooba Mufti-led party to not field candidates against the NC.

Addressing the public in Ganderbal, Omar Abdullah said, “They (PDP) should’ve made a different manifesto, we spoke of 200 units of electricity, and they also did. We spoke of one lakh jobs, and they also did. We spoke about the reopening of blocked roads, which is also there in their manifesto.

We spoke of open dialogue, which is also there in their manifesto. Everything in the National Conference’s manifesto is present in their (PDP’s) manifesto also.”

Omar Abdullah also urged the PDP to not field candidates against the NC-Congress alliance. Abdullah’s remarks come after Mehbooba Mufti showed willingness to support the NC-Congress alliance provided they support PDP’s agenda.

Omar Abdullah said, “They (PDP) said that if NC and Congress agree with their manifesto, then they will not launch their candidates. Now that all of our agenda is in your manifesto, there is no difference between our agendas, then you should remove your candidates from the election.

Earlier Mehbooba Mufti said that if the Congress-NC alliance are ready to accept PDP’s agenda they are ready to support them.

“The people of Jammu and Kashmir have given an answer to the BJP government from the Lok Sabha polls that there are issues in Jammu and Kasmir and by removing Article 370, it has become more complicated.

Whenever we allied with any party we had a motive, an agenda, what we have to do. That’s why I said that if they (Congress) are ready to accept our agenda, we are ready to support them,” Mufti said.

NC’s manifesto envisaged the restoration of the political and legal status of the Union Territory and said that the party would strive to restore Article 370-35A and statehood before August 5, 2019.

NC Manifesto has also promised free electricity for upto 200 units, a comprehensive job package for youth, and to encourage dialogue between India and Pakistan.

PDP released its manifesto after NC and along the same lines. PDP also mentioned the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A and diplomatic initiatives between India and Pakistan and ensure the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley.

Polling in Jammu and Kashmir will be conducted in three phases on September 18, 25, and October 1, according to the Election Commission of India. The counting of votes will take place on October 4.

These are the first assembly elections to be held in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370. (ANI)

Politics

Shiekh Ashiq likely contest Assembly Elections from Srinagar

by

Former Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Shiekh Ashiq is likely to contest Assembly Elections 2024 from Srinagar on AIP seat, sources on Sunday said.

Sources confirmed to Different News Agencies that Shiekh Ashiq will join active politics and talks are underway between Awami Ithehad Party led by Jailed MP Er. Rasheed.“Talks are going on between Engineer Rashid’s party and Sheikh Ashiq who is  prominent trade leader and former President of KCCI,” he said.

Sources further said in comming days, Shiekh Ashiq will join AIP in presence of senior leaders of the party. It will help AIP also for strong base in Srinagar city,” he said.

News / Politics

Finally Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir to Field Former Members as Independent Candidates in kashmir Assembly Elections

by

The Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir is set to field its former members as Independent candidates in several seats in the upcoming Assembly polls, The Indian Express has learnt.

Jamaat leaders had earlier said they are waiting for the Centre to lift the ban, in place under the UABASHAARAT MASOOPA since February 2019, with sources saying several rounds of talks had happened with the government. However, on Friday, the UAPA upheld the orders passed by the MHA declaring the Jamaat as an unlawful association under the Act.

Sources in the Jamaat said that following a meeting of its top body, it has been decided to field its former members as Independent candidates. “We have decided to field 10-12 members as Independents,” said a source from the organisation. “These will be in seats where we believe we have considerable support.”

In the first phase, the banned organisation is looking at around half a dozen seats, including Kulgam, Devsar, Bijbehara, Zainpora, Tral, Pulwama and Rajpora in south Kashmir.“We had a threadbare discussion on three options. The first was to form a front and fight under its banner; the second option was to be part of an alliance; and the third was to contest as Independents,” a source privy to the meeting said.

“While being part of any alliance was ruled out, the members were of the opinion that a front can’t be registered within a short time, and in any case such candidates will have to contest as Independents. So we went with the third option,” the source said, adding that those contesting will be former rukn or registered members of the Jamaat.

While the Jamaat has stayed away from the election since 1987, when they last participated under the banner of the Muslim United Front, it is eager to return to electoral politics to show its willingness to enter the mainstream.

“We are called a terror organisation, anti-democracy. We can’t contest elections as Jamaat members but we want to show that we believe in democracy, in the Constitution,” the source said.

“In the coming days, we will also take a decision on seats we will contest in the second and third phases.” A final call on candidates is awaited, sources said.

“We know we have very little time at hand, and by Sunday, we expect to come out with a list of candidates,” said the source. “We don’t know how state will react – whether they will accept the nomination or not.” (Indian Express)

News

 Watergam Sopore Gunfight Ends one Militant Killed and a Soldier Injured

by
dead

A militant was killed and a soldier injured in a gunfight in Watergam Sopore area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla on Saturday.

A top police officer told  that the firefight had ensued in the area this afternoon and reinforcement were rushed to neutralise the militants.In the initial gunfight, a soldier sustained injuries and was immediately evacuated to the hospital.

” The militant has been killed and with it the operation stands concluded,” the officer said. Identity and the group affiliation of the militant is being ascertained, he said.

A pistol along with some rounds and a grenade has been recovered at the shootout site, the officer added.(GNS)

Kashmir Education

Research Scholar S. Shahid Yaseen Successfully Defends PhD Viva Voce on Vocational Education in J&K

by

S Shahid Yaseen , Research Scholar, Department of Management Studies successfully defended his PhD open viva Voce. He worked on the title ‘Assessment of Vocational Education in developing Self-reliance among youth in J&K-with special reference to B.voc and Community Colleges’ under the supervision of Dr. Kafeel Ahmed, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies.

Politics

Dr Mehboob Beg of PDP Filed Nomination Papers for 44-Anantnag Assembly constituency

by

As nomination process continues in Anantnag District, one candidate filed his nomination papers today for the 44-Anantnag Assembly constituency, here.

Dr Mehboob Beg from JKPDP submitted his nomination papers in the office of Returning Officer 44-Anantnag AC. This was the first nomination filed so far in the district Anantnag.

The district comprises of seven (07) Assembly Constituencies, nominations for which can be filed till 27th August, 2024.

News

Shadi Lal Pandita dies in road accident on way back from Rahul Gandhi’s function in Jammu

by

Senior Congress leader Shadi Lal Pandita died in a road accident while returning from a function attended by party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi in Jammu on Thursday evening.

The accident occurred near Sidhra as Pandita was returning to Jagti migrant township. He was fatally crushed by a truck, officials said.Pandita, the vice chairman of the Kashmiri Migrant Cell, was a dedicated Congress leader and a prominent advocate for the cause of Kashmiri migrants.

“He remained associated with the party from his days in the Youth Congress,” said JKPCC chief spokesperson Ravinder Sharma.The Congress party’s leadership expressed deep shock over his demise and extended heartfelt condolences to his family.

Congress national general secretary Gulam Ahmed Mir, AICC in-charge Bharat Sinh Solanki, J and K Congress president Tariq Hameed Karra, party working presidents Tara Chand and Raman Bhalla, former minister Yogesh Sawhney, and PCC Migrant Cell chairman H L Pandita, along with Kamal Fotedar, mourned the loss of the leader.–(PTI)

News

19 Officers of Telecom Wing Honour With Ranks by Bhim Sen Tuti Inspector General of Police Telecom Services

by

The Inspector General of Police Telecom Services, Jammu & Kashmir, Bhim Sen Tuti, IPS presided over a piping ceremony today at the Police Headquarters Auditorium, where he conferred the rank of Sub-Inspector upon 19 recently promoted officers of the Telecom Wing.

The officers from the Telecom Kashmir Zone and ACS Zone Kashmir who were honored during the ceremony include: Shri Bashir Ahmad Reshi, Shri Nazir Ahmad Mir, Shri Aushum Ahmad, Shri Gulzar Ahmad Naikoo, Shri Gh. Ahmad Peer, Shri Gh. Mohd Ganai, Shri Fayaz Ahmad Mir, Shri Nasir Ahmad, Shri Javid Iqbal Pir, Shri Bashir Ahmad Lone, Shri Manzoor Ahmad Zargar, Shri Mohd Shafi Ganie, Shri Fayaz Ahmad Bhat, Shri Mohd Ashraf Wani, Shri Mehraj-ud-din Malla, Shri Ab. Rouf Shah, Shri Gh. Nabi Bhat and Shri Mohd Yousuf Tantray.

In his address, IGP Telecom Shri B.S. Tuti, IPS, extended heartfelt congratulations to the newly promoted officers and their families. He underscored the critical role of the Telecom Wing in the effective communication operations of the J&K Police and highlighted the ongoing efforts to upgrade and modernize the telecom infrastructure. Shri Tuti expressed his confidence that the promoted officers would continue to demonstrate the same level of zeal and dedication in their new roles, furthering the mission of excellence within the wing.

The ceremony was also graced by the presence of Director of Police Telecommunication J&K, Shri Manoj Kumar Pandith, JKPS, SP Telecom Kashmir Zone, Shri Fayaz Yaseen, SP Telecom ACS Kashmir, Shri Akhtar Buch, ADO PHQ, Shri Siraj-u-Din, along with other officers from the Telecom Headquarters.

News

I Re-Structured Party at District level again: Vikar Rasool

by

Former J&K PCC President Vikar Rasool Thursday said that in the past two years, Congress faced a big storm as the party’s 70 percent structure was dismantled but he along with his team worked hard to restructure the party again and today PCC is a strong and vibrant force in the UT.

Addressing the Congress worker’s meet in Srinagar, Vikar,  said that Congress suffered back to back jolts in the past two years and the party’s 70 per cent structure was dismantled. “I as a disciplined soldier of the party along with my team worked hard to re-structure the party and today result is before you,” he said as All India Congress Committee (AICC) president Malikarjun Kharge and senior party leader and leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi listened him patiently.

Vikar said that he was ready to shoulder any responsibility in the party. “If AICC leadership would assign me the charge of a chaprasi (peon), I would accept the post with a great honour and pride,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, former deputy chief minister of the erstwhile State, Tara Chand said in the past 10 years, J&K lost its identity, special status and what not. “Today, I want to say that Rahulji is playing Indhira Gandhji. Late Indhiraji would give a personal touch to the party and people of J&K whenever there were clouds of uncertainty. Rahulji has come with the same ideology and thinking,” Chand said.

Former J&KPCC chief Ghulam Ahmed Mir in his address said that it is a great pleasure to see AICC chief and leader of the opposition Rahul in J&K. “Your visit is a real morale booster for all the workers of PCC. You have come at a time when the poll bugle has already been blown. This will give a new impetus to the party indeed,” he said—(KNO)