Registrar of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Mr. Abhishek Sharma (IAS), chaired a comprehensive review meeting with Heads of various Teaching Departments and Administrative Officers to assess the progress of academics, admissions, examinations, hostel facilities, and other developmental projects of the University.
During the meeting, the Registrar reviewed the implementation of NEP-2020 in the University and directed the concerned officers to identify classrooms, furniture, and other essential amenities for newly established departments on priority to ensure the smooth conduct of classes.
The Registrar took stock of hostel facilities and instructed officials to provide the best possible amenities for resident students. He also reviewed the ongoing repair and renovation works and issued directions for the fast-track completion of hostel revamping in a time-bound manner.
Emphasizing the importance of efficiency and student support, the Registrar directed the concerned department to issue identity cards to all students, faculty, and staff within a week. He also reviewed the ongoing admission process and urged teaching departments to conclude the process strictly within the notified timelines.
Highlighting the need for modern academic infrastructure, the Registrar directed the creation of a centralized computing facility to cater to the needs of students across various departments. He also stressed the importance of digitization of records and asked the concerned departments to complete the task within the stipulated timeframe.
In line with the Government of India’s vision for community engagement, the Registrar urged teaching departments to adopt nearby villages for outreach activities, thereby strengthening the University’s role in inclusive and sustainable development.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Abhishek Sharma (IAS) reaffirmed the University’s commitment to providing quality education, improving infrastructure, and fostering holistic growth of students while aligning with the vision of NEP-2020.
Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri, in collaboration with the National Health Mission (NHM), Jammu & Kashmir, organised a one-day Professional Development Programme (PDM) for the medical staff here in the Lecture Hall, Mehra Campus.
The programme was specifically designed for healthcare professionals of the Pir Panjal region, covering the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch, and aimed at enhancing the skills, knowledge, and preparedness of medical professionals to strengthen healthcare delivery systems in this challenging terrain, which is prone to natural calamities.
The event was held as part of the Health and Medical Education Department’s deliverables and reflects the continuing commitment of GMC Rajouri and NHM J&K towards fostering continuous professional development and strengthening primary healthcare services.
The programme was graced by Mission Director, NHM J&K, Baseer Ul Haq Chaudhary. In his address, he emphasised the role of professional capacity building in improving healthcare outcomes and lauded the efforts of health professionals working in the Pir Panjal region under difficult circumstances.
Highlighting the Ayushman Bharat – Health & Wellness Centre (HWC) initiative, he said the primary healthcare is being transformed by integrating services for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), maternal and child health, adolescent health, mental health, palliative care and emergency services under the scheme. He added that the goal is not just to treat illnesses but to keep communities healthier, empowered, and better prepared for the health crisis, especially in geographically challenging locations such as Rajouri and Poonch.
He further spoke about the vital role of Medical Colleges in strengthening rural health coverage. “The GMCs, including GMC Rajouri, are not just institutions of medical education but are also becoming hubs of healthcare support for the region, offering specialised care, capacity building for frontline workers, research-driven solutions and training programmes,” he added.
In his address, Executive Director Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, Kakryal, Dr. Yashpal Sharma termed the JK SEHAT App a revolutionary step in making healthcare accessible, transparent and patient-friendly. “In a region like Jammu & Kashmir, where mountainous terrains and border areas often limit physical access to healthcare facilities, the SEHAT App ensures that healthcare reaches the people, rather than people reach healthcare,” he maintained.
The participants were oriented on key areas crucial for effective healthcare delivery, including JK SEHAT App – Ensuring health coverage and accessibility; Disaster Management & Experience Sharing; Role of Indian Army in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR); Implementation of Comprehensive Primary Health Care under NHM; Orientation on of NHM programs in J&K; Violence against Healthcare Professionals & Preventive Measures.
Speaking on the occasion, Principal GMC Rajouri Prof. (Dr) A.S. Bhatia highlighted the importance of regular professional development for equipping doctors and health staff with the tools required to address the unique health challenges in the Pir Panjal region, including natural calamities and disasters.
The sessions provided valuable insights into the functioning and scope of NHM, emphasising strengthened healthcare service delivery at the grassroots level. (ANI)
A grand cluster-level Mass Parent-Teacher Meeting was today held at Government Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS) Wagoora, drawing a large gathering of parents, teachers, students, and education authorities.
The program was graced by Advocate Irfan Hafeez Lone, MLA Wagoora-Kreeri, who attended as the chief guest. Among the distinguished participants were the Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Wagoora, School Management and Development Committee (SMDC) members, Cluster Coordinator Waqar Maqbool, Vice Principal Jaleel Ahmad Baigh, noted academician and Ex-Bureaucrat Mohammad Assadullah Rather, academician and social activist Naseer Ahmad Rather, all cluster teachers, besides a significant number of parents and students.
The proceedings began with a welcome note presented by Sadiq Ahmad, teacher, followed by deliberations on the importance of parent-teacher collaboration in ensuring academic success and moral development of children.
Cluster Coordinator Waqar Maqbool highlighted the cluster formation under NEP-2020 and explained its role in collaboration, resource sharing, and overall educational improvement. The Vice Principal, Jaleel Ahmad Baigh, presented the achievements of the school and cluster in sports, academics, and innovations.
As a parent,Naseer Ahmad Rather emphasized the vital role of parents in this era and spoke strongly about the menace of drugs and the urgent need for collective action to eradicate it from society.
The event also featured cultural performances, including a Rouf by KGBV Wagoora girls, Ladeshah by Zahid of BHSS Wagoora, and a Qawali by students of PS Watergam, which won huge appreciation from the audience.
Adding to the vibrancy of the meet, different stalls were installed at the cluster level, showcasing Teaching Learning Materials (TLMs), creative items, and articles prepared by students, reflecting their innovative spirit and talent.
In his keynote address, MLA Irfan Hafeez Lone lauded the initiative of organizing the meet at cluster level and underscored the importance of parent-teacher partnerships in shaping children’s futures. He assured full support for strengthening educational infrastructure in the area.
Other speakers, including the ZEO Wagoora, SMDC members, and senior teachers, stressed that these meetings act as a strong platform for reviewing progress, addressing challenges, and fostering cooperative academic environments.
At the end, the Principal of BHSS Wagoora, acting as host, extended heartfelt thanks to the dignitaries, guests, parents, teachers, and students. He particularly highlighted the significance of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) in bridging schools and communities.
All staff members of the school worked tirelessly to make the event a grand success. The program concluded with a collective pledge to work hand in hand for quality education, discipline, drug-free society, and holistic personality development of students.(KNS)
In a moment of immense pride for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, students from Kupwara and Jammu divisions had the rare and distinguished honour of celebrating Raksha Bandhan with the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan New Delhi.
Representing the Kashmir Division, Rumaisa Ahad of KGBV Kuligam, Lolab and Taqweem Qureshi of KGBV Hafradah, along with their escort teacher Irfan Ashraf, were part of the delegation. From the Jammu Division,Anshu Devi(Class 10) and Manvi Devi (Class 7) from Hr. Sec. School Jhiri, led by Preeti Agarwal, Senior Lecturer, proudly represented their region.
The young representatives tied Rakhi to the Hon’ble President, symbolising “love, respect, and cultural harmony that binds the people of India together.
Director School Education Kashmir Dr.G.N.Itoo congratulated the students, stating,
This is not just an honour for the participating students, but a proud moment for the entire J&K education fraternity They have carried the essence of our culture to the nation’s highest office.
The event provided a platform for showcasing the grace, confidence, and traditions of Jammu and Kashmir at the national level. It was a celebration of unity in diversity, as the students exchanged smiles, stories, and heartfelt moments with the Head of the State.
Opportunities like these inspire our students to dream bigger, aim higher, and represent our culture with dignity and pride, the Director,Dr.Itoo added.
This special interaction will remain etched in the hearts of the participants, serving as a source of motivation for thousands of students across the Union Territory.(KNS)
On Saturday, August 9, 2025, Additional Secretary Education Riffat Jabeen praised the intelligence, enthusiasm, and holistic development of students in remote areas during a mass Parent-Teacher Meeting (PTM) at Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS) Kullan in Ganderbal, central Kashmir. Speaking to Rising Kashmir, she described the event as a “big opportunity” and expressed amazement at the students’ capabilities, noting that schools in remote areas are well-developed and align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s focus on holistic growth.
Jabeen highlighted that while urban schools may have better facilities, rural students are performing remarkably well and deserve equal opportunities. She advocated for regular PTMs to strengthen parent-teacher connections and praised student-led stalls and exhibits as “impressive,” urging their continuation in rural areas. She also encouraged parents to ensure regular school attendance, affirming the Education Department’s support and the dedication of teachers.
Addressing staff shortages, Jabeen noted that the Education Department is undertaking rationalization at the CEO level to fill subject-specific vacancies. The PTM, part of a broader campaign under NEP-2020, was organized by the Education Department Ganderbal and DIET Ganderbal at cluster-level institutions, including Govt Higher Secondary School Gund, MS Ramwari, and Girls Higher Secondary School Ganderbal, with participation from nearby schools.
Chief Education Officer Ganderbal, Oneel Kumar, emphasized that the campaign spans cluster, zone, and district levels across government and registered private schools, urging parental support. Principal DIET Ganderbal, Manzoor Ahmad Najar, stressed the initiative’s goal of raising NEP-2020 awareness and committed to personally visiting schools to promote moral and ethical values among students.
Minister for Education Sakeena Masood Itoo led a record-breaking Parent-Teacher Meeting (PTM) across 3,561 schools in the Kashmir Division, organized by the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) under the PAIGAM initiative, aligned with NEP-2020’s vision of “Policy Action & Implementation for Growth and Awareness in Mentoring.” Nearly 2.94 lakh participants, including teachers, parents, students, and community members, engaged in the event to foster community involvement in education.
Speaking at Higher Secondary School DK Marg in Kulgam, Minister Itoo emphasized collaborative responsibility, stating, “When parents, teachers, and communities work together, every child wins.” The PTMs focused on reviewing student progress, boosting parental engagement, and involving civil society in school improvement. Activities included NEP-2020 briefings, parent-teacher consultations, and student-led presentations like project exhibitions and debates. Local leaders, NGOs, and retired educators contributed ideas on enhancing learning environments, environmental awareness, and tackling youth issues like drug abuse.
DSEK Director Dr. G.N. Itoo described PAIGAM as a movement to translate NEP-2020 into classroom action. The events followed strict DSEK guidelines, with cluster and complex heads ensuring coordination. Feedback was collected via suggestion boxes and forms, and progress was documented through attendance registers and Action Taken Reports for accountability. Senior officials, including Joint Directors, Project Officers, CEOs, and ZEOs, ensured inclusivity and effective follow-up.
Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), Rajouri, successfully organized the Valedictory Function marking the culmination of the pre-event series of activities conducted under the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme. The event celebrated the enthusiastic participation of students and the university’s ongoing commitment to youth engagement in nation-building.
Shri Rajinder Sapru, Principal District & Sessions Judge, Rajouri, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Mr. Abhishek Sharma, IAS, Registrar, BGSBU, lauded the efforts of the organizing team for the grand success of the programme. Highlighting the significance of the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision, he urged students to develop a scientific temperament and work proactively for the betterment of society. He underlined the transformative potential of youth and reiterated the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed India by 2047. On the occasion, he administered the Nasha Mukt Bharat Pledge under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, encouraging students to commit to a life free from substance abuse.
In his address,Shri Rajinder Sapru, Principal District & Sessions Judge, Rajouri, emphasized the indispensable role of youth in driving national progress. He warned against the growing menace of drug abuse and called on young people to take the lead in building a drug-free society. “No country can truly develop without the active and informed participation of its youth,” he stated. He also stressed the importance of staying connected with history to envision a better future.
Dr. Parwez Alam, Coordinator of the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme, delivered the welcome address and presented an overview of the diverse activities carried out under the initiative.
Three students delivered impactful presentations on the occasion including Mohd Zubair (Department of Islamic Studies) spoke on the Emergency Period in India – 1975.
Mr. Aneek (B.Tech ITE) highlighted key facets of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Areeba (B.Tech CSE) shared her insights on the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
On the occasion, Dr. Parwez Alam, HoD, Department of Psychiatry, GMC Rajouri, was felicitated for his outstanding contributions. Students who actively participated in the various pre-event activities were also awarded for their involvement and enthusiasm.
Mr. Vishal Pahari delivered the vote of thanks, and Dr. Tanveer Ahmed conducted the proceedings of the event.
The event was attended by Mr. Suneet Gupta, Nodal Officer of the Programme, the Controller of Examinations, Associate Deans, Heads and Coordinators of Departments, faculty members, and students from various departments of the university.
The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) hosted a landmark event focused on academia-industry collaboration, aimed at deliberating on the evolving tourism apprenticeship model in Jammu and Kashmir. The occasion marked the official launch of a Bachelor of Vocation (B.Voc) course in Tourism and Hospitality Management, to be offered by the Department of Management Studies, IUST. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the program is rooted in an apprenticeship-based learning model designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry demands.
The newly launched course is uniquely structured to provide students with hands-on experience, real-world exposure, and language proficiency—equipping them for improved employability and entrepreneurial opportunities in the tourism sector.
The event witnessed participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, including tourism professionals, hoteliers, travel operators, academic leaders, skill trainers, and policymakers. Key university officials such as the Dean of Academic Affairs, Director CIED, Director DIQA, and the Finance Officer were also in attendance. Industry bodies including PHDCCI J&K, KCCI , CII-J&K, and J&K Hajj and Umrah Services extended their support, along with prominent personalities like Dr. G. N. Itoo, Director School Education and former Director Tourism.
Vice Chancellor IUST, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, while speaking on the occasion, emphasized that tourism is a vital sector in Jammu and Kashmir’s economy. “This initiative demonstrates IUST’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates by integrating academic rigor with practical training in line with NEP 2020,” he remarked.
Dr. G. N. Itoo lauded the university’s efforts, stating that “The introduction of an apprenticeship-based B.Voc program in Tourism and Hospitality is a timely and strategic move that will nurture the skilled professionals and entrepreneurs needed for the sector’s sustainable growth.”
Industry leaders present at the event welcomed the program, emphasizing the urgent need for such collaborative academic interventions to enhance the quality of manpower and services in the tourism industry.
The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) today inaugurated its much-awaited Inter-departmental Athletic Meet 2025, turning its lush sports ground into a lively arena of competition, energy, and youthful spirit. The event drew enthusiastic participation from students across various departments, with both male and female athletes competing in a wide range of track and field events.
The opening ceremony was marked by a spirit of unity and celebration. Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, extended his best wishes to all participants. In his address, he emphasized the importance of sports and physical education in nurturing well-rounded individuals. “Athletics is not only about physical strength but also about discipline, teamwork, and mental resilience—qualities that are essential for success in life,” he said.
The meet was officially inaugurated by Mr. Murshid A Khan, Officer Incharge at the Directorate of Physical Education & Sports (DPES). He praised the vibrant participation and noted that such initiatives play a critical role in encouraging students to adopt healthier lifestyles. “Sports are not just extracurricular activities; they are a vital part of student life that promotes balance, leadership, and confidence,” Mr. Khan said.
Earlier, Dr. Hilal Ahmad Rather, Assistant Director of DPES, welcomed the students and staff to the athletic meet. He highlighted the role of sports in building a positive campus environment and stressed the value of healthy competition. “Events like this bring departments together and foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose among students,” he remarked.
Throughout the day, the field was filled with intense competition, cheers from the sidelines, and inspiring displays of talent and determination. Events included sprints, long-distance races, long jump, shot put, and relays, among others. The meet offered a platform not only for athletic excellence but also for camaraderie and sportsmanship among students.
The day concluded with a prize distribution ceremony where the winners were awarded medals and certificates in recognition of their outstanding performances. Faculty members and student supporters applauded the achievements, making it a memorable day for the university community.
The Inter-departmental Athletic Meet 2025 stands as a testament to IUST’s commitment to holistic education, where academic excellence goes hand-in-hand with physical fitness and personal development.
In a landmark achievement for the scientific community in Kashmir and India at large, 21-year-old Sadiq Ali Mir, hailing from the remote Labartal village in Budgam district, has been selected as an Astronaut Candidate (ASCAN) by the prestigious Titans Space Industries Inc., a private aerospace company based in the United States.
Mir’s selection marks the first time a youth from Jammu and Kashmir has been chosen for an international space mission of such calibre, symbolizing a leap forward for aspiring scientists and engineers from conflict-affected regions.
From Snowy Kashmir to the Stars
Born into a humble household in Labartal, Mir’s story is one of perseverance, ambition, and excellence. His early education took place at IPS School and Al-Asma Educational Institute, Budgam, followed by higher secondary education at Government Higher Secondary School, Sholipora. Despite limited resources, his academic journey was marked by determination and a deep fascination with space.
The turning point in his life came during a snowfall in Kashmir when he was in the 7th grade. “I saw a bright object moving across the sky and thought it was a comet,” Mir told Rising Kashmir. “Later in 8th grade, I learned it was the International Space Station. That moment planted the seed of my dream—to become an aerospace engineer and astronaut.”
Academic and Professional Excellence
In 2021, Mir secured admission to the prestigious RV College of Engineering (RVCE) in Bengaluru, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering in August 2025. During his time at RVCE, he distinguished himself academically and as a leader of student-led innovation.
He co-founded Team AeroAstro, a student-driven aerospace initiative focusing on electric aircraft and space technology. Under his leadership as Team Leader and Project Manager, the team developed groundbreaking research and prototypes, garnering attention from professionals in India and abroad. He currently serves as an advisor to the team.
Mir also co-authored two research papers presented at the Annual AESI CFD Conference at BIT Mesra, focusing on:
Supersonic aerodynamic analysis of performance reconnaissance aircraft via CFD
CFD-driven design and analysis of a novel SR-72 Variant
He further served as Lead Systems Engineer for a lunar rover project at Milo Mission Academy, a collaborative initiative backed by NASA.
Titans Space Industries and the 2029 Mission
Following a rigorous selection process, Mir was chosen as an Astronaut Candidate (ASCAN) for Engineering and Development by Titans Space Industries Inc. His selection involved multiple technical assessments, personal interviews, and a background check by senior leaders at Titans, including:
CEO Neal Lachman
Chief Astronaut William McArthur (former NASA astronaut and U.S. Army Colonel)
CTO Franklin Ratliff
The upcoming 2029 mission, in which Mir will participate, will be commanded by William McArthur and Marcos Pontes—Brazil’s first astronaut and the current Deputy Chief Astronaut at Titans. The mission will focus on:
Orbital operations
Scientific experimentation in space
Long-duration habitation
Advancing sustainable space exploration
Mir’s involvement is a recognition of his exceptional academic record, innovative contributions, and leadership in student aerospace projects.
Further Education and International Recognition
In addition to his astronaut training, Mir has secured admission to the Master’s in Space Systems program at Kepler Space University in Florida. Here, he will specialise in space systems design and mission planning, further aligning his academic trajectory with his mission role.
“This opportunity is not just about personal success,” said Mir. “It’s about representing India, Kashmir, and my alma mater RVCE on the global aerospace stage. I carry this responsibility with immense pride and humility.”
Acknowledgements and Gratitude
Mir credits his journey to the support of his family, mentors, and peers. He expressed special thanks to:
Suhana Arsh – friend and supporter
Vaseema Hussain – mentor and guide
Titans Space leadership including Neal Lachman, Dr. V Vijay, Marcus Beaufort, and Franklin Ratliff
He also acknowledged faculty members at RVCE, including:
Dr. K.N. Subramanya
Dr. Ravindra S. Kulakarni
Dr. Promio Charles F
Dr. Supreeth R
Dr. Benjamin Rohit
Group Captain Deepak Bana
Mr. George Salazar
A New Chapter for Kashmir
Mir’s selection as an astronaut candidate is more than just a personal victory—it’s a symbol of hope and inspiration for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, especially those who dream of scientific careers in the face of adversity. His journey exemplifies that with talent, vision, and perseverance, even the most distant dreams can be reached.
As he trains for the 2029 mission, Sadiq Ali Mir stands as a proud ambassador of Budgam, of Kashmir, and of the boundless human spirit that dares to reach for the stars.
