IUST Organizes Free AYUSH Medical Camp in Gooripora Under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan

AYUSH Medical Camp

Extending its healthcare outreach to adopted villages under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan, the Centre for AYUSH Science, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) organized a free medical and awareness camp at Gooripora on July 31, 2025. The camp provided doorstep medical consultations, free medicines, and preventive health guidance to underserved communities.

About 200 patients received care, with women constituting a significant majority. Medical experts screened residents for prevalent ailments, including anaemia, locomotory disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and skin conditions. Free medicines were also distributed during the camp.

Dr. Arsheed A. Ganaie, Coordinator, Centre for AYUSH Science, emphasized the university’s commitment to accessible healthcare: “This camp reflects IUST’s resolve to bridge healthcare gaps in rural areas through AYUSH systems. The overwhelming participation, especially by women, underscores the community’s trust in our initiatives.” The effort was supported by Dr. Tabasum Fatima, and University Outreach team. Gooripora is among five villages—including Larkipora, Padgampora, Rajpora Ullar, and Barsoo—adopted by IUST under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan. Residents lauded the university for bringing essential healthcare services to their doorstep, noting the camp’s role in supporting economically vulnerable populations. Similar camps will be organized in Larkipora, Rajpora Ullar, and Barsoo, reaffirming IUST’s focus on integrating traditional medicine systems into community wellness programs.

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BGSBU Hosts ‘Yuwa Samwad’ to Empower Youth in Fight Against Drug Abuse under Viksit Bharat Programme

Yuwa Samwad

Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) successfully organized “Yuwa Samwad” (Youth Dialogue) on the theme “Drug Free India: Role of Youth in Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan” under the Viksit Bharat Youth Connect Programme. Held on the University campus, the event emphasized the vital role of youth in combating drug abuse and contributing towards the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The event was presided over by Mr. Abhishek Sharma (IAS), Registrar of BGSBU, who served as the Chief Guest. In his comprehensive and thought-provoking keynote address, Mr. Sharma explored the theme from multiple dimensions. He stated, “Educational institutions must not limit their role to academic excellence alone. They must emerge as catalysts of social transformation, particularly in the context of achieving Viksit Bharat 2047.”

He further added, “Youth are the real change agents of our society. Their energy, enthusiasm, and innovative thinking are the keys to driving meaningful change and creating a drug-free India.”

Mr. Abhishek Sharma, IAS, also stressed the need for dialogue and awareness, saying, “A drug-free society can only be built through collective responsibility. Educational institutions must actively create spaces for open conversations, guidance, and community support.”

During the interactive segment of the session, Mr. Abhishek Sharma, IAS, directly engaged with students and faculty, answering questions and addressing concerns. He noted, “Interaction is the foundation of understanding. When we listen to our youth and respond meaningfully, we empower them to take ownership of the nation’s future.”

A key highlight of the event was the “Yuwa Samwad” competition, where two student teams presented innovative ideas for a drug-free India. The presentations were judged by Dr. Shams Kamal Anjum and Dr. Tasleem Arif. On the occasion, Dr. Shams Kamal Anjum, Associate Dean of Students, delivered a presentation highlighting a multidimensional strategy to combat substance abuse through education, awareness, and community collaboration.

Dr. Parvez Alam, Chief Proctor, delivered the welcome address. Dr. Gulfam Ahmed, Coordinator of the Programme, proposed the vote of thanks. The proceedings were conducted by Mr. Vishal Pahari.

Also present on the occasion were Dr. A.A. Shah, Associate Dean, School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, along with faculty members and students from various departments of the university.

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CM Omar Abdullah Attends 9th Convocation of SKUAST-Jammu, Applauds Role of Women in Agri-Education

9th Convocation of SKUAST-Jammu

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday attended the 9th Convocation of SKUAST-Jammu.

In a post on X, Office of CM wrote ,”Chief Minister attended the 9th Convocation of SKUAST-Jammu. He lauded the role of agricultural scientists, faculty & students in driving innovation and called for farmer-centric research to build a self-reliant J&K.”

“At SKUAST-Jammu’s 9th Convocation, Chief Minister applauded the outstanding performance of girl students securing 252 out of 446 degrees, 7 of 8 gold medals, and 32 of 35 merit certificates. A shining example of women excelling in agri-education and research,”the post reads.

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Chinar Book Festival 2025: Kashmir’s Largest Literary Event Draws Record Crowds, Celebrates Culture, Language, and Community

chinar book festival

The second edition of the Chinar Book Festival, held from August 2 to 10, 2025, at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, has emerged as a landmark event in Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural and literary landscape. Organized by the National Book Trust, India (NBT), in collaboration with the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL) and the Srinagar District Administration, this nine-day festival has drawn unprecedented crowds, showcasing a vibrant celebration of literature, culture, and community engagement. Following the success of its inaugural edition in 2024, this year’s fair has solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of the region’s intellectual calendar, fostering a renewed love for reading among diverse audiences.

A Grand Literary Gathering

Set against the scenic backdrop of Dal Lake, the Chinar Book Festival 2025 featured over 200 publishers and bookstalls from across India, offering a diverse array of titles in languages including English, Hindi, Urdu, Kashmiri, Dogri, and other Indian languages. The festival’s scale was evident in its expansive offerings, ranging from children’s books and academic works to regional literature and digital content, catering to readers of all ages. The event was inaugurated on August 2 by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who emphasized the festival’s role in advancing culture and civilization through literature.

Muhammad Afzal Lone, a renowned publisher from Kashmir and representative of Millat Publishers & Distributors, described the remarkable turnout on the second day of the fair. He noted, “It wasn’t just a crowd, but to my surprise, they showed great enthusiasm in buying books — far beyond my expectations. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds.” Lone highlighted the significant participation of elders and young people, particularly from the Muslim community, who actively purchased books at his stall, underscoring the festival’s appeal across generations. He also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with friends and well-wishers, stating, “Many of my companions, well-wishers, and friends also came to meet me — and they bought books too. I also had the opportunity to reconcile with a few estranged friends and clear up past misunderstandings. All praise be to Allah.” His comments reflect the festival’s role as both a literary and social platform, fostering community bonds.

Diverse Events and Cultural Highlights

The Chinar Book Festival offered a rich tapestry of events designed to engage and inspire attendees. Daily sessions included children’s activities in the mornings, book releases and author interactions in the afternoons, and cultural performances in the evenings. Key attractions included:

  • Rajtarangini Samvad: Workshops and panel discussions exploring the historical and literary significance of the classical Kashmiri text, Rajtarangini, fostering dialogue on Kashmir’s heritage.
  • Sharda Script Exhibition: The ‘Saradaksarani’ exhibition showcased the ancient Sharda script, highlighting its historical importance in the region.
  • Gojri Translation Workshop: A pioneering initiative to produce bilingual books in Hindi, Urdu, Dogri, Kashmiri, and English, promoting linguistic diversity.
  • Tamil-Kashmiri Samvad: Under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative, this cultural exchange highlighted shared traditions between Tamil and Kashmiri communities.
  • Mahfil-e-Afsana and Chinar Talks: Sessions featuring Urdu writers like Deepak Tanwal, Dr. Mushtaq Mehdi, and Dr. Nazir, alongside Kashmiri child litterateur Akhtar Hussain and artists like Veer Munshi and Vishal Bhardwaj.
  • Children’s and Youth Activities: Workshops on creative writing, calligraphy, storytelling, and emotional intelligence, along with the Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya digital platform, engaged young readers.

The festival also hosted book releases, such as The Shade of Swords by M.J. Akbar and the Urdu edition of Fault Lines in the Faith, organized by the Khusro Foundation. Performances by local artists like Wahid Jilani and bands like Kabir Café added cultural vibrancy, blending literature with music and art.

Community Engagement and Impact

The festival attracted a diverse audience, including men, women, elderly individuals, and children, all united by a passion for books. Lone specifically noted the enthusiastic participation of the youth in Urdu books, stating, “The interest of the youth in Urdu books has been highly encouraging.” He also praised the organizers, saying, “The organisers have done a commendable job with the arrangements, for which I am very thankful.” His observations highlight the festival’s success in engaging young readers and its meticulous organization, which contributed to its welcoming atmosphere.

The event’s inclusivity was evident in its appeal to varied demographics. Students from institutions like SKIMS Medical College, Government Dental College, and NIT participated actively, showcasing their talents. Parents like Saima Rashid and Uzair Ahmad emphasized the importance of exposing children to diverse literature, with many purchasing numerous titles to encourage reading habits. The festival’s free entry and special discounts enhanced accessibility, drawing over 100,000 visitors in 2024, with expectations of even higher turnout in 2025.

Promoting Regional Literature and Reading Culture

A key focus of the festival was promoting Urdu and Kashmiri literature, with significant youth interest in Urdu books, as Lone observed. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha called for the promotion and translation of Kashmiri, Pahari, Gojri, Dogri, Urdu, and Punjabi literature to reach wider audiences. Yuvraj Malik, Director of NBT, emphasized the festival’s aim to build a robust reading culture in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly among the youth. Dr. Shams Iqbal of NCPUL described the event as a historic initiative fostering harmony among Indian languages. The digital reading zone, featuring the Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya platform, provided free access to thousands of e-books, blending traditional and modern reading experiences.

A Vision for the Future

The Chinar Book Festival 2025 has been hailed as a transformative event, with Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan envisioning it as a permanent fixture in Srinagar’s cultural calendar. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha echoed this sentiment, aiming to elevate it to a national-level event. Lone’s assessment that “among all the book fairs held till now, this one seems to be moving steadily towards great success” underscores its growing prominence. Organizers, including Chief Convener Dr. Amit Wanchoo and NBT Chairman Milind Sudhakar Marathe, highlighted the festival’s role in uniting people through literature and heritage.

Conclusion

The Chinar Book Festival 2025 has reaffirmed Kashmir’s historical significance as a center of knowledge and storytelling. With its diverse offerings, enthusiastic participation, and focus on regional literature, the festival has become a vibrant celebration of ideas, culture, and community. Muhammad Afzal Lone’s heartfelt thanks to friends and supporters, combined with his observations of the fair’s success, encapsulate its impact: a platform where books inspire, connections are forged, and Kashmir’s literary heritage thrives. As the festival continues to grow, it promises to nurture a lasting love for reading and cultural exchange for generations to come.

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LG Manoj Sinha Inaugurates Chinar Book Festival in Srinagar, Calls for Literary Revival and Historical Rewriting

 Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended the ‘Chinar Book Festival’ organised by National Book Trust of India at Srinagar.

The inaugural event was also graced by Union Education Minister, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor congratulated the Union Ministry of Education and the National Book Trust for providing an opportunity to the readers to keep track of new ideas and perspectives and interact with eminent writers and scholars from across the country.

“The books open the window to the world. Books offer new ideas and fresh perspectives that change the way we perceive things and promote critical thinking. Chinar Book Festival will connect the new generation to our precious literary heritage and inspire them to preserve and promote our traditional wisdom left behind by our ancestors,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor called upon the writers to think about rewriting the history to correct the facts, which were distorted in the past.

“New generation must be made aware that our civilization was economically prosperous and it was also the global centre of literature, science and spirituality.

Ancient India was the engine of world civilization and culture. We gave the gift of science, mathematics, medicines to the world and we should be proud of our cultural, literary, scientific and spiritual heritage.

The roots of our knowledge and science have always been immense. We need to liberate ourselves from the colonial mindset and the new generation must be told that our heritage has been leading in the world and the gift of science that we have given to the entire humanity is incomparable,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is witnessing economic, cultural and scientific renaissance, simultaneously. He said, in order to strengthen the nation’s spiritual, social, and emotional unity, the unique contributions of writers and thinkers are essential.

The Lieutenant Governor, in his address, emphasised on reviving India’s ancient knowledge system and make it a part of mainstream education.

He called upon the National Book Trust to publish and translate the Nilamat Purana, Rajatarangini, and Kathasaritsagara into various Indian languages.

These editions in regional language should also be prominently featured at international book festivals to introduce the world to J&K’s unique literary heritage, he added.

The Lieutenant Governor further asked the National Book Trust to actively promote famous literature from Kashmiri, Pahari, Gojri, Dogri, Urdu, and Punjabi at book festivals and ensure their translation into various languages to reach a wider audience.

The event also witnessed the inauguration of ‘Saradaksarani’- First National Exhibition of Sharada Alphabets, and Kashmiri Translation of book titled “Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh-through the ages”. The winners of Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya Amrit Kaal Story Writing Competition were also announced.

Prof. Milind Sudhakar Marathe, Chairman, National Book Trust; Shri Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Prof. Raghuvendra Tanwar, Chairman Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR); Dr Amit Wanchoo, Chief Convener, Chinar Book Festival; Shri Yuvraj Malik, Director, National Book Trust; Vice heads of various educational institutions, senior officials, eminent literary personalities, book lovers, youth and children in large number were present.

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Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) Hosts Awareness Talk on Drug Abuse Under Viksit Bharat Youth Connect Programme

Ghulam Shah Badshah University

Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, under the banner of the Viksit Bharat Youth Connect Programme, organized a special awareness talk on the theme ‘Impact of Drug Abuse on Youth and Society’. The event aimed to educate and engage the university’s youth on the alarming issue of drug abuse and its far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and society.

Vice Chancellor, Prof.Jawaid Iqbal lauded the initiative as an important step toward shaping a responsible and drug-free youth.

Registrar of the University Mr. Abhishek Sharma, IAS, underlined the importance of sustained efforts and community engagement in building a resilient and empowered student community. He emphasized that such programs reflect the university’s commitment to nation-building in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Parvaiz Alam, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, GMC Rajouri (J&K). Dr. Alam delivered a compelling and informative session outlining the psychological, physiological, and social impacts of drug abuse. He provided real-life illustrations and practical strategies for early identification, prevention, and recovery, while also encouraging peer support and institutional intervention.

Mr. Shivender Mehta delivered the welcome address and introduced the theme to the audience.Dr. Shafqat Mughal, Principal, Polytechnic in his talk highlighted the role of educational institutions in shaping youth behavior and values. Dr. Abdul Hannan Khan extended the vote of thanks He acknowledged the continuous support from university leadership and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure a safe and healthy environment for students.

The event witnessed the presence of Dr. Pervez Alam, Coordinator, Viksit Bharat – Yuva Connect Programme, along with Dr. Gulfam Ahmed and Dr. Shoaib Ahmed, in addition to several faculty members, staff, and students from various departments.

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IUST Hosts 24-Hour Hackathon to Boost Innovation, Industry Collaboration, and Student Employability

Hackathon

With the aim to promote innovation and enhance industry-academia collaboration, the Islamic University of Science and Technology

(IUST) hosted a 24-hour Hackathon from July 31 to August 1, 2025. The event was organized by the Centre for Career Counselling and Placements (3CP@IUST), under the Office of Dean Outreach, in collaboration with People10

Technologies Inc., a US-based technology solutions company.

Exclusively designed for B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering students of the university, the Hackathon brought together four student teams who worked intensively on real-world problem statements provided by the industry partner.

The initiative aimed to nurture problem-solving abilities, encourage teamwork, and provide students with hands-on industry exposure.

The event was coordinated by Mr. Basharat Masoodi, Placement Officer IUST, and was attended by Dean Outreach, (Head, 3CP), Head, Department of Computer Science and Engineering), and (AR-Research). Top-performing participants will be offered job opportunities as Software Engineers and Automation Engineers at People10 Technologies Inc.

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IUST Concludes Workshop on Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure Development in J&K’s Multi-Hazard Himalayan Region

Disaster-Resilient

The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) successfully concluded a three-day Training and Capacity Building Workshop on “Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure Development”, held from July 28 to 30. The event aimed to strengthen disaster preparedness and promote safer infrastructure in the hazard-prone Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir.

Organised by the Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction (CDRR) in collaboration with the Departments of Civil Engineering and Architecture, IUST, and the J&K Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRRR), the workshop brought together engineers, researchers, government officials, and students from across the region.


Focus on Safer Infrastructure in Seismic Zone

During the inaugural session, Prof. V. K. Gaur (Former Director, National Geophysical Research Institute) stressed the region’s vulnerability to earthquakes. IUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo called for urgent focus on disaster-resilient infrastructure, while Ms. Snober Jameel (Deputy Secretary, JKDMRRR) and Dr. Muzaffar Ahmad (Former Member, NDMA) highlighted the need for stronger policies, early warning systems, and enforcement of building codes.


Valedictory Session and Key Discussions

The valedictory session, chaired by Prof. Romshoo, included a panel discussion on key outcomes. Dr. Irfan Maqbool Bhat, Assistant Professor and Coordinator of CDRR, presented a detailed summary. Certificates were awarded to participants from departments like Public Works (R&B), DDMA, SMC, SDA, and academic institutions.


Hands-On Learning and Expert Talks

The workshop featured field visits to IUST’s Structural, Geotechnical, and Materials Labs, including the CIED Ultra-Tech Lab, offering participants hands-on demonstrations.

Expert sessions covered:

  • Seismic vulnerability and rapid visual screening (RVS)
  • Challenges in DPR preparation
  • Pitfalls of cost-based bidding in infrastructure projects
  • Role of traditional and hybrid housing designs in disaster safety

Speakers included Er. Afzal Ahmad (PWD), Dr. Muazim Jan (CSIR-4PI, Bengaluru), Dr. Midhat Fayaz (UoK), and Ar. Mehran Qureshi (IUST), who provided ground-level insights on infrastructure challenges in Jammu & Kashmir.


Promoting a Culture of Preparedness

The workshop successfully fostered awareness and shared practical tools for making infrastructure in J&K more resilient to disasters. Experts praised IUST’s growing role as a knowledge hub for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) in the region.


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Dr. Shaheena Akhtar Becomes First Female PhD in Persian from Nowgam Sonawari, Inspiring Young Women Across Kashmir

Dr Shaheena

In a remarkable achievement that has filled the hearts of Kashmiris with pride, Dr. Shaheena Akhtar has become the first female PhD scholar in Persian from the Nowgam Sonawari area of North Kashmir. Her historic accomplishment is being hailed as a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless young women aspiring to pursue higher education, especially in classical languages and literature.

Dr. Shaheena’s academic journey has not only broken barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field but also highlighted the importance of reviving interest in Persian — a language deeply rooted in Kashmir’s literary and cultural history.

A Trailblazer in Her Field

Hailing from a modest background in Nowgam Sonawari, Dr. Shaheena displayed a deep passion for learning from an early age. Despite the challenges faced by women in rural areas, she pursued her education with unwavering determination. Her choice of Persian, a subject often overlooked in modern academia, reflects her love for literature, culture, and heritage.

After years of rigorous study and research, Dr. Shaheena completed her doctorate, making history not only in her village but also in the broader academic landscape of the valley.

A Moment of Pride

Her success has been widely celebrated by the local community, educators, and women’s rights advocates. Locals gathered at her residence to congratulate her and express their admiration for her dedication and perseverance.

“She is a source of pride not just for Nowgam, but for all of Kashmir. Her achievement proves that with dedication and the right support, our daughters can shine in every field,” said a senior teacher from the area.

Reviving a Rich Legacy

Persian has historically held a special place in Kashmir’s literary and intellectual traditions. Many classical works of Kashmiri poets and historians were composed in Persian, and the language once served as the official language of the region during several dynasties.

Dr. Shaheena’s work contributes to preserving and promoting this rich heritage, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their roots. Her doctoral research, focused on classical Persian literature and its influence on Kashmiri Sufi poetry, has been praised by academics for its depth and relevance.

A Role Model for Young Women

In an era where access to higher education remains a challenge for many girls in rural Kashmir, Dr. Shaheena’s journey stands as a powerful reminder of what is possible. Her success sends a strong message about gender equality, the importance of education, and the transformative power of perseverance.

She hopes her achievement will encourage other young women in the valley to pursue their academic dreams fearlessly.

“I dedicate this success to all the girls of Kashmir who dream big. Never stop believing in yourself,” Dr. Shaheena said in a heartfelt message.

Looking Ahead

With her doctorate now complete, Dr. Shaheena Akhtar plans to continue her academic journey through teaching and research. She aims to work closely with educational institutions and cultural organisations to promote Persian studies and mentor young students, especially girls, interested in classical languages.

Her life and work will undoubtedly serve as a source of encouragement for generations to come — a shining example of what determination, intellect, and courage can achieve in the face of odds.

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IUST Signs MoU with Ministry of Education to Implement Apprenticeship Training Scheme Under NEP 2020

Ministry of Education

The Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Board of Apprenticeship Training (Northern Region), under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, in the presence of the Union Minister of Education and senior officials, including the Secretary, Higher Education, Government of India. This MoU was signed during Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Samagam 2025 in New Delhi which was yesterday inaugurated by the Union Minister of Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, to commemorate 5 years of NEP 2020 and aims to facilitate the implementation of the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) at IUST in J&K.

NATS is a flagship initiative of the Government of India designed to provide structured on-the-job training to graduates and diploma holders, bridging the gap between academic learning and industrial requirements. The MoU focuses on providing structured apprenticeship opportunities for IUST students, fostering industry-academia collaboration to ensure real-world exposure and skill enhancement, and aligning academic programs with the goals of NEP 2020 by incorporating apprenticeships and internships as an integral part of holistic education.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor of IUST, emphasized that this MoU marks a significant step toward realizing the vision of NEP 2020 in J&K, which places a strong emphasis on experiential learning through apprenticeships, internships, and hands-on training. He stated that by integrating NATS into the university’s academic framework, IUST aims to create a seamless transition for students from classrooms to workplaces. He added that the collaboration will enhance the employability of students

This partnership with the Ministry of Education, Government of India, marks an important milestone in IUST’s efforts to strengthen institutional-industry collaboration and build sustainable pathways for student employability and professional growth, thereby contributing to the development of a skilled workforce in Jammu & Kashmir.

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