NEET UG 2025 Begins Nationwide Amid Tight Security and High Aspirations

NEET UG 2025

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate courses (NEET UG 2025) is being conducted across the country on Sunday by the National Testing Agency (NTA), with thousands of aspiring medical students appearing at various examination centers across the nation.
Lakhs of students participate in the exam every year, which determines admission to MBBS, BDS, and other undergraduate medical courses in India.
Visuals from examination centres in different parts of the nation showed candidates gathering early at exam centres amid tight security.
Rajkumar Prasad, a NEET aspirant from Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal, shared his hopes ahead of the exam: ” This is my second attempt. During my first attempt, I couldn’t score a good mark. I hope I can score well this time, unlike last time.”
While another student, Gunjan Gulati, said,” I have prepared very well. I am very confident…I have 100% confidence that I will clear the exam. This is my first attempt”
Anamika Kumari, a NEET aspirant from West Bengal’s Siliguri, said, ” Preparations have been done well. I just need to give exams now…fear is there…”
Earlier, NTA on Saturday said that all preparations for the safe and secure conduct of the examination have been completed, and state governments across the country have been placed on high alert.
The security push comes in the aftermath of the NEET-UG 2024 controversy, which saw allegations of paper leaks, inflated marks, and legal battles over grace marks, prompting widespread protests and judicial scrutiny. This year, the NTA has taken “all measures” to ensure the integrity of the exam.
Candidates will undergo thorough checks by district police, in addition to NTA’s standard security protocols, before entering exam centres. Question papers and OMR sheets will be transported under complete police protection to prevent tampering or leaks.
Authorities will closely monitor coaching centres and online platforms to prevent organised cheating networks. Exam centres will be equipped with CCTV cameras to ensure transparency and accountability. (ANI)

IUST’s Journalism Department Hosts Seminar on National Education Policy 2020 with Focus on Experiential Learning

IUST

The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) in Awantipora, Pulwama, organized a seminar on May 2, 2025, to discuss the transformative potential of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, with a particular emphasis on experiential learning. The event, held at the IUST campus, brought together educators, students, and media professionals to explore how NEP 2020’s focus on hands-on, practical learning can reshape journalism education and align it with the demands of the 21st-century media landscape.

Seminar Overview and Objectives

Titled “National Education Policy 2020: Transforming Education through Experiential Learning,” the seminar aimed to unpack the key provisions of NEP 2020 and their implications for journalism education. The event highlighted the policy’s shift from rote memorization to a learner-centric, experiential approach that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem-solving. By focusing on journalism, a field inherently tied to practical skills and ethical decision-making, the seminar sought to bridge the gap between academic theory and industry practice.

The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at IUST, known for its commitment to interdisciplinary and socially responsible education, organized the event to align with the university’s broader mission of nurturing a “socially responsible student community capable of making a difference at the local, regional, and global level”. The seminar featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, with contributions from academic experts, practicing journalists, and policy analysts.

NEP 2020 and Experiential Learning: Key Highlights

The National Education Policy 2020, introduced by the Government of India, marks a significant overhaul of the country’s educational framework. It emphasizes holistic, flexible, and multidisciplinary learning, moving away from traditional content-heavy curricula toward pedagogy that prioritizes critical thinking, creativity, and practical application. A cornerstone of NEP 2020 is experiential learning, which involves hands-on activities, project-based learning, and real-world applications to deepen students’ understanding and skill development.

In the context of journalism education, experiential learning is particularly relevant. The seminar underscored how NEP 2020 encourages journalism programs to integrate practical exercises—such as newsroom simulations, field reporting, and multimedia storytelling—into their curricula. These methods allow students to engage actively with the material, apply theoretical knowledge in real-life scenarios, and develop essential skills like critical thinking, ethical reporting, and collaboration. As one speaker noted, “Journalism is not just about learning facts; it’s about doing—going out, reporting, and reflecting on the experience.”

Key aspects of NEP 2020 discussed at the seminar included:

  • Holistic Development: The policy promotes the integration of co-curricular activities, ethics, and cultural learning to produce well-rounded journalists who are not only skilled but also socially and ethically aware.
  • Active Engagement: Experiential learning encourages students to participate in hands-on activities like producing news stories, creating podcasts, or engaging in investigative projects, making learning more engaging and relevant.
  • Personalized Learning: NEP 2020 advocates for flexible curricula that cater to individual interests, allowing journalism students to specialize in areas like data journalism, environmental reporting, or digital media.
  • Technology Integration: The policy emphasizes the use of digital tools, such as virtual labs and multimedia platforms, to enhance journalism education and prepare students for a tech-driven media industry.

Seminar Proceedings and Insights

The seminar began with a keynote address by a senior faculty member from IUST’s Department of Journalism, who outlined the relevance of NEP 2020 for journalism education. The speaker highlighted how experiential learning aligns with the field’s practical nature, citing studies that show hands-on learning improves students’ critical thinking and professional readiness. For instance, a 2007 study from the University of Sheffield found that experiential learning in journalism education simulates real-world practice, preparing students for the challenges of the profession.

A panel discussion followed, featuring journalists from local and national media outlets. Panelists emphasized the need for journalism curricula to incorporate real-world experiences, such as internships, field visits, and live reporting projects, as advocated by NEP 2020. One panelist shared, “The media industry values journalists who can think on their feet and adapt to new challenges. Experiential learning under NEP 2020 ensures students are job-ready.” The discussion also touched on the importance of reflective practices, such as maintaining reflective journals, to help students process and learn from their experiences.

Students from the department participated in an interactive session, where they showcased projects aligned with experiential learning principles. These included a student-produced documentary on local issues in Pulwama and a podcast series exploring social challenges in Kashmir. The projects demonstrated how NEP 2020’s focus on project-based learning can empower students to address real-world issues through journalism.

Challenges and Recommendations

While the seminar celebrated the potential of NEP 2020, it also addressed challenges in implementing experiential learning in journalism education. Faculty members noted that large-scale heterogeneity in classrooms, limited resources, and a lack of trained educators familiar with experiential methods pose significant hurdles. In rural areas like Pulwama, infrastructure gaps, such as limited access to digital tools, further complicate the adoption of technology-driven experiential learning.

To overcome these challenges, the seminar proposed several recommendations:

  • Teacher Training: Continuous professional development programs to equip educators with skills in experiential pedagogy, such as designing simulations and assessing project-based work.
  • Resource Development: Collaboration with media organizations to provide students with access to newsrooms, studios, and digital platforms for hands-on learning.
  • Policy Support: Clear guidelines from regulatory bodies like the University Grants Commission (UGC) to standardize experiential learning practices in journalism programs.
  • Industry Partnerships: Stronger ties between universities and media houses to facilitate internships, mentorships, and live projects, aligning academic training with industry needs.

IUST’s Commitment to NEP 2020

IUST’s Department of Journalism and Mass Communication is actively aligning its curriculum with NEP 2020’s vision. The department has introduced courses that emphasize multimedia storytelling, data journalism, and community reporting, all designed to incorporate experiential learning. The university’s broader commitment to interdisciplinary learning and social responsibility, as stated on its website, complements NEP 2020’s goals of fostering critical thinkers and global citizens.

The seminar also highlighted IUST’s efforts to integrate technology into journalism education, such as using virtual labs and interactive multimedia, as recommended by NEP 2020. These initiatives aim to prepare students for a rapidly evolving media landscape, where skills in digital content creation and data analysis are increasingly in demand.

Impact and Future Directions

The seminar sparked meaningful dialogue about the future of journalism education in the context of NEP 2020. Students expressed enthusiasm for experiential learning, noting that hands-on projects made their education more engaging and relevant. Faculty members committed to revising curricula to incorporate more project-based assessments and reflective practices, aligning with the policy’s emphasis on competency-based evaluation.

The event also resonated with the broader educational community in Jammu and Kashmir, where stories of academic resilience, such as Shabnam Sidiq’s 92.6% score in Pulwama, have highlighted the transformative power of education. By focusing on experiential learning, IUST’s seminar underscored how NEP 2020 can empower students from diverse backgrounds to excel in fields like journalism.

Looking ahead, IUST plans to organize follow-up workshops and collaborate with media organizations to sustain the momentum generated by the seminar. The university aims to establish a dedicated experiential learning lab for journalism students, equipped with tools for multimedia production and data analysis, to fully realize NEP 2020’s vision.

Conclusion

The seminar hosted by IUST’s Department of Journalism and Mass Communication on May 2, 2025, was a significant step toward embracing the transformative potential of NEP 2020. By focusing on experiential learning, the event highlighted how journalism education can evolve to meet the demands of a dynamic media industry. Through hands-on projects, reflective practices, and technology integration, IUST is paving the way for a new generation of journalists who are skilled, ethical, and ready to make a difference. As NEP 2020 continues to shape India’s educational landscape, initiatives like this seminar demonstrate the power of innovative pedagogy to unlock students’ potential and prepare them for the challenges of the 21st century.

From Tent to Triumph: Bakerwal Girl Shabnam Sidiq Scores 92.6% in Class 12, Felicitated by Pulwama DC

Bakerwal Girl Shabnam Sidiq

In a heartwarming display of recognition for resilience and academic excellence, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, felicitated Shabnam Sidiq, a young girl from the Bakerwal tribal community, for her outstanding performance in the Class 12 examinations conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JK BOSE). Shabnam, who scored an impressive 92.6% (463 out of 500 marks), achieved this remarkable feat while living in a tarpaulin tent in the remote Panner Tral area of Pulwama district, South Kashmir. Her story, marked by determination and perseverance in the face of adversity, has inspired many and highlighted the transformative power of education.

Shabnam Sadiq

A Life of Hardship and Determination

Shabnam Sidiq hails from the nomadic Bakerwal community, a marginalized tribal group known for their pastoral lifestyle. Living in the upper reaches of Khatwada Tral, her family resides in a makeshift tarpaulin tent, a far cry from the comforts of a permanent home. Her father, Mohammad Sidiq Bokda, earns a modest income as a laborer, struggling to provide for the family’s basic needs. The absence of a proper study room, private tuition, internet access, or even electricity posed significant challenges for Shabnam’s education. Yet, these obstacles only fueled her resolve to succeed.

Shabnam pursued her studies at a government school in her area, relying solely on the resources available to her. She studied under the dim light of a lantern, battling the elements—rain, cold, and distractions—within the confines of her tent. Her determination to rise above her circumstances and her unwavering focus on education set her apart. “I had no privileges, no separate room for studies, and no coaching. But I believed in my dreams and worked hard,” Shabnam shared during the felicitation ceremony.

Academic Excellence Against All Odds

Shabnam’s score of 463 marks in the JK BOSE Class 12 examinations is a testament to her academic prowess and grit. The results, announced in April 2025, placed her among the top performers in the region. Her achievement is particularly noteworthy given the lack of access to modern educational tools and the socio-economic challenges faced by her community. The Bakerwal community, traditionally engaged in herding and nomadic activities, often faces barriers to education, including limited infrastructure and seasonal migration. Shabnam’s success challenges these systemic constraints and serves as a beacon of hope for other students in similar situations.

Her academic journey was not without sacrifices. Shabnam dedicated long hours to her studies, often prioritizing her books over personal comfort. She credits her teachers at the government school for their guidance and encouragement, which played a crucial role in her preparation. “My teachers believed in me, and their support helped me stay focused,” she said. Her disciplined approach—covering the syllabus systematically and revising diligently—enabled her to excel in her exams.

A Felicitating Moment of Pride

On May 1, 2025, the Deputy Commissioner of Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, honored Shabnam in a special ceremony organized to celebrate her extraordinary achievement. The event, held in Pulwama, was attended by local officials, educators, and community members, all of whom gathered to applaud Shabnam’s success. Dr. Qayoom praised her resilience, noting that her story is an inspiration for students across the district and beyond. “Shabnam’s achievement is a powerful reminder that determination and hard work can overcome even the most daunting challenges,” he said during the ceremony.

The felicitation included a certificate of excellence and words of encouragement from the DC, who urged Shabnam to continue pursuing her dreams. He also assured her of the district administration’s support in her future educational endeavors. The event was widely covered by local media and shared extensively on social media platforms, with posts on X highlighting her story as a symbol of hope and perseverance. One post by @TheKashmirToday read, “DC Pulwama @basharatias_dr (IAS) Felicitates Tent-Dwelling Girl for Excelling in Class 12 Without Coaching,” capturing the sentiment of pride and admiration.

A Beacon for the Bakerwal Community

Shabnam’s success holds special significance for the Bakerwal community, which has historically faced socio-economic marginalization. Her achievement underscores the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering marginalized groups. It also highlights the potential of government schools in providing quality education to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Shabnam’s story has sparked conversations about the need for better educational infrastructure and support for tribal communities in remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir.

Her accomplishment resonates with other stories of academic excellence from South Kashmir. For instance, in June 2024, girl students from Pulwama and Shopian districts excelled in the Class 10 examinations, with students like Mohsina Binti Maqbool scoring 99.2% and Shahzadi Lareba achieving 99%. These successes reflect a growing trend of academic achievement among girls in the region, despite systemic challenges.

Looking Ahead: Dreams and Aspirations

Shabnam aspires to pursue higher education and dreams of a career that will allow her to uplift her family and community. While she has not publicly disclosed her specific academic plans, her determination suggests she will continue to excel in her chosen field. The recognition from the Pulwama administration has boosted her confidence, and she hopes to inspire other students to persevere despite hardships. “I want to tell others that no matter how tough life is, education can change everything,” she said.

The district administration has pledged to support Shabnam’s future endeavors, potentially through scholarships or other educational assistance. Such support could be pivotal in helping her overcome financial barriers and access higher education opportunities. Her story has also drawn attention to the need for targeted interventions to support talented students from marginalized communities, ensuring that their potential is not stifled by economic or social constraints.

A Call for Systemic Change

Shabnam’s achievement, while deeply personal, also shines a light on broader systemic issues. The lack of basic infrastructure—such as permanent housing, electricity, and internet access—for tribal communities like the Bakerwals underscores the need for inclusive development policies. Investments in rural education, including better-equipped schools and access to digital learning tools, could empower more students like Shabnam to realize their potential. Additionally, initiatives to provide coaching, scholarships, and mentorship for students from disadvantaged backgrounds could bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement.

The felicitation of Shabnam by the Pulwama DC is not just a celebration of one girl’s success but a call to action for stakeholders to prioritize education as a tool for social change. Her story challenges stereotypes about tribal communities and demonstrates that talent and determination can thrive in the most unlikely circumstances.

Conclusion

Shabnam Sidiq’s journey from a tarpaulin tent in Panner Tral to being honored by the Deputy Commissioner of Pulwama is a powerful narrative of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of education. Her score of 92.6% in the Class 12 examinations is not just a number but a symbol of her triumph over adversity. As she continues her educational journey, Shabnam stands as an inspiration to countless others, proving that with determination, no obstacle is too big to overcome. The Pulwama administration’s recognition of her achievement is a step toward celebrating and supporting such stories of grit and glory, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

JKBOSE Requests Cyber Police Probe After Fake Class 12th Result Gazette Sparks Student Protest

Bi-Annual Results For 11th Grade

The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education ( JKBOSE ) has written to Cyber Police Station Srinagar to investigate the circulation of fake result gazette of class 12th.
Earlier, some miscreants created a fake website and claimed that the JKBOSE has declared the result of class 12th examinations.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The fake link and gazette were circulated a day prior to the scheduled date for announcement of class 12th results.Officially, result of class 12th examination was announced on May 30 but a fake URL and fake gazette was created by miscreants which created confusion among the students.

Even as the students could find their names on the fake URL, but the marks displayed on the official gazette were completely different.The Board officials had issued clarification that the result available on a website was fake and was a handiwork of some “hackers.”

However, some students made hue and cry and staged a protest against JKBOSE saying how their credentials were available on the fake URL.

“I am directed to forward herewith a copy of the fake result gazette circulated on social media on 29-04-2024, one day ahead of the actual date of declaration of result of class 12th Annual Regular Examination 2025 and to request you to investigate the matter by locating its URL and bringing the miscreants to justice,” reads an official communication issued by Joint secretary secrecy department (Kashmir) in JKBOSE.

The official communication is addressed to Superintendent of Police, Cyber Police Station Kashmir Zone, Srinagar.

“The circulation of the fake gazette created a lot of confusion, causing fear and tribulations to the students and their parents as well as JKBOSE organisation,” the official communication reads.

Talking to Greater Kashmir, Joint secretary secrecy department Shanaz Chowdhary said the fake url was created by some hackers and uploaded the credentials of the students as well.
“We have officially taken up the matter with cyber-Police,” she said.

Shabnam Sadiq: Bakerwal Girl from Tral Scores 463 in JKBOSE Class 12 Despite Studying Under a Tent

Shabnam Sadiq

In the rugged, remote reaches of Khatwada Tral, nestled in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, a simple tarpaulin tent stands as a symbol of resilience and hope. This makeshift shelter, battered by the harsh Kashmiri weather, is home to Shabnam Sadiq, a young girl from the nomadic Bakerwal community, who has defied overwhelming odds to score an extraordinary 463 out of 500 marks in the JK BOSE Class 12 examinations. Her story, one of grit, determination, and unyielding ambition, is an inspiration to students and communities across the region and beyond.

A Life of Hardship

Shabnam Sadiq was born into a family grappling with acute poverty. The Bakerwal community, traditionally nomadic herders, often lives on the margins of society, moving seasonally with their livestock across the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. For Shabnam’s family, led by her father, Mohammad Sadiq Bokda, a laborer with a modest income, life is a constant struggle to make ends meet. Their current home—a tarpaulin-covered tent—offers little protection from the biting cold of winter or the relentless rains of the monsoon. Yet, within these fragile walls, Shabnam nurtured her dreams of academic success.

Unlike many of her peers, Shabnam had no access to private tuition, a proper study room, or the internet—resources often considered essential for academic achievement in today’s world. The tent, shared with her family, was her only study space, where distractions were plenty, and silence was a luxury. Harsh weather conditions frequently disrupted her routine, with leaking roofs and cold drafts making it difficult to focus. Despite these challenges, Shabnam’s resolve remained unshaken.

The Power of Determination

Shabnam’s academic journey was fueled by her unwavering determination and a deep belief in the transformative power of education. Attending a local government school, she relied entirely on her teachers and textbooks for learning. Without the aid of coaching classes or online resources, she developed a disciplined study routine, making the most of the limited resources at her disposal. Her father, Mohammad Sadiq, though burdened by financial constraints, supported her aspirations, encouraging her to pursue her studies despite their circumstances.

“I studied under a tent,” Shabnam shared in an interview, her words reflecting both pride and humility. “There were times when the rain would seep through, or the cold would make it hard to hold a pen, but I knew I had to keep going.” Her ability to focus amidst such adversity is a testament to her mental fortitude and clarity of purpose.

Shabnam’s success is particularly remarkable given the socio-economic barriers faced by the Bakerwal community. Access to education is often limited for nomadic groups, with many children dropping out to assist with family livelihoods. For a girl in such a community, societal expectations and early marriage pressures can further curtail academic pursuits. Shabnam’s achievement challenges these norms, proving that talent and hard work can transcend systemic constraints.

A Beacon of Inspiration

When the JK BOSE Class 12 results were announced, Shabnam’s score of 463 marks sent ripples of pride through her village and beyond. Her accomplishment was not just a personal victory but a source of inspiration for underprivileged students across Kashmir. Social media platforms, particularly X, buzzed with posts celebrating her story, with users like @ch_iqbal_09 noting, “Shabnam Sidiq from Panner Tral story is a testament to the power of hard work and determination.” Another post by @ddnewsSrinagar highlighted her as a role model, stating, “Her grit inspires the Valley.”

Shabnam’s story resonates deeply in a region like Kashmir, where recent years have seen significant challenges, including security concerns and socio-political unrest. Just days before her results were announced, Pulwama district was mentioned in news reports about security operations following a deadly terror attack in nearby Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 lives. Yet, amidst such turbulence, Shabnam’s success shines as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of individual resilience to overcome both personal and regional adversities.

The Role of Community and Support

While Shabnam’s individual effort was central to her success, the role of her family and community cannot be overlooked. Her father’s encouragement, despite their financial struggles, provided her with the emotional support needed to persevere. The teachers at her government school also played a crucial role, offering guidance and fostering an environment where she could thrive. In a region where educational infrastructure can be strained, the dedication of such educators is vital to nurturing talent like Shabnam’s.

Her story has also sparked discussions about the need for greater support for marginalized communities like the Bakerwals. Activists and educators have called for improved access to education, better infrastructure, and scholarships to ensure that more children from nomadic and underprivileged backgrounds can pursue their dreams. Shabnam’s achievement underscores the potential that lies within these communities, waiting to be unlocked with the right opportunities.

Looking Ahead

Shabnam Sadiq’s journey is far from over. Her Class 12 results are a stepping stone to greater aspirations. While she has not publicly shared her specific plans, her academic performance suggests she is capable of pursuing higher education in fields that could transform her life and that of her family. Whether she chooses medicine, engineering, or another path, her story will undoubtedly continue to inspire.

For now, Shabnam remains a symbol of what is possible when determination meets opportunity. Her tarpaulin tent, once a symbol of hardship, has become a testament to her triumph—a reminder that even the humblest of circumstances cannot dim the light of ambition. As her story spreads, it challenges stereotypes, uplifts communities, and inspires a new generation to dream big, no matter the odds.

In the words of a local resident quoted in a news report, “Shabnam has shown us that poverty is not a barrier to success. She is our pride, and her story will live on in our hearts.” For Shabnam Sadiq, the Bakerwal girl from Khatwada Tral, the future is bright, and her journey is just beginning.

Sheyrub Parvaiz Shines in JKBOSE Exams, Secures 4th Rank in Commerce Stream Across Kashmir

Sheyrub Parvaiz

Anantnag, Kashmir – Sheyrub Parvaiz, daughter of Parvaiz Ahmad Najar from KP Road, Anantnag, has brought immense pride to her hometown and the entire Kashmir Valley by securing the 4th rank in the Commerce stream in the recently declared JKBOSE Class 12th results.

Sheyrub scored an exceptional 492 out of 500 marks, achieving a remarkable 98.4%, a feat that places her among the top achievers in the valley. Her outstanding performance is a reflection of her dedication, consistent hard work, and the strong support of her family and mentors.

Sheyrub received her coaching and academic guidance from ACIT Coaching Institute, KP Road, Anantnag, which has played a pivotal role in shaping many bright futures in the region.

In her brief statement following the results, Sheyrub expressed gratitude to her parents, teachers, and coaching centre for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout her academic journey.

The local community, educators, and fellow students have lauded her achievement, calling it an inspiration for other young aspirants, especially girls from the region aiming to excel in academics.

Her success is a testament to the growing academic potential in South Kashmir and highlights the importance of quality education and determination in overcoming all odds.

With dreams of pursuing a career in finance and business, Sheyrub now looks forward to further studies and hopes to contribute positively to society in the future.

JKBOSE Class 12th Results to Be Declared Today at 2 PM, Class 10th Likely by Evening

JKBOSE Class 12th Results

In a major update for students and parents, the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) will declare the results of the Class 12th annual examinations today, April 30, at 2 PM. The announcement was made by Secretary JKBOSE, G H Sheikh, who confirmed that preparations have been finalised for the timely release of the Class 12th results.

Speaking to the media, Sheikh stated that the Class 10th results may also be announced later this evening, depending on server capacity and system performance. “After declaring Class 12th results at 2 PM today, we will try to declare the Class 10th results in the late evening on the same day if our servers could host it. In case we couldn’t declare Class 10th result on the same day, then it will be declared on May 1, 2025,” he explained.

The Board had earlier indicated it was exploring the possibility of releasing both Class 10th and 12th results on the same day. However, due to the technical demands of hosting results for thousands of students online, the final decision depends on the server load.

JKBOSE’s move to announce the results before May is in line with its earlier commitment to speed up the evaluation and result declaration process this year. Students are advised to check the official JKBOSE website regularly for real-time updates.

The results are eagerly awaited by students, schools, and parents across Jammu and Kashmir, as they play a key role in academic and career planning.

Prof. Warsi Highlights Research Excellence at BGSBU Workshop on Advanced Methods and Time Series Analysis

Prof. Warsi

Rajouri – Prof. Warsi Dean of Academic Affairs at Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), emphasized the strategic importance of capacity-building initiatives in fostering a strong research culture within academic institutions. He was speaking at the valedictory session of the National Workshop on Advanced Research Methods and Time Series Analysis, organized by the Department of Economics, which concluded on April 25, 2025.

The week-long workshop, held from April 21 to 25, attracted 43 doctoral scholars and faculty members from across India. It featured an intensive schedule of lectures and practical sessions delivered by distinguished experts in the field.

Prof. M. Ramachandran opened the academic proceedings with “The Trilemma Trap,” followed by lectures on “Basics of Time-Series Analysis” and “Cointegration Analysis.” Dr. Arif Billah introduced “ARMA and Engle–Granger Cointegration,” and Dr. Gopinathan R. presented “Volatility Modelling: ARCH and GARCH.”

Sessions on “Issues in Collection of Secondary Data: Accessing Major Databases” were jointly conducted by Dr. Sajad Ahmad Rather and Ms. Tazeem Akhter. Dr. Shafkat Shafi Dar led a comprehensive session on “Generalized Method of Moments & Instrumental Variables,” while Dr. Showket Ahmad Mir addressed “Research and Publication Ethics.” Dr. Faizan Shabir and Dr. Aasim Mir guided participants through “Writing High-Impact Research Papers,” with Dr. Shabir also covering “Data Analytics with R.” Dr Md Zulquar Nain concluded the technical modules with lectures on “Spectral Analysis and Wavelet Techniques” and “Vector AutoRegression (VAR).”

The valedictory session began with a welcome address by Dr. Sajad Ahmad Rather, Head of the Department of Economics, who acknowledged the commitment of all participants and thanked the organising committee. Dr. Shamas Kamal Anjum, Associate Dean, School of Social Sciences, and Prof. Latief Hussain Shah Kazmi of Aligarh Muslim University, commended the academic depth and practical focus of the workshop.

Participants reflected positively on the workshop’s integration of theoretical learning and hands-on experience, noting its value for their ongoing research. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Aasim Mir, who appreciated the support of the resource persons, organizing team, and university administration.

The session was compered by Ms. Tazeem Akhter, Assistant Professor, Department of Economics.

Kashmiri Students at LPU Seek Protection Amid Rising Tensions After Pahalgam Attack; SSP Assures Safety

Kashmiri Students

Amid rising tensions following the recent terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmiri students from Lovely Professional University (LPU) Punjab met with Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kapurthala, Gorav Toora, on Thursday to voice their concerns about safety and growing threats against Kashmiri youth in different parts of the country.
The students, deeply concerned by reports of harassment and intimidation targeting Kashmiris, said they felt increasingly vulnerable, especially in the aftermath of the attack which has stoked public anger and backlash. They called on local authorities to step in and ensure their protection.
Student activist Syed Abdul Mohsin Andrabi a PhD Scholar, who has been actively representing Kashmiri students in the Punjab region while speaking to the SSP, stressed the need for proactive security measures and appealed for a more sensitive handling of the situation.“We are students, not suspects,” Andrabi told SSP Toora. “Our only demand is safety and dignity. The pain of the Pahalgam attack is shared by all of us, but it should not translate into collective punishment for an entire community. We want to be able to walk freely, study peacefully, and live without fear.”
SSP Gorav Toora assured the delegation that the police are fully committed to ensuring the safety of all students, regardless of background, and that any act of communal targeting would be dealt with strictly. “No one has the right to threaten or harass anyone on the basis of identity,” he said.“You are welcome here, and we stand by you.” Significantly, the SSP also assured the students that Section 144 of the CrPC would be imposed wherever necessary to prevent any law and order situation or mob action. He urged the students to stay calm and to immediately report any incidents or threats they might face. “Punjab has always welcomed people from every background,” SSP Toora added. “We will ensure that continues, and the safety of all students, especially those feeling vulnerable right now, will be our top priority.”
Students from the Kashmir valley, currently pursuing higher education at LPU, also shared their experiences of being subjected to offline and online abuse and subtle forms of discrimination in recent days. Some expressed concern that the national mood, inflamed by recent violence, was creating a hostile atmosphere for them across campuses and cities.
Officials from LPU have also issued a statement reaffirming their commitment to student safety and inclusivity. The university is said to be in regular contact with the police and is taking internal measures to ensure a peaceful environment on campus.
The Pahalgam incident, which claimed several lives, has once again highlighted the precarious situation of Kashmiri students studying outside the region. As investigations into the attack continue, Kashmiri youth across India are appealing for empathy and protection rather than suspicion and scapegoating.(KNS)

BGSBU Launches National Workshop on Advanced Research Methods and Time Series Analysis

National Workshop

Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) commenced a One-Week National Workshop on Advanced Research Methods and Time Series Analysis, organized by the Department of Economics. The workshop was formally inaugurated by Prof. Jawaid Iqbal, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of the University.

In his inaugural address, Prof. Jawaid Iqbal emphasized the importance of research and innovation in shaping the future of higher education. He stated, “Workshops like these play a pivotal role in enhancing the research skills of scholars and faculty members. At BGSBU, we are committed to creating an ecosystem that promotes interdisciplinary research and academic collaboration at national and international levels.” He congratulated the Department of Economics for taking this important initiative and encouraged participants to make the most of the sessions.

Prof. M. Ramachandran from Pondicherry University, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, highlighted the growing relevance of advanced research tools and time series analysis in economic research. He lauded BGSBU for providing a platform for scholars to engage in rigorous academic training.

Dr. Showket Ahmed Mir, Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, delivered the welcome address and provided an overview of the objectives of the workshop. The session proceedings were conducted by Ms. Tazeem Akhter, Assistant Professor, while Dr. Shams Kamal Anjum, Associate Dean, School of Social Sciences, proposed the vote of thanks.

The workshop has attracted participation from faculty members and research scholars from BGSBU and academic institutions across the country, reflecting its wide academic appeal and relevance.