NIT Srinagar’s Dr. Majid Hussain Secures ISRO RESPOND Funding for Planetary Dust Research

Dr. Majid Hussain

In a significant achievement for the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, Dr. Majid Hussain, Assistant Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering, has secured funding from the prestigious RESPOND Programme of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His research project, titled “Modelling or experimental work related to interplanetary/planetary dust,” has been approved by ISRO’s Chairman and the Secretary of the Department of Space (DOS). The project is set to receive funding for a period of two years, marking a major milestone in space research at NIT Srinagar.

A Major Recognition from ISRO

The RESPOND Programme, initiated by ISRO, aims to promote advanced research in space-related fields by collaborating with academic institutions across India. Dr. Hussain’s project will focus on understanding planetary and interplanetary dust dynamics, an area of great importance for space exploration and planetary sciences. His work could potentially contribute to future lunar and Martian missions by providing insights into the interaction between rovers, landers, and planetary regolith.

In an official letter dated March 11, 2025, ISRO confirmed the approval of Dr. Hussain’s project and outlined the administrative processes required for fund disbursement. The letter was signed by M.A. Paul on behalf of ISRO’s RESPOND Programme, which is headquartered at Antariksh Bhavan, New BEL Road, Bengaluru. According to ISRO’s guidelines, the Department of Space will release the sanctioned funds annually through the Central Nodal Agency (CNA) Scheme to support the research activities.

Impact of the Research

Dr. Hussain’s research will significantly contribute to the understanding of how dust behaves on planetary surfaces, which is a critical factor in designing space missions. The study will explore the interaction of planetary dust with landers and rovers, providing crucial data that could help improve the durability and efficiency of exploration vehicles operating on the Moon, Mars, and other celestial bodies.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Majid Hussain stated, “I am thankful to ISRO for recognizing and supporting our work. This project will contribute to scientific advancements in planetary dust modeling, benefiting both fundamental research and space missions.” He also emphasized that the Department of Civil Engineering and the faculty community at NIT Srinagar are committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in planetary science and space technology.

Congratulatory Messages from NIT Srinagar Leadership

Dr. Hussain’s achievement has been widely celebrated within the academic and research community of NIT Srinagar. Prof. Roohie Naaz, Incharge-Director of NIT Srinagar, congratulated him on this remarkable accomplishment. She highlighted the institute’s commitment to cutting-edge research and its growing collaboration with national institutions like ISRO. “We take immense pride in Dr. Hussain’s achievement and look forward to further strengthening our research capabilities in space sciences,” she stated.

Similarly, Prof. Atikur Rehman, Registrar of NIT Srinagar, extended his heartfelt congratulations, calling it a proud moment for the entire institute. He remarked, “We are confident that this project will make valuable contributions to the field of space science and planetary research. It reflects our institution’s dedication to fostering research excellence.”

Advancing Space Science at NIT Srinagar

This funding marks a new chapter for NIT Srinagar in space-related research. As the institute continues to enhance its research capabilities, collaborations with prestigious organizations like ISRO open new doors for students and faculty members alike. The research led by Dr. Hussain is expected to not only advance theoretical knowledge but also have practical applications in future space missions.

As India’s space program continues to make strides on the global stage, contributions from academic institutions like NIT Srinagar play a vital role in supporting ISRO’s ambitious exploration goals. With dedicated researchers like Dr. Majid Hussain, the institute is set to become a significant player in space and planetary research in the years to come.

CUK Hosts Seminar on Women’s Role in Urdu Literature on International Women’s Day

CUK Hosts Seminar

In commemoration of International Women’s Day, the Department of Urdu, Central University of Kashmir (CUK), in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, (JKAACL) organised a seminar ‘Jammu Kashmir Ka Nissaie Urdu Adab’ (Women’s Role in Promoting Urdu Literature of Jammu and Kashmir) at the university’s Green Campus on Thursday.

A statement of CUK issued here said that the seminar highlighted the invaluable contributions of eminent women poets and writers, including Dr Taranum Riyaz, Prof Ayesha Mastoora, Abida Ahmad, Syeda Nasreen Naqash, Shafiqa Parveen, Wajidah Tabassum, Shabnum Ashai, and others, whose literary works have played a pivotal role in shaping and enriching Urdu literature in the region.

Delivering the keynote address, former Director of All India Radio, Srinagar, Rukhsana Jabeen lauded the immense literary contributions of women in Jammu and Kashmir.She emphasised that their works have not only enriched the region’s literary landscape but also paved the way for future generations of writers and poets.

“Their writings serve as a bridge between the past and the present, preserving the essence of Urdu literature while addressing contemporary themes like identity, feminism, and Kashmir’s unique socio-political milieu,” Jabeen said.Prominent fiction writer Nilofar Naaz Nahvi underscored the often overlooked yet significant role of Kashmiri women in Urdu literature.

“Women poets, fiction writers, literary critics, and journalists have vividly portrayed the socio-political, cultural, and personal dimensions of life in Kashmir,” she said.

In her address, Kausar Rasool highlighted how women writers have skillfully encapsulated the emotions, experiences, and cultural ethos of Kashmir through their works.Head of the Department of Urdu, Prof Irfan Aalam hailed the seminar as a landmark event in recognising the literary contributions of women.

“By bringing together scholars, writers, and poets, this seminar has taken an essential step toward bridging the gap in literary recognition and ensuring that the voices of women in Urdu literature are heard and preserved for future generations,” he said.

Editor of Shiraz and Urdu, Saleem Salik acknowledged the immense contributions of women poets and scholars, noting that their works remain underrepresented.

“This seminar, through academic discussions, paper presentations, and poetic symposiums, has offered an in-depth exploration of their literary contributions, struggles, aspirations, and achievements,” he said.

NIT Srinagar Secures Spot in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025

NIT Srinagar

National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar has been recognized in the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025. NIT Srinagar has secured a ranking in the 1201-1500th category overall and 1001-1250th in the Engineering category.

The rankings are based on a comprehensive evaluation of universities across five key performance indicators: Teaching, Research Environment, Research Quality, Industry Engagement, and International Outlook.

NIT Srinagar’s scores in these parameters reflect its continuous efforts toward academic and research excellence. The institute achieved a score of 26.1 in Teaching, 12.8 in Research Environment, 43 in Research Quality, 18.4 in Industry Engagement, and 25.8 in International Outlook.

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 assessed from 108 countries and regions using the latest WUR 3.0 methodology, which incorporates 18 calibrated performance indicators.

This year’s rankings analyzed over 134 million citations from 16.5 million research publications and included survey responses from 68,402 scholars worldwide. A total of 411,789 data points were collected from 2,673 institutions that submitted data for the rankings.

Speaking on this recognition, Director NIT Srinagar Prof. Binod Kanaujia in his message said this remarkable achievement underscores NIT Srinagar’s commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and global engagement. We are committed to further enhancing our academic and research standards to make NIT Srinagar a globally recognized institution, he added.

Institute’s Registrar Prof. Atik-ur-Rehman said this achievement reflects our sustained efforts to improve our research output and academic excellence. We will continue striving towards greater innovation and global collaborations, he added.

Nodal Officer, Institute ranking Dr. Vijay kumar and Dr. Harveer Singh Pali both appreciated the efforts and active participation of all Deans, HoD’s, HoC’s, faculty and non-faculty staff, and students which led to this great achievement.

He expressed their gratitude to Director NIT Srinagar; Prof. Binod Kanaujia led administration for their consistent support and encouragement. “We are confident that, in future we will improve our rankings and recognition of the Institute,” he added.

Dr. Rani, Research Scientist from America, Inspires Students at Whiz Kids Anantnag with STEM Lecture Series

wizkids Anantnag

Anantnag, Kashmir – Whiz Kids Anantnag, a renowned educational institution and the first STEM school in Jammu and Kashmir, recently hosted an inspiring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) lecture series. The event featured Dr. Rani, a distinguished research scientist with post-doctoral experience from the University of Pennsylvania and Stanford University, USA.

Dr. Rani’s visit was a remarkable opportunity for students to gain firsthand insights into the global landscape of STEM education. Her lecture provided an in-depth perspective on how education is imparted in the United States, highlighting innovative teaching methodologies, research opportunities, and career pathways in STEM fields.

Igniting a Passion for STEM

The presence of Dr. Rani created an electrifying atmosphere as students enthusiastically engaged with her. She shared valuable knowledge about advancements in science and technology, inspiring students to dream big and pursue their passions with confidence. The interactive session allowed students to ask questions, discuss their aspirations, and seek guidance on academic and career choices in STEM fields.

Students were particularly fascinated by the way STEM education in the USA encourages hands-on learning, critical thinking, and research-driven approaches. Dr. Rani emphasized the importance of curiosity, persistence, and creativity in scientific pursuits. Her words ignited a newfound passion for STEM among the young learners, motivating them to explore opportunities beyond traditional education.

Whiz Kids Anantnag – Pioneering STEM Education in J&K

Whiz Kids Anantnag has established itself as the first STEM school in Jammu and Kashmir, setting new benchmarks in innovative education. The institution follows a globally competitive curriculum, directly supervised by research scientists from Stanford University, USA. This ensures that students receive top-tier education that aligns with international standards.

The recent STEM lecture series was an orientation program aimed at introducing students to the limitless possibilities within the STEM domain. Dr. Rani’s insights reinforced the school’s commitment to fostering a scientific temperament and preparing students for future challenges in an ever-evolving technological world.

Impact of the Lecture Series

The event left a profound impact on the students, who were thrilled to interact with a scientist of Dr. Rani’s stature. Many expressed their excitement about the new perspectives they gained and their desire to explore STEM fields more deeply.

Teachers and school authorities also lauded the initiative, emphasizing that such interactions bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications. “Meeting a scientist like Dr. Rani in person was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our students. It not only boosted their confidence but also broadened their horizons,” said a faculty member at Whiz Kids Anantnag.

Encouraging Future Scientists

Dr. Rani’s visit served as a beacon of inspiration, proving that with dedication and the right guidance, students from Kashmir can achieve global recognition in STEM fields. The Whiz Kids Anantnag management expressed their commitment to organizing more such events, ensuring that students receive exposure to the latest developments in science and technology.

As the school continues to pioneer STEM education in the region, events like these play a crucial role in shaping young minds, encouraging innovation, and nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and researchers.

With an unwavering dedication to academic excellence, Whiz Kids Anantnag remains at the forefront of educational transformation, ensuring that its students are well-equipped to compete at an international level.


Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), Rajouri Hosts Two-Day Workshop on Women Empowerment, Calls for Collective Action

Women Empowerment

On the eve of International Women’s Day, the Department of Islamic Studies, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), Rajouri, organized a two-day workshop on the theme “Women Empowerment: Accelerate Action” on March 8 and 10, 2025. The workshop aimed to highlight the importance of gender equality and the need for collective efforts to empower women in various socio-economic spheres.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Jawaid Iqbal and Prof. M. J. Warsi, Dean Academic Affairs, BGSBU, lauded the Department of Islamic Studies for organizing this significant event. In their message, they emphasized the relevance of the theme and stressed that such initiatives should be conducted regularly to promote awareness and action toward women’s empowerment.
The event commenced with the recitation of Quranic verses by Mohd Tayyib, a postgraduate student of Islamic Studies, followed by a welcome address by Dr. Naseem Gul, Head of the Department of Islamic Studies. Dr. Gul underscored the significance of the theme and its relevance in the contemporary world.
Dr. Mariya Aslam, Head, Department of English, BGSBU, spoke on the necessity of equal opportunities for women in socio-economic sectors, citing examples of successful women entrepreneurs, authors, and artists. She also referenced early Islamic history to highlight the contributions of women in civilization-building. Dr. Shachi Sood, Coordinator, Department of Hindi, BGSBU, elaborated on various aspects of women’s empowerment, emphasizing the need to dismantle patriarchal structures and ensure equal access to resources. She stressed that both men and women are intellectually congruent and should be provided with equal opportunities.
The workshop was attended by faculty members, including Dr. Layaqat Nayyer, Dr. Mohd Asif Malik (Department of Urdu), and Dr. Mohd Younus Kumar (Department of Islamic Studies), as well as research scholars and students from various departments of the university.
The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Muheeb Ahad, Faculty Member, Department of Islamic Studies. The workshop was successfully coordinated by Dr. Ishfaq Amin Parrey, Faculty Member, Department of Islamic Studies.

J&K Students Association Seeks MEA’s Intervention to Rescue Kashmiri Youth Faizan Rasool Held Hostage in Myanmar

Jammu and Kashmir Students Association

The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association on Sunday has written to Union External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, seeking immediate intervention in the case of Faizan Rasool, a 28-year-old youth from Safakadal, Srinagar, who has fallen victim to human trafficking and is currently being held hostage in Myanmar.

In its letter to the External Affairs Minister, the National Convenor of the Association, Nasir Khuehami, said that Faizan was lured by false promises of employment in Thailand. He, along with a friend, traveled to Bangkok in search of better opportunities. However, their journey turned into a harrowing ordeal when they were forced to undertake a 15-hour bus journey, cross a river, and were subsequently taken into Myanmar, a region notorious for human trafficking, forced labor, and organized crime.

Now held captive, Faizan’s abductors have demanded a ransom of ₹4.5 lakh for his release, threatening dire consequences if the amount is not paid. His family, already struggling financially, is devastated and fears for his life. His mother, holding an old photograph of her son, pleads, “He left home with dreams in his eyes… now we don’t even know if he’s alive.” His father, his voice trembling, adds, “We are helpless. If the government does not act, we may never see our son again,” the letter reads.

Their anguish is compounded by the fact that this is not an isolated incident. Recently, another Kashmiri youth, also named Faizan, returned home after his family paid a similar ransom, leaving them burdened with debt. These cases highlight a deeply troubling pattern where young Kashmiris, desperate for employment, are being lured by traffickers, only to be exploited or held captive for ransom. Such incidents point to a growing trend of human traffickers preying on young Kashmiris seeking employment abroad, Khuehami said.

In its appeal, the Association urged the Union External Affairs Minister to intervene through diplomatic channels and engage with Myanmar authorities to locate and secure Faizan Rasool’s release. It called for immediate coordination between Indian diplomatic missions in Thailand and Myanmar to expedite negotiations and ensure his safe return.

The association has also requested law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against trafficking networks targeting Indian youth. It has stressed the need for a strong travel advisory to prevent further exploitation of job-seeking individuals. “Every passing day increases the risk to Faizan Rasool’s life. With traffickers growing bolder and families left powerless, we appeal to the Union External Affairs Minister to act swiftly and decisively before another innocent life is lost,” the association stated.

Khuehami urged the Union External Affairs Minister to prioritize this case on humanitarian grounds and ensure that all diplomatic channels are explored to facilitate Faizan’s safe return. The association expressed hope that the Ministry of External Affairs will act promptly, ensuring that all necessary diplomatic measures are taken to bring Faizan back home safely.

“The Indian government has always stood by its citizens abroad, ensuring justice and their safe return in times of crisis. We believe that under the leadership of Dr. S. Jaishankar, the Ministry of External Affairs will take swift and effective measures to resolve this issue,” the association added.

JKBOSE Files Unfair-Means Cases Against 37 Students During Exam Inspection Drive

JKBOSE Explains

Continuing its inspection drive to enforce discipline in the conduct of the examinations, the JKBOSE officials have framed unfair-means cases against 37 erring students today.

The Board had constituted 40 teams, which fanned over across the length and breadth of the union territory for guarding integrity of the examinations and ensuring a strict check over the invigilation staff.

The Board had asked the School Education department also to constitute vigilance teams to supplement the efforts of the Board in ensuring transparency in the examinations.

The BOSE has cautioned the centre superintendents to be extra cautious in discharging their duties and help the Board in the conduct of the smooth and transparent examinations.

JKSA Hails ₹50 Crore Allocation for National Law University in J&K, Calls It a Historic Move

National Law University in J&K

The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Friday expressed its gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for allocating ₹50 crore to establish a National Law University (NLU) in the region. This decision marks a historic step toward advancing legal education in Jammu and Kashmir, which has long lacked a specialized institution of this stature, unlike other states that already have premier NLUs.

JKSA National President Ummar Jamal in a statement welcomed the move, emphasizing the urgent need for an NLU in J&K. He stated that the association had been advocating for this for years and had submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister just a few months ago, urging the government to take decisive action. He lauded Omar Abdullah’s for addressing this long-pending demand.

He further highlighted that the absence of a dedicated law university has forced aspiring law students to migrate to other states, leading to significant financial burdens and limiting their opportunities. With the establishment of an NLU, J&K will finally be on par with other states that already house premier legal institutions. This move will not only improve the quality of legal education but will also nurture a new generation of lawyers, judges, and policymakers from within the region, fostering a strong legal ecosystem.

Jamal stressed that the allocation of ₹50 crore will help create a world-class institution equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, modern teaching methodologies, and access to top legal scholars and professionals. He pointed out that existing law programs at the University of Kashmir and the University of Jammu lack advanced facilities and practical exposure, often relying on outdated teaching methods that emphasize theoretical knowledge while neglecting crucial practical skills such as mooting, debating, and internships. The establishment of an NLU will bridge this gap, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive legal education that prepares them for the evolving demands of the profession.

He said that, Association has played a crucial role in advocating for this initiative through sustained efforts, including media publications, opinion pieces, and public statements in platforms and National Publications. The association has consistently highlighted the necessity of an NLU in J&K and has engaged in policy discussions to push for its establishment. The association now urges the government to expedite the process, ensuring that the allocated funds are utilized effectively and that the university becomes operational at the earliest.

JKSA National Spokesperson, Farhat Riyaz, in a statement said that establishment of the NLU will be a transformational step in positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for legal scholarship and research. It will provide aspiring law professionals with the necessary resources, faculty, and opportunities to compete at national and international levels.

It will contribute to strengthening the region’s judicial and governance systems by producing well-trained legal minds, she added.

JKBOSE Refutes Reports on Textbook Shortage, Confirms 72% Distribution in Kashmir Schools

supply of text books

The JKBOSE has strongly countered a news reported in a section of media regarding shortage of prescribed text books in government schools, which have opened today after a long winter break.

In a statement issued here today in this regard, the Board has clarified that nearly 72% books have already been received and distributed among the zonal education heads across the Kashmir Valley.

Despite inclement weather over the last week, the Board has succeeded in distribution of 13.46 lakh books while the remaining 5.50 lakh books are in the transit, which will take another 4 to 5 days to reach the end- destination in Kashmir valley and winter zones of Jammu division.

The Board has expressed concern over factually wrong news report, advising the publisher to clarify the factual position before flashing misleading information among the public.

Over 44 Lakh Students to Appear as CBSE Class 10 & 12 Board Exams Begin on February 15

Over 44 Lakh Students

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will commence the Class 10 and 12 board examinations on February 15, with over 44 lakh students from 8,000 schools in India and abroad set to appear.

On the first day, Class 10 students will take the English (Communicative) and English (Language and Literature) papers, while Class 12 students will write the Entrepreneurship exam.
The exams will be conducted from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM across 7,842 centres in India and 26 locations abroad.

CBSE has issued strict guidelines to maintain the integrity of the exams. Regular students must wear school uniforms, while private candidates should opt for light-coloured clothing.
Students must arrive at the exam centre at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time and carefully read the question paper instructions before answering.

The board has also listed items prohibited inside the exam hall, including mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, smartwatches, cameras, unauthorized study materials, wallets, handbags, goggles, and pouches. Food and drinks are not allowed, except for diabetic students with prior approval.
Admit cards have been issued via the Pariksha Sangam Portal.

Regular students must carry their admit cards and school IDs, while private candidates need a government-issued photo ID.
To ensure smooth conduct, CBSE held a live webcast at 2:30 PM on Friday on its YouTube channel, detailing exam and evaluation guidelines for centre superintendents and other officials.

The Class 10 exams will continue until March 18, while Class 12 exams will conclude on April 4. CBSE has provided sufficient gaps between major subjects this year to ease the examination process.
Given the increased student commute on examination days, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced special facilitation measures in partnership with CISF. Students will be given priority during frisking and ticketing at metro stations, with additional staff deployed to assist them during peak hours. (ANI)ANI | Updated: Feb 14, 2025 20:31 IST

New Delhi [India], February 14 (ANI): The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will commence the Class 10 and 12 board examinations on February 15, with over 44 lakh students from 8,000 schools in India and abroad set to appear.

On the first day, Class 10 students will take the English (Communicative) and English (Language and Literature) papers, while Class 12 students will write the Entrepreneurship exam.

The exams will be conducted from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM across 7,842 centres in India and 26 locations abroad.

CBSE has issued strict guidelines to maintain the integrity of the exams. Regular students must wear school uniforms, while private candidates should opt for light-coloured clothing.

Students must arrive at the exam centre at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time and carefully read the question paper instructions before answering.

The board has also listed items prohibited inside the exam hall, including mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, smartwatches, cameras, unauthorized study materials, wallets, handbags, goggles, and pouches. Food and drinks are not allowed, except for diabetic students with prior approval.

Admit cards have been issued via the Pariksha Sangam Portal. Regular students must carry their admit cards and school IDs, while private candidates need a government-issued photo ID.

To ensure smooth conduct, CBSE held a live webcast at 2:30 PM on Friday on its YouTube channel, detailing exam and evaluation guidelines for centre superintendents and other officials.

The Class 10 exams will continue until March 18, while Class 12 exams will conclude on April 4. CBSE has provided sufficient gaps between major subjects this year to ease the examination process.

Given the increased student commute on examination days, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced special facilitation measures in partnership with CISF. Students will be given priority during frisking and ticketing at metro stations, with additional staff deployed to assist them during peak hours. (ANI)