Kashmir Education

Former J&K Minister Naeem Akhtar Criticises Age Limit for Competitive Exams, Calls for Fairer Opportunities

October 26, 2024 by NOK Desk

Senior PDP leader and former Education Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Naeem Akhtar, has expressed strong disapproval of the age restriction imposed on candidates for the Jammu and Kashmir Combined Competitive Examination (JKCCE). On Friday, Akhtar called out the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) for enforcing an age limit of 32 years, labelling it “unfair and biased” in light of the significant hardships faced by the region’s young population.

The JKCCE Preliminary Examination is scheduled for 17 November 2024, but Akhtar fears that the current age limit will unjustly exclude numerous deserving candidates. He pointed out that individuals born between 1990 and 1999 have endured consistent educational interruptions, notably during periods of unrest in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2014, 2016, and following Jammu and Kashmir’s reorganisation in 2019. He highlighted that civil service exams were also halted for two years during this transition.

Akhtar urged the Union Territory administration to raise the age cap to 35 years, arguing that this adjustment would provide a fairer opportunity for affected candidates. “The administration could at least offer these candidates some relief, recognising the setbacks they’ve faced due to ongoing instability,” he said.

The PDP leader also compared J&K’s policy with other states, citing higher age limits for civil service exams in states like Odisha (38 years), Uttar Pradesh (40 years), Haryana (42 years), and Himachal Pradesh (35 years). Imposing a 32-year age cap in a region marked by conflict, he argued, is both unjust and discriminatory.

Akhtar also addressed additional difficulties faced by candidates in the general category under Jammu and Kashmir’s revised reservation policies. “With the new reservation rules, it’s even more crucial to allow open merit candidates to compete up to the age of 35. Denying them this chance risks further marginalising them and excluding them from governance opportunities,” he cautioned.

He concluded by urging the UT administration to act swiftly, stating that addressing these concerns would reflect a commitment to fairness and inclusivity in governance.

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Kashmir Education

Prof Binod Kumar Kanaujia assumes additional charge of Director, NIT Srinagar

October 23, 2024 by NOK Desk

Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, Director Dr B R Ambedkar National Institute of Technology (NIT) Jalandhar on Wednesday assumed additional charge of Director, National Institute of Technology (NIT), Srinagar, relieving Prof A. Ravinder Nath as per the orders of the Ministry of Education.

Prof. Kanaujia was received by Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman, senior faculty members and administrative staff. He was accompanied by esteemed guests Registrar NIT Jalandhar Prof. Ajay Bansal and DSW, Prof. Anish K Sachdeva.

Immediately after assuming the charge, Prof. Kanaujia held a meeting with administrative staff of NIT Srinagar. It was attended by Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman, Deputy Registrars and Assistant Registrars and other senior officers.

In the first meeting, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Kanaujia was briefed about administrative issues concerning the institute. He assured that these matters would be resolved on a priority basis. Prof. Kanaujia directed officers that no files should be unnecessarily delayed and that all processes should be completed in a time-bound manner.

It was followed by another meeting that was attended by all Deans, Heads of Departments, and Heads of Centres of the institute.

In his key address, Prof. Kanaujia stressed the importance of prioritizing the institute, its students, faculty members, and staff. “Our institute comes first, followed by the students, faculty, and staff. No one is above these three pillars,” he said adding that decisions should be based on rules.

Prof. Kanaujia further highlighted that the welfare and progress of the institute, along with the well-being of its students and staff, should be the collective focus.

“We must commit ourselves to build this institute and transform it into the premier seat of learning in the region,” he added.

The Director NIT Srinagar also assured his full support, stating that he is ready to assist the institute, students, and staff in any way possible.

Prof. Kanaujia also interacted with the Deans and Heads of Departments, reviewing ongoing projects at NIT Srinagar. He listened to the major concerns raised and promised that feasible solutions would be implemented in a timely manner.

“I have a vision to elevate NIT Srinagar to new heights and for that cooperation of both teaching and non-teaching staff is important to achieve this shared mission,” Prof. Kanaujia said.

“Success cannot be achieved without the support of the entire community—administrative staff, faculty, colleagues, and students—and stressed the importance of working together,” he added.

On October 16, the Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India, assigned Prof. Kanaujia temporary charge as Director of NIT Srinagar, in addition to his role as Director of NIT Jalandhar.

The order, a continuation of a previous MoE directive from January 9, 2024, stated that Prof. Kanaujia would hold this additional responsibility for six months or until a permanent director is appointed, whichever comes first.

Prior to his appointment as Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Kumar Kanaujia joined as Director BR Ambedkar NIT Jalandhar on 5-Feb-2022.

He has earned PhD and M.Tech in Electronics Engineering from IIT (BHU), Varanasi, India, and a B.Tech in Electronics Engineering from KNIT Sultanpur, U.P., India.

His areas of interest and specialization include RF system design, microstrip antennas, dielectric resonator antennas, left-handed metamaterial microstrip antennas, ultra-wideband antennas, reconfigurable and circular polarized antennas for wireless and mobile communication, and computational RF radiators.

Prof. Kanaujia is also Professor at the School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. Before joining JNU, he held various academic positions at the Ambedkar Institute of Advanced Communication Technologies & Research, Govt. of NCT Delhi, where he served as Professor (2011-2016), Associate Professor (2008-2011), and Assistant Professor (2008).

He also held the role of Head of Department on multiple occasions and coordinated the M.Tech program in RF and Microwave Engineering.

Prof. Kanaujia began his teaching career in 1996 as a Lecturer in Electronics and Communication Engineering at M.J.P. Rohilkhand University, Bareilly, U.P., where he was later promoted to Reader and served as Head of the Department from 2006 to 2008.

His contributions to the field have earned him recognition, including a consolation prize for his paper on microstrip antennas at the 4th International Conference on Radio Science (ICRS) in 2008.

Prof. Kanaujia is member of several prestigious professional bodies, including IEEE, and a life member of the Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers, the Institution of Engineers, and the Indian Society for Technical Education.

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Kashmir Education

Government Will Restore November-December Session From 2025: Minister for Education Sakina Itoo

October 23, 2024 by NOK Desk

The Minister for Education Sakina Itoo on Tuesday stated that the department will restore the November-December academic session from the next academic year.

Itoo said that the decision to switch to the March session a few years ago has not been well received by the general masses and voices were growing louder to shift to the November session.Earlier, the education minister had said that the decision will be put in public domain to seek feedback and further action would be taken accordingly.

“But given the public demand, I don’t think there is any need to put the matter in public domain for their feedback. I have already received the demand from so many people to restore the November session in schools,” she said.

The J&K government in 2022 shifted from November to March session saying that the move will ensure a uniform academic calendar which in turn will be synchronised to the national academic calendar.

The Education minister Sakina Itoo said the November academic session will be restored next year for all classes in one go. “We will not do it in a phased manner but will decide it for all the classes simultaneously,” she said.

However, the academics said that before switching back to the November session, the department needs to chalk about the strategy to formulate the process. “While switching from the November to March session in 2022, the government got extra months to hold the exams in March. But while restoring the November session, the on-going academic session will be curtailed during the process. The department should immediately constitute a committee to chalk out a plan for restoration of the November session,” a senior academic said, wishing not to be named.

He said the timely constitution of the committee can help the department to switch back to the November session without hiccups.“The final decision to restore the November session will not be taken by the education department. The approval for this has to come from the government. The school education department should start its homework for it,” he said.

Meanwhile, a top official told Media that the education minister while chairing her first review of the school education department issued directions to the department to come up with the plan for restoration of the November session in schools.

The official also said that the minister fixed a deadline for the department to address the lopsided Pupil Teacher Ratio (PTR) in schools.“Lopsided PTR in schools is a grave issue, we are working on it as well,” Sakina Itoo said.

On the decline of enrollment in Degree Colleges and schools, the Education minister told Media Agencies that the downward trend witnessed in educational institutions was a major concern for the department.“I have already taken a review of the School Education Department and the issue will be discussed in the review meeting with the Higher Education Department as well,” she said.

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Kashmir Education

Celebrating Academic Excellence: Prof. Akbar Masood Honoured for His Contribution to Education

October 23, 2024 by NOK Desk

In a recent event that highlighted the importance of academic leadership and dedication to education, Prof. Akbar Masood, the Vice Chancellor of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), was honoured for his remarkable contributions to the field of education. The recognition came from the Maharaja Gulab Singh Memorial Trust, an organisation that is dedicated to upholding the values and legacy of one of the most significant historical figures of Jammu and Kashmir, Maharaja Gulab Singh.

The prestigious award was presented to Prof. Masood by Dr. Karan Singh Ji, a highly respected figure and the Chairman of the Trust. Dr. Karan Singh, who himself has a deep-rooted connection with education, politics, and social service, acknowledged Prof. Masood’s unparalleled efforts in shaping the future of the university and fostering academic excellence.

Prof. Akbar Masood’s Journey in Education

Prof. Akbar Masood has been a pillar of educational leadership, known for his visionary approach to advancing higher education. His tenure as Vice Chancellor of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University has been marked by a significant transformation in the institution’s academic standing, research initiatives, and overall development. Under his leadership, BGSBU has made great strides in becoming a centre of excellence, catering to the academic aspirations of students not just from the region but from across the country.

Prof. Masood’s journey in the field of education has been inspiring. His academic career began with a strong focus on research and teaching. Over the years, he has gained recognition not only for his administrative skills but also for his commitment to maintaining high standards of education. His expertise spans several disciplines, and he has always been an advocate for integrating innovation into the traditional educational framework.

The Importance of the Award

The recognition of Prof. Akbar Masood by the Maharaja Gulab Singh Memorial Trust is not just a personal achievement but also a moment of pride for the entire academic community. The Trust, known for its dedication to preserving the legacy of Maharaja Gulab Singh, bestows this honour only on individuals who have made a lasting impact on society through their work. Maharaja Gulab Singh, the founder of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, was not only a skilled ruler but also a visionary who valued education and cultural preservation. The Trust continues to promote these values by recognising leaders in various fields, including education.

The award presented to Prof. Masood is a testament to his relentless dedication to improving the state of education. It acknowledges his efforts in making education accessible, promoting research, and creating an environment where students can thrive and excel. His work aligns with the vision of Maharaja Gulab Singh, who believed in the power of knowledge as a tool for personal and societal growth.

Dr. Karan Singh’s Role in the Event

Dr. Karan Singh Ji, who presented the award, is a prominent figure in Indian public life, known for his contributions to politics, education, and culture. As the son of Maharaja Hari Singh, the last ruling Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Singh has always been involved in initiatives that honour his family’s legacy, particularly those related to education. His deep understanding of the transformative power of education makes him an ideal figure to recognise the achievements of educational leaders like Prof. Masood.

During the award presentation, Dr. Karan Singh Ji highlighted the critical role that educators play in shaping the future of society. He praised Prof. Masood for his outstanding contributions to the field and commended him for his tireless efforts in advancing the quality of education at BGSBU. Dr. Singh expressed his confidence that under the leadership of individuals like Prof. Masood, the region’s educational institutions would continue to flourish and produce future leaders.

The Significance of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University

Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, named after the revered saint Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah, was established with the mission to provide high-quality education to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Over the years, it has grown into a prominent institution offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. The university aims to create a learning environment that fosters innovation, critical thinking, and social responsibility.

Under Prof. Akbar Masood’s leadership, the university has seen substantial improvements in various aspects, from infrastructure development to academic collaborations with national and international institutions. His focus on promoting research and innovation has led to the establishment of several research centres at the university, encouraging students and faculty members to engage in cutting-edge research.

One of Prof. Masood’s significant contributions to the university has been his emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. He believes that a holistic approach to education is essential in today’s rapidly changing world, where problems often require solutions that draw from multiple fields of study. By fostering a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration, Prof. Masood has helped the university remain relevant and responsive to the challenges of the modern world.

Fostering Academic Excellence

Prof. Akbar Masood’s leadership style is characterised by his commitment to academic excellence. He has consistently advocated for the recruitment of highly qualified faculty members, the improvement of teaching methods, and the enhancement of the university’s academic offerings. His focus on maintaining high standards of education has not only improved the university’s ranking but has also attracted students from diverse backgrounds, contributing to a rich and inclusive academic environment.

Moreover, Prof. Masood has placed a strong emphasis on the importance of research in higher education. He has encouraged faculty members to pursue research projects that address both local and global challenges, thereby contributing to the development of knowledge that has practical applications. His efforts have led to the university’s recognition as a hub for research and innovation in the region.

Building a Strong Community

Beyond his contributions to academic excellence, Prof. Masood is also known for his efforts to build a strong sense of community at the university. He understands that education is not just about academic achievement but also about personal growth and the development of character. As such, he has prioritised the creation of a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel valued and empowered to pursue their goals.

One of the initiatives that Prof. Masood has introduced is a mentorship programme, where senior students and faculty members provide guidance and support to junior students. This programme has been instrumental in helping students navigate the challenges of university life and achieve academic success. Additionally, he has been a strong advocate for student involvement in extracurricular activities, recognising the importance of a well-rounded education.

Prof. Masood’s leadership has also been marked by his commitment to social responsibility. He has encouraged the university community to engage in outreach programmes that benefit the local population, particularly in areas related to education and healthcare. These initiatives have not only helped to strengthen the university’s ties with the surrounding community but have also provided students with valuable opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.

The Legacy of Maharaja Gulab Singh

The Maharaja Gulab Singh Memorial Trust, which honoured Prof. Akbar Masood, is an institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of Maharaja Gulab Singh. As the founder of the Dogra dynasty and the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, Maharaja Gulab Singh is remembered for his contributions to the region’s political and cultural history. His vision for a united and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir was rooted in his belief in the importance of strong leadership and education.

The Trust, under the leadership of Dr. Karan Singh Ji, continues to uphold the values that Maharaja Gulab Singh stood for. By recognising individuals like Prof. Masood, the Trust not only honours the contributions of contemporary leaders but also reinforces the enduring significance of education in shaping the future of the region.

Conclusion

The felicitation of Prof. Akbar Masood by the Maharaja Gulab Singh Memorial Trust is a fitting tribute to his outstanding contributions to the field of education. As the Vice Chancellor of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Prof. Masood has played a pivotal role in transforming the institution into a centre of academic excellence. His visionary leadership, commitment to research and innovation, and dedication to student welfare have made a lasting impact on the university and the broader academic community.

This recognition is not just a personal achievement for Prof. Masood but also a reflection of the important role that education plays in society. By honouring educational leaders like Prof. Masood, the Maharaja Gulab Singh Memorial Trust highlights the transformative power of knowledge and the critical need for continued investment in education for the betterment of society.

In celebrating this achievement, it is important to acknowledge the broader implications of such recognition. Leaders like Prof. Masood inspire future generations of educators and students alike, reinforcing the idea that education is the foundation upon which a prosperous and just society is built.

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Kashmir Education

Mr. Tanveer Nasir Successfully Defends PhD on ‘Wildlife Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir: Prospects and Challenges’

October 22, 2024 by NOK Desk

Tanveer Nisar successfully defends his PhD

Mr. Tanveer Nasir, a dedicated Research Scholar from the Centre for Hospitality and Tourism, has successfully defended his PhD viva voce on the topic “A Study of Wildlife Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir: Prospects and Challenges.” The successful completion of his PhD marks a significant achievement in the academic field, contributing valuable insights into the emerging wildlife tourism sector in the region.

Under the guidance of his supervisor, Dr. Danish Iqbal Raina, Mr. Nasir explored the potential and challenges that wildlife tourism faces in Jammu and Kashmir. His research provides a comprehensive analysis of the prospects that wildlife tourism holds for boosting the region’s economy, alongside the environmental and infrastructural challenges that need to be addressed to promote sustainable tourism.

His study not only highlights the rich biodiversity of Jammu and Kashmir but also underscores the necessity for effective management strategies to preserve wildlife habitats while attracting tourists. Mr. Nasir’s research findings are expected to be of immense value to tourism policymakers, conservationists, and entrepreneurs looking to develop sustainable tourism models in the region.

The successful defence of his thesis is a testament to Mr. Nasir’s academic rigour and dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of tourism studies. The Centre for Hospitality and Tourism congratulates him on this outstanding achievement and wishes him continued success in his future academic and professional endeavours.

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Advocate Hafeez Ahmad Lone: Gurez Lawyer Qualifies UPSC Public Prosecutor Exam, Bringing Pride to Jammu and Kashmir

Kashmir Education

Advocate Hafeez Ahmad Lone: Gurez Lawyer Qualifies UPSC Public Prosecutor Exam, Bringing Pride to Jammu and Kashmir

October 21, 2024 by NOK Desk

Advocate Hafeez Ahmad Lone, hailing from the remote village of Wanpora in the Gurez Valley of Bandipora district, has brought immense pride to his community by achieving a remarkable milestone—qualifying for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Public Prosecutor Exam 2023. This accomplishment has not only earned him national recognition but also made him a beacon of hope for aspiring candidates from Jammu and Kashmir.

Lone’s extraordinary feat came with an impressive 44th rank in the All India Rank (AIR) list, making him the sole candidate from Jammu and Kashmir to clear this prestigious exam. The UPSC Public Prosecutor Exam, which is conducted for coveted positions within the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), involved a rigorous selection process. The written exam took place on December 17, 2023, followed by interviews between September 17 and September 20, 2024. On October 17, 2024, when the final results were announced, Hafeez Ahmad Lone was named as one of the 48 successful candidates across the country.

This achievement has etched Lone’s name in history as the fourth person from District Bandipora to qualify for the UPSC, and more notably, he is only the second candidate from the entire Kashmir Valley to clear the UPSC Public Prosecutor Exam. His success is a testament to his unwavering perseverance, grit, and passion.

The journey to this triumph was far from easy. Advocate Hafeez Ahmad Lone spent 14 long years attempting various state-level Public Service Commission exams, facing numerous setbacks along the way. Yet, despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in his pursuit of success. “I was fortunate enough to be among the 48 successful candidates this year,” Lone reflected, acknowledging how the numerous disappointments in state-level exams could not deter him. “For 14 years, I continued my persistent struggle to achieve something extraordinary,” he added, demonstrating his resilience.

To qualify for the UPSC Public Prosecutor Exam, a candidate must have at least seven years of experience as an advocate, specifically handling criminal cases in courts across the country. This demanding requirement meant that Lone had to not only meet high academic standards but also gain extensive professional experience in the legal field. His legal journey began with humble roots. He completed his early education at Government High School Wanpora, followed by higher secondary studies at HSS Dawar. He later pursued his graduation at Degree College Baramulla before obtaining his LLB from the University of Kashmir. After earning his law degree, Lone started practising law at the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court in Srinagar, as well as in subordinate courts.

Currently, Hafeez Ahmad Lone holds a significant position as a Law Officer in the Department of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs in the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Secretariat. His achievement, however, is not just a personal victory; it is a symbol of years of hard work, dedication, and overcoming adversity.

One of the most poignant aspects of Lone’s story is the adversities he faced early in life. Orphaned at just two months old, he was raised by his grandfather and mother, who were instrumental in shaping his life and career. His grandfather, Late Abdul Rehman Lone, and his mother, Ms. Sajida Begam, made countless sacrifices to ensure that he received an education and had the opportunities needed to pursue his dreams. “It was my family’s unwavering support that enabled me to reach this stage,” Lone said, speaking with deep gratitude. “My grandfather always encouraged me to aim high, and my mother sacrificed so much to ensure that I never lacked anything.”

He also credited his wife, Ms. Naheeda Nisar, for being a constant source of support and encouragement throughout his journey. “I owe this success to her as well,” he remarked, reflecting on how her belief in him never wavered, even during the most challenging moments of his journey.

Lone did not achieve this success alone. He expressed his heartfelt thanks to his colleagues and senior officers, including Law Secretary Shri Achal Sethi, Secretary ARI Department Muzaffar Hussain, Secretary Assembly Manoj Bhat, and others, for their support and guidance throughout his career. Their encouragement helped him stay focused on his goals and continue striving for excellence.

As a source of inspiration for future generations, Advocate Hafeez Ahmad Lone has an important message for aspiring candidates. “Perseverance and hard work are the keys to success,” he emphasised. “It’s not just about passing the UPSC exam or any other test, but about achieving any goal in life. If you struggle and work hard, luck will eventually favour you.” He added that with consistency, motivation, and dedication, even the most difficult exams can be cleared. “Nothing is impossible,” he affirmed, pointing to his own life as an example of overcoming obstacles through determination.

Lone’s journey is deeply inspired by the famous quote from Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea: “A man can be destroyed but not defeated.” His personal story, from growing up in a remote village in the Gurez Valley to becoming one of the few from the region to clear the UPSC Public Prosecutor Exam, stands as a powerful reminder of the strength of human will and the importance of family support.

In conclusion, Advocate Hafeez Ahmad Lone’s remarkable achievement not only highlights his own perseverance but also serves as a beacon of hope for countless others. His success underscores the belief that with hard work, persistence, and support from loved ones, any goal, no matter how challenging, can be achieved.

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Kashmir Education

Halqu e Adab Sonawari (HAS) Honors Literary Icons at Municipality Hall in Annual Conference

October 20, 2024 by NOK Desk

Halqu e Adab Sonawari (HAS), the oldest literary organization in Kashmir, held its annual literary conference on Saturday at Municipality Hall here.

Paying tribute to three former office bearers, esteemed members and literary figures who have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Kashmir: Prof. Mohi ud Din Hajini, Mohammad Ahsan Ahsan, and Dr. Aziz Hajini.

The conference was graced by a distinguished gathering of literary personalities who commemorated the contributions of these icons with heartfelt tributes. Organized with the help of J&K Bank, Kanwal Foods & Spices, the event commenced with the recitation of Quranic verses by Rameez Ahmed, setting a reflective tone for the proceedings. This was followed by a moving Naat presented by Qazi Masroor.

In his welcome address, Azhar Hajini highlighted the significance of the conference and the profound impact that Prof. Mohid ud Din Hajini, Mohammad Ahsan Ahsan, and Dr. Aziz Hajini have on the literary scene of the valley. Azhar expressed happiness over the participation of good number of writers, poets and people from different sections of the society in the one day conference.
A key highlight of the event was the Mohi ud Din Hajini Memorial Lecture, delivered by Shakir Shafi. His lecture, titled “Artificial Intelligence and Kashmiri Language: Apprehensions and Possibilities,” sparked meaningful discussions on the intersection of technology and language preservation, emphasizing the need to safeguard and promote the Kashmiri language in the digital age.

Zameer Ansari presented a detailed paper on Mohammad Ahsan Ahsan, emphasizing the myriad qualities of the late poet and recognizing him as an important pillar of the literary organization. Prof. Shaad Ramzan, Convenor of the Sahitya Akademi’s Kashmiri Advisory Board, described the multifaceted contributions of Dr. Aziz Hajini. He lauded him as a great administrator, a born orator, and a literary giant, stating that the soil of Hajin is blessed to have given birth to such luminaries.He reviewed some famous poems of Dr Hajini.

The conference also featured the prestigious Khilat e Hajini 2024 award, which was awarded to renowned poet Shahnaz Rashid. Additionally, the Khilat e Aziz Hajini Award was presented to Nissar Dildar an elderly mystic poet from Chrarisharief, honoring the enduring legacy of creativity in the region. Asmat Maqbool, who achieved the highest marks at the graduation level in the Kashmiri subject, was the recipient of this year’s Aziz Hajini Golden Medal. The award comprised of a certificate of apperception also. In a generous gesture, Mohammad Amin Bhat presented a cash prize of Rs. 3,300 from his own pocket to the young girl student, underscoring the spirit of encouragement and support for showing interest in Kashmiri.
First session of the conference was Presided over by President Adbee Markaz Kamraz J&K Mohammad Amin Bhat. Rafiq Masoodi, Prof Shaad Ramzan, Mushtaq Ahmed Mushtaq, Abdul Ahad Hajini and Rukhsana Jabeen also remained present in the presidium. The 3rd and last session of the conference was based on the literary presentations of Ali Mohammad Nishtar and Sagar Sarfaraz. A paper on the poem of Sagar Sarfaraz was presented by Shabaz Hakbari while as Imran Iftikhar’s written review was also included. The valedictory session was presided over by Ismail Ashna. He was accompanied by Haji Gh Nabi Dar, Abdul Khaliq Shams and Akhter Mansoor in the presidium.

Dr Reyaz ul Hassan conducted proceedings of the first two sessions while as the post lunch session was compared by Dr Firdous. The vote of thanks was presented by Majeed Majazy. Prominent among the others who were present in the conference included Shabnum Tilgami, Shiekh Ghulam Mohammad, G N Shakir, DySP Rameez Bhat, Inayat ullah Parray, Nazir Javid, Ghulam Din Bahar, Farooq Shaheen, Mohammad Ashraf Malla, Fareeda Shauq and Mohammad Yousf Shaheen.(KNS).

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Kashmir Education

Er Rashid Sanctions 15 Lakh for Tangmarg College, 5 Lakh for Wagoora School

October 20, 2024 by NOK Desk

Member of Parliament from Baramulla, Er Rashid, embarked on a comprehensive review tour of key areas in the district today, addressing pressing developmental issues and engaging with local stakeholders.

The day began at the Dak Bungalow in Baramulla, where Er Rashid chaired a crucial meeting along with Cheif Engineer and other officials from the Roads and Buildings (R&B) department. The meeting covered a range of issues, including languishing projects and macadamization, among other infrastructural challenges that need immediate attention.

Following the meeting, the MP inspected the construction of a bridge at Shrakwara and paid a visit to the Primary Health Center (PHC) in the same locality to assess healthcare facilities. He also visited the Government Higher Secondary School in Wagoora, where he announced a grant of ?5 lakh for school infrastructure development. Additionally, he inspected the Government High School Wagoora to ensure the educational infrastructure was adequate.

Continuing his tour, Er Rashid visited Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Kreeri to review the healthcare services provided there. He later chaired a meeting with officers of the Sub-Division Tangmarg at the Community Hall in Tangmarg, where various local issues were discussed.

During the review meeting at Tangmarg, the MP expressed disappointment upon learning that six classrooms of a local school were being operated out of a single room. He directed the concerned officers to expedite the construction of the new school building to resolve the issue promptly.

MP Er Rashid visited Gulmarg, where he engaged with various stakeholders, including tourist associations, shopkeepers and hoteliers. During his interaction, he was shocked to learn that Gulmarg lacked essential public facilities like restrooms, both in the market area and at the popular Baby Slope in the golf course. He assured the locals and tourists that he would raise the matter with the appropriate authorities to address the issue urgently.

Er Rashid also inspected SDH Tangmarg where he assured for all possible help. He assured that radiologist will be made present round the clock. Er Rashid also visited PHC Kunzer where he resolved the issue of essential line for PHC Kunzer.(KNS).

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Sajad Mehraj: From Bread Seller to Future Doctor, The Inspiring Journey of Sajad Mehraj

October 15, 2024 by NOK Desk

Determination, willpower, and hard work. These qualities can make even the toughest dream come true. This has been proven by 19-year-old Sajad Mehraj from the remote Kupwara district in Kashmir.

Despite selling bread to support his family, Sajad scored an incredible 650 out of 750 in his exams, as reported by the *Hindustan Times*. His focus and commitment show that nothing can stop you if you truly believe in yourself.

Sajad’s inspiring story is one of overcoming obstacles. In a YouTube video, he talked about a classmate who once mocked him for selling bread while studying. “Why allow street sellers in school? What will they achieve?” the classmate had said. But his sister, the first doctor in their village, motivated him to push harder and prove everyone wrong.

Balancing Work and Studies

Sajad’s day starts at 4 AM. He works at his bread stall for 7-8 hours, making around 300 loaves, while still managing his online lectures. His determination shines through his daily routine of hard work and study.

From the 4th grade, he helped his family’s businesses, running a footwear and crockery stall with his brother. After his father fell ill, Sajad took charge, starting his own bread stall to support the family.

But even with all these responsibilities, he excelled in school, topped his class in Year 8, and earned a scholarship in Year 9 from the Kashmir Education Initiative. His headteacher even bought him an online course for ₹2,000 to help him prepare for the NEET exam.

A Family of Education

Sajad’s elder sister passed the NEET exam and is currently studying in her second year at a medical school. Their father, though not well-educated, always encouraged his children to learn and dream big.

Sajad is now set to join the Government Medical College in Handwara to fulfil his dream of becoming a doctor. His story isn’t just about success – it’s a source of hope for many young people facing similar struggles.

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Government Medical College Srinagar Welcomes MBBS Batch 2024 with Grand Ceremony and Introductions

October 15, 2024 by NOK Desk

Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar held a grand ceremony on Monday to welcome the new MBBS Batch of 2024. During the event, the freshers were introduced to the Heads of Departments, faculty members, administration, and academic staff, marking the start of their medical journey.

The students were briefed on the college’s rules, regulations, and academic schedules, as well as the range of facilities available to them. They were introduced to key departments such as Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and others that are central to their undergraduate studies.

Additionally, the new batch was familiarised with associated hospitals, including Govt. SMHS Hospital, Govt. Super Specialty Hospital, Govt. 500-Bedded Children Hospital Bemina, Govt. Bone & Joint Hospital, Govt. Chest Disease Hospital, Govt. LD Hospital, Kashmir Nursing Home, and the Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences. They also received an overview of peripheral health centres linked with the Department of Community Medicine.

In her welcome address, the Principal and Dean of GMC Srinagar, Prof. Dr Iffat Hassan, warmly greeted the students and their parents. She emphasised the college’s dedication to delivering high-quality medical education, highlighting its academic excellence, clinical exposure, research opportunities, and comprehensive student support services. Parents were encouraged to work closely with teachers and the college administration to help shape their children into capable and compassionate doctors.

Heads of various departments, including Prof. Nahid Nahvi (Microbiology), Prof. Ghulam Mohammad (Anatomy), Prof. Sabiya Majeed (Biochemistry), Prof. Shahzada Salim Khan (Community Medicine), Dr Arsalan (Forensic Medicine), Prof. Rakesh Kaul (Medicine), Prof. Iqbal Saleem (General Surgery), Prof. Muzzafar Jan (Paediatrics), Prof. Mohammad Maqbool (Psychiatry), Prof. Altaf Kawoosa (Orthopaedics), Dr Yasmeen Jabeen (Dermatology), Prof. Masuma Rizvi (Gynaecology & Obstetrics), and Prof. Shoukat Ahmad Kadla (Gastroenterology), also introduced their respective departments. They highlighted the departmental strengths, faculty expertise, teaching approaches, and research focus areas, while extending a warm welcome to the students.

The Administrator of the associated hospitals, Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, and other administrative staff were introduced to the freshers as well.

Prof. Suhail Ahmad Gilkar from the Physiology department, who is also the Coordinator of the Medical Education Unit (MEU), moderated the event. He provided an overview of GMC Srinagar and administered the induction oath to the students. Additionally, the Deputy Registrar of Academics, Prof. Saleem Ittoo, briefed the students on the teaching programmes and encouraged them to work hard, develop critical thinking, and seek guidance from their faculty and mentors.