Author: ValleyObserver

Categories
BUSINESS

SKUAST-K Charts New Path for Rural Transformation through Federation of RBSHs under HADP-04

Srinagar, November 3: Institute of Business and Policy Research (IBPR), Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), kick started a two-day inception workshop on “Federation Ecosystem for Rural Business and Service Hubs (RBSHs)” under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP-04) from November 3-4, 2025 at the University’s Shalimar Campus.

The workshop was inaugurated by Ghulam Jeelani Zargar, Director, Horticulture Planning and Marketing, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Prof Shabir A Wani, former Director, Planning and Monitoring, SKUAST-K, was the Guest of Honour. The event brought together a diverse group of experts, academicians, field officers, and representatives from emerging RBSHs across Kashmir to deliberate on building a robust, federated ecosystem to accelerate rural enterprise development and agri-business transformation.

In his address, Prof Farhat Ahmad Shaheen, Head, IBPR, and Principal Investigator, HADP# 04, emphasized that the Federation of RBSHs will act as a backbone for decentralized rural development, bridging primary producers with markets, services, and value networks. Presenting the Federation Framework Model, Prof. Shaheen outlined a hub-and-spoke approach to connect individual RBSHs with sectoral experts, agri-input manufacturing firms, digital service providers, and academic institutions to enhance efficiency and market outreach. He highlighted the importance of synergizing policy, practice, and grassroots entrepreneurship, stressing that “building dialogue between policymakers, practitioners, and rural entrepreneurs is crucial for transforming agricultural trade and service ecosystems.” He urged all stakeholders to focus on scalable, innovation-driven business models that empower youth, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen local economies through collaboration and enterprise.

Prof. Shabir A. Wani, in his remarks, lauded IBPR’s vision and leadership in conceptualizing the Federation Model as a scalable and replicable pathway for sustainable rural growth. He emphasized the need for evidence-based planning, integrated development strategies, and long-term sustainability models to empower RBSHs as self-sustaining, dynamic rural enterprises.

Addressing the participants, Shri Ghulam Jeelani Zargar underscored the transformative potential of RBSHs in reshaping the rural economy by enabling last-mile delivery of agricultural services, technology, and business solutions. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment under HADP to foster entrepreneurial networks and promote institutional convergence among public agencies, private stakeholders, and rural communities.

Dr. Abid Sultan, Scientist, IBPR, and Workshop Coordinator, presented the detailed structure of the workshop, highlighting the thematic sessions on Federation Governance, Business Mapping, Knowledge Integration, and Capacity Building Strategies, and delivered the formal vote of thanks. Ms. Aiman Fayaz, Young Professional, HADP-04, coordinated the workshop proceedings.

The workshop reflected IBPR SKUAST-K’s strong commitment to transforming the agricultural marketing ecosystem by fostering innovation, integration, and rural enterprise development. It reaffirmed the institute’s vision of building a federated, market-led, and technology-driven rural economy under the HADP framework.

Categories
EDUCATION

DSEK Reaffirms Commitment to Fair and Student-Centric Conduct of Examinations Across Kashmir Division

Director leads comprehensive monitoring in Srinagar

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 3: The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ensuring the smooth, fair, and student-friendly conduct of the ongoing examinations across the Kashmir Division.

In a proactive move to uphold transparency and excellence, Director School Education Kashmir, Naseer Ahmad Wani, today personally led a comprehensive monitoring exercise in Srinagar.

He was accompanied by Chief Accounts Officer, Syed Mubashirah, and Chief Education Officer Srinagar, Gh. Mohi-ud-din Bhat.

The Director visited several key examination centres including GHSS Kothibagh, Presentation Convent Higher Secondary School Rajbagh, High School Natipora, and High School Hyderpora, where he interacted with students and staff, reviewed arrangements on the ground, and extended his best wishes for a smooth and stress-free examination experience.

Speaking on the occasion, the Director said, “We are here to assure our students that the administration is fully dedicated to their success. Our top priority is to maintain a fair, transparent, and supportive environment. I appeal to all concerned staff to ensure a smooth and stress-free examination in every nook and corner of the Kashmir Division.”

Meanwhile, under the supervision of DSEK, multiple teams from the Directorate fanned out across all districts of the Kashmir Division to maintain strict vigilance and uphold uniform standards of conduct. Joint Directors visited several examination centres, including those in remote and far-flung areas of Kupwara and Anantnag districts, ensuring consistency and adherence to established protocols.

Additionally, Personnel Officer DSEK, Dr. Iqbal Hussain Mir, conducted a detailed review of arrangements across various centres in District Budgam, expressing satisfaction over the effective and disciplined conduct of the examinations.

The Directorate remains resolutely committed to maintaining transparency, discipline, and a student-centric atmosphere throughout the examination processes, ensuring that every student is provided a fair opportunity to perform to the best of their abilities.

 

Categories
JAMMU

SBI donates ₹1.55 crore to Chief Minister’s Relief Fund

CM Omar Abdullah lauds SBI’s gesture of solidarity, service beyond banking

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 3: A deputation of the State Bank of India (SBI) today called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the Civil Secretariat, Jammu, and presented a cheque of ₹1.55 crore as a contribution to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.

The delegation was led by Jayant Mani, Deputy General Manager (Business and Operations) and Controlling Head for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his gratitude to the SBI employees for their generous contribution, describing it as “a noble gesture of solidarity and service beyond banking.”
He said the donation reflects SBI’s continued commitment to social responsibility and its deep bond with the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Categories
BUSINESS

Fisheries Department Kupwara Stocks Brown Trout Fingerlings in Designated Trout Streams

KUPWARA, NOVEMBER 03: The Department of Fisheries Kupwara has undertaken a significant initiative by stocking Brown Trout fingerlings in the upper reaches of Mawar, Dringyari, and Kalaroose streams, which have been officially declared as trout streams under the J&K Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 2018.
The genetically improved eyed ova of Brown Trout were imported from Denmark under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampadha Yojana (PMMSY) 2024–25 and were reared to fingerling size at the departmental hatchery in Kulgam before being released into the natural streams.
This milestone initiative aims to replenish and enrich natural trout habitats, ensuring the sustenance of fish biodiversity and promoting sport fishing in the region.
Pertinently, Brown Trout, a globally renowned sport fish, attracts anglers from across the world. Kashmir, known as the “Angler’s Paradise,” continues to host thousands of fishing enthusiasts every year.
In Kupwara, several anglers have already started visiting these streams to enjoy trout fishing in the pristine waters. Apart from recreation, trout angling contributes significantly to eco-tourism promotion and environmental conservation, while also encouraging responsible interaction with nature.
The Department of Fisheries has reiterated its commitment to strengthen sustainable fisheries management and promote angling-based tourism in the district.

Categories
JAMMU

Jammu accords warm welcome to CM Omar Abdullah on arrival after Darbar Move

Restoration of Darbar Move practice “a welcome experience,” rekindles Jammu city’s enthusiasm: CM

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 3: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was today accorded a rousing reception by the people of Jammu on the first day of opening of offices in Jammu. The biannual Darbar Move, to be followed now onwards, marks the formal opening of offices in the winter capital.

As per the day’s schedule, the Chief Minister arrived at Shaheedi Chowk, Jammu at 9:15 AM, where he was warmly received and felicitated by the Jammu Chamber of Commerce, Residency Road and Rajinder Bazar Associations.

Thereafter, the Chief Minister walked towards Raghunath Bazar Chowk via Residency Road, greeting traders and citizens who lined the route to extend greetings and best wishes on his arrival.

At Raghunath Bazar Chowk, Omar Abdullah was felicitated by the Raghunath Bazar Association before proceeding on foot towards City Chowk, where he was received by members of the City Chowk Bazar and Kanak Mandi Bazar Associations.

Later, the Chief Minister was received at the Civil Secretariat, where he was presented with a Guard of Honour, marking the opening of offices as part of the traditional Darbar Move.

The Chief Minister inspected the ceremonial parade and interacted with officers and staff on the occasion.

Following the ceremonial reception, Omar Abdullah chaired a high-level meeting with the Council of Ministers and Administrative Secretaries to get an update on the functioning of various departments and assess the administrative preparedness following the move.

Addressing the meeting, the Chief Minister described the restoration of the Darbar in Jammu after a gap of four years as “a welcome experience” that has infused a wave of enthusiasm and happiness across the city and its adjoining areas.

He, however, underlined the challenges ahead, noting that the government is now at a crucial juncture where “actual ground delivery is expected.”

“All planning and discussion phases have been completed. It is now time to translate the decisions into tangible outcomes on the ground,” Omar Abdullah emphasised.

The Chief Minister directed all departments to focus on the timely implementation of projects already sanctioned and approved, ensuring visible progress at the grassroots level.

Acknowledging the financial constraints being faced, Omar Abdullah assured that the matter of limited resources “will be appropriately addressed.” He called for a balanced approach, urging officers to “ensure effective delivery while simultaneously curbing unnecessary expenditure.”

The Chief Minister also informed that a series of district-level review meetings have already been conducted in the Kashmir province and that similar interactions will now be initiated across the Jammu division to assess developmental progress and address public issues.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah commended all departments for their coordinated efforts in ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of the recently concluded Assembly session.

Categories
EDUCATION

FYUGP 2025-26 Admissions Open for 10+2 Biannual Pass-Outs: Director Colleges

TASKEEN ALI

SRINAGAR, September 26, 2025 : Professor (Dr.) Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges, Department of Higher Education, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, has announced the opening of admissions to Four-Year Undergraduate Programs (FYUGP) for the Academic Session 2025-2026 for 10+2 Biannual pass-out students. Admissions will be open across all Government Degree Colleges in Jammu & Kashmir starting from September 29, 2025.

Eligible candidates can register and apply online through the Samarth Portal at https://jkadmissions.samarth.ac.in. Students are advised to consult the Admission Counselling Centers of their preferred colleges to seek guidance and complete the admission process for the program of their choice.

Regular candidates who could not secure admission in earlier rounds are also eligible to apply during this period.
For detailed guidelines and eligibility criteria, candidates are advised to read the official notification available on the Samarth Portal.

Categories
EDUCATION

Dr. Waheed Ahmad Khanday of SP College Ranked Among Stanford’s Top 2% Scientists Globally

Srinagar: In a moment of great pride for SP College Srinagar and the academic community of Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Waheed Ahmad Khanday, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, has been recognized among the worlds top 2% scientists by Stanford University, USA, for the year 2025.

Dr. Khanday has made significant contributions in the field of Chemical Engineering, with a particular focus on waste management, environmental safety, and water treatment technologies. His impactful research has earned him wide recognition at the international level. Over the course of his career, he has published more than 55 research articles in reputed journals, which have collectively received around 4000 citations, reflecting the global relevance and quality of his work.

Reacting to the achievement, the Principal of SP College Srinagar congratulated Dr. Khanday, stating:
It is a matter of immense pride for SP College that one of our own faculty members has been placed in Stanford University’s list of the worlds top 2% scientists. This recognition not only highlights Dr. Waheeds dedication and scholarly excellence but also underscores the potential of academic talent within college setups. His achievement will serve as an inspiration for faculty and students alike. On behalf of the college fraternity, I extend my heartiest congratulations to Dr. Waheed and wish him greater success in the years to come.

The recognition of Dr. Khandays work at such a prestigious global platform is being hailed as a remarkable feat, especially for a college-based scientist. It highlights the strong research culture being nurtured at SP College Srinagar and opens new horizons for collaborative research in environmental and chemical sciences.

Categories
SPORTS

KU begins 10-day AFC ‘B’ football coaching course with AIFF, FPAI

Participants from across India to attend intensive football coach education programme

Srinagar, Sept 05: To strengthen coach education and promote professional football training in the region, a 10-day AFC “B” Diploma Coaching Course commenced on Friday at the University of Kashmir (KU). The programme is being organised by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in collaboration with the Directorate of Physical Education and Sports (DPES), KU, and the Football Players’ Association of India (FPAI).
A total of 24 football enthusiasts from North India, South India, Central India, and the North-Eastern states are participating in the course, which is designed to provide modern training methodologies, advanced coaching techniques, and updated practices to aspiring football coaches.
Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, in her message, highlighted the importance of the programme, terming it an important step towards nurturing sporting talent in the country.
“The University is committed to promoting sports education alongside academic excellence. Collaborations with premier institutions like AIFF and FPAI provide our youth with global-level exposure and opportunities to excel in sports. Initiatives like these strengthen our resolve to make varsity a hub of sporting talent and professional training,” she said.
Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chishti, Director, Centre for Distance and Online Education KU, at the inaugural session, lauded the DPES for conducting impactful activities and termed the course a significant step towards advancing football coaching at the national level.
Prof. Musavir Ahmad, Head, Department of Linguistics and Media Advisor, KU, also addressed the gathering and highlighted the University’s growing partnerships with national sporting bodies and federations.
Earlier, Dr. Surjeet Singh, Coordinator, DPES KU, in his welcome address, said that the Directorate is committed to advancing coach education and skill development in football.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by administrative officers, coaches, AIFF officials, representatives from FPAI, veteran footballers, and several international players.

Categories
EDUCATION JAMMU KASHMIR

Class Work Suspended in All Government Degree Colleges and GCETs Across J&K Till September 6: Director Colleges

TASKEEN ARA

Srinagar, September 4: The Directorate of Higher Education Government of Jammu and Kashmir has announced the suspension of class work in all Government Degree Colleges and Government College(s) of Engineering and Technology (GCETs) across the Union Territory.

According to Order No. 92-DC (HE) of 2025, dated 04-09-2025, the direction has been taken in view of the prevailing adverse weather conditions, as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of students.

Class work in these institutions will remain suspended till 06th September 2025 (Saturday). Regular academic activities are scheduled to resume from 08th September 2025 (Monday).

The order has been issued by Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges, Higher Education Department, J&K.

Students have been advised to stay updated through official college communication channels and remain indoors, prioritizing their safety during this period of inclement weather.

Categories
EDUCATION

KU shines in NIRF 2025 rankings, 8th among State Public Universities

Achieves 34th rank in university category; maintains top-50 position for third consecutive year

Srinagar, Sept 04: Riding the momentum of its NAAC A++ triumph in May this year, the University of Kashmir (KU) has marked another milestone in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 released by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. The University has secured 34th rank (57.13 points) in the University Category, a jump from its 45th position (54.43 points) in 2024.

In the Overall Category, KU now stands at 59th rank (54.31 points), compared to 69th rank (52.14 points) last year. It has also achieved an impressive 8th place among all State Public Universities (SPUs) across India, cementing its standing as a top-10 institution in this category. Notably, KU remains the only University from Jammu & Kashmir to feature among the nation’s top-50 universities in the University Category.

This year’s success is powered by stronger performance in Research and Professional Practices (RP), where its score rose to 34.74 from 31.25 in 2024. Within RP, the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR – patents) sub-parameter registered remarkable growth, climbing to 1.25 in 2025 compared to 0.50 in 2024, highlighting the University’s growing emphasis on innovation, patent filings, and technology-driven research. The Teaching, Learning and Resources (TLR) parameter also recorded progress, with KU scoring 74.05 points, up from 71.14 last year. These gains collectively show KU’s strengthened focus on high-quality research, innovation, and digital learning initiatives.

Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, extended her gratitude to the varsity’s leadership and congratulated the entire KU community on this impressive success.

“Climbing the NIRF tables is a proud moment for all of us. It reflects our collective resolve to raise academic standards, deepen research, and deliver student-centric outcomes. I express my gratitude to our Chancellor, Shri Manoj Sinha; Pro-Chancellor, Mr. Omar Abdullah; Minister for Higher Education J&K, Ms. Sakina Itoo; and Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department, J&K Shri Shantmanu (IAS) for their constant guidance and support. I also warmly congratulate our faculty, scholars, students and non- teaching staff whose dedication and hard work have made this milestone possible,” she said.

Prof. Khan also lauded Director DIQA KU, Prof. Manzoor Shah and his entire team for the efforts and professional coordination of the entire ranking exercise.

Dean Academic Affairs KU, Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, said that KU’s upward trajectory reflects a robust academic ecosystem driven by committed faculty, active student engagement, and the integration of research and digital resources across programmes.

Dean Research KU, Prof. Mohammad Sultan Bhat, noted that KU’s growing national visibility stems from steady gains in publications, patents and technology-led research, positioning the University to expand its impact on society and industry.

Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, said that the improved ranking is the outcome of institutional synergy, with faculty, students, researchers and the administration working in tandem towards clearly defined goals.

Notably in May 2025, KU earned the prestigious NAAC A++ grade with the highest CGPA score in its history, becoming the first higher education institution in J&K to be assessed under NAAC’s revised, more rigorous framework. With a third consecutive year in India’s top-50, KU has consolidated its standing as a leading centre of higher learning, research and innovation.

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