SRINAGAR, APRIL 26: To oversee the progress of various ongoing projects funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Additional Director JKST&IC, Dr. Nasir Ahmad Shah, today visited SP College where he inspected various departments including Hydrobiology Research Lab.
Principal Prof. (Dr.) Gh Jeelani Qurashi along with senior faculty members including Prof. Bashir Ahmad Mir Head Department of Chemistry, Prof. Manzoor Ahmad Wani Head Department of Botany, Dr. Khurshid Ahmad Parray, Dr. Shabana Aslam Convenor Innovation Cell and others accompanied him.
He was apprised about the progress of research and innovation initiatives taken up by the institution.
Dr. Nasir Ahmad Shah interacted with the scholars and assured them of all possible cooperation. He expressed his satisfaction over the ongoing research activities within the institution.
He also assured coordination for establishment of state of art hi-tech green house in the college Botanical Garden as a centralized facility for preservation and conservation of exotic plants and other horticultural research activities.
SRINAGAR APRIL 25: The Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Mohammad Aijaz Asad today paid a visit to ShankarAcharya Temple on the top of Zabarwan hills to extend warm greetings to the devotees on the eve of ShankarAcharya Jayanti marking the birth of Adi Shankara ji, an 8th century Indian philosopher and theologian. On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by members of the Dharmarth Trust and other functionaries of ShankarAcharya Temple Management Committee. While extending warm greetings on the occasion, the DC expressed hope that this day would contribute towards strengthening brotherhood, unity, harmony and would be a harbinger of peace, progress and prosperity in J&K in general and in District Srinagar in particular. The Management of ShankarAcharya Temple and the devotees present on the occasion expressed satisfaction over the arrangements and conveyed their gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner in this regard. During the visit, the DC also inspected the Langar and other arrangements made by the District Administration Srinagar for the devotees including Water supply, electricity, smooth transport facility, etc.
SRINAGAR, APRIL 25: J&K Bank today received an award from Housing and Urban Development Corporation Ltd (HUDCO) for its outstanding contribution towards housing sector of the country under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) – Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) through various innovative initiatives.
The Bank’s General Manager (C&CB) Narjay Gupta received the award at the hands of Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Manoj Joshi in presence of Chairman & Managing Director (HUDCO) Kuldip Narayan, Bank’s Zonal Head (Delhi) Rakesh Magotra, HUDCO’s board of directors and other dignitaries during HUDCO’s 53rd Foundation Day Celebrations held today in New Delhi.
The function was inaugurated by the Union Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs and Petroleum & Natural Gas Hardeep S. Puri.
Commenting upon the felicitation, MD & CEO, Baldev Prakash said, “It is an honour for the entire J&K Bank Family to be felicitated at such a prestigious national platform for our contribution towards country’s housing sector under Prime Minister Awas Yojana (PMAY)-U that envisaged ease-of-living through a pucca house to all urban dwellers.”
“Such an acknowledgement will further boost our efforts as we continue to serve the weaker and vulnerable sections of society through more such effective financial interventions”, he added.
Earlier, in a communication to Bank, Chairman & MD (HUDCO) Kuldip Narayan expressed his deep appreciation for J&K Bank’s outstanding contribution towards housing sector under PMAY-CLSS through its different innovative initiatives.
SRINAGAR, APRIL 25: Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Bhupender Kumar, today visited Kashmir Nursing Home here at Gupkar to take first hand appraisal of healthcare facilities being made in the Kashmir Nursing Home for the upcoming G20 summit to be held in Kashmir in May. Secretary was accompanied by Principal Government Medical College, Srinagar, Dr. Tanveer Masood and Director, Health Services Kashmir, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Rather. Secretary visited all sections of the Nursing Home and reviewed ongoing works being executed regarding healthcare facilities for the G20 summit. He directed the Principal GMC and Medical Superintendent Kashmir Nursing Home to expedite the pending works and make the hospital fully ready in all respects within a fortnight. He also directed the Medical Superintendent to increase the OPD footfalls of the hospital so that the people are benefited at large. Pertinent to mention, Secretary Health and Medical Education has been regularly taking stock of healthcare arrangements for G20 meetings to ensure all requisite facilities available for the visiting dignitaries. The medical staff is being trained and updated regarding healthcare equipment and facilities which will be available during the G20 summit.
New Delhi: In the Vishwavidyala Anusandhan Utsav 2023, organized by the Department of Science and Technology, GoI, Union MoS (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS (Independent Charge) Earth Sciences; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, felicitated IUST among other recipient Institutions of the PURSE Grant. Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo Vice Chancellor, IUST led the IUST’s delegation that comprised Dean Health Sciences, Prof Ayub Qadri, Dr. Muzaffar Rasool, Dr. Basharat Nabi, Dr. Arsheed Ganaie and Dr. Manzoor Ahmad. IUST has bagged the project worth 10 cr. under “Promotion of University Research and Scientific Excellence (PURSE)” which is a flagship scheme for promotion and strengthening of the research ecosystem of the Universities, pan India. Pertinently, IUST guided by its strategic plan (2021-2026) has seen a manifold increase in the research outcomes in the form of patents, publications, collaborations with different institutions, promotion of research in frontier areas etc. In fact, in the last two years, the extra mural funding to the IUST has increased drastically to the tune of 42.38 cr. giving further impetus to the research and development activities. Further, under the NEP 2020, IUST has approved Kalam Academy of Training & Skills and has instituted various in- demand skilling courses and aims to skill over 3000 youth under the PMKVY 4.0 in promising areas.
Srinagar: Early in the morning, Ghulam Qadir Akhoon, a retired gardener starts watering saplings in his flower nursery in his family owned land in Srinagar.
His nursery is among one of the largest nurseries in the valley. Growing hundreds of varieties of ornamental and flowering plants, the nature enthusiast is now an employer of about 20 people.
“I was joined by my two siblings in running the nursery, as soon as they got an inkling of its potential,” he says while referring to his two brothers who assisted the agripreneur in running the successful flower business.
“Now my son, three nephews and a niece are also engaged in the same trade,” says the gardener while asserting that what was once a hobby has gradually transformed into a flourishing family business.
Two kilometers from this nursery is a small cottage housing Golden Flower Nursery. Arranged in a scientific design, the thousands of plants comprising of dozens of varieties reflect a perfect compatibility with the picturesque landscape of Boulevard road running between the Zabarwan hills and Dal lake. Established about a decade ago, the nursery is preferred stopover for both local as well as domestic tourists who throng the area for sightseeing.
“I have bought two chinar saplings. I would like to grow this magnificent plant back at home”, says a tourist from Mumbai. “Besides I would like to take some Holland bulbs from here,” adds the tourist, while taking selfies around the nursery.
As the demand for ornamental and flowering plants sees the uptick -more and more people are being attracted towards the trade resulting in the generation of employment and revenue.
Ghulam Mohi Ud Din, the owner of Golden Flowers says that earlier he used to do it all alone but now there are about nine workers who assist him. “If the demand persists, I’ll have to employ more people,” he adds.
Apart from the men; the women too have taken a centre stage. Apart from working at home, they help the men in backyard activities like watering the seedlings, soil filling of pots and sowing of seeds.
Jameela Begum, a housewife says that while her husband and two sons are busy dealing with customers in selling and transporting the stuff, she along with her college going daughter spend ample time in taking care of the plants and vases in nursery developed in a backyard of their house on the outskirts of Srinagar.
For last three years, there has been a significant increase in the number of women taking to nursery business. Government records reveal surge in number of women entering the field.
According to Assistant Floriculture Officer, Incharge Commercial Floriculture Srinagar, there are more than 300 nurseries registered with the department. “In past few years, we have issued scores of licenses to new entrepreneurs including a good number of women. Besides hand holding these units, the department is providing every possible help to these agripreneurs in terms of poly-houses, subsidized seeds and skill empowerment.”
He says that the sector is still untapped as there is a tremendous scope for nursery business in the region. “Keeping in view the conducive environment the regions is bestowed with and the requirement of small land holding for establishing the nurseries, the nursery business provides ample opportunity to unemployed youth in terms of revenue and employment,” opines the officer.
Experts believe that the spurt in nursery business in the valley has its roots in the Covid pandemic three years ago; a blessing in disguise!
During subsequent lockdowns, people spent a considerable time in developing the landscape around. “From open lawns, vertical gardens to hanging pots and flower vases, development of landscape around home for aesthetic and mental hygiene has gained momentum in both urban and rural Kashmir,” says Dr Ali Mohammad Rather, a prominent sociologist from Srinagar.
Physician Dr Saba Mir from central Kashmir’s Budgam echoes similar views: “Earlier I seldom got time to modify the back lawn of my house. But during lockdown period, I along with my husband developed it into an adorable patch of land. I have adored it with many varieties of ornamental plants like maple, Germenia and black roses too.”
As more and more people invest their time in the aesthetic act, the nursery growers eye good returns for their hard work and blooming business.
Handwara & Baramulla, April 23: Acting tough against social crimes, Police have arrested 08 gamblers in Handwara & Baramulla and seized stake money from their possession. In Handwara, a Police party of Police Post Langate while on patrolling near Shanoo area of Langate apprehended 04 gamblers. The have been identified as Fayaz Ahmad Bhat son of Ghulam Rasool Bhat resident of Goripora Dardpora Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Chopan son of Gh Mohammad resident of Bumai Sopore, Showkat Ahmad Khan son of Ab Majeed Khan resident of New Colony Sopore and Ishfaq Altaf son of Altaf Hussain Shah resident of Hamam Sopore. Police have seized stake money of ₹19,380/- and playing cards from the gamblers. They have been shifted to police station where they remain in custody. In Baramulla, acting on specific information about gambling activities in Par Mohalla Pattan, a police party of Police Station Pattan raided the specific site and arrested 04 gamblers on the spot. They have been identified as Sajid Ahmad Najar son of Ali Mohammad & Showkat Ahmad Waza son of Gh Nabi both residents of Pattan, Mohammad Shaban Gojri son of Sonaullah Gojri resident of Iqbal Colony Pattan, and Fayaz Ahmad Najar son of Ab Rahim Najar resident of Cham Mohalla Pattan. Police have seized stake money of ₹13,140/- and playing cards from the gamblers. They have been shifted to police station where they remain in custody. Accordingly, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered in respective police stations and investigations have been initiated. People found indulging in criminal activities shall be dealt as per law. Community members are requested to share information regarding the crimes in their neighbourhood with the local police units. Photograph is attached.
“The values of gratitude, compassion, and mindfulness are not just for Eid Ul Fitr but should be practiced throughout the year, as we work towards a more just and equitable world for all.” As Eid Ul Fitr approaches, it is crucial to reflect on the teachings of the Quran regarding moderation, gratitude, and compassion. This special festival reminds us of the importance of coming together as a community and extending a helping hand to those in need. In a world where extravagance and wastefulness are often praised, it is essential to remember that Allah has strictly forbidden spending in vain. As we celebrate Eid Ul Fitr, let us practice mindfulness and moderation in our spending habits, ensuring that we do not fall into the trap of excess. Furthermore, as we enjoy the blessings of this holiday, let us remember those who are less fortunate and extend a helping hand to them. Whether it is through donating to charity organizations or volunteering at local shelters, there are many ways to make a positive impact on the lives of others. At the heart of Eid Ul Fitr is the spirit of gratitude and appreciation for the blessings in our lives. By cultivating a deeper sense of gratitude, we can not only honor the true meaning and spirit of this special holiday but also contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious society. Finally, let us also ensure that we conduct our shopping and purchasing of essential commodities at government-approved rates and with sufficient quality standards. This will not only benefit us as consumers but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole. In addition to practicing moderation and mindfulness during Eid Ul Fitr, it is also crucial to ensure that the prices of essential commodities remain within reasonable limits throughout the year. This can be achieved through the efforts of government departments such as the Food Control and Standards (FCS) and Consumer Affairs (CA), which can monitor and regulate the prices of goods in the market. By regularly checking market rates, these departments can ensure that consumers are not exploited by unscrupulous traders who may take advantage of special occasions to inflate prices. Therefore, it is essential that the FCS and CA carry out their duties effectively and efficiently, not just during special occasions but throughout the year, to ensure that the rights of consumers are protected, and the market remains fair and equitable for all. Bottom Line: As we prepare for Eid Ul Fitr, let us reflect on the teachings of the Quran and strive to embody the values of moderation, compassion, and gratitude. By doing so, we can contribute to a more just and compassionate world, one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and live fulfilling lives. “As we celebrate Eid Ul Fitr, let us remember that our actions have the power to make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious society”
(The author holds the following positions: •Educational Columnist •Motivational Speaker •Associate Editor of the weekly ‘Education Quill’ •Senior EDP Head at DD Target PMT in Kashmir, which is a reputed institute for medical/JEE/Foundation Coaching Classes. Insta id UBI9305. Can be mailed at akhoon.aubaid@gmail.com)
The views expressed in the article are of the author and do not, in anyway, reflect the opinion of the Valley Observer
Surplus in Milk production, Upgradation of Health Services, Education among the parameters achieved under Aspirational District Programme
BARAMULLA, APRIL 21: In a significant development, Baramulla district has once again achieved a milestone as Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar today received coveted Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration-2022, India’s highest award in civil services.
The award was given to the DC by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi in an award ceremony function held to felicitate the civil servants for their Excellence in Public Administration for the year 2022.
It is worth here to mention that Dr Sehrish has been selected for this prestigious achievement in the category of Aspirational Districts programme as she has brought transformative changes in the identified parameters envisaged in the said programme.
As per reports, establishment of Birth Waiting Wards in Primary Health Centres, Community Health Centres, Upgradation of diagnostic services at all delivery points and Poshan Tracker Tabs for all Anganwadi workers are among the parameters achieved under Aspirational District Programme.
The DC supported farmers through mechanisms, plant protection, nursery strengthening, robust rootstocks, quality planning material etc. and organized a marketing facility established at Sopore which is the second largest Fruit Mandi in Asia.
The district has achieved 100% Saturation in milk production and now is milk surplus district. Severe Acute Malnutrition has been reduced in the district to 0.01 percent from 3 percent and Moderate Acute Malnutrition to 0.039 percent from 11.93 percent. A two-year paramedical diploma course has been introduced for 300 border area students to fill up the critical gap in the health sector.
Under financial inclusion, 56,215 PM Jan Dhan Yojana accounts have been opened in the Baramulla district.
Speaking with regard to this achievement, Dr Sehrish has extended her warm appreciations to the whole team of all concerned departments and other concerned functionaries and said that such recognitions at the national level boosts the spirit of enthusiasm and zeal among the government departments and officials.
SRINAGAR, APRIL 21: The Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri today inaugurated a four month long Exhibition at Kashmir Haat Srinagar.
The Exhibition will bring a diverse range of activates including Magic Shows, amusement activates, handicraft and Handloom products and food courts and much more.
The Event has been purposely started on the eve of Eid so as to attract a maximum footfall especially the Gaming zones that have been set for children.
The bid for the current season has been won by the SHARMA BROTHERS for a record amount, and It is for the first time that revenue of such extent has been generated from the Haat area.
The Div Com emphasized that such type of activates should be replicated at other spots in the Srinagar city.
Director Handicrafts & Handloom Kashmir Mahmood Ahmad Shah gave a detailed brief about the activates the Department is planning to organize in the coming months at the Kashmir Haat area.
