Srinagar, Jan 15: The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Protection, Jammu and Kashmir organised a day-long orientation programme in Shopian to kick-start preparations for the Markhor Census 2025–26.
The orientation was held in the backdrop of a steady decline in the population of the Kashmir or Pir Panjal markhor (Capra falconeri), the world’s largest wild goat and a near-threatened species.
In India, the flare-horned subspecies is found exclusively in Jammu and Kashmir, where its population has declined by nearly 60 percent compared to 1947 levels due to factors such as livestock grazing, infrastructure development, habitat fragmentation, and increased poaching during prolonged periods of political instability.
WTI has been engaged in markhor conservation since 2004 in close collaboration with the Wildlife Protection Department, J&K, with support from the Astral Foundation.
Regular population monitoring and censuses have been conducted every two to three years in key protected areas.
The 2023 census recorded 221 markhor individuals in Kazinag National Park, while sightings in Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary remained minimal.
"As part of the upcoming census exercise, population estimation surveys will be carried out in Kazinag National Park, Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary and Tatakutti Wildlife Sanctuary to assess the current status of the species across its remaining habitats in the Kashmir Himalaya," the handout reads.
The orientation programme was chaired by the Wildlife Warden, Shopian, and training was imparted by Dr Tanushree Srivastava, Manager and Head, J&K, WTI, along with Muneeb Nazir, Field Officer, WTI.
The session focused on survey objectives, standardized field methodology, data recording procedures, and roles and responsibilities to ensure accuracy and uniformity during the census.
Around 60 participants, including frontline wildlife staff, markhor watchers, volunteers and representatives of various organisations, attended the programme.
Officials said the exercise would provide critical data on the current markhor population and help in planning long-term conservation measures for the species at a landscape level in the Union Territory.
"We expect the results of this census to enable us to generate information on the current status of the Markhor population in J&K UT and to plan and implement conservation measures for this charismatic species in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Protection, J&K, for future long-term initiatives and efforts to be taken toward the conservation of Markhor at a landscape level," the handout reads.
Srinagar, Jan 8: Contractual faculty members working in government degree colleges of Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department (HED) have expressed strong resentment over what they term as a glaring disparity in salaries, demanding revision of their pay in line with University Grants Commission (UGC) norms and regularisation of their services. The faculty, many of whom hold PhDs and are qualified through NET, SET and JRF, said they have been denied UGC-recommended pay scales despite discharging academic responsibilities equivalent to their regular counterparts. “Hundreds of highly qualified scholars have been pushed into silent suffering. For years, we have been assured that our pay revision is under consideration, but nothing has materialised so far,” said Dr Ishfaq Gowhar, a contractual faculty member. Earlier, Director Colleges J&K had acknowledged the legitimacy of the faculty’s demand, stating that while the issue was genuine, its implementation involved significant financial implications due to the large number of contractual appointments. “We are aware that they deserve salary enhancement, but the number of contractual faculty is huge and it has financial implications,” he earlier said. Dr Gowhar pointed out that contractual lecturers, who form the backbone of the higher education system, continue to work on a fixed monthly honorarium of Rs 28,000, which has remained unchanged for nearly a decade. “The irony is that a Class IV employee with a Class 10 qualification draws a salary exceeding Rs 50,000, while doctorate-holding teachers engaged in teaching, mentoring and academic research are paid a fraction of that,” he said. He added that institutions such as SKUAST-K, University of Kashmir and Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) have implemented revised UGC pay scales, but the Higher Education Department has failed to extend similar treatment to its contractual faculty. Dr Gowhar said the demand for “equal work, equal pay” gets prominently featured in election campaigns, raising hopes among contractual teachers. “Promises were made and slogans echoed during elections, but once the process ended, our voices were reduced to silence. Even meeting officials now feels impossible,” he said. He said contractual faculty were not seeking privileges but dignity, fairness and recognition for their service. The faculty appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Education Minister to intervene and take concrete steps towards addressing their long-pending demands. “This issue is not merely about salaries. It is about survival, justice and dignity in the classrooms of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Jammu, Jan 18: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology, ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma Sunday said that the remarkable achievements of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth are a powerful testament to what can be accomplished through fair opportunities, modern infrastructure and unwavering government support. Addressing the gathering during the SRIJAN initiative conference, the Minister stated that the success of young athletes clearly demonstrates that with the right ecosystem in place, the UT youth are capable of overcoming every challenge and competing confidently at national and international platforms. Highlighting the core focus areas of the SRIJAN programme, Satish Sharma said "the initiative is playing a transformative role in strengthening the sports landscape of the Union Territory by expanding grassroots sports infrastructure across Jammu, Kashmir and other regions. This is being done by ensuring transparent, merit-based selections free from any bias; integrating sports with education and skill development; promoting greater participation of girls and enhancing inclusivity and establishing sports as a dignified and sustainable career option with viable livelihood opportunities, he said0. He reaffirmed the government’s firm commitment and said that sustained efforts were underway to create international-standard sports facilities, including modern cricket stadiums in Jammu and Srinagar. He also highlighted the strengthening of Khelo India Centres, promotion of traditional sports such as Dangal and enhanced collaboration with the Union Ministry to transform Jammu & Kashmir into a national sports hub. “As Sports Minister, I assure our athletes that the government stands firmly with them. Our focus is not only on infrastructure creation but also on nurturing talent, discipline and confidence among the youth,” he said. The Minister lauded the determination, resilience and dedication of young sportspersons, describing them as the living legacy of the SRIJAN mission. He urged them to continue training with passion, remain disciplined and dream fearlessly, assuring them of full institutional support at every step of their journey. Satish Sharma expressed hope that the conference would serve as the foundation of a new era where every talented child, from the mountains of Kashmir to the plains of Jammu, is provided an equal opportunity to shine on the global stage. He concluded by reiterating the government’s resolve to make sports a powerful vehicle for youth empowerment, social inclusion and regional pride in Jammu and Kashmir. Director General, Youth Services and Sports, Anuradha Gupta and prominent persons from different fields and states along with senior officers of the Youth Services and Sports Department, were also present on the occasion.
Srinagar, Jan 12: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) will declare the result of class 10th and 12th examination on January 14 of, 2026 (Wednesday), minister for education Sakina Itoo said on Monday. Minister for education Sakina Itoo said the government has decided to declare the result of both the classes-10th and 12th on the same day. "We understand that students have been waiting for the results. So we decided that result of both the classes will be declared on Wednesday (January 16 of 2926)," Sakina Itoo said. She said the meeting of the Result Declaration Committee (RDC) will be convened by the Secretary JKBOE along with the members-Director School Education (DSE) Kashmir and Jammu division besides the joint secretaries as well. "We will give the administrative approval to the result instead of getting approved by the chairman," she said. The announcement comes amid the delay in appointment of chairman JKBOSE as the position is lying vacant for the last one year. "After declaration of the results, we will also appoint the permanent chairman for JKBOSE as well," education minister said. An official from JKBOSE said the class 1oth result will be declared on Wednesday morning followed by the declaration of result of class 12th students in late afternoon on the same day. As per the official figures, 94783 students- 68804 from Kashmir and 25,224 students from winter zone areas of Jammu division besides 660 students from Kargil and 95 from Leh district registered for the class 10th JKBOSE examination this year. Also, the examination for class 11th and 12th students was scheduled from November 19 and November 8 of 2025 respectively. Approximately, 81622 students – 64001 from Jammu and 17621 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 11th examination while 70117 students—56423 from Kashmir and 13694 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 12th examination.
Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district is proving that dedication and ambition can propel one to global heights. Munaf-ul-Raquib who holds a B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, has gained international recognition for his research on black holes and cosmology. Munaf-ul-Raquib revealed that his paper on the thermodynamics of black holes was recently published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR). “About a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,” he said. He said that since his research was published in the international journal, he has been receiving opportunities from various countries to participate in research dialogues. Raquib added that in the coming months he is scheduled to participate in international conferences in Paris on April 16 and later in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Sopore aerospace engineer noted that he is also participating in various conferences across different countries. Speaking about his research, Munaf-ul-Raquib addressed a fundamental paradox in astrophysics: how black holes can appear to violate thermodynamic laws, particularly concerning entropy.“If we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,” he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeeb’s research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. “In this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,” he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. “It is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,” he said. Raqeeb shared that Astrophysics was his childhood dream, and his grandfather encouraged me immensely. "After my grandfather passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic, my parents continued to champion my aspirations. My parents left no stone unturned in helping me pursue my dreams,” he said. He said that his academic path included taking the JEE and later the AME CET entrance exams, through which he secured a seat in aerospace engineering at the Nasik Research Centre. “My parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,” he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. “Just as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.” “Young people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,” he further added.
Calls for strong academic ecosystem Srinagar, March 6: President of the Private Schools Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK), Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam Friday extended his heartfelt congratulations to the 17 candidates from J&K and Ladakh who successfully cleared the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS) examination. He termed the achievement as a moment of immense pride for the region and a powerful inspiration for the youth. He said that success of these candidates reflect the immense talent, determination, and intellectual potential present among the students of the region. Nazrul Islam Baba emphasised that educational institutions must work collectively to create a robust academic ecosystem that encourages students to aspire for and excel in national-level competitive examinations like the IAS. He stressed that schools should nurture curiosity, discipline, analytical thinking, and leadership qualities from the early stages of education. “Such remarkable achievements demonstrate that our youth possess the capability to compete at the highest national platforms," he said. He said a supportive academic environment, mentorship, and access to quality resources need to be kept available so that more students from J&K and Ladakh can prepare for and succeed in prestigious examinations. PSAJK President further highlighted the need to develop benchmark institutions and academic support systems in the region that can guide and mentor students aspiring for civil services and other competitive examinations. "Creating a culture of excellence and competition within educational institutions will help channelize the talent of the youth towards nation-building roles," he said. He urged educators, parents, and policymakers to work in synergy to foster an environment where students feel motivated to pursue ambitious goals and contribute meaningfully to society. “Every success story from our region becomes a beacon of hope for thousands of young minds. These achievers have shown that with perseverance, dedication, and proper guidance, no dream is beyond reach. Their journey should inspire our students to believe in their abilities and strive for excellence,” he added. PSAJK expressed hope that this achievement will ignite a new wave of aspiration among students across schools in J&K and Ladakh, motivating them to prepare for the country’s most competitive examinations and play a vital role in shaping the future of the nation.
Stresses govt alone cannot fix this, commends LG for personally committing for Drug-Free Kashmir Srinagar, April 17: Handwara rose with a single voice on Friday as the Drug-Free India (Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan) campaign transformed into a powerful public assertion against the growing menace of addiction. Scores converged at T-Junction Kargam, and what began as a march soon turned into a moving wave of resistance, flowing through Hospital Road, Main Chowk, and culminating at Degree College with one unambiguous message: Say No to Drugs. At the center of this groundswell stood Jammu & Kashmir Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara, Sajad Gani Lone, who elevated the campaign beyond a routine government program into a deeply personal and societal reckoning. His words cut through rhetoric, rooted not in abstraction but in lived realities that many in the crowd could recognize, if not openly admit. Lone painted a stark and painful picture of addiction, not as an individual failing but as a collective tragedy that engulfs entire families. He spoke of homes collapsing under the weight of despair, of parents abandoning livelihoods to chase hope in distant rehabilitation centers and of the unbearable grief of burying their own children. “A child who gets addicted to drugs becomes a curse for that entire family,” he said, his voice carrying both anguish and urgency. “It consumes that family and ruins lives.” Stripping the issue of any embellishment, he posed a piercing question to the gathering, "What kind of life is it to live enslaved to drugs, to a syringe? What dignity remains in such an existence?" The silence that followed was as telling as the applause that preceded it. Moving from the gravity of the crisis to the path forward, Lone made it clear that this battle cannot be outsourced to the state alone. He called for a societal awakening while placing responsibility on every layer of the community including mosques, schools, mohalla committees and families. In a direct appeal to religious leaders, he urged that every Friday sermon reinforce a clear, uncompromising message that drug abuse is completely haram, with no moral ambiguity. On the systemic front, he drew from his administrative experience to highlight critical gaps, particularly the absence of adequate rehabilitation infrastructure. Stressing the urgency, he called for at least one fully functional rehabilitation center in every district, backed by trained counselors who can address not just the addiction, but the psychological scars that accompany it. While acknowledging the broader governmental push, he credited the Lieutenant Governor for his personal involvement and commitment to safeguarding the youth of Kashmir. The moment reached its peak not in words, but in collective resolve. Lone turned to the crowd and ignited a chant—“Say No To Drugs!”—each echo growing louder, more defiant, until it reverberated across the grounds.
Budgam, Apr 11: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam Athar Aamir Khan along with SSP Budgam Hariprasad KK Saturday chaired a comprehensive meeting at the Conference Hall, DC Office Budgam to review the preparedness and finalize the roadmap for the upcoming 100 days intensive campaign under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA). At the outset, the DC took a detailed review of departmental preparedness and directed all concerned officers to present a clear, time-bound and result-oriented action plan for the successful implementation of the campaign across the district. Emphasising the seriousness of the issue, the DC underscored the need for a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to eliminate the menace of drug abuse. He directed all departments to work in close coordination and ensure that the campaign reaches every village, school, and community. The DC issued a series of directions, including launching mass awareness drives at Panchayat, school, and college levels with active involvement of youth, teachers, and community leaders. The officers were directed to ensure identification, counselling, and rehabilitation of drug-affected individuals in coordination with Health and Social Welfare departments, strengthening village-level vigilance committees besides engaging PRIs to monitor and report drug-related activities. The officers were instructed to conduct special outreach programmes targeting vulnerable groups, particularly youth, to steer them away from substance abuse, Intensifying IEC (Information, Education & Communication) activities through print, electronic, and social media for maximum outreach. Directions were issued for ensuring regular monitoring and review of progress at all levels, with measurable outcomes, integrating environmental and social initiatives like plantation drives and sports activities to promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. The DC further stressed that zero tolerance must be adopted against drug peddling, while simultaneously ensuring compassion and support for victims through proper rehabilitation mechanisms. He called for innovative interventions and urged officers to adopt a proactive and mission-mode approach. SSP Budgam, also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the role of strict enforcement in curbing substance abuse. He emphasised on Strict implementation of COTPA (Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act) provisions, conducting regular inspections and penalizing vendors selling cigarettes and tobacco products in the vicinity of schools and educational institutions, strengthening enforcement and surveillance to dismantle supply chains of drugs and tobacco products. The SSP reiterated the commitment of the police department to work in close synergy with civil administration to ensure a drug-free Budgam. The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Budgam, Programme Officer ICDS, all Sub Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), Assistant Commissioner Panchayat (ACP), District Information Officer (DIO), District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), all Block Development Officers (BDOs), all Executive Officers (EOs), and other concerned officers.
Baramulla, Apr 1: Political leader Touseef Raina on Wednesday asked Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig to apologise for his remarks about women he made during a speech in the Legislative Assembly. Raina termed the remarks “regrettable” and “hurtful to public sentiment.” In a video message, Touseef Raina took strong exception to Baig’s reference to Peoples Conference leader Sajad Lone, wherein he described Lone’s stance as having a “womenistic attitude,” which he linked to “crying over everything.” Raina said a public representative having such ideology reflects a “demeaning mindset” towards women which was unacceptable in public discourse, especially within a legislative forum. “It is a matter of great shame and regret that an elected representative has used such words saying that women are prone to crying. These remarks have deeply hurt the sentiments of women,” he said. Raina emphasised the role and contribution of women in society saying that these days women stand as equal partners in all spheres of life. “Women are a source of inspiration. There is no place for gender inequality in today’s world. Our mothers and sisters contribute immensely whether at home or in workplaces and deserve respect, not ridicule,” he added. Referring to Islamic teachings, Raina reminded MLA about the high status accorded to women, stating that a person’s character is reflected in how he treats women, particularly within his family. He further questioned Baig’s commitment to women’s rights, saying such remarks raise concerns about the seriousness of leader who seek votes on promises of empowerment but resort to “insensitive language” in Assembly debates. He expressed his personal anguish over the issue and said he was felt “deeply hurt” by the comments made by MLA Baramulla. "MLA Baramulla should tender an unconditional apology to women. Such statements, even if made in haste, cannot be justified. An apology is necessary to address the hurt caused to women across society,” he said.
