Sopore,Sept,01: Highlighting the growing potential of honeybee products in healthcare, wellness and entrepreneurship, the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organized a one-day workshop-cum-training programme on “Recent Advances in Apitherapy & Apipuncture” at the Faculty of Agriculture, Wadoora.

The programme, organized by the Division of Entomology in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Science, Technology & Innovation Council (JKST&IC), brought together scientists, researchers, students, beekeepers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to explore the emerging therapeutic and commercial applications of honeybee products.

The workshop focused on the scientific potential and value addition of honey, bee pollen, propolis, royal jelly, beeswax, bee bread and bee venom, besides providing insights into recent developments in apitherapy and apipuncture, their possible applications, safety aspects and future research prospects.

The event was held under the chief guestship of Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Mir, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Wadoora Campus, who stressed the need to connect apiculture research with healthcare, wellness, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Prof. Mir highlighted the immense potential of bee-derived products and called for stronger coordination among researchers, beekeepers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to promote sustainable apiculture and develop innovative value-added products.

Prof. Md. Jamal Ahmad, Professor and Head, Division of Entomology, said the workshop was aimed at spreading scientific awareness about apitherapy and apipuncture while creating opportunities for skill development, technology transfer and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Shahnawaz Ahmad Dar, Assistant Professor and Training Coordinator, said the programme provided participants with scientific as well as practical exposure to hive products and their applications. He emphasized evidence-based approaches, safe handling of bee products, bee venom collection and utilization, value addition and emerging research opportunities.

He said Kashmir has significant potential for apiculture and value-added bee products, adding that capacity-building initiatives could open new avenues for beekeepers, students and young entrepreneurs.

At the conclusion of the programme, Dr. Uzma Arifie, Assistant Professor, Division of Entomology, delivered the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, scientists, researchers, students, beekeepers, entrepreneurs and members of the print and electronic media for their participation and support.

KREERI, Aug 30: The General Body of the Kruhen Cultural Forum Kreeri on Sunday approved an ambitious programme of literary and cultural activities, including a special Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) function, a felicitation ceremony and a book launch on September 14, besides deciding to dedicate one day every month to Kashmiri language and literature in collaboration with educational institutions.
The important meeting, held at the Forum’s headquarters under the chairmanship of President Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim, discussed in detail the organisation’s forthcoming programmes, administrative affairs, publication of its literary magazine Anhaar, members’ responsibilities and measures to further strengthen the Forum’s literary and cultural activities.
As per the decisions taken at the meeting, a special Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) programme will be held at Higher Secondary School Kreeri on September 14. On the occasion, noted journalist, writer and literary and social personality Dr Syed Jahangir Bukhari will be felicitated in recognition of his academic, literary, journalistic and social contributions, including his recent conferment with an honorary doctorate.
A book authored by veteran researcher, writer and poet Noor-ud-Din Hosh Waniagami will also be formally released during the programme.
In what the members described as an important initiative for safeguarding and promoting the Kashmiri language, the Forum decided to collaborate with schools in the area to organise a dedicated Kashmiri literary day every month. The proposed activities will include debates, speeches, literary competitions, examinations, reading sessions and other educational and creative programmes aimed at encouraging students to develop an interest in Kashmiri language, literature, culture and heritage.
The meeting also reviewed the status of Anhaar, the Forum’s literary magazine. Dr Bukhari informed the members that efforts were underway to ensure its publication at the earliest. Members expressed the hope that the magazine would provide a meaningful platform to local writers and poets and give further impetus to the Forum’s literary activities.
The General Body also expressed satisfaction over the renewed activities of the Forum following the constitution of its new body, noting that literary, cultural or organisational programmes were now being organised almost every month. Members said the revival was in keeping with the Forum’s founding objectives and expressed confidence in the present leadership and its future programme.
At the beginning of the meeting, members observed a moment of grief over the demise of the paternal uncle of Ghulam Hassan Abu Saleha, son of Habba Lala. The Forum expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, particularly Ghulam Hassan Abu Saleha, paid tribute to the deceased and prayed for eternal peace and forgiveness for the departed soul.

The General Body further decided that dates formally approved for future programmes and meetings would, as far as possible, be treated as final and would not subsequently be altered to accommodate individual schedules. The members stressed that organisational discipline required the Forum’s constitution and procedures to be applied uniformly, irrespective of a member’s age, position, academic standing or literary stature.
It was also decided that members would no longer be individually contacted by telephone as a routine before every programme or meeting. Instead, the Forum’s official page would serve as the principal platform for communicating information about its activities, while members were encouraged to use the same platform for suggestions, queries and feedback.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment to strengthening the Kruhen Cultural Forum Kreeri as a vibrant and respected literary and cultural institution and to pursuing sustained initiatives for the promotion of Kashmiri language, literature and cultural heritage.

Srinagar,Aug,29:SMRATA Trust, as part of its “Education for All” initiative, has announced long-term educational support for 76 deserving students from Jammu & Kashmir, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that financial hardship does not stand in the way of a child’s education and aspirations.

The students selected for the initiative come from economically and socially vulnerable backgrounds, including orphans, children from single-parent families, and students whose parents together earn less than ₹1 lakh annually.

Under this initiative, SMRATA Trust will support the students’ education fees through completion of their undergraduate education, giving them the opportunity to pursue their academic ambitions and build independent, successful futures.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Sarat Addanki, Chairman of SMRATA Trust, encouraged the students to look beyond their present circumstances and aspire to become future role models for Jammu & Kashmir.

“Your circumstances today should never define where you can reach tomorrow. Education gives you the power to change not only your own life, but also the lives of your family and your community. Our dream is to see each one of you become a role model for the next generation of children in J&K.”

Dr. Addanki, who hails from Hyderabad in South India, also emphasized the importance of national unity and the strong emotional connection between people across different regions of India.

“I have come here from South India with one simple message: you are our brothers and sisters, and we care about you as much as we care about our own communities in the South. We are all children of Bharat Maa. Geography may separate us, but our aspirations and our future are one.”

He expressed his vision for Jammu & Kashmir to emerge not only as a major destination for tourism, but also as a center for technology, artificial intelligence, education, entrepreneurship and sports.

“We want J&K to become another AI and technology hub of India. We want to see great scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, doctors and innovators emerge from this region. We also want to see outstanding sportsmen and sportswomen from J&K represent India on national and international platforms.”

Dr. Addanki urged the students to make the most of the opportunity by focusing on education, discipline, hard work, integrity and service to society. He encouraged every scholarship recipient to make a commitment that, after becoming successful, they would help at least one other deserving child receive an education.

The program was held in the presence of Chief Guest Shri Garib Dass IPS ADGP Ji, along with the Principals and representatives of the participating schools, teachers, students and other distinguished guests.

SMRATA Trust believes that education is one of the most powerful instruments for breaking the cycle of poverty. Through its educational initiatives, the Trust seeks to identify talented students who lack financial resources and provide them with the support required to continue their education and become self-reliant citizens.

The initiative in Jammu & Kashmir represents more than financial assistance. It is a commitment to the students that their dreams matter, their education matters, and the entire country stands with them as they build their future.

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 18: After years of waiting, residents of Rehmat Lane Colony, opposite Noora Hospital at HMT, have finally got a properly macadamised internal road, bringing much-needed relief to nearly 100 households and marking a significant improvement in the colony’s civic infrastructure.

The completion of the work has been widely welcomed by residents, who had long endured potholes, uneven surfaces, bumps and poor road conditions that made daily movement difficult, particularly for children, elderly people and emergency vehicles.

Residents have expressed their appreciation to the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), City Roads Division and the concerned field staff for taking up and completing the long-pending work. They specifically acknowledged the efforts of SMC Commissioner Fazlul Haseeb (IAS), Executive Engineer Munir Ahmad Nagoo, AEE Zahoor Ahmad Shah, JE Mudassir Ahmad and Senior Supervisor Imtiyaz Ahmad Wani for their coordination and supervision.

The residents also appreciated the support extended by local MLA Tariq Ahmad Karra and the concerned administration in facilitating the development work.

Pertinently, special appreciation was conveyed to Sharp Construction Company for executing the macadamisation work, which has given the colony a significantly improved appearance while making the road safer and more convenient for residents and visitors.

For a residential community that has grown to around 100 households, residents said the upgraded road was more than a cosmetic improvement, as it would facilitate smoother commuting, safer movement of schoolchildren and elderly residents and quicker access for emergency services.

“This is not merely a road improvement; it is a long-awaited change that has made everyday life easier for us,” residents said, expressing hope that similar attention would be given to other pending civic issues in the area.

Kupwara, July 26: In a significant outreach programme aimed at strengthening the farming community in the border areas, the top leadership of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, along with Dr Parvender Sheoran, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Ludhiana, and Director Extension Prof Raihana Habib Kanth, visited the Zero Line in Keran sector of Kupwara district on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

The programme was organised under the supervision and guidance of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai and Director Extension, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, with the efforts of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara. The delegation included scientists and non-scientific staff of KVK Kupwara, who travelled to one of the country's last border villages to interact directly with the farming community.

During the visit, the SKUAST-K and ICAR team inspected agricultural fields, interacted with local farmers, and discussed various modern farming practices to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen the rural economy. The experts encouraged farmers to adopt scientific and sustainable agricultural techniques for enhancing their income and ensuring long-term agricultural development.

As part of the outreach programme, the team distributed essential agricultural tools and equipment among farmers to support their farming activities and improve productivity in the remote border region.

Addressing the gathering, the visiting dignitaries stressed the importance of empowering border farmers and strengthening the country's internal economy through sustainable agriculture, technological interventions, and continuous scientific support. They reaffirmed SKUAST-K's commitment to ensuring that farmers living in remote and border areas receive equal access to agricultural innovations and extension services.

On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the SKUAST-K delegation also participated in a commemorative programme organised by the Indian Army in Keran. The Vice-Chancellor, Director ICAR-ATARI, Director Extension, scientists, and other officials paid rich tributes to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the nation during the Kargil War. Floral tributes were offered to honour the supreme sacrifice of the martyrs, while the gathering remembered their courage, patriotism, and dedication.

The delegation appreciated the invaluable role played by the Indian Army in safeguarding the nation's borders and acknowledged its continuous support towards the welfare and socio-economic development of border communities, particularly in facilitating agricultural and developmental initiatives.

Residents expressed gratitude to SKUAST-K for reaching the remote border village with scientific knowledge and practical support. They particularly appreciated the sustained efforts of KVK Kupwara, which, according to the locals, has been consistently working in the Keran region for nearly a decade by organising awareness programmes, training sessions, demonstrations, and farmer outreach activities for the overall development of the farming community.

The programme concluded with a renewed commitment from SKUAST-K and its extension wing to continue strengthening farmer-scientist linkages in border areas and to promote inclusive agricultural growth while honouring the spirit of national service and sacrifice symbolised by Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Kupwara, July 25: Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening agricultural research, innovation and farmer-centric extension services, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) convened the 20th Annual Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) Meeting of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara on Saturday.

The meeting was chaired by the Hon'ble Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie, who also serves as Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Committee. It witnessed the participation of senior university officials, scientists, district officers, and progressive farmers from across Kupwara district.

Among the prominent dignitaries present were Director Extension, SKUAST-K, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, who attended as the Guest of Honour, and Director, ICAR-ATARI, Ludhiana, Dr. Parvender Sheoran, whose visit to KVK Kupwara marked his first official interaction with the institution. Heads of various KVKs, officers from line departments, scientists from the Directorate of Extension, KVK Kupwara staff, and progressive farmers also attended the meeting.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Prof. G.M. Bhat, Head of KVK Kupwara, followed by a comprehensive presentation on the Action Taken Report, highlighting the centre's achievements during the past year, implementation of previous SAC recommendations, priority areas for intervention, and future strategies aimed at addressing emerging challenges in the agriculture and allied sectors.

An interactive session was held with representatives of various line departments and progressive farmers, who shared their experiences, challenges, and suggestions. The discussions focused on ensuring that field-level realities are effectively incorporated into future research, extension programmes, and policy planning for the district.

Recognising excellence in agriculture, several progressive farmers were felicitated with appreciation certificates by Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie for their outstanding contributions towards the adoption of scientific farming practices and innovation. The initiative was aimed at encouraging farmers to continue serving as role models within the farming community.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth appreciated the efforts of KVK Kupwara in introducing improved crop varieties, expanding farmer outreach programmes, and promoting entrepreneurship among rural youth. She underlined the need for stronger collaboration between scientists, farmers, and government departments to ensure sustainable agricultural development.

In his keynote address, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie commended the dedication and performance of the KVK Kupwara team and urged the scientists to embrace innovation, strengthen technology transfer, and explore new opportunities to transform KVK Kupwara into one of the finest Krishi Vigyan Kendras not only in Jammu and Kashmir but across the country.

Dr. Parvender Sheoran, Director, ICAR-ATARI Ludhiana, appreciated the centre's extension activities and stressed the importance of accelerating technology dissemination, promoting location-specific agricultural innovations, and strengthening farmer-centric interventions to enhance the effectiveness of the National Agricultural Research and Extension System.

The meeting concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Firdous Ahmad Raina, who expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor, Director Extension, Director ICAR-ATARI, scientists, officers of line departments, progressive farmers, and KVK staff for their valuable participation. He also acknowledged the support extended by the District Administration Kupwara and appreciated the media fraternity for consistently highlighting agricultural initiatives, promoting scientific awareness, and bridging the gap between researchers and the farming community.

The successful conduct of the 20th Scientific Advisory Committee Meeting reaffirmed SKUAST-K's commitment to developing resilient, technology-driven and farmer-oriented agricultural systems, while strengthening collaboration among research institutions, extension agencies and farming communities for sustainable rural development.

Baramulla,Jul,20: Reinforcing its commitment to sustainable horticulture and scientific farming, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organised an awareness programme on the scientific management of the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner at the Community Hall, Watergam, in Baramulla district. Sponsored by SKUAST-K, the programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of apple growers, horticulture officials, scientists and research scholars.

The programme was inaugurated by Prof. Mohammad Jamal Ahmad, Coordinator and Head of the Division of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-K, who attended as the chief guest. Among those present were Dr. Ishtiyaq Ahad, Dr. Uzma Arifie, HDO Shakir, scientists, research scholars and other employees of the Department of Horticulture.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Mohammad Jamal Ahmad stressed that timely scientific intervention is essential to protect apple orchards from emerging pest challenges. He said that the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner has become a significant concern for apple growers, making awareness, early detection and scientific management indispensable for sustaining quality production and improving orchard profitability.

Experts from the Division of Entomology delivered detailed technical sessions on the identification, biology and economic significance of the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner. They explained that integrated pest management (IPM) remains the most effective strategy for controlling the pest while safeguarding environmental and human health.

Prof Ishtiyaq Ahad educated orchardists on the use of pheromone traps for pest monitoring, the need for judicious and need-based application of recommended insecticides, proper spray scheduling and post-harvest orchard management practices. They emphasised that excessive and indiscriminate pesticide use not only increases production costs but also affects ecological balance and fruit quality.

A practical demonstration on the installation and use of pheromone traps was conducted, enabling farmers to gain hands-on knowledge of pest monitoring techniques. The interactive session allowed participants to seek expert guidance on pest-related issues affecting their orchards and receive scientific recommendations tailored to local conditions.

The participating farmers appreciated the initiative and described the programme as highly informative and beneficial. They urged FoA, SKUAST-K to organise similar awareness and capacity-building programmes regularly to keep growers updated on modern technologies, emerging pests and sustainable orchard management practices.

In his concluding remarks, Prof. Mohammad Jamal Ahmad and Dr Uzma Arifie thanked the farmers for their active participation and reaffirmed SKUAST-K's commitment to extending scientific knowledge to farming communities through research-based outreach programmes. He assured growers that the university would continue to provide technical support and advisory services to help improve apple productivity and ensure sustainable horticultural development across Kashmir.

The awareness programme once again highlighted SKUAST-K's proactive role in bridging the gap between scientific research and farming communities, empowering orchardists with practical knowledge to effectively tackle pest challenges while promoting environmentally responsible and economically viable apple cultivation.

KREERI, July 19: In a remarkable celebration of Kashmir's literary heritage and the eternal ideals of Imam Hussain (AS), the Kruhen Cultural Forum, in collaboration with Jahanayia Polyclinic, Kreeri Muradabad, organized a grand Hussaini Mehfil-e-Mushaira on Saturday, attracting eminent poets, scholars, intellectuals and literature enthusiasts from different parts of the Kashmir Valley.

The event served as a tribute to the unparalleled sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and highlighted the enduring relevance of his message of truth, justice, courage, sacrifice and resistance against tyranny. The literary gathering reflected the deep cultural and spiritual bond between Kashmir's poetic traditions and the timeless values of Karbala.

The programme commenced with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by a scholarly presentation on the life, teachings and everlasting message of Imam Hussain (AS) by noted scholar Manzoor Ahmad Hajam. His address underscored the universal significance of the Karbala movement and its continuing inspiration for humanity in the pursuit of justice and righteousness.

The prestigious Mushaira was presided over by renowned poet Syed Sad-ud-Din Saidi, while distinguished poet Noor-ud-Din Hosh and Shabnum Tilgami, General Secretary of Adbi Markaz Kamraz, graced the presidium as guests of honour. The dignitaries praised the Kruhen Cultural Forum for its unwavering commitment to nurturing literary activities and preserving the rich cultural and intellectual traditions of Kashmir.

The proceedings of the Mushaira were conducted by the Forum's General Secretary, Syed Sharief Hussain Qadri, who skillfully anchored the event, introducing the participating poets and maintaining the literary spirit of the evening.

Delivering the keynote address, Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim, President of the Kruhen Cultural Forum, said that the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) continues to inspire humanity across generations by promoting the values of truth, justice, compassion, moral courage and human dignity. He observed that Hussaini Mushairas are not merely literary gatherings but important social and cultural platforms that educate society about the ideals of Karbala while strengthening communal harmony, ethical values and respect for humanity.

He further emphasized that literature has always played a significant role in shaping societies and preserving civilizational values. Such literary events, he said, encourage young writers and poets to remain connected with their cultural roots while promoting the message of peace, tolerance and brotherhood.

The Mushaira witnessed the participation of poets from various districts of Kashmir, who presented moving poetic tributes in honour of Imam Hussain (AS). Their verses eloquently portrayed the supreme sacrifice of Karbala and celebrated the enduring ideals of faith, steadfastness and resistance against oppression. The audience responded with great admiration, frequently applauding the powerful recitations that created an atmosphere of reverence, devotion and literary excellence.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the organizers, who expressed gratitude to all the poets, scholars, distinguished guests and members of the public for their enthusiastic participation and support. They reiterated the Kruhen Cultural Forum's resolve to continue organizing literary and cultural programmes that promote the rich intellectual, poetic and cultural legacy of Kashmir while keeping alive the universal message of Imam Hussain (AS).

Issued by:

Jahangir Bukhari

Media Secretary

Kruhen Cultural Forum, Kreeri

Handwara,Jun,23: In a significant step towards promoting sustainable horticulture and strengthening scientific pest management practices among orchardists, an awareness programme on the management of Apple Leaf Blotch Miner (ALBM) was organised at Sheikh-ul-Alam Environment Hall, Handwara, in north Kashmir's Kupwara district.

The programme was organised by the Division of Entomology, Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-Kashmir, in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Kupwara, under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) projects “Minimizing Pesticides” and “Organic Farming.”

Around 150 apple growers from different horticultural zones of Kupwara district participated in the programme, reflecting the increasing concern among farmers regarding emerging pest threats and the need for scientific interventions.

The event was attended by Professor-cum-Chief Scientist and Programme Coordinator Dr. Sajad Mohiuddin Mir, District Horticulture Officer Kupwara Iftikhar Ahmad, Prof. Tariq H. Askarey, Dr. Mudasir Gani, Dr. Faisal Ahmad Bhat from KVK Kupwara, Dr. Khursheed Habib, Horticulture Development Officers, field functionaries and other officials.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sajad Mohiuddin Mir delivered a detailed presentation on Apple Leaf Blotch Miner, highlighting its identification, biology, seasonal occurrence, nature of damage and economic significance. He emphasised the importance of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, including orchard sanitation, conservation of natural enemies, regular monitoring, pheromone-based technologies and the need-based use of registered insecticides.He stressed that timely intervention is crucial to minimise crop losses and protect the livelihoods of apple growers.

Dr. Mudasir Gani demonstrated various technologies for early detection and effective management of the pest. Practical demonstrations on the installation and use of pheromone traps were conducted, providing farmers with hands-on experience in pest monitoring and control.

Speaking on the occasion, DHO Kupwara Iftikhar Ahmad, Dr Khursheed Habib and HDO Suhail Ahmad highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts between scientists, extension workers and farmers for effective pest management and improved orchard productivity.

As part of the awareness initiative, technical pamphlets, extension literature and pheromone traps were distributed among the participating farmers to encourage scientific monitoring and sustainable pest management practices.

The participating growers appreciated the initiative and called for more such awareness and capacity-building programmes in the future.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Horticulture Development Officer Suhail Ahmad, who expressed gratitude to all scientists, officials, apple growers and stakeholders for their active participation and support.

The event underscored SKUAST-Kashmir's commitment to promoting sustainable horticulture and strengthening the linkage between scientific research and farming communities across Kashmir.

Baramulla,Jun,19: In an effort to strengthen scientific pest management practices among orchardists, an awareness programme on the management of Apple Leaf Blotch Miner was organised at Tujjar Sharief in north Kashmir's Baramulla district. The programme was sponsored by SKUAST-K and held at the Community Hall in the village, drawing the participation of a large number of apple growers from the area.

Dean Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Mir, attended the event as the chief guest, while Prof. Mohammad Jamal Ahmad, Head of the Division of Entomology, was the guest of honour. District Horticulture Officer Jagjeet Singh, scientists, research scholars and officials from the Department of Horticulture were also present.

During the programme, experts from the Division of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Kashmir, educated farmers about the identification, importance and effective management of the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner, a pest that poses a serious threat to apple production.

The experts highlighted the importance of integrated pest management practices, including the use of pheromone traps, safe and judicious application of insecticides, proper timing of spray schedules and post-harvest management techniques to reduce the risks associated with excessive pesticide use.

Practical demonstrations on the installation and use of pheromone traps were also conducted to provide farmers with hands-on experience in pest monitoring and control.

The participating farmers appreciated the initiative and urged the university to organise more such awareness programmes to enhance their knowledge and improve orchard productivity.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Mohammad Jamal Ahmad thanked the farmers for their active participation and assured them of continued scientific support and guidance for effective management of apple pests in the future.

The programme underscored SKUAST-K's commitment to promoting sustainable horticulture and strengthening the connection between scientific research and farming communities across Kashmir.

Baramulla,Jun,18: In a remarkable display of India’s rich cultural diversity, Shaam-e-Shafqat 2026, a vibrant cultural festival, was held at Zorawar Hall, Pattan, bringing together the colourful traditions and artistic expressions from different parts of the country.

Jointly organised by the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Indian Army, the one-day festival served as a tribute to national unity and a celebration of India’s enduring cultural heritage.

The event featured renowned artists from Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Assam, Rajasthan and Kashmir, who enthralled the audience with captivating performances that reflected the unique traditions of their respective regions.

From energetic folk dances and soulful musical renditions to traditional storytelling and vibrant costumes, the festival transformed the venue into a living representation of India’s rich and diverse cultural landscape. Each performance highlighted the beauty of regional traditions while reinforcing the spirit of togetherness that binds the nation.

More than 400 students from 20 local schools and madrassas across North Kashmir participated in the programme. Besides enjoying the performances, the students gained valuable insight into the cultural richness and heritage of different parts of the country.

The event attracted enthusiastic participation from students, artists and members of civil society. Continuous applause and active audience engagement reflected the appreciation for such initiatives aimed at promoting cultural understanding and social harmony.

Beyond entertainment, Shaam-e-Shafqat carried a deeper message of preserving, promoting and popularising India’s cultural legacy while strengthening the bond between the youth of North Kashmir and the wider cultural fabric of the nation.

The festival stood as a powerful embodiment of India’s philosophy of “Unity in Diversity”, leaving behind a lasting impression of joy, pride and togetherness among all those who attended.

More than just a cultural event, Shaam-e-Shafqat 2026 emerged as a celebration of India’s pluralistic spirit and a meaningful step towards fostering cultural integration, mutual respect and national unity.

On two solemn anniversaries—the 29th Death Anniversary of literary colossus Syed Manzoor Hashmi and the 8th Martyrdom Anniversary of fearless journalist Dr Syed Shujat Bukhari—Kashmir witnessed a rare moment of united remembrance. The tribute came from Agha Syed Karar Hashmi, an Islamic scholar and grandson of the late poet, currently pursuing advanced studies at the Hauza-Ilmia Qom in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

In a stirring press statement, Agha Hashmi described both departed souls as "the two bright stars from Village Kreeri and Watergam in North Kashmir's Baramulla"—a land that gifted Kashmir a poet who shaped its language and a journalist who bled for its truth. The Poet Who Built a Language, The Journalist Who Died for Peace. 

In a significant announcement, the grandson of Syed Manzoor Hashmi told the press that he will soon organise a grand function in the holy city of Qom, Iran, dedicated to showcasing and celebrating his grandfather's monumental contributions to Kashmir's rich culture and literature. 

Agha Syed Karar Hashmi extended his sincere gratitude to all cultural and literary circles across Kashmir who, year after year, continue to remember these great personalities with dignity and devotion. He acknowledged their unwavering efforts in keeping the legacies of Syed Manzoor Hashmi and Dr Syed Shujat Bukhari alive—an inspiration for future generations.

Late Syed Manzoor Hashmi, remembered on his 29th death anniversary, was not merely a writer but an institution. Hailing from Watergam in North Kashmir, his legendary poetic works—Garmal, Loluk Sargam, and Ichhar Phula—earned him the State Academy of Culture award. A critic, researcher, educator, and master of prose, he shaped Kashmiri literature for generations. On this occasion, his sons—Syed Sarwar Hashmi and Syed Azhar Hashmi, both accomplished poets in their own right—fondly remembered their beloved father, honouring his timeless legacy and the literary path he illuminated for their family and for Kashmir.

Dr Dryed Shujat Bukhari was brutally silenced on June 14, 2018, during the holy month of Ramadan. He was observing his fast (Roza) when terrorists indiscriminately opened fire on him while he was seated inside his vehicle, martyring him in cold blood. Agha Hashmi condemned the heinous act, saying: "He gave his blood hoping for peace. His departure left a void that no words can fill. Hell to terrorism and its perpetrators. " Bukhari also served as president of Adabi Markaz Kamraz, tirelessly championing the Kashmiri language.

"From the seminary in Qom to the valleys of Kashmir, my heart bows to these two giants," Agha Karar Hashmi said. He prayed to Almighty Allah to bless both departed souls with the highest station in Jannat-ul-Firdous—united once more, as they were in life, through their profound love for Kashmir and its voice.