Kreri, May 28: Krohen Cultural Forum Kreeri has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of renowned poet and writer Dr Bashir Badr, describing his passing as an irreparable loss to Urdu literature.

In a condolence message, President of the Forum, Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim said that Dr Bashir Badr was a shining figure in Urdu literature whose poetry beautifully captured themes of love, humanity, pain and the realities of life. He said the late poet’s literary contributions would continue to inspire generations and remain alive in the hearts of literature lovers.

He further stated that with the demise of Dr Bashir Badr, Urdu literature has lost a distinguished poet, thinker and an extraordinary personality whose works earned admiration across literary circles.

The Forum also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, members of the literary fraternity and admirers of the late poet, praying for eternal peace for the departed soul and strength for the family to bear the loss.

Handwara, May,21: The Department of School Education School Education Department Kupwara on Wednesday organized an Awareness Campaign and Mashal Launch Programme under the prestigious ATAL Tinkering Labs Initiative in Education Sub Division Handwara.

The programme was held under the guidance of the Chief Education Officer Kupwara through the District Nodal Officer, ATAL Tinkering Labs, and was inaugurated by the Additional Deputy Commissioner Handwara in the presence of education officials, principals, headmasters, technical experts, and students from various educational institutions.

The campaign aimed to create awareness among students and teachers regarding innovation, robotics, coding, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, and scientific learning under the ATAL Innovation Mission framework.

Speaking on the occasion, the Additional Deputy Commissioner Handwara appreciated the efforts of the education department in promoting innovation-driven learning and stressed the importance of modern technological platforms in nurturing young talent.

Officials highlighted the role of ATAL Tinkering Labs in developing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students and emphasized the effective utilization of ATL resources in schools.

The programme concluded with interactive sessions, technical demonstrations, and discussions on strengthening ATL activities across schools in Education Sub Division Handwara.

Kupwara, May 21:A comprehensive awareness-cum-training programme on vegetable cultivation, potato production, vermicomposting, and natural farming was organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kupwara in collaboration with the Division of Olericulture, Faculty of Horticulture at the far-flung border area of Machil in district Kupwara.

The programme witnessed overwhelming participation of around 300 farmers, including a large number of youth and women farmers from the area. The main objective of the programme was to create awareness among the farming community regarding scientific vegetable cultivation, natural farming, vermicompost preparation, and livelihood generation through agriculture and allied sectors.

During the programme, a large quantity of agricultural inputs was distributed among the farmers to encourage vegetable cultivation and improve farm productivity in the region. Around 70 quintals of high-quality potato seed were distributed among selected farmers. Besides this, plastic buckets, vermicompost units, and seeds of 16 different vegetable varieties were also provided for the promotion of kitchen gardening and nutritional security.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. GM. Bhat highlighted the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices. He elaborated on the preparation and benefits of vermicompost and stressed the adoption of natural farming techniques for maintaining soil fertility, reducing input costs, and producing healthy food. He said that integrated vegetable cultivation and natural farming can significantly improve the socio-economic condition of rural farmers, especially in remote border areas like Machil.

Dr. Ashfaq Abidi delivered an informative lecture on scientific potato cultivation practices and explained various aspects related to seed treatment, sowing methods, nutrient management, disease control, irrigation, and harvesting techniques for achieving higher productivity under local climatic conditions.

Dr. Faheema spoke in detail about scientific vegetable cultivation and management practices. She guided farmers regarding seasonal vegetable cultivation, nursery management, pest and disease control, balanced fertilizer application, and protected cultivation for enhancing vegetable production and farm income.

Among others, Dr. Ummia Masoodi emphasized the need for scientific cultivation of agricultural crops for livelihood generation and highlighted the importance of adopting modern farming technologies for improving the rural economy and employment opportunities.

Scientists from the Division of Vegetable Science and KVK Kupwara also interacted with the farmers and provided practical guidance regarding improved farming technologies, vegetable production, entrepreneurship opportunities, and rural employment generation. The experts encouraged unemployed youth to adopt agriculture and vegetable farming as a profession and become self-reliant through modern scientific farming practices.

Dr. G. M. Bhat thanked the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir and Director Extension Education for their continuous support and cooperation. He stated that the programme was organized in the remote border area as per the directions of the Vice-Chancellor with the objective of extending scientific agricultural technologies to the farming community at their doorstep.

The participating farmers appreciated the efforts of SKUAST-K and KVK Kupwara for organizing such a beneficial programme in the remote border area and expressed gratitude for providing quality seed material, vermicompost units, and technical guidance.

The programme concluded with an interactive session where farmers raised various field-related issues and received expert advice from the scientists.

Kreeri, May 9: In a landmark moment for the media community, former Law Minister Syed Basharat Bukhari along with MLA Wagoora- Kreeri Irfan Lone led the inauguration of the Press Club Kreeri at the Andrabi Complex, marking a new chapter for journalists in the Kreeri-Wagoora region.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Media Association Kreeri, brings together journalists under a unified platform aimed at addressing professional challenges, fostering coordination, and reinforcing the principles of ethical journalism. The newly established press club is expected to serve as a vital institution for amplifying public concerns and promoting responsible reporting.

Among those present on the occasion were MLA Kreeri-Wagoora Irfan Hafeez Lone, the Station House Officer Kreeri, the President of the Traders Federation Kreeri, the Block Medical Officer Kreeri, and several other prominent officials, all of whom lauded the initiative and extended their full support.

Addressing the gathering, the Station House Officer emphasised the indispensable role of journalism in society, describing it as the backbone of democracy and a key pillar in ensuring transparency and accountability. He called upon journalists to uphold the highest standards of integrity while serving the public.

In a notable gesture of encouragement, the President of the Traders Federation Kreeri announced an immediate financial contribution of 11,000 rupees for the maintenance of the press club and assured continued support in the future.

President of the Baramulla Working Journalists Association, Zargar Gulzar, praised the collective effort and stressed the importance of unity among journalists, while General Secretary Omer Rashid reaffirmed full cooperation with the newly formed body.

The Media Association Kreeri, in its concluding remarks, reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the interests of journalists and maintaining professional excellence. It expressed confidence that the press club would emerge as a strong platform for addressing community issues and advancing the cause of fair and ethical journalism in the region.

Kupwara,May,07: Hachmarg village in the Ramhal area of Kupwara is fast emerging as one of Kashmir’s leading tomato-producing villages, where nearly 99 percent households are associated with tomato cultivation and vegetable farming.

The transformation of the village into a major tomato cultivation hub has been made possible through the continuous efforts and scientific guidance provided by (SKUAST-K) and the Agriculture Department, which have been actively promoting modern and scientific farming practices among local farmers.

Continuing its farmer outreach initiatives, the Division of Vegetable Science, Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-K, in collaboration with (KVK Kupwara), organised an impressive input and seed distribution programme at Hachmarg village under the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) project titled “Transforming Tribal Agriculture in Kashmir: A Comprehensive Vegetable Development Initiative.”

During the programme, vegetable seeds and agricultural toolkits were distributed among around 150 farmers to promote scientific vegetable cultivation and strengthen the livelihood of tribal farming communities in the remote Ramhal area.

The scientists and experts present on the occasion encouraged farmers to adopt improved and scientific vegetable production technologies for enhancing productivity, better income generation and sustainable livelihood security.

The programme was attended by Prof. Ishfaq Abidi, Head Division of Vegetable Science; Mohammad Iqbal Choudhary, CEO Seeds SKUAST-K; Prof. G.M. Bhat, Head KVK Kupwara; Dr. Asima Amin, Assistant Professor and Principal Investigator of the TSP Project; Dr. Mohammad Mudasir Magray, Assistant Professor, besides other teaching and non-teaching staff members from SKUAST-K and KVK Kupwara.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Mohammad Iqbal Choudhary and other experts spoke in detail about scientific farming techniques, modern cultivation tools and the importance of adopting advanced vegetable farming practices. The speakers also highlighted the role of SKUAST-K Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie, Director Extension Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth and Prof. Haroon Rashid in implementing various developmental projects under TSP, JKCIP and other farmer welfare schemes in Kupwara district.

Farmers of the village appreciated the continued support and regular field visits by SKUAST-K scientists and officials. They expressed gratitude for the timely distribution of quality seeds, farming tools and technical guidance, especially during difficult and crucial farming periods, and hoped for more developmental projects for the tomato-growing village in future.

Kreeri, Muradabad: The Kruhen Cultural Forum Kreeri Muradabad organized a significant meeting at its head office, followed by a grand Mehfil-e-Mushaira, reflecting both its administrative commitment and literary zeal.
The programme commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Mumtaz Rashid, setting a spiritual tone for the gathering. This was followed by a soulful Naat-e-Sharief presented by Ghulam Hassan Darwaish. Both the formal meeting and the mushaira session were presided over by eminent literary personality Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim.
During the meeting, members deliberated extensively on several important issues related to the functioning and future roadmap of the forum. A detailed review of the forum’s constitution was undertaken, and after threadbare discussions, a number of amendments were approved to enhance its effectiveness and ensure smoother operations.
Participants emphasized the need to further strengthen the forum’s role in the promotion of culture, literature, and intellectual engagement in the region. The leadership reiterated its resolve to work with renewed enthusiasm and dedication to foster literary activities and provide a platform for budding as well as established writers.
The meeting was followed by a grand Mehfil-e-Mushaira, which witnessed the participation of poets and literature enthusiasts. The poetic session added a vibrant cultural dimension to the event, celebrating the richness of Urdu literature and offering a platform for creative expression.
The event concluded on a note of optimism, with members expressing confidence that the forum will continue to play a pivotal role in nurturing cultural and literary traditions in the region.

Kupwara, Apr,24:In a major boost to agricultural development in north Kashmir, a large-scale Farmers’

Awareness-cum-Seed Distribution Programme was organized today by the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kupwara. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation of more than 300 farmers from across the district, including Langate, Lolab, Rajwar, Teetwal, Machil, Budnambal, Mawar, and Bramri.

The programme aimed at educating farmers on modern vegetable cultivation practices, scientific interventions, and improved farm management techniques to enhance productivity and sustainability. Experts stressed the need for adopting climate-resilient technologies, quality planting material, and integrated crop management practices to boost yield and income.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Kupwara, who attended as the Chief Guest, lauded the efforts of agricultural institutions in empowering the farming community. He underlined the significance of awareness and institutional support in building a self-reliant and progressive rural economy.

A team of scientists from the Division of Vegetable Science, including Prof. Ishfaq Abidi and Prof. Syed Faheema, shared expert insights on advanced vegetable production, pest and disease management, and the use of improved seed varieties.

On the occasion, 220 quintals of scientifically developed potato seed were distributed among farmers under the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) programme sponsored by Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Shimla. The initiative is expected to significantly enhance crop productivity and improve farmers’ livelihoods in the district.

Farmers and local participants expressed gratitude for the continued support and guidance of Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Director Extension Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, and the entire team of KVK Kupwara. Special appreciation was extended to Head KVK Kupwara, Prof. G.M. Bhat, for his leadership in organizing such impactful programmes.

The event concluded with an interactive session, where farmers raised field-level concerns and received practical solutions from experts, making the programme both informative and beneficial.

Baramulla  April, 19:- A meeting of the District cadre of the JK Teachers Association, Baramulla, was held today at the District headquarters to deliberate on important organisational matters and to chart a roadmap for strengthening the Association at all levels. The meeting witnessed enthusiastic participation from Zonal Presidents and senior members of the Association. 

During the deliberations, detailed discussions were held on reinforcing the organisational structure, improving coordination among zones, and enhancing the role of teachers in addressing academic and service-related issues. The members unanimously stressed the need for unity, discipline, and collective responsibility to make the Association more vibrant and effective.

On this occasion, the District Body of JKTA Baramulla was also revamped to ensure better representation, accountability, and smooth functioning of the Association. Various responsibilities were reassigned to energise and make the organisation more responsive to the concerns of the teaching community.

The speakers highlighted that a strong and united organisation is essential for safeguarding the dignity, rights, and professional interests of teachers. They reiterated their commitment to work collectively for the welfare of the teaching fraternity and the betterment of the education system in the district.

The meeting concluded with a pledge to strengthen the organisational base of JKTA further and to work with renewed dedication and unity.

The new list of office bearers is as follows:

1. Mr Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat (District President)

2. Mr Javid Iqbal Najar (Patron)

3. Mr Mohd Maqbool Khan (Convenor)

4. Mr Sajad Ahmad Bhat (V President)

5. Mr Nazir Ahmad Dar(V President)

6. Mr Samir Ali Khan (G Secretary)

7. Mr Ashwani Bhamu (Add Secretary)

8. Mr Mohd Akbar Lone (J.Secratary)

9. Mr Avtar Kishan (Chief Spokesperson)

10. Mr Shabir Ah Lone (Chief Advisor)

11. Mr Imtiyaz Hussain Rather Wagoora (Treasurer)

12. Mr Ab Rasheed Dar (Organiser)

13. Mr Bilal Ahmad Lone (Organiser)

14. Mr Showkat Ahmad Sood (Discipline coordinator )

15. Mr Zeeshan Pervaz (Media Advisor)

16. Mr Mukhtar Ah Qureshi (Boniyar) (Publicity Secretary)

17. Mr Liyakat Ahmad Tantray Uri(Advisor)

18. Mr Imtiyaz Ahmad Lone Nehalpora (Chief Coordinator)

19. Mr Ab Rehman Lone Baramulla (Media Cell)

20. Mr Nazir Ahmad Guroo (Media Coordinator)

21. Mr Mohd Imran Khan Dangerpora (Legal Advisor)

22. Mr Fayaz Ahmad Malik (Coordinator)

23. Mr Nisar Ah Khan Jhulla (Deputy Organiser)

24. Mr Ab Razak Lone (Auditor)

25. Mr Gh Nabi Najar Khanpora (Auditor2)

27. Mr Shabir Ahmad Malik (Pattan) Deputy Coordinator 

28. Mr Peerzada Tariq Ah (Dangiwacha) Deputy Organiser 

29. Mr Tasleem Ahmad Khan (In-Charge Programs)

Sikh Minority cell: 

 29. Mr Jatinder Pal Singh

30. Mr Balvinder Singh

31. Mr Jagjeet Singh

ST cell:

32. Mr Chowdhary Mohd Saleem

33. Mr Chowdhary Munaver Hussain 

34. Mr Mohd Amir 

PM Package Employees Cell:

35. Mr Opindher Kholi

36. Mr Ashwani Bhatt

37. Mr Pawan Kumar

Jammu-Based Reserved Category Cell:

38. Mr Ram Krishan Salgotra 

39 Mr Suresh Kumar

40. Mr Vipon Verma

41. Mr Kuldeep 

Women's wing

41. Mtr Shabana Gul

Issued by

Zeeshan Parvaiz 

Media Advisor 

JKTA Baramulla

Kupwara, Apr, 09: Illegal felling of forest trees by alleged jungle smugglers has been reported from Compartment No. 20 of Forest Division Kupwara, covering the areas of Kandi, Takibal, and Hoarn villages in Kupwara district.

The incident has sparked concern among local residents and environmental observers, who have expressed alarm over the continued degradation of forest resources in the area.

Efforts to obtain an official statement from the concerned Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) remained unsuccessful, as repeated phone calls, text messages, and WhatsApp communications went unanswered, which was termed as unfortunate and disappointing. (HT-NEWSNETWORK)

However, a local forest officer confirmed that an FIR bearing No. 0063 under Section 303(2)/26 of the Forest Act was registered on April 08, 2026, against two identified smugglers involved in the illegal activity. The officer further stated that a forest guard has been attached to the Range Office for the past five days in connection with the case.

Authorities have initiated an investigation, and strict action is expected against the accused smugglers as well as any forest officials found involved or negligent in the matter.

The incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced vigilance, accountability, and coordinated efforts to safeguard the fragile forest ecosystem of Kupwara.

 Baramulla:- April 06:- Plantation Drives Across District Baramulla – A Collective Step Towards a Greener Future

Under the exemplary leadership of the Honourable Minister of Education, Jammu and Kashmir, plantation initiatives were successfully conducted today across all educational institutions within District Baramulla, demonstrating widespread enthusiasm and dedication.

The Chief Education Officer (CEO) of Baramulla personally supervised the plantation efforts in Zone Dangerpora, with particular emphasis on HSS Botingo and HS Seelo, motivating both staff and students through active engagement. Meanwhile, Deputy Education Public Officer (DEPO) Baramulla, Tariq Ahmad, participated actively in the plantation initiative organised in Cluster Dangiwacha, reinforcing the communal spirit of this commendable endeavour.

All institution heads and zonal education officers ensured the effective execution of the program through thorough planning and coordination. The drives received enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and community members, reflecting a collective commitment to environmental preservation.

This initiative extends beyond the act of planting saplings; it aims to foster a culture of responsibility, awareness, and sustainable living among the youth. Each sapling represents a symbol of hope, growth, and the prospect of a greener future for Kashmir.

These collaborative efforts, conducted under the Greener Kashmir Programme and Mission LiFE, serve as a compelling reminder that collective small actions can culminate in significant environmental impact.

The Chief Education Office, Baramulla, commends the dedication, teamwork, and enthusiasm demonstrated by all stakeholders. It is imperative that we continue to maintain this momentum and commitment to protect and conserve the environment for future generations.

“Plant today, nurture tomorrow, and secure the future.”

Srinagar, March 29: The Executive Body of the Kruhen Cultural Forum Kreeri held an important Session at its head office in Andrabi Complex, Kreeri, where a comprehensive strategy was formulated to revive and strengthen the functioning of the organisation and to promote literary and cultural activities across the region.

The meeting was presided over by the Forum President, Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim, while proceedings were conducted by General Secretary Syed Sharief Hussain Qadri. Detailed deliberations were held on strengthening the organisational structure, improving institutional performance, and revitalising literary and cultural engagement in North Kashmir.

The Executive Body also decided to organise a grand one-day literary conference on April 12, 2026, at Government Degree College Kreeri. The conference will comprise two sessions. During the inaugural session, a new literary honour titled “Sharaf-e-Kruhen” will be instituted. The first award will be conferred posthumously upon noted scholar and litterateur, the late Syed Manzoor Hashmi, in recognition of his significant literary contributions.

The meeting ratified the induction of new members, including Mumtaz Rashid, Shaukat Tilgami, Dilbar Wani Gami, Syed Tasaduq Hussain Gohar, and Ghulam Hassan Darvesh.

A representative delegation was also constituted for Adabi Markaz Kamraz, comprising SGM Andrabi, Mumtaz Rashid, Shaukat Tilgami, and Sarwar Hashmi. The delegation will be led by Executive Member Syed Jahangir Bukhari.

In a move to revive its publication activities, the Forum constituted an editorial board tasked with expediting the publication of its long-pending annual journal “Anhaar.” Additionally, it was decided to launch a new publication titled “Babul Murad,” aimed at providing a platform for emerging writers and literary enthusiasts to showcase their creative work.

Concluding the meeting, Vice President Syed Ghulam Mohiuddin Andrabi expressed satisfaction over the proceedings and reaffirmed the Forum’s commitment to intensifying efforts for the promotion of literature and culture in the region.

Srinagar, March 29: The Executive Body of the Kruhen Cultural Forum Kreeri held an important meeting at its head office located in Andrabi Complex, Kreeri, to deliberate on measures aimed at strengthening the organization’s functioning and promoting literary and cultural activities.

The meeting was presided over by the Forum’s President, Syed Shamim Ahmad Shamim, while proceedings were conducted by General Secretary Syed Sharief Hussain Qadri. Detailed discussions were held on revitalizing one of North Kashmir’s oldest literary organizations and expanding its scope and outreach.

Among the key decisions, it was announced that a grand one-day literary conference will be held on April 12, 2026, at Government Degree College Kreeri. The conference will consist of two sessions. During the first session, a new award titled “Sharaf-e-Kruhen” will be instituted. The inaugural award will be conferred posthumously upon noted scholar late Syed Manzoor Hashmi in recognition of his distinguished and lasting contributions to literature.

The Executive Body also carried out the selection of its members and appointed representatives for Adabi Markaz Kamraz. In this regard, a five-member delegation was constituted under the leadership of a member of the Executive Body.

To streamline and strengthen publication activities, an editorial board was also established to oversee the Forum’s publications. The board has been directed to ensure the early revival of the annual journal “Anhaar,” which has remained suspended for several years. Additionally, the Forum resolved to launch a new publication titled “Bab-ul-Murad,” aimed at providing an effective platform for young writers and literary enthusiasts.

Concluding the meeting, Vice President Syed Ghulam Mohiuddin Andrabi expressed satisfaction over the proceedings and reiterated the Forum’s commitment to advancing its objectives and promoting literary excellence.