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.

Sopore, May 12: In a significant initiative aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing farmers’ income through crop diversification, the Division of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir organized a one-day Interaction-cum-Demonstration Programme on “Production Technologies of Niche Crops” under HADP Project No. 2 titled “Promotion of Niche Crops in UT of Jammu & Kashmir.”

The programme was held at the Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura with the objective of creating awareness among field functionaries of the Agriculture Department regarding scientific production technologies, improved management practices, and the economic potential of niche crops in the Kashmir Valley. More than 40 field functionaries from the Agriculture Departments of Baramulla, Bandipora, and Kupwara districts actively participated in the programme.

Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura, Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Mir attended the event as the Chief Guest. Addressing the participants, he highlighted the growing importance of niche crops in enhancing farm income, ensuring nutritional security, promoting crop diversification, and strengthening sustainable agricultural development in the region. He stressed the need for adopting modern and climate-resilient technologies to improve productivity and profitability.

The programme was coordinated by Prof. Bashir Ahmad Alie, who elaborated on the objectives and significance of HADP Project No. 2. He emphasized the role of scientific agronomic interventions in promoting niche crop cultivation among farming communities across Jammu and Kashmir.

During the programme, experts conducted field demonstrations on various aspects of niche crop production, including improved crop varieties, nutrient management, irrigation practices, weed management, and sustainable crop production technologies. Participants actively interacted with scientists and experts, discussing several field-level challenges and opportunities associated with niche crop cultivation.

The participants appreciated the efforts of the Division of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura for organizing such awareness and interaction-oriented programmes that facilitate the dissemination of innovative agricultural technologies among stakeholders.

The organizers also expressed gratitude to Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, along with the Directorate of Extension Education and other concerned departments for their support and encouragement in conducting the programme successfully.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks presented by Dr Rayees Ahmad.

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 20 April 2026; SJS Parents Welfare Association, Baramulla, led by its President Dr Mir Waseem today met the Principal of St. Joseph’s School Baramulla and formally submitted the duly completed registration documents of the Association, marking an important step toward organised parent participation in school affairs.

The interaction was cordial and purposeful. Members of the Association raised and discussed several matters related to the academic environment, student welfare, infrastructure, communication, and overall institutional functioning. The Association stressed the need for a structured and transparent mechanism to strengthen coordination between parents and the school administration for the holistic development of students.

The Principal welcomed the initiative of forming a registered Parents Welfare Association and appreciated the constructive approach adopted by its members. He assured the Association of full cooperation and a positive response to genuine concerns raised in the interest of students and the institution.

Both sides expressed their commitment to maintaining a healthy, respectful, and collaborative relationship aimed at ensuring quality education and a supportive learning atmosphere for every child.

The meeting concluded on a highly positive and reassuring note.

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

 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.”

Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, has published _اوچھ *(Avuch)* the highly anticipated Kashmiri translation of the iconic Hindi novel _KYĀP_ by the late legendary writer Manohar Shyam Joshi. Translated by the esteemed multilingual writer Rafeeq Masoodi, this work marks a significant milestone in enriching Kashmiri literature and culture. Manohar Shyam Joshi, a trailblazer in Indian television drama, is best known for his trendsetting scripts like _BUNIYAD_ and _KHANDAN_, inspiring readers, writers, and audiences alike. His literary legacy guides generations of writers, and _KYĀP_, a modern Hindi classic, showcases his storytelling mastery. Rafeeq Masoodi's masterful translation brings _KYĀP_ to Kashmiri-speaking audiences, capturing Joshi's essence and nuance. Readers and literary circles welcome this addition to Kashmiri prose, recognizing its potential to resonate with a new generation. آو ھ_ enriches Kashmir's cultural and literary landscape, celebrating the region's heritage and storytelling's power to bridge languages and communities. 📚

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.

Kupwara, March 27: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organized an outreach programme on eco-friendly pest management at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara on Thursday, aiming to promote sustainable agricultural practices among tribal farmers.

The programme was conducted under the All India Coordinated Research Project on Biological Control of Crop Pests (AICRP-BC), Division of Entomology, Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-K Shalimar, with support from ICAR–National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (ICAR-NBAIR), Bengaluru.

Prof. Rahiaina Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, who attended the event as Chief Guest, emphasized the importance of environmentally safe and sustainable pest management practices in enhancing crop productivity and ensuring long-term soil health.

Dr. Akhtar Ali Khan, Professor & Head, Division of Entomology, and Dr. G. M. Bhat, Professor & Head, KVK Kupwara, also addressed the gathering. They encouraged farmers to adopt integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, highlighting their effectiveness in reducing dependency on chemical pesticides while improving crop quality.

During the technical sessions, Dr. Sajad Mohi-ud-Din, Principal Investigator, and Dr. Mudasir Gani, Co-Principal Investigator, provided detailed insights into pest management strategies for key crops including pulses, maize, and apple. The experts laid special focus on biological control methods as a sustainable alternative to conventional practices.

As part of the Tribal Sub-Plan initiative of ICAR-NBAIR, essential agricultural inputs such as rajmash seeds, vermicompost, pheromone traps, and neem oil were distributed among participating tribal farmers to support eco-friendly farming.

The programme concluded with an interactive session, where farmers shared their experiences and appreciated SKUAST-K’s efforts in promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible agriculture in the area.

Srinagar, Feb, 27:Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, called for strengthening plant health intelligence systems and adopting predictive approaches to pest management while delivering the keynote address at the National Conference on “Innovations in Plant Health Management for Resilient Agriculture and Agri-Export Promotion” held at National Institute of Plant Health Management.

The three-day national conference, being organized from February 26–28 in Hyderabad, brought together scientists, policymakers and plant health experts from across the country to deliberate on emerging agricultural challenges and sustainable crop protection strategies.

In his keynote address, Prof. Ganai emphasized the urgent need to shift from conventional reactive pest control systems to predictive, intelligence-driven plant health governance. He stressed the importance of fully operationalizing the National Integrated Plant Health Intelligence Mission to enable timely surveillance, early warning systems and data-based decision making in agriculture.

Highlighting India’s growing agricultural output, he noted that while the country produces over 330 million tonnes of food grains annually and horticulture production has surpassed food grain output, pests and diseases continue to cause significant crop losses. Referring to global scientific estimates indicating 20–40 percent crop losses due to biological stresses, he said such losses translate into major economic and ecological costs.

Prof. Ganai observed that climate variability, global trade expansion and increasing pest resistance are rapidly transforming the biological risk landscape. He cited the spread of invasive pests such as Fall Armyworm, Tomato Leaf Miner, Desert Locust outbreaks and Apple Blotch Leaf Miner as clear indicators of evolving threats to agricultural sustainability.

He further underlined the need for modern surveillance systems, including digital pest monitoring networks, smart traps, drone-based precision applications, biological control methods and climate-linked forecasting models. According to him, improved early detection and targeted interventions would help reduce pesticide dependence, minimize crop losses and strengthen agri-export compliance standards.

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the importance of customized plant health advisory systems for climate-sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir, particularly for temperate horticulture ecosystems.

During the inaugural session, Prof. Ganai also declared open a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on “Appropriate Pesticide Application Techniques.” Participants described his address as timely and policy-oriented amid rising climate-linked pest challenges.

Later, the SKUAST-K delegation visited the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, where Prof. Ganai held detailed discussions with Director General Dr. Himanshu Pathak and senior scientists. The meeting explored opportunities for collaborative research on climate-resilient agriculture, pest surveillance and sustainable farming solutions.

The proposed collaboration is expected to strengthen research partnerships and support farmers, particularly in addressing emerging pest threats and climate-related agricultural challenges in Kashmir Valley and other vulnerable regions.

Kupwara,Feb,25:The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara organized a Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) Input Distribution Programme aimed at strengthening the livelihoods of tribal farmers in the district. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the Regional Fodder Station Shuhama, Ganderbal, and the Dryland Agriculture Research Station (DARS) Budgam under the aegis of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir.

The event was inaugurated by Prof. G. M. Bhat, Head of KVK Kupwara, who welcomed the chief guest Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir, along with officials from collaborating institutions. Around 150 tribal farmers from various villages of Kupwara district participated in the programme and received agricultural and fodder inputs to enhance livestock-based farming and ensure fodder security.

Addressing the gathering, Director Extension Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth emphasized the importance of scientific fodder cultivation in strengthening the livestock sector, particularly in tribal and hilly regions. She highlighted that improved fodder management practices can significantly enhance farm productivity and income while helping farmers overcome seasonal fodder shortages during winter months.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Aijaz Ahmad Lone from DARS Budgam elaborated on dryland agricultural technologies and crop management practices suitable for rainfed farming conditions prevalent in Kupwara district.

During the programme, annual and perennial fodder grass seeds were distributed among farmers by officials of the Regional Fodder Station Shuhama, while improved agricultural inputs were also provided by DARS Budgam to promote sustainable farming practices.

Showkat Masoodi, Head of Civil Society Kupwara, appreciated the initiative and encouraged farmers to adopt modern agricultural technologies introduced by SKUAST-Kashmir to improve productivity and resilience in changing climatic conditions.

Senior scientists of KVK Kupwara, including Dr. Firdous Ahmad Raina,Dr. Shahid Ahmad Hakeem, and Dr. Faisal Nabi Bhat, guided farmers on scientific fodder cultivation, balanced livestock nutrition, and effective utilization of the distributed inputs.

The programme concluded with an interactive session where farmers shared field-level challenges and received expert recommendations. The initiative is expected to play a significant role in improving fodder availability and strengthening livelihood security among tribal farming communities in Kupwara district.