Day: January 12, 2026
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Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU)Celebrates National Youth Day
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RAJOURI JAN, 12:-Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), Rajouri, celebrated National Youth Day with great enthusiasm and reverence to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, the great philosopher, thinker, and youth icon of India. The event was organized by the NCC Unit of the University.
Registrar BGSBU, Sh. Abhishek Sharma, IAS, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and paid rich tributes to Swami Vivekananda, recalling his timeless teachings on youth empowerment, character building, and nation-building. He emphasized that Swami Vivekananda’s vision continues to guide the youth of the nation in the present era of rapid technological and social change.
While addressing the gathering, the Registrar highlighted the decisive role of youth in shaping the destiny of the nation and urged students and NCC cadets to imbibe the values of discipline, self-confidence, dedication, and service to society as advocated by Swami Vivekananda. He encouraged them to combine knowledge with strong moral values to become responsible citizens and future leaders.Earlier, Dr. Parvez Alam, Chief Proctor, BGSBU, delivered the welcome address.
Dr. Shreekar Pant also spoke on the occasionFaculty members, officers of the NCC Unit, staff, NCC cadets, and students participated in the programme
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Delegation of Transport Unions Meets SDM and SDPO Mendhar Over Bus Stand Parking, Lawful Operations and Public Hardship
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ALTAF HUSSAIN
MENDHAR JAN, 12:-A delegation comprising representatives of various transport unions, led by DDC Headquarter Mendhar Er. Wajid Bashir Khan (Ticko) and the President of the Taxi Union, met with the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Mendhar and Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Mendhar to raise serious concerns regarding the operation and parking of Tata Sumo vehicles and mini taxis at the Mendhar Bus Stand, along with the growing hardship being faced by the general public.
The meeting witnessed the participation of hundreds of drivers, reflecting the seriousness of the issue and its direct impact on the livelihoods of transport workers as well as on public transport services. The delegation demanded that Tata Sumo and mini taxi vehicles be allowed to operate from the Mendhar Bus Stand in a regulated and lawful manner, stating that the current uncertainty has disrupted smooth transport movement.
An important issue highlighted during the meeting was the severe inconvenience being faced by the general public, particularly patients, elderly persons, women and daily commuters. The delegation stated that due to mismanagement and restrictions at the bus stand, people are being forced to walk long distances to reach the bus stand and nearby market areas. This situation has caused serious suffering to patients visiting hospitals, who often find it extremely difficult to walk such distances due to illness or physical weakness.
After listening to the delegation, the SDM Mendhar stated that the issue is a matter of law and assured that any decision taken by the administration will strictly be in accordance with legal provisions. He emphasized that public land must be used in an organized and lawful manner, keeping public interest in view.
The SDPO Mendhar stated that no agent is legally authorized to collect commission from any driver unless valid and approved parking documents are available. He said that if any agent is collecting commission, they must produce proper parking documents within two days. After this period, the administration will take appropriate action. He further clarified that no one is above the law and illegal practices will not be tolerated.
DDC Headquarter Mendhar Er. Wajid Bashir Khan (Ticko) clarified that drivers should not be termed as encroachers, as they are paying Rs 50 per day as parking fees to a contractor who has been officially notified by the BDO Mendhar. He urged the administration to acknowledge this fact and ensure that genuine drivers are not harassed.
Er. Wajid Bashir Khan further demanded strict action against those who have illegally encroached upon bus stand land as well as hospital land, stating that such encroachments are the real cause of traffic chaos and public inconvenience. He emphasized that removal of illegal encroachments will improve access for patients and the general public.
Assuring the delegation, the SDM Mendhar stated that after the two-day period, the administration will initiate an encroachment drive wherever required, strictly as per law, to address both transport-related issues and public hardship.
The delegation expressed hope that the assurances given by the SDM and SDPO will translate into timely action on the ground, bringing relief to hundreds of drivers and restoring convenience and accessibility for the general public, especially patients visiting the bus stand, market and hospital areas of Mendhar.
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Faheem Reshi Appeals LG Manoj Sinha for Street Vendors’ Market Outside Eidgah to Support Unemployed Youth
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SRINAGAR JAN, 12:-Mohammad Faheem Reshi on Monday appealed to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, to personally intervene in the establishment of a street vendors/bed market outside Eidgah in Shah-re-Khaas, citing it as a vital step for addressing unemployment among local youth.
In a press statement issued here, Reshi said that several representations have already been submitted to the Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, seeking the creation of a designated vendors’ zone outside Eidgah. He said the proposal aims to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to hundreds of unemployed youth in Shah-re-Khaas.
Reshi expressed concern over the delay in resolving the issue despite repeated appeals to the administration. He alleged that certain “so-called politicians” are deliberately opposing the move, thereby causing hardship to poor and unemployed youth of the area.
Urging the Lieutenant Governor to take personal cognisance of the matter, Reshi requested immediate directions to the concerned authorities for the establishment of the vendors’ market at the earliest.
“This initiative will enable hundreds of unemployed youth to earn a dignified livelihood and will be a significant step towards inclusive development in Shah-re-Khaas,” he said.
He further urged the administration to come forward and support the youth of Shah-re-Khaas in their struggle for employment and economic survival.
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International Women’s Day 2026 Honouring Strength • Celebrating Excellence • Empowering Women
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SRINAGAR JAN, 12:-On 8th March 2026, as the world commemorates International Women’s Day, the International Human Rights Organization – Jammu & Kashmir Chapter (IHRO) proudly marks this global occasion on the historic land of Kashmir, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment, gender equality, human dignity, and social justice.
On this significant day, IHRO Jammu & Kashmir Chapter will honour 100 exceptional women from across the Kashmir Division with Hosla Afzai (Encouragement) Awards, recognizing their outstanding contributions in diverse fields. Among these distinguished honourees, will also be felicitated by IHRO—an honour that is Dr. Shafiqa Gul matter of immense pride for our organization.
✨ Spotlight on Dr.Shafiqa Gul✨
Dr. Shafiqa Gul is a distinguished academician, researcher, and author from Sheikhpora, Budgam, Jammu & Kashmir, with extensive expertise in Business Administration, Human Resource Management, healthcare systems, migration studies, and tribal development. She holds a Post-Doctoral Fellowship (2023) from the University of Kashmir, where her research focused on healthcare inequalities and socio-economic determinants of maternal and child health among tribal communities of Jammu and Kashmir. She earned her Ph.D. in Business Administration (2020) from the Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipora, and was a university topper in both MBA and BBA from the University of Kashmir.
Dr. Shafiqa Gul has significant teaching experience, having served as Assistant Professor at IUST and later as Lecturer in Management and Human Resource Management at Nawakadal Degree College. Her academic career is complemented by rich research engagement with premier institutions including the Tribal Research Institute (J&K), ICMR, UGC, and the HRD Ministry of India, where she worked as Senior Research Fellow, Research Associate, and Junior Research Fellow on nationally recognized projects related to migration, healthcare systems, tribal livelihoods, and psychosocial well-being.
An accomplished scholar, Dr. Gul has authored nine books and contributed 30+ research publications indexed in Scopus and UGC-listed journals, addressing themes such as healthcare management, migration, entrepreneurship, tribal studies, social development, and performance appraisal systems. She has also contributed book chapters on sustainability and green human resource management.
Dr. Shafiqa Gul continues to contribute actively to academia and policy-oriented research, with a strong commitment to social equity, healthcare access, and the empowerment of marginalized and indigenous communities.
She firmly believes that success is built on commitment, hard work, and unwavering dedication.
Through this initiative, the International Human Rights Organization – Jammu & Kashmir Chapter (IHRO) strongly reaffirms its mission to promote human rights, gender equality, women’s leadership, and an empowered society.
INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS ORGANIZATION
JAMMU & KASHMIR CHAPTER (IHRO) -

Baramulla Cyclists Shine at Khelo India Asmita Women’s League, Mark Historic Debut
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SRINAGAR JAN, 12:-District Baramulla and Jammu & Kashmir marked a proud sporting milestone as local women cyclists delivered commendable performances at the Khelo India Asmita Women’s League, held in Kurukshetra, Haryana, from January 10 to 11, 2026.
In a historic first-ever participation of the Jammu & Kashmir women’s cycling team in the prestigious Asmita League, all riders represented District Baramulla, showcasing grit, determination, and competitive spirit on the national stage.
Ulfat Mushtaq emerged as a standout performer, securing 10th position in the 30 km Time Trial and displaying exceptional courage by finishing 11th in the 60 km Mass Start despite suffering a crash during the race.
Mehak Mushtaq also put up a strong showing, finishing 12th in the 30 km Time Trial and 13th in the 60 km Mass Start. Adding to the district’s pride, Hoor-i-ein Lone secured 16th position, further strengthening the team’s overall performance.
Sports enthusiasts and local stakeholders hailed the achievement as a landmark moment for women’s cycling in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly for Baramulla, which has steadily emerged as a nurturing ground for sporting talent.
The riders’ performances were widely praised for reflecting resilience, discipline, and a fighting spirit, inspiring young athletes across the region. Their debut at the Khelo India Asmita League not only brought honor to the district but also opened new avenues for women athletes from Jammu & Kashmir on the national sports map.
The district and the entire Union Territory joined in celebrating the achievement, extending best wishes to the cyclists for continued success and many more milestones in the future.
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SKUAST-K Empowers Youth and SHGs through One-Day Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme
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SRINAGAR JAN, 12:-The Division of Agriculture Extension & Communication, Faculty of Agriculture Wadura, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organized a one-day Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme under the MSME at Village Zaloora, Baramulla, on the theme “Harnessing the Potential of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and Youth for Sustainable Entrepreneurship.”
The programme aimed at sensitizing Self Help Groups, women, artisans, and youth about entrepreneurship opportunities, skill development, and institutional support for sustainable livelihood generation. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of women Self Help Groups, young aspirants, artisans, and other stakeholders. The primary objective of the programme was to promote self-employment, encourage entrepreneurial thinking, and strengthen the economic capacities of SHGs and youth through awareness, capacity building, and exposure to various support schemes.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Mohd Yousuf, Assistant Director Handicrafts, Baramulla, highlighted the role of traditional handicrafts in sustainable entrepreneurship. He elaborated on various government schemes related to Aari, Kaam, and tailoring, which are specifically designed to benefit women Self Help Groups. Dr. Hilal Ahmad, Assistant Handicrafts Training Officer, Kupwara, delivered an enlightening lecture and informed participants about training facilities, financial assistance, and marketing support provided by the Handicrafts Department. He further emphasized that these schemes not only help in preserving traditional art forms but also generate employment opportunities for women.
Mr. Athar Bashir and Ms. Gazala Hassan, officers from Jammu & Kashmir Bank, Wadura, delivered detailed lectures on banking schemes and financial assistance available for artisans, SHGs, and budding entrepreneurs. They explained the procedures for availing loans, subsidies, and credit-linked schemes from banks and encouraged SHG members to approach banks confidently with viable project proposals, assuring them of full cooperation and support.
Speaking on the importance of collective efforts, Dr. Syed Shafat Kubrei emphasized the significance of Self Help Groups in socio-economic development. He stated that SHGs play a vital role in improving livelihoods, promoting savings, and strengthening social unity among members.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. Quadir Javeed Ahmad Peer, who enlightened participants about the concept, scope, and relevance of entrepreneurship for SHGs and youth. He stressed that entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for sustainable development when supported by proper skill development, innovation, value addition, and market linkage. He encouraged participants to utilize locally available resources and traditional skills in a modern and market-oriented manner.
The programme featured interactive sessions where participants raised queries regarding government schemes, banking procedures, and challenges faced in starting entrepreneurial ventures. The resource persons addressed these queries and provided practical guidance, making the programme informative and engaging.
At the conclusion of the programme, Dr. Zahoor Ah. Shah presented the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all the dignitaries, speakers, organizers, and participants for their valuable contributions.
The programme concluded on a positive note, reaffirming SKUAST-K’s commitment to promoting sustainable entrepreneurship, empowering Self Help Groups, and strengthening youth participation in economic development
