SRINAGAR: The two day National Conference on “NEP-Innovative Pedagogical Approaches and Evaluation Reforms in Higher Education” concluded today at Government College of Education (GCoE), M A Road, here. The panel discussion cum valedictory session was attended, among other dignitaries, by the Conference President, Professor Dinesh Singh, Vice Chairperson of Higher Education Council, J&K.
The experts and academicians deliberated upon the umbrella theme of the conference. The panel had academicians and educational administrators from various fields and institutions discussing key themes that had come up for discussion during the technical sessions earlier and the day before.
Professor Shakil Ahmad Ramshoo, Vice Chancellor IUST, Professor Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor Jammu University, Professor Yasmeen Ashai, Director Colleges, Professor Majid Zaman, Controller of Examinations, Kashmir University, Professor Khurshid, Controller of Examinations Cluster University, Professor Mythili Ramchand from TISS, Mumbai, Professor Sandeep from Delhi University and Professor Renu Nanda from Jammu University deliberated upon the pertinent issues that the system of education is confronted with in view of implementation of NEP-2020 in J&K.
Heading the proceedings of the panel discussion, Professor Dinesh sought suggestions from the panel. Professors Yasmeen, Director Colleges fore grounded the possibilities as well as concerns that NEP-2020 brings to J&K. Professor Majid Zaman emphasized the need for unlearning and relearning on the part of teachers that could set the tone for the policy implementation.
Citing the example of TISS, Mumbai Professor Mythili Ramchand said that internal assessments have replaced external assessments which in itself brings more autonomy and agency to the teacher and flexibility and fluidity in the system, a key for educational reform. She also raised concerns regarding the centralization of education. “We need to be clear on how to connect our students with their inner urges for vocation”, Professor Sandeep from Delhi University advocated.
While responding to a query from a delegate, Professor Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor Jammu University asserted that multi-disciplinarity and inter-disciplinarity are very much possible. Citing examples of the DYD program launched by Jammu University, he suggested that narrow disciplinary approaches must give way to courses and programs having loose boundaries.
The major recommendations that resonated during the technical sessions were summed up by the Conference Coordinator, Fazl illahi. Fostering a culture of continuous advancement and 21st century skills, greater focus on multi-modal teaching, introduction of CBA and numerical techniques in assessment and evaluation besides robust support to CCE were the other recommendations that came up during deliberation. The conference concluded with Dr. Nazir Ahmad Bhat, HOD Education initiating the formal vote of thanks.
- DC Kulgam reviews progress made on Transit Accommodations
- Directs Officers & Contractors to prioritize the completion of these projects within the fixed timelines
KULGAM: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan today chaired a meeting of Officers at Mini-secretariat here to review the progress made on Transit Accommodations at Vessu, Chowgam and Mirhama. During the meeting, the DC instructed for expediting the execution of works to ensure timely completion.
It was informed that the transit accommodations at Mirhama and Chowgam each consist of 12 blocks and currently, work has commenced on eight blocks in each location with an allotted cost of INR 22.95 crore and INR 22.88 crore, respectively. In Vessu, the transit accommodation comprises of 13 blocks. Of these, six blocks have already been completed, and work is ongoing on the remaining seven blocks.
The DC directed all officers and contractors to prioritize the completion of these projects within the fixed timelines to provide adequate housing for the migrant employees. The meeting was attended by the Superintending Engineer (SE) of R&B Kulgam Circle, along with the Executive Engineer R&B Kulgam, Assistant Executive Engineers (AEE), Executive Engineer Jal Shakti, Executive Engineer JKPDCL, and other concerned.
- 'International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking' observed in Bandipora
- DC presides over main event at Auditorium, Kaloosa; emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts for Rehabilitation of Drug Addicts
BANDIPORA: The 'International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking' was observed today in the auditorium hall of NM Higher Secondary School, Bandipora. The program, organized by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with District Administration Bandipora, was presided over by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Shakeel ul Rehman and attended by people from all walks of life.
The program commenced with the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Pledge, where participants took pledge against drug abuse and to work towards creating a drug-free society. On the occasion, a book written by renowned educationist Ahmadullah Shah was also released. The program also featured cultural performances by students to highlight the ill effects of drug abuse.
Addressing the gathering, the DC highlighted the role of panchayat-level awareness campaigns to combat drug abuse at the grassroots level. He urged all stakeholders to come out of denial mode in cases of drug abuse and urged parents to be proactive and tackle drug abuse cases with added responsibility. He said that drug addicts are victims in need of compassion and effective support systems and stressed the need for collaborative efforts for their rehabilitation.
The DC also urged civil society members and religious heads to play their role in combating drug abuse. Highlighting the impact of drug abuse on students, District Social Welfare Officer Sahir Majeed urged everyone to join hands in raising awareness and taking action against drug abuse to ensure a brighter future for the generations to come.
Speaking on the occasion, Padmashree Faisal Ali Dar deliberated on the devastating impact of drug abuse and the urgent need for collective action to address this global issue. Later, an awareness rally was organized, which commenced at N. M. Hr. Secondary School Kaloosa and concluded at Gulshan Chowk Bandipora.
Padmashree Faisal Ali Dar, CEO G. M. Pujoo, DSWO Sahir Majeed, ARTO Anees Ahmad, DIO, Aadil Manzoor Wani, Secretary Handicapped Association Nazir Ahmad, officers and officials of different departments, civil society members, youth and students, among others, were present on the occasion.
- DC Bandipora reviews Muharram arrangements at Sumbal
BANDIPORA: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Shakeel ul Rehman today reviewed Muharram arrangements in a meeting held at Dak Bungalow, Irrigation Colony, Sumbal. The meeting held threadbare discussions regarding various arrangements to be put in place for the smooth observance of the upcoming Muharram ul Haraam in the district.
On the occasion, public delegations led by Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi, Representative of Anjumane Sharie Shiyaan J&K, presented various issues before the Deputy Commissioner and sought their resolution for smooth observations. The delegations raised the issues of uninterrupted drinking water, power supply, essential medical supplies, firewood, ration and other essentials, particularly during the auspicious days.
After patiently listening to the demands and issues of the public, the DC passed on spot directions to the officers from the line departments to work in coordination and make adequate arrangements well in time in all the localities during the Muharram days. He emphasised the need for all the concerned line departments to sensitize their field staff for ensuring the smooth and hassle-free observance of Muharram related rituals.
The DC said that the District Administration has devised a proper plan to ensure all religious gatherings and processions are held smoothly and peacefully. Among others, the meeting was also attended by SDM Sumbal, Aamir Choudhary; Tehsildar Sumbal, ExEn R&B, officers of Subdivisional Administration, representatives of various religious associations, and other concerned.
- DC Jammu chairs Block Diwas at Dansal
JAMMU: Deputy Commissioner, Sachin Kumar Vaishya chaired a Block Diwas public meeting at block headquarters in Dansal. The meeting was attended by ADDC Sher Singh, DDC Member, other officers, public representatives and locals.
During the meeting, various local issues and requests were raised, particularly concerning power and water supply, and roads. The DC noted all concerns and directed the concerned officers to ensure immediate attention and timely resolution. He assured that all genuine issues would be addressed, with many already in the planning phase. Additionally, instructions were issued for the swift execution and timely completion of road construction works.
Following the meeting, the DC inspected the Primary Health Centre Jindrah to assess its functioning. He also reviewed the ongoing Jal Jeevan Mission works in the district, specifically inspecting the Water Supply Schemes (WSS) at Hurlani and Kanyala Kah Pota. Instructions were issued to complete these schemes within the stipulated time frame by executing the remaining components.
- Weekly Block Diwas: DC listens to people’s issues at Nagseni; finalises Dual purpose Solar lights for 3 Panchayats
KISHTWAR: Deputy Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav today chaired a Public Grievances Redressal Camp, here at Block Headquarters Nagseni under the Weekly Block Diwas program.
The camp, besides aiming to address the grievances of the local populace, also observed the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2024 by flagging off the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Express in the presence of locals and district officers.
Besides scores of locals, the event saw the attendance of several key officials, including ACR Idrees Lone, Tehsildar Nagseni Rafie Naik, Dy. CEO Kishtwar Masood Qazi, ExEn Jal Shakti Sunil Sharma, ExEn PWD, ZEO Nagseni Nizam Uddin Din, TSWO Rajesh Sharma, along with other officers and officials from HEP projects.
The local delegations presented several demands seeking up-gradation of road, power, water, Education and Irrigation infrastructure. They also highlighted the need for expediting the ongoing works under the Rehabilitation and Resettlement (RR) Plan in the area.
Dr. Devansh Yadav assured the public that their genuine grievances would be addressed promptly, giving on-the-spot directions to the concerned officers for immediate action. He instructed the executing authorities to accelerate the developmental works under the RR Plan for the ongoing hydroelectric power projects.
He further directed for joint inspection of the ongoing Keru-Chicha Road project by revenue and PMGSY authorities under the supervision of Tehsildar Nagseni to remove bottlenecks and to ensure the timely submission of Plan for extending the Road under RR Plan.
Furthermore, Forest Department officials were directed to collaborate with the Rural Development Department (RDD) to expedite the disposal of timber applications for PMAY beneficiaries to ensure timely completion of houses under the scheme.
Addressing power issues, the DC finalised the funds amounting to Rs. 15 lakh under the RR Plan for the panchayats of Galhar, Chicha, and Piyas. He urged JPDCL and RDD Nagseni to submit a plan for Dual Purpose solar lights for these panchayats to address the issue of power supply.
Responding to other grievances, the DC addressed the repair issues of Kuhls from Naigarh to Bhagna C and Chicha and other areas, directing RDD to start the work promptly.
Regarding the repair and fencing of cremation grounds and graveyards, Dr. Yadav finalised the allocation of funds under the RR Plan, with RDD Nagseni tasked to submit plans within a week to start the work soon. Meanwhile, DC Kishtwar also visited the R&B Guest House and HS Pathernaki to review the progress of infrastructure development under the RR Plan.
Interacting with local farmers, Dr. Yadav encouraged them to leverage the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and adopt integrated farming to boost their income. He emphasized the horticultural potential of the area, advocating for the adoption of high-yield variety (HYV) plants and modern technology for enhanced production.
In alignment with the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Deputy Commissioner, along with district officers and locals, flagged off the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Van, aimed at raising awareness about drug abuse prevention. A pledge was administered to the participants, underscoring the day's theme.
The DC also distributed Prosthetic aids of the Social Welfare Department to Persons with Disabilities and called for a collective resolve to create a drug-free society, urging youth to stay away from substance abuse. The camp concluded with a commitment to address local grievances and enhance the public welfare system effectively.
- Series of events organized to observe Int’l Day Against Drug Abuse, Illicit Trafficking in Doda
- DC flags off awareness Van to spread mass awareness
DODA: The District Administration Doda organized Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan awareness rally and series of other activities here today to observe the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
An awareness van was flagged off by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Harvinder Singh in presence of ACR Sunil Kumar Bhutyal; DSWO, Tariq Parveaz Qazi; TSWO Babu Ram and officials of Social Welfare, Mission Vatsalya, Child Helpline, Palaash Parisha and other stakeholders.
The awareness rally was organized by the Department of Social Welfare in collaboration with the Education Department aiming to educate the youth in particular and the general population of Doda District about the harmful effects of drug abuse.
The DC emphasised the significance of community engagement and collaborative efforts in tackling drug abuse. He reaffirmed the Administration's commitment to fostering a healthier and safer environment through initiatives like the "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan."
On the sidelines of weekly Block Diwas at Panchayat Gajoth, the DC Doda initiated a signature campaign against the menace of drug abuse. Similarly, Higher Secondary School Doda, Gandoh, Bhaderwah, and other areas organized awareness rallies, painting exhibitions, and pledge ceremonies to mark the Day.
- SWD Udhampur organises series of events to observe Int'l day against Drug abuse, Illicit trafficking
UDHAMPUR: The Department of Social Welfare Udhampur, under the patronage of the District Administration, organized a two-day program to commemorate the International day against Drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The event was led by Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai and supervised by District Social Welfare Officer Kanika Gupta.
The concluding event held today, witnessed the presence of Joginder Singh Jasrotia as the chief guest, accompanied by Romesh Chander Mishra; DYSSO, Dr. Anil Saloch District Tuberculosis Officer; Sanjeet Baloria, Advocate DALSA. The event commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the dignitaries, symbolizing unity in the fight against drug abuse. Around 350 individuals including students attended the event held in the DC Office Udhampur.
Dr. Anil Saloch, District Tuberculosis Officer, emphasized the detrimental effects of drug consumption on life and advocated for a drug-free society. Advocate Sanjeet Baloria conducted a workshop highlighting the legal aspects of drugs on individuals and communities. A poignant play staged by artists Deepak and Satya Rishi at the DC Office addressed the issue of drug abuse, resonating with the audience.
Joginder Singh Jasrotia, in his address, stressed the value of life and urged attendees to refrain from drug use. He encouraged reporting any instances of drug consumption to the police or district administration. The Social Welfare Department facilitated a ceremony honoring the participants and winners of sports events organised yesterday.
The event underscored the commitment of the District administration to combat drug abuse and promote community health and well-being. Later in the day, a door to door awareness campaign was also organised across length and breadth of district Udhampur witnessing distribution of IEC material at public places and pasting of stickers of drug helpline no 14446 at all the government offices of district Udhampur.
- DC Udhampur holds public outreach Programme at far flung Ladda-B Panchayat
UDHAMPUR: Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, Saloni Rai today listened to people’s issues at the far flung Panchayat Ladda-B in Block Moungri. Swati Sheemar, IAS Probationer; Additional District Development Commissioner, Rajinder Singh; DDC Councillor, Jasvir Singh; Assistant Commissioner Development, Dr. Ranjeet Singh Kotwal; ex-PRIs; and a large number of residents from adjoining panchayats of Block Moungri attended the programme.
The locals raised several demands seeking road connectivity to the area, renovation of road from Kaithgali to Thathli, establishment of bank branch in the Pyt, release if pending material payments under the Saubhagya scheme, check on excessive PDD bills, construction of huts, adequate staff in educational and health institutions, and development of infrastructure like , circular and link roads and Panchayat Ghar buildings. Additionally, they demanded establishment of a Niabat at Ladda Panchayat-A and B, opening of ration depots, early completion of Panchayat Ghar building, and establishment of health centers and guest houses.
Interacting with the public, the DC stated that the Block Diwas program aims to take a firsthand appraisal of the public issues at the grassroots level. She emphasized that such platforms enable the District Administration to understand the multifaceted problems faced by the general public.
Responding to the public issues, the DC resolved the majority of grievances on the spot through the intervention of the concerned departments. The DC directed the officers to work with missionary zeal to resolve the issues of the people of the area. She also encouraged the officers to raise awareness among the public about income-generating and beneficiary-oriented schemes launched by the Government of India and the UT Government.
The DC informed the public about HADP and other schemes run by the government and urged them to come forward to avail the maximum benefits of these schemes. It was for the first time that a DC visited the panchayat and conducted a public outreach camp after travelling around 10 kilometer on foot to reach the venue. Several deputations met the DC en-route and presented a charter of demands.
- Power shutdown
JAMMU: Chief Engineer (Distribution), JPDCL Jammu has informed that the power supply to Potha, Lassana, Chatral, Mankote, Harni, MES Mendhar and adjoining areas will remain affected on June 28 from 9 am to 11 am.
Similarly, the power supply to Thatri, Saroor, Barshalla and adjoining areas will remain affected on June 28 from 6 am to 2 pm.
Likewise, the power supply to Jakyas, Chanyas, Batoli and adjoining areas will remain affected on June 29 from 6 am to 2 pm.
Similarly, the power supply to Rajpura, Dadkai and adjoining areas will remain affected on June 30 from 6 am to 2 pm.
Likewise, the power supply to Bakshi Nagar, Rajpura, Gurha, Rehari, Sarwal and adjoining areas will remain affected on June 29 from 6 am to 10 am.
Similarly, the power supply to Pancheri, Meer, Lander Meer Katti, Mongri and adjoining areas will remain affected on June 30 from 6 am to 11 am.
- Social Welfare Department Jammu leads anti-drug events in Maratha Basti
JAMMU: The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed today under the theme 'The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.' Organised by the Social Welfare Department under the aegis of district administration, the events emphasised the need for awareness, education and public engagement.
An awareness session at RSETI Jammu saw active participation from local youth. A notable highlight was the nukkad natak in Maratha Basti near Jammu Railway Station, attended by over 150 slum dwellers. District Social Welfare Officer Mamta Rajput, the chief guest, stressed the importance of social support in combating drug abuse. "Community involvement is crucial in our fight against drug abuse and trafficking," she remarked.
In Maratha Mohalla, a doctor from the Government Psychiatric Hospital's drug de-addiction center led a session on the harmful effects of drug abuse and the available interventions. Additionally, a painting competition in Child Care Institutions (Palaash and Parisha) engaged young participants in expressing their views on prevention and recovery through art.