SRINAGAR: After a winter vacation of nearly three months, schools across the Kashmir division reopened today, bringing life and energy back to classrooms. The first day witnessed a cheerful and vibrant atmosphere as students returned to their campuses with excitement and enthusiasm to resume academic activities. School campuses came alive as students reunited with their classmates and teachers after a long break.
At Crescent Public School, Naseem Bagh Srinagar, the reopening day was celebrated with warmth and enthusiasm. Teachers welcomed students at the school entrance, exchanging greetings and good wishes after the long winter break. Students, dressed neatly in their uniforms, looked delighted to reunite with their classmates and teachers.
The day began with the morning assembly, where students gathered in the school premises for prayers, motivational speeches. The assembly created a positive and disciplined start to the new academic session after the winter holidays. The pleasant weather and cheerful environment added to the joy of the occasion.
Teachers guided students to their classrooms and encouraged them to begin the new begining with dedication and goals. The school campus echoed with laughter and conversations as students shared their winter experiences with friends. A student from Class 5th said âI was very excited to come back to school today. I missed my friends and teachers a lot during the winter vacation.â
Class 8th student shared: âThe first day was very enjoyable. Meeting friends again and attending the assembly made me feel happy and motivated.â Another student from Class 10th added âReturning to school after a long break feels refreshing. We are ready to focus on our studies and upcoming examinations.â CPS Chairman, Er. Muhammad Shukiel Dar, expressed his happiness on the reopening of the school âIt is wonderful to see our students back on campus after the winter break. Schools are places of learning, growth, and character building. I wish all students a successful and productive academic session.â
Principal, Dr. Ehsan Abdullah, welcomed the students and encouraged them to work hard âThe reopening of school marks a new beginning for students. We encourage them to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to their studies while also participating in positive activities.â Vice Principal, Junaid-ul-Shabar Khan, also shared his thoughts âThe first day after winter vacations always brings fresh enthusiasm. We are happy to welcome our students back and look forward to a productive and inspiring academic journey together.â
Afshana Altaf, Head of the Department of Kindergarten, said, âSeeing our little students return to school after the long winter break is truly heartwarming. Their smiles, laughter and energy bring life and joy back to the campus. We look forward to a joyful year of learning, play and new discoveries together.â
Another teacher added âThe first day is always special. We try to make students feel comfortable and motivated so they can start the term positively.â The reopening of schools across Kashmir has brought renewed enthusiasm among students, teachers and parents, marking a hopeful start to the academic activities after the long winter pause.
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

I will always remember Dr. Priya Ranjan not only as the Chairman of JK Monitor, but as a mentor, guide and elder brother whose kindness profoundly shaped my life and work. Write a tribute at In Loving Memory · Dr. Priya Ranjan
When he appointed me Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor, he never treated me as an employee, but as a younger brother, offering warmth, trust, respect and invaluable guidance. I will always be grateful for his faith in me, his encouragement and the lessons he shared.
Dr. Ranjan was a rare and noble soulâhumble, compassionate, intellectually brilliant and always willing to help others. A visionary thinker, he believed in using knowledge and abilities to make a meaningful difference. His influence lives on through the people he guided, the work he inspired and the countless lives he touched.
For me, he will always be the elder brother who believed in me and guided me with affection. I will cherish his kindness and lessons forever. May his soul rest in eternal peace. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
(Ajmer Alam Wani)

