JAMMU: In her continued efforts towards ensuring transparent governance and prompt grievance redressal of public centric issues, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, is engaging with scores of public delegations, individuals on daily basis at Civil Secretariat. The initiative has drawn widespread appreciation from public as scores of delegations, civil society members and individuals from various districts of Jammu and Kashmir call on the Minister to share their pressing concerns, development needs and welfare issues.
The Minister, who is holding crucial portfolios of Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, School Education and Higher Education departments, during these interactions issues on the spot directions to the concerned departments for necessary action on the grievances raised. While engaging with these public delegations and individuals, Sakeena Itoo reaffirmed the commitment of government to grassroots governance. “Public Darbars are a bridge between the administration and the people. It is our duty to ensure every voice is heard and genuine concerns are addressed promptly”, she said.
She highlighted that this daily outreach program is a model of proactive administration and people-first governance, which is core idea of Omar Abdullah led government. The Minister further said that all the departmental heads have been directed to maintain responsiveness towards public issues and ensure timely follow-ups on the matters raised during these sessions.
JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today launched the online portal of Pediatric Education Network, a free-to-access digital platform curated and developed by eminent Pediatrician and Academician, Dr Suraj Gupte. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated Dr Suraj Gupte and everyone associated with the initiative, which aims to enhance Pediatric healthcare education and empower practitioners, medical professionals, students, and institutions with credible and up-to-date resources.
Pediatric Education Network is a comprehensive, user-friendly portal designed to serve as a centralized hub for the knowledge of child health. It features a wealth of resources including lectures, clinical guidelines, case studies, interactive modules, and expert insights— a ‘free to access’ feature for all medical professionals, students, and institutions. The portal https://drsurajgupte.com/ seeks to bridge geographical and academic gaps in Pediatric education.
The launch ceremony at Raj Bhawan was attended by several leading healthcare professionals, former Professors, senior Pediatricians and prominent citizens including Dr Sanjeev K Digra; Dr Ashok Gupta, Dr Ghanshyam Saini, Dr Sunil Dutt Sharma, Dr Kewal Samnotra and Dr Gotam Goel; Shri Rakesh Gupta, former President CCI Jammu; and Shri Subhash Gupte, Smt Shamma Bakshi, Shri Rajendra Gupte and Shri Robin Bakshi - members of Pediatric Education Network Foundation.
JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu has achieved a significant academic milestone with its flagship MBA program officially accepted into the prestigious University Affiliation Program (UAP) of the CFA Institute, USA.
This collaboration is aimed at integrating the CFA Program’s Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) into IIM Jammu’s curriculum, thereby reinforcing the institute’s commitment to delivering globally relevant education in finance and investment management. The affiliation will provide students access to the CFA Institute’s learning ecosystem, including exclusive scholarships, preparatory resources, and industry-aligned content.
The CFA Institute, globally recognized for setting high standards in investment education, acknowledges academic institutions that embed a substantial portion of the CFA Program curriculum into their coursework. The partnership is expected to significantly benefit students in terms of career readiness, placements, and global recognition in roles such as investment management, equity research, portfolio analysis, and corporate finance.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, noted that the affiliation is a testament to the institute’s commitment to academic excellence and global standards. He emphasized that the recognition aligns perfectly with IIM Jammu’s vision of producing future-ready leaders equipped with world-class knowledge in finance and investment and stated that it will open up new opportunities for our students.
Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu, stated that the collaboration with the CFA Institute will further enhance the institute’s curriculum, bridge academia-industry gaps, and equip students with specialized skills sought after in the global financial sector.
Through this strategic affiliation, IIM Jammu joins a select group of elite institutions worldwide recognized by the CFA Institute for academic rigor and curriculum alignment with the evolving needs of the investment profession. This affiliation program serves as a testament to potential students, companies, and all stakeholders that the MBA curriculum at IIM Jammu adheres to international professional practices. Dr. Praveen Kumar, Assistant Professor, Finance and Accounting is the principle contact person at IIM Jammu who serves as the primary point of contact for CFA Institute’s University Affiliation Program. The collaboration holds particular significance for IIM Jammu as it facilitates the integration of practical knowledge into its curriculum, offering unique insights into the global industry.
SRINAGAR: In a vibrant celebration of academic excellence, Aloha J&K hosted the 9th General Ability Test (GAT) Annual Awards Ceremony at Tagore Hall, Srinagar. The event was graced by renowned educationists, school heads, journalists and edu leaders from across Jammu and Kashmir.
The ceremony was attended by notable figures including internationally renowned educationist Syed Hyder; G. N. Var, President of the Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK); senior journalist and human resource trainer Mehmood ur Rashid; Mubashir Wafai, Chairman of Aloha J&K; Atif Chasti, CEO of Aloha J&K and several other dignitaries.
The event celebrated the top achievers of the 9th GAT, with awards including laptops, tablets, smart watches and a special educational tour to the Museum of the Future in Dubai for the top seven performers.
In his keynote address, Syed Hyder spoke about the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. “AI is not our enemy—it is a tool. The question isn’t whether it will change our lives—it already has. What we need to ask is: Are we preparing our children to become creators of AI or just consumers?” he asked. He emphasized the importance of strong foundational skills. “We must focus on building writing skills and critical thinking, so that we use AI as a tool for creativity rather than becoming overly reliant on it,” he said.
G. N. Var praised Aloha J&K for nurturing young talent and providing a strong academic platform. “We must follow the footsteps of saints like Shah-e-Hamdan (RA), who brought both spiritual and economic transformation to Kashmir. I dream of seeing Kashmir reclaim its position as a global center of learning, "he said. He also announced the launch of the Shah-e-Hamdan (RA) Talent Search Test to identify and support budding talent across the region.
Highlighting the evolving educational landscape, Mehmood ur Rashid emphasized the need for practical and skill-based learning. “In today’s AI-driven world, we must shift from rote learning to real-world skills. Quality education must be accessible to all students, not just a privileged few,” he noted.
Mubashir Wafai stressed the importance of guiding students from the primary level. “Our focus is on young students across Kashmir, ensuring they are well-prepared before reaching Class 10th. Many students struggle with career direction later on. Our aim is to support them early through structured General Ability Tests (GAT),” he said.
He added, "Opportunities like awards, gadgets and the Dubai tour motivate children and boost their confidence. But our true goal is to build a strong foundation for lifelong success.” Atif Chasti, the driving force behind the GAT initiative, shared his pride in its consistent success He said “GAT is not just an exam — it’s a movement to recognize and uplift talent across Jammu and Kashmir. From registration to the awards ceremony, we strive for transparency and impact. I’m deeply proud of the team that brings this vision to life year after year.”
The most awaited moment of the event was the prize distribution, where top achievers were celebrated for their outstanding performance: Darakshaan Nazir(Rafiabad Public School); Syedah Nimat Fatimah (Foundation World School); Mariya (RP Anantnag); Haya Athar (Al Noor Model School); Zuha Noor(Alchemy Public School); Zeeba Firdous (SRM Welkin Higher Secondary School); Mohd Aseeb Wani (Faiz-e-Aam). These students will be taken on a special educational tour to the Dubai Museum.
Second Position (Laptop Awards): Maliha Sareer (SRM Welkin); Mujtaba Tariq (Lucent Global); Anam (RPNagbal); Bilquees Nazir (SRM Welkin); Mustafa Bilal (New Era Day Boarding); Tabinda Bashir (SRM Welkin). Third Position (Tablet Awards): Zuha Safwat Sheikh (Govt. Hr. Sec. School BK Pora); Shah Midhat (Alchemy Public School); Rayan Amir (Crescent Public School); Annum Ul Fatimah (Whiz Kids School); Misbah Bint Nazir (Ayesha Ali Academy); Mehreen Mushtaq (Dr. AGMS City School, Nowgam).
Other Notable Achievers: Angbeen Malik (Whiz Kids), Mohammad Basit (Tyndale Biscoe), Maira Firdous (SRM Welkin),Umaida Manzoor (Al Amaan Institute), Anabia Feroz (Imperial Convent), Mohammad Kamil Masoodi (Green Valley), Yasoob Ali Baba (Doon International), Hadiya Rifat (Imperial Convent), Sadiya Wani (Al Noor), Zehan Maqbool Wani (Summer Heavens), Aaizah Maryam (Mallinson), Shah Waris Iqbal (DPS Sheikhpora), Aaesha(Green Valley), Sanya Mir (KPS Unisoo), Salib Ashaq Jandoo (RP Anantnag), Ifham Bashir (KPS Kupwara), Madiha Shabir (RP Anantnag), Aairah Batool (SRM Welkin),Sania Rashid (SRM Welkin), Nazeeefa Wani (Peace School Nagam Budgam), Zaid Nisar (Birla Open Minds International).
The event also marked the official launch of the 10th General Ability Test (GAT)by top dignitaries, school heads and franchise representatives of Aloha J&K, reinforcing the organization’s mission to promote academic excellence across the region. The entire program was warmly hosted by Qazi Amaar, whose engaging presence and heartfelt words kept the audience connected throughout the ceremony.
At the conclusion of the event, he expressed his sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to its success.“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our dignitaries, special guests, respected school heads, dear students, supportive parents, media professionals and our hardworking organizing team. This success belongs to all of us. Thank you to everyone who made this event a memorable and meaningful one. It was truly an honor to be your host today.”
UDHAMPUR: A vibrant cultural celebration marked the second day of the historic Devika Baisakhi Mela, held on the sacred banks of the Devika rivulet in Udhampur town. The District Centre of Department of Information and Public Relations organized a mega cultural programme that enthralled the audience with scintillating performances showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
DDC Member Panchari Jasvir Singh graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Rajinder Digra, District Information Officer and Chief Executive Officer, Municipal Council Udhampur was the guest of honour. Swatantra Dev Kotwal, a Civil Defence Volunteer and noted social activist, attended as the special guest.
A large number of people from all walks of life gathered to witness the cultural bonanza. The audience was treated to captivating Dogri music and folk dances performed by local artists and enthusiastic students. The performances received thunderous applause and were highly appreciated by one and all.
Thousands of visitors and devotees from within and outside the district thronged the Devika Ghat to take a holy dip in the sacred river, continuing the age-old spiritual tradition associated with the Baisakhi festival.
Adding to the festive spirit, numerous temporary stalls offering sweets, toys and accessories witnessed heavy footfall, making the mela a lively and joyful experience for visitors of all ages.
The event was attended by the Officer/Official of the Information Department which includes Jiwan Singh, Rajesh Gupta, Amit Kumar, Rakesh Kumar, Abhishek Gupta, Aqib Hussain, Vijay Kumar besides a large number of prominent citizens.
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