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JAMMU: The Fire and Emergency Services Department today observed Fire Service Day, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. A solemn ceremony was held here at Fire & Emergency Services Headquarters Gandhi Nagar, where officers and jawans paid homage to the martyrs of the 1944 Bombay Dock Explosion and reaffirmed their commitment to public safety.  

The observance began with a solemn wreath laying ceremony at the Martyrs’ Memorial, where the Director of Fire and Emergency Services, along with senior officers and jawans, paid floral tributes to the brave firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. Two minutes silence was observed in their honour, and the ceremonial salute was offered as a mark of respect. The event served as a poignant reminder of the selfless courage and sacrifice made by fire service personnel in protecting lives and property, often at great personal risk.

Speaking on the occasion, the Director of Fire and Emergency Services J&K (ADGP) Alok Kumar highlighted the department’s growing capabilities, rapid response readiness, and ongoing modernization efforts. “We are proud to say that our force is not only ready for prompt and quick response in case of any emergency with advanced equipment and training but also deeply committed to promote a culture of fire safety across all sectors of society,” the Director stated.

Alok Kumar further highlighted the department’s focused initiative regarding fire safety public awareness programmes being conducted regularly and continuously in educational, healthcare institutions, industrial units and other establishments under “Har Ghar Fire Fighter” programme since August 2022 throughout the UT of J&K.

The programmes aim to educate students, teachers, medical staff, and support personnel on fire prevention, safe evacuation procedures, and first aid response actions in case of a fire to act as first responders in case of domestic fires. The Director informed that under this programme the department, upto ending March 2025, has covered 3949 educational institutions, 1057 health institutions, 2555 other establishments by conducting 7551 public awareness programmes in which 8.23 lac persons have been given training of fire prevention, protection and first aid firefighting. 

This year’s theme, “Unite to Ignite a Fire Safe India,” emphasizes collective responsibility and community involvement in fire prevention. As part of the Fire Service Week (14–20 April), the department launched several public engagement initiatives, including, the release of a fire safety documentary showcasing real-life firefighting missions and the role of emergency services, release of posters, banners and handbills for public awareness,   action plan for   awareness lectures, essay writing, painting competitions, health checkups for jawans and public and medical first aid training programme.

The Director urged citizens to partner with the department in building a fire-safe India by practicing basic safety measures, reporting hazards promptly, and participating in awareness activities. “Our strength lies in unity. Together, we can prevent fires before they start,” he added. The Fire and Emergency Services remains committed to its mission—to save lives, protect property, and serve with honour under the motto “We Serve to SAVE”. The Fire Service Day was also observed at Fire & Emergency Range Headquarters Srinagar and all Command /District Headquarters where all the Command Officers presided over the function and paid rich floral tributes to the martyrs.

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• Discusses comprehensive and structured program for promoting healthy lifestyle and improving liver health
• Dr Shiv Kumar Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences shared his expert insights

JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today interacted with the Heads of Government Medical Colleges, and Medical Institutions from across J&K at Raj Bhawan. On the occasion, Dr Shiv Kumar Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences shared his expert insights on proactive strategies and adopting a healthy lifestyle to improve liver health.

The Lieutenant Governor advised all the stakeholders to work in close coordination with Dr Shiv Kumar Sarin along with the Government Medical Colleges, AIIMS, SKIMS and other medical institutions of the UT to devise a well-planned strategy for the prevention of liver-related diseases.

Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary, Health and Medical Education; Prof. Dr Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director, AIIMS Jammu; Principals, HoDs and Medical Superintendents from Government Medical Colleges, SKIMS, and other medical institutions and senior officials of Health and Medical Education department, attended the meeting, in person and through virtual mode.

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• Lieutenant Governor attends the historic ‘Tawi Aarti’ at Tawi Riverfront in Jammu
• The living tradition in the city of temples offers a powerful spiritual experience: LG Sinha
• Tawi river is connected to the soul of Jammu and its spiritual journey and this river is the living form of our consciousness and thoughts: LG
• It is a cultural idea and spiritual flow and with beginning of Aarti at Tawi Riverfront, efforts are being made to awaken our ancient culture: LG
• Tawi Aarti, the sacred ceremony, is the medium to express our ancient values and ideals on the banks of this sacred river. Today's grand Aarti has started a new era: LG Sinha
• Administration and People need to commit to restore the sacred Tawi river. Concerted efforts are required to reduce pollution and promote responsible practices to make Tawi riverfront a unique destination: LG
• Once all the projects related to Tawi riverfront are complete, it will offer a unique and charming experience for the residents and travellers: Lieutenant Governor
• Be proud of your city. The prerequisite for making a city beautiful is that the citizens should have unwavering pride and love for their city: LG tells Jammu residents
• Jammu Smart City Limited has also done many incredible works in Jammu in the last few years. Whether it’s the Heritage Trail project in the old city area near Raghunath Bazaar, the upgradation of Residency Road, or the Complete Street Development in Gandhi Nagar—all these projects are excellent examples of how various zones have been revitalized into vibrant, accessible, and people-friendly spaces: LG

JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today attended the ‘Tawi Aarti’ and ‘Baisakhi Mela’ at Tawi Riverfront Jammu.  The Lieutenant Governor sought the blessings of Suryaputri River Tawi and prayed for peace, prosperity, happiness and well-being of all. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor extended his felicitations to the Jammu Municipal Corporation, Jammu Smart City Limited, Shri Raghunathji Corridor Vikas Council, Tourism Department, Acharyas, Archakas, young volunteers, and everyone associated with the grand event.

The Lieutenant Governor said, the ceremonial worship 'Tawi Aarti' expressing gratitude and reverence on the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi is truly a divine spectacle. He said, the living tradition in the city of temples offers a powerful spiritual experience. “Tawi river is connected to the soul of Jammu and its spiritual journey and this river is the living form of our consciousness and thoughts. It is a cultural idea and spiritual flow and with the beginning of Aarti at Tawi Riverfront, efforts are being made to awaken our ancient culture.

Tawi Aarti, the sacred ceremony, is the medium to express our ancient values and ideals on the banks of this sacred river. Today's grand Aarti has started a new era,” the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor called for concerted efforts to reduce pollution and promote responsible practices to make Tawi riverfront a unique destination. “Administration and People need to commit to restore the sacred Tawi river,” he said.

“Be proud of your city. The prerequisite for making a city beautiful is that the citizens should have unwavering pride and love for their city,” the Lieutenant Governor told the residents of Jammu. The Lieutenant Governor reiterated that, once all the projects related to Tawi riverfront are complete, it will offer a unique and charming experience for the residents and travellers.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also spoke on the incredible works done by Jammu Smart City Limited in Jammu in the last few years. Whether it is the Heritage Trail project in the old city area near Raghunath Bazaar, the upgradation of Residency Road, or the Complete Street Development in Gandhi Nagar—all these projects are excellent examples of how various zones have been revitalized into vibrant, accessible, and people-friendly spaces, he added.

“We have also seen a deep commitment to the environment. Over five hectares of green spaces have been developed at locations like Panama Chowk, Balidan Stambh, near Jammu University, and across Ranbir Canal from BSF Paloura up to Pawan Ice Cream, among others. Public art like 3D murals, wall paintings, sculptures, etc.—is adding color and life to our cityscape, giving Jammu a personality that’s unique and proud.

Our public transport has taken a big leap too—with 100 electric AC buses now running within and between major towns of Jammu province. These buses are equipped with live tracking, CCTV cameras, and digital payment options, making commuting cleaner, safer, and more convenient for everyone. Our Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) and Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) are ensuring that the city runs more efficiently and with safety regularly on a daily basis, the Lieutenant Governor further said.

The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised the vital role of common citizens in the smooth operation of the city and to the creation of clean and vibrant public spaces. “Smart City is not just about technology; it’s about people. It’s about improving daily life, creating opportunities, and building a city we are all proud to live in. I want to take a moment to appreciate the incredible efforts of the JSCL team including the engineers, planners, workers on the ground, and most importantly, you—the people of Jammu. Your support, patience, and faith in this mission have made all this possible.

I assure you, the government will continue to stand firmly behind such development efforts. Our vision is clear—to make Jammu not just smart, but safe, green, inclusive, and future-ready. Let’s keep working together. Let’s keep moving forward. Because the Jammu we are building today is the legacy we will leave for generations to come,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

Sh Jugal Kishore Sharma and Er. Gulam Ali Khatana - Members of Parliament; Shri Satish Sharma, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs; Shri Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Shri Devansh Yadav, Municipal Commissioner Jammu and CEO of Jammu Smart City Limited; Shri Rajesh Gupta, Chairman Shri Raghunathji Corridor Vikas Council; heads of various religious and business associations, members of civil society groups, Acharyas and Archakas were present.

Members of Legislative Assembly; Administrative Secretaries; Deputy Commissioner Jammu and senior officials of Civil and Police Administration and people from all walks of life also took part in the Tawi Aarti.

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• Dr. Nagendra Singh, Chairman of Bhartiya Shiksha Board, assures full support to J&K’s Private Education Sector amid growing challenges
• “Innovation must begin in classrooms”: IIT-Hyderabad Director Prof. B. S. Murty calls for education reform
• PSAJK President seeks alternative affiliations with National Boards amid J&K Board's growing hurdles and roadblocks
• “No jobs is a myth—Hardworking students will always find opportunities”; says KU Register Prof. Naseer Iqbal
• “Kashmir’s youth can lead globally—If education evolves,” says International Award-Winning Educator Ashok Kumar

SRINAGAR: A grand education conference held at Crescent Public School, Naseem Bagh, Srinagar, on the theme of “Educational Challenges in Jammu & Kashmir and the Probable Way Out.” The event brought together some of the most respected names in education, including national-level experts, university officials, environmental activists and representatives of private schools from across Jammu & Kashmir.

The education conference commenced with a deeply moving ceremony that left a lasting impression on every attendee. The distinguished guests were received with utmost warmth, greeted by vibrant flower bouquets. Each guest was also draped in exquisite Kashmiri shawls—traditional emblems of honor, cultural heritage and the unparalleled hospitality that defines the region. This gracious and symbolic gesture not only highlighted the significance of the occasion but also set the tone for the event—one of unity, respect and shared purpose.

The conference was enriched by the presence of distinguished educators and experts, including: Dr. Nagendra Prasad Singh (IAS), Chairman, Bhartiya Shiksha Board,  Prof. B. S. Murty, Director, IIT Hyderabad,  Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar, University of Kashmir, Srinagar;  Ashok Kumar Thakur, International award-winning educationist & Chairman, Muni International School, New Delhi,  Prof. M. A. Shah, NIT Srinagar.

The conference also witnessed participation from several prominent edu leaders, including G. N. Var, State President, PSAJK; Faisal Islam Mir, General Secretary ; Shah Gulzar, Chief Organiser, PSAJK; Ishrat Tanki, President, Womens' Wing, PSAJK; Majid Bhat, Divisional Organiser, Central Kashmir; Bilal Bhat, District President Srinagar; Tahir Wagay, District Secretary; Syed Rufaida Soliha, PSAJK PRO; Er Muhammad Shukiel Dar, Chairman  & Er Muhammad Shahid Dar, Director, Crescent Public School, Srinagar; Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo, Chairman, Bilaliya Educational Institute, M. Y. Wani, Chairman, Green Valley Educational Institute and  Senior edu leader Mushtaq Canny; Farooq Fazili, Chairman, Dolphin International School, Pulwama were among others. The audience comprised of a large gathering of educational leaders, School Chairpersons, school principals, teachers, students and intellectuals.

Dr. Nagendra Singh (IAS), Chairman of the Bhartiya Shiksha Board (BSB), in his speech, said, “The Bhartiya Shiksha Board is a legally recognized national education board. It aims to promote a truly Indian system of education, deeply rooted in our cultural and intellectual heritage. The Board is on par with the CBSE and various other state boards.”
Dr. Singh also stated that this marks the first time the Government of India has established a national education board through its own initiative. Kashmir has played a pivotal role in shaping India's identity. The rise of India is incomplete without acknowledging the rise of Kashmir — a land steeped in knowledge, service, and spiritual elevation. This region has given rise to some of the nation’s most distinguished and influential figures.

Regarding the concerns, problems, and grievances raised by the private schools of Jammu and Kashmir, he said, as a representative of the National School Board, “I assure you that I will examine each of them in detailed and work towards actionable solutions.” As a senior IAS officer with 34 years of experience, he further stated, “I assure you that I understand the policy and administrative challenges. Many misunderstandings arise from the way policies are framed and communicated. But I promise to do my utmost to work with you — as a team — to address these issues effectively.”

Prof. B. S. Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad, stated during his address at the conference, "India will truly become a Viksit Bharat when our education system empowers students not just to seek high-paying jobs, but to pursue meaningful innovation and contribute to nation-building across diverse fields. It is essential to instill a deep sense of national pride, interdisciplinary thinking and creative freedom from the school level itself."

Prof. Murty also emphasized the importance of early innovation and entrepreneurship, sharing that IIT Hyderabad allows even first-year students to take a semester break to work on their ideas and offers seed funding to support them. “With over 260 startups incubated and ₹1500 crores raised, we are witnessing how young minds, when given the right environment, can create scalable impact. We need to replicate this spirit of innovation and curiosity across all schools and colleges in the country.”

"If we truly empower our youth to think beyond marks and placements  to innovate, to create and to contribute meaningfully to the nation. we will not have to wait until 2047 to realize the dream of a developed India envisioned by Prime Minister. That transformation can begin today, in our classrooms, through a mindset shift that values purpose over paychecks, and nation-building over mere employment. The future of India lies in the hands of young minds who are free to imagine, empowered to act and inspired to serve," he concluded.

Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar, University of Kashmir, said, “The University is open to all. I encourage every student here to work hard, respect your teachers, parents and contribute meaningfully to society. Your dreams are valid and with dedication and discipline, you can achieve them and make your parents proud. The future of our nation rests with the younger generation—each one of you has a vital role to play.”

“Our University is always supportive of school children, especially those coming from far-flung areas. We welcome them to visit our departments, explore the libraries and engage with the academic environment. If ever you face any challenges or hurdles during such visits, don't hesitate to contact me personally—I will always be there to help. I want to reaffirm that the University of Kashmir stands open for all schools across the Valley. If we, as a university, do not take the lead in engaging with society, then who will? This university belongs to the students and my office door will always be open to you."

Prof Naseer also said that “We are here for a limited time. What we leave behind is not our possessions, but our contributions. Whether I am a teacher or an administrator, I must serve with dedication, because I won’t be here forever. That same truth applies to each one of you”. He also appealed to the students to not waste their  time instead they must Work hard and become a good citizens of the society. he advised students to make their parents proud and give back to them for all they have done for you. He also emphasized for the change inside the individuals itself.

G. N. Var, State President of PSAJK, stated, “In light of the persistent challenges created by the Jammu & Kashmir Board of School Education, including unnecessary hurdles, redundant NOCs, increased fees, the imposition of GST, and the unjust harassment of students under the pretext of late fees, PSAJK is seriously considering shifting its affiliation to other national education boards. Currently, hundreds of files related to registration and renewal are pending, and schools are being subjected to various unnecessary NOCs. These issues have been raised time and again and to date, no concrete policy has been adopted with regard to the private education sector.

Var also stated that the recent refusal by the J&K Board of School Education (JKBOSE) to allow students to appear in examinations due to minor technicalities, despite schools having complied with core requirements, reflects a deeply bureaucratic and insensitive approach. If the situation continues, we will have no choice but to seek affiliation with national boards such as the Bhartiya Shiksha Board and others. Our top priority is the future of our students, and on that, we cannot and will not compromise.”

Ashok Kumar Thakur, Chairman, Muni International School, New Delhi said that  “The idea of education must go beyond textbooks and exams. It must prepare students to be self-aware, independent thinkers, and change-makers in their communities. Kashmir’s youth is bright—they need the right platform and a compassionate, innovative system to shine globally.”

Prof. M. A. Shah, NIT Srinagar said that  “Kashmir always had a rich intellectual legacy but we must make science and technology accessible at the school level. We need to connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The future lies in critical thinking, creativity and collaboration.” Shah Gulzar, Chief Organiser, PSAJK, expressed profound gratitude, stating, “This conference represents a pivotal moment for private education sector in Jammu & Kashmir.

I sincerely thank every guest, educator and participant for their unwavering support for our students and schools. Though challenges lie ahead, our shared vision and collective resolve will pave the way for transformative change.” The conference concluded on a hopeful note — a collective commitment to reforming education system in Jammu & Kashmir with equity, innovation and empathy at its core.