• Bill Seeking Ban on Alcohol in J&K to be Introduced in Assembly
  • PDP MLA from Kupwara, Fayaz Ahmad Mir, has submitted a Private Member’s Bill seeking a complete ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • The bill, set to be introduced in the upcoming budget session of the J&K Assembly, proposes prohibition on the advertisement, sale, purchase, consumption, and manufacture of alcoholic beverages in the Union Territory.
  • Mir warned that the rising alcohol consumption poses a serious threat to society, stressing the need for strict legislation to curb the trend. The bill also proposes harsh penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for violations.
National Luminaries and Local Leaders Unite at Srinagar Education Conference to Rethink J&K’s Learning Future

Grand Education Conference Held In Srinagar Unites National Thinkers & Regional Edu Leaders, With IIT-Hyderabad Director And BSB Chairman Among Key Luminaries

Published on April 13, 2025

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Srinagar | April 13, 2025 — In a powerful display of unity and purpose, Crescent Public School in Naseem Bagh, Srinagar, became the hub of educational discourse, as it hosted a prestigious conference under the theme “Educational Challenges in Jammu & Kashmir and the Probable Way Out.”

The event brought together an exceptional lineup of speakers, ranging from national-level experts and policymakers to prominent education leaders across Jammu & Kashmir. The gathering served as a collaborative platform to explore innovative pathways and policy reforms tailored to the region’s unique educational landscape.

Warm Reception Sets the Tone

The conference opened with a dignified welcome ceremony. Distinguished guests were honored with traditional Kashmiri shawls and flower bouquets—symbols of cultural pride and hospitality that underlined the significance of the occasion.

National Luminaries and Local Leaders Unite at Srinagar Education Conference to Rethink J&K’s Learning Future

Keynote Speeches from National Education Figures

Among the top speakers was Dr. Nagendra Singh (IAS), Chairman of the Bhartiya Shiksha Board (BSB), who reaffirmed the Board’s legal and national recognition. He pledged unwavering support to private schools in J&K, promising to review grievances and facilitate systemic solutions. Highlighting Kashmir’s historical intellectual contributions, he stated, “The rise of India is incomplete without acknowledging the rise of Kashmir.”

Prof. B. S. Murty, Director of IIT-Hyderabad, called for a ground-up transformation in the education system, starting from schools. “Real development begins in classrooms. We must prioritize innovation and national purpose over mere academic achievement,” he said. Prof. Murty also shared insights on IIT-Hyderabad’s support for student entrepreneurship and innovation from the first year itself.

Voices from Kashmir’s Leading Institutions

Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar of the University of Kashmir, inspired the audience by advocating for hard work, discipline, and societal contribution. He reassured students of the University’s open-door policy and urged them to make the most of educational opportunities.

G. N. Var, President of the Private Schools Association of J&K (PSAJK), raised critical concerns regarding the challenges posed by the J&K Board of School Education. These include delayed approvals, redundant NOCs, and steep fees. He signaled a potential shift toward national boards like BSB to safeguard students’ futures.

International educator Ashok Kumar Thakur, Chairman of Muni International School, emphasized the need to go beyond conventional learning and equip students to become confident, independent thinkers and leaders.

Scientific Perspective and Policy Appeal

Prof. M. A. Shah from NIT Srinagar stressed integrating science with daily learning and encouraged nurturing creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking at the school level.

Shah Gulzar, PSAJK’s Chief Organiser, closed the conference by thanking the dignitaries and reaffirming the sector’s shared vision for a more equitable, innovative, and compassionate educational framework in J&K.

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  • Bill Seeking Ban on Alcohol in J&K to be Introduced in Assembly
  • PDP MLA from Kupwara, Fayaz Ahmad Mir, has submitted a Private Member’s Bill seeking a complete ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • The bill, set to be introduced in the upcoming budget session of the J&K Assembly, proposes prohibition on the advertisement, sale, purchase, consumption, and manufacture of alcoholic beverages in the Union Territory.
  • Mir warned that the rising alcohol consumption poses a serious threat to society, stressing the need for strict legislation to curb the trend. The bill also proposes harsh penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for violations.