Srinagar, June 21: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Sunday celebrated the 12th International Day of Yoga with great zeal and enthusiasm, with students, faculty members, and staff participating in large numbers to promote physical fitness, mental well-being, and holistic wellness.

The event was organized by the Institute’s Yoga Centre in collaboration with the NCC Unit, NSS, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) Cell, and Sports Club, underscoring NIT Srinagar’s commitment to fostering a healthy and balanced lifestyle among its academic community.

The programme was attended by Dr. Yashwant Mehta, Dean Planning & Development and Head of Yoga Centre; Lt. Dr. Nitika Kundan, ANO NCC Unit; Dr. Jitendra Gujjar, NSS Officer; Dr. Pramod Kumar Yadav, In-charge EBSB Cell; and Dr. Manoj Kumar, In-charge Sports Club, Dr Vijay Kumar, Assistant Professor Physics, besides faculty members, research scholars, students, and administrative staff.

In his message, Director, NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia highlighted the importance of yoga in modern life, describing it as a transformative practice that enhances physical health, mental clarity, and emotional resilience.

“Yoga is much more than physical exercise; it is a way of life that nurtures discipline, inner peace, and overall well-being. Embracing yoga as a daily habit can help us achieve balance and lead healthier lives,” he said.

The main celebration was held at the Common Hall from 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM, where over 50 participants, including students, PhD scholars, NCC and NSS volunteers, actively took part in the session.

The programme began with an introduction to the significance of International Yoga Day and this year’s theme was  “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”reflects the growing global recognition of yoga as a holistic approach to promoting physical, mental and emotional well-being. Rooted in India’s ancient wisdom and embraced across continents, yoga has emerged as a trusted pathway to healthy and active living.

Certified yoga trainers including Mr. Abhishek and Mrs. Sanju led participants through a series of yoga asanas, pranayama, and guided meditation exercises, focusing on flexibility, breathing techniques, mindfulness, and stress management.

In his message, Registrar Prof. Atikur Rahman said yoga continues to remain a timeless practice that helps individuals build resilience and maintain wellness in today’s fast-paced world.

He said that as India leads global celebrations of International Yoga Day, institutions like NIT Srinagar play an important role in spreading awareness about preventive healthcare and sustainable well-being.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Yashwant Mehta said yoga is a powerful medium to build a healthier society and cultivate mental peace amid the pressures of modern life.

He said regular yoga practice helps improve concentration, emotional stability, and physical endurance, making it especially relevant for students and young professionals. He encouraged participants to adopt yoga as an integral part of their daily routine.

The programme concluded with a collective pledge by participants to integrate yoga into their daily lives and inspire others to embrace a healthier, more mindful lifestyle.

As per media Chugh has been nominated as BJP’s candidate from Madhya Pradesh where his win is certain

Born in Amritsar, Punjab, Chugh holds an MBA in Human Resources and began his political journey with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Over the years, he has emerged as a prominent figure in national politics.

He is credited with playing a crucial role in BJP’s 29-seat tally in the 2024 J&K Assembly elections.

The event was organised by the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar in collaboration with the Alumni Association, REC/NIT Srinagar.

The concluding session at the Golf Club Gulmarg witnessed enthusiastic participation from distinguished alumni, faculty members, administrators, and guests from across the country.

The event was hosted by alumnus and MLA Gulmarg, Er. Farooq Ahmad Shah, who welcomed the alumni fraternity and appreciated NIT Srinagar’s efforts to reconnect generations of graduates through a vibrant alumni platform.

Among those present were Babu Lal Juneja, Chairman, SKD University Rajasthan; Ashwani Kumar, Rajasthan; Social activist Tasneem Akhter; Nouman Ajaz Wawa, Director, TRM Institute; Er. Ambreena Anjum, Superintendent Engineer, Jal Shakti Department; Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi (University of WathHarbor), CEO Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) Tariq Hussain Naik (JKAS), and G.N. Var, President, Private Schools Association J&K.

Addressing the gathering, MLA Gulmarg, Farooq Ahmad Shah (IAS Retd.) described NIT Srinagar as one of Northern India’s premier technical institutions that has produced generations of engineers, scientists, administrators, entrepreneurs and innovators who have made significant contributions to nation-building.

Calling SANGAM-3.0 more than an alumni reunion, MLA Shah said it was a celebration of shared experiences, lifelong friendships and collective commitment towards institutional growth.

“The values and relationships built during our days at REC Srinagar played a defining role in shaping our professional journeys,” he said.

He urged alumni to deepen their engagement with the institute through mentorship programmes, scholarships, research collaborations, industry partnerships and career opportunities for students.

MLA Gulmarg Shah also encouraged successful alumni and entrepreneurs to invest in higher education, skill development, and innovation initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir to generate employment and strengthen the region’s human resource base.

In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, said the successful conclusion of SANGAM-3.0 reflected the strength of the institute’s global alumni network.

“Our alumni are our greatest ambassadors. The overwhelming response witnessed during the last three days demonstrates the enduring bond that graduates continue to share with the institute. Their mentorship, expertise and support remain invaluable for the growth of NIT Srinagar,” he said.

Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman described SANGAM-3.0 as a landmark initiative aimed at building a sustainable and active alumni ecosystem.

“The reunion provided an excellent platform for alumni from different generations to reconnect, exchange ideas and contribute to the institute’s future growth. We witnessed meaningful interactions, academic discussions and several collaborative proposals during the programme,” he said.

President of the Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, Er. Malay Chatterjee said the event had further strengthened ties between alumni and the institute.

“The alumni community remains committed to supporting the institute through student mentoring, industry linkages, innovation support and creating opportunities for young graduates. SANGAM-3.0 has opened new avenues for meaningful engagement,” he said.

Dean Alumni and International Affairs Prof. M.A. Shah said the reunion successfully reconnected alumni with their departments, faculty members and fellow graduates while inspiring students through interactions with accomplished professionals and administrators.

“Several alumni have expressed their willingness to support the institute in internships, placements, entrepreneurship, innovation, research collaborations and student mentoring. Such partnerships will significantly benefit both the institution and its students,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, G.N. Var lauded NIT Srinagar for nurturing a strong alumni culture and creating a platform that promotes knowledge-sharing, collaboration and institutional development.

A special presentation was delivered by Dr. Mehboob Makhdoomi, who highlighted the need to expand quality higher education opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir.

He briefed participants about the proposed University of WathHarbor, envisioned as a future-ready institution focusing on innovation, research, skill development, entrepreneurship and industry-academia collaboration.

During the Gulmarg session, alumni shared memories of their student life at REC/NIT Srinagar and appreciated the institute’s transformation in academics, infrastructure, research and innovation over the years.

Several participants emphasized the need for sustained collaboration between the institute and its graduates to strengthen academic excellence, industry linkages and global outreach initiatives.

The organising team included Alumni Association office-bearers: Vice President Er. Sayed Parvez Qalandar, General Secretary Er. Irfan Bashir Ashai, Secretary, Dr. Fayaz Ahmad Sofi, Additional Secretaries, Er. Muzaffar Ahmad Beigh, Er. Irfan Shafi Parray and Er. Farhan Manzoor, Joint Secretaries Dr. Sajad Hussain Din, Er. Toyiba, Dr. Mohd Hanief Dar, and Treasurer Dr. Sajad Ahmad Mir.

The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Associate Dean Alumni and International Affairs Dr. H.S. Pali, who expressed gratitude to the Director, Registrar, Dean Alumni and International Affairs, distinguished alumni, faculty members, coordinators, volunteers, student teams and participants for contributing to the success of SANGAM-3.0.

Dr. Pali also acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Vijay Kumar, Dr. Dinesh Rajendran, Dr. Iqra, Dr. Sumaria Jan, Anchor Sana Showkat, the technical and photography teams, volunteers, supporting staff, and members of the Alumni Association for their dedication throughout the three-day event.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an official event in Pampore, the Chief Minister said the government had only invited public feedback on a proposal and no final decision had been approved.

“There is no question of dropping Urdu. People should not spread lies. It is unfortunate that some cannot distinguish between seeking feedback and taking a decision,” Abdullah said as per KNS.

He added that critics had failed to produce any official order indicating the removal of Urdu. “What they are referring to is merely a communication inviting public comments. Misrepresenting that as a final decision is misleading,” he said.

Referring to PDP leader Iltija Mufti, Abdullah remarked that the issue was being unnecessarily politicised.

“Even educated individuals should understand the difference between a proposal under consideration and an approved decision. The file is still under review, and I have neither cleared it nor intend to do so,” he said.

The Chief Minister maintained that seeking public opinion is part of a democratic process and does not imply implementation. “Departments may send proposals, but it is the government’s responsibility to evaluate them. This matter is still under consideration,” he said.

Hitting out at the PDP, Abdullah alleged that the party was attempting to divert attention by raising the issue. He also referred to its past political positions, claiming it had supported the BJP during Rajya Sabha elections and was now resorting to “false narratives” to regain relevance.

“The attempt is to create confusion among people by focusing on emotive issues like Urdu instead of engaging constructively,” he added. (KNS)

The event was spearheaded by the College Wellbeing and Anti-Substance Cell in collaboration with the Cultural Activities Committee.

The event was graced by the Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Huda Galzai, who highlighted the powerful correlation between art and de-addiction. She noted that creative expression serves as a vital therapeutic tool for channeling youth energy away from destructive habits and toward constructive growth.

Dr.Nuzhat Jan, Program Coordinator, emphasized the campaign’s strategic role in sensitizing students and using visual media to advocate for a drug-free lifestyle. Dr.Asmat Ara, Convenor, Cultural Activities Committee, remarked that the competition provided a significant “energy boost” to the college’s cultural spirit.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from students and faculty members. Participants used their canvases to depict the journey from the darkness of substance abuse to the light of recovery.

Based on artistic merit and thematic relevance, Madina, Maseer Farooq and InshaReshi were declared Ist, 2nd and 3rd position holders respectively.

The program concluded with a collective pledge to eradicate the menace of substance abuse, reinforcing the college’s unwavering commitment to the national mission of a healthy, addiction-free India.

The police said the searches were carried out in pursuance of a warrant issued by the Special court designated under the NIA Act, Srinagar, in FIR registered in 2023 under Sections 153-A, 505, 121, and 120-B IPC read with Sections 13 and 39 of the UA(P) Act of Police Station CI Kashmir.

They said acting on credible technical leads indicating the presence of suspicious digital signatures within the Central Jail premises, search operations were conducted across multiple blocks and barracks in close coordination with jail authorities.

“During the operation, incriminating material in the form of digital communication devices, having bearing on the investigation, was recovered and seized. These devices will be subjected to detailed forensic examination to unravel potential links and expose a larger terror network,” police said.

Simultaneously, the investigating agency is probing the apparent security breach that enabled the entry of such devices into the high-security prison.

“The role of facilitators and collaborators involved in this act will be thoroughly investigated and appropriate legal action will be taken,” police said.

The operation forms part of a sustained effort to uncover critical evidence, curb illicit activities, and prevent the misuse of communication devices within sensitive security zones, including prisons.

It also aims to dismantle the terror ecosystem in the union Territory by identifying and prosecuting terrorist associates and Over Ground Workers (OGWs) who aid and abet unlawful activities through such means, in accordance with the law of the land.

Srinagar, April 20: Commuters across the Kashmir Valley were left stranded on Monday as private transport services came to a standstill following a Valley-wide chakka jam called by transporters protesting the proposed expansion of Smart City electric bus services into other districts.

The shutdown, enforced by the All Jammu and Kashmir Transporters’ Welfare Association, led to the suspension of private buses, mini-buses, and inter-district cabs across major routes, severely disrupting daily life.

Thousands of passengers, including office-goers, students, patients, and daily wage earners, were seen waiting at bus stops and transit points from Srinagar to Kupwara, Baramulla, Pulwama, Anantnag, and other districts, with little or no transport available for hours.

Imtiyaz Ahmad Malik, a stranded commuter at Parimpora, said that he works in Sirnagar and had to return to Kupwara, but there is no bus or any cab available since morning.

“People are suffering. There are elderly passengers and students stuck here. The government should have made alternative arrangements before things reached this stage,” he said.

Another commuter, Shazia Bano, a college student from Mirgund Pattan, said that people are not against development, but why should common people suffer like this?”

“Both sides need to sit together and find a solution. We cannot be stuck like this every time there is a dispute,” she added.

Officials confirmed that while private transport remained off the roads, government buses and auto-rickshaws continued to operate in limited capacity, though they were unable to meet the heavy passenger demand.

In several areas, passengers reported overcrowding and increased waiting times, while some also complained of higher fares charged by available transport.

The protest has been triggered by the government’s proposal to expand the Smart City electric bus service beyond Srinagar and Jammu to other districts of the Union Territory. Transporters argue that the move threatens their livelihood and could render thousands of private operators jobless.

Shabir Ahmad Matta, president of the transporters’ association, told Kashmir Horizon that this was a peaceful but firm protest against the proposed expansion of Smart City buses into district routes.

“We are not against development, but we cannot allow policies that directly affect the livelihood of thousands of families. We have repeatedly requested the government to engage with us, but our concerns have not been addressed,” he said.

Matta urged Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene.

“We appeal to the highest authorities to stop this expansion plan. Recently, we were told that around 200 more buses are being considered for deployment. This will directly impact existing transport routes in places like Pulwama, Sopore and Kangan. Where will our people go if our work is taken away?” he asked.

Matta said they have made our position clear. If the government does not engage with us, we will have no option but to intensify our agitation.

“Transporters are open to dialogue but will not accept unilateral decisions. “We are ready for talks at any level, but our livelihood concerns must be respected,” he said.

According to transporters, the fear stems from the possibility that government-run electric buses, once expanded into rural and semi-urban routes, could replace existing private services that have operated for decades.

Meanwhile, transport officials, however, said the expansion is part of a broader mobility improvement plan under the Smart City initiative aimed at strengthening eco-friendly public transport and improving last-mile connectivity.

A senior transport department official, wishing anonymity, said the proposal is still under consideration and no final rollout has been implemented in district routes.

“The aim is to improve connectivity, especially in areas where transport availability is limited. However, stakeholder consultation is part of the process, and no decision will be taken without dialogue,” he said.

The Smart City electric bus service was launched in Jammu and Kashmir in November 2023, with 100 electric buses each introduced in Srinagar and Jammu, along with free travel for women.

Despite these assurances, the strike caused widespread disruption throughout the day. Government buses operated on select routes, but the absence of private transport, the backbone of inter-district mobility in Kashmir, left large sections of the population struggling to travel.

The green initiative was carried out under the aegis of the School Education Department, aimed at transforming the entire Union Territory into a greener and more sustainable Jammu & Kashmir.

The drive, held in Srinagar under the  supervision of Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Bhat, Chief Education Officer , Srinagar, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and school heads, reinforcing the commitment to building a greener and more sustainable Srinagar.

The programme commenced at the  Sri Pratap  Higher Secondary School  and later continued at Government Girls Higher Secondary School Kothibagh. CEO Srinagar along with

Anjum Raja, District Education Planning Officer , Srinagar; Aijaz Rishi, Principal, SP Higher Secondary School; Sameena Wani, Principal, GGHSS Kothibagh;  Showkat Hussain, Incharge, Samagra Shiksha and  Hina Amin, District Cultural Coordinator participated in the plantation drive.

During the drive, students were sensitised about the specific saplings being planted, including their ecological importance, proper planting techniques, and the ongoing care required for healthy growth.

Experts explained soil requirements, watering schedules, and protection measures to ensure the saplings thrive in Srinagar’s urban and semi-urban environment.

Addressing the gathering of young students,  Chief Education Officer, Srinagar, urged every student to adopt at least one sapling, water it regularly, protect it from damage, and watch it grow. He encouraged them to maintain a small diary entry documenting their tree’s progress, turning the activity into a meaningful personal and educational project.

“One tree can provide oxygen for four people, absorb harmful carbon dioxide, prevent soil erosion, and offer shelter to countless birds and insects,” said CEO Srinagar.

He further appealed to the students to transform this plantation drive into a widespread movement that extends from every school to every mohalla in Srinagar.

CEO Srinagar expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the students, Principals, Zonal Education Officers , Headmasters, educators  and students from both Government and Private Schools for their enthusiastic and overwhelming participation in the plantation drive.

Consequently, the potable water supply to several parts of Srinagar city and its adjoining areas shall remain disrupted for a period of 24 hours, commencing from 6:00 AM on Monday (April 06, 2026) to 6:00 AM on Tuesday (April 07, 2026).

The areas likely to be affected include Zakoora, Gulab Bagh, Habak, Naseem Bagh, Malla Bagh, Ahmad Nagar, Illahibagh, Buchpora, Soura, Anchar, Bohlochipora, Zoonimar, Nowshera, Bagh-i-Ali Mardan Khan, Sikhbagh, Zadibal, Hawal, Alamgari Bazar, Rajouri Kadal, Nallahmar, Nawakadal, Bohri Kadal, Nowhatta, Lal Bazar, Hazratbal, Sadribal, Karan Nagar, Kakasarai, Balgarden, Chattabal, Kawdara, Eidgah, Mahraj Gunj, Zaina Kadal, Saidpora, Firdous Abad, parts of Batmaloo, Qamarwari, Zainakoot, Noorabad, Lawaypora, Mujgund, Bemina, Iqbalabad, Usmanabad, Sir Syedabad, Mansoor Colony Bemina, Boatman Colony, Gousia Colony, EWS Colony, HIG/MIG/LIG Colony Bemina, Qamarabad, Nundreshi Colony Bemina, Tengpora (partly), JVC Hospital, Government Dental College, GMC Hostel Bemina, New Children Hospital Bemina, New Court Complex Mominabad, Hajj House Bemina, Parimpora, Shalteng, HMT, Umarabad, Gund Hassi Bhat, Maloora, Panzinara and adjoining areas.

The general public is advised to store sufficient quantity of water in advance to meet their requirements during the disruption period.

For any complaints or grievances regarding water scarcity or shortage, the public may contact the PHE Provincial Control Room (0194-2477207, 0194-2452047, 9419413914, 9419413915), which shall remain functional round the clock.