On Saturday, April 12, 2025, the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), Jammu & Kashmir Regional Branch convened a meeting in Srinagar to plan upcoming programs over the next 4–6 months across Srinagar and other districts of the Kashmir Division.
The meeting was attended by Dr. G.N. Qasba (Hon. Vice Chairman, Kashmir), Mr. A.M. Watali (IPS Rtd., Executive Committee Member), Mr. Kh. Bashir Ahmad (IAS Rtd.), Prof. Gul Mohammad, Mr. Mir Showkat Ahmad, Mr. Bashir Ahmad (Executive Committee Member), Mr. G.M. Andrabi (Hon. Joint Secretary), and Mr. Shahnawaz Bukhari, JKAS, Joint Director Information (Special Invitee).
The members resolved to revitalize IIPA’s activities in Kashmir, focusing on key issues related to good governance and public administration. They acknowledged with gratitude the support and encouragement from Patron Dr. Ashok Bhan and Chairman Mr. B.R. Sharma.
Key discussions included pursuing accommodation for IIPA activities in Srinagar, as highlighted in a DO letter by the Chairman to the Chief Secretary. Pending arrangements, the use of the Conference Hall at the Directorate of Information, Residency Road, was proposed, subject to approvals from the Director Estates and Secretary Information.
Plans were made to organize the Annual Debating Contest by August, with members to propose or confirm the event theme. The suggestion by Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, former Advisor to the Governor, to host a lecture on a theme of public interest was welcomed. Additionally, it was resolved to invite the Transport Commissioner to speak on the role of Information Technology in enhancing service delivery in the Transport Department. The critical issue of traffic management in Srinagar was also discussed, with a proposal to engage all relevant stakeholders, including Traffic Police authorities.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to hold smaller, focused discussions on key governance-related themes in the coming months.
