Tauseef Ahmad

Srinagar, March 29: In a proud and inspiring moment for Jammu & Kashmir, Mohammad Altaf Matahanji, popularly known by his pen name A. R. Matahanji, was conferred with the Swami Vivekananda Rashtriya Yuva Puraskar 2026, a National Level Award, during a prestigious National Conference held today at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre, Srinagar, J&K. The event, themed “Mission Vishwa Guru Bharat”, brought together distinguished personalities, scholars, writers, and social contributors from across the country.

The national-level award ceremony was organized by Swami Vivekananda National Peace Spiritual Cultural Centre Bharat in collaboration with Naturo Alternative Medical Science Research Federation Bharat, Zenith Book of World Records, and World Book of Star Records. The award was presented by Chief Guest Dr. Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson of Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board and Minister of State, in the presence of Guest of Honour, Padma Shri Dr Vikas Mahatme, Ex-Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha (Nagpur, Maharashtra), Dr Rajib Pal, Organiser, SWIPSCC, Bharat, other eminent dignitaries and delegates from across India.
The honour marks a significant milestone for Bandipora district, as A. R. Matahanji continues to elevate Kashmir’s literary voice to national and international platforms. Emerging from a humble Wullar-fringe background, Matahanji’s journey symbolizes resilience, intellectual depth, and creative brilliance. His writing embodies the spirit of Alim (knowledge), Adab (literary refinement), and Aab (dignity), transforming lived experiences into profound literary expressions.

His widely acclaimed literary work The Pearls of Pain has earned him remarkable global recognition. The book, known for its philosophical depth and emotional resonance, has crossed geographical and cultural boundaries, gaining appreciation across national, continental and international record platforms.

Pertinent to mention, Matahanji has been accorded with global recognition and record-breaking achievements. His literary excellence has been formally acknowledged by UN Book of World Records, which conferred a World Record upon him for creating a deeply moving literary work that transforms human suffering into a narrative of healing and hope. At the continental level, Asian Book of World Records honoured him for literary excellence, recognizing his work as a significant Asian contribution that bridges classical literary traditions with modern sensibilities. Nationally, National Book of Records (India) verified his work as a record-setting literary achievement, highlighting its lyrical depth, emotional honesty, and inspiring resilience. The citations praised the book’s emotional depth and philosophical insight, describing it as a global voice of conscience in contemporary literature.

Not only this, earlier this year, Matahanji received the International Icon Award 2026 from International World Records, followed by the International Star Award and recognition from Orient Book of World Records, acknowledging his philosophical insight, social consciousness, and global literary impact.

Currently serving in the Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir, Matahanji’s achievements reflect a harmonious blend of public service and creative excellence. His accomplishments have not only elevated his personal stature but have also brought recognition to his department, district, and the larger cultural identity of the entire Jammu & Kashmir.

What makes his journey even more extraordinary is the overwhelming media attention it has inspired. Despite emerging from a marginalised Wullar-fringe background, A. R. Matahanji became the first-ever Kashmiri writer, who’s deeply moving journey was headlined and featured by more than 200 prominent news agencies and portals across India, spanning print, digital, and electronic media, transforming a once-quiet Kashmiri voice into a voice that now echoes across nations and continents.

Among the prominent platforms that have carried his story are India Tribune Times, Times of India Daily, Report World, The Hindustan Express, Indian Express Newsfeed, Business Line Print, Scroll India News, India Today Daily, India Today Newsflash, The Indian Post, Madhya Pradesh News Tribune, India Forbes News, India Global Live, Indian Press Wire, Standard News Wire, News India Network, India Mirror News, India Buzz Times, Indian Express News, India News Nation, The India Brief and India Watch Daily, alongside extensive coverage across regional and pan-India digital media networks. This unprecedented coverage transformed a quiet voice from Wullar into a globally acknowledged literary figure.

The conferment of the Swami Vivekananda Rashtriya Yuva Puraskar 2026 further cements Matahanji’s role as a cultural ambassador of Kashmir’s literary heritage. His recognition at the national conference underscores the power of literature to transcend boundaries and inspire humanity. Observers note that Matahanji’s writing does not merely narrate pain, it dignifies it. His words heal, inspire, and elevate, reminding readers that adversity can be transformed into wisdom and hope.

As Bandipora celebrates this remarkable achievement, A. R. Matahanji’s journey stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring writers and youth across the region. From the tranquil shores of Wullar Lake to national and global recognition, his success echoes a powerful message: when words are born of honesty and courage, even the quietest valley can resonate from Wullar to the world.

J&K Govt Says Prior Approval Mandatory; Audit-Based System in Place to Prevent Profiteering

Srinagar, Mar 29: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday said private schools cannot increase or collect fees without prior approval, asserting that strict regulations are in place to check arbitrary hikes and profiteering in the education sector.

Replying to a query in the Legislative Assembly, the government said provisions under the Jammu and Kashmir School Education Act, 2022 clearly govern the fixation and regulation of fees in private institutions.

It informed the House that under Rule 7 of the J&K Private Schools (Fixation, Determination and Regulation of Fee) Rules, 2022, no school is allowed to revise or impose any fee without clearance from the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC).

The government said fee structures are approved only after detailed financial audits, taking into account factors such as infrastructure, location, administrative costs and reasonable surplus to ensure that education does not turn into a commercial activity.

Additional parameters including academic performance, use of technology, student strength and nature of classes are also considered, while schools are categorised based on rural and urban locations.

It further said institutions with advanced facilities like laboratories, smart classrooms and improved sanitation are assessed differently, adding that the overall framework is aimed at maintaining a balance between quality education and affordability while safeguarding parents from unjustified fee hikes.

New Delhi: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, and MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today said that over the last 11 years, the Modi Government has enabled the mainstreaming of youth from Jammu & Kashmir, which has in turn raised their level of self-confidence and aspiration.

Interacting with participants of the 6th Kashmir Youth Exchange Programme, “Watan Ko Jaano”, organised by My Bharat under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Minister said that youth from Jammu & Kashmir are now emerging as toppers in civil services and other competitive examinations. He said that earlier, many young people from the region were hesitant to step beyond their immediate surroundings, but today they are confidently engaging with opportunities across the country and contributing to national sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and aviation.

Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision articulated in 2014, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that focused attention was given to regions like Jammu & Kashmir and the North East which had remained on the margins of development for long. He said that sustained policy support and targeted interventions have helped bridge this gap, and the visible change in the confidence, mobility, and aspirations of youth from Jammu & Kashmir reflects this transformation.

The interaction provided a platform for young participants from districts such as Pulwama, Bandipora, Anantnag and Kupwara to share their experiences of connecting with the rest of the country. Many participants spoke about their visits to national institutions including Parliament, Legislative Assembly and Rashtrapati Bhavan, describing how such exposure has strengthened their sense of belonging and participation in India’s democratic framework.

Participants shared that programmes like this are helping youth from Jammu & Kashmir move beyond earlier limitations and actively engage with diverse cultures and communities across the country. Several students noted that there is a growing sense of trust and openness, and that more young people are now willing to explore opportunities outside the region and build meaningful connections.

Young achievers from the region, including those pursuing careers in sports and competitive examinations, also highlighted both their progress and their aspirations. Some participants pointed to the need for further strengthening of sports infrastructure, access to coaching and availability of facilities in Jammu & Kashmir to fully realise the potential of local talent. Responding to these inputs, the Minister said that the ecosystem for sports and youth development in Jammu & Kashmir is steadily improving, with greater transparency in selection processes and increased investment in infrastructure. He cited the recent Ranji trophy victory by J&K Cricket team.

Suggestions were also received regarding improving logistical arrangements and enhancing structured interaction with students from other parts of the country through institutional visits and peer engagement. The Minister acknowledged these suggestions and indicated that such inputs would help further strengthen the design of future programmes.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the transformation underway in Jammu & Kashmir is part of a larger effort to ensure that no region or section of society remains left behind in the country’s development journey. He said that the increasing participation of youth from Jammu & Kashmir in national life is a clear indication of this shift, and that their growing confidence and aspirations will play an important role in shaping India’s future.

The programme concluded with cultural presentations by the participants, showcasing the rich heritage of Jammu & Kashmir and reinforcing the spirit of integration and shared identity.

Ganderbal: The NSS Units of Government Degree College (GDC) Ganderbal successfully organised a three-day camp at Manasbal from March 25- 27, 2026, in collaboration with the Tourist Office Manasbal. The initiative reflected a strong commitment towards environmental sustainability and community engagement.

The programme was conducted under the esteemed guidance of Ahsan-ul-Haq Chishti, Chief Executive Officer (WMDA) and Azad Ahmad Yaseen, Assistant Tourist Officer (ATO) Manasbal, who also inaugurated the camp. The initiative was undertaken under the patronage and support of Principal Prof. Fouzia Fatima, who consistently encourages and provides such meaningful opportunities to students. The programme was efficiently coordinated by NSS Programme Officers Dr. Jamsheeda Akhter and Dr. Mansha Nisar.

The camp featured a series of impactful activities, including a cleanliness drive, sanitation campaign, and a nature walk, organised as part of a post-Eid cleanliness initiative aimed at fostering civic responsibility among students and the local community.

During the camp, NSS volunteers collected substantial quantities of waste from key locations, including the Manasbal Public Park, nearby markets, and Kondibal village. The Manasbal sanitary staff extended commendable support throughout the campaign. Special appreciation is extended to Farooq Ahmad and Mr. Jawed Ahmad Pandit for their consistent assistance and coordination during all three days.

The programme witnessed the active participation of 30 NSS volunteers, who also engaged with local shopkeepers and residents of Kondibal village, spreading awareness about hygiene, sanitation, and environmental preservation.

The camp was further strengthened by the presence and support of faculty members, including Dr. Sheikh Tanveer, Dr. Rafiq, Dr. Ulfat, Dr. Shabana Aslam, Dr. Marifat, Dr. Ravinder Kour, Jawed Ahmad, Mehraj Bhat, Mr. Zahoor Ahmad Mir, and Naseema Akhter.

The camp concluded with a valedictory session, during which certificates were distributed among all participating volunteers in recognition of their dedication and service. The organisers also acknowledged the valuable support of Deedar Singh and Mehraj for their cooperation and assistance.

This initiative stands as a testament to GDC Ganderbal’s continued efforts in nurturing socially responsible citizens and promoting sustainable practices within the community.

Srinagar, Mar 28 : In a significant step towards fulfilling its public welfare commitments, the Jammu and Kashmir government announced on Saturday that a comprehensive bill on drug de-addiction is ready and will be introduced during the ongoing Budget Session. The development underscores the government’s focus on tackling the social evil with a robust legislative framework.

Minister for Health & Medical Education, Sakina Masood Ittoo, while responding to legislators’ queries affirmed that the government is making concerted efforts to table the bill in the current session. The move is seen as a proactive measure to institutionalize the fight against substance abuse, a key priority for the administration.

Highlighting the government’s multi-pronged strategy, Minister Ittoo delineated the division of responsibilities, stating that while the police are tasked with curbing the spread of narcotics, the Health Department is focused on the treatment and rehabilitation of affected patients. She underscored the need for a synchronized approach, calling upon the Home Department to intensify its operations against the drug trade to complement the health initiatives.

The Minister also pointed to a mixed trend in substance abuse across the region, noting fluctuations in different areas. In a move aimed at protecting citizens from exploitation, Minister Ittoo issued a firm directive that private drug de-addiction centers will not be permitted to arbitrarily charge patients. She invited legislators to report any instances of overcharging, assuring that the government would take strict action.

The proposed legislation and the government’s clear division of labor reflect a systematic approach to what has been a long-pressing issue in the region, aligning with the broader vision of ensuring a healthy and secure society. (KNS)