Anantnag’s Mushqbudji rice receive GI tag

Jammu and Kashmir's authorities plan the revival of aromatic rice Mushk Budji

Kashmir, known for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and rich cultural heritage, is also home to a hidden gem - Mushk Budji, an indigenous aromatic rice variety. With its short, bold grains and rich aroma, this rice has long been considered a delicacy for special occasions. In 2023, Mushk Budji rice received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, alongside eight other products from Jammu and Kashmir, securing its status as a unique and protected product. This blog post will delve into the significance of Mushk Budji rice, its revival, and the plans to expand its cultivation area, boosting its yield.

Mushk Budji's Unique Qualities

Mushk Budji rice's distinctiveness lies in its grains, known for their short and bold appearance, and an alluring aroma that elevates its culinary appeal. This aromatic rice variety has earned a special place in Kashmiri cuisine and is often reserved for celebrations and festivities. Its rich aroma and delightful taste make it a sought-after ingredient in various traditional dishes.

Geographical Indication (GI) Tag

In 2023, Mushk Budji rice achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition is a testament to the rice's unique qualities and its deep-rooted connection to the specific regions of Kashmir. With this tag, only rice grown in designated areas of Kashmir can bear the coveted title of Mushk Budji, ensuring its quality and reputation are legally protected.

Cultivation of Mushk Budji Rice

Mushk Budji rice is predominantly cultivated in the regions of Sagam, Panzgam, and Soaf Shali in the Anantnag district, as well as the Beerwah belt of the Budgam district. These areas provide the ideal climate and soil conditions for the growth of this aromatic rice variety. The synergy of these natural elements results in the unique qualities that make Mushk Budji rice stand out.

Reviving a Cultural Heritage

Mushk Budji rice has a storied history in Kashmir. However, it faced a decline in the 1970s due to the devastating blast disease. In a commendable effort, the government revived the cultivation of Mushk Budji rice in 2007, breathing new life into this cultural and culinary treasure. The Agriculture Department of Kashmir has since been dedicated to expanding its cultivation and promoting the benefits of this special rice to both farmers and consumers.

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond its aromatic allure and cultural significance, Mushk Budji rice is also a nutritional powerhouse. It is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, making it a healthy choice. Additionally, this rice variety boasts a low glycemic index, meaning it does not lead to sudden spikes in blood sugar levels after consumption. Its nutritional value makes it an attractive option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Expansion Plans

In an exciting development, Jammu and Kashmir authorities have ambitious plans to boost the cultivation of Mushk Budji rice. Over the next three years, the cultivation area is set to expand to 5,000 hectares. This expansion promises to not only enhance the yield of this aromatic rice but also contribute to the economic growth of the region.

Conclusion

Mushk Budji, with its captivating aroma and cultural significance, is not just a rice variety; it's a testament to the rich traditions of Kashmir. Its Geographical Indication (GI) tag and the efforts to expand its cultivation area signify the commitment to preserving and promoting this treasure. As it continues to make strides in the culinary world, Mushk Budji rice remains a fragrant reminder of the beauty and cultural heritage of Kashmir.

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JKSSB Syllabus for the Post of Social Forestry Worker

Syllabus for Written Test (Objective Type) for the Post of Social Forestry Worker

The exam shall aim to evaluate the candidates for their scientific, analytical, and numerical aptitude, and their general awareness over a broad range of subjects. The medium of examination shall be English. The level of question papers shall be 10th standards.

Marks: 120 Time: 2:00 Hours

Basic Mathematics (32 Marks)

Percentage, Average, Time, Work and Distance, Ratio and Proportion, Problem of Age, Probability, LCM, HCF, Mensuration.

Basic Reasoning (32 Marks)

Analogies, Relationship concepts, Figure odd one out, Direct Sense, Figure Series completion, Venn Diagram, Number series, Coding/Decoding.

Basic English (32 Marks)

Articles, Synonyms, Antonyms, Preposition, Verbs, Reading comprehension, Determiners, Spellings, Sentences.

General Awareness and Science (24 Marks)

General current events (National Level), Sports, Indian culture, Indian history, Indian geography, Capital/State, General Science, Health, Hygiene and Sanitation, Geography of Jammu and Kashmir, Culture of Jammu and Kashmir, History of Jammu and Kashmir.

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JKSSB Syllabus for forester post

JKSSB, Syllabus for Written Test (Objective Type) for the Post of Forester

The exam shall aim to evaluate the candidates for their scientific, analytical, and numerical aptitude, and their general awareness over a broad range of subjects. The medium of examination shall be English.

Marks: 120 Time: 2:00 Hours

Section A: Basic science question papers will be of the objective type. This paper aims to test the aptitude of candidates in basic science. The level of question papers shall be 12th standards, having equal weightage for all three subjects: Physics, Chemistry, & Biology. (32 Marks)

Section B: Basic numerical ability, data interpretation, profit & loss, compounding, discounting, mensuration, geometry, including coordinate geometry, trigonometry, and fundamentals of statistics, including probability. (32 Marks)

Section C: General Knowledge shall include knowledge of current events and matters of everyday observation and experience. The paper will also include questions on History and Geography, Indian Polity, Constitution of India, and general issues related to forests, wildlife, environment, biodiversity, and climate change. (24 Marks)

Section D: Logical reasoning and analytical ability. (16 Marks)

Section E: Decision making and problem solving. (16 Marks)
Syllabus PDF 

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Jammu and Kashmir Current Affairs 2023 | Important for All Exams 

All Important Current of Jammu and Kashmir for the month of August 2023

Q1. When was Article 370 abrogated in Jammu and Kashmir?

a) August 15, 1947

b) August 5, 2019

c) August 15, 2019   

d) August 5, 1947

Answer: b

Explanation:

Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted special autonomy to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, was effectively abrogated on August 5, 2019. The Indian government revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and reorganized the region into two separate Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. This move was accompanied by a series of constitutional and legislative changes.

Q2. Which of the following district's Chikri Wood Craft received the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

A) Srinagar

B) Jammu

C) Rajouri

D) Baramulla 

Answer: Rajouri 

Explanation: In a significant recognition of local craftsmanship and agricultural heritage, the Geographical Indication (GI) Tags have been bestowed upon Rajouri Chikri Wood Craft from Rajouri district and the prized Mushqbudji Rice variety from Anantnag district.  This achievement is a result of a collaborative effort involving NABARD, the Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, and the Department of Agriculture, commencing in December 2020.

Hailing from the elevated landscapes of Kashmir, particularly Anantnag district, Mushqbudji Rice takes center stage as a premium aromatic short bold rice variety.  Nestled within the hill ranges of Jammu province’s Rajouri district, the exquisite Chikri Wood Craft stands as a testament to intricate artistry. Admired for its pale, honey-colored softwood, Chikri is brought to life through meticulous carving and fine detailing. The GI tag endorses the unique essence of this craft, reflecting the region’s rich heritage and masterful skills.

Q3. Who inaugurated the 9th India International MSME Expo and Summit 2023 in New Delhi?

A) Droupadi Murmu

B) Narendra Modi

C) Manoj Sinha

D)  Amit Shah

Answer: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha

Explanation: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha of Jammu and Kashmir commenced the 9th India International MSME Expo and Summit 2023 in New Delhi. This prestigious gathering, organized by the MSME Development Forum, served as a platform to foster collaboration between policymakers and entrepreneurs in the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, driving forward the nation’s economic growth.

More than 40 exhibitors, supported by JKTPO (Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization), participated in the 9th India International MSME Expo & Summit 2023. These exhibitors showcased a diverse array of innovative products, services, and solutions across various sectors.

Q4. Which of the following films has received the Nargis Dutt Award for Best Film at the 69th National Film Awards?

A) Sardar Udham 

B) The Kashmir Files

C) The Nambi Effect

D) Toolsidas Junior

Answer: B) The Kashmir Files

Explanation: The Best Feature Film Award was presented to The Nambi Effect. The Kashmir Files won the Nargis Dutt Award for Best Film on National Integration. The Allu Arjun was awarded the Best Actor for the film Pushpa while the Best Actress Award was presented to Alia Bhatt and Kriti Sanon. 

Q5. Where will the 71st Miss World pageant be held in December 2023?

A) Mumbai 

B) Delhi

C) Kashmir

D) Bangalore

Answer: C) Kashmir

Explanation: The 71st Miss World pageant will be held in Kashmir, India in December 2023. This was announced by Julia Eric Morely, the CEO of Miss World, in a press conference held in Kashmir. Miss World Karolina Bielawska was on a week-long India tour and has begun her much-awaited dream to come to the country with a visit to Kashmir.

Q6. Which district has secured the top rank nationwide in the successful execution of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)?

A) Budgam

B) Pune

C) Srinagar  

D) Ganderbal

Answer: Srinagar

Explanation: The Srinagar district has secured the top rank nationwide in the successful execution of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), surpassing 114 Har Ghar Jal-certified villages across the country. This was announced by the Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) on June 30, 2023.

The Srinagar District achieved this honor through its exceptional performance in the assessment of the Jal Jeevan Survekshan conducted from October 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023.

Q7. Who is the author of the book "Monsoon: A Poem of Love and Longing"?

A) Amish Tripathi

B) Chetan Bhagat

C) Abhay Kumar

D) Ruskin Bond

Answer: Abhay Kumar

Explanation: The book "Monsoon: A Poem of Love and Longing" is written by Abhay Kumar, an Indian poet and diplomat. He is the Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR). The book was published by Sahitya Akademi on the occasion of its 68th anniversary (13th March 2022). The book is a poem that follows the monsoon which originates from Madagascar and travels to the Srinagar in the Himalayas and back to Madagascar.

Q8. Who inaugurated the 'Three-day National Thematic Workshop on Localization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Panchayats' in Srinagar?

A) Giriraj Singh

B) Narendra Modi 

C) Amit Shah

D) Rajnath Singh

Answer: A) Giriraj Singh  

Explanation: The Union Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Shri Giriraj Singh, inaugurated the 'Three-day National Thematic Workshop on Localization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Panchayats' in Srinagar.

The event was graced by the presence of Lt. Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, and Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Shri Kapil Moreshwar Patil.

In his address, the Minister highlighte  d that India's commitment to achieving SDGs by 2030 is a collective responsibility, not just of policymakers but also of elected representatives, particularly at the Panchayat level.

Q9.  When was the first batch of pilgrims for Budha Amarnath Yatra from Jammu flagged off?

A) 17 August 2023

B) 20 August 2023

C) 23 August 2023

D) 26 August 2023

Answer: B) 17 August 2023

The first batch of pilgrims for Budha Amarnath Yatra from Jammu was flagged off on 17 August 2023. ‘Budha Amarnath’ pilgrimage is a 10-day yatra in the mountainous district of Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir. The Buddha Amarnath Temple is one of the oldest shrines in the Jammu region. It concludes with the arrival of 'Charri Mubarak' (holy mace) at the shrine from Dashnami Akhara Poonch.

q10. Which of the following tulip gardens has been recognized as Asia's largest tulip haven by the World Book of Records?

A) Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands.

B) Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, India.

C) Butchart Gardens in Canada.

D) Tulip Fields of Lisse in the Netherlands.

Answer: B) Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, India.

The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar has been recognized as Asia's largest tulip haven by the World Book of Records in London. The garden has collection of 1.5 million tulip bulbs that showcase 68 distinct tulip varieties. The garden also provides sanctuary to an array of other flower species such as Daffodils, Hyacinths, Roses, Ranunculi, Muscaria, and Iris blooms.

Q11.  When was The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023, introduced in Lok Sabha?

A) July 26, 2023

B) August 26, 2023

C) September 26, 2023

D) Ocotober 26, 2023

Answer: A) July 26, 2023

The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023, was introduced in Lok Sabha on July 26, with the aim to include four communities in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list in Jammu and Kashmir. 

In Jammu and Kashmir, the Gujjars and Bakerwals are the dominant ST communities. With a combined population of nearly 18 lakh, they constitute the third-largest group in the region after Kashmiris and Dogras. The ST status granted to the Gujjar-Bakerwal community in 1991 brought them 10% reservation in government jobs and educational institutions.

Q12.  On which day was the first batch of Namda Art products flagged for export from Jammu and Kashmir?

A) World Environment Day

B) World Youth Skills Day

C) World Artisans Day

D) World Heritage Day

Answer: B) World Youth Skills Day

July 15 is World Youth Skills Day, on this day,  the Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, flagged off the first batch of Namda Art products for export. This initiative is part of the Namda Project, implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY).

Under the Namda Project, nearly 2,200 candidates from six districts of Kashmir, namely Srinagar, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Bandipora, Budgam, and Anantnag, have received training in the art of Namda craft. 

Q13.  Which butterfly has been officially declared as the 'Butterfly of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir' by the government?

A) Monarch Butterfly

B) Blue Pansy

C) Swallowtail Butterfly

D) Painted Lady Butterfly

Answer: B) Blue Pansy

The Jammu and Kashmir government has officially declared Blue Pansy as 'Butterfly of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir'.

The Blue Pansy is a species of bright blue butterflies found in parts of Southeast Asian countries, Australia and Africa. It is known under this name especially in India. These are territorial arthropods and are spread in 26 local subspecies throughout its range. The butterflies love sunlight and are often seen sitting on bare ground, basking in the rays of the sun.

Q14.  On which river is the Anji Khad Bridge situated in Jammu and Kashmir, serving as a significant infrastructure project connecting Katra and Reasi?

A) Tawi River

B) Chenab River

C) Ravi River

D) Anji River

Answer: D) Anji River

Anji Khad Bridge is a significant infrastructure project in Jammu and Kashmir that connects the Katra-Reasi section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway line. The bridge is situated over the Anji river and is ranked as the second most important bridge on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Project after Chenab Bridge.

Q15. Which product from the Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir recently obtained the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag recently on 2023?

A) Kashmiri Willow Bat

B) Walnut

C) Grey Rice

D) Kashmir Red chilli 

Answer: C) Basohli Painting

The world-famous Basohli Painting from the Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir has obtained the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. This is the first time in the history of GI registration that the Jammu region got a GI tag for handicrafts.

The Handicrafts and Handlooms Department of Kashmir has acquired a state-of-the-art equipment known as the OFDA 4000. This equipment is set to revolutionize the testing and authentication process of Pashmina, an exquisite fabric known for its luxurious warmth and softness.

The inauguration of the equipment took place at the prestigious Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre, located in Bagh e Ali Mardan Khan Nowshera, Srinagar. The Director of Handicrafts and Handlooms Kashmir, Mahmood Ahmad Shah, officiated the ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the Pashmina industry.

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JKSSB VLW Syllabus, JKSSB VLW exam date, JKSSV VLW Syllabus PDF Download

JKSSB VLW Syllabus, JKSSB VLW exam date, JKSSV VLW Syllabus PDF Download, 2023

ANNEXURE-“A”

Syllabus for the post of Panchayat Secretary

Marks: 100 Time: 02.00 Hrs.

S. No.	Subjects/ Topic	Marks assigned
1	GENERAL AWARENESS with special reference	20
	of UT of J&K
2	GENERAL ENGLISH & COMPREHENSION	20
3	GENERAL INTELLIGENCE & REASONING	20
4	QUANTITATIVE APTITUDE	15
5	BASIC KNOWLEDGE OF COMPUTERS	25
TOTAL		100

1. GENERAL AWARENESS with special reference of J&K UT

(i) Current Events of National and International importance

(ii) Political & Physical divisions of India

(iii) Climate & Crops in India 

(iv) Transport & Communication.

(v) Demography- Census, its feature and Vital Statistics. 

(vi) Important Rivers & Lakes in India.

(vii) Indian Economy.

(viii) Indian Culture & Heritage.

(ix) Indian History with special reference to Freedom Movement. 

(x) Indian Constitution- Basic features- Preamble, Fundamental Rights, 

Fundamental Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy

(xi) Science & Technology.

(xii) Environment, Ecology & Bio-diversity. 

(xiii) Taxation in India- Direct & Indirect Tax - CBDT, GST etc. 

(xiv) J&K UT 

a) History

b) Economy 

c) Geography- (Weather, Climate, Crops, Rivers, Lakes, Flora,  Fauna.) 

d) Heritage & Culture

e) Important Tourist Destinations

f) J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019. 

(xv) Centrally Sponsored Schemes (MGNREGA, PMAY, SBM) and Panchayati  Raj Act/Rules.

2. GENERAL ENGLISH & COMPREHENSION

(i) Tenses

(ii) Narration

(iii) Modals

(iv) Articles

(v) Reading Comprehension 

(vi) Fill in the blanks with Phrases, Pronouns, homonyms/ homophones etc 

(vii) Clauses

(viii) Synonyms and antonyms

(ix) Pairs of words and their use in meaningful sentences.

(x) Rearranging of jumbled sentences. 

(xi) Idioms and phrases.

(xii) Uses of Prepositions.

(xiii) Active & Passive Voice

(xiv) Error Spotting

(xv) Sentence Correction

(xvi) Spellings Correction

3. GENERAL INTELLIGENCE & REASONING

(i) Number series, Letter series, Semantic Series, Speed, Distance and Time, Statements and conclusions, Logical Reasoning, Mental Reasoning, Word Building, Numerical Operations, Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/ Number Analogy, Figural Analogy, Semantic Classification, Symbolic/ Number Classification, Figural Classification, Problem Solving. 

(ii) Symbolic Operations, Trends, Space Orientation, Space Visualization, Venn Diagrams, Drawing inferences, Punched hole/ pattern- folding & un-folding, Figural Pattern- folding and completion, Indexing, Address matching, Date & city matching, Classification of centre codes/roll numbers, Small & Capital letters.

4. QUANTITATIVE APPTITUDE

The scope of the test will be computation of 

(i) Whole numbers, decimals, fractions and relationships between numbers, Profit and Loss, Discount, Partnership Business, Mixture and Alligation, Time and distance, Time & Work,Percentage. Ratio & Proportion, Square roots, Averages, Interest, Basic algebraic.

(ii) Graphs of Linear Equations, Triangle and its various kinds of centres, Congruence and similarity of triangles, Circle and its chords, tangents, angles subtended by chords of a circle, common tangents to two or more circles, Triangle, Quadrilaterals, Regular Polygons, Circle, Right Prism, Right Circular Cone, Right Circular Cylinder, Sphere, Heights and Distances, Histogram, Frequency polygon, Bar diagram & Pie chart, Hemispheres, Rectangular Parallelepiped, Regular Right Pyramid with triangular or square base, Trigonometric ratio, Degree and Radian Measures, Standard Identities, Complementary angles.

5. KNOWLEDGE OF COMPUTERS

(i) Basic Applications of Computer and its component.

(ii) Fundamentals of computer sciences.

(iii) Hardware & Software, Concept of Open-Source Technologies.

(iv) Input & output Devices.

(v) Knowledge of MS Word, MS Excel, MS Access, MS PowerPoint, PDF  Internet and E-mail.

(vi) Concept of Computer Virus and Latest Anti-Virus.

(vii) Role of Information Technology in Governance

JKSSB VLW exam will be conducted in the first fortnight of December 2023 

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Government to clear 2000 cases under SRO 43 soon, vacancies identified

Excelsior News: In a major relief for the youth awaiting compassionate appointments including victims of militancy, border shelling/ firing and normal death cases of employees, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has decided to clear backlog of nearly 2000 SRO 43 appointments pending for past quite some time before the switch over to new policy for such jobs.

Official sources told the Excelsior that after the Government introduced new policy of Compassionate Appointments from January 1 this year, which was more or less on the pattern of the Central Government, a large number of cases under previous scheme of SRO 43 were pending for past quite some time.

Under SRO 43, the kin of those killed in militancy or border shelling-firing related acts and the Government employees who died during services, were eligible for job in the Government Departments. However, the new policy on Compassionate Appointments which came into effect from January 1, 2023, a merit-based criteria has been adopted for such posts and only those who fall in the criteria will get jobs while others will be paid a fixed amount of compensation.

According to sources, the Government has identified nearly 2000 vacancies, mostly in Class-IV category in different departments and very soon, 2000 cases pending under SRO 43 will be cleared giving jobs to as many youths who are waiting for past quite some time now.

An extensive exercise was undertaken by the General Administration Department (GAD) to identify Class-IV and few other vacancies in various departments of Jammu and Kashmir. The exercise has now been completed. Very soon, the Jammu and Kashmir Government is expected to clear nearly 2000 cases of SRO 43,” the sources said.

 

They added that the Government decision will not only generate 2000 jobs but will also bring major relief to the victims of militancy, border shelling/firing and kin of dead Government employees who were waiting for compassionate appointments for a long time.

 

The new scheme which has already come into force will grant appointment or monetary compensation on compassionate grounds to a dependent family member of a Government servant, who may die in harness or as a result of militancy-related action or due to enemy action on the Line of Control/International Border within Jammu and Kashmir and is not involved in militancy-related activities or retires on invalid pension, thereby, leaving his family in penury and without any means of livelihood.

 

The scheme will extend relief to the family of the Government servant and save them from financial destitution.

 

To bring greater transparency and equity, besides ensuring adequate safeguards against the misuse of the rehabilitation assistance framework, the new scheme has incorporated provisions for receiving online applications in a centralized manner in the GAD on a designated portal.

 

Under the new scheme, the number of vacancies and the merit list of the eligible candidates will be prepared annually and eligible candidates will be considered purely on the basis of merit obtained with regard to a point-based merit system on quarterly basis. Both the list of vacancies and merit list of candidates will be put out in the public domain to make the process fully transparent and accountable.

 

The appointment on compassionate grounds will be made for the multi-tasking staff or equivalent or lowest non-gazetted cadre posts in the department.

 

However, if an applicant is a graduate or has higher qualification, there are provisions to allow discretion for considering appointment in the non-gazetted cadre.

 

Even after introduction of new policy, the compassionate appointment cases still pending disposal in GAD under the existing SRO 43 rule for various reasons, including relaxation of rules and identification of post in other department, will be dealt with in accordance with SRO 43 of 1994, as amended from time to time.

 

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University of Kashmir Faces Over 500 Vacant Positions Since 2016

University of Kashmir Faces Over 500 Vacant Positions Since 2016, Hindering Academic and Administrative Functions

Date: October 23, 2023

In a concerning development, the University of Kashmir has been grappling with a shortage of non-teaching staff for the past seven years, with over 500 positions remaining unfilled since 2016. This persistent staff deficiency has taken a toll on the university's academic and administrative duties, hindering its overall functioning.

The root cause of this critical shortage lies in the frequent retirements of non-teaching staff members. Each year, approximately 70 to 80 employees retire, compounding the existing staff gap and leaving crucial positions vacant. This issue has affected various departments within the university, causing significant challenges in their day-to-day operations.

University officials familiar with the situation, while speaking to The Excelsior said that out of the total 2,450 sanctioned non-teaching positions, including those at satellite campuses, only 1,900 are currently occupied. The remaining 550 positions have been vacant since 2016, primarily due to retirements of employees.

Departments such as Watch and Ward, sanitation, hostels, examination wing, and landscape division have been hit the hardest, with each department facing approximately 30 to 40 vacancies. These shortages have severely impacted the ability to maintain proper security, cleanliness, and organization within the university premises.

The administrative block, Alama Iqbal Library, and the research centre are also affected, with nearly 100 technical positions remaining unfilled. These vacant positions include roles like laboratory assistants, lab attendants, junior technical assistants, professional assistants, and computer assistants.

Furthermore, the shortfall of staff has also adversely affected the research work in the science department, hampering the progress and potential breakthroughs in ongoing projects. With limited resources and personnel to support scientific endeavors, the university's commitment to innovation and academic excellence is being compromised.

Despite ongoing efforts to address the issue and initiate the recruitment process, progress has been disappointingly slow, exacerbating the frustration among potential applicants eagerly waiting for opportunities. The delayed and protracted recruitment process has only added to the complexity of the situation, further hindering the university's ability to fill these critical vacancies.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Kashmir has declared the prompt filling of these vacant positions as a top priority. Efforts are being made to streamline the recruitment process and expedite the selection of suitable candidates to alleviate the staff shortage.

The University of Kashmir, known for its commitment to excellence in education and research, is working diligently to overcome this significant hurdle. By ensuring the availability of a competent and sufficient non-teaching staff, the university aims to enhance its academic environment, administrative efficiency, and overall growth.

Addressing this long-standing issue promptly will not only benefit the university community but also contribute to the upliftment of education standards and opportunities in the region. Stakeholders are hopeful that the necessary measures will be taken to fill these vacant positions at the University of Kashmir, fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence, innovation, and overall development.

Source: Kashmir Life 

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Round Table Conferences in British India: Successes and Failures

Round Table Conferences in British India: Successes and Failures

First Round Table Conference:

This meeting happened in London from November 12, 1930 to January 19, 1931.

It had important people from British India, leaders from princely states, and members of three British political parties.

The Indian National Congress didn't join because many of its leaders were in jail for civil disobedience.

The conference lasted for a while, but not much of what they talked about was put into action, and the Congress Party continued its civil disobedience.

This meeting was seen as a failure.

Second Round Table Conference:

It was held in London from September 7, 1931, to December 1, 1931.

British representatives from different political parties, including the British Prime Minister, James Ramsay Macdonald, were there.

Indian princely states were represented by their rulers.

British Indians were represented by important people like Mahatma Gandhi, Md. Ali Jinnah, and others from different communities.

They talked about many things, including how to give fair representation to the depressed classes or untouchables. Gandhi and Ambedkar disagreed on this, but they signed an agreement called the Poona Pact in 1932.

The conference also discussed how the government of India should be set up, the power of provinces, protecting the rights of minorities, and the role of princely states.

Third Round Table Conference:

This conference took place from November 17, 1932, to December 24, 1932.

It had only 46 delegates in total.

The Indian National Congress and the Labour Party decided not to go.

Indian princely states were represented by their rulers.

British Indians were represented by people like the Aga Khan, leaders from the depressed classes, women, Europeans, Anglo-Indians, and labor groups.

This conference didn't achieve much because most of the big parties didn't show up, and they couldn't agree on how the constitution should be.

After these conferences, the British government made a document in 1933 that became the basis for the Government of India Act in 1935.

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Great Mutiny of 1857: Leaders and Locations

The Great Mutiny of 1857 was a significant event in Indian history. It was led by several prominent leaders such as Begum Hazrat Mahal, Nana Saheb, Rani Lekshmi Bai, Maulavi Ahmmadulla, and Khan Bahadur. The revolt took place in various locations including Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur, Bihar, Jhansi, and Faridabad. Lord Canning was the Governor-General of India at the time.

1. During which period did the Great Mutiny of 1857 take place?

a) Lord Canning

b) Lord Dalhousie

c) Lord Mountbatten

d) Lord Curzon

Answer: a) Lord Canning

2. Who was the leader of the revolt in Lucknow during the Great Mutiny of 1857?

a) Nana Saheb

b) Begum Hazrat Mahal

c) General Bhakt khan

d) Kunwar Singh

Answer: b) Begum Hazrat Mahal

3. Who was the leader of the revolt in Kanpur during the Great Mutiny of 1857?

a) Nana Saheb

b) Begum Hazrat Mahal

c) General Bhakt khan

d) Kunwar Singh

Answer: a) Nana Saheb

4. Who was the leader of the revolt in Delhi during the Great Mutiny of 1857?

a) Nana Saheb

b) Begum Hazrat Mahal

c) General Bhakt khan

d) Kunwar Singh

Answer: c) General Bhakt khan

5. Who was the leader of the revolt in Bihar during the Great Mutiny of 1857?

a) Nana Saheb

b) Begum Hazrat Mahal

c) General Bhakt khan

d) Kunwar Singh

Answer: d) Kunwar Singh

6. Who was the leader of the revolt in Jhansi during the Great Mutiny of 1857?

a) Nana Saheb

b) Begum Hazrat Mahal

c) General Bhakt khan

d) Rani Lekshmi Bai

Answer: d) Rani Lekshmi Bai

7. Who was the leader of the revolt in Faridabad during the Great Mutiny of 1857?

a) Nana Saheb

b) Begum Hazrat Mahal

c) General Bhakt khan

d) Maulavi Ahmmadulla

Answer: d) Maulavi Ahmmadulla

8. Who was the leader of the revolt in Bareili during the Great Mutiny of 1857?

a) Nana Saheb

b) Begum Hazrat Mahal

c) Khan Bahadur

d) Kunwar Singh

Answer: c) Khan Bahadur

 Indian history, Great Mutiny of 1857, leaders of revolt, locations of revolt, Lord Canning, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Nana Saheb, Rani Lekshmi Bai, Maulavi Ahmmadulla, Khan Bahadur, Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur, Bihar, Jhansi, Faridabad.

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Nobel Peace Prize 2023: Honoring Narges Mohammadi for Human Rights

The Nobel Peace Prize for 2023 was given to Narges Mohammadi, an Iranian woman who fought for women's rights and better conditions in Iranian prisons. She's been in jail many times for her beliefs. She's been working since the 1990s to make life better for women, to stop the death penalty, and to improve how people are treated in prison in Iran. She's also spoken out against the Iranian government for not treating people fairly.

Narges Mohammadi was born in 1973 in Zanjan, Iran. She started her fight for what she believed in during the early 1990s and was first put in jail in 1999. Since then, she's been arrested 13 times and found guilty five times, spending more than 10 years in prison because of her beliefs.

In 2010, Narges Mohammadi received the Sakharov Prize from the European Parliament for her work in defending human rights. She was released from prison in 2015 due to health reasons but was arrested again in 2016 and sentenced to 16 years in prison. Right now, she's in Evin Prison in Tehran.

Even while in prison, Mohammadi hasn't given up on her fight. She's written articles and letters to ask for better human rights in Iran. She's also met with important people from other countries and journalists to tell them about the problems human rights activists face in Iran.

The Nobel Peace Prize was given to Mohammadi because of her brave fight for human rights, freedom, and democracy in Iran. The people who decide the prize said she's a symbol of hope for everyone who wants a better future in Iran.

Narges Mohammadi getting the Nobel Peace Prize is a big deal. It shows that people all over the world support her and other human rights activists in Iran. It's also a reminder that the fight for human rights is something that matters to everyone, no matter where they live. We're all inspired by people like Mohammadi who are standing up for what's right.

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7 Most Important Climatic Regions of India

Climate	Region	Temperature	Vegetation	Characteristics
Tropical Rain Forest (Am)	West Coastal Plains, Sahyadris, parts of Assam	High temperature range: 18.2°C to 29°C	Tea, coffee, spices	Found in coastal areas, high temperatures, characteristic vegetation includes crops like tea, coffee, and spices.
Tropical Savanna (Aw)	Peninsular areas (except semi-arid zone in leeside of Western Ghats)	Mean temperature above 18.2°C, up to 32°C	Savanna	Found in peninsular areas, mean temperature above 18.2°C, natural vegetation consists of savanna.
Tropical Semi-Arid Steppe Climate (Bs)	Central Maharashtra to Tamil Nadu (leeside of Western Ghats and Cardamom Hills)	Temperature: 20°C to 23.8°C (December), 32.8°C (May)	Suitable for dry climate, livestock rearing	Runs southwards, suitable for dry climate and livestock rearing, temperature ranges from 20°C to 23.8°C (December) and 32.8°C (May).
Tropical and Sub-Tropical steppe Climate (BSn)	Punjab to Kutch (between Thar Desert and Ganga Plain)	Temperature: 12°C (January) to 35°C (June)	Varies	Occurs over a broad crescent, temperature ranges from 12°C (January) to 35°C (June), and can reach up to 49°C.
Tropical Desert (BWn)	Western parts of Barmer, Jaisalmer, Bikaner district of Rajasthan, Kutch	Uniformly high mean monthly temperature: 34.5°C	Desert vegetation	Found in western parts of Rajasthan and Kutch, uniformly high mean monthly temperature of 34.5°C, characterized by desert vegetation.
Humid Sub-Tropical Climate with Dry Winters (CWa)	Foothills of Himalayas, Punjab, Haryana plains, plains of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, and east of Aravalli Range	Dry winters, little rain from westerly depressions	Varies	Comprises foothills of Himalayas and plains of various states, dry winters except for some rain from westerly depressions.
Mountain Climate	Mountainous regions above 600m (Himalaya and Karakoram ranges)	Sharp contrast in temperatures, high rainfall variability	Varies	Seen in mountainous regions, sharp contrast between temperatures of sunny and shady slopes, high rainfall variability. The Trans-Himalayan region like Ladakh has a dry and cold climate with sparse and stunted vegetation.

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2023 Nobel Prize, Nobel Prize 2023, Nobel Prize List 2023

Q1) Who were awarded the Nobel Prize 2023 in Physics?

a) Jon Fosse

b) Jane Doe and Bob Johnson 

c) Marie Curie, Albert Einstein

d) Pierre Agostini, Ferenc Krausz, Anne L’Huillier

 

Ans: d) Pierre Agostini, Ferenc Krausz and Anne L’Huillier

 

 

Q2) What have Pierre Agostini, Ferenc Krausz and Anne L’Huillier been honored for?

a) Discoveries related to the photoelectric effect

b) The development of quantum mechanics

c) Experimental methods generating attosecond light pulses

d) Confirming the existence of gravitational waves

 

Ans: c) Experimental methods generating attosecond light pulses

 

Q3) Who were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2023?

a) Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman

b) Moungi G and Bawendi,

c) Jon Fosse and Jon Fosse

d) Pierre Agostini and Dr JocNil

 

 

An: a) Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman

 

Q4) What were Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman awarded Nobel Prize 2023?

a) Advances in immunology

b) Discoveries related to nucleoside base modifications

c) Developing mRNA vaccines against COVID-19

d) Combating infectious diseases

 

 

Ans: c) Developing mRNA vaccines against COVID-19

 

 

Q5) Which Nobel Prize did Moungi G. Bawendi, Louis E. Brus and Alexei I. Ekimov receive in 2023?

a) Physiology or Medicine

b) Physics

c) Chemistry

d) Literature

 

Ans: c) Chemistry

 

 

 

Q6) For what contribution did Moungi G. Bawendi, Louis E. Brus and Alexei I. Ekimov receive Nobel Prize 2023?

a) Discoveries related to the photoelectric effect

b) discovery and synthesis of quantum dots

c) The development of quantum mechanics

d) Confirming the existence of gravitational waves

 

Ans: b) discovery and synthesis of quantum dots

 

 

Q6) Who recieved Nobel Prize 2023  in Lirature?

a)  Haneed Mirza

b) Jon Fosse

c) Gill Mclan

d) Daivd Horin

 

 

Ans: b) Jon Fosse

 

Q6) For what contribution did Jon Fosse receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2023?

 

a) His plays and prose giving voice to the unsayable

b) Innovative poetry reflecting modern society

c) Investigative reporting through literary journalism

d) Historical fiction portraying critical events

 

Ans: Jon Fosse “for his innovative plays and prose which give voice to the unsayable”

 

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