When Students Speak, Governments Must Listen: Chhatron Ki Goonj in Jammu & Kashmir
For the youth of Jammu & Kashmir biggest question is no longer what the government promises but is when the promise will finally become an opportunity. Behind every recruitment notification is a young person who has spent months, years, preparing for a competitive examination. Behind every delayed result is a family waiting for financial independence, every cancelled or disputed examination is a generation being asked to start again. And behind every unemployment statistic is a young man or woman wondering how long they must wait before their education translates into a livelihood. This is why Rahul Gandhis Chhatron Ki Goonj initiative, which brings students into a direct conversation on education, recruitment and unemployment, has significance far beyond the political stages of the country. It raises questions that Jammu & Kashmirs political establishment can no longer afford to ignore. The youth of J&K are not demanding special treatment but a system that works, institutions they can trust and an economy that gives education a meaningful destination. At a time when political leaders are often more comfortable unveiling schemes, issuing statements and trading accusations than sitting down with students and listening to them, an initiative centred on the voice of the student offers a necessary challenge to the established style of politics. The real test of any government is not how loudly it speaks about the youth, but how seriously it listens when the youth speaks. For the youth of Jammu & Kashmir, the recruitment question is particularly important because government employment continues to be a one of the most stable and accessible avenues for educated young people. When recruitment is delayed, vacancies remain unfilled or examination processes become uncertain, the consequences are far greater than an administrative inconvenience. A delayed examination can mean another year of preparation, delayed result can mean another year of uncertainty and cancelled examination can mean that months or years of hard work have to begin again. Many students also face an age-related pressure that cannot simply be ignored. A young person may remain eligible for one recruitment cycle but lose that opportunity if the process is repeatedly delayed. The government must therefore establish a clear, annual and publicly accountable recruitment calendar for Jammu & Kashmir. Vacancies should be identified and communicated transparently and examinations should be conducted according to predetermined timelines also results should be declared without unnecessary delay and appointments should follow promptly. Where allegations of malpractice and irregularities arise investigations must be credible, independent and swift, while innocent candidates must not be made to suffer indefinitely. The principle should be simple government must protect both the integrity of the examination and the future of the candidate. Unfortunately, political leadership across the country often remembers students when an election approaches and forgets them once the campaign ends. This is precisely where initiatives such as Chhatron Ki Goonj can create a different political culture. Students do not need leaders who arrive once, make a speech, take photographs and disappear. They need leaders who return, listen, follow up and demand answers until the problem is resolved. In Jammu & Kashmir this type of distinction matters enormously. The larger issue, however, is not simply government recruitment. Jammu & Kashmir needs a comprehensive strategy for education, employment and economic transformation. It is neither realistic nor desirable to suggest that every graduate should depend upon a government job. The objective must be to create an economy in which a young person can choose between public service, private employment, entrepreneurship, research, skilled professions and new sectors of the economy. Our universities and colleges must become centres of opportunity rather than merely institutions that award degrees. Students should have access to modern laboratories, research opportunities, internships, career counselling, technology, industry exposure and entrepreneurship support. Skill development programmes must be judged not by how many certificates they issue but by how many young people actually find sustainable employment afterwards. J&K has enormous potential in tourism, horticulture, agriculture, handicrafts, food processing, information technology, renewable energy, logistics, creative industries and small and medium enterprises. Yet potential alone creates nothing. It must be supported by investment, infrastructure, credit, market access, professional training and predictable policy. A young entrepreneur should not have to spend more energy navigating bureaucracy than building a business. A graduate should not be told that a certificate itself is an achievement when what they desperately need is a livelihood. A modern employment policy for J&K must also recognise regional disparities. Opportunities cannot remain concentrated in a handful of urban centres. Students and young people in remote and rural areas must receive comparable access to education, coaching, digital resources and employment support. There is also a fundamental constitutional dimension to this debate. The promise of India is not simply that every citizen will be allowed to dream; it is that citizens should have a fair and equal opportunity to pursue those dreams. Equality of opportunity must be experienced, not merely quoted. A student from Budgam should believe that merit can take them as far as a student from Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi or Indore. A young woman from a rural district should have the same access to educational and professional opportunities as anyone else. A graduate from Jammu should not have to leave home simply because there is no serious employment ecosystem available locally. And a student preparing for a competitive examination should be able to trust the institution conducting it. This is why the political response to student grievances should never be dismissive. When young people ask questions about recruitment, examination integrity, education costs or unemployment, they are not creating problems; they are identifying the problems that governments are responsible for solving. It is particularly disappointing when political leaders respond to such concerns with ridicule, slogans or counter-slogans. Calling a youth campaign a jhooth ki goonj may make for a political soundbite, but it does not answer a single unemployed graduate. If the concerns of students are false, answer them with facts. If they are genuine, answer them with action. The language of democracy should be dialogue, not dismissal. This is also why the absence of sustained student engagement from many political formations deserves criticism. Leadership should not be confined to assemblies, press conferences and election rallies. It must be present in classrooms, universities, coaching centres and communities where young people are actually experiencing the consequences of policy decisions. The youth of Jammu & Kashmir should not have to wait for an election season before someone asks them what they need. Their concerns should be part of governance every day. The real opportunity before the Congress and its leadership, therefore, is to transform the spirit of Chhatron Ki Goonj into a sustained national and J&K-specific movement for educational opportunity, transparent recruitment and dignified employment. Jammu & Kashmir should have its own structured student dialogue, involving universities, colleges, professional institutions, young graduates and aspirants preparing for competitive examinations. Their concerns should be documented district by district and converted into a concrete J&K Youth Employment and Education Charter with measurable commitments, a transparent recruitment calendar, time-bound filling of vacancies, safeguards for examination integrity, support for students affected by cancelled examinations, stronger public universities, affordable professional education, expanded career and skill programmes, entrepreneurship support and a deliberate strategy to attract private investment and create jobs across the Union Territory. Most importantly, there must be a culture of accountability in which governments are judged by outcomes rather than announcements. Jammu & Kashmirs youth do not need pity, political tokenism or another round of empty assurances. They need a fair system in which hard work has meaning. They need leaders who will stand with them when cameras are absent, when examinations are delayed, when recruitment processes stall and when a young graduate is wondering whether to continue preparing or abandon the dream altogether. Rahul Gandhis Chhatron Ki Goonj can become the beginning of that conversation. From Indore to Jammu & Kashmir, the message should be unmistakable: students are not merely the future of India but are citizens of India today, and their voices deserve to shape the policies that determine their tomorrow. Let their concerns be heard, let governments be held accountable, and let the politics of promises finally give way to the politics of performance. J&Ks youth are not asking for favours. They are asking for opportunity, equality, dignity and a fair chance to build their own future. That is not too much to ask from a democracy. It is the very least it owes them. (The Author is the Central Kashmir head of the Jammu and Kashmir Students' Association, a UPSC educator and a political analyst)
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When NLSIU LawSoc Used PM Modi, Savarkar, Hitler, Trump Photos As Dartboard Targets
The National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru has come under fire after a post from July 2025 went viral on social media. During an event, a Law Society (LawSoc) stall featured a dartboard with photographs of political figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Veer Savarkar, Hitler, POTUS Trump, among others. The stall [] The post When NLSIU LawSoc Used PM Modi, Savarkar, Hitler, Trump Photos As Dartboard Targets appeared first on The Commune .
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 16 (IANS) Condemning the recent remarks of Karnataka Congress President, B.K. Hariprasad, on imprisoned student activist Umar Khalid, Telangana BJP President N. Ramchander Rao on Wednesday said that it was unfortunate to call such an individual 'a nationalist.' Speaking to IANS, Rao said, The Karnataka government and Karnataka leaders who have given a certificate of being a nationalist to Umar Khalid is very unfortunate. We condemn such certificates being given to people who speak about dividing India, who speak about azaadi for Kashmir. Who speak about tukde-tukde karenge Bharat ke. And these above persons indulge in anti-national activities. Claiming that the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) is a nationalist force, Rao said that the only body which would oppose such remarks is the student organisation affiliaited to the RSS. The Karnataka government must apologise to the people for making such statements, not only to the people of Karnataka but to the entire country, he demanded. Rao further claimed, Because Umar Khalid is known for anti-national activities, such a person being branded as a nationalist is very unfortunate. Reportedly, the ABVP opposed the proposal to screen a documentary on student activist Umar Khalid at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru. The ABVP had previously sought to cancel the proposed screening of film-maker Lalit Vachanis documentary on imprisoned activist Umar Khalid, titled 'Prisoner No. 626710 is Present'. On Tuesday, B.K. Hariprasad called imprisoned activist Umar Khalid a ationalist and criticised the ABVP for opposing a proposed documentary screening of the student activist at the NLSIU in Bengaluru. He said that ABVP has no right to speak against Khalid because the organisation holds in high regard Nathuram Godse, who was the first terrorist in India. Umar Khalid is a nationalist. And ABVP has no right to speak about Umar Khalid because ABVP adores Nathuram Godse, who was anti-national; the first terrorist of the country. They have no moral right or moral ethics to speak about Umar Khalid, Hariprasad told reporters. suruchi/rad
Rice prices rise again in Bengaluru as poor rainfall hits supply
Bengaluru: Rice prices have increased again across Karnataka, with traders attributing the latest hike to inadequate rainfall, lower crop output and shortages of raw material. The latest increase is the third rise in three months, adding to the burden on consumers. According to wholesale traders, the price of ordinary rice has increased by around Rs Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Heavy rain lashes Bengaluru; IMD forecasts more showers across K'taka
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 16 (IANS) Heavy rains lashed Bengaluru, inundating several residential areas and causing damage in parts of the city, even as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast widespread rainfall, including heavy showers, across several districts of Karnataka over the next 24 to 48 hours. The heavy downpour in Bengaluru on Tuesday night resulted in the collapse of a military compound wall in the Domlur area, leaving three cows dead and Muniraju, the owner, seriously injured. Muniraju suffered fractures in both legs and is undergoing treatment in the ICU. Residents said they had repeatedly urged authorities to repair the compound wall, which they claimed had remained in a vulnerable condition for several years. They also alleged that the wall had been constructed without an adequate foundation and that there was no proper arrangement for the drainage of rainwater. Residents said water rushes into nearby residential areas whenever there is heavy rainfall. Following the incident, several residents have reportedly moved out of their homes temporarily, fearing that the remaining portion of the compound wall could collapse. Personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Fire and Emergency Services have taken up rescue and relief operations at the spot. Local MLA N.A. Haris visited the affected area and took stock of the situation. Meanwhile, the IMD has forecast widespread rainfall across coastal, Malnad and interior districts of Karnataka under the influence of the southwest monsoon and a low-pressure area. Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds is likely in Udupi, Mangaluru and Karwar districts. The IMD has also warned of rough sea conditions and advised fishermen not to venture into the sea. Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in the hilly and mountainous areas of Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Madikeri and Hassan districts, where a yellow alert has been issued. Several districts in southern and central Karnataka, including Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Ramanagara, Kolar, Chikkaballapur, Mysuru, Mandya, Tumakuru and Chamarajanagar, are likely to receive moderate rainfall. In north Karnataka, Belagavi, Dharwad, Haveri, Gadag, Vijayapura, Bagalkot, Kalaburagi, Yadgir and Ballari districts are likely to receive moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning. Strong winds with 30-40 kmph speed are also possible in some areas. Weather experts said rainfall activity is expected to increase across various parts of the state from Wednesday due to a cyclonic circulation at sea level and increased wind speeds. In Bengaluru, partly cloudy weather is expected during the day, with moderate to heavy rainfall likely during the evening or night.
Umar Khalid is a nationalist: B K Hariprasads remark sparks BJP attack
Brace for water, electricity crunch as Karnataka drought deepens: CM DK Shivakumar
Former CEO Aditya Kulkarni described modern parenting in Indian metros as a well furnished prison, arguing that families have lost the village-like support once provided by neighbours and grandparents. Parents now pay for nannies, daycare and other services while managing demanding careers. He said every arrangement comes with a cost, whether money, career, parental presence or retirement, leaving families with difficult trade-offs.
Korea prepare slow, low bounce court to hurt India; Bhambri out
The combination worked effectively during their previous Davis Cup outing against the Netherlands in Bengaluru.
Bangalore house hunt is slowly driving us insane, the couple, frustrated by the search, said. Were honestly just looking for a genuine, clean, semi-furnished 2BHK from a direct owner or a trustworthy broker.
India's policymakers keen to adopt new technologies: Autodesk CEO Andrew Anagnost
Autodesk's CEO notes India's ministers are receptive to new technologies and collaboration. The country offers significant quality and depth in its talent pool for hiring. Autodesk is actively engaging with its recently hired team in India. The company's research and development unit in Bengaluru is central to its growth. Strategic partnerships and investments are accelerating digital transformation across projects.
Union Ministers To Expose Govts Failure During Vijayadashami With Documentary Evidence
Kumaraswamy, at a press conference in Bengaluru, said There is no need to rush. I will release all the documentary evidence at an appropriate time.
Bengaluru firm owner held in interstate fake drug racket
Karnataka Health Minister U T Khader announced the busting of a major interstate counterfeit drug racket, leading to an arrest and an ongoing investigation into the suspected supply of fake medicines to hospitals. The racket involved procuring cheap drugs, refilling them, and relabelling them as premium brands, with seizures worth Rs 5 crore. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the widespread network.
ED Emphasizes Technology Use and Swift Hearings at Quarterly Conference in Bengaluru
The Enforcement Directorate highlights technology and forensic capabilities to enhance legal processes at a recent conference in Bengaluru. ED Emphasizes Technology Use and Swift Hearings at Quarterly Conference in Bengaluru
The Science of Attention: Living Well in an Age of Constant Digital Distraction
One of Kashmir's defining strengths has been its rich tradition of learning, scholarship and intellectual curiosity. For generations, the pursuit of knowledge has been central to personal growth and social progress. Today, however, one of the greatest challenges is not the lack of information but the growing difficulty of paying attention. In an age of constant digital distraction, protecting attention has become essential for learning, innovation and human progress in Kashmir. Attention is one of the mind's most remarkable abilities. It enables people to focus on what matters, filter distractions, learn new skills, solve problems and make sound decisions. Cognitive scientists describe attention as the mental processes that allow the brain to select relevant information from the vast amount of sensory input it receives every moment. Without attention, learning becomes harder, memory weakens, and judgement suffers. Modern life places unprecedented demands on attention. Smartphones, social media and constant notifications compete for attention throughout the day. Research in neuroscience and psychology suggests that repeated interruptions and frequent task switching can make it more difficult to concentrate, retain information and think deeply. This challenge carries particular significance for Kashmir. As the region continues to invest in education, innovation and human development, the ability to focus has become increasingly valuable. Sustained attention remains an indispensable human capacity that enables individuals and societies to realize their potential. Kashmir, too, has benefited from greater digital connectivity, wider access to knowledge and new opportunities for learning, innovation and entrepreneurship. Recent advances in cognitive science show that attention acts as a selective filter, enabling the brain to focus on relevant information while reducing competing distractions. Researchers distinguish between different forms of attention. Sometimes attention is captured automatically by something new or unexpected, such as a notification. At other times, attention is directed consciously towards a particular goal or task. In today's digital environment, strengthening this deliberate form of attention has become increasingly important for learning, informed decision-making and clear thinking. Evidence increasingly suggests that attention is one of the defining human resources of the digital age. Studies indicate that uninterrupted periods of reading, learning, reflection and focused work can strengthen concentration, improve memory and deepen understanding. The science of attention has become an important area of research in neuroscience, psychology and cognitive science. Universities and research institutions across the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Europe and India continue to study how attention influences learning, decision-making, mental wellbeing and healthy ageing. In India, the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bengaluru has made significant contributions to research on cognition, attention and brain health. It is an essential human capacity that deserves care, practice and protection. Every human being possesses qualities that no machine can fully replace. People can reason, imagine, create, empathise and search for truth with an open mind. These qualities flourish when the mind is calm, disciplined and focused. A distracted mind is more likely to react impulsively, while a focused mind is better able to listen carefully, reflect thoughtfully and make balanced decisions. These qualities remain relevant in everyday life and are just as important in the digital age. Neuroscience shows that the brain continues to change throughout life. This ability, known as neuroplasticity, strengthens the neural pathways involved in learning and attention through repeated practice. Reading, learning new skills, spending time with family, enjoying nature and engaging in enriching conversations help cultivate sustained attention. Living well in the digital age calls for using technology with purpose, balance and awareness. Alongside the many opportunities that digital technologies provide, spending time away from screens, appreciating Kashmir's natural surroundings, engaging with family and community, reading with patience and allowing moments of stillness can refresh the mind and restore perspective. Cultivating attention benefits society as a whole. Habits such as reading deeply and using technology responsibly strengthen learning, clear thinking and informed decision-making. The years ahead will depend not only on technological progress but also on the wisdom with which technology is used. Knowledge achieves its greatest value when guided by integrity, compassion, responsibility and a commitment to the common good. The science of attention offers a lesson that extends far beyond neuroscience. What receives sustained attention gradually shapes the way people think, what they learn, the decisions they make and, ultimately, the kind of society they build. In a world where information is abundant but attention is limited, the ability to focus has become one of the defining skills of the twenty-first century. In Kashmir, this carries particular significance. As the region continues to invest in education, innovation and human development, protecting attention also means protecting one of its greatest strengths: the curiosity, creativity and potential of its people. A society that values thoughtful reading, informed thinking, lifelong learning and the responsible use of technology strengthens its capacity to innovate, adapt and flourish. Technology will continue to evolve, but the human qualities that give it purpose will remain indispensable. Wisdom, compassion, integrity, creativity and sound judgement are cultivated through education, experience and human interaction, and they will continue to shape how technology serves individuals and society. Looking ahead, the future of Kashmir will be shaped not only by the technologies its people use but also by the quality of the attention they cultivate. If attention is protected and strengthened, learning becomes deeper, decisions become wiser and innovation becomes more purposeful. Above all, one of the most valuable investments Kashmir can make is in the essential human capacity from which learning, creativity, discovery and progress all begin: attention. (Dr Nasir Shah is a former Additional Director, JKSTIC, Department of Science and Technology, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. He has remained actively associated with the promotion of science, scientific temper, innovation and educational awareness across Jammu and Kashmir. Er. Suhaib Bakshi writes on science, technology, human cognition and learning. Feedback :nasir.shah@rediffmail.com | bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com)
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