Srinagar: Kashmir University’s National Service Scheme (NSS) organised two separate online lectures as part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations.

Dr Mir Mubashir Altaf from the varsity’s School of Law delivered a lecture on “Understanding the Directive Principles of State Policy” on August 12 while Dr Javaid Aziz Bhat from the Department of Linguistics delivered a lecture on “Greeting Expressions in Indian Languages” on August 13.

In his lecture, Dr Mubashir dwelt at length on the provisions related to the Directive Principles of State Policy, even as he highlighted the importance of the Directive Principles in promoting social and economic justice.

Dr Mubashir highlighted the pivotal role of the constitutional court in reading various Directive Principles of State Policy into part third rights, thereby elevating them to the status of fundamental rights.

The lecture witnessed participation of NSS volunteers and students from various disciplines. Dr Hina Basharat, Programme Officer NSS, conducted proceedings of the online lecture.

In his lecture, Dr Javaid Aziz Bhat gave a brief introduction about various languages spoken in the country and also talked about the importance of learning new languages for developing social harmony.

Dr Bhat also discussed the constitutional aspect of various languages as well as the linguistic diversity of the country. He emphasised on the importance of learning greeting expressions to develop more meaningful social interactions and networks.

The lecture was followed by a brief question-answer session.

Dr Musavir Ahmad, Programme Coordinator NSS KU presided over the event, which was moderated by Dr Wakar Amin, Programme Officer NSS. Other NSS Programme Officers Dr Yasir Hamid, Dr Shazia and Dr Hina also participated in the lecture session.

Meanwhile, KU’s Department of Students Welfare (DSW) organised a four-day fine arts festival under the aegis of its Red Ribbon Club as part of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations.

During the festival which started on August 10, poster, painting and slogan competitions were organised on varied important themes, including Drug De-Addiction, Blood Donation, Environment Protection, Climate Change and Global Warming.

Around 120 persons participated in these competitions.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Talat Ahmad, Dean Academic Affairs Prof Farooq Masoodi, Registrar Dr Nisar A Mir and Dean Students Welfare Prof Raies A Qadri interacted with the participants and encouraged them to continue taking part in competitions at local, national and international level.

Prof Qadri said the DSW aims to provide a platform to youth to showcase their talent.

“This festival was organised as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations,” he said.

KU Cultural Officer Shahid Ali Khan conducted proceedings of the events.

KR Desk