Srinagar, Jan 26: Reaffirming its steadfast commitment to the constitutional ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity, the University of Kashmir (KU) on Monday celebrated the 77th Republic Day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm across its main and satellite campuses.
The main function was held at the university’s main campus, where Vice-Chancellor KU Prof. Nilofer Khan unfurled the National Flag at the lawns of the Vice-Chancellor’s Secretariat. The ceremony began with the singing of the National Anthem, creating an atmosphere of pride, unity and collective resolve.
Extending warm Republic Day greetings to the university fraternity and the nation, Prof. Khan described the occasion as a moment of reflection as much as celebration.
“Republic Day is not merely a ceremonial occasion; it is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility towards building a just, inclusive and progressive society,” she said, adding that the day reaffirms faith in the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution of India.
The Vice-Chancellor urged students, faculty and staff to pursue excellence in their respective domains while upholding ethical standards and democratic principles that form the foundation of the nation. She also lauded the unwavering dedication of the teaching and administrative fraternity in strengthening the university’s academic and institutional ethos.
Referring to the Padma Shri 2026 conferred on Prof. Shafi Shauq, former faculty member and former Dean, School of Arts, KU Prof. Khan said that the honour is a testament to the immense contribution of the university’s staff to the nation’s rich literary heritage and cultural legacy. She noted that the prestigious recognition reflects the depth of talent nurtured by the University of Kashmir and underscores its enduring role in shaping intellectual and cultural discourse at the national level.
“This meaningful gathering reflects the collective commitment of the university community to uphold the democratic fabric of our country,” Prof. Khan remarked, while extending Republic Day greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir in particular and the nation at large.
Senior university functionaries, including Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada, Dean Research Prof. Mohammad Sultan Bhat, Dean College Development Council Prof. Khurshid Ahmad Butt, Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Controller of Examinations Prof. Majid Zaman Baba, deans of various schools, heads and coordinators of teaching and research departments, officers of the Registry and Examination Wing, faculty members and non-teaching staff, were present on the occasion.
Following the flag-hoisting ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, along with the university officials, participated in the main Republic Day Parade held at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar.
The smooth conduct of the celebrations was ensured by the University Proctorial Wing, led by Chief Proctor Prof. Imtiyaz Ahmed Khan.
Adding a cultural dimension to the celebrations, the Department of Students Welfare (DSW) organised a cultural programme highlighting India’s rich heritage, unity in diversity and pluralistic traditions.
Meanwhile, the flag unfurling ceremonies were also held at North, South and Kupwara satellite campuses of the university, witnessing enthusiastic participation from students, staff and officials.
