Government Higher Secondary School Halaran, Thathri Doda

JAMMU: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo today chaired a review meeting to examine a proposal for extending cultural activities to schools and higher education institutions across all districts of Jammu & Kashmir, with the aim of harnessing and channelising the creative potential of the youth through structured arts based interventions. The meeting, convened under the aegis of the Department of Culture, was attended by senior officers of the Culture and School Education departments along with other stakeholders.

Chairing the meeting, the Chief Secretary called for a well-structured and actionable plan for attracting the young population of J&K towards arts and cultural activities. He suggested that a number of selected High Schools, Higher Secondary Schools and higher education institutions be identified and utilised as nodal centres for discovering, nurturing and giving direction to potential talent in art forms including poetry, creative writing, theatre, visual arts, painting and music.

The CS underlined the critical importance of identifying and engaging resource persons from diverse art forms as an essential prerequisite for the success of the programme. He emphasised that youth engagement through the arts is fully in consonance with the spirit and vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates for a holistic, experiential and multidisciplinary approach to learning.

The Chief Secretary stressed that participation of youth in cultural activities must be made impactful and interactive, moving beyond passive reception to active engagement. "We need to encourage our youth to participate meaningfully in such activities. The engagement has to be impactful and interactive," he observed.

Underlining the broader significance of culture as a sector, Atal Dulloo noted that culture is a great cause of economic activity and its relevance will only grow in the age of automation and Artificial Intelligence. "Culture and the arts will foster meaningful human existence in the age of AI. It is not just about heritage preservation, it is about building a future-ready generation rooted in identity and creativity," he remarked.

A detailed presentation on "Youth Engagement and Empowerment through Arts in Jammu & Kashmir" was made by renowned theatre personality and founder-director of Natrang, Balwant Thakur, who outlined a comprehensive, multi-phase framework for integrating arts-based interventions in educational institutions across the Union Territory.

The presentation highlighted the need for integrated arts-based interventions encompassing theatre and storytelling, music and dance and visual arts and crafts as purposeful tools within educational processes. It underscored that art builds confidence, creativity and critical thinking, strengthens communication and public speaking skills, bridges gaps in traditional education, fosters leadership qualities through empathy and collaboration and prepares youth to compete at national and international levels.

The proposed programme outlined a three-phase implementation strategy: Phase I focused on Exposure and Awareness through formation of Travelling Art Units conducting live performances at schools, especially in underserved and remote areas; Phase II covering Identification and Capacity Building of Trainers by selecting and training serving government school teachers as Art Resource Persons; and Phase III entailing District-Level Implementation through deployment of Art Resource Persons, formation of School Art Clubs, organisation of workshops and art camps and District and UT-level Art Festivals for talent recognition.

The Chief Secretary directed joint formulation of a detailed, time-bound plan of action, assuring that approvals would be accorded at the earliest. He advised that implementation be commenced without delay, with a robust feedback mechanism put in place to continuously improve the programme. "Start with these activities, take feedback from the beneficiaries, improve further and make it a truly impactful initiative for our youth," the Chief Secretary concluded.

Directorate of School Education, Jammu (DSEJ)

Mandatory documents required from private schools for the countersigning of results by Cluster Heads, including permissions, safety certificates, and student identification details like APAAR ID and PEN.

Dear Principal (Dr. Bhagwan Dass) sir,

Today, we gather to bid farewell to you on your transfer from GHSS Halaran, Doda to Govt. Girls HSS Surinsar, Jammu. Your leadership, dedication, and guidance have inspired both students and staff alike. Under your vision, our school has grown not only in academics but also in values and discipline.

We are grateful for your support, encouragement, and the warmth you brought to our school community. Your presence will be deeply missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire us.

We wish you all the success and happiness in your new journey. Thank you for everything, Sir. You will always remain a part of GHSS Halaran, Doda.

*****Staff of GHSS Halaran, Doda*****

*Principal and Cluster Head HSS Halaran (Doda) Conducts School Visits to Enhance Academic Standards*

DODA, July 23, 2025 – In a bid to strengthen the academic framework and ensure quality education delivery, Dr. Bhagwan Dass, Principal and Cluster Head of Higher Secondary School (HSS) Halaran, Doda, undertook a series of school visits within the Cluster. The institutions visited included Govt. Girls High School Kencha, Govt. MS Khoya Kencha, Govt. MS Bagdair, Govt. NPS Umer Mohalla Kencha and Govt.PS Banjoura.

The purpose of the visits was to assess the academic environment, facilitate direct interaction with educators and students, and reinforce the cluster’s commitment to academic excellence. Cluster Head engaged extensively with the teaching faculty and student body, gaining meaningful insights into classroom practices and student participation.

A key focus of Dr. Bhagwan Dass, Principal's interactions was the pressing need to enhance academic performance across all levels. Teachers were encouraged to intensify their efforts by embracing innovative, student-centric pedagogical strategies. Cluster Head underscored the importance of cultivating an inclusive and effective learning environment that supports the intellectual and personal growth of every learner.

In addition to pedagogical guidance, Cluster Head issued directives regarding the strict adherence to the academic calendar and the timely and precise maintenance of teacher diaries. He emphasized that these practices are essential in upholding academic discipline, ensuring educator accountability, and maintaining the consistency of teaching standards.

The visits were widely acknowledged as both inspiring and constructive. They have not only boosted morale among the faculty but also set a clear roadmap for academic improvement across the cluster. Such initiatives reflect a strong leadership commitment to elevating the standards of education and ensuring holistic student development.

*Principal and Cluster Head HSS Halaran (Doda) visits various Schools of Cluster HSS Halaran, Doda*.
Date: 22/07/2025

The Principal and Cluster Head of HSS Halaran (Doda) visited GGMS Halaran Zone Bhatyas falling within the Cluster HSS Halaran (Doda) today on 22/07/2025. During the visit, the Principal interacted with both teachers and students, taking stock of the academic environment and student engagement.

Emphasis was laid on the importance of academic progress, and teachers were instructed to put in their best efforts to uplift the academic standards of students. The Principal highlighted the need for dedicated and student-centered teaching practices.

Further, teachers were advised to adhere strictly to the academic calendar and ensure the regular and up-to-date maintenance of teacher diaries, as part of maintaining academic discipline and accountability.

The visit was both productive and motivational, aiming to reinforce academic values and drive better outcomes for students across the cluster.

A meeting was held on 25.04.2025 under the chairmanship of Dr. Bhagwan Dass, Principal/Cluster Head at GHSS Halaran, Doda.

The meeting was convened to review the academic progress, discuss infrastructure needs, and plan upcoming events.

The meeting was attended by Heads of Institutions from High Schools, Middle Schools, and Primary Schools falling under Cluster Halaran.

Sd/-
Dr. Bhagwan Dass,
Principal/Cluster Head
GHSS Halaran, Doda

A meeting was held on 10.03.2025 under the chairmanship of worthy Principal, Dr. Bhagwan Dass jee. A detailed discussion was held on the essential items needed for the school’s development. The SMDC members approved for purchasing essential items. He thanked everyone for their active participation and input during the meeting. He reiterated the importance of effective fund utilization to support the school’s overall development. The next meeting will be held on first week of April, 2025 to review the progress of the procurement and discuss for further steps.

Happy Holi!

On the auspicious occasion of Holi, I extend my warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to all the members of the School Education Department, Doda. May this festival of colors bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to each of us and our families. Holi is a time to celebrate unity in diversity, and as educators, we play a vital role in fostering harmony and understanding in society. Let us take this opportunity to strengthen our bonds with one another, work together with renewed enthusiasm, and continue our efforts in shaping a brighter future for the students under our care. May the colors of Holi fill your lives with joy, success, and good health. Stay safe, stay happy, and enjoy this festive season with your loved ones! Warm regards Mohammad Hafiz Chief Education Officer

Wishing everyone a joyful and colorful ! May this festival of colors inspire us to spread the light of education, harmony, and inclusivity. Let’s celebrate the spirit of learning and unity.

Best wishes from Sh. Bhawani Rakwal, JKAS, Project Director, Samagra Shiksha, J&K.