J&K Science Communicators Network

*JKSCN Felicitated by Director General School Education for Excellence in Science Popularization, Astronomy Programs and other innovative outreach programs*

The Jammu & Kashmir Science Communicators Network (JKSCN) has been felicitated by the Director General, School Education, at JKSCERT for its remarkable contributions towards science popularization, night sky watching programs, nature walks, and other innovative outreach activities.

JKSCN has been actively working to ignite scientific curiosity and environmental consciousness among students through a wide range of experiential learning initiatives. From astronomy sessions under the open sky to guided nature explorations and interactive science demonstrations, JKSCN has played a vital role in nurturing young minds and promoting scientific temper across schools in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Director General, School Education, appreciated JKSCN’s dedicated efforts and emphasized the importance of such programs in complementing classroom learning with real-world experiences. The felicitation recognizes the network’s consistent work in engaging youth with science and nature through creative, hands-on approaches.

JKSCN extended heartfelt gratitude to the Directorate of School Education and JKSCERT for the honour and reaffirmed its commitment to continue its mission of inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and environmental responsibility among students.

*Media Incharge*

Physics Lovers, here is something unique for you - an exam that you can enjoy!

NAEST - National Anveshika Experimental Skill Test is one of its own kind.
It brings you the joy of seeing physics in action all around you.

The first level of exam is The Screening round, an online round. It has short 1-min video showing some event around you - it can be a guava being cut, a suitcase on wheels being pushed at the airport or even a bird flying up to a tree branch. MCQs based on the videos assess observational and analytical skills.

The second level is The Prelims round. If shortlisted in screening round, sitting at home, using the material available in and around home, with full freedom to consult anyone, 3 innovative experiments are to be performed. The guidelines are sent and about a week's time is given to perform each.

About 40 shortlisted students reach Semi finals held at Sopan Ashram, Kanpur - the 'teerth' for every physics student where Prof H C Verma resides. Lodging, boarding and travel expenses are borne by organizers. Each student enjoys multiple workshops and also participates in Semi finals. A rare competition where competitors learn together joyfully while competing!

Six finalists compete for the top 3 awards. The national winners are honoured and awarded at the Annual Convention of IAPT - The Indian Association of Physics Teachers.

There is no participation fee but huge cash prizes waiting to be won.

This is not a test, it is a huge celebration of physics enjoyed by students, their families and their teachers. It assesses not what has been memorised but awards what new is brought to the table by each student.

Open to school students of grades 9 to 12 and for college students enrolled in B.Sc and M.Sc.

Visit https://naest.shiksha-sopan.org and enrol today if you are a student.
Hurry up and motivate your students if you are a teacher.
Don't let this opportunity slip by if you are a parent of a child studying physics in grades 9 -12.
The last date is extended to May 25, 2025.

For further details, write to [email protected]

Today's brainstorming session on physics, hosted by Dr. Ijaz, Head of Department of Physics at Islamia College Srinagar, promises to be an exciting event. Prof. H.C. Verma, a renowned physicist and Padma Shri awardee, is conducting the session as part of his one-week visit to Kashmir.

Prof. Verma is well-known for:
- *Physics Outreach*: Developing over 600 low-cost physics experiments for classroom demonstrations and conducting workshops for physics teachers.
- *Textbook Author*: Writing popular physics textbooks, including "Concepts of Physics" for school and college levels.
- *Research*: Publishing 139 research papers in reputed journals, focusing on experimental nuclear physics, nanomaterials, and physics education

The session likely aims to:
- *Inspire Students*: Foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of physics among students.
- *Knowledge Sharing*: Provide a platform for Prof. Verma to share his expertise and experiences with the academic community.
- *Interactive Learning*: Encourage hands-on learning and experimentation in physics.