Srinagar, Sep 10 (KNS): The Department of Students’ Welfare (DSW), University of Kashmir, in collaboration with the English Debate Club and Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), J&K Regional Branch, organised the Annual IIPA Debate-2026 at the university campus here on Thursday.

The debate, which has a legacy of over two decades, was held on the topic, “Is Food Adulteration the Biggest Public Health Challenge Facing Jammu & Kashmir Today?”

Students from various universities, colleges and institutions participated in the debate and presented arguments both in favour of and against the motion.

Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir, Prof Nilofer Khan, who was the chief guest, said debates provide students with an opportunity to develop confidence, clarity of thought and the ability to appreciate differing viewpoints.

She said the theme was particularly relevant as food adulteration affects households and requires greater public awareness, responsible citizenship and effective institutional action.

Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration, J&K, Khalid Jahangir, who was the guest of honour, said food safety was a shared responsibility involving consumers, the food industry and regulatory agencies.

“Awareness among consumers, ethical practices in the food sector and effective enforcement by regulatory agencies must work together,” he said.

Vice Chairperson, IIPA J&K Regional Branch, Dr G N Qasba, highlighted the longstanding association between IIPA and the University of Kashmir and said debates played an important role in nurturing democratic values, informed public discourse and responsible citizenship.

Registrar, KU, Prof Naseer Iqbal, said the event reflected the university’s commitment to providing students with opportunities for intellectual engagement beyond the conventional classroom.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Earlier, Dean Students’ Welfare, KU, Prof Seema Singh, delivered the welcome address and appreciated the continued association between DSW and IIPA J&K Regional Branch.

The proceedings were coordinated by Dr Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer, DSW and Organising Secretary of the event.

The event was attended by Prof S M Afzal Qadri, former Dean Students’ Welfare, KU; S G M Andrabi, Joint Secretary, IIPA J&K Regional Branch; Bashir Ahmed, Member, Executive Committee, IIPA J&K Regional Branch; and A M Watali, Senior Member, IIPA.

The jury comprised Prof Farzana Gulzar, Director, Women’s Studies and Research Centre; Prof Javid Ahmed, Head, Department of Public Administration; and Dr Gazzala Hassan, Scientist, Pollution Control Committee.

In the team category, the Department of Political Science, University of Kashmir, won the IIPA Rolling Trophy. The winning team comprised Aaliya Ali and Raashid Rasheed.

In the individual category, Syed Aleeza Balkhi of the Institute of Kashmir Studies secured the first prize, while Aaliya Ali of the Department of Political Science, KU, won the second prize. Nimrah of SKUAST-K secured the third prize.

The first consolation prize was awarded to Barha Malik of the Department of Law, while Janifer Salati, also from the Department of Law, received the second consolation prize.

The event concluded with the distribution of prizes and certificates among the winners and participants.

The organisers expressed gratitude to the guests, jury members, faculty, participating institutions, students and volunteers for their support in the successful conduct of the debate.(KNS)