On the eve of National Good Governance Day, the University of Kashmir organised an awareness programme on the theme “Transparency, Accountability, Responsiveness and Inclusive Governance” with an aim to sensitise the university fraternity about the core principles that underpin effective and people-centric governance.
National Good Governance Day is observed annually to promote awareness about good governance practices and is celebrated in the memory of former Prime Minister of India, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision and leadership continue to inspire transparent, accountable and responsive public administration.
Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor, KU Prof. Nilofer Khan, said that the University remains firmly committed to upholding the values of good governance in its day-to-day functioning. “Our primary accountability is to our students in particular and to society in general. Our governance framework is based on responsiveness, integrity and inclusiveness,” she remarked.
Highlighting the transformative role of institutional reforms, the Vice Chancellor said that good governance makes a tangible difference in institutional outcomes. She added that the University has developed a comprehensive package of good governance initiatives, including extensive technological interventions.
“E-governance has brought a paradigm shift in the overall working of our departments and offices, making the entire system more transparent,” she said, adding that timely delivery of justice and effective grievance redressal are hallmarks of good governance.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone, IAS (Retd.), an alumnus of the Department of Botany, KU and former Director General IMPARD, Secretary GAD, CEO ERA, Member and Chairman of the Public Service Commission.
He emphasised that accessibility and responsiveness to public concerns form the foundation of good governance.
Dr. Lone said that listening to people, being accessible and addressing their issues in a time-bound manner is the ultimate trademark of good governance. “When an officer is able to perform duties to the satisfaction of stakeholders, it automatically encompasses all the core values of good governance,” he observed.
In his opening remarks, Registrar, KU Prof. Naseer Iqbal, reaffirmed the University’s collective commitment to the principles of accountability, inclusiveness and transparency. He said that in a university system, governance goes beyond mere compliance with rules and guidelines. “We are custodians of public faith, and every decision—whether related to students or otherwise—must reflect integrity,” he said.
The proceedings of the awareness programme were conducted by Mr. Sheikh Asif Rashid Deputy Registrar, General Administration (NTW)/ DVO/ Grievances KU.
The programme was attended by Deans, Heads of Departments, Directors, Officers of the University administration and other members of the University fraternity, who actively participated in deliberations on strengthening good governance practices within the institution.
