University of Kashmir and IIPA host the 2026 Annual Debate to address food adulteration across Jammu & Kashmir. Academic leaders and regulatory authorities stressed that safeguarding everyday nutrition demands both strict enforcement and civic awareness.
The Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), J&K Regional Branch, in collaboration with the English Debate Club, Department of Students’ Welfare (DSW), University of Kashmir, on Thursday organised the Annual IIPA Debate–2026 at the University of Kashmir on the topic, “Is Food Adulteration the Biggest Public Health Challenge Facing Jammu & Kashmir Today?”
The debate, which carries a rich legacy of over two and a half decades, brought together students from different universities, colleges and institutions, providing them a platform to deliberate on an issue of direct relevance to public health, society and everyday life.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nilofer Khan, who was the Chief Guest, appreciated IIPA J&K Regional Branch and the Department of Students’ Welfare for sustaining the debate as an important academic tradition of the University. “A university is not only a place where students acquire degrees; it is a place where young minds learn to think, question and express themselves. Platforms such as the IIPA Debate help our students develop confidence, clarity of thought and the ability to appreciate viewpoints different from their own. I congratulate all the participants and organisers for keeping this meaningful tradition alive.”
The Vice Chancellor observed that the theme chosen for the 2026 debate was particularly relevant, as food adulteration affects every household and calls for greater public awareness, responsible citizenship and effective institutional action.
Khalid Jahangir, Commissioner, Food & Drug Administration, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, and Guest of Honour, appreciated the choice of the topic and emphasised the importance of collective efforts in ensuring food safety. “Food safety is not merely a regulatory responsibility; it is a shared responsibility. Awareness among consumers, ethical practices in the food sector and effective enforcement by regulatory agencies must work together. It is encouraging to see young students engaging with such an important public health issue through informed debate.”
Dr. G. N. Qasba, Vice Chairperson, IIPA J&K Regional Branch, highlighted the longstanding association between IIPA and the University of Kashmir and the role of debate in nurturing democratic values and informed public discourse. “The IIPA Debate has grown into a meaningful academic tradition because it gives young people the freedom to think, question and articulate their views. IIPA is proud to be associated with the University of Kashmir in sustaining this platform, which encourages informed discussion, democratic dialogue and responsible citizenship.” Speaking on the occasion he said, Food adulteration is not only a matter of food safety and public health, but also of awareness, ethical responsibility and effective enforcement, and it is encouraging to see our young students engaging with the issue so thoughtfully.”
Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar, KU said that the debate reflected the University’s commitment to providing students with opportunities for learning and intellectual engagement beyond the conventional classroom.
“The real strength of a university lies in creating spaces where students can engage with contemporary issues and learn from one another. The IIPA Debate provides exactly such a space. It encourages students to read, research, reason and communicate, qualities that remain valuable throughout their academic and professional lives.”
Earlier, Prof. Seema Singh, Dean Students’ Welfare, KU, delivered the welcome address. She welcomed the distinguished guests, jury members, faculty members and participating students and appreciated the continued association between DSW and IIPA J&K Regional Branch.
The debate proceedings were coordinated by Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer, Department of Students’ Welfare and Organising Secretary, who also conducted the proceedings of the function.
The programme was attended by Prof. S. M. Afzal Qadri, former Dean Students’ Welfare, University of Kashmir; 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.
The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing different universities of the valley , colleges and institutions. The participants presented arguments both in favour of and against the motion, demonstrating considerable preparation, confidence, clarity of thought and awareness of the subject.
In the team category, the Department of Political Science, KU emerged as the winner of the prestigious 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. Aaliya Ali of the Department of Political Science, KU, won the Second Prize, while 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 valedictory function concluded with the distribution of prizes and certificates among the winners and participants. The event once again reaffirmed the importance of the IIPA Debate as a sustained platform for intellectual engagement, public speaking and leadership development, while highlighting the commitment of the University of Kashmir and IIPA J&K Regional Branch to nurturing informed and confident young voices.
The organisers expressed their gratitude to the distinguished guests, jury members, faculty members, participating institutions, students and volunteers whose support contributed to the successful conduct of the debate.
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