SRINAGAR: The Department of Political Science at the University of Kashmir (KU) won the IIPA Rolling Trophy at the Annual Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) Debate-2026 held at the university on Thursday, with participants debating whether food adulteration is the biggest public health challenge facing Jammu and Kashmir.
Organised by the IIPA Jammu and Kashmir Regional Branch in collaboration with the English Debate Club of the Department of Students’ Welfare (DSW), the event brought together students from universities, colleges and other institutions across the Valley to discuss issues related to food safety and public health.
The winning team from the Department of Political Science comprised Aaliya Ali and Raashid Rasheed.
In the individual category, Syed Aleeza Balkhi of the Institute of Kashmir Studies secured first place. Aaliya Ali of the Department of Political Science, KU, won the second prize, while Nimrah of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Kashmir (SKUAST-K) secured the third prize.
Barha Malik of the Department of Law received the first consolation prize, while Janifer Salati, also from the Department of Law, was awarded the second consolation prize.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, who was the chief guest, said universities should provide platforms that encourage students to think critically, express their views and engage with contemporary issues. She described food adulteration as a matter affecting every household and emphasised the need for greater public awareness and institutional action.
Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration, J&K, Khalid Jahangir, who attended as guest of honour, highlighted the importance of collective efforts in ensuring food safety and said consumer awareness, ethical practices and effective enforcement must work together to address the issue.
Vice Chairperson of the IIPA J&K Regional Branch, Dr G.N. Qasba, said the debate had evolved into a significant academic platform promoting informed discussion, democratic values and responsible citizenship. Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, said such events provide students opportunities for intellectual engagement beyond the classroom.
Dean Students’ Welfare, Prof. Seema Singh, delivered the welcome address, while the proceedings were coordinated by Dr Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer, Department of Students’ Welfare and organising secretary of the event.
The jury comprised Prof. Farzana Gulzar, Director of the Women’s Studies and Research Centre; Prof. Javid Ahmed, Head of the Department of Public Administration; and Dr Gazzala Hassan, Scientist at the Pollution Control Committee.
The event concluded with the distribution of prizes and certificates among winners and participants.
