Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Government College for Women,
Moulana Azad Road, Srinagar, organized an educational field trip along the Pampore
Awantipora axis on November 13, 2025 as part of its experiential-learning initiative. The visit
was designed to provide students with exposure to real-world reporting environments, field
observation, and practical journalistic exercises.
Students from Semester 5 (FYUGP), Semester 9 (Integrated Programme), and Semester 4
(Postgraduate) participated in the trip, which was flagged off by Principal Prof. (Dr.) Yasmeen
Farooq. In her brief address, Prof. Farooq advised the students to make the best use of the field
visit to explore environmental, social, and developmental issues.
The group, accompanied by Dr. Suhail Ahmad (Head of Department), Dr. Rouf Bhat (faculty
member), and Ms. Riffat (office assistant), began the journey from the college campus and
made several halts en route.
The first stop was the Chatlam Wetland Reserve, an important satellite wetland of the Dal Lake
system. Students observed the wetland’s biodiversity, interacted with locals, and discussed
conservation challenges related to encroachments and seasonal water fluctuations.
At Pampore, the students visited saffron fields to study traditional cultivation methods, market
trends, and the impact of climate change on production. They interacted with local growers
who shared concerns about erratic rainfall, declining yields, and market constraints. The
students also carried out a short photo-documentation exercise as part of their field-reporting
component.
The group later visited the Avantiswami Temple complex, a heritage site protected by the
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Officials from the ASI briefed them on the historical
and architectural significance of the site and on preservation measures being undertaken.
Subsequently, the team proceeded to the Vasturvan Hills near the Islamic University of Science
and Technology (IUST), Awantipora—a site of historical and cultural interest. The scenic
setting provided students with the opportunity to engage in landscape photography and reflect
on the relationship between natural and cultural heritage.
The visit concluded at IUST, where the students attended a Business Fest organized by the
university. They interacted with students and faculty members, gaining insights into campus
media, start-up ventures, and youth entrepreneurship.
The field visit integrated elements of field reporting, environmental observation, and cultural
documentation, offering students a multidimensional learning experience. It helped strengthen
their journalistic understanding of Kashmir’s ecology, economy, and cultural heritage.
HOD Dr. Suhail and the students thanked the worthy Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Yasmeen Farooq
for facilitating the field trip, terming it as a productive exercise and hoping for more such
opportunities in near future.
