Since the last three years the tourism and transport sector of Kashmir has been at the receiving end due to varied reasons . From political upheaval to the ragging pandemic of Coronavirus since more than one year have lent death blow to the tourism and transport sector of Kashmir .The transport and tourism sector related People are the worst hit as they are finding it difficult to meet the day to day needs. The Coronavirus pandemic has caused havoc .Although , Jammu and Kashmir government has come to the rescue of these tourism players. A package of $30 million (INR 3 crore) has been announced. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced the measure for those particularly hit due to the coronavirus pandemic.In this package, Rs 2,000 financial assistance will be provided to 4,444 registered shikara owners, 1,370 tourist guides, 6,663 ponywalas and 2,150 others including those who rent palanquins for yatris. The money will be paid for two months. The relief will be transferred to only those who are registered with the tourism department,” said an official release by the JK government.Although the tourism people still feel it is less.Transporters and their families are on brink of starvation .Transporters also recently urged authorities to provide them compensation, stating that the sector was worst-hit due to successive lockdowns for last three consecutive years. “The transports are worst affected. We have been facing the brunt of the successive lockdowns since 5 August,” General Secretary, Kashmir Welfare Transporters Association, Sheikh Muhammad Yusuf. “The drivers and conductors are pushed to the wall. Owners are not positioned differently either,” he said, adding, “The drivers and conductors are finding it extremely hard to make both ends meet. The need of the hour is that a very broad based and comprehensive financial package are announced in the favour of tourism and transport sector .It is worth mentioning here that delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) led by its President Sheikh Ashiq and Secretary-general Farooq Amin, met Advisor to Lt. Governor, Baseer Ahmad Khan and highlighted the crisis faced by the economically vulnerable sections of the society due to COVID lockdown.
The delegation also included presidents of other associations like trade, transport, tourism, and other allied sectors like Kashmir Traders and Manufactures Federation (KTMF), Federation chamber of industries Kashmir (FCIK), Houseboat Associations, who also highlighted these issues and briefed about the problems they are facing due to the prevailing situation, the Chamber said in a statement.
Title:- SPEAKING EYES By Monalisa Parida In the forest, a tree never dies
In a sea, a river never dies In air, a breath never dies
But I die, For the thoughts of your love.
Don’t worry, I will not be there tomorrow my love, Know this,
that I loved you as soon as you entered my world.
The depth of your eyes speak to me,
With all the languages of the world
And I become a polyglot.
Let me start my journey with you.
Full of energy, enthusiasm anew.
The journey is too long, Will complete with a song.
About Author Monalisa Parida is from India, Odisha .She is post graduate student of English literature and a prolific poetess. She’s very active in social media platforms and her poems have also been published in various e- journals and translated into different languages.
WILL THE US EXIT-STRATEGY FROM AFGHANISTAN WILL SUCCEED OR FALTER. SUHAIB ASHRAF BHAT. The US exit strategy without completely eradicating terrorism in the region can be equated with the US pack-up just after the Cold War in 1992. They left their most allied ally- Pakistan- at the mercy of terrorists in the offing- the former Mujahideens against the Soviet Union. These Mujahideens turned into the Taliban later and that cost of the US haste exit strategy was suffered by Pakistan. Death of Osama does not mean the end of terrorism. We would not like to go into the controversy of how and why the war on terror began and how best America could muster its results. But the fact remains that the mess created the US in the post-9/11 haste must not be left for Pakistan again. In a speech on April 14, President Joe Biden announced the withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan. “It is time to end the forever war,” he declared. Set to begin on May 1, the process will be completed by September 11, 2021, the 20th anniversary of 9/11. What are the implications for Afghanistan, the U.S., and the wider region? The American withdrawal of troops in Afghanistan has left essential questions of peace in Afghanistan in the air. Without human rights as the primary priority when exiting, there is a risk of violence against the most vulnerable members of society and a potential collapse of the government. The violence has continued in Afghanistan following President Biden’s announcement that American troops will be departing Afghanistan. On May 8th, 2021, a horrific bombing outside Sayed Ul-Shuhada high school is a reminder of the deadly conflict that will continue beyond the American departure. The violent attack is the deadliest attack in 2021. The Afghanistan Papers report by the Washington Post found that the American government and military officials failed to understand the necessary stabilization strategies and programs to tailor to Afghanistan. As a result, the stabilization in Afghanistan rarely lasted longer than where the coalition troops with physically located. While the stabilization efforts have been abysmal, the cost has been astronomical. According to a Brown University Study, the nearly decade-long war has cost the United States a total of 2.26 trillion dollars. It will continue to cost Americans upon their departure from the region. The Biden administration decision to disengage militarily from Afghanistan by September 11 may seem warranted, perhaps even overdue, after a commitment of two decades. After the Soviets bailed out of Afghanistan in 1989, the U.S. decided that it had little stake in what happened in the country and the region. Virtually all government assistance ceased. America decided to let the Afghans sort out their differences and left Pakistan, erstwhile partner in the jihad against communism, to fend for itself in coping with the fallout of the decade-long Afghan conflict. What America got in Afghanistan was a bloody, anarchic, fratricidal civil war, the rise of the Taliban and the settling in of Al-Qaeda.
For the first time in two decades, the United States says it will have no troops and contractors in Afghanistan and the CIA and Special Forces teams that have led the search for Al Qaeda’s remaining operatives will no longer work from bases in the eastern part of the country.In recent days, the Pentagon began a “retrograde” of its forces in the country, which include what it says are some 2,500 service members, a few hundred special operations troops and some 18,000 contractors. NATO is conducting its own drawdown. The withdrawal could be complete as early as July. President Biden placed a Sept. 11 deadline for the pullout, 20 years after the Al Qaeda terrorist attacks in the U.S.Biden administration officials say that the threat from Al Qaeda has been sharply reduced since the U.S. invasion in 2001 and that it will be possible to keep tabs on the militant groups in Afghanistan from outside the country. Even before Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden’s killing in 2011 in Pakistan, the group’s ranks were decimated and much of its leadership killed or captured. If a threat of a terrorist attack on the United States or its interests is detected, the Biden administration officials insist, the Pentagon or CIA could strike inside landlocked Afghanistan — with air attacks from faraway bases or Special Forces teams inserted on so-called “capture or kill missions.” “We will maintain an over-the-horizon capability to suppress future threats to the homeland,” Biden said in an address to Congress. He added that Afghanistan is no longer the only location from which militants threaten the U.S and its allies, naming Yemen, Syria, Somalia and “other places.” Fighter planes flying from aircraft carriers and longer-range bombers from air bases in the Persian Gulf, Indian Ocean and even the United States could strike insurgent fighters whose locations are fixed by surveillance drones, communications intercepts and informant networks. But many uncertainties remain about that strategy, including whether any of Afghanistan’s neighbours will agree to let the U.S. base forces or surveillance drones on their territory. If not, the U.S. will have to rely on forces operating from American bases in the Persian Gulf. Al Qaeda of 2021 is a far smaller organization with less reach, while the United States has built a counter-terrorism capability and familiarity with Afghanistan far exceeding anything it had before 2001. “There will be some degradation in terms of our ability to know exactly what’s going on,” Zalmay Khalilzad, the administration’s negotiator on Afghanistan, told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “But we believe, given the nature of the threat right now that we would get adequate warning.” Al Qaeda has fewer than 200 members in south Asia, most of them in Afghanistan, Lt. Gen. Scott Berrier, the head of the Defence Intelligence Agency, said. The group’s second-ranking leader, Ayman Zawahiri, though suffering severe health problems, is still believed to be alive, hiding possibly in Afghanistan, while other leaders are said to be in Iran, according to the agency. “There was little discernible activity out of the group” last year and “throughout 2021, [Al Qaeda] very likely will be unable to conduct terrorist attacks,” Berrier added, in written testimony to the Senate Armed Services Committee. Instead, the group will “bolster its relationship with the Taliban.” That relationship is the core U.S. concern.Under the terms of a 2020 withdrawal agreement with the Trump administration, the Taliban vowed to prevent Afghan territory under its control from being used by terrorist groups to launch attacks on the U.S. and its allies. U.S. officials insist that the deal requires the Taliban to sever its ties with Al Qaeda, but U.S. intelligence officials do not expect that to occur. What happens to that deal after Biden delayed Trump’s May 1 withdrawal date is unclear. Despite publicly distancing themselves from Al Qaeda in private talks with U.S. officials, the Taliban “very likely maintains close ties with the militants at the local level, often through family ties due to years of intermarriage” in Afghanistan and Pakistan, said a senior U.S. official familiar with intelligence assessments about the relationship. A statement posted on the “Voice of Jihad” Taliban website in October said the group had no obligation to sever ties with Al- Qaeda under the U.S.-Taliban deal, the official noted. Taliban representatives, however, insist they can contain any extremists on Afghan soil. “Al Qaeda was in Afghanistan before Taliban. All those countries now complaining about them supported them at the time of the Soviet invasion, and we now inherited them,” said Suhail Shaheen, a Taliban representative in Qatar.
We as a whole have obligation to secure endangered species
Dar Showkat
Endangered Species Day 2021: This year sixteenth yearly Endangered Species Day is observed. Allow us to view the set of experiences behind this day, how could it be praised, and about endangered species. Endangered Species can be perceived as the creatures that are on high danger of annihilation. There are numerous endangered types of plants and creatures worldwide that are in harm’s way. There are different reasons that cause the elimination of these species like the limitation of living space, abuse of these species for business purposes, illnesses, unfriendly climatic conditions, and so forth The IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) is the specialists that keeps a nearby watch on various species and figures out what species care lose to termination. IUCN assess different components to decide endangered species like decrease, size of the populace, space of geographic conveyance, and so on there are a ton of endeavors going on across the world to save endangered species. There could be numerous purposes behind the termination of jeopardized species however one of the significant reasons is loss of living space. Concurred or not yet the deficiency of natural surroundings has been brought about by people for advancement. This gigantic improvement has upset the natural life biological system seriously. Whatever is the explanation yet the truth of the matter is that now the security of these imperiled species is one of the need issues across the globe. A significant number of us may imagine that why securing endangered species is significant. Indeed, there are numerous advantages to saving these imperiled species. The contention is going on around the world “why securing endangered species are significant”. One basic goal of securing endangered species is the delight of people in the future. It is a ton of joy and amusing to observe such superb creatures. Sadly, the species that are going to be terminated won’t be accessible for people in the future. They won’t interface with these species. The lone wellspring of getting data about these endangered species will be through the web or books.
Endangered Species Day 2021: Because of COVID-19, it is praised through online occasions, computerized activities and individual exercises. The day furnishes us with a chance for all periods of individuals to notice and find out about the imperiled species and the approaches to secure them. The day spread mindfulness about the significance of securing imperiled species, their natural surroundings and to make moves important to ensure them. Consequently, Endangered Species Day perceives the public preservation endeavors to ensure our country’s jeopardized species and their natural surroundings. A few occasions and youth challenge are held at different natural life shelters, zoos, parks, public venues, aquariums, greenhouses, libraries, schools and universities and so on. In 1960s and 1970s worry over the prosperity of creatures with climate and preservation came out. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 was endorsed into law on 28 December to raise the significance of untamed life preservation and rebuilding endeavours for all risked species. It is said that the Endangered Species Day was first made by U.S. Senate in 2006.
Around then a few endeavours were made to save species and because of it around many species from elimination were saved like the bald eagle. As per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), in the previous twenty years, the rundown of imperiled species has dramatically increased. “Endangered species are our companions.” – (Yao Ming)
What qualifies animal types as Endangered?
Distinctive government and neighborhood associations have their own measures of choosing for species that it is imperiled or not. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) keeps up the most far reaching rundown of imperiled species all throughout the planet. The Red List of Threatened Species passes judgment on every species on five unique guidelines.
Regular factors that lead to elimination are:
1. Human intercession
2. Loss of territory
3. Introduction of unfamiliar species into the climate.
“Conservation of any endangered species must begin with stringent efforts to protect its natural habitat by the enforcement of rigid legislation against human encroachment into parks and other game sanctuaries.”- Dian Fossey
Biodiversity is produced with two words specifically “organic” and “variety”. It alludes to all the assortment of life that can be found on Earth might be plants, creatures, growths and miniature life forms. Just as to the networks that they structure and the natural surroundings in which they live. Show on Biological Diversity characterizes biodiversity as the inconstancy among living organic entities from all sources including entomb alia, earthly, marine and other amphibian environments and the natural edifices of which they are part; this incorporates variety inside species, among species and of biological systems. Biodiversity isn’t just the amount, everything being equal, species and hereditary material yet in addition it addresses the fluctuation inside and among them. Thus, this is an ideal opportunity to be ready and we should together pursue producing mindfulness among the general population about the significance of untamed life, jeopardized species, biodiversity and protection. Why jeopardized species are at the skirt of elimination? What are the explanations for it? It is important to get it. Most likely elimination is a characteristic wonder of nature however because of some different reasons; termination is expanding a very long time in many years. One day can come when we won’t see tigers, elephants, falcons and so on.
“We all have a responsibility to protect endangered species, both for their sake and for the sake of our own future generations.” The writer is research scholar from Handwara
You may called it freedom or liberty but the fact is that everyone wants to do whatever he or she wants. No body wants to be bound by laws, whether natural or man-made. But the most important thing is that are we ready free to do, whatever we want to do or not. In my opinion, looking at the creation of the universe, it is impossible to do, without rules and regulations. Let us look at this through different angles. First is God’s creation. The Sun, the Moon, the planets and all other celestial bodies are bound by some fixed laws. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west. The Earth is at appropriate distance from the Sun and other stars and planets. Seasons come and go without a slight mistake. Everything follows some rules that allow peace reign in. No inanimate thing makes a slight effort to go against the Creator who has kept it where It is. So, the natural things are a testimony that freedom is here but in limited sense, which the Creator has given them according to the divine plan. Second is diversity. As we are aware of this fact that this world is fight between good and evil. The main motive of goodness is that every living organism remains where it is. Any deviation from that path, can prove disastrous. Human beings have been made in such a way that he always tries to throw the chains in which he is bound. But the experience shows that whenever it happens, it brings misery in the world. Evil wherever reigns, there are cent percent chances that the natural order is thrown to winds. We have examples of genetic mutations, nuclear experiments, worship others other than Almighty, trying to build another world of their choice, etc., has brought untold misery to the world. The First World War, the Second World War, the Syrian Civil War, etc., are glaring examples that can bring us closer to the fact that life is suitable when it is bound by rules and regulations. Third is Almighty also wants us to follow Him. He is our Creator. He knows our creation. So, it makes us no sense that creation goes against the wishes of the Creator. The machine is bound to follow his master. Whenever machine goes against the plan of the master, the machine is either repaired or it is discarded forever. This applies to human beings as well. The grand design of the universe says that the Creator has created or made us as machines. Until, we work according to His plan, nothing awkward happens. The very moment we try to put away the yoke of Allah’s rules and regulations,, we are bound to fail. Moreover, He has sent many chosen-messengers to repair human beings so that they may come back to the original path. If this does not happen, then Almighty discards us in the most brutal manner. Fourth and last is what is the motive behind living. If a person knows why he or she has taken birth, many issues are automatically solved. A meaningful life means that it is sinful to harm anything, whether living or nonliving deliberately. It means not to sacrifice permanent things for temporary things. Permanency means that it is better to remain in limited for long term gains than to break the laws, which have been imposed by the Almighty. So, meaning in life means that we are forced to obey laws for the mass gain. In short, that life is worthy of living, which is full of rules and regulations. Now, the ball is in our court to decide whether to be a law-abiding or lawbreaking person. Let us ponder over it!
In the new look Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir the hopes since recent times are of good governance which had alluded masses in the erstwhile State . Although the pandemic of Coronavirus has made progress of people and Government a big challenge as it is ravaging in entire country including Jammu and Kashmir .But still there are steps being taken to ensure good governance in the Jammu and Kashmir region.Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha recently released “Annual Report- Promoting Good Governance” compiled by the Finance Department showcasing major initiatives undertaken by the said Department during 2020-21 to bring transparency and accountability in the execution of the public works.
A statement issued said that Arun Kumar Mehta, Financial Commissioner, Finance Department; and Nitishwar Kumar, Principal Secretary to the Lt Governor were present on the occasion.
The report in the form of e-Book provides insight into reforms, steps implemented by the Finance Department to institutionalize prudence in financial management in J&K which has truly transformed the Union Territory. On the otherhand , The document captures the essence of reforms such as online processing of bills through PaySys, streamlining of GST, e-stamping, e-GRAS, e-auction of Liquor licences for retail outlets, digital payments, implementation of GeM, path-breaking reforms in J&K Bank, publication of important manuals relating to Budget and Audit, Back to Village and My Town My Pride initiatives and 100% physical verification which is most vital initiative to ensure implementation of projects without cost and time over-runs.One hopes despite many challenges Jammu and Kashmir takes strides towards good governance.
Unexplored Tourism Destinations of Ramban District
Syed Aamir Sharief Qadri
The famous Persian couplet of Amir Khusrau attributed to Emperor Jahangir is frequently used by everyone to define the beauty of Kashmir.Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast Trans: If there is a paradise on earth It is this, it is this, it is thisThough these lines were not written to illustrate the magnificence of Kashmir but it was Jahangir who used these words to describe valley as paradise on the earth. What he exclaimed is very true about Kashmir. But it seems-The beauty of other parts of J&K didn’t attract the great Mughals?They also didn’t know what is on the other side of the Pir Panjal?Keeping in view the difficulty of times they had lived, it is simple to answer these questions. Today we have a great technology at our disposal; still, we are unable to locate beautiful places in our surroundings. We even don’t know how many popular lakes, meadows and side valleys surround our Union Territory. What about those unexplored beauty spots that are hidden between lofty peaks. In a bountiful manner the state of J&K has been blessed with uncountable natural resources. Between surfaces of the earth to the top of the snow laden mountains everything is beautiful. From Trans Himalayan Ladakh to Jammu plains the region is painted with many colors.Like every district in J&K, Ramban also got its share when God was distributing valuable gifts in the form of picturesque meadows, lakes, rivers and springs. While travelling on NH 44 that passes through Ramban district people usually recall the horrors of Panthal, Digdol, Kela Mod, Khoni Nallah etc. This road presents a dangerous look and claims many lives every year. To enter safe zones people drive their vehicles very fast and cross risky points in a short span of time. They don’t know the road that cut mountains in the middle, are full of beautiful meadows at top. Let me tell the people who cross this road half-heartedly- “Don’t bow your head anymore. Open your heart to look at the top of these mountains and feel the fragrance of multi-color flowers to make your journey comfortable”.The local people name hilly terrains of Pir Panjal by different terms. For example, the mountain top is known as Maal. The loft peak is called Daar/ Dhar. The pass that connects one area to another is known as Gali. The plain meadow is named as Madaan. The people move their cattle (Mal) to upper reaches in summer season for grazing purpose. These grazing lands are called Baas. Some important tourist destinations of district Ramban are as under-1. Zaban Hill Station, Nilpal Lamber and Thandi ChhahThe scenic meadow of Zaban is located about 5 kms from the national highway from Nowgam (Banihal). The panoramic view of village Khairkoot in Sanglaab valley from the top of Zaban hill station is marvelous. The Bichleri rivulet in Zaban forms lovely waterfall. Zaban is a part of cacaw reserve. Hence a wide variety of wildlife can be seen here. Nilpal Lamber is situated at a distance of about 5 kms from Banihal railway station connected with a motor able road. The sloping meadows, waterfall, spring and streams make this place very charming. Thandi-chhah is 10 kms away from Banihal town. This scenic spot has two parallel streams flowing on either side of the vast meadows.2. Moh Mangith and Adjoining Areas.The twin villages of Moh Mangith are located at a distance of about 45 km from Banihal Town. Its tehsil head quarter is Khari just 5 kms from Nachlana, situated on National Highway. The pahari speaking people of Moh Mangith are culturally more close to Kashmir valley as compared to Jammu region. Though this area is not connected by road with Kashmir but still they prefer to cross just one huge mountain to reach Dandward- Chimer area of district Kulgam. Recently the area was connected to its sub district Banihal through road. Now people don’t need to traverse huge mountain to reach Kashmir for business purpose. The extreme ravishing beauty with gorgeous streamlets and creeks make this area much beautiful. The glamorous meadows are studded with bubbling springs and unique flora and fauna. The beautiful cascades on sprawling rivulets present an elegant look. The slopes are decorated with pine, fir, and deodar forests and mountains with grimy glaciers. Among the other places of equal importance it is necessary to add few more neighboring places to list. Damantrag, Aramnakh, Pathalan, Gudbeir, Nawan, Mohri, Trajbal, Ratan, etc. are worth mentioning. Damantrag is a beautiful meadow at an altitude of about 3450 meter. The snow cover remains for more than six months.3. Neel Top and Pogal ParistanThe impressive Neel Top is located at a distance of 25 kms from Banihal town. This place is situated at an elevation of about 2000 meter above mean sea level and can be visited by two routes. One route leads from Chamalwas and another from Magarkote. Both of these routes fall in Jammu- Srinagar national highway. The heights of Pir Panjal present a majestic glance. At top one can feel every moment very closely. The overhead floating clouds, bright sunshine, cold breeze that touches soft skin, and sometimes fog and terrifying dark clouds shroud you in such a way that it becomes difficult to move on. One can feel all these things at Neel top also. Neel top provides base for many trekking expeditions such as Wasa Marg, Ejan-tragh, Chang Top, Hals-dhar, Bari-naal, Zaradi, Devita-dhar, Wanbara, Hansraj pass, Perhinder, Daganbass, Sargali, Yamul Top, Mayalsar, Nandimarg, etc. Pogal-Paristan- The land of fairies is situated about 23 kms from Banihal. The tehsil head quarter is located at Ukhral just 8 kms from National Highway via Magarkote. Pogli is the main language of the area. They also speak Kashmiri and Gojri. The famous pogli-geet locally called Chan is sung by both men and women on special occasions. One can enjoy this song while roving freely in the lovely meadows of Pogal Paristan. The two rivers- Pogali nallah (Sundari) and Paristan nallah further adds beauty to verdant meadows. There are streams which provide comfort by producing burbling and tuneful sounds. The spectacular meadows are spread over a vast area. Some popular spots include Nandimarg, Mayalsar Lake, Yamal Top, Sargali, Gogli dhar (Sunseri), Devhira, Gagan Top, Sarvadhar, Hansraj peak, etc. Some of these places can be visited from Kapran (Verinag) area of district Anantnag. There is a vast meadow at Sargali which serves as playing ground for local youth. One can have a pleasant view of Pogal on one side and Banihal on other side from top. At Sarvadhar there is a famous 400 year old temple of Chamunda Mata which can be reached through a village called Senabati. From beautiful Kharwan plateau one can have a majestic view of entire Neel and Paristan areas. During Dogra rule a Fort was constructed there named Pogal Qilla. But today you can see only debris of this ruined fort.4. Gool Gulabgad, Dagan Top and Bhatni village.In the lap of lofty mountains, Gool tehsil is located 55 kms from Ramban. Some important tourist attractions of the place are Dagan Top, Hajam Marg, Jabar Sar, Gooda gali, Ramakunda, Mazamkunda, Tata Pani, Bhatni village, Ladha Dhar, etc. All these places are located in the vicinity of Gool town. The swirling cool breeze envelops the meadows of Dagan Top. This place offers a picturesque view of Gool town. At an elevation of about 2000 meter this place separates Ramban from Reasi. It is situated about 10 kms from Gool on Gool-Mahore road. At short distance a trek from Dagan top leads to forest covered meadow of Hajam Marg. At a distance of few kms from Gool, Jabar valley is surrounded by green trees and meadows. There is a small marshy lake called Jabar Sar. Gooda Gali is a heritage site famous for stone carved objects. The stones are engraved extensively and art is depicted in various forms. The popular form of art is number of beautifully trimmed horse sculptures decorated with different motifs, on which some riders are sitting on a horse back. Other things of attraction include religious scenes of different Hindu gods, feudal setup in which kings, queens and princes dominate the stage, etc. The hot water of sulphur spring at Tatapani is believed to possess extraordinary healing power to cure diseases like dermatitis and arthritis. Large number of people from J&K visits this spring every year. Bhatni village is about 32 kms from District head quarter Ramban. At top of village, on fascinating Ladha Dhar range the famous Shankpal temple is located which is famous pilgrimage center. Bhatnimela is held every year in the month of August starting from Nag Panchmi. The centuries old ritual dance Kud is performed in honor of lok devtas by people on these days.Scope for Adventure TourismThe promising tourist resorts of Pogal Paristan, Gool Gulabgad, and Moh Mangith have a great potential for adventure tourism. The majority of sites with beautiful landscape mentioned above are fit for summer and winter sports. The popular sports like snow sledges, paragliding, and skiing can be easily done here. MountaineeringDue to wide range of hills and mountains the local people love to conquer different peaks of the region. Some popular heights of district include Moh Peak, Reyod Peak, Hansraj Peak, Yamal Top, Gagan Top, etc. At top of Reyod peak, a concrete pillar is said to have been constructed by Britishers for unknown reasons before independence. This pillar is popularly known as Angrez Thumb.Trekking and CampingWalking on moderate to difficult paths, by covering grasslands, forests and rocky surface, in search of relaxed meadows, when someone pitch tent on best camping ground along the river beds, he can relish best moments of life. Camping and night stay is very enjoyable at highlands during summer season. Some appropriate bases for trekking are as follows-Neel Top- While starting a trek from Neel top one can explore large number of astonishing places. The whole area of Pogal Paristan and some areas close to Kashmir valley can be visited easily.Moh-Mangith- These two places serve a base camp for many treks. A few of these treks help trekkers to reach Danew Kandimarg area of Kashmir valley. Bhaajkote- The trek from Bhaajkote passes through beautiful places such as Mudushera, Sarvadahar and ends at Pogal Paristan. Bhatni village- This village provides a campground for many trails. One such trail from Bhatni village passes through Shankpal top to reach Sanasar area of Patnitop. People and CultureThe most beautiful thing about Pahari speaking people is- They are straight forward cooperative people. With simple food and dress, they live prosperous life. Living in natural environs they are much dependent on natural resources. Throughout the year people gather necessary products (Jadi Booti) from forests that cure some common diseases. Like healthy environment their hearts are alive, full of warmth. Free from greed they don’t love worldly things. They are God fearing people and staunchly believe in salvation through prayers. With the melting of snow in upper reaches they shift along with their cattle to settle in Dhokhs, where they live in Kothas for few months. Mostly they use wild variety of vegetables that are found in abundance. The popular dish include a variety of things consumed together such as they take bread made of maize floor known as Makai Chot, along with vegetables and a special type of curd known as Gurus.Valuable suggestionsThe real beauty of district Ramban is found on the upper reaches of hill tops. Most tourist spots are unexplored and lack some basic facilities such as road connectivity, electricity, drinking water, lodges, hotels and cafes. There is a need to gear up developmental programme in these unexplored locations so that it can benefit local people by creating a number of jobs. Besides tourism government must think how to uplift the downtrodden people living on mountain slopes. To eradicate poverty from the region it is necessary to exploit these beauty spots at maximum for the common good of people. With the huge inflow of tourists the local art and crafts will flourish as well. The government should endorse distinct culture of people by promoting local language and literature, music and dance, fairs and festivals, folk dances, etc.
Bio LineSyed Aamir Sharief Qadri is from J&K. He has completed post-graduation in History from the University of Kashmir and obtained an M.Phil. at Punjabi University Patiala. He also qualified JKSET in 2016. Currently, he works as a freelance writer for different newspapers as a guest writer. His articles got published in many leading newspapers .
Bashir Ahmad Nadwi, Athrout Chairman in an exclusive interview with News Kashmir When it comes to helping people of Kashmir in trying circumstances of current pandemic Coronavirus to other Disasters Athrout as an NGO and organisation is a name worth praise .Bashir Ahmad Nadwi is chairman of Athrout, a prominent philanthropic organization and charitable trust of Kashmir. In an exclusive interview with The News Kashmir, he talks to Rameez Makhdoomi and Farzana Mumtaz.How would you describe the last year as compared to current one in terms of Coronavirus situation in Kashmir ?Last year when the first case was reported from Khanyar area of Srinagar people shut their doors and were confined . There was lot of fear that time , but this year we saw Gardens were opened and people thronged these spots without following preacuations. Today the result is with us the cases of Coronavirus are rising in the Kashmir valley and the transmission is deep in community . We need to reinstall the fear so that the chain can be broken as soon as possible. Athrout has collaborated with the Srinagar administration, and converted the Haj house building into a spacious 100- bed plus Covid Centre . A bit on that ?We have seen in places like Delhi , Mumbai , Gujrat , Bengaluru etc people dying for the want of oxygen. Even those who get oxygen due to overcrowded hospitals have to take it on streets and on roadsides as visible from heart rending images and videos . We don’t want such situation for our dear people in Kashmir and to face the emergency arising out of Coronavirus we have set up the Haj House 100 bed Covid wellness center so that people get oxygen and other treatment in an quality manner . This is to meet the overcrowded nature of hospitals.Is there a shortage of volunteers faced by your organisation due to ravaging pandemic Coronavirus ?See, this is not flood or earthquake like situation. The situation this time is much worse as it looks enemy in form of Coronavirus is everywhere . We can’t force anyone in this situation to be volunteer. No doubt we are facing dearth of volunteers but still we are coping with the situation ably .Has the NGO coordination improved ?The coordination between NGOs has improved . But on oxygen front we all NGOs are overstretched and are not able to meet the demand . As far as food kits or medicine is concerned coordination is there . It is painful that we are not able to get desired oxygen concentrators due to shortfall in supply currently .Can our hospitals tackle this emergency like situation arising out of rising pandemic Coronavirus?I forsee that considering the huge increase in Coronavirus cases it would be difficult to meet the needs of patients . The need of the hour is that the NGOs and social organizations convert marriage halls and community centers into Covid wellness centers wherein patients can be provided oxygen supply .Athrout had many welfare oriented programmes , has Coronavirus pandemic impacted them in any way ?We are catering to monthly medicine , monthly cash , monthly household ,monthly education under these four categories we are helping 750 families . We are also running subsidised pharmacy and also ambulance service.Do you feel any crunch of donations due to economic crunch in the society ?The dearth of donation is there .From last two to three years the situation is real bad economy vise and we are not getting desired level of donations but still we are getting donations that makes us fulfil the basic needs of the needy .What is your appeal to people of Kashmir?The need of the hour is people follow the religious teaching and don’t leave their home unless it is real emergency . By roaming out without purpose you are putting entire family into risk.It is prophetic ruling to stay at homes during pandemic. What role do you see of Masjid Committees ?The primary concern is this time oxygen and even the organised NGOs are not able to get these oxygen concentrators despite trying from even the countries like China and USA. The Masjid Committees have no role in this, yes providing food kits and economic help to needy they surely can play an important role.Your appeal to people on vaccination especially those who are hesitant?Even for undergoing Haj pilgrimage which is basic pillar of Islam one has to go for Covid vaccination now. Today world is era of science and knowledge is of paramount importance in Islam so we have to go for vaccination. The only magic drug against Coronavirus is vaccination and people may get positive but once we are completely vaccination most likely we won’t need a ventilator or oxygen concentrator.We have very few organisation like Athrout in Kashmir , isn’t it a hurdle for us ?Yes we need many organisations that render services to humanity in Kashmir. The point is all organisation according to their stature and resources should use their potential to fullest and help those in need .Aren’t some people taking undue advantage of pandemic Coronavirus ?It goes against teachings of faith and religion what some of selfish ,callous hearted humans are doing in our society despite ravaging pandemic Coronavirus. There is lot of black marketing going on , Some had sold fire extinguishers as oxygen cylinders some are selling ordinary not so purified oxygen cylinders at abnormal prices .The need is to discard such inhuman elements.You watch situation on every second bases ,what is your take on coming days scenario for Kashmir in terms of pandemic Coronavirus?Even the worst ravaged places in India are yet not seeing peak of the Coronavirus and we are I guess still away from peak of pandemic. We should pray to Almighty Allah to safeguard us as he is our lone hope in this situation of dire straits.
Austere FestivityRameez Makhdoomi Today pandemic Coronavirus is ravaging entire India and cases in Lacs are reported daily and thousands are dying . Jammu and Kashmir is also seeing huge spiral in cases with thousands reported on daily bases and scores dying . This week we have many holy festivals in Offing as the holy month of Ramadan is coming to end. On Friday 14 May, 2021 The holy and joyful festival of Eid al Fitr is being celebrated with full fervour, zeal and zest . This year we are celebrating Eid in the background of ravaging global Pandemic Coronavirus which has wrecked havoc in India in recent times and killed millions and Infected crores throughout the world. Eid al-Fitr also called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast”, is a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan. This religious Eid is the first and only day in the month of Shawwal during which Muslims are not permitted to fast. The date for the start of any lunar Hijri month varies based on when the new moon is sighted by local religious authorities, so the day of celebration varies by locality.
The need of the hour is we spend very less on this Eid and keep much for the poor hit hard by the pandemic Coronavirus.
Religious personalities are also advising that we should celebrate Eid with utmost simplicity . The expert pulse is that we have to follow precautions religiously to keep the curve flat so that health infrastructure can’t be overburden which is already overstretched.The Coronavirus cases are already rising in Jammu and Kashmir by “overcrowding” or not following protocols, the virus can spread like a wildfire.We should limit spending on too much shopping or on any other extravaganza as this can cause further havoc . The need is to help those whose economy or source of living has been hit hard by the pandemic . This pandemic also should make us introspect while even celebrating . In his Ramadan Dairy eminent writer and Gender Justice activist Mushtaq ul Haq Ahmad Sikander writes :” Ramadan Diary How do we know that Allah is not happy with us? When we do not offer our prayers and defer our obligations. Corona pandemic maybe a symptom that Almighty is not happy with us as we have filled the world with our transgressions. We continue to commit grave atrocities against ourselves and others. The way we all have been stopped from praying in masjids, synagogues, churches, temples and places where his name was chanted and we bowed before him is a manifestation of the fact that Almighty does not consider us worthy enough to visit him. Ramadan is a reminder to all of us that we should mend our relations with Almighty through sincere repentance, asking forgiveness and further make a commitment that we will not commit transgression against others, destroy nature and pollute the environment. Undoubtedly, the need is to do introspection and celebrate festivals in simple and austere way.
Pouring Global Aid for Coronavirus Pandemic Ravaged India The second wave of Coronavirus pandemic has ravaged India and caused huge number of deaths with daily cases going in Lacs . The crisis that has engulfed entire India is huge . But amid pale gloom there is good news too, the rising global solidarity with India in form of Global Aid. India received 3000 oxygen concentrators as international relief aid and it was clarified on recently by the Indian Customs that they have swiftly cleared all consignments and there is no such pendency with Indian Customs.Various countries contributed in the global aid and 3000 oxygen concentrators have been received to support the country’s efforts to fight against the deadly second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. Mauritius has sent 200 oxygen concentrators, Russia (20), UK has sent in four consignments (95+120+280+174), 80 from Romania, 700 from Ireland, Thailand (30), China (1000) and Uzbekistan (151). In addition, Taiwan has sent 150. The oxygen concentrators are either delivered to the identified tertiary care institutions, or been dispatched for delivery. The relief material has been dispatched through road and air too. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, there are no oxygen contractors lying in the warehouse of the Customs Department.One hopes that the level of Global support would continue and India emerges from this pandemic soon.On the other hand , The ministry in the statement said that the Indian Customs is working 24X7 and the Relief Goods are given high priority for clearance over other goods. “The Indian Customs is sensitive to the need for availability of Covid related imports including Oxygen & Oxygen related equipment etc,” officials said.
