Significant climate milestones of 2023

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Significant climate milestones of 2023

Vijay GarG

Vijay GarG Retired Principal Educational columnist malout Punjab
From registering the hottest summer on record to some significant steps at the yearly United Nations climate summit, 2023 was a year of extremes. Here are some climate-related milestones from this time.
Hottest year: The year is all but set to be declared the hottest in history. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), 2023 was 0.1°C warmer than the 10-month average for 2016, currently the warmest calendar year on record, and 1.43°C warmer than the pre-industrial reference period from January to October.
Highest sea surface temperature ever: Marine heat waves – periods when ocean temperatures are warmer than 90% of prior observations for a given time of year were widespread in 2023. According to the U.S. National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 48% of global oceans experienced them in August 2023. Global sea surface temperatures (SST) are usually highest in March. But per C3S data, global average SSTs remained at record highs throughout April, May, June, and July 2023.
Lowest Antarctic sea ice extent: Sea-ice extent is the area of ice covering the Antarctic Ocean at a given time. In 2023, Antarctic sea ice had record low ice growth from April. According to NOAA, sea ice in the Antarctic reached an annual maximum extent of 16.96 million sq. km on September 10, 2023, the lowest since 1979. This year’s maximum was 1.03 million sq. km, below the previous record low set in 1986.
Record carbon dioxide levels: Global carbon dioxide emissions are expected to have hit a new high in 2023, up 1.1% from 2022. The Global Carbon Budget Report, published in December 2023, said overall CO2 emissions, which climbed to a record last year, had plateaued in 2023 due to a slight drop in deforestation.
Loss and damage fund: The world’s first loss and damage fund for the impacts of climate change was created in 2023, at the start of the COP28 climate talks in the U.A.E. in early December. The fund will be based at the World Bank but managed by an independent secretariat. According to a senior U.N. official, it has received pledges of $792 million from governments, which is a lot but still well short of the billions required to fulfil its purpose.
Impact of food systems: For the first time in the history of climate summits, 134 countries at COP28 pledged to tackle the climate impact of the food industry. These countries represent over 5.7 billion people, 70% of the food we eat, nearly 500 million farmers, and 76% of total emissions from the global food system. But observers noted the declaration doesn’t include quantitative targets.
Vijay GarG Retired Principal Educational columnist malout  from my iPhone

Advocate Syed Junaid Sadaat interview,1 January 2024 issue

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Kashmiri Youth Have immense potential: Advocate Syed Junaid Sadaat
Chairman White Globe NGO, Renowned Advocate and Social activist Advocate Syed Junaid Sadaat is a well known youth face of Jammu and Kashmir.
In an exclusive interview with news Kashmir Syed Junaid Sadaat talks to Editor in Chief  Farzana Mumtaz.
Farzana Mumtaz (FM): Advocate Syed Junaid Sadaat, Chairman of White Globe NGO, Renowned Advocate, and Social Activist, you’ve become a prominent youth face in Jammu and Kashmir. Can you briefly share your journey with us?
Advocate Syed Junaid Sadaat (AJS): Certainly, Farzana. I hail from Shopian District and underwent a transformative journey from Muhamaddiya School in Chanpora to Woodland School in Srinagar, where I completed my law studies. My professional journey started as a standing counsel for government departments, but about five years ago, I transitioned to focus more on social work. Through White Globe, we’ve undertaken various projects addressing societal challenges
FM: It’s commendable that you’re actively contributing to societal betterment. Can you elaborate on some of the projects undertaken by White Globe?
AJS: Absolutely. We initiated projects ranging from raising awareness about the drug menace to empowering women and combating domestic violence. Our project “Kinara” aims to help orphan children acquire essential handicraft skills. Notably, we’ve established a unique behavioral assessment center for specially-abled children facing autism and cerebral palsy, a cause close to my heart
FM: I understand you filed a significant PIL related to ambulances. Could you provide some insights into that?
AJS: Ambulances are crucial for our healthcare system. In 2018, we filed a PIL highlighting the need for hassle-free ambulance movement, specific SOPs, trained drivers, and improvements in both urban and rural healthcare. The government admitted drawbacks, and currently, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir is overseeing efforts to enhance the ambulance system.
FM: Addressing gender injustice is a complex challenge. How do you believe it can be effectively tackled?
AJS: Gender injustice, particularly against women, is deeply rooted in our patriarchal society. I believe fostering mutual respect between couples can significantly diminish gender injustice.
FM: Working closely with the youth, are you optimistic about their future in Kashmir?
AJS: Absolutely. The youth in Kashmir possess immense potential. They exhibit profound knowledge across various subjects and excel in diverse fields, making me optimistic about their future contributions.
FM: There’s a debate on the extent of the drug menace in Kashmir. What is your perspective on this matter?
AJS: While I believe figures might be slightly exaggerated, the situation is indeed concerning. I’ve personally witnessed cases of entire families succumbing to dangerous drug addiction, including the alarming rise of synthetic drugs. If left unchecked, we risk facing a scenario similar to “Udtaa Punjab
FM: Old age homes, unfortunately, have become a necessity. Could you elaborate on their relevance in Kashmir?
AJS: Regrettably, old age homes are relevant in Kashmir due to a shift away from traditional values, necessitating alternative care for the elderly
FM: Lastly, what message do you have, especially for the youth?
AJS: My message to the youth is to steer clear of vices such as alcohol, adultery, and drug addiction. Following the teachings of Islam can bring peace and enable positive contributions in various fields.
FM: Thank you, Advocate Syed Junaid Sadaat, for sharing your insights and the impactful work you’re doing in the community.
AJS: It’s my pleasure, Farzana. Thank you for having me

Jantar Mantar March Commemorates Nari Shakti Vandan Adiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill) Passage and Advocate for Swift Implementation

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Jantar Mantar March Commemorates Nari Shakti Vandan Adiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill) Passage and Advocate for Swift Implementation
Stresses swift women Reservation implementation in Jammu and Kashmir
New Delhi, 8 December 2023 – In a big stride towards women Reservation in India, on December 8, 2023 marked a momentous occasion as we rallied in solidarity and determination, marching to Jantar Mantar to commemorate the historic passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill. Our purpose was clear – to advocate for immediate measures ensuring the swift and effective implementation of this groundbreaking legislation. This historic march united a coalition of distinguished women organizations, including Women Power Connect, Centre for Social Research, Stree Shakti- The Parallel Force, CEQUIN, A.Ni.S. I,U & We, Gyan Gangotri, Angaja Foundation, Action India, and others, representing a diverse spectrum of voices committed to women’s empowerment. Delegates from Surat, Kolkata, Srinagar,among others brought an all-India perspective to the gathering.
WPC, CSR, and dynamic personality
Rekha Mody active since four decades fighting for women Reservation in elected bodies of India and training women for leadership roles.
In this regard,
Recognizing the historical approval of the bill, we believe that its genuine influence rests on efficient execution, demanding a joint commitment from all political parties and the government alike. On this momentous day, they raised 3 major demands that espouse the efficient implementation of the Bill-
Immediate Implementation in Jammu and Kashmir: Ms. Rekha Mody from Stree Shakti, Kolkata, and Ms. Farzana Mumtaz, Media owner, Srinagar, with others, advocate for an immediate implementation of 33% reservation in Jammu and Kashmir, where delimitation has occurred. We believe the stage is set for the government to demonstrate its genuine commitment to bringing political gender equality into practice.
2. Comprehensive Political Training Initiatives: Ms. Gita Shroff from A.Ni.S. I,U & We organisations, Surat, with others, endorse comprehensive training initiatives designed specifically for aspiring women leaders entering state and legislative assemblies. This endorsement underscores the imperative of empowering women with specialized political knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of their roles effectively and ensure their incubation into the political system to be supplemented with competence and confidence.
3. Mandatory Reservation in 2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Dr. Rajana Kumari from Women Power Connect, CSR, Ms. Laura Prabhu from Cequin, Dr. Naresh Mudgal from Naari Sena, and Ms. Padmini kumar from JWP with others, propose a compelling directive urging political parties to enforce a mandatory 33% reservation for women contestants in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections within their respective jurisdictions. Through this strategic initiative, we seek to orchestrate a significant advancement towards gender parity in electoral representation. We aspire to create a transformative shift in political dynamics, fostering a more balanced and
representative democratic process that genuinely reflects the diversity of our nation. And that begins with the political parties taking initiative.
Let all the stakeholders come together in this pivotal moment to propel the Women’s Reservation Bill beyond mere legal framework, transforming it into a cornerstone development that unlocks the boundless potential of women leaders across our nation. Let us collectively embrace this historic juncture, working hand in hand to usher in a new era where the bill serves as a driving force, empowering and amplifying the voices of women leaders on a national scale.
Rekha Mody,  eminent face of India and a name to recon with as far as ensuring  Reservation of women in Assemblies and Parliament is considered and also heading eminent organizations
She Leads and Stree Shakti observed ” It is heartening that women Reservation in elected bodies is now a reality. But, since we have had successful delimitation in Jammu and Kashmir, and in rest of the country it is not possible to have delimitation before 2026 ,so implementing wonen  Reservation here is next logical step. The parties should identify women leaders in Jammu and Kashmir and give them mandate in upcoming parliament and assembly election. As far as training of women leaders is considered we have many institutions in country and organizations like She Leads and Stree Shakti would give desired efforts in this regard. Women leadership through elected bodies would take country to new levels of progress and prosperity. “

Mind Management and artificial intelligence

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MIND MANAGEMENT AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
By
Vijay GarG
(Human mind is superior to any computer and artificial intelligence)
The human mind travels faster than any other object; the wise bard once proclaimed, “Mind is a part and parcel of human body, but while body resides here, where the mind resides, it is unknown”, it flees at a faster speed more than the thundering light, therefore controlling of human mind is most important exercise that the human being must adhere to manage it, who cherish success and happiest moment in their lives. To understand better the functions of various organs of the human body, human anatomy is there to be studied, but the practice of controlling the human mind is the most important lesson that every conscious and enlightened human must learn in time before it is too late. Mind controlling or management is a rigorous practice that can be achieved by various methods like spiritual healing process yoga practice, singing of glory of God, or various forms of physical exercises.
The entire creature and most importantly the human being when they are born are innocent, unenlightened, illiterate, or untrained, without an iota of knowledge of living. Gradually and slowly, they gain knowledge following their parents or society. They need, therefore, the training, and practice to learn the art of living and become good social beings in times. Domesticated animals are tamed and used for various purposes. Likewise, the human body, the various organs, and the mind must be dexterously trained and skillful to survive in life.
     The human mind is very sensitive and is attracted by the multifarious activities around the environment they live. Numerous pleasant and unpleasant, negative and positive incidents take place in day-to-day life. The human mind is moreover, attracted by negativism easily because it is easy to follow, but learning the traits of living needs hard endeavor, dedication, perseverance, and positive action. The human mind gathers information from the physical world and stores it just like the data memory in computers. As the programming and application data of the computers run, so the human mind functions, but the human mind is superior to any computer and artificial intelligence (AI), rather they are made by the human mind and out of discovery.
     There are three levels of the human mind which are categorized as sub-conscious, conscious, and super-conscious mind. The various data, statistics, and information are stored in the subconscious mind. All kinds of prejudice, physical information, etc. are directly related to the subconscious mind. The collected data and information received by the sub-conscious mind need to be filtered, modified, and edited before they are taken or used, so there is a need of conscious mind that must be enlightened enough to distinguish rights and wrongs, therefore; the conscious mind has the quality of storing and developing the useful, positive and motivating ideas and energy, the habit, behavior, etiquette, discipline and initiative are made and motivated by conscious mind in right direction, while the action taken out of subconscious mind in ignorance that leads the human often towards dark side of life.
     The developed and enlightened mind is conscious enough which is capable to accept the proactive, energizing, inspirational, and optimistic elements of the collected data and ignore or dump the negative objects like disposing of garbage.The human mind and intellectual self are, therefore, superior to any supercomputers or IA, because a developed human mind can think, edit, review, exam, monitor, make programming, etc. and AI and computers are also made out of the human brain and mind. Artificial Intelligence is therefore not an alien object, but the outcome of an enlightened human mind and intellect; it is for the use of assistance and facilities for human development.
    The conscious and enlightened mind therefore needs the proper use of physical materials like AI, computers, mobile phones, drones, or various scientific innovations and discoveries. A conscious human being is therefore conscious enough to strike the balance and utilities of various scientific tools, gadgets or AI. Human beings must not be slaves of such tools and machines, but they must be controlled by a conscious mind.
The entire world is full of miseries, suffering, agonies, natural calamities, sadness, and various odds in life. There are pains, deceits, misunderstandings, misconceptions, strides, tug of war, and wrestling in life, therefore, it is said that the physical world is an ocean of tragedy and misery; one must leave one day from this physical world. To undergo utter desperation, acute depression after loss, or over-optimism or pessimism is not the proper way of living. Weeping long for the loss or any kind of suffering till the last drop of tears is also not the solution to being safe from misery, it needs courage, the vibration of a positive mind, activities of positive thoughts, and positive action.
     Understanding the truth that life is full of sufferings and struggles, a conscious and enlightened mind is fully committed to be happy and act positively directed and inspired by wisdom and bliss. Napoleon Hill of the world best seller book, Growing Rich rightly depicted that a human being is a master and captain of his soul. The human mind is activated, vibrates, and includes fast due to various factors in which well-balanced physical marital relationships, music, singing and dancing, and various practices or poses of physical exercises are important in human life. Further, the auto-suggestion of positive thought processes as a daily practice in the morning and evening prayers are important spiritual practice as the author Norman Vincent Peale suggests. It is just like cleansing dirty particles from the cloth by watering and washing rigorously, As much as the dirty and worse behavior in the subconscious mind so the much the practice of healing by autosuggestion is needed. Auto-suggestion is taking out the garbage, the bad behavior, practice stored in their mind and replacing them with positive thoughts and inspirational events, and words so that people can change their unwanted behavior with positive thoughts, belief system, outlooks in life.
Shrimat Bhagawat Geeta, one of the best-sacred book of the world suggest;“safeguard one’s mind and soul from evil and never underestimate self or surrender before the evil, the mind, soul, and thought process itself is the friend or enemy of a human being. . Mind management therefore requires a lot of spiritual practices, devotions, and yoga practices followed by a lot of positive thoughts to combat the increasing number of vices and evils of this physical world. Only then, the world becomes paradise on earth. Every individual prospers and move forward if first and foremost they go through the well-defined and broad-based practice of mind management abstaining from the slavery of modern technology like mobile phone, AI, etc., and practice the art of living by genuine teachers The world is full of happiness and paradise to those who know the truth of natural process like birth and death, youthfulness and old age and control the mind safeguarding the evil aggression like jealousy, blasphemy, discrimination, bias consideration, prejudice, and unhealthy competition and race for earning money, glory and accumulating wealth and power
Vijay GarG is Retired Principal Educational columnist Malout Punjab

My Paintings focus on love and peace: Saiqa Rashid Prominent Painteri

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My Paintings Focus on Love and Peace: Saiqa Rashid, Prominent painter

Saiqa Rashid is a human bestowed with multiple talents,  Assistant Engineer at Power Development Department (PDD) whose passion for art and calligraphy has blossomed into a remarkable journey of self-expression. She is well known artist from Kashmir known for her paintings of diverse nature and calligraphy art.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir, She talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
Tell us bit about your academic journey ?
Academic journey was excellent as I was bright student and parents were also always stressing to focus on education.  But due to pressure of studies,  I could not give art much time. After marriage when my kids grew, I started to find touch with my skills of art. My near and dear including parents and husband after seeing my paintings and calligraphy work encouraged me to be more serious about art.
What is the focus of your paintings ?
My paintings are sufism based. I also focus on calligraphy. I have started painting world famous mosques and I am focusing also on more global landscapes to broaden my area of work .
The message of Sufism is universal love ,do you reflect same through your paintings?
Definitely when you follow the Sufi ideology the universal harmonious concepts like love and kindness flow from you within as human.
How many exhibitions you have displayed your art ?
I have here in Kashmir displayed my art in about 4 exhibitions and also at international level exhibitions at Ajmer, Rajasthan and Mumbai, Maharashtra.  My calligraphy and paintings were highly appreciated by national and international viewers. I was told that my paintings have touch of middle eastern art.
Do you paint about women sufferings?
No I don’t put women sufferings in my art. I focus on love and peace through my Sufi art. But, yes I have started to paint on the sufferings of children due to global conflicts and war , how it harms and hurts their childhood.
How is family support to your life in creativity and art ?
My family support is great especially my husband. He recently accompanied me to exhibition in Mumbai. He gives me great support to carry my painting journey.
What is the scope of paintings and calligraphy for youngsters?
What i have found from my own experience is that you can showcase your art in many exhibitions, but as far as monetary aspect is considered it is very weak and won’t fetch you much as career.
What are your future goals?
My future goals are to shine through my paintings and calligraphy.  I want to be remembered as remarkable artist. I am always in learning process and there is no end to learning till death.
Do you find there is dearth of Art Gallaries in Kashmir?
There is not just dearth but also absence of mega art galleries in Kashmir.  This is causing much handicap to the artists as far as showcasing their art is considered.
Your message to youngsters?
My message to youngsters take paintings,  calligraphy or any other art form as hobby but also be serious about studies to make good career.

India a responsible environmental friendly country

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India a responsible environmental friendly country
India as a country is doing everything possible to be a very exemplary country when it comes to be environmental friendly country.
comparison to the average pollution created globally, which is often criticised for causing climate change, India stands as a good example. The report tells us that the pollution produced by each person in India is less than half of what is usual worldwide. This shows that India could be a guide for other countries trying to reduce the impact of their activities on the environment.
The expert pulse is that India has lower pollution per person, we find that the country’s rules about taking care of nature play a big role. India has smart plans for using clean energy, planting more trees, and being mindful of how people live. The report suggests that these rules are not only helping India grow in a good way but also encouraging people to live in a more eco-friendly manner.
As a matter of fact, recent report brings good news about India’s efforts to protect the environment. It says that each person in India produces much less pollution than the global average. This is a big deal and shows that India is doing well in being eco-friendly.
On the other hand, recent report brings good news about India’s efforts to protect the environment. It says that each person in India produces much less pollution than the global average. This is a big deal and shows that India is doing well in being eco-friendly.
Over the past few years India has taken series of steps to be a country of global responsibility that aids in the improvement of not just national climate but global climate.

Emphatic BJP Win , Cover story 11 December 2023

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  • Emphatic BJP Win
    News Kashmir Analysis

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has once again been triumphant in the elections .It swept the Hindi Heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and Rajasthan while as main opposition Party Congress could just win the Southern State of Telangana.
As a matter of fact , ruling
BJP swept the elections in Madhya Pradesh despite being in power since 2003, except for a 15-month period after 2018.
Pertinent to mention, BJP retained power in Madhya Pradesh by winning 166 seats in the 230-member Assembly, relegating the Congress to a distant second with just 66 seats, down from the 114 the grand old party had got in the 2018 edition.
In yet another stunning and surprising victory, The BJP won the Chhattisgarh Election 2023 as the party crossed the half-way mark on Sunday. The BJP won 54 seats , while the Congress won 35 seats. Many had predicted Congress win as opposed to BJP in Chattisgarh but BJP ousted Congress in emphatic manner.
BJP swept the polls, with 46.27 vote share, to regain power in Chhattisgarh on Sunday. The Congress’s vote share was around 42 per cent.
The BJP secured an impressive victory in Rajasthan, winning 115 seats, as the ‘revolving door trend’ continued in the state where an incumbent party has not been voted back to power in the last 30 years. The Congress finished second with 69 seats. Eight independents won, while the Bharat Adivasi Party emerged victorious in three seats, two for the Bahujan Samaj Party, and one each for the Rashtriya Lok Dal and the Rashtriya Loktantrik Party.
On the otherhand, Congress won 64 assembly seats in Telangana and ended the nearly 10-year-old rule of the K Chandrasekhar Rao-led Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) government.
Congress state unit chief Revanth Reddy and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar met the governor in the evening to stake claim to form the government in the state.

The BRS, which has 101 members in the outgoing Assembly, got 39 seats, while the BJP secured eight seats. The AIMIM won seven seats and CPI one.
The pulse on ground zero is that BJP has secured emphatic win in most of the states and it’s road to power in 2024 elections has been made much easier.
These results are also the testimony of the great leadership qualities of Prime Minister Narendra Modi lead Government and its popularity in masses.

Poor Menstrual hygiene is matter of concern

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Poor Menstrual Hygiene is matter of serious concern

By Rameez Makhdoomi
Menstruation is part and parcel of every women’s life .
By definition, Menstruation is also known by the terms menses, menstrual period, menstrual cycle or period. Menstrual blood — which is partly blood and partly tissue from the inside of your uterus — flows from your uterus through your cervix and out of your body through your vagina. Menstruation is driven by hormones.
Good menstrual health and hygiene practices can prevent infections, reduce odors, and help you stay comfortable during your period. Wash your hands before and after using the restroom and before using a menstrual product.
On the other hand, Poor menstrual hygiene, however, can pose serious health risks, like reproductive and urinary tract infections which can result in future infertility and birth complications. Neglecting to wash hands after changing menstrual products can spread infections, such as hepatitis B and thrush.
Unfortunately,  Jammu and Kashmir is among the regions with poor menstrual hygiene.
As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), nearly 60 per cent of women in Jammu and Kashmir still use cloth for menstrual protection during periods. The survery (2019-2021) also reveals that merely 50.5 per cent of women aged between 15-24 use  sanitary napkins. The per centage has swelled from 48.8 per cent in NFHS-4 (2015-2016).
According to official data, the lowest percentage of women using sanitary napkins apart from Jammu and Kashmir are from Uttar Pradesh with 69.4 per cent, Assam with 69.1 per cent, Meghalaya with 65 per cent, and Madhya Pradesh with 61 per cent. Andaman and Nicobar Islands has the lowest rate of women preferring cloth, with 8.2 per cent, while Tamil Nadu with 12.7 per cent is at the second place.
Good menstrual health and hygiene practices can prevent infections, reduce odors, and help you stay comfortable during your period. Wash your hands before and after using the restroom and before using a menstrual product.
While talking to this Journalist,  Dr Priyanka Sharma, Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fortis Mohali, observed that menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) is not well acknowledged in our country. Still many women and girls are unaware of the basic hygiene practices to be followed during their menstruation like adequate washing of the genitals, use of good absorbent sanitary pads , appropriate clothes and toilet facilities and adequate measures of disposable.
She further adds;
“
Poor menstrual hygiene may lead to problems such as itching or rashes in the perineal region, bad odour, and also major complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease and toxic shock syndrome. These problems can also further lead to reproductive issues like infertility and pregnancy related complications.
 Knowledge regarding the physiological processes associated with menstruation has a pivotal role in determining sexual and reproductive health outcomes. Most girls don’t know their bodies are changing when they start menstruating, that menstruation is a biological process, or what they can do to regulate it.
 A 2014 report by an NGO, Dasra, said over 23 million girls drop out of school every year due to a lack of adequate MHM facilities, including sanitary napkins and proper knowledge of menstruation.
Menstrual health is not a ‘women’s subject’but it involves the complete society. Comprehensive and meaningful education on menstrual processes, supportive environments, encouraging participation, and honest conversations can help adolescent boys and men, better understand MHH.
Women should be empowered by providing essential services for menstrual management and disposal which is scientifically sound, accessible, and at cost that the community and country can afford. “
Undoubtedly, menstrual hygiene should be taken seriously.

Honoring Dr APJ Abdul Kalam: DIPR hosts inspiring Memorial Lecture Series in Jammu

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Honoring Dr APJ Abdul Kalam: DIPR hosts inspiring Memorial Lecture Series in Jammu
JAMMU, DECEMBER 06: The Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) today organized a distinguished memorial lecture series on former President of India and veteran aerospace and defence scientist, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.
The event, held at the Convention Center in Jammu, featured eminent speakers from the domains of space and defence technologies.
Former scientists from the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) took the stage, offering valuable insights into India’s advancements in these critical sectors.
In the afternoon session, Dr. Suresh Naik, a senior space scientist and ex-Group Director of ISRO, captivated the audience with a detailed presentation on ISRO’s remarkable journey.
Dr Naik, who was chief guest on the lecture series, highlighted the success of recent space missions including the Chandrayaan series and the soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the moon in August this year.
Dr. Naik elaborated on the upcoming Aditya-L1 mission to explore the sun and outlined future endeavors such as Mangalyaan, Gaganyaan, Shukrayaan, Indian Space Station by 2035, and the vision of placing the first Indian on the Moon by 2040.
In the inaugural session, Kashinath Deodhar, a former scientist of DRDO, provided a comprehensive overview of defense technology advancements over the past four decades, shedding light on key milestones and developments in India’s defense capabilities.
Each lecture session was followed by a dynamic question and answer session, allowing participants from various colleges to engage with the visiting scientists, gaining deeper insights into space exploration and technology.
Adding a unique perspective to the event, Rakesh Kumar, a Paralympian from Katra, shared his inspirational journey of representing India at international events and achieving gold medals in various competitions.
The event garnered enthusiastic participation from students, including those from prestigious institutions such as IIM, IIT, and several management colleges. This reflects a growing interest among young minds in the intersection of science, technology, and national development.
Joint Director Information (Hqs), Joint Director Information Jammu, Deputy Director (Central), Deputy Director (AV), Deputy Director Information (PR) Jammu, and other senior officers and officials from DIPR were present on the occasion.
The Department of Information and Public Relations extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants and attendees for contributing towards success of the memorial lecture series.

Deepfakes challenge, Cover story 27 November 2023

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Deepfakes challenge
News Kashmir Analysis
Artificial intelligence is now widely recognized as the future of world, but there are some serious challenges like Deepfakes.
Deepfakes (portmanteau of “deep learning” and “fake” are synthetic media that have been digitally manipulated to replace one person’s likeness convincingly with that of another. Deepfakes are the manipulation of facial appearance through deep generative methods.While the act of creating fake content is not new, deepfakes leverage powerful techniques from machine learning and artificial intelligence to manipulate or generate visual and audio content that can more easily deceive.The main machine learning methods used to create deepfakes are based on deep learning and involve training generative neural network architectures, such as autoencoders, or generative adversarial networks (GANs). In turn the field of image forensics develops techniques to detect manipulated images.
India is mulling regulation to tame the spread of deepfakes and other user harm that Artificial Intelligence (AI) can bring along, Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said here few days back.After meeting representatives from large social media platforms and other stakeholders, the Minister said India will draft new rules to spot and limit the spread of deepfakes.
On the otherhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently  reiterated his concern about deepfakes, which create ultra-realistic visuals, and echoed the call for global regulations on artificial intelligence.
Speaking at the opening of a virtual summit of G20 nations, of which India holds the presidency, PM Modi said, “The world is worried about the negative effects of AI. India thinks that we have to work together on the global regulations for AI. Understanding how dangerous deepfake is for society and individuals, we need to work forward. We want AI should reach the people, it must be safe for society.”
We must understand dangers posed by deepfakes to society and individuals,” PM Modi said.
“India’s thinking is clear, we have to work together on global regulation of AI,” PM Modi told G20 leaders.
Expert pulse is worried the hands of cybercriminals, deepfakes become dangerous weapons that can disrupt and destroy businesses and governments. A fabricated video of a company’s top executive or a top politician can have serious repercussions on a company or a country’s reputation.
We as a nation need to take challenges of Deepfakes very seriously.
Over the years, we have witnessed many such instances of deepfake videos that went viral on social media. Most recently, actor Rashmika Mananna was a victim of a viral deepfake video, sparking serious concerns over the misuse of the technology which resulted in the Indian government drawing plans to tackle the menace.