Buried Beneath the Garbage: Jammu & Kashmir’s Silent Waste Crisis. Opinion 4 August,2025

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Buried Beneath the Garbage: Jammu & Kashmir’s Silent Waste Crisis.

By Dr Noour Ali Zehgeer

First Prime Minister of India used to love water from cheshmashahi, we were the state where hydel power generation was expected to cater the nation and yet we can foresee the water crisis in coming years, just because we abused water bodies of our state. Jammu and Kashmir takes strides toward development and modernization, an ugly and largely ignored issue continues to fester beneath the surface—solid waste. Despite several pilot projects and government promises, the garbage heaps lining roads, clogging water channels, and poisoning the very soil of the region tell a starkly different story.

Pilot Projects or Policy Placebos?

Over the past few years, the administration, often in collaboration with private companies, has launched various pilot projects aimed at improving waste management in both urban and rural areas. These initiatives, on paper, appear promising—offering structured collection systems, waste segregation at source, and improved processing techniques. However, in practice, they have yielded limited results.

One of the glaring issues is the symbolic nature of these efforts. Projects are often launched with pomp and media coverage but fizzle out due to lack of follow-through, mismanagement, or insufficient scale. The question then arises: Are these projects sincere efforts to address the waste problem, or merely exercises in public relations and fund utilization?

A Disjointed Strategy in a Fragile Ecosystem

J&K’s topography, climate, and socio-political fabric present unique challenges. From the snowbound mountains of Kupwara to the plains of Jammu, waste disposal needs context-specific strategies. Yet, the government seems to be relying on one-size-fits-all policies that fail to consider regional diversity.

Rural areas suffer the worst. Villages lack basic waste collection systems, leaving residents to resort to open dumping and burning. These practices not only degrade the environment but also pose serious health risks due to the release of toxins into the air and groundwater.

Lack of Community Involvement: The Missing Link

Perhaps the most fundamental failure lies in the near-absence of community participation. Waste management isn’t just about trucks and bins—it’s about behaviour change. And that change can only come through consistent public engagement, education, and accountability.

In many areas, residents are either unaware of or indifferent to the concept of waste segregation. Plastic, kitchen waste, medical waste—all go into the same bag. The absence of awareness campaigns, school programs, or grassroots mobilization means that people continue with old habits, unaware of the environmental cost.

 

Other Indian cities like Indore and Ambikapur have demonstrated that successful waste management begins at the community level. In those cities, citizens segregate waste, local women’s groups manage composting, and the government provides incentives for compliance. The results have been astonishing—cleaner streets, better public health, and even revenue generation.

Local Governance Left Powerless

While the success of any such initiative depends heavily on local governing bodies like Municipal Committees and Panchayats, in J&K, these institutions are either sidelined or under-resourced. Officials often lack the training, funds, and equipment necessary to implement waste management plans effectively.

Empowering these grassroots bodies with decentralised systems—like community compost pits, local recycling units, and door-to-door collection—can prove far more effective than large, centralised systems that are costly and difficult to maintain in J&K’s terrain.

Policy Paralysis and Poor Enforcement

In 2016, the Government of India laid down clear Solid Waste Management Rules that mandate segregation at source, door-to-door collection, and scientific disposal. But like many laws in the country, their implementation in J&K remains half-hearted at best.

There is little to no monitoring of whether these rules are being followed. Penalties for non-compliance exist only on paper. The absence of digital tracking systems, field audits, or citizen feedback loops means that violators go unpunished and responsible citizens remain unrecognized.

Time to Look Beyond Borders

If J&K’s policymakers are serious about addressing the waste crisis, they must look at success stories from across India and the world. Cities like Panaji, Pune, and Mysuru have achieved significant improvements by introducing user charges, integrating informal waste pickers, and incentivizing bulk waste generators like hotels and institutions to manage their waste responsibly.

Globally, countries like Sweden and South Korea have nearly eliminated landfill use through aggressive recycling and waste-to-energy initiatives. While such models can’t be transplanted wholesale, their principles—community involvement, strict regulation, and technological innovation—can certainly inspire localized adaptations in J&K.

A Crisis That Demands Urgent Action

At a time when the region is trying to attract tourism, boost its economy, and offer better quality of life to its residents, the mismanagement of solid waste threatens to undo all progress. Mountains of garbage not only mar the natural beauty of Kashmir but also pollute its lakes, rivers, and forests—assets that are integral to its identity and survival.

 

The current approach—sporadic projects, passive citizens, and invisible enforcement—simply won’t work. What is needed is a comprehensive, multi-pronged policy that addresses the issue at all levels: policymaking, implementation, community participation, and technological innovation. If the government continues to ignore the problem, it won’t just be squandering taxpayer money—it will be burying the future of Jammu & Kashmir under layers of plastic, toxins, and decay.

Conclusion

Solid waste isn’t just an environmental problem; it’s a social and economic one too. The need for urgent, coordinated, and community-driven action is non-negotiable. It’s time to stop dumping the responsibility from one agency to another and take collective ownership. The future of J&K quite literally depends on it.

Financial literacy for women in Kashmir: The Power to Rise, opinion 18 August 2025.

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 Financial Literacy for Women in Kashmir: The Power to Rise

By Tyima Bilal
When the first light of dawn touches the snow-capped peaks of Kashmir, women are already awake. They are already in motion.They carry baskets into saffron fields, their breaths visible in the crisp morning air. They weave Pashmina under the soft glow of a kangri. They tend to orchards, bake bread, sew garments, and run classrooms.They create beauty, value, and tradition, but too often, they do not control the money their work brings. Financial decisions, in many homes, are still left to men. And this silent exclusion holds back not just the women, but the entire community. They are the heartbeat of the valley, quiet, tireless, and strong. Yet too many times, their work ends with little more than the satisfaction of labour. The money they earn often slips from their hands before it can change their lives.
This is why financial literacy, the ability to understand, manage, and grow money,is not just helpful. In Kashmir, it is urgent. It is a tool of survival, a shield against uncertainty, and a ladder toward independence.
Breaking the Cycle of Dependency
Imagine a woman who spends months embroidering a shawl that will sell for thousands. When the payment comes, it is taken from her hands,sometimes with love, sometimes with authority, and she is left with little more than the pride of her craft. She is the maker of value, yet not the owner of it.A woman without financial knowledge may be left without savings, without a safety net, and without the ability to navigate the banking system. But when she knows how to manage money, she gains the courage to make choices for herself and her family.A financially literate woman in Kashmir is not just someone who can calculate profits from selling her handicrafts, she is someone who can plan for her children’s education, invest in her own business, and face life’s uncertainties with confidence.
 When Knowledge Becomes Freedom
Financial literacy is not simply about counting money,it is about claiming the right to decide. It is the power to say, “This is my earning, and I will use it to secure my child’s education, to invest in my dream, or to save for a day of uncertainty.” For a woman in Kashmir, understanding how to open a bank account, apply for a loan, or invest in a small business can mean the difference between dependence and dignity. It can mean the ability to leave an unsafe marriage. It can mean feeding her family when the orchards fail. It can mean standing tall when the world expects her to bow.Empowering a woman financially does not end with her. A financially literate mother teaches her children to be responsible with money. A financially independent sister inspires her siblings to dream bigger. A woman entrepreneur creates jobs, supports local economies, and breaks stereotypes.It’s not an exaggeration to say: when you educate a woman about finance, you uplift an entire community.
The barriers faced
When a woman is not financially stable, her life becomes a constant struggle between dignity and survival. Through her husband, she may face control, dependency, and sometimes even neglect, with no say in how money is spent. Through society, she bears judgment for her helplessness, as if poverty is her fault. And when a crisis strikes, when her child needs urgent medical care or her family needs shelter, the lack of even a small sum feels like a mountain she cannot climb. In those moments, financial independence is not a luxury, it is her lifeline.A woman without financial stability walks through life with invisible chains. Her dreams are paused by dependence on her husband’s will, her choices silenced by the weight of tradition. Society questions her worth, yet offers no hand when she stumbles. The simplest needs,a child’s hospital bill, repairs for her home, even a warm meal, become battles she cannot fight alone. These barriers are not just about money; they are about dignity, voice, and the power to stand without fear.
Government’s Role: Turning Promises into Pathways:
For Kashmiri women to break free from the cycle of financial dependency, government action must go beyond words on paper. It must be felt in their villages, in their markets, and in their bank accounts.
1. Financial Literacy Programs in Every District The government can set up women-focused financial literacy centers in rural and urban areas, where women learn about budgeting, savings, investments, and government schemes in simple, local languages.
2. Access to Credit & Microfinance: Many women with skills and dreams lack the capital to start. Low-interest loans, microfinance opportunities, and easy access to bank accounts can transform those dreams into businesses.
3. Skill Development & Employment Opportunities :Linking skill training programs directly with job placements or small-business grants ensures that learning translates into earning.
4. Health & Emergency Funds :Government-led women’s emergency funds can provide immediate financial aid for hospital bills, childbirth, or other urgent needs, a safety net that saves lives.
5. Digital Access & Banking Infrastructure:Expanding internet connectivity and digital banking services into remote villages ensures that women can manage finances without depending on others for travel or information.
The Call to Every Woman in Kashmir
Dear sisters, your dreams deserve more than waiting for someone else’s permission to come true. Financial independence is not just about money, it is about your voice, your choices, and your dignity. The moment you earn and manage your own income, you unlock the power to decide for yourself, to stand tall even when life shakes you, and to protect those you love without fear. No matter how small you start , a skill, a savings jar, a home-based venture, it is the first step towards a life where you are the author of your story. The world respects a woman who can stand on her own feet , be that woman.
To the women who rise before sunrise,
To the mothers who give without keeping,
To the dreamers waiting for the right time, The right time is now.
Financial literacy is not just about money,it is about dignity, safety, and power. It is the difference between hoping for security and building it yourself.
The valley has always been full of women who endure. Now, it must be full of women who decide. Because when a Kashmiri woman learns to manage her money, she does not just transform her life,she transforms the future of her family, her community, and her land.And in a place as breathtaking as Kashmir, women deserve to rise as high as its mountains and shine as brightly as its morning sun.
“When women earn, they don’t just make a living, they make a difference.”
 Penned by Tyima Bilal, for every woman who dreams of walking her own path.

Kishtwar Cloudburst Tragedy, Cover story 18 August 2025

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Kishtwar Cloudburst Tragedy
News Kashmir Analysis
Kishtwar Cloudburst has shaken entire India. The large number of deaths just before we celebrated our 79th Independence day made entire country sad. The regular occurrence of cloudbursts in Himalayan states of the Country is becoming cause of concern as they are causing large scale havoc.
Cloufburst struck Chashoti village of Kishtwar and it is the last motorable village en route to the Machail Mata pilgrimage, considered holy by the Hindu community. According to eyewitnesses, a large number of pilgrims had congregated there for the annual yatra. The pilgrimage, which had commenced on July 25, was scheduled to conclude by September 5. Reaching the 9,500-feet-high pilgrimage site from Chashoti village involves a nearly 9-km trek.
Pain and grief engulfed all.
 Chief Minister Omar Abdullah cancelled the ‘At Home’ tea party scheduled for August 15 evening. “In light of the tragedy caused by the cloudburst in Kishtwar I have taken the decision to cancel the ‘At Home’ tea party tomorrow evening. We have also decided not to go ahead with the cultural events during the morning Independence Day celebrations. The formal events—speech, march past, etc.—will go ahead as planned,” the Chief Minister tweeted.
On the other hand,  Union Minister Jitendra Singh visited the affected region in Kishtwar late on Friday evening and shared details of the government’s swift response.
Speaking to ANI, Singh said, “The government immediately took cognisance of it…PM Modi personally took cognisance of it and monitored it. After that, the equipment was brought here overnight by vehicles. CRPF came here overnight with equipment. Air Force, Indian Army, DG Police, Jammu-Kashmir Police, and today BRO’s services have been utilised because they have machines to clear debris from the roads…”
He added, “52 bodies have been recovered, of which four bodies have not been identified, while the rest have been identified. Seriously injured patients have been referred outside, with about 52 patients admitted to Jammu Medical College, and those who are more critical will be referred outside…Efforts are ongoing. There is no shortage from the government’s side. Work is in progress.”
The expert pulse is worried about frequent cloudbursts in Jammu and Kashmir,  and other Himalayan states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttrakhand.  The need of the hour is experts especially environmentalists start educating masses about the fallout of these cloudbursts and explain holistic contours.
Undoubtedly, Kishtwar Cloudburst has pained entire country.

Food adulteration concern, 11 August 2025 cover story

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Food Adulteration Concerns
News Kashmir Analysis

Food adulteration is a matter of serious concern. It is poisoning us slowly. It is also a matter of grave public health concern. The entire Kashmir valley is rattled after the seizure of over 3000 kilograms of rotten meat unfit for human consumption from various parts of the Valley in the last week; pain and worry have gripped Kashmir. As a matter of fact, the discovery of rotten meat in large quantities has raised serious concerns about food safety, public health, and the effectiveness of regulatory mechanisms in the region. It is worth mentioning here that on July 31, the Food Safety Department Srinagar, in coordination with the Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO), seized 1,200 kilograms of rotten meat from an industrial estate in the Zakura area on the outskirts of Srinagar. There are many concerns now, and people are worried about the negative impacts of rotten meat on health, especially that which we consume in restaurants and hotels. It is a matter of misfortune that the use of rotten meat in restaurants poses significant health risks to consumers.

When meat spoils, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter, which can cause food poisoning. Symptoms range from mild stomach cramps and diarrhea to life-threatening conditions like kidney failure and reactive arthritis. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and young children, are particularly susceptible to these health issues. It should also be noted that, beyond health concerns, the practice of serving spoiled meat undermines trust in the food industry. Consumers expect safe, high-quality food, and establishments that compromise on this standard risk their reputation.

The use of rotten meat also raises ethical questions. It is the need of the hour that we get meat only through a clean chain, and restaurants have a responsibility to prioritize customer well-being; serving spoiled food is a clear breach of this duty. It reflects a lack of regard for consumer health and safety, which is fundamental to the hospitality industry. To mitigate these risks, one must implement strict food safety protocols, including regular inspections, proper storage, and thorough cooking procedures.
 By prioritizing food safety, establishments can protect their customers and maintain the trust that is essential to their customer business. It is heartening to note that a case has been registered against Sunshine Foods under Sections 271, 275, and 61(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Further legal actions are planned as the investigation progresses. Dieticians and health experts have advised consumers to avoid eating meat at eateries until the supply chain is verified as safe. But food safety concerns are now very high in Kashmir.

AlphaEarth Foundation, cover story 4 August ,2025

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AlphaEarth Foundation- A Great AI invention for humanity
News Kashmir Analysis
Artificial intelligence is making world a revolutionary place to live. It is making great inventions that will define future of humanity towards better .
We are now witness to multiple better things coming out of AI fields-  Pertinent to mention  here that the Google DeepMind’s AlphaEarth Foundations is a revolutionary AI model is designed to transform global mapping and monitoring.
 This world defining  technology integrates large amounts of Earth observation data from diverse sources, including optical satellite images, radar, 3D laser mapping, and climate simulations.
What is important is that this technology combines these data sources, AlphaEarth creates a unified digital representation of the planet, enabling scientists to track changes over time with remarkable precision.
What is more optimistic to note is that expert pulse is clear  AlphaEarth model analyzes the world’s land and coastal waters in sharp 10×10 meter squares, allowing for detailed monitoring of environmental changes.
In this regard, the expert pulse is that It functions as a “virtual satellite,” providing near-real-time insights into the planet’s evolution. This unified digital model makes it easier for computer systems to process and analyze disparate datasets.
The experts have stated that-
AlphaEarth Foundations has far-reaching implications for various fields, including environmental monitoring, conservation efforts, and agricultural monitoring. It can track deforestation, urban expansion, and climate changes with unprecedented accuracy and speed. The model can also identify vulnerable areas and direct conservation efforts with precision. Additionally, it can inform decisions on resource allocation and crop health.
Reports have stated that Google DeepMind is releasing a collection of AlphaEarth Foundations’ annual embeddings as the Satellite Embedding dataset in Google Earth Engine, allowing researchers to access and build upon the model. This initiative has already shown significant benefits, with over 50 organizations testing the dataset on real-world applications.
It is great for planet earth  that  As Google DeepMind continues to explore the best ways to apply this model’s time-based capabilities, we can expect even more innovative uses in the future.
The heartning development to note is that potential applications of AlphaEarth Foundations extend to sectors like agriculture, urban planning, and disaster risk assessment. By providing a detailed and dynamic understanding of the planet, AlphaEarth can help us better prepare for and respond to environmental challenges. With its cutting-edge technology and vast potential.
Be it Kashmir or any other part of world Artificial intelligence is future  and it is  really great to note that  AlphaEarth Foundations is poised to make a significant impact on our understanding of the planet and its changes.

Sudarshan Chakra, 18 August ,2025 Editorial

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Sudarshan Chakra
Defense is very much needed by a country. How a country is able to defend itself during enemy strikes is pivotal to it becoming a global power. The defense of India as nation is well known fact.
In a big leap towards strengthening the defense of country,  India will build a ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, a ‘multi-layered framework’ to integrate advanced surveillance, cyber protection, and physical safeguards to protect its citizens and infrastructure from enemy strikes, terrorist or otherwise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on the eve of independence day.
As a matter of fact ,
This new defensive blanket will be similar to Israel’s much-vaunted Iron Dome and the United States’ proposed Golden Dome – in that it will act as a missile defence shield.
By 2035, I want to expand, strengthen, and modernise this shield. Drawing inspiration from Lord Krishna, we have chosen the path of the Sudarshan Chakra… the entire system should be researched, developed, and manufactured in India, PM Modi said in his independence day speech.
Expert pulse is delighted with overall contours of Sudarshan Chakra.
The Sudarshan Chakra Mission aims to create a robust defense system, integrating advanced surveillance, cyber protection, and physical safeguards to protect India’s citizens and critical infrastructure. With a focus on indigenous development and manufacturing, this initiative will boost India’s self-reliance in defense and enhance national security capabilities significantly by 2035.
We are proud that India is now having such robust and effective defense system.

The 79th Independence of glory

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The 79th Independence Day of glory

India is a great country and civilization.
 Freeedom from British colonial rule, is the top achievement of our country’s leadership. We have come a long way since independence, and our country has developed and progressed in many fields. There are challenges, but the fruits of independence have been unprecedented. We now breathe in free air as proud Indians. India won its freedom from British rule on August 15, 1947. That year counts as the first Independence Day. Thus, the country will mark its 79th anniversary of independence, which spans 78 full years from 1947 to 2025. Furthermore, official channels have confirmed that India will observe its 79th Independence Day. According to a letter from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) distributed by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the nation will mark its 79th Independence Day. “As India prepares to celebrate its 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has extended an invitation to all citizens to contribute their thoughts and ideas for his address from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15,” the letter added.
We salute the leadership of our country, armed forces, and all sectors that have contributed to making India a global power. On the 79th Independence Day, we should make a pledge to make India a world superpower and further achieve strength.
 On the eve of our Independence Day, we should also make a firm pledge to eradicate poverty and corruption. We should always be loyal to our country. We are proud that we are the largest democracy in the world. Let us make India rule the global economy through its economic power.

New Petrol Pumps in Jammu and Kashmir, editorial 4 august 2025

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New Petrol Pumps in Jammu and Kashmir
Petrol Pumps are important components of development in present era.
Petrol pumps, or fuel stations, play a crucial role in modern transportation. Petrol pumps are globally  convenient and accessible way for vehicles to refuel, ensuring the smooth operation of logistics, transportation, and daily commutes. Petrol pumps also contribute to the economy by generating revenue through fuel sales and creating employment opportunities. Additionally, many petrol pumps offer additional services like vehicle maintenance, lubricants, and convenience stores, making them a one-stop solution for drivers. With the growing demand for alternative fuels, some petrol pumps are also adapting to offer eco-friendly options like CNG and electric charging stations, supporting a more sustainable transportation future. Overall, petrol pumps are a vital part of the transportation infrastructure.
In a significant development for Jammu and Kashmir,
Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi said the selection and setup of new retail outlets are being carried out based on field feasibility, demand potential, and transparent dealer selection processes.
As per the government data, 643 new petrol pump locations have been identified and advertised in Jammu and Kashmir, while 34 are planned for the Union Territory of Ladakh. These outlets are part of the 49,964 dealership slots advertised nationwide in June and July 2023. So far, Letters of Intent (LoIs) have been issued for over 23,000 of these locations, with more than 5,200 petrol pumps already operational as of July 1, 2025.
This is really great development and ushering a new era of progress in Jammu and Kashmir especially when it comes to sufficing fuel needs.

Srinagar needs strong drainage system, 30 June Cover Story 2025

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Srinagar needs strong drainage system
News Kashmir Analysis
Srinagar is the heart of Jammu and Kashmir.  It is highly important city of our great country India. Srinagar is known for many things – Great Gardens, lakes , religious places and vibrant markets.
Lacs of people visit Srinagar daily for diverse reasons. Srinagar also hosts large number of reputed Government and private hospitals.  Srinagar as a city is thus highly important area of the region.
It is matter of great misfortune that Drainage system of Srinagar city is lagging. With rainfall many areas of Srinagar city get choked  the roads and streets get flooded. This causes great distress to the masses.
With heavy rainfall becoming norm due to cloud bursts and climate change we need to be ready for challenges and have a world class drainage system in the Srinagar city.
Srinagar’s drainage woes are a harsh reality that residents face every monsoon. The city’s inefficient drainage system turns roads into rivers during heavy rainfall, causing frustration and disrupting daily life. Traffic jams and congestion are just the beginning – emergency services are often hindered, putting lives at risk.
The Smart City project promised a revamp, but the ground reality tells a different story. Citizens are still waiting for better roads and drainage. Experts stress that a well-planned drainage system is crucial to tackle climate change and urban expansion. It’s time to prioritize Srinagar’s infrastructure and give it the world-class drainage system it deserves.
The Srinagar city’s beauty and great heritage is undeniable, but its drainage system is a pressing concern that needs attention. With the right infrastructure in place, Srinagar can mitigate the risks of flooding and ensure a better quality of life for its residents. The clock is ticking – it’s time for action.
We can only claim to be a world class city when we have efficient drainage system.
The expert pulse is that in place quality drainage system is crucial for a city like Srinagar, preventing flooding, reducing traffic congestion, and protecting residents’ health.
It also  in a major way handles the risks of waterborne diseases, property damage, and economic losses. A well-designed drainage system ensures the city’s infrastructure can withstand heavy rainfall and snowmelt, supporting sustainable development and improving the overall quality of life for its residents. Efficient drainage is essential for a city’s resilience and prosperity.

Having a Mic in Hand Without a Degree: The Crisis of Ethical Journalism in Kashmir, opinion 30 June 2025

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Having a Mic in Hand Without a Degree: The Crisis of Ethical Journalism in Kashmir

By Rameez Bhat

In Kashmir, where words carry immense weight and a single sentence can change the course of public discourse, journalism has traditionally been more than just a career — it has been a vital instrument of truth, a reflection of society’s conscience, and sometimes, a battleground for narratives. But lately, an unsettling shift has taken hold. The microphone, once a symbol of trained responsibility, is now easily accessible to anyone with a smartphone and an internet connection. Formal education, ethical grounding, and professional training have taken a back seat. The region is witnessing a flood of self-proclaimed journalists who lack even the most basic qualifications but speak with authority and unearned conviction, often spreading misinformation and confusion.

The era of journalists being trained rigorously, learning under veteran editors, and gaining field experience is fading. In its place has emerged a generation of individuals who, with no grasp of journalistic principles or legal boundaries, consider themselves reporters by merely launching a social media page or a YouTube channel. They rush to every incident with their mics and cameras, making dramatic statements, interviewing victims, and speculating on crimes — all under the illusion of ‘citizen journalism.’ But being a concerned citizen is very different from being a journalist. The former is driven by emotion, while the latter demands education and responsibility.

While the Indian Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, it does not give anyone the right to spread falsehoods, create communal disharmony, or emotionally exploit a vulnerable society. Kashmir, already burdened by political turmoil and emotional volatility, needs responsible journalism now more than ever. But what we often witness instead is reckless reporting by those unfamiliar with fundamental practices like verifying facts, maintaining neutrality, protecting identities, or distinguishing between opinion and factual reporting.

Simply possessing a microphone doesn’t make one a journalist — just as holding a stethoscope doesn’t make one a doctor, or yelling in court doesn’t make one a lawyer. The danger of this false equivalence is real. Many of these unqualified individuals end up interfering in police investigations, misrepresenting events, or even provoking social unrest through misleading or exaggerated content. With no editors to guide them and no ethical frameworks to follow, they act as unchecked agents of chaos. Their content reaches thousands, but their accountability reaches no one.

This wave of amateur journalism has done serious damage to the credibility of professional media in Kashmir. Veteran journalists who have spent years building trust now find themselves grouped with self-styled influencers and vloggers. The public, overwhelmed with contradicting versions of the same story, grows skeptical. Truth is no longer sacred — it’s often bent to suit trends, gain followers, or push personal agendas. The chase for online popularity has replaced the pursuit of honest storytelling.

Even more troubling is the misuse of journalism as a tool for personal benefit. Some use the press label to gain access to powerful figures, enjoy privileges, or coerce others. There have been instances where these so-called journalists, without any formal education, have used their platforms to defame individuals, extort businesses, or settle old grudges. Without any professional accountability, they are driven only by views, likes, and ego. This kind of corruption not only undermines public trust but also endangers the safety and dignity of innocent people.

The solution is not to silence voices but to restore standards. Journalism needs to be a regulated field, where a basic qualification like a diploma or degree in mass communication is essential. Those already in the profession but lacking academic background should be encouraged to attend certification courses, workshops, or training sessions. Journalist associations and press bodies in Kashmir must enforce stricter entry rules, ensuring only qualified individuals are recognized. Government agencies, too, must tighten procedures for issuing press credentials. Tech platforms should work to identify and restrict misleading content dressed up as journalism.

Education institutions across Kashmir must also expand journalism programs that go beyond theory. Students should be equipped with real-world experience, ethical understanding, and media literacy. They must be taught that journalism is not just about breaking news — it’s about handling truth with care, respecting boundaries, and serving the public good. Without this foundation, the media risks becoming a source of confusion rather than clarity.

The microphone is a powerful symbol — it can amplify suppressed voices, challenge power structures, and narrate the stories that matter. But when misused, it distorts reality, deepens divisions, and misleads society. In Kashmir, where every word carries the potential to influence emotions and decisions, allowing untrained voices to dominate journalism is dangerous. True journalism isn’t something one claims by picking up a mic — it’s a responsibility earned through learning, ethics, and experience.

The freedom to speak is sacred, but it must be paired with the discipline to speak wisely. When journalism becomes a stage for untrained performers, it loses its credibility and moral compass. It turns into drama instead of duty, a show rather than a service. And in that transformation, it betrays the very public it was meant to inform and protect.

Kashmir deserves better — journalism that is honest, intelligent, and ethically grounded. Journalism that values truth over trends and substance over spectacle. A mic in the hand without a degree is more than a personal gap — it is a danger to collective trust and social harmony. In the world of journalism, especially in a place as sensitive as Kashmir, knowledge isn’t optional — it’s the very foundation. Because in the end, a loud voice without wisdom is just noise. And noise, no matter how viral, can never substitute for truth.