Seven painters energize Srinagar with their painting diversity 

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Seven painters energize Srinagar with their painting diversity
Deepa Soni organizes Reflections Art Exhibition
Rameez Makhdoomi & Farzana Mumtaz
Painting has always been important art form throughout the  world. The expert pulse is that Painting Fosters Emotional Awareness and Growth.
Not only has painting been proven to improve brain health, but it can also support your emotional intelligence and emotional growth. Images can communicate and express things that our words and thoughts don’t capture.
In a major painting development in our part of the world, Secretary of Tourism, Abid Rashid, officiated the opening of the two day Painting exhibition ‘Reflections’ art exhibition, curated by renowned artist Deepa Soni, at City Mall in Srinagar this Saturday.
Seven renowned painters including Deepa Soni Participated in the mega exhibition.
While talking to News Kashmir ace painter Deepa Soni stated : ” We all 7 painters whose paintings are exhibited in this exhibition at City mall are from diverse professions. Through this exhibition  we are giving  vent to our passion. The exhibition is mostly focusing on presenting the positive colors of Kashmir. To hold it at crowded place the motive is to attract more youth and connect them with their art and culture  .”
Deepa Soni affirmed that painting exhibitions are now a regularity in Kashmir and youngsters are now focused and have great interest in painting realms.
She stressed parents not to pressurize their wards and let the kids touch sky according to their talent.
Dr . Jahangir Aslam Makhdoomi, renowned Doctor and painter stated : ” The main  focus of my painting is nature. I Harmonise all seasons in my paintings. Such type of exhibitions encourage youth and we are  seeing  many young creative minds are coming up. In today’s world the youth have  towards  different art forms much passion. I have exhibted my paintings in different exhibitions. “
A young painter Samreen Nabi appreciated the people of Kashmir for attending the exhibition in large numbers and appreciating work of all, stressing that her focus is painting diverse landscape.
Eminent artist Iftikhar Wani stated :
” We from eminent backgrounds and professions  a total of 7 painters have collaborated to present this impressive exhibition. It is to keep people away from hustle of mobile world. The motive of this exhibition is to spread smile and  keep our passion alive .Different colours of Kashmir are showcased in it.”
Engineer Shazia Basharat, Eminent painter termed the exhibition  a grand success . She observed that youth of Kashmir are shinning in diverse arts. Her focus in painting is following her heart .
Rahila Yaseen,another young painter observed that her focus is to promote the heritage of Kashmir through her paintings and she depicts it by architectural paintings.
She called such exhibitions great experience for both the artists and masses to connect with art and culture.
Urfan Rafiqi , another eminent painter observed that the most happy moment for the artist is to showcase their work and talent to people.
He affirmed that Kashmir is in our soul and through paintings we pay tribute to great art and culture of Kashmir.
Undoubtedly, the valley of Kashmir is becoming a global hub of painting world .

A Humble Plea: Celebrating Kashmiri Marriages in Simplicity for the Betterment of Our Community

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  • A Humble Plea: Celebrating Kashmiri Marriages in Simplicity for the Betterment of Our Community
Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” – Leonardo da Vinci
As the summer sun relinquishes its fiery grip on the beautiful valleys of Kashmir, a unique trend has emerged this year. With scorching temperatures making traditional summer weddings a challenge, many Kashmiri families have wisely chosen to delay their marriage ceremonies, opting instead for the cooler months of September to November. This shift not only brings respite from the heat but also offers a valuable lesson in celebrating love and togetherness with simplicity.
Kashmir, often described as “Paradise on Earth,” has long been renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. The grandeur of Kashmiri weddings, with their rich traditions, elaborate rituals, and opulent feasts, is equally well-known. However, the soaring temperatures in recent summers have taken their toll, making these celebrations more about extravagance than the love and unity they represent.
This change in wedding timing provides a timely opportunity to reflect on the essence of marriage ceremonies. The common message to the public, both in Kashmir and beyond, should resonate with the idea of embracing simplicity and shunning extravagance.
“The greatest step towards a life of simplicity is to learn to let go.” – Steve Maraboli
First and foremost, extravagant weddings often lead to financial strain for families. The pressure to host a lavish event, with all the bells and whistles, can burden families with debt for years to come. By choosing a more straightforward and economical celebration, couples and their families can start their married life on a stronger financial footing.
Furthermore, the environmental impact of extravagant weddings cannot be ignored. The excess waste, energy consumption, and carbon footprint generated by large-scale events are detrimental to the fragile ecosystems of Kashmir and the planet at large. As stewards of this exquisite region, we have a responsibility to protect its natural beauty for generations to come.
Let us not forget the emotional toll that extravagant weddings can take as well. The stress and anxiety associated with planning and executing a lavish affair can overshadow the joy of the occasion. By simplifying the celebration, couples can focus on what truly matters – their love and commitment to one another.
In the spirit of celebrating Kashmiri weddings during the cooler months, let us embrace a renewed sense of purpose. Let us prioritize love over luxury, unity over opulence, and simplicity over extravagance. By doing so, we honor the traditions and values that make Kashmiri culture unique while also safeguarding our environment and our financial well-being.
 “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.” – Coco Chanel
The message is clear: It’s time to rekindle the true spirit of Kashmiri weddings by making them more about love, togetherness, and shared moments of joy. Let us cherish the memories we create, not the extravagance we display. In doing so, we will pave the way for a brighter future filled with meaningful and sustainable celebrations.
Additional Benefits for the Community:
Financial Stability: Extravagant weddings often result in financial burdens not only for the immediate families but also for the community at large. When families overspend on weddings, they may need financial assistance from relatives or community members, diverting resources from more essential needs.
Community Development: By practicing frugality in weddings, families can allocate resources toward community development initiatives such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. These investments can uplift the entire community and contribute to its progress.
Social Equality: Extravagant weddings can inadvertently create disparities within the community. Those who cannot afford lavish celebrations may feel marginalized or pressured to go into debt. Encouraging modest weddings fosters social equality, where all members can participate equally.
Cultural Preservation: The essence of Kashmiri culture lies in its traditions and values. By simplifying weddings, we can better preserve these cultural aspects, ensuring they are passed down to future generations intact.
Environmental Responsibility: A focus on eco-friendly weddings aligns with the global movement toward sustainability. By reducing waste and minimizing the carbon footprint of weddings, the community can contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone.
Social Cohesion: When the community collectively values and practices simplicity in weddings, it fosters a sense of togetherness. Such shared values create stronger bonds among community members, enhancing social cohesion and harmony.
Education and Empowerment: Resources saved from extravagant weddings can be channeled into educational programs, scholarships, and skill development initiatives. This empowers the youth and ensures they have brighter prospects for the future.
Philanthropy and Charity: Wedding celebrations can also be an opportunity for charitable acts. Families can allocate a portion of their wedding budget to support local charities or sponsor less fortunate community members in need.
Mental Health and Well-being: Simplifying weddings can reduce the stress and anxiety associated with planning and financing extravagant events. Better mental health within the community leads to happier and more productive individuals.
Setting a Positive Example: When prominent members of the community choose simplicity over extravagance, they set a positive example for others to follow. This can lead to a ripple effect where more families adopt similar practices.
In conclusion, embracing simplicity in weddings benefits not only individual families but the entire community. It fosters financial stability, social equality, cultural preservation, environmental responsibility, and social cohesion. By making conscious choices to avoid extravagance, we pave the way for a stronger, more united, and prosperous community that can collectively address its challenges and build a brighter future for all.
About the Author:
Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon is a renowned Columnist & Motivational Speaker and an Associate Editor of the Weekly Publication ‘Education Quill.’ He currently serves as the Senior EDP Head at DD Target PMT Kashmir, a reputable institute renowned for its coaching classes in the medical/JEE/Foundation Classes.

Role of social media in our lives

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ROLE OF SOCIALMEDIA IN OUR LIVES

ENGAGE, ENLIGHTEN, ENCOURAGE SOCIAL MEDIA IS MORE ABOUT SOCIOLOGY AND
AND SPECIALLY JUST BE YOURSELF PSYCHOLOGY THAN IT’S ABOUT TECHNOLOGY
~SUSAN COPPER ~ANONYMOUS

THE POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA IS THAT IT
FORCES A NECESSARY CHANGE
~ERIK QUALMAN

“The Double-Edged Sword: How Social Media Has Transformed Our Lives”
Umais Mudasir Farooqi
umaismudasir18@gmail.com
Social media plays a vital role in our lives today. When we compare today’s era with the past, we observe a stark contrast. In the past, before the advent of technology, life was simple, tranquil, and clean. However, in today’s world, we see a more complex society that emphasizes advancement and modernization. The increase in technological advancements has brought about significant changes in our society, with social media being a major driver of this transformation.

Life before social media was undoubtedly pure and simple, but it was also somewhat isolated from the world’s current events. People led good lives, but there was a lack of exposure to the broader world. Their knowledge remained static, and they were often unaware of the realities beyond their immediate surroundings. Many relied on superstitions and irrational beliefs, creating their own mythologies. While some were literate and could discern right from wrong, others followed irrational beliefs.

The advent of social media brought about a global revolution that impacted the lives of every individual. People became more connected and began to lead more organized lives. It also had a significant influence on mental health, reforming and renovating the way people thought. As people became familiar with social media, they started craving more technological advancements to improve the world further.

Today, people have become heavily reliant on social media. It has both positive and negative impacts, depending on its usage. When utilized for the betterment of society, social media can be a powerful tool for education. Many students prefer online learning through social media platforms, and numerous channels provide educational content. Social media has made it easier for remote areas to access business opportunities through communication and transportation.

Moreover, social media has not only revolutionized education but also transformed the way we consume news and information. It has become a primary source of news for many, shaping public opinion and driving social and political discourse. However, it has also given rise to concerns about the spread of misinformation and “echo chambers” where people are exposed only to like-minded views.

However, social media also has its limitations and drawbacks. Excessive use can negatively affect mental and physical health. Addiction to social media can lead to a loss of focus on personal goals and priorities. It’s crucial to recognize these negative aspects and use social media responsibly.

In the context of businesses, social media has revolutionized marketing and customer engagement. Companies utilize various social media platforms to reach a global audience, promote their products and services, and engage with customers in real-time. This has opened up new avenues for entrepreneurship and created a more level playing field for small businesses to compete with larger corporations.

As Aubaid Akhoon, the renowned columnist, once said, “As we navigate the digital landscape of the 21st century, let us remember that social media is a double-edged sword, capable of connecting hearts and minds, but also of blurring the lines between reality and illusion. Its true power lies not in the platform itself, but in how we choose to wield it—either to illuminate the path to progress or to deepen the shadows of distraction. Let’s use it as a tool to enlighten our minds, connect with others, and nurture our society’s growth, all while preserving the gems of wisdom we encounter along the way.”

Education plays a significant role in how individuals use social media. It’s not just about accumulating information; it should also involve character development and life-building experiences. We must apply the knowledge we gain from social media to make a positive impact on society by changing negative behaviors and attitudes.

Bottom line: social media provides a platform for self-expression and connection. To make the most of it, we should use it responsibly and contribute positively to our society. Just like a valuable gem, we should preserve and utilize this resource wisely. Social media has reshaped our world in profound ways, and its influence continues to evolve as technology advances and society adapts to these changes.

Umais Mudasir
Class 11th
“ The student is a disciple of renowed Columnist Aubaid Akhoon”

Improving Digital quality of life in India, cover story 18 September 2023

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Improving Digital Quality of Life in India
News Kashmir
The Digital Quality of Life (DQL) Index by cyber-security company Surfshark is an annual study that ranks 121 countries by their digital wellbeing based on 5 core pillars — internet quality, internet affordability, e-security, e-infrastructure and e-government.
Digital life allows us to receive online education at any time and almost everywhere. Information for research can be easily found through search engines which can provide thousands of results for a single question.
India has been ranked 52nd out of 121 countries in Digital Quality of Life Index survey. The survey has been carried out by cybersecurity firm Surfshark. The annual survey by the Netherlands-based firm has ranked 121 countries on five factors: internet quality, internet affordability, e-infrastructure, e-government and e-security.
In many nations, ‘digital quality of life’ has merged into the broader concept of overall ‘quality of life’. There’s no other way to look at it now that so many daily activities, including work, education, and leisure, are done online. That’s why it’s crucial to pinpoint the areas in which a nation’s digital quality of life thrives and where attention is needed, which is the precise purpose of the DQL Index”, says Surfshark spokesperson Gabriele Racaityte-Karasauske.
India was ranked 59th last year. This means that it has jumped seven places this time. Surfshark has said that this jump is due to improvement in internet quality in the country. In terms of internet quality, India ranks 16th among 121 countries.
As a matter of fact,
From communication and transport to healthcare and connectivity, the digital technology has enhanced our lives for the better. The best part is that it is ever-evolving by facilitating more advanced features. For instance, we have come far from traditional audio calls to instant messaging and facetime.
We need to bear in mind that
Developing a digital mindset requires cultivating curiosity about technology and its potential. Embrace a mindset of exploration and experimentation. Be open to trying new digital tools, platforms, and software.
The improvements in Digital Quality of Life in India is a step in right direction.
On the otherhand of the spectrum, internet affordability remains a question for the majority of the population. India holds the 28th rank in terms of internet affordability. It considers the time spent working to afford the cheapest broadband and mobile internet. For fixed broadband and mobile internet, Indians must work for 1 hour, 48 minutes, and 44 minutes, 22 seconds each month, respectively.
 The Index highlights the gaps in the nation’s digital infrastructure and draws our attention to improving them. It holds the 91st rank in terms of e-infrastructure. Recently, the G20 forum revealed that the adoption of digital public infrastructure has been boosted. This parameter measures the number of active internet users and their smooth online experiences.
With every passing day Digital Quality of Life in India is improving.

Hindi Diwas, Editorial 18 September 2023 issue

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Hindi Diwas

Hindi Diwas or Hindi Day is celebrated in India to commemorate the date 14 September 1949 on which a compromise was reached—during the drafting of the Constitution of India—on the languages that were to have official status in the Republic of India.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah has extended his best wishes to the countrymen on the occasion of Hindi Diwas. In his message, the Home Minister said that India has been a country of diverse languages. Hindi unites the diversity of languages in the world’s largest democracy. He said that Hindi has been a democratic language. It has honoured different Indian languages and dialects as well as many global languages and adopted their vocabularies, sentences and grammar rules.

Union Home Minister said that the Hindi language played an unprecedented role in uniting the country during the difficult days of independence movement. It instilled a feeling of unity in a country divided into many languages and dialects. Hindi, as a language of communication, played an important role in carrying forward the freedom struggle from East to West and North to South in the country. Shri Shah said that the movements for achieving ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Swabhasha’ were going on simultaneously in the country. Considering the important role of Hindi in the freedom movement and after independence, the architects of the Constitution had accepted Hindi as the official language on 14 September 1949.
We need to bear in mind that Hindi serves as a bridge between different cultures, enabling communication and understanding between speakers of Hindi and other languages such as Urdu. This linguistic connection is particularly significant in the Indian subcontinent, where Hindi and Urdu share many similarities.

Choosing Careers Wisely: The Modern Kashmiri Youth Dilemma”

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“Choosing Careers Wisely: The Modern Kashmiri Youth Dilemma”
Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon
Introduction: The vibrancy of a nation often rests upon the shoulders of its youth. Their education and employment opportunities are the lifeblood that sustains a nation’s vigor, allowing it to shine on the global stage. A society’s health is mirrored in the state of its youth; disheartened and anxious young individuals can hinder societal advancement. Therefore, it is imperative for nations to prioritize the well-being and prospects of their youth to thrive and progress.
In the picturesque realm of Kashmir, where nature’s beauty meets a rich cultural tapestry, the youth are brimming with immense talent and qualifications. However, opportunities have, at times, remained elusive. Despite their unwavering determination and dedication, many of them continue to grapple with unemployment and limited prospects, leaving them vulnerable to various social challenges. It is our collective duty to take proactive measures, carving a path towards their happiness, success, and growth, thereby unlocking their potential for the betterment of the region.
Kashmir, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and historical significance, has faced its own set of challenges over the years. The region’s youthful population, bubbling with promise and untapped potential, should not be left behind in the pursuit of progress and prosperity. This article delves into the unique challenges confronted by the youth in Kashmir and underscores the critical importance of empowering them for a brighter future. We will explore the formidable barriers they face and propose innovative solutions that can not only harness their latent potential but also contribute significantly to the overall development of Kashmir.
An unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates
Nestled within the enchanting valleys of Kashmir, where the beauty of nature knows no bounds, it becomes crucial to examine the prevailing aspirations of the region’s youth. For generations, the dream of securing a government job has been deeply etched into the cultural fabric of Kashmir. However, it’s time to reassess these aspirations and explore the multifaceted opportunities that lie beyond the realm of government employment.
 The Obsession with Government Jobs
Kashmiri society has long held government jobs in high regard. The promise of job security, a stable income, and the prestige associated with government positions have made them the ultimate goal for many. Young men and women invest their valuable time and energy in competitive exams, interviews, and navigating the bureaucratic maze in pursuit of these coveted positions.
 Challenges in the Private Sector:
While the allure of government jobs is undeniable, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges that come with this fixation. The private sector, often overlooked, offers a plethora of opportunities for the enterprising youth of Kashmir. Unlike the limited vacancies in government positions, private sector roles often outnumber job seekers, providing a broader spectrum of choices.
• Promoting Entrepreneurship: Encourage and support young entrepreneurs by providing easy access to funding, mentorship programs, and incubation centers. Entrepreneurship can create job opportunities and diversify the economic landscape.
• Skill Development: Establish vocational training centers and skill development programs tailored to the needs of the private sector. This will bridge the gap between the skills youth possess and the skills demanded by the job market.
• Government-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between the government and private sector to create job opportunities. Public-private partnerships can drive economic growth and provide employment avenues.
• Promote Startups: Create a favorable environment for startups by reducing bureaucratic hurdles, offering tax incentives, and providing access to co-working spaces. Startups can become significant job creators.
• Diversify Industries: Encourage the diversification of industries beyond traditional sectors. Invest in emerging sectors such as technology, renewable energy, tourism, and agriculture, which can provide diverse employment options.
 Dispelling the Heavy Workload Myth
One common misconception is that private sector jobs entail an overwhelming workload. While it’s true that these roles can be demanding, they also come with substantial benefits. Competitive salaries, enhanced growth prospects, and exposure to a diverse range of experiences make the private sector an appealing alternative.
• Work-Life Balance: Emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the private sector. Promote flexible work arrangements and stress management programs.
• Career Advancement: Showcase success stories of individuals who started in the private sector and went on to achieve great career heights. Highlight the potential for growth and advancement.
 Addressing the Rising Unmarried Ratio
A concerning trend in Kashmir is the rising unmarried ratio, where eligible youth find it increasingly challenging to secure life partners. One contributing factor is the preference among parents for government-employed sons-in-law. However, it’s essential to broaden our perspectives. Rizk (provision) is in the hands of Allah, and the occupation of the groom should not overshadow his character.
• Embracing Diversity in Marriage Prospects
In matters of matrimony, it’s time to shift our focus from government jobs to the character and qualities of potential life partners. A groom’s worth should not be solely determined by his job title but by his values, integrity, and the love and respect he offers. Empowering our daughters to choose partners based on these virtues can lead to more dignified and fulfilling marriages.
 Government’s Role in Job Creation
Amidst the pursuit of government jobs, it’s essential for the government to recognize the aspirations of the youth. The private sector in Kashmir is facing significant challenges, with limited job opportunities. The youth of Kashmir are often driven to despair, grappling with unemployment, and some even turn to destructive coping mechanisms.
• Invest in Infrastructure: Develop infrastructure that supports industries in the private sector, such as technology parks, industrial zones, and logistics hubs.
• Incentivize Job Creation: Offer incentives to private companies that create jobs, such as tax breaks, subsidies, and grants for hiring local talent.
• Promote Remote Work: Encourage remote work opportunities, which can bridge geographical gaps and provide access to a broader job market.
“Create jobs for others by using your experience in the private sector.”
Governments play a vital role in fostering economic growth and job creation. It’s imperative for policymakers to invest in and promote industries, entrepreneurship, and skill development to expand employment opportunities. Initiatives that encourage and support the establishment of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can provide a lifeline for the unemployed youth of Kashmir.
 Combatting the Menace of Drug Abuse and Suicidal Tendencies
The rising unemployment rate in Kashmir has led to dire consequences, with many unemployed youth succumbing to the dark abyss of drug abuse and even contemplating suicide. It is an urgent issue that cannot be ignored. The government, in addition to creating jobs, must prioritize mental health support and rehabilitation programs to help those struggling with substance abuse and despair.
• Mental Health Support: Establish accessible mental health services and helplines to provide support and counseling to those struggling with depression and despair.
• Community Outreach: Engage community leaders, schools, and religious institutions in raising awareness about the importance of mental health and seeking help when needed.
• Skill-Based Programs: Introduce skill-based programs and recreational activities to engage the youth positively and divert their focus away from destructive behaviors.
Tailpiece:
“Happiness depends upon ourselves.” – Aristotle
It’s high time for the youth of Kashmir to expand their horizons and explore opportunities beyond the traditional pursuit of government jobs. While these jobs provide stability, the private sector offers a wider array of experiences and competitive remuneration. Additionally, in matters of marriage, let us remember the words of Plato: “At the touch of love, everyone becomes a poet.” May love and character be the guiding principles in the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment for the youth of Kashmir.
In this journey of self-discovery and empowerment, it’s essential to remember that life’s true treasures often lie beyond the conventional, waiting to be uncovered by those who dare to explore. The government must take active steps to address unemployment, mental health, and substance abuse issues plaguing the youth, ensuring a brighter and more hopeful future for Kashmir.
About the Author:
Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon is a renowned Columnist & Motivational Speaker and an Associate Editor of the Weekly Publication ‘Education Quill.’ He currently serves as the Senior EDP Head at DD Target PMT Kashmir, a reputable institute renowned for its coaching classes in the medical/JEE/Foundation Classes.

India’s Marvel to Moon

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India’s Marvel to Moon
A pride moment for me as Indian
By Faisal Khankashi
The Indian journey to moon with success has nothing short of a fairy tale. It is the result of untiring hard work and efforts of the scientists of this country. Whole nation is ecstatic after success of Moon mission of India. I as a kashmiri and Indian feel proud on the achievements of our nation  and salute the resolve and hardworking of the scientists of our country.
It is a matter of great joy that The Lander Module (LM) of the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) third lunar mission Chandrayaan-3, launched on July 14, made a successfully landing on the Moon’s surface on August 23, making India only the fourth country after the erstwhile USSR, the U.S. and China to make a soft landing on the lunar surface.
It is the result of utmost dedication shown by our leadership since independence and also dynamic efforts given by the  Prime Minister Narendra Modi lead Government to ensure that India becomes the first nation to reach the South pole axis of Moon and attains a global superpower status.
The remarks of esteemed Prime Minister Narendra Modi summed up the mood of entire nation.
Addressing ISRO, PM Modi congratulated the scientists and said, “No country has reached the South Pole of the Moon before. With the hard work of our scientists, we have reached there. India’s successful Moon mission is not just India’s alone…This success belongs to all of humanity.”
PM Narendra Modi also said that the successful landing on the Moon is the dawn of a new India. “When we see such historic moments it makes us very proud. This is the dawn of new India,” PM Modi said.
Every nook and corner of India after the successful mission is much confident that soon the nation of Bharat would be a global superpower.
The nation of Bharat is rightly lauding its heroes.
A recent video which was quite heartwarming showed that
ISRO chairman S Somanath being welcomed on an Indigo flight has won people over. The video shows Indigo cabin crew Pooja Shah announcing how they are extremely happy to have S Somanath with them on the flight. Whole ISRO team is being saluted by the entire country. The brain behind India’s ambitious moon mission is S Somanath. Besides, P Veeramuthuvel is the project director for India’s latest lunar touchdown, with Kalpana K as the deputy project director.
The successful moon journey has given new flight to dreams of India of conquering the space.
As a matter of great pride,
India launched its first spacecraft dedicated to studying the sun, building on a month of historic successes for the country’s civil space efforts.
The spacecraft, called Aditya-L1, launched from Sriharikota, an island off the Bay of Bengal, at 11:50 a.m. Saturday local time (2:20 am ET). And it’s headed to a parking spot in orbit about 930,000 miles (1.5 million kilometers) from Earth.
The successful liftoff of Aditya-L1 comes less than two weeks after India’s space agency, the Indian Space Research Organization, made history by landing its Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft on the lunar surface. The achievement made India only the fourth nation in the world — and the second in the 21st century — to land a vehicle safely on the moon.
I as a youth of Jammu and Kashmir urge my people especially the youth to study hard and excel in scientific world with vigor so that India becomes global leader and we the youth of Kashmir contribute much to our nation  building.
The nature of success achieved by the moon mission of India has made it sure that India can as a nation achieve anything and nothing is impossible for us as country.
( The writer is prominent tourism stakeholder of Jammu and Kashmir, India ).

World Suicide Prevention Day, Editorial 11 September, 2023

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World Suicide Prevention Day

Suicide is a major public health problem with far-reaching social, emotional and economic consequences. It is estimated that there are currently more than 700 000 suicides per year worldwide, and we know that each suicide profoundly affects many more people.

 

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO). The 10th of September each year focuses attention on the issue, reduces stigma and raises awareness among organizations, government, and the public, giving a singular message that suicide can be prevented.
“Creating Hope Through Action” is the triennial theme for the World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021-2023. This theme serves as a powerful call to action and reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and that through our actions we can encourage hope and strengthen prevention.

By creating hope through action, we can signal to people experiencing suicidal thoughts that there is hope and that we care and want to support them. It also suggests that our actions, no matter how big or small, may may provide hope to those who are struggling.

Lastly, it serves as a reminder that suicide prevention is a public health priority and urgent action is required to make sure suicide mortality rates are reduced. WHO will continue to work with its partners to support countries to take concrete measures in this direction.
In Kashmir too Suicide rate has climbed much causing concerns and efforts should be given to counsel those feeling tremendous depression.
We need to bear in mind that we can all play a role in supporting those experiencing a suicidal crisis or those bereaved by suicide whether as a member of society, as a child, as a parent, as a friend, as a colleague or as a person with lived experience.

G20 in India

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G20 in India
News Kashmir Analysis
The G20 is composed of most of the world’s largest economies’ finance ministries, including both industrialised and developing countries; it accounts for around 80% of gross world product (GWP), 75% of international trade, two-thirds of the global population, and 60% of the world’s land area.
Leaders from the most powerful nations in the world flocked  to New Delhi for the G20 Heads of State and Government Summit held on September 9-10.
It has been seen as the rise of India as a global leader .
The culmination of India’s year-long presidency of the G20, the summit envisages to be  concluded with the adoption of a G20 Leaders’ Declaration, which will state the participating leaders’ commitment towards the priorities discussed and agreed upon during the respective ministerial and working group meetings.
The summit was  held at the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) complex, also known as Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi’s Pragati Maidan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated this complex on July 26 this year. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a convention centre, exhibition halls, and an amphitheatre.
As a matter of fact, As of 2023, there are 20 members in the group: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, South Korea, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the European Union. Guest invitees include, amongst others, Spain, the United Nations, the World Bank, the African Union and ASEAN.
United States President Joe Biden on Friday said that he is headed for India to hold discussions with other G20 leaders on several pressing world issues. Taking to his official X (formerly known as Twitter) account, Biden said that every time the G20 engages, it “gets better”.
“I’m headed to the G20 – the premier forum for international economic cooperation – focused on making progress on Americans’ priorities, delivering for developing nations, and showing our commitment to the G20 as a forum that can deliver. Every time we engage, we get better,” Joe Biden said.
As a matter of fact, The main agenda for the annual meeting of the G20 countries in Delhi includes climate change, economic development and debt burdens in low-income countries as well as inflation including food and fertilizers. On each of these issues, there are deep divisions among the participants with the Russia-Ukraine war causing a major schism between Russia and China at one end and the Western Block on the other.
The holding of G20 summit 2023 in India is a big achievement for India.

I am passionate about traveling: Preeti Chopra

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I am passionate about traveling: Preeti Chopra
Preeti Chopra is a well known traveler, known for exploring different parts of world especially India. She is a dynamic intellect.
In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir  she talks with Rameez Makhdoomi.
A bit about your early life?
I grew up in a typical middle class Punjabi family in Delhi, where both of my parents were government employees so you can pretty much imagine my childhood, it was restricted conservative(too an extent) and very very disciplined. The good thing is that it instilled very strong ethics and values in me and shaped my character. I don’t meet a lot of people like me and I stand my ground because of my parents upbringing. Having said that , there was a lot of pressure of getting into a good government post and very high expectations from me since I was a scholar as a kid. Apparently my story flipped totally, and breaking from my family patterns has been, still is the biggest battle and struggle of my life.
A bit about your academic life?
I was definitely a nerd growing up, obsessed with scoring the highest marks, topping the class and sections , I was the class monitor, captain head and cultural head girl , teachers favourite. Always into books and finishing the syllabus before session even started. Everything changed after 10th grade. My perspective changed on academics. I opted for commerce but pursued my graduation in arts and then a diploma in special education and master’s in psychology. Out of all, I realised psychology came very naturally to me. But I haven’t pursued any career out of it yet.
Tell us about your travelling zeal ?
I am very very passionate about traveling. I am more of an explorer. I have domestically travelled quite a lot. I love India. I’m not saying this because I’m Indian but because you go to a different state, it’s a different world, you can dress differently, food is different. It’s so rich in culture. I have been from Jammu and Kashmir to Karnataka, to Gujarat to Kolkata, Rajasthan, Goa, Varanasi, Tripura, Himachal, uttrakhand, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Agra, and many other smaller cities.
Your inspiration?
 I derive my inspiration from various sources, people around me , stories books, movies. Very few times from a celebrity. But I have been the biggest fan of Princess Diana and Sadguru.
What are your professional fortes?
Dancing, acting and Theatre. I am also a public speaking and creative writing trainer. But performing arts fuel me the most.
Your message to humanity?
Stop Delaying things on Tomorrow and Being Kind. Procrastination is a theif of joy. Do whatever you have to do now, with or without someone else. I took my first solo trip after an accident. If it had been tragic, I would have regretted plans I made for future. Tomorrow isn’t promise so take the trip, enroll yourself in the course, pursue the hobby you always wanted and apply for that job. Don’t fear failure. Failure is only a feedback. And be kind while you do all this. Don’t screw people over. We need compassion for others , and most importantly for ourselves.