Physical activity is important for half an hour: Dr Manit Arora

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Physical activity is important for half an
hour daily: Dr Manit Arora
Dr Manit Arora, Senior Consultant, Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Fortis Hospital Mohali, is a renowned name in the field of orthopaedics. Dr Arora is trained in orthopaedics, arthroscopy and sports medicine, and specialises in shoulder, hip, knee and sports-related injuries. In an exclusive interview with The News Kashmir, Dr Arora talks to Rameez Makhdoomi.
How has been your experience in Kashmir?
Kashmir is an awesome place. The people here are lovely, and the climate is superb. The cuisines of Kashmir are also world class. Overall, my experience has been terrific.
You were in Australia. What brought you back to India?
The initial years of my life and most of my education has been in Australia. I have also studied in Japan and the US. But I wanted to serve my country and returned home. It has been quite an enriching experience.
You have treated world-class sportspersons. What is your focus on?
My aim is to get injured sportsmen back on their feet in a limited time frame. I have treated several renowned sportspersons including Indian Hockey Team Vice-Captain and drag flick sensation, Harmanpreet Singh, and forward player Gurjant Singh for sports-related injuries prior to the Tokyo Olympics, 2020. Harmanpreet Singh was able to return to the game within six months.
What is your take on sedentary lifestyle being followed by many?
Sedentary lifestyle can be dangerous to one’s health and can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. Physical activity is important for at least half an hour daily. One should consume a balanced diet and ensure it has all nutrients. Only then can we ensure a strong body.
Kashmir witnesses harsh winters. How can people here maintain good orthopaedic health?
During extreme cold, people above 50 years of age should try to stay indoors. They should also undertake light exercise sessions. Winter can also flare up pain, so it is important to soak up the sun. Also, it is important to consume a healthy, balanced diet.
Accidental injuries of grim nature are hampering many. What is your take on that?
In case of accident cases, the first line of treatment is quite critical as it ensures swift recovery. We had two patients from Kashmir who required external fixators and we got that done. Coordination among doctors is also important to ensure swift recovery of injuries in accident cases.

International Day of Non-Violence, Editorial 2 october 2023

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International Day of Non Violence
Peace is must for survival of humanity.War has since ages destroyed humanity and its fabric. Violence is a hydra headed monster . Progress,  prosperity and human values can be enriched only in peaceful times. Violence destroys everything.
The International Day of Non-Violence is marked on 2 October, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence. The General Assembly, in a resolution adopted on 5 June 2007, established the commemoration, the International Day as an occasion to disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness. The resolution reaffirms the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence and the desire to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence.
As a matter of fact,
Gandhi was one of the world’s greatest and most influential leaders in the last century and there’s plenty we can learn from him. Here are two of his most beloved quotes. “There are many causes I would die for. There is not a single cause I would kill for.” “An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.”
This day is recognised to educate people about the importance of peaceful coexistence and conflict prevention. The day was founded with a strong aim to create a non-violent and harmonious world. International Day of Peace provides a platform for people and communities to show their contribution towards developing a peaceful world for all.
On this day, Schools can encourage their students to take pledges by holding special assemblies or events on International Peace Day. They can also incorporate peace education into the curriculum and provide opportunities for students to get involved in peacebuilding activities.
We need to spread love and humanity throughout world.

Excessive Salt Woes, cover story 2 October 2023

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Excessive Salt Woes
News Kashmir Analysis
Salt is important for our diet.
It helps you stay hydrated. To stay better hydrated your body needs a delicate balance of sodium and potassium.
Promotes good vascular health.
Balances electrolytes and prevents muscle cramping.
An estimated mean daily salt intake in India stands at 8.0 g (8.9 g/day for men and 7.1 g/day for women) against the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendation of up to 5 g daily.
Additionally the salt intake was significantly higher in men, those in rural areas and overweight and obese respondents, according to a recent survey by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) published in the Nature journal. The study is based on a sample survey carried out as part of National NCD Monitoring Survey (NNMS) in India.
The study was conducted in a nationally representative sample wherein dietary sodium intake was estimated from spot urine samples, a validated method used to assess intake. The population mean was calculated using sampling weights; thus, the study findings could be generalised at a population level and used to plan and implement control measures.
“The information on awareness and behaviour of salt intake was self-reported and could be subjected to information bias. The study did not capture data on the actual dietary sources of salt in food items and condiments for any correlation analysis,” it said while declaring the limitation of the study.
The excess use of salt is harmful.The global average salt intake is estimated to be 10.8 grams per day, more than double the WHO recommendation of less than 5 grams of salt per day (one teaspoon). Eating too much salt makes it the top risk factor for diet and nutrition-related deaths. More evidence is emerging documenting links between high sodium intake and increased risk of other health conditions such as gastric cancer, obesity, osteoporosis and kidney disease.
WHO calls on Member States to implement sodium intake reduction policies without delay and to mitigate the harmful effects of excessive salt consumption. WHO also calls on food manufacturers to set ambitious sodium reduction targets in their products.
In Kashmir Valley too we are among the highest consuming places of salt in world. From Bakery to tea we have salt in everything, which needs to be controlled.
Frequent urination is a classic sign that you are consuming too much salt. Most of the time, you may feel an urgent need to wake up in the middle of the night to urinate.
Consuming too much salt can give you swelling in different parts of the body. This could be a reason why you feel bloated in the morning. The swelling can be felt on the fingers and around the ankles. This swelling is caused by excessive fluids in the body’s tissues and is known as edema. Edema is believed to be a symptom of an underlying health condition or a sign of the fact that you are consuming too much salt. Simple solution for this is to cut down on your sodium intake.
The salt woes should be addressed as soon  as possible to save this planet from havoc.
We in Kashmir should also limit the use of salt to have healthy life.

Historic development: Women Reservation Bill Passed, cover story 25 September 2023

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Historic development: Women Reservation Bill Passed
News Kashmir Analysis
Reservation for women especially in the elected bodies of the country had been long pending dream of women of India to achieve empowerment.
In a landmark previous week,Twenty-seven years after the women’s reservation Bill was first introduced in Parliament, the Lok Sabha on September 20 passed a Bill with near unanimity to amend the Constitution and provide one-third reservation to women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.
Calling it a “historic legislation” that will enable greater participation of women in the political process, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly, Twitter) to thank the Lok Sabha members.
On the otherhand,  The Rajya Sabha on Thursday (September 21) unanimously passed the Bill proposing to reserve one-third of all seats for women in the Lok Sabha, the state legislatures, and the Delhi legislative assembly. The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eight Amendment) Bill 2023 was introduced by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in the upper house , after the Lok Sabha passed it.
News Kashmir talked to cross section of women on this historic feat.
Rekha Mody, Founder Stree Shakti and She Leads ,a prominent voice of the country championing reservation cause  for women since long while talking to the News Kashmir
observed that ” It is a historic development.  Yes Indian women have united. Only 2 votes in opposition, we have created history . New India will usher in peace, prosperity and progress with women’s participation. “
Several other voices also affirmed their views.
Kusum Kaul , Prominent buisness leader and activist  remarked that
Women Reservation Bill Is an excellent initiative by the Government of india to give proper and much needed space to 49% women of india in Politics.
She remarked further :”
According to Article 334 of Indian constitution, this reservation will come to effect after delimitation and that will happen only when census takes place, which is due overtime . So, if Modi jee wants to take the credit of introducing women Reservation Bill , he has to swiftly act on other 2 parameters first . As some opposition parties shared their concern that before passing this bill, the reservation for schedule castes, schedule tribes and other Minorities like Sikhs, Jains and parsis should also be taken into consideration within this reservation.
Besides the political parties don’t have enough women members to field in as candidates during elections, I think it will become imperative to field in wives/ daughters and sisters of the politicians, who are known to the voters. Winning the election is of utmost priority for all parties rather than fielding 33% women Women Reservation Bill Is an excellent initiative by the Government of india to give proper and much needed space to 49% women of india in Politics.  Here is the twist to the tale . Political parties will have to rope in more such women, who can win elections. A humongous exercise  for the parties . In BJP , women candidates will win in the name of Modi jee, in Bengal may  be due to Mamta Didi , but a stalemate for other parties. This is not an easy proposition in  the present scenario for opposition . It needs time for all, but the procedure needs to be started as soon as possible. It will take time both for Government as well as parties to prepare for this Reservation and give women of india their due representation in Indian parliament. The sensitive and thoughtful nature of women may take away the violence, malpractices and goondaism from the Election scenario of india . The
parties will have to rope in more women . The process will take time both for Government as well as parties to prepare for this Reservation and give women of india their due representation in Indian parliament. The sensitive and thoughtful nature of women may take away the violence, malpractices and goondaism from the Election scenario of india . “
It is pertinent to mention that prominent women  face of Politics in Jammu and Kashmir, Senior BJP leader
and Vice Chairperson of J&K Khadi & Village Industries Board – Dr. Hina Shafi Bhat stated :”
It’s great step taken by honorable  Prime Minister Narendra Modi.  A Remarkable step towards women empowerment
Two parliament seat share will be given to J&k
We will see now about 180 women parliament members.
Women are the back bone of society they can nourish country with better loyalty and dedication. It’s historic step towards respect and gender equality.”
Dr KuwaRani Ritu Singh, well known Entrepreneur and educationist of the country while talking to News Kashmir stated:”
The passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill is a monumental step towards gender
equality in our nation. In a society where gender disparities have long been entrenched, this
legislation marks an unprecedented leap forward, ensuring that the voices of women are
heard in the corridors of power.
The Women’s Reservation Bill’s impact goes beyond political representation. It sends a
powerful message to young girls across India that their dreams and aspirations have no
limits. It encourages them to aim for the highest offices and contribute meaningfully to the
nation’s progress.
This landmark legislation aligns with India’s commitment to the United Nations
Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5, which focuses on gender equality. It
positions India as a global leader in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.
As we celebrate the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill, it is imperative to
honour and applaud Prime Minister Modi ji’s leadership in advancing women’s role
in legislation, policy-making, and governance. Under his leadership, we’ve seen a
renewed commitment to gender equality, exemplified by the passage of the Women’s
Reservation Bill. His vision for an inclusive and equitable India has been a driving
force behind this historic achievement.
Prime Minister Modi’s dedication to empowering women in all spheres of society is
evident in initiatives like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, and Ujjwala Yojana, which aim to
uplift and support women across the nation. His emphasis on women’s participation
and leadership is a significant step towards a more equitable and progressive India.
As we celebrate these accomplishments, we must remember that the work is far from over.
We need comprehensive strategies to ensure the effective implementation of the Women’s
Reservation Bill, and continued global collaboration to address the pressing challenges that
affect us all. Together, we can create a future where gender equality is not just a national
achievement but a worldwide reality.
Initiating the implementation of this historic bill in Jammu and Kashmir during the upcoming
elections, given the region’s recent delimitation process, would be a strategic move. It would
set a precedent, ensuring that no part of our nation remains untouched by the winds of
change.
In this era of global challenges and opportunities, seizing this historic moment is crucial. By championing women’s empowerment, we can reshape our society, strengthen our economy,
and create a more equitable world. Just as India reached the moon, the success of the G20 ,and the Women’s Reservation Bill can be the catalyst for a future where gender equality is not a dream but a living reality.”

Kokernag Martyrs Tribute, 30 September 2023

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Kokernag Martyrs Tribute
In the highest example of sacrifice for nation recently in an encounter at Gadool Kokernag in South Kashmir three top security officers were martyred along with more security personnel.
The encounter with terrorists continued for many days and few hardcore terrorists were also killed.
As a matter of fact, Major Ashish Dhonchak was one of three Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police officers martyred in action during an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district on the intervening night of September 12-13. The encounter broke out in the Kokernag forest area of Anantnag. Major Dhonchak was part of the joint operation team of the Indian Army and Kashmir South Zone police.
The other two officers who lost their lives are Colonel Manpreet Singh and DSP Humayun Bhat. The Army had received specific intelligence about the presence of two terrorists in Koernag village.
Colonel Manpreet Singh had completed 17 years of service in the Indian Army and was known for his unconventional approach and cordial relations with locals. For his service to the force, Singh was awarded with the prestigious Sena Medal for Gallantry in 2021.
34-year-old Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat was the youngest among the three police and army officials who lost their lives in an encounter with terrorists at Kashmir’s Anantnag on Wednesday, September 13.
DSP Bhat, after being shot by terrorists, had made a video call to this wife, Fatima, where he told her to take care of their two-month-old infant since he believed he would not make it out of the action alive, as per a report by India Today.
The nation is indebted to the Kokernag Martyrs who laid their lives for integrity and security of Bharat with the will to crush the terror and violence.
Nation of India salutes Kokernag Martyrs.

Embers to Flames by Leena Thampi, Book review

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Embers to flames by Leena Thampi – A must read poetic book
Review By Rameez Makhdoomi
Embers to flames by Renowned South Indian Author Leena Thampi is a must read. It is a collection of more than 5 dozen poignant poems focusing on women,their dreams and aspirations.
This spins webs between nature, human love, and spiritual connections.
 The writer has used a very soft and yet impressive language to connote her message.
As the Prologue of the book suggests Poems of Leena Thampi in the ” “Embers To  Flames” are grounded in the diverse mysteries of the world.
Leena Thampi through her strokes of pen has brilliantly articulated the sufferings , strengths and weakness of women.
Born in Jammu and Brought up in Delhi and settled in her South Indian roots. The book lexicon gives idea of long journey of experiences travelled by Leena Thampi .
In her Poem Creator she pays a brilliant tribute to the universal creator God.
‘Deja Vu’ her poem in the book Embers to Flames has these awesome lines :
” I never had to Impress you
You never had to impress me”
Eight billion people and you feel like home, There’s something about eternity, don’t roam, Uncanny synchronicities  exist in us .
Her book has quite romantic moments as well when she writes; I am swallowed in an abyss of love ,you keep the naughty girl alive in me.
Leena Thampi has conveyed the idea of humanity in a very subtle manner in the book without sounding of any complaint tone or note .
“Dust to Dust” poem gives beautiful description of otherwise sad episode of death which needs to be applauded .She’s given a new twist to death poems.
The poem titled”Written with Fire ” is one of my personal favorites.
Leena Thampi has at every step shone like a lamp of intellect in her Journey as an author and Embers to Flames is a beautiful example of the same ,and it’s her fourth book.
With an expert sense of language and narrative, this intrepid poet cranks her high beams to rummage ‘humanity’s basement, the murk inside the mammalian heart’ and unearths each dark, radiant truth.
Embers to Flames is definitely a must read . A book in which Leena Thampi has ticked all boxes .There’s no doubt she’s written it with fire.
She Dips into the ink of ashes and writes her own fire into existence.
©️®️_Leena Thampi

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.