Grim Mood in Kashmir Post Pahalgam Tourist Massacre, cover story 5 May, 2025

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Grim Mood in Kashmir Post Pahalgam Tourist Massacre
News Kashmir Analysis
The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, has dealt a severe blow to Kashmir’s tourism industry. It has also hurt the image of Kashmir. The aftermath of the attack has seen thousands of tourists cutting short their holidays and leaving the region in droves. Special flights and trains were chartered to accommodate the influx of tourists eager to leave.
The Kashmir Hotel Association (KHA) reported a staggering 80% cancellation rate in tourist bookings following the attack. Hotel owners and local businesses are grappling with the devastating impact on their livelihoods. The attack has not only affected the local economy but also tarnished Kashmir’s reputation as a tourist destination.
Tourists from various parts of the country, including Odisha, have been rushing back home, citing safety concerns. Many have cancelled the remainder of their trips, opting to return prematurely rather than risk further exposure to potential danger. The sources in Odisha government has confirmed that a significant number of tourists are canceling their plans to visit Kashmir.
The tourism industry in Kashmir, which is a significant contributor to the local economy, is facing an uncertain future. The region’s breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality have been overshadowed by terror,  fear and uncertainty. The attack has highlighted the vulnerability of the tourism sector to terror threats.
The  government is working to restore normalcy and reassure potential visitors of their safety. However, rebuilding trust will be a challenging task. The Pahalgam terror attack has sent shockwaves through the region, and its impact will be felt for a long time.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the mayhem that terrorism wrecks on the daily chorus of life. The people of Kashmir, who depend heavily on tourism for their livelihood, are anxiously waiting for the situation to return to normal.
As the region struggles to recover from the aftermath of the attack, it is crucial for the authorities to prioritize the safety and security of tourists while also taking measures to promote tourism and revive the local economy. Only time will tell if Kashmir can regain its former glory as a popular tourist destination. The Pahalgam tourist massacre by heinous terrorists has made every eye wet and every home in the country is in mourning demanding culprits and their backers be sent to hell.

Degrees Without Direction: The Employment Drought in Jammu and Kashmir

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Degrees Without Direction: The Employment Drought in Jammu and Kashmir

Rameez Bhat

ramizspeaks77@gmail.com

In the snow carved valleys of Jammu and Kashmir, where rivers run deep and poplars sway, a quiet crisis brews not of storms, but of stifled hopes and unheard voices. From the rugged heights of Gurez to the plains beyond Poonch a generation walks burdened by silent despair. Degrees in hand, ambition in heart but no clear path ahead. A young man in Baramulla dreams of a stable job an honest living. Yet each morning greets him with the same uncertainty. His degrees lies unread, his aspirations slowly fading. His parents encourage him gently urging one more try. But dreams like the autumn Chinar continue to fall. The internet is full of knowledge, his skills are sharp but job opportunities remain scarce. Whether in law, science, arts, technology or trades, the doors seem closed. Academic accolades mean little in a system that offers no outlet. Reports reduce them to numbers, cold statistics in impersonal files. But behind each figure is a son waiting, a daughter hoping. Year after year, promises echo only to fade into bureaucratic silence. Government schemes come with fanfare and slogans, yet the youth still stand in lines, hands empty, spirits worn. In a land so rich in heritage, the irony is stark even the birds seem freer than its young minds.

Leadership remains distant ribbons are cut, photos taken but the real roads remain un-walked. The narrative of “self-reliance” rings hollow when self-sufficiency meets an empty plate. Startups and skilling are often touted, but persistent power cuts and inaccessible loans leave those dreams cold. Policies exist only on paper, while trust and execution are absent.

Time moves forward, yet progress stalls. Traditional crafts are vanishing, artisans left without buyers. Saffron fields lie uncultivated, the markets indifferent. Engineers graduate in droves, but employment evaporates. Tourism gives brief hope, but where is tourism development. The biggest battle today isn’t on borders—it’s in every home, where joblessness eats away at dignity.

A girl in Shopian pours her frustration into poetry, her words sharp and haunting. A boy in Kupwara paints with talent, yet hunger overshadows his creativity. A child in Bandipora whispers, “I’ll leave someday.” But who stays to rebuild if all the hopeful leave? A job isn’t just an income—it’s self-worth, purpose, and peace of mind.

To those in power: awaken. The burdens you don’t bear are crushing the youth. What we need are not just announcements, but real change—visible, sustainable, and sincere. Build institutions that offer more than structure. Nurture creativity, revive local industries, make markets accessible. Trust the old, train the young not every problem is solved with funding alone. We don’t ask for charity or applause. We demand action that lasts.

Let this message be heard—in offices, on screens, in homes. The valley sings, yes, but it also questions. Until every voice is heard, until every talent has a place, this land will ache. Behind every falling Chinar leaf lies buried potential. Jammu and Kashmir doesn’t just need hope it needs opportunity. Let us rise not with false promises, but with real progress. Let the slumber end. Let the state awaken.

 

 

Inclusion for All: Ambedkar’s Vision, Youth Voices, and Autism Awareness Musaib Bilal

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Inclusion for All: Ambedkar’s Vision, Youth Voices, and Autism Awareness

Musaib Bilal

April isn’t only the time to remember the historical legacies such as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar; it is Autism Acceptance and Awareness Month as well — a great reminder that inclusion is neither nice nor desirable, but a requirement. To autistic and other neurodivergent individuals, inclusion can mean empowerment or seclusion. As we celebrate Ambedkar’s dream of equality, we also recommit to building spheres where neurodiverse voices are heard, respected, and cherished.

 

What is Inclusion?

Inclusion is the conscious effort to make spaces where everyone is treated with respect, supported, and enabled to contribute. It involves going beyond tokenism and intentionally breaking down barriers to participate. For autistics, this involves grasping communication difference, sensory requirements, and the need for understanding environments free of judgement and misconception.

Inclusion acknowledges that the world is viewed differently by individuals. Autistic youth, for example, may be confronted by worlds that fail to understand their sensory sensitivities or communication approach. Inclusion honours such differences and adapts to embrace them, not requiring people to conform to traditional norms.

 

Why Inclusion Matters

Exclusion creates isolation, and isolation is hope’s quiet assassin. For autistics, particularly in school and social settings, exclusion most often comes across as being excluded from conversation, possibilities, or even basic interactions. This exclusion stimulates “micro-depressions” — insidious, long-term emotional scars from everyday invalidation and misperception.

In non-inclusive settings, autistic individuals tend to experience “masking,” which involves hiding who they are to blend in. This continuous strain can result in burnout, anxiety, and extreme mental health issues. Inclusion, however, enables individuals to be themselves, minimizing stress and maximizing emotional well-being.

Dr. Ambedkar knew this well. He realized that being kept out of education, decision-making, and society in general was not merely a political wrong but an immense emotional and psychological wound. His struggle for Dalit dignity is akin to the current struggle for autistic acceptance — both are struggles to see the full humanity of all individuals.

 

Dr. Ambedkar and Inclusive Decision-Making

Ambedkar’s contribution to the making of the Indian Constitution was revolutionary. He constructed a system that had dignity and equality at its foundation. He was of the opinion that decision-making must be representative of the diversity of society so that those silenced in the past would be heard.

If Ambedkar were alive today, he would certainly champion inclusive policies that acknowledge neurodiversity and mental health as part of social justice. He would remind us that democracy truly means everyone — not just because of their politics, but also because of their neurological composition.

 

Youth Inclusion and the Role of NSS

Young people are the builders of tomorrow’s inclusive society. Through schemes such as the National Service Scheme (NSS), young people are being taught empathy, service, and active citizenship. NSS programs focused on disability awareness, mental health care, and neurodiversity education are crucial in developing an inclusive society from the ground up.

When youth participate in inclusion initiatives — through autism acceptance drives or establishing sensory-friendly community spaces — they continue Ambedkar’s legacy in effective manners. NSS provides them with the means to convert awareness into action.

 

The Interconnectedness of Youth, Ambedkar, NSS, and Autism Awareness

Ambedkar gave the marginalised the power to take back their place in society. Youth movements, particularly through NSS, have the ability to continue this vision by advocating neurodivergent voices. When young leaders advocate for autism acceptance, they break down destructive stereotypes and create empathetic communities.

 

This connection is cyclical:

Ambedkar’s philosophy instils the value of dignity and representation.

NSS gives the platform to young people to implement these values.

Youth engagement ensures that autism awareness and mental health advocacy remain at the forefront of social change.

Together, they create a force powerful enough to challenge exclusion in all its forms.

 

Oppression, Depression, and the Mental Health Costs of Non-Inclusion

Exclusion is a subtle form of oppression. For autistics, chronic exclusion can create a feeling of invisibility that fuels anxiety and depression. These are usually discounted, being categorized as “micro-depressions” brought about by everyday invalidations and micro-aggressions.

Additionally, chronic micro-aggressions — seemingly minor slighting or belittling remarks — build up over time, solidifying feelings of worthlessness. Identifying these damages is critical if we are to create truly inclusive communities that foster mental health.

Inclusion isn’t merely access; it is affirmation. It is affirming, “You belong here, just as you are.”

 

Towards a Truly Inclusive Future

As we celebrate Autism Acceptance Month and pay tribute to the life and cause of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, let us pledge to create a society in which inclusion becomes the rule and not the exception. Let us empower our young people, on platforms such as NSS, to spearhead this movement with grit and empathy.

By embracing neurodiversity and acknowledging the deeper effects of inclusion on mental wellbeing, we don’t just reinforce Ambedkar’s legacy — we build a world where any person, wherever they are, whatever they have, can exist with dignity, joy, and belonging.

 

The writer is an author, columnist, speaker and is pursuing Bachelor’s at Amar Singh College. Can be reached at: musaibbilal.216061@gmail.com

World Book Day, Editorial 21 April 2025

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World Book Day
Books are important part of our lives. World Book and copyright Day is celebrated on April 23 every year .
As we celebrate World Book Day, it’s essential to reflect on the profound impact books have had on our lives. Books are more than just a source of knowledge; they’re gateways to new worlds, ideas, and perspectives. They have the power to transport us to different eras, cultures, and experiences, broadening our understanding and fostering empathy.
The importance of books in our lives cannot be overstated. They’re a foundation for lifelong learning, providing insights into various subjects, from science and history to art and philosophy. Books offer a wealth of information, helping us navigate life’s complexities and make informed decisions. Whether we’re seeking self-improvement, professional development, or simply a good story, books are invaluable resources.
Beyond their informational value, books also offer solace, inspiration, and motivation. They provide a refuge from life’s challenges, offering comfort and reassurance in times of need. Through the stories and experiences of others, we find the strength to persevere and overcome adversity. Books have a way of touching our hearts and minds, leaving a lasting impact that resonates long after we finish reading them.
As we mark World Book Day, let’s reaffirm our commitment to reading and learning. Let’s encourage others to discover the joy of books and explore the vast literary landscape. By doing so, we can create a more informed, empathetic, and enlightened world. We can foster a culture that values knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking, and that recognizes the transformative power of books.
In an era of rapid technological change, books remain a timeless and essential part of our lives. As we look to the future, let’s ensure that the written word continues to thrive, inspiring and educating generations to come. By embracing the power of books, we can build a brighter, more compassionate world for all. So, let’s celebrate World Book Day by picking up a book, sharing one with a friend, or exploring a new author or genre. The world of books awaits, full of wonder, discovery, and endless possibilities.

Advocate Nalin kohli, BJP National Spokesperson Interview

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Advocate Nalin Kohli, BJP National Spokesperson Interview
Nalin Kohli is a well-known politician of BJP and a senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India. He is one of the official National spokespersons for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir, Nalin Kohli talks to Editor-in-Chief Farzana Mumtaz and Content Editor Rameez Makhdoomi.
Tell us a bit about your fascinating journey from media, politics to law?
The journey of life has been quite fascinating. I started my media journey from Doordarshan, reading the news and also in production and direction . I joined the Bharatiya Janata Party and headed the media wings of several states and became the national spokesperson. I then had a transition to law, becoming an eminent advocate of the Supreme Court. Media has been a passion, politics is an interest, and law has become a profession. So, yes, the journey has been quite fascinating.
How did you like Kashmir?
I often visit Kashmir right from my childhood days. Kashmir is very much beautiful. This time around, I visited mostly Srinagar – Tulip Garden, Jhelum, and played Golf at Royal Springs, as I love playing Golf. I also visited the sacred place of Mata Kheer Bhawani at Tulmulla.
Your take on the recently passed Waqf Bill?
The Waqf bill has been passed by the Parliament of the country recently, and it is law now. The 2013 bill brought by the Congress had several drawbacks. In the recently passed Waqf bill, the NDA government, before tabling it in Parliament, received lakhs of suggestions for positive reforms. The passed bill is historic in many senses – Firstly, it ensures women’s participation in Waqf, which was missing. Secondly, it allows, in an impartial and legal way, donation of land or property to Waqf only by those who are at least following the path of Islam for 5 years. Thirdly, to address rampant chaos and confusion and in a great leap towards transparency, it ensures correct digitization of Waqf property and land records so that no property is wrongly claimed as Waqf, and Waqf also gets its actual property legalized in government records.
How do you view Uniform Civil Code?
Uniform Civil Code is an essential part of our great constitution. One can’t pick and choose. We can’t say we will just follow fundamental rights enshrined in the constitution and ignore all-important fundamental duties and directive principles. While our great constitution maintains the right to religion, Uniform Civil Code is also essential and needed to address many things.
How do you view the relationship between Omar Abdullah-led Government and the center?
The people of the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir and now the Union Territory voted in historic numbers. The NC led by Omar Abdullah got the mandate, and we respect that; the Lieutenant Governor is the representative of the Center in UT, and overall things are going smoothly. Omar Abdullah-led Government is also talking about positive things and development, and this is what Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji wants to see – a prosperous and peaceful Jammu and Kashmir.

Pet Craze in Kashmir, caution needed, Cover Story 21 April 2025

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Pet Craze in Kashmir , caution needed
News Kashmir Analysis
Pet craze is growing in entire country and Kashmir is no exception.
Over the past few years,
Pet food has emerged as one of the fastest growing segments in the Indian FMCG sector as more people have opted to keep pets in country to fight stress and boredom.
Related businesses such as grooming the pet , pet supplies and hospitality, too, witnessed a surge in growth during the period as millions of Indians brought in new pets.
Over the past few years , the  demand for pet foods and pets is seeing a sharp increase in Kashmir valley too.
The reality is during all these years the Kashmir also saw a steep increase in the number of pet owners over the past few years.
But this comes with caution too.
Between April 2023 and March 2024, the Anti Rabies Clinic (ARC) at SMHS Hospital documented 8,652 bite cases. These included 5,386 dog bite cases, 2,844 cat bite cases, 27 monkey bite cases, 95 cow bite cases, 14 bear bite cases, 12 wild boar bite cases, and 294 other bite cases involving leopards, jackals, eagles, and more.
With Doctors suggesting owing a pet to keep depression at bay many in Kashmir are buying pets.
According to a 2015 study by Medecins Sans Frontieres and the Srinagar-based Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), nearly one in five people in Kashmir show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. A 2016 study published by the institute and ActionAid estimated that 11% of the population had a mental health disorder, substantially higher than the national average of around 7%.
Many are stating that this growing pet craze is a positive development and should not be entirely discouraged .
Expert pulse opine  many health benefits of owning a pet. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels.  Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship. Most households in the United States have at least one pet.
Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets is linked to several health benefits.
But the need of current time amid this growing pet craze is that Before adopting a new pet, make sure that it is the right one for you and your family. Do some research beforehand about the specific needs of the animal. Ask yourself these questions before getting a pet:
How long will this animal live? What does the pet eat?
How much exercise does the pet need?
How large will it become?.
Do we have proper space and hygiene cautions to keep pet?
We are seeing now throughout the length and breadth of Kashmir growing craze for having pets and thus many outlets selling pets have been opened .
The need of the hour is to have pets but with proper research, especially the need to maintain proper hygiene and cleanness.

News Kashmir Creates History – Editor-in-Chief Farzana Mumtaz bags globally prestigious Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti award.

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News Kashmir Creates History – Editor-in-Chief Farzana Mumtaz bags globally prestigious Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti award.
By Rameez Makhdoomi
In a development worthy of pride and accolades, News Kashmir Editor-in-Chief Farzana Mumtaz has bagged the prestigious Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Samman. She became the 22nd recipient of this globally prestigious award and the first woman from Jammu and Kashmir to receive it.
The award was presented during the 3-day historic Women Leaders Conclave held in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, by Stree Shakti – The Parallel Force and She Leads.
Voices of sanity opine that for first time  Jammu and Kashmir witnessed such  a historical Conclave of women leadership and empowerment  .
The three day Stree Shakti Women Leaders Conclave 2025, held in Srinagar, Kashmir, from 6 April to 9 April marked a significant milestone in promoting gender equity, women leadership  and empowering women. Organized by Stree Shakti – The Parallel Force and She Leads, the three-day event brought together women leaders from diverse backgrounds, including academics, politics, civil society, and thought leaders from across the country.
Rekha Mody, Founder of Stree Shakti, welcomed inspiring women leaders, emphasizing that women empower each other through interactions and shared experiences. She expressed that women are empowered when they interact with and meet other empowered women. During the inaugural session, eminent author and Sahitya Academy Award winner Alka Sarogi discussed her novel “Gandhi and Sarla Devi,” highlighting the legendary role of Sarla Devi and the contributions of women in India’s freedom struggle.
On second day , at IIM Nowgam ,
The conclave featured diverse sessions on entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, women’s health, holistic well-being, sports, and gender equality, with over 100 women leaders sharing their expertise.
At royal Springs Golf course at inaugral filled with hope ,
Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson Managing Director of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, shared her iconic journey and her role as a leading figure in India’s hospitality sector. She praised Stree Shakti’s efforts in organizing this historic conclave in Kashmir and urged the women of Jammu and Kashmir to excel in every field. Eminent woman leader Khair Ull Nissa Sheikh anchored the program. Nuzhat Gull, Sports Secretary of JK, shared how the women of Jammu and Kashmir are achieving remarkable success in sports and provided perspective on the milestones accomplished by Jammu and Kashmir in the past five years.
The conclave’s comprehensive approach to addressing women’s issues was widely appreciated, with many participants expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to engage with thought leaders and change-makers. The event served as a catalyst for meaningful conversations, inspiring a new wave of women’s empowerment and leadership in the region.
During second day, Rekha Mody, the founder and Chairperson of Stree Shakti, opined that Kashmir has been an epicenter of positive power and spirituality, and they are not there just for women’s empowerment but to give a message of peace and prosperity to the entire world. She observed that already burning demands raised by Stree Shakti and She Leads, like free transport for women and reservation issues, have been addressed, and more recommendations would come up through this historic conclave.
The Stree Shakti 2025 Women’s Leaders Conclave witnessed enthralling vibrancy on its final day at prestigious SKICC Srinagar. Rekha Mody lit the welcome flame, and Former Chief Minister and NC patron Dr. Farooq Abdullah was the guest of honor. Eminent women leaders spoke on the occasion, with Aruna Oswal, an eminent social worker, observing, “Let us create a viksat Bharat for every woman of the country where she acts boldly and thinks freely.” Dr. Farooq Abdullah emphasized the need for women to work hard to rise and make use of reservation opportunities without being controlled by men. He also offered land to Stree Shakti to establish a Center for the holistic welfare of women.
This would be first such center of its kind in Jammu and Kashmir, offering hope to women of world.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah promised suitable land for Stree Shakti to establish women’s center in Jammu and Kashmir.
The conclave concluded with the presentation of awards, including the prestigious and historic  Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Award to prominent Journalist Farzana Mumtaz, Editor-in-Chief of Weekly News Kashmir, for her outstanding contributions to media and women’s leadership. The award is a recognition of her dedication to promoting women’s empowerment and leadership. The conclave’s legacy will continue to inspire women leaders and promote gender equity in the region.
Professor Kashinath a renowned global scholar of Sanskrit from Nepal was conferred the prestigious Vidushi Vidyotma award for his scholarly contributions.
Stree Shakti Women Leaders Conclave has crafted an unique history in the women leadership of not just region but entire country and world.

Historic Stree Shakti Women Leaders 2025 Conclave in Kashmir

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Historic Stree Shakti Women Leaders 2025 Conclave in Kashmir
The recent Stree Shakti Women Leaders Conclave 2025 in Srinagar marked a significant milestone in promoting gender equity, women’s leadership, and empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir. This historic event brought together women leaders from diverse backgrounds, including academics, politics, civil society, and thought leaders from across the country. The conclave featured diverse sessions on entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, women’s health, holistic well-being, sports, and gender equality, with over 100 women leaders sharing their expertise.
Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson Managing Director of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, praised Stree Shakti’s efforts in organizing this historic conclave and urged women in Jammu and Kashmir to excel in every field. The event served as a catalyst for meaningful conversations, inspiring a new wave of women’s empowerment and leadership in the region. Rekha Mody, Founder of Stree Shakti, emphasized that women empower each other through interactions and shared experiences.
The conclave’s comprehensive approach to addressing women’s issues was widely appreciated, with many participants expressing gratitude for the opportunity to engage with thought leaders and change-makers. The prestigious Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Award was presented to Farzana Mumtaz, Editor-in-Chief of Weekly News Kashmir, for her outstanding contributions to media and women’s leadership. This recognition is a testament to her dedication to promoting women’s empowerment and leadership.
The Stree Shakti Women Leaders Conclave has crafted a unique history in women’s leadership, not just in the region but also in the entire country and world. As Dr. Farooq Abdullah emphasized, women must work hard to rise and make use of reservation opportunities without being controlled by men. The establishment of a Center for the holistic welfare of women in Jammu and Kashmir will offer hope to women worldwide.
The conclave concluded with a sense of hope and optimism, as women leaders from Jammu and Kashmir and beyond looked forward to a brighter future. The legacHisy of this conclave will continue to inspire women leaders and promote gender equity in the region.

Dhanuka Agritech Hosts Landmark Scientific Horticulture Management Program in Kashmir

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Dhanuka Agritech Hosts Landmark Scientific Horticulture Management Program in Kashmir

Launch of Cutting-Edge Solutions to Empower Apple Growers

Srinagar, April 10, 2025 In a landmark initiative to revolutionize horticulture and apple farming in the Kashmir Valley, Dhanuka Agritech Limited, one of Indias leading agrochemical companies, hosted a high-impact program on Scientific Management of Apple in Srinagar. It was honoured by the presence of Dr. M.K. Verma, Director of Agriculture, ICAR-CITH chief guest
The event spearheaded by Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech Limited, and reflects the companys unwavering commitment to empowering Indian farmers through knowledge, cutting-edge technologies, and sustainable practices. It brings together leading scientists, policymakers, agribusiness leaders, and progressive farmers for a full-day immersion into the future of apple cultivationfocusing on sustainable, disease-resilient, and high-yield farming powered by scientific innovation and farmer-centric technologies.
As part of this initiative, Dhanuka Agritech unveiled a specially designed product portfolio for the comprehensive management of apple orchards. Tailored to the specific needs of apple growers, the Portfolio Launch for Apple Growers introduces innovative solutions to combat prevalent challenges such as Apple Scab, red mite infestations, and premature leaf fall.
At the event, a blockbuster product, MIYAKO, for the control of the spider mite was launched a revolutionary miticide from Nissan Chemicals, Japan. Other highlighted products were DELIGHT (Dodine 65% WP), and CURSOR (Flusilazole). This robust portfolio not only ensures effective pest and disease management but also enhances fruit quality and profitability, reflecting Dhanukas commitment to empowering farmers with world-class crop protection technologies and sustainable orchard solutions.
“Indias food security must go hand-in-hand with nutritional securityand horticulture, especially in regions like Kashmir, holds the key. With high-density apple plantations, our farmers can triple their productivity. At Dhanuka, weve always championed quality, innovation, and farmer-first solutionsfrom launching Omite in Kashmir to introducing greener, safer chemistries like DECIDE. Indian agriculture has a bright future, and our youth are its greatest asset. Its time we erase the word ‘poor’ from ‘poor farmer’ by ensuring rural prosperity through science, technology, and strong industry-academia partnerships. The four wheels of agriculturescientists, farmers, industry, and channel partnersmust move in unison to drive India forward.” Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech
“Kashmir has the ideal blend of talent, discipline, and climate to lead the way in apple cultivation. With high-density planting transforming traditional orchardsfrom 1216 feet spacing to just 34 feetwe can boost productivity from 11 to over 60 tons per hectare. Apple is truly a golden fruit with global demand, and making it export-oriented is the need of the hour. As intensification grows, so will pest challengeshence, the role of research, responsible pesticide use, and technology transfer becomes even more critical. At CITH, we remain committed to empowering farmers with the right knowledge and practices to ensure quality and sustainability.” Dr. M.K. Verma, Director, ICAR-CITH

“Apple is a vital cash crop for Jammu & Kashmir, and the shift towards high-density planting offers immense potential. However, climate change is altering pest dynamicsspider mite infestations are a clear example. We must emphasize integrated pest management with tools like pheromone traps for leaf miners and sticky traps for fruit borers, alongside modern methods like drone spraying. Most importantly, pesticide use should always be judicious and based on economic threshold levels, with utmost attention to safety during application.” Dr. Manzoor A. Parray, Head, Entomology, SKUAST-K
“We sincerely thank Dhanuka for its excellent products and the impactful extension services it continues to provide to apple orchardists in Kashmir. Their efforts in educating farmers about new and innovative technologies are truly commendable. I urge Dhanuka to keep up this good work and further strengthen its support to our growers in the years ahead.” Dr. Mohd. Yusuf Zarger, Director, Cooperative Society Kashmir & Director, NAUF Federation
“Dhanukas products like CURSOR and LUSTRE have proven to be game-changers in apple disease management. Based on my personal experience and results in the field, I confidently recommended them to orchard owners across the region. These solutions are truly making a difference in ensuring healthier crops and better yields.” Dr. Nisar Ahmed Khan, Plant Pathology Expert
Dhanuka is committed to the welfare of farmers across India. To strengthen agricultural extension and research, Dhanuka has signed MoUs with ICAR and 15 agricultural universities across the country. Reaching 14 crore farmers across 6.5 lakh villages is not possible for any single organization alone. Thats why Dhanuka believes in the power of public-private partnerships, a philosophy weve long embraced.
Under its MoU with ICAR, Dhanuka has actively conducted awareness campaigns to educate farmers about product authenticity, encouraging them to scan QR codes on product packaging to verify genuineness.
With over 150 participants from agricultural universities, ICAR institutions, retailers, and apple growers, the event stands as one of the largest public-private scientific collaborations for horticulture in Jammu & Kashmir. It marks a significant stride toward promoting sustainable, technology-driven, and farmer-centric agricultural practices, poised to transform the apple farming landscape of the region.

Journalist Farzana Mumtaz bags Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti award

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Journalist Farzana Mumtaz bags Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti award

In a significant development,
Farzana Mumtaz, Editor-in-Chief of Weekly News Kashmir, bagged the prestigious Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Award known also as Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Samman .

The award was given during the three day historical and first of its kind Women Conclave in Kashmir organised by Stree Shakti under leadership of Rekha Mody .

The Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Samman, instituted in 1998 by Stree Shakti, is an award by women, for women, and in memory of an extraordinary woman. It’s awarded to a woman who dared to dream and had the ability to translate her dream into reality.

Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Samman, instituted in 1998, had Alka Saraogi, an eminent author and Hindi writer, as the winner of the twenty-first award. Farzana Mumtaz became the 22nd recipient of the award and the first from Jammu and Kashmir to bag this prestigious award.

Farzana Mumtaz, in her acceptance speech, dedicated this award to all the women of the globe, especially those who are voiceless and have less say. As a matter of fact, Farzana Mumtaz’s more than two-decade career in journalism has shined in diverse paradigms of media and leadership.

Rekha Mody, Head of Stree Shakti, while presenting the prestigious Dayawati Saraswati Modi Stree Shakti award to Farzana Mumtaz, noted that this esteemed award has traveled from Kolkata to Delhi, Sri Lanka, and now Kashmir.

She commended Farzana Mumtaz for her outstanding contributions to media and women’s leadership, describing her as a true iron lady.

Alka Sarogi, noted author and previous award recipient, observed that Dayawati Modi was a fierce lady who lived life on her own terms and changed the world through her actions.

“It is the award dedicated to every downtrodden woman. The woman who cuts firewood in the forest or sells products to sustain her family. This award is dedicated to every woman,” opined Farzana Mumtaz.

The three-day Stree Shakti Women’s Leaders Conclave witnessed a dynamic vibrancy and a lot of world-changing ideas. Ace scholar and professor of Sanskrit, Professor Kashinath from Nepal, got the Vidushi Vidyotma Stree Samman.