World Red Cross day , 5 May ,2025 issue editorial

 World Red Cross Day:
Red Cross is an important institutional movement of the world.
World Red Cross Day, celebrated on May 8, honors the humanitarian efforts of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. This day recognizes the organization’s tireless work in alleviating human suffering, promoting dignity, and providing aid during crises. The Red Cross’s unwavering commitment to compassion, solidarity, and hope inspires individuals worldwide to make a positive difference.
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is one of the largest humanitarian networks globally, with a presence in nearly every country. In India, the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) has been a vital part of this network since its establishment in 1920. With over 1100 branches across the country, IRCS works tirelessly to protect human life and health, embodying the principles of humanity, impartiality, and neutrality.
The Red Cross’s work is crucial, especially during natural disasters and emergencies. In India, the organization has played a significant role in disaster relief, blood donation, and health services. On World Red Cross Day, we pay tribute to the organization’s dedication to humanitarianism and its selfless service to humanity.
The theme for World Red Cross Day beautifully captures the essence of selfless service that defines the Red Cross. It reminds us of the importance of kindness, compassion, and support for those affected by crises. As we celebrate this day, let us acknowledge the organization’s invaluable contributions to humanity and strive to build a better world where everyone has access to essential services and support.
By working together, we can make a difference and create a more humane world. The Red Cross’s message of compassion, solidarity, and hope inspires us to take action and be part of the solution. Let us honor the Red Cross’s legacy and continue to work towards a world where everyone can live with dignity and respect.

War Destroys Humanity, 12 May , 2025 issue

War destroys Humanity
War is biggest enemy of human values and humanity.
The Devastating Impact of War on Humanity are known.
War, a brutal and destructive phenomenon, has plagued humanity throughout history, leaving deep scars on individuals, communities, and nations. The consequences of war are far-reaching and multifaceted, affecting every aspect of human life.
The most immediate and devastating impact of war is the loss of human life. Innocent civilians, including women, children, and the elderly, are often caught in the crossfire, suffering unimaginable trauma and pain. The destruction of infrastructure, including homes, schools, and hospitals, further exacerbates human suffering, leaving survivors without access to basic necessities.
War also has a profound psychological impact on those who experience it. Soldiers and civilians alike are often left with lasting emotional scars, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The trauma can be passed down through generations, perpetuating cycles of violence and revenge.
Furthermore, war disrupts social and economic structures, leading to displacement, poverty, and food insecurity. Refugees are forced to flee their homes, seeking safety in foreign lands, often facing xenophobia and hostility. The economic costs of war are staggering, diverting resources away from essential public services and towards military spending.
The impact of war on humanity extends beyond the immediate conflict zone. Global instability and terrorism are often fueled by the consequences of war, creating a ripple effect that can be felt worldwide.
In conclusion, the impact of war on humanity is profound and far-reaching. It is our collective responsibility to promote peace, understanding, and diplomacy, working towards a world where conflicts are resolved through dialogue and cooperation. Only through concerted efforts can we hope to mitigate the devastating effects of war and build a more peaceful and harmonious world. By prioritizing human life and dignity, we can create a brighter future for all.

The Pollen Menace in Kashmir, cover story 19 May 2025

The Pollen Menace in Kashmir
By Rameez Makhdoomi
Kashmir has been grappling with the issue of pollen menace for decades, primarily due to the widespread presence of Russian Poplar trees.
It has causes great distress to the common masses.
During the spring and summer months, particularly in May and June, the peak pollen shedding season, residents and visitors alike can be seen wearing masks to protect themselves from the allergens.
This gives rise to throat allergies and other health problems due to pollen circulating in air.
It is worth mentioning here that Russian Poplar trees, while economically beneficial for their wood used in fruit boxes, have a darker side. Their pollen grains are highly allergic and detrimental to human health, exacerbating respiratory disorders like asthma. Despite the administration’s previous ban on planting these trees, a large number  of Russian Poplars continue to thrive in Kashmir, contributing to the pollen menace.
From time to time eminent activists and health experts have repeatedly highlighted the issue, emphasizing the need for concrete action. They suggest that the administration must take a stricter approach to enforcing the ban and preventing the large-scale sale of these plants.
 Some experts also point to the increasing cultivation of ‘Keekar trees’ (Robina Pseudoacacia) as a contributing factor to the growing pollen phenomenon.
In this regard, people of Kashmir are calling for effective measures to control the pollen menace, particularly in Srinagar and other areas. With pollen known as not a good thing the time to address this issue is now.
It is time to strengthen our ecology with guidance species of trees that will both be helpful in increasing the overall oxygen bank and also fighting the rising pollution especially the air pollution.

Post Pahalgam terror attack,  India resolute actions on terror

Post Pahalgam terror attack,  India resolute actions on terror
News Kashmir Analysis
The Pahalgam tourist massacre by terrorists of Pakistan was attack on both soul of India and humanity. India has acted swiftly through operation Sindoor to punish terrorists.
Scores of terrorists have been killed in operation Sindoor and Pakistan as a result has resorted to escalation.
Five terrorists tasked with important roles in the Pakistan-based terror groups, Jash-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, were killed in the initial phase of Operation Sindoor when Indian forces struck terror camps deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) in the early morning of May 7, said sources.
On Saturday May 10 , 2025 we knew important things.
Fighter jets of the India Air Force targeted Pakistan Air Force’s bases at Rafiqui, Murid and Chaklala early this morning to counter Pakistan’s reckless drone and missile attacks targeting civilian areas and military infrastructure in India’s western sector.
Foreign Secretary Misri characterised Pakistan’s campaign as “a tissue of lies,” accusing Islamabad of manufacturing falsehoods about damage to Indian critical infrastructure, including airbases and air defence systems. “Claims have been made about large sections of Indian critical infrastructure, power systems, cyber systems, etc, being attacked and destroyed. These are completely false,” Mr Misri said, adding that normalcy had been restored across most of the targeted facilities.
At government briefing, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said India’s precision attacks only targeted military targets. “Pakistan military targets at Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur and Chunian were engaged using air-launched precision weapons from our fighter aircraft. Radar sites at Pasrur and Sialkot aviation base were also targeted using precision munitions. While carrying out these responses, India ensured minimum collateral damage,” she said.
India chose targets carefully. The objective was to cripple Pakistan’s capability to launch aerial attacks using drones and fighter jets. The attack on these key air force centres has likely hit Pakistan’s air reconnaissance and long-range strike capabilities.
India admitted that 26 locations were targeted by Pakistani drones, missiles, loitering munitions, and airstrikes in the early hours of Saturday. Among the sites attacked were airbases in Udhampur, Pathankot, Bathinda, Bhuj, and Adampur. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi confirmed that Pakistani forces used high-speed missiles at approximately 1:40 AM to strike the Punjab airbase.
Despite confirming physical damage to military equipment and personnel injuries, Colonel Qureshi noted that India had managed to intercept many threats. “India neutralised many dangers,” she said, while showing visuals indicating functional status at several bases, including Sirsa and Suratgarh.
She further noted that the Pakistani Army had attempted to infiltrate Indian airspace at more than 26 locations overnight.
India is resolute in crushing terror and masses are happy.

Pahalgam terror attack bleeds Soul of India, cover 28 April, 2025

Pahalgam terror attack bleeds Soul of India
By Rameez Makhdoomi
The brutal Pahalgam terrorist attack on tourists has bled the soul of India. The nation is in deep mourning. Terrorists attacked a group of tourists in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam, in Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, leaving dozens dead and several more injured. It was the first major terror attack on civilians in Kashmir since the Centre ended J&K’s special status in 2019. As a matter of fact, the attack, the deadliest of its kind in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, specifically targeted male Hindu tourists. The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based, UN-designated terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack. The whole nation has erupted in anger and grief. The Central Government has taken a series of steps against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Water Treaty. Houses of two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, Adil Thokar and Asif Shaikh, involved in the Pahalgam attack, were destroyed in a blast on Thursday night in Anantnag and Awantipora, respectively.
Whole Kashmir is on streets protesting the gruesome act loudly .
The facts  of this gut-wrenching terror attack are enough to move every heart. In an emotional exclusive interview, Shital Kalathiya, the wife of Shailesh Kalathiya, who was killed in the recent Pahalgam terror attack, recounted the horror of witnessing her husband being shot dead by terrorists. Cradling him in her lap after he was hit, Shital was left begging for help that never came. She recalled that they had only been at Pahalgam’s popular “Mini Switzerland” spot for 10–15 minutes with their two children and other families when gunfire erupted. Initially confused, they asked a nearby shopkeeper who also claimed it was the first time he’d heard such sounds. Moments later, terrorists appeared and ordered the group to separate by religion — Hindus on one side, Muslims on the other. “All the Hindu men were shot on the spot within two to three minutes,” she said in an interview with Aaj Tak, India Today’s sister website.
In a related development, India has taken a series of strong measures following the Pahalgam terror attack, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, 1960, and closing the Integrated Check Post Attari with immediate effect. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) reviewed the overall security situation in its meeting at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence and directed all forces to maintain high vigil. Briefing the media in New Delhi, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that Pakistani nationals will not be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) visas. He further stated that any SVES visas issued in the past to Pakistani nationals are deemed cancelled. He said any Pakistani national currently in India under an SVES visa has 48 hours to leave India. The Foreign Secretary informed that the Defence/Military, Naval, and Air Advisors in the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared Persona Non Grata.
In the aftermath of the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, top global leaders reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to express their condolences and reaffirm their support for India in the fight against terrorism. Among those who called PM Modi were Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, King Abdullah II of Jordan, and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. The US State Department has also condemned the terror attack and called for bringing to justice those behind this heinous act. Undoubtedly, this terror act has left the entire country in mourning, and calls for revenge from terrorists and their backers grow loud.

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

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

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

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

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

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.