News Kashmir Magazine

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

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

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.

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.

The Power of Financial Literacy

News Kashmir Analysis

Financial literacy is very much needed for the growth of any country especially in this day and age.

The expert pulse is Financial literacy empowers individuals and households to manage their money effectively, plan for their future, and make informed and responsible financial decisions that lead to financial well-being and makes them aware of their rights as consumers of financial products and services.

As a matter of fact, Financial literacy is the foundation upon which individuals, families, and societies build their economic stability and prosperity. It encompasses the knowledge, skills, and habits necessary to manage financial resources effectively, make informed decisions, and achieve long-term financial goals. In India, where a significant portion of the population lacks access to formal financial services, promoting financial literacy is crucial for inclusive economic growth and development.

We also need to do much about our financial literacy .

A recent survey by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revealed that only 27% of Indian adults possess basic financial knowledge, while a staggering 73% lack even a rudimentary understanding of financial concepts. This financial illiteracy has far-reaching consequences, including reckless spending, inadequate saving, and a heightened vulnerability to financial scams and exploitation.

It is heartning to note that Real-Life Examples of Financial Literacy in Action are found in our country .

In the many villages of our great country , a series of pioneering initiatives have empowered local women to take control of their finances through education and training. By learning basic accounting, budgeting, and investment skills, these women have transformed their lives, increased their incomes, and improved their families’ well-being.

Similarly, in the urban metropolis of our country ,  financial literacy programs have helped thousands of low-income workers develop healthy financial habits, such as saving for emergencies, investing in pension plans, and avoiding predatory lending practices.

Expert pulse is that The Way Forward: Promoting Financial Literacy Across India is much needed.

To address the pressing issue of financial illiteracy, the Indian government, financial institutions, and civil society organizations must collaborate to launch more large-scale financial literacy initiatives. These programs should focus on developing user-friendly educational materials, providing interactive training sessions, and leveraging digital platforms to reach remote and underserved populations.

Many programmes for promoting financial literacy are being launched in recent times which is very heartning .

By prioritizing financial literacy, India can unlock the full potential of its citizens, foster a culture of financial responsibility, and build a more inclusive, stable, and prosperous economy for generations to come.

Costly School Books

News Kashmir Analysis

School books play a vital role in a student’s educational journey. They serve as a primary source of knowledge, introducing students to new concepts, ideas, and perspectives. School books help develop critical thinking, language, and problem-solving skills, while also fostering a love for reading and learning. They provide a structured and comprehensive learning experience, laying the foundation for future academic success.

The private education sector in Kashmir has witnessed significant growth over the past few decades, primarily due to the subpar performance of government schools in Jammu and Kashmir. School books and uniforms are essential components of private schools globally, including Kashmir. Books play a vital role in introducing students to new ideas, improving their language skills, and enhancing their memory and intelligence. Uniforms foster school spirit, unity, and pride among students.

However, in Kashmir, the exorbitant cost of school books and uniforms has become a pressing concern.

Some weeks back, Complaints are pouring in from various places against different private schools for resorting to “illegal profiteering” as the private schools affiliated with J&K Board of School Education (BOSE) are forcing the parents to purchase additional textbooks from specific bookshops.Besides this, some of the CBSE-affiliated private schools are prescribing textbooks from private publishers sold at exorbitant rates.

Parents and students have often alleged that schools are compelling them to purchase these items from specific vendors, particularly in prominent schools. This issue is reminiscent of a similar problem addressed by the Delhi government, which warned private schools against forcing parents to buy costly educational materials and uniforms from specific vendors.

For years, parents in Kashmir have felt helpless, being forced to buy books, uniforms, shoes, and stationery from schools or designated vendors. The frequent change in textbook patterns every two years further exacerbates the issue, with schools altering half or the entire set of books to compel parents to purchase new ones.

It is imperative that school books and uniforms be made available at affordable prices, as they are crucial for a student’s education. Stakeholders must collaborate to find a solution to this pressing issue.

The Need of Minimalism

News Kashmir Analysis

The excess materialism has hurt the humanity at large.  We too in Kashmir have been badly dented by growing scourge of materialism and growing greed.

In an era marked by rampant consumerism and social media-driven materialism, a growing number of individuals are embracing a counter-cultural movement: minimalism. This lifestyle shift prioritizes simplicity, sustainability, and experiences over accumulation and excess.

We too in a place like Kashmir should adopt the minimalism approach.

At its core, minimalism is about redefining what truly adds value to our lives. It’s about recognizing that happiness and fulfillment aren’t directly correlated with the number of possessions we own or the size of our homes. By paring down our belongings and focusing on what truly matters, minimalists are discovering a sense of freedom and clarity that’s hard to find in our cluttered, fast-paced world.

The minimalist movement is also driven by concerns about the environment and social justice. As we become increasingly aware of the devastating impact of fast fashion, single-use plastics, and wasteful consumption, minimalism offers a compelling alternative. By choosing to buy less, buy second-hand, and support sustainable brands, minimalists are helping to reduce waste and promote more equitable systems of production and consumption.

Of course, minimalism isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a highly personal and contextual choice that requires careful consideration and intention. For some, minimalism might mean living in a tiny house or embracing a capsule wardrobe. For others, it might simply involve adopting a more mindful approach to consumption or prioritizing experiences over material possessions.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the minimalist movement offers a powerful reminder that simplicity, sustainability, and intentionality are within our reach. By embracing the principles of minimalism, we can create a more just, equitable, and fulfilling world – one that values people and the planet over profit and excess.

The excess love for materialism in the name of so called worldly competition has hurt the mental peace, so need is to adopt minimalist approach.

Mobile Addiction

News Kashmir Analysis

Mobile addiction is badly impacting our children, youth and elder generation. The long hours of Mobile addiction is hitting our health hard . In Kashmir too Mobile addiction has become a evil.

Recently,  in a big development, The Amar Singh Club in Srinagar organised an interactive session titled “Common Interest Conversations” to address the growing issue of smartphone and internet addiction, particularly among children and adolescents. The event brought together notable experts and professionals, including Prof S A Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology, and eminent advocate Zaffer A Shah, who presided over the session.

As a matter of fact, Mobile addiction has become a pervasive issue in today’s society, with millions of people around the world struggling with the negative consequences of excessive mobile phone use. The dangerous impacts of mobile addiction are multifaceted, affecting not only individuals but also families, communities, and society as a whole.

One of the most significant hard impacts of mobile addiction is its impact on mental health. Excessive mobile phone use has been linked to increased symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. The constant stream of notifications, social media updates, and emails can create a sense of perpetual alertness, making it difficult for individuals to relax and disconnect.

Mobile addiction also has serious physical health consequences. Prolonged mobile phone use can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, the constant use of mobile phones can result in poor posture, eye strain, and headaches. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified mobile phone addiction as a mental health disorder, recognizing its potential to cause significant harm to individuals and society.

Another significant impact of mobile addiction is its effect on relationships and social skills. Excessive mobile phone use can lead to social isolation, decreased face-to-face interaction, and reduced empathy. Individuals who are addicted to their mobile phones may find it challenging to engage in meaningful conversations, maintain eye contact, and develop deep, meaningful relationships. Furthermore, mobile addiction can also lead to decreased attention span, making it difficult for individuals to focus on tasks, learn new information, and engage in creative activities.

Mobile addiction also has significant economic and societal implications. Excessive mobile phone use can lead to decreased productivity, reduced work performance, and increased absenteeism. Furthermore, mobile addiction can also contribute to increased healthcare costs, as individuals may require treatment for related mental and physical health issues. Additionally, mobile addiction can also perpetuate social inequalities, as those who are addicted to their mobile phones may have reduced access to education, employment, and other opportunities.

Expert analysis is the dangerous impacts of mobile addiction are far-reaching and multifaceted. From mental health issues and physical health consequences to relationship problems and societal implications, mobile addiction has the potential to cause significant harm to individuals and society.

We need to shun mobile addiction.