News Kashmir Magazine

Pahalgam terror attack hits hard Kashmir Economy

News Kashmir Analysis

Pahalgam terror attack has badly dented the Kashmir economy. Tourism sector is worst hit as the attack occurred at a time when the Kashmir tourism was at its peak.

Many other allied sectors have been badly hit. The airfares which used to be sky high at this time are at historic low . In recent years at this time the airfares would sky rocket.

Even the agricultural sector seems to be hit. Many strawberry farmers in Gaasu the Strawberry village of Kashmir opined that last year tourists visited their fields and gave good price to crop, but this time Pahalgam terror tragedy has fetched them low price.

The transport sector especially the cabs services run mostly by youth of Kashmir for tourism purposes is also badly hit.

Expert pulse is The Pahalgam terror attack has dealt a severe blow to Kashmir’s economy and tourism industry. The region’s tourism sector, valued at thousands of  crores and contributing 7-8% to Jammu and Kashmir’s GDP, has been significantly impacted. The attack, which occurred at the start of the peak tourist season, has led to widespread cancellations of hotel bookings and travel plans. Local businesses, including taxi services, hotels, and shops, are facing substantial losses. The incident has shaken visitor confidence, potentially affecting the region’s economic progress and livelihoods of around 2.5 lakh Kashmiris who depend on tourism.

It is painful to note that ground realities lay bare the fact tourism may not contribute a major share to Jammu and Kashmir’s GDP, the aftershocks of its shocking nlow are being felt across sectors, exposing the deep interdependence of the region’s economic spectrum.

Unemployment is already a chronic problem in Jammu and Kashmir with lacs of youth especially the highly qualified youth facing the perils of joblessness and this all round economic bleak outlook post Pahalgam terror tragedy has worsened the holistic job scenario in Kashmir valley .

From Hotels to Houseboats, Rickshaws to Restaurants,  Agriculture to Street vendors all sectors have been badly dented posy Pahalgam tragedy that has undoubtedly dented holistic picture.

Overall,  the hope on ground zero is that Kashmir will regain its lost glory and enemies of peace and prosperity would be crushed.

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

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.