News Kashmir Magazine

Preserving Water Resources: An issue of Utmost Importance

Water is the foundation of life, and preserving this precious resource is crucial for the survival of our planet. Kashmir is among regions with rich water resources but dwindling of them due to human greed is matter of great happening. This depleting water resources is a matter of global worry.With the global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the demand for water will continue to rise, exacerbating the already pressing issue of water scarcity. It is essential that we take immediate action to conserve and manage our water resources sustainably.

The importance of preserving water resources extends beyond mere survival; it has significant implications for the environment, economy, and human health. Water is a critical component of ecosystems, supporting biodiversity and regulating the climate. Moreover, water scarcity can lead to food shortages, economic instability, and increased risk of water-borne diseases. By conserving water, we can mitigate these risks and ensure a more sustainable future.

Effective water management strategies are vital to preserving our water resources. This includes implementing efficient irrigation systems, harvesting rainwater, and promoting water-saving practices in households and industries. Additionally, governments and organizations must invest in water infrastructure, protect watersheds, and enforce policies that prevent water pollution. By working together, we can reduce water waste, increase water productivity, and safeguard this precious resource for future generations.

Ultimately, preserving water resources requires a collective effort and a fundamental shift in our relationship with water. We must recognize the value of water, adopt sustainable practices, and prioritize its conservation. By doing so, we can ensure that this vital resource continues to support life, ecosystems, and economies for generations to come. The future of our planet depends on our ability to preserve and protect our water resources. We too in Kashmir should protect water resources.

Impressive remittances of India

At $129 billion, India’s remittances alone is nearly as much as the annual budgets of Pakistan ($67 billion) and Bangladesh ($68 billion) combined. It is also nearly double that of Mexico, which took the second spot on the highest remittances list.As per the latest figures compiled by World Bank economists, India, which topped the list of recipient countries for remittances in 2024, received an estimated inflow of $129 billion.

As a matter of fact, Remittances play a vital role in the economic development and stability of many countries, particularly in developing nations. These financial transfers from migrant workers to their families and communities back home provide a crucial source of income, supporting basic needs, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship. Remittances also contribute significantly to the GDP of recipient countries, helping to reduce poverty, inequality, and unemployment. Furthermore, remittances promote financial inclusion, empower women, and foster economic growth, making them a vital component of international development efforts.

 Mexico came second with $68 billion, China came third at $48 billion, the Philippines came fourth at $40 billion, and Pakistan came fifth at $33 billion.

India has steadily been receiving remittances of more than $100 billion each year for the last five years, except 2020 – when COVID-19 had peaked. That year India saw an inflow of $83 billion. The growth rate of remittances this year is estimated to be 5.8 per cent, compared to 1.2 per cent registered in 2023, according to a World Bank.

This is a great development for the country and should be taken as a very positive development.

World Computer Literacy Day

Computer Literacy: A Key to Unlocking Opportunities in the Digital Age has ushered nothing short of digital revolution in world and made it a global village in true sense.

In today’s technology-driven world, computer literacy is an essential skill that can open doors to numerous opportunities. To promote digital literacy, especially among underprivileged communities, NIIT, an Indian computer company, established World Computer Literacy Day in 2001. This day is observed annually on December 2.

The primary objective of World Computer Literacy Day is to “drive digital literacy in underserved communities worldwide.” This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by enhancing technological skills, particularly among children and women in India.

Computer literacy offers numerous benefits, including:

– *Employment opportunities*: In today’s digital workplace, computer proficiency is a prerequisite for most jobs. Acquiring computer skills can significantly enhance job prospects and career advancement.

– *Effective communication*:

Computer literacy enables individuals to communicate efficiently through email, social media, and other online platforms.

– *Access to information*: Computers provide access to a vast array of information, including news, educational resources, and more.

In Jammu and Kashmir, there is a need to further promote computer literacy among the masses. By doing so, we can empower individuals to participate fully in the digital economy and improve their overall quality of life.

World Computer Literacy Day serves as a reminder of the importance of digital literacy in today’s world. By promoting computer education and skills, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Forest cosmetics potential

Cosmetics is an important industry of globe and an important sector in our country.

As a matter of fact,

Jammu and Kashmir is jewel of country and having lush green forests which are home to diverse flora and fauna. The growing tendency of developing cosmetics from forest wealth can be a good news for forest communities in our region .

Globally, we know that  the demand for natural cosmetic and beauty products is good news for forest communities. Growth in natural cosmetics industries is at almost 10 per cent per year. This is providing forest communities with livelihood opportunities and also spurred interest in sustainability.

The expert pulse is if one  is  interested in natural cosmetic products, ones that support local communities and don’t deplete our natural resources, you aren’t alone! During the last decade or so the extent of natural ingredients used by the cosmetics industry has increased.

In  order to tap into this market to raise the income of rural, forest communities worldwide, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations and the Non-Timber Forest Products – Exchange Programme (NTFP-EP) network examined some of the different, forest-derived beauty products, which have been used since antiquity in traditional practices and trade in various Asian and Pacific countries.

Since there was no comprehensive publication on beauty products based on forest products, although scattered information does exist, FAO and the NTFP-EP also published Naturally Beautiful: Cosmetic and Beauty Products from Forests, to bring attention to the role forests play in supplying beauty products and show how these products can provide livelihood options for forest communities.

We hope same potential would be explored and tapped in Jammu and Kashmir.

World Kindness Day

Kindness is the most important feature that is keeping this planet alive. It is pivotal  because it can have many positive effects on mental health and well-being, and can make the world a happier place.

 Kindness has positive impacts on the all important

Mental health as

Kindness can improve mood, increase self-esteem, and decrease stress. It can also help with loneliness, and improve relationships.

 Kindness also improves

Physical health

Kindness can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and decrease the risk of illness.

All importantly,

 World Kindness Day is an international observance on 13 November. It was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, a coalition of nations’ kindness NGOs. It is observed in many countries, including Canada, Australia, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates. Singapore observed the day for the first time in 2009. Italy and India also observed the day. In the UK, it is fronted by David Jamilly, who co-founded Kindness Day UK with Louise Burfitt-Dons.

World Kindness Day is to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness for good which binds us. Kindness is a fundamental part of the human condition which bridges the divides of race, religion, politics, gender and location. Kindness Cards are also an ongoing activity which can either be passed on to recognize an act of kindness and or ask that an act of kindness be done. Approaches are being made to the United Nations by the peak global body, the World Kindness Movement, to have World Kindness Day officially recognized and its members unanimously sign a Declaration of Support for World Kindness.

We all need to take pledge on world kindness day 2024 to be more kind towards each other.

Epilepsy Day

In India, The day is observed on November 17 to raise awareness about epilepsy. It is a chronic disorder of the brain which is characterized by recurrent ‘seizures’ or ‘fits’.

Or we can say that Epilepsy is a chronic non-communicable disease of the brain that affects people of all ages. Around 50 million people across the world have epilepsy and so is one of the most common neurological diseases across the world.

In India, National Epilepsy Day is celebrated by the Epilepsy Foundation. On this day various seminars, debates, stage events, etc. are organized to educate people about epilepsy disease and its treatment methods. On this day, various hospitals also provide free treatment and organize consultation camps for such patients.

According to World Health Organization,  Epilepsy is a chronic noncommunicable disease of the brain that affects people of all ages.

Around 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological diseases globally.

Nearly 80% of people with epilepsy live in low- and middle-income countries.

It is estimated that up to 70% of people living with epilepsy could live seizure-free if properly diagnosed and treated.

The risk of premature death in people with epilepsy is up to three times higher than for the general population.

Now, Persistent prenatal distress is associated with a significantly increased risk for epilepsy in offspring, a new study showed.

Investigators emphasized that the risk was only slightly elevated, indicating that most infants born to mothers experiencing moderate stress will not develop epilepsy.

We need to take all measures and pledges to help the elipesy patients.n

Stray Dog Menace

Stray Dog menace is still a serious issue in Kashmir despite many solutions and measures proposed from time to time.

Stray or street dog menace is major problem for Jammu and Kashmir .

Stray or street  dogs, known in scientific literature as free-ranging urban dogs,are unconfined dogs that live in cities. They live virtually everywhere where cities exist and the local human population allows, especially in the developing world and the former USSR.

In our region we all are aware about the facets that Street dogs may be stray dogs, pets which have strayed from or are abandoned by their owners, or may be feral animals that have never been owned.Street dogs may be stray purebreds, true mixed-breed dogs, or unbred landraces such as the dog. Street dog overpopulation can cause problems for the societies in which they live, so campaigns to spay and neuter them are sometimes implemented. They tend to differ from rural free-ranging dogs in their skill sets, socialization, and ecological effects.

Stray Dog bites over the years have taken many a precious lives in Kashmir.

Stray dog bites are a big worry  causing deaths and injuries.

Stray dogs have bitten around 58,869 persons in the last decade in Kashmir, which works out to 16 such cases on an average per day.

Some years back it was known,

As per a report by the department of Community Medicines, Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, around 58,869 persons were bitten by the dogs in the last ten years (2011 to 2021) in Kashmir. The people in Kashmir are pressing authorities to do more about the issue as the dog attacks have seen a rise in recent months.

Srinagar district is among the worst hit districts by dog menace.

World Stroke Day

Strokes are a serious health challenge throughout the world.

The brain stroke is the second leading cause of death and third leading cause of disability and second leading cause of death. Every year, approximately 18 lakhs people suffer from stroke. It is noted that low and middle income countries, of which India is a part, have witnessed more than 100 percent increase in stroke whereas the developed countries have witnessed a drop of 42 percent.

As a matter of fact, every year World Stroke Day is observed on October 29th to emphasize the serious nature and high rates of stroke. The day is also observed to raise awareness of the prevention and treatments of strokes.

The theme for World Stroke Day 2024, “#GreaterThanStroke Active Challenge,” harnesses the inspiring impact of sports to drive awareness about stroke prevention and rehabilitation. Sport’s universal appeal crosses all geographic, cultural, and demographic lines, engaging people from all walks of life. By using sports as a powerful platform for awareness, this initiative aims to reach a wide and diverse audience, inspiring action and understanding around stroke.

average incidence rate of stroke in India is 145 per one lakh (1,00,000) population. According to researchers, three Indians suffer a stroke every minute.

Although the elderly age group are more commonly affected by brain stroke, it also can occur to anyone at any age. Understanding the risk factors and recognizing the symptoms may help in preventing a brain stroke.

We need to take all the measures to maintain a strong brain health so as to save ourselves from brain stroke.

World Mental Health Day

Mental health is of great importance. 10th October is world Mental Health Day.

overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.

The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.

The Official Theme of World Mental Health Day 2024 – ‘It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.

is essential for governments, employers, the organizations which represent workers and employers, and other stakeholders responsible for workers’ health and safety to work together to improve mental health at work. Action to address mental health at work should be done with the meaningful involvement of workers and their representatives, and persons with lived experience of mental health conditions. By investing efforts and resources in evidence-based approaches and interventions at work, we can that everyone has the opportunity to thrive at work and in life.

Poor mental health can lead to decreased performance, absence from work, and increased staff turnover. Depression and anxiety alone result in the loss of approximately 12 billion workdays each year.

Kashmir population also due to varied reasons has poor mental health which needs to be improved.

We need to bear in mind that

health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

Wool importance

Wool has always been an important sector for people. As a matter of fact, the Wool is a natural product which in its purity – and with correct and gentle treatment processes – is the highest-ranking sustainable fibre in the clothing industry for the environment, especially for its long lifespan. UV resistant. Wool absorbs UV rays and protects the skin.

In contrast to synthetics, wool can absorb moisture vapour, which means less sweat on your body. They even absorb and locks away the odours from sweat, which are then released during washing. Stain-resistant — wool fibres have a natural protective outer layer that prevents stains from being absorbed.

Jammu and Kashmir has great potential to be a quality producer of wool and if tapped in right direction wool industry can generate lot of employment in Jammu and Kashmir.

We have many bright facets in it.

J&K produces 7 million Kg of wool annually against the country’s production of 40 million Kg thereby accounting for 19% of the country’s production. Recently in a mega meeting on the subject It was said that the considerable wool production amalgamated with the installation of processing units would result in bolstering the economy of UT.

We need to understand  that the domestic production of wool in the country is not adequate and the industry is dependent on imports. The wool import to the nation stands at 77 million Kgs per year.

Government has also been giving many efforts to promote the wool industry of Kashmir.  People too need to understand its importance and promote the sector to fullest.