Advocate Sheikh Salman is a talented youth . He has widely shined in the field of sports especially boxing and swimming. He is a dynamic lawyer. On 5 August, 2023 on the eve of 4th anniversary of article 370 abrogation he joined Bhartiya Janta Party ( BJP) in presence of senior leadership.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir Magazine he talks to Editor in Chief Farzana Mumtaz.
How was your childhood like?
My childhood was quite excellent. I was highly active in sports especially sports like Swimming and boxing.
A bit more on your sporting Journey?
Yes I always took Key interest in Sports like Swimming and Boxing and brought laurels in the field.
What about your legal journey ?
After my schooling from Srinagar at Biscoe, I did my law from Kashmir University. I have experience of two years in law.
Your transition from law to politics?
Judiciary and politics are interconnected.
Well in legal field as lawyer you can at best provide legal aid ,and it is the politics wherein one can do big things for society and make positive changes as you are directly linked with administration.
Why BJP?
BJP is a voice of country that has made India global super power and charismatic leadership of Narendra Modi has ensured all round development of the country . Whatever Modi ji has promised he has delivered it.
Any reason of choosing 5 August for joining BJP?
5 August is red letter in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. The article 370 abrogation on this day in year 2019 broke back bone of corruption and nepotism.
The abrogation of article 370 has ensured all round development of Jammu and Kashmir. It has also broken back of violence , terror and Backwardness.
A bit about your joining programme ?
The joining programme has been quite awesome and memorable . Senior leadership including Honorable State Spokesperson Abhijeet Jasrotia , State General Secretary organization Ashok Kaul Ji and esteemed WAQF Chairman and MOS Darkhshan Andrabi welcomed me in the party fold with positive vibes .
What are your ambitions as politician now ?
My sole motive is to serve people of Jammu and Kashmir especially poor masses and resolve their basic issues.
I want to be recognized as a human who did something good for the society .
Drug addiction is big problem faced by youth of Jammu and Kashmir. Your take?
The Government is very tough against drug peddlers and houses of drug suppliers are being seized. Government is taking series of steps to tackle the Menace of drug addiction.
Any message for youth ?
Youth are powerful force of the society. We need to aware the youth about their rights and duties . I would also like to thank youth of Kashmir as more than 800 youth participated in my joining programme.
Don’t stop your children from achieving their goals: Nikita Bhaduri
Nikita Bhaduri is an interior designer and an aspiring Bikini Athlete . She is known for her dynamism and fitness icon.
A bit about your journey?
My name is Nikita Bhaduri. I first cried on 3rd June 1996 and the journey began.
Born and raised in Kolkata
Schooling from Ramakrishna Mission.
I have completed my graduation from Calcutta University.
I am an interior designer by profession.
My childhood was full of struggles. Coming from a well-to-do middle-class family, becoming an athlete was not easy.
After my marriage, my husband supported me a lot in exploring myself.
I have seen many ups and downs and poverty too but I never stopped to achieve my goals.
What about your journey as athlete?
As a bikini category athlete I was humiliated but I didn’t stop.
Because my goal is big. I dream of the Olympia stage.
If my luck is on my side I will try my best to achieve my goals no matter what.
Your role models?
My role models are my coach Mr. Pratik Ovhal and 2x Arnold Classic Bikini Champion Laurel.
Your hobbies?
I love painting, dancing and cooking.
Your vision?
As a woman I should say don’t judge a book by its cover. When you look at another person you have to change your mind.. bring some positivity. You can’t judge a human by his outer. In this social media lifestyle we have faced many humiliation. If you don’t like someone, stop chasing them.
Be brave, be fearless, take care of your health and don’t listen to the opinions of unwanted people.
For parents I would like to say don’t stop your children from achieving their goals because I have faced many things in my past life.. It’s really painful when your parents are always afraid to let go of your hands.
You will walk for your dreams, you will get hurt, you will break, you will understand and one day you will heal yourself.
Your future goal?
My future goal is to become a well-known bikini athlete in India who wants to be on the Olympia stage before 2029.
Zahur Akhoon 23, a brilliant medical student, MLS (Medical laboratory scientist) from the charming village of Baramulla, has become a well-known YouTuber by skillfully fusing his love of medicine with his talent for storytelling. Zahur has won the hearts of millions of people all over the world with his innovative approach to health education, bridging the divide between the medical community and the general public.
Zahur’s adventure started in the classrooms of Baramulla Government Medical College, where he distinguished himself for his outstanding academic achievements and intense curiosity about the world. He became aware of the shortcomings of conventional medical education’s capacity to reach the general public while he was still a student. Zahur made the decision to enter the world of vlogging because he was determined to break through barriers and share his ideas with a larger audience.
The teenage vlogger’s channel, suitably called “MediVlogs,” immediately became well-known thanks to Zahur’s aptitude for conveying complicated medical concepts in a clear and interesting way. He covers a variety of health-related topics in his films, covering everything from elementary first aid procedures to in-depth talks of diseases and their remedies.
In a special interview, with News Kashmir Magazine, Zahur expressed his appreciation for the help he has received and emphasised the significance of utilising contemporary platforms to close the communication gap between medical experts and the general population. He said, “In order to foster a healthier society, it’s critical to make medical knowledge accessible and interesting. Through MediVlogs, I hope to motivate others to take responsibility for their health and make wise decisions.
Zahur effortlessly connects with his viewers, developing a strong rapport based on trust and trustworthiness. His charm and passion are evident in every video. His information is understandable and applicable to people from all walks of life because to his kind disposition and extensive medical knowledge.
“I am positioned to leave a lasting mark on the medical community and encourage countless aspirant medical professionals to follow in his footsteps by leveraging technology as a tool to alter lives with his passion to promoting health education”, Zahur stated further.
Journalist Mir Sabeen Gulrez, through Zahur Akhoon-on-Record answered questions like this,
Sabeen :What made you want to become a Vlogger, despite the fact that you are a medical student?
Zahur :Just to show my life and skills to ppl and let them know if I can do it you can also
Sabeen:What research do you do when
writing a new video blog script?
Zahur: I go for viral content always and pick viral content and topics and usually I put thrill in my camping videos so that people can enjoy as people love thrilling content
Sabeen:What one event inspired you to do this ?
Zahur :- It was my passion actually and I took it seriously when one day one vlogger of kashmir which was very close to me asked for 8k rupees for an ad that hurt me and then I decided to create my own .
Sabeen:How would you ensure your video blogs connect with your viewers?
Zahur :- Usually the thrill and entertainment I give to them.
Sabeen: How do you deal with viewers who dislike your content?
Zahur:- I think every one have their own taste I don’t mind at all. I focus on my own things not people’s Opinion.
Sabeen:Which of your video blogs have the highest number of views, and why?
Zahur :- My highest no of views on one of my videos are 14Million.
Sabeen:What is one falsehood you have
said in one of your videos?
Zahur :- In 12 hrs survival Challenge in jungle about the attack in starting but then I cleared further.
Neetu Bali is a human of multiple talents. Neetu Bali is a qualified Lawyer turned Entrepreneur who has been in the warehousing business for the past more than two decades, and started her own jewellery brand Sunder Gems & Jewels on the concept of design and preservation of nature. In more than decade of its existence the brand is already working to preserve the Chinar Trees in Kashmir along with the art and exquisite craftsmen in this part of the world. Before becoming a philanthropist at a young age Neetu grew up adoring jewellery, art and design and her destiny led her to building a career in it. She inherited the passion and the loĺppve for jewels from her mother and grandmother whom she has always adored for their grace and elegance.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir, she talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
Tell us about your journey ?
I had done law ,and after spending sometime in legal world especially after death of father took serious interest in business. I have found two business avenues namely Sunder enterprises and Sunder Gems and Jewels. It has been a 23 year journey. My buisness is driven by passion not just to earn for myself but give something back to the society. I have taken a keen interest to promote and protect Kashmiri arts and craft through my buisness especially Jewellery which is my passion.
I have been the first women contractor of National fertilisers and CFA with Birla White Cements. Having an experience in the warehousing for two decades is strong forte of my buisness journey.
What motivates you to work on Chinar leaves?
Chinar tree is the soul of Kashmir. My Jewellery work be it on Gold or Diamond has Chinar at its theme values.
Due to less attention paid to Chinars and dwindling numbers I am trying to bring back Chinar to focus through my works.
What about your other art works since your focus is holistic?
My focus is on also papier machie, using it for packaging purposes of Jewellery. I am also involving artisans in my works on Shawls. All this is being done through my venture Sunder Gems and Jewellery.
About your recent recognitions?
I am the member of FICCI and also given recently award by Central Government as emerging entrepreneur and it was presented by Union Minister Narayan Rane. I have been also bestowed with Chinar e a Ishq epitaph for my love for Chinars.
Reason for you to include holistic range of crafts in your works?
The reason is that Kashmir is known throughout the world for its arts and crafts , especially the aesthetic sense of the artisans of Kashmir is great. We also live in era of digitalization and technology and things like digital prints and looms are threatening our arts and crafts like Shawls and Papier Mache. So in order to promote arts and crafts I am giving them platform through my art and Jewellery works.
Are you operating both online and offline ?
Yes we have a store of Sunder Gems and Jewellery at Jammu and in online world we have a website. I am soon planning a mega exhibition here in Srinagar to showcase my work.
You also work with prestigious Birla White , a bit on that?
I am associated with Warehousing related of Birla White with reference to Jammu and Kashmir. I am working with them since many years as CFA.
What are your future plans?
As far as future plans are concerned is to do a series of Exhibitions especially few in Kashmir.
Are you working for women empowerment?
Be it Jewellery sector or handicraft sector the women are the integral part of it . I am involving more women into my projects. A financially independent women is best for the growth of society. When these artists work with their heart they just need hand holding.
Your Fortes?
My Jewellery or any work is filled with purpose or themes like of saving Dal Lake to Saving Hangul have been my strong points. I love to do a lot for society by my philanthropy works .
Your message?
We are a very beautiful community living in paradise of earth. We as a nation have great aesthetic sense that is visible in hospitality or art sector . We should stay the warm hearted ever.
The annual observation of World Environment Day, which took place on June 5th, is a day intended to promote action for the preservation and conservation of the environment on our planet. The world gathered once more in 2023 to consider the health of our environment and talk about practical ideas to deal with the urgent issues we face.
World Environment Day 2023, with the theme “Taking Global Action for a Sustainable Future,” serves as an important reminder that the entire world community must work together to combat climate change, safeguard biodiversity, and work towards a greener and more sustainable future for all.
This year, World Environment Day focused on several key areas, including climate action, sustainable consumption and production, and the conservation of ecosystems. These areas are at the forefront of international discussions as we grapple with the consequences of human activity on the planet.
The impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly apparent, with rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and the loss of vital ecosystems. World Environment Day 2023 seeks to encourage individuals, communities, and governments worldwide to take decisive action in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and adopting sustainable practices in all aspects of life.
While talking to News Kashmir Magazine, the eminent expert Dr. Ayaz Mohmood Dar Founder & Director: Tehkeek International: An education and research Institute,Lecturer. Higher Education Department, Govt. of JK said that, “The reminder that the future of our world is in our hands comes in the form of World Environment Day 2023. Every person has a responsibility to protect the environment and create a sustainable future. We can guarantee a better, cleaner, and more durable planet for future generations by acting now”.
“Let’s take a moment to consider the great worth and beauty of our natural environment as we observe World Environment Day. Let’s work together to preserve and revitalise the environment while pursuing a peaceful coexistence of humans and nature. We can all benefit from our collective efforts to secure a sustainable future, he further stated.
Journalist Mir Sabeen Gulrez, through Dr Ayaz-on-Record answered questions like this,
Reporter :Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that an estimated 4.2 to 7 million people die from air pollution worldwide every year. What’s the solution now what steps should we take to prevent that?
Dr Ayaz : It requires collective efforts from governments, communities, industries, and individuals to mitigate air pollution and prevent the millions of deaths caused by it each year. There are many steps that can be taken for mitigation, including Enhancing vehicle emissions standards, improvement in industrial emissions control, shifting to clean energy sources, International cooperation, and more importantly Supporting research and innovation.
Reporter : Do you acknowledge that climate change is real and poses an immediate threat to the environment and our health and safety? What specific goals and measures do you support for reducing U.S. carbon missions?
Dr Ayaz : Climate change is real and directly threatens the environment, health, and safety. To reduce carbon emissions, many measures can be taken which should include Carbon pricing, Electrification of transportation, and climate diplomacy.
Reporter : Do your congressional efforts align with the current administration to undermine the science that supports climate change research? Will you encourage federal (or state) agencies to restore scientific data about climate change to their websites to help educate citizens?
Dr Ayaz : Many administrations including the United States, recognize the need to address climate change and support climate science research. However, the scientific data about climate change on government websites to educate citizens is an important aspect for understanding the climate mechanics. The scientific information is very crucial for informed decision-making and public engagement on climate-related issues. The federal agencies should provide comprehensive information which will contribute to a well-informed society a research.
Reporter : What are your plans to support the accelerating adoption of solar and wind technologies? For example, would you support increasing research and development funds to advance renewable technologies?
Dr Ayaz : These are strategies that can be considered to support the accelerated adoption of solar and wind technologies. However, general strategies to support the accelerating adoption of solar and wind technologies will include increased research and development (R&D) funds, Education and trainings, and infrastructure development.
Reporter : Would you support tax credits to help businesses and consumers cover the costs of transitioning to solar and wind? Would you strive to ensure that renewable technologies become the top priority of state/national energy policy?
Dr Ayaz : “Yes”
Reporter : ’Will you support continuation of EPA’s ENERGY STAR program, which encourages appliance manufacturers to improve the energy efficiency of their products while providing consumers with tools that help them make energy-efficient choices?
Dr Ayaz : The EPA’s ENERGY STAR program’s future is determined by the relevant authorities responsible for energy efficiency standards and environmental programs, as well as various factors such as government policies, budget allocations, and public support. I cannot say anything about the decision-making process regarding the program’s continuation.
Reporter : What are your specific plans, including actions and timetables, for helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a substantial amount, and how will you fund and implement them?
Dr Ayaz : Addressing climate change indeed necessitates a collaborative effort involving governments, businesses, communities, and individuals. The plans and actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions will vary across regions and countries due to their unique circumstances and available resources. Cooperation and coordination at local, national, and international levels are essential for effective implementation.
The specific plans, actions, timetables, funding, and implementation would depend on the policies and actions taken by governments, organization’s, and individuals. Further, funding for climate resilience is must which can come from a variety of sources, including government budgets, private investments, public-private partnerships, international climate funds, and carbon pricing mechanisms.
In the breathtaking city of Srinagar, Kashmir,Sofia Qazi and her Husband co-founded a restaurant namely “Café Tibet”.Being a co founder of a restaurant, Sofia is a talented cook, mother, and businesswoman, who opened Cafe Tibet with her husband. Many people are inspired by their endurance, innovation, and positive impact on the community.The Ambience of the restaurant is the main attraction where you can spend hours with your near one’s forgetting the world aside.
The desire to cook that Sofia has always had inspired her to seek a profession in the culinary arts. After finishing her education, Sofia got married and wanted to be a self dependent , she honed her abilities and discovered a passion for cooking inventive foods that are also delicious. She had always wanted to create her own restaurant, and with her husband’s help, she was able to do it.
While taking a sigh of relief Sophia said that, “
Looking back 2 years ago we were in the garment business and it was a struggle. The pandemic made it worse and the issues which led to a stressful year. As time passed we needed to bring change. And all we could think of was only the food industry and its importance thanks to the pandemic”.
” Realising our food culture was pretty much the talk of the town and how it was appreciated, it was exactly what we needed”, she further added.
With its emphasis on Tibetan food and cosy, welcoming ambiance, Cafe Tibet immediately became well-liked in Srinagar. Due to Sofia’s dedication to using only the freshest, highest-quality products and her creative culinary style, Cafe Tibet has become a popular restaurant in the area.
Sofia is committed to her community, but she goes more than that. She is dedicated to providing those in her community who have had trouble finding jobs with employment possibilities. Under her direction, Cafe Tibet has developed into a centre of employment, creating possibilities for numerous locals.
Due to Sofia and her husband’s dedication to diversity and inclusivity, the workplace they have established cherishes its staff members. They offer guidance and assistance, fostering a supportive and upbeat work atmosphere for their employees.
Further Talking to News Kashmir Magazine she further Added, “We decided to take this chance as an opportunity and being located in Lal chowk, just aside from the hotspot near the bund road. The setting was idle for a cafe and we made a go for it”.
Journalist Mir Sabeen Gulrez, through Sofia Qazi-on-Record answered questions like this,
Sabeen : where from you are?
Sofia:Our origin is from Tibet. And it’s been around 70+ years and counting since our ancestors took refuge in kashmir.
Sabeen : Does winter sesson hit business in Kashmir?
Sofia :We generally serve Tibetan and Chinese cuisine along with some Indian too.Our speciality would be in momo’s, thukpa’s, fried rice, shafales.
Sabeen: What are special things offered there at your restaurant
Sofia : Considering winter and summer season both are lovely as kashmir is a paradise in itself. And the weather here is a bliss.
Sabeen : What has been inspiration in your journey?
Sofia :Eversince and before we’d started our food business we have always been reluctant towards our previous business as it wasn’t very favourable.
The idea of continuing our native cuisine and keeping it alive was what we always considered a better option. Also we are pretty enthusiastic about our food reviews or our service, we strive to bring perfection in what we do and leave no margin for errors.
Sabeen : Your future Goals?
Sofia : We strive to deliver quality over quantity. And our portions are very much worth every rupee. And the locals here fancy tasty food. Hence our food soldiers are hardly concerned with the weather issues.
Kashmir known as the paradise mostly relies on tourism and during the peak season time in winter and summers, we get only a few outstation tourists.
Dr. Rashmi Singh, IAS, Commissioner State Taxes, J&K is an administrator of par excellence. In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir she talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
Tell us about your journey ?
My journey actually started in Bihar and at that time in Bihar not many girls were encouraged to pursue higher education. My parents were encouraging always and seeing my dedication towards education they took an unconventional choice of sending me outside Bihar for higher studies when I could study in one of India’s premier college for girls ie , Lady Sri Ram College Delhi .
In my school days . I had studied till 5 th in Delhi and then back in Bihar from 6th to 12 th class. Then I thought of Civil services which was seen as coveted service then as Government sector was first choice due to less developed private sector those days and the larger impression prevailing that through cracking IAS exam one could have best opportunities for public service
I have served in Bundelkhand Uttar Pradesh wherein my husband was posted. He is from Uttar Pradesh Cadre of IAS. But then he got posted somewhere else and I too had to join back in Delhi as my parent cadre has been UT.
I realise that You cant demand so called luxury of living with family all the time if both of you are in civil services. Before coming here in J and k I was posted in Delhi handling WCD and Social welfare and also served as Secretary Municipal council New Delhi, secretary in industry dept of Andaman and Nicobar besides also serving inGOI in ministry of WCD
How is experience of Kashmir different from other places ?
I have served mostly in Social sector with focus on Child development, women empowerment, and programs related with vulnerable sectors. Now coming here to Jammu and Kashmir first challenge was to understand the socio cultural economic milieu of the place . there has been lot of enigma about the place. I began to understand the local culture more and more especially about a place that is not understood much or even misunderstood. Having been in Social sector I was focusing more on spending for welfare and development of vulnerable section but here as Tax administrator I am dealing with augmenting revenue for the government through tax collection. I have tried to make taxation system more robust out here. I applied my social sector and convergence experience too even in this sector and talked to my officers how we can work more in integrated and united way. I found we can utilize same experience as in social sector in economic sector too as fundamentals of governance are same- that is bridging the gaps and connecting dots. It is not that everybody wants to evade taxes but information gaps and lack of synergy creates problems.
We have to also understand that Jammu and Kashmir are diverse regions with different set of local contexts even within the two divisions I have also been in Billawar, district Kathua as part of ‘back to village’ initiative of government as a prabhari officer. My focus here has been to facilitate better synergy at grassroots level governance and ensure wheels of development together move for betterment of that place and also catalyse action to ensure that government policy and programs are fully implemented on ground at a GP level
How did you manage to run canteen in Srinagar state tax department complex again?
A good question. The typical tender mode had not fetched any successful bids and our employees had to go outside for food . we roped in NRLM and it is their Women self group are running the canteen now as we reposed faith in them and also mentored the group.
How far has GST regime enhanced taxation in a place like Jammu and Kashmir?
The taxation system has been revolutionized to a large extent since GST got rolled out in J and K too making this tax reform truly one nation one tax. The kind of jump in terms of revenue through GDT has been very encouraging for our department. We had initially started with just around 2500 crore in 2017 and GST collection now is 7300 crore and initially in 2017 we had just 70000 tax payers now we have more than 1.30 lac tax payers. We have also seen 28 percent jump in tax compliance with 97 percent returns getting filed on time . the process being digital from registration to filling is both efficient and transparent even though it has involved lot of capacity enhancement of our team of officers and tax payers alike .
Are we are moving towards an era wherein we are viewing tax as word of respect than fear ?
Ÿes by promoting tax paying compliance behsviour we are encouraging people from those in buisness to consumers that they should take pride as they are contributing to development of the country by paying taxes honestly.
What is being to raise awareness about taxation system ?
See I am talking to you – this is also part of raising awareness . Through our different circles we are reaching out to all important stakeholders like trade associations, bar associations, buisness chambers, CAs and other important bodies rasing awareness about GST taxation compliance. We are also providing helping hand wherever people feel difficulty in filling of returns or face any other issue. We are also using social media to promote awareness. The days of tax evasion are coming to an end steadily.
What is your message ?
My message is that people should become partners in taxation process. We want more tax ambassadors, be it student or traders. We need more tax champions . People are partners in developmental process.
My favourite Genre is Romantic: Dr Prasana Kumar Dalai
A poet of global calibre, Dr. Prasana Kumar Dalai M.A, Ph.D. and D.Lit in English is a poet of global caliber. He also teaches English in Odhisa, in an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir , Dr. Prasana Kumar Dalai talks to Rameez Makhdoomi.
Tell us about your favourite authors ?
My favourite Authors
John Keats,W B Yeats and John Donne.
A bit about yourself?
My name is Dr Prasana Kumar Dalai born in 07.06.1973 in a small typical village Nandiagada under Kabisurjyanagar block Ganjam district Odisha.I belong to a middle class farmer family my early days was not so romantic in a very difficult situation i have done my schooling and college from Kabisurjyanagar,M A English and PhD from Berahmur University.only blessings of God ,my parents and my teachers i am trying to achieve my goal
Your professional engagements?
I am working as an English lecture in Kabisurjya Baladev vigyan Mahavidyalaya, Kabisurjyanagar Ganjam.
Your authored poems?
My authorised poems are secret of torment.
Farewell forever,Till the Dusk and many more.
Your genre?
My genre is Romantic.
I used to write with poetical images pretty small having full packed meanings.
Tell something about your honours and all.?
Last year was golden era of my life though I have so many International honours like jaidev Puraskar ,Mother Teresa ,Nelson Mandela etc But last year Rabindranath Tagore and Gujarat sahitya Academy award one of precious for me.
BJP believes in politics of we: Ghulam Ali Khatana, Rajya Sabha MP
Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Ghulam Ali Khatana, is an prominent politician of Bhartiya Janta Party BJP in Jammu and Kashmir, in an exclusive interview with News Kashmir he talks to Editor in chief Farzana Mumtaz.
Would you able to serve your purpose in Rajya Sabha ?
Rajya Sabha is among the top most institutions of the country. The Constitution empowers the Parliament of India to make laws on the matters reserved for states. However, this can only be done if the Rajya Sabha first passes a resolution by a two-third majority granting such a power to the union parliament.
It has been endeavor since becoming Rajya Sabha member to see to diverse issues of masses of Jammu and Kashmir get solutions and visionary schemes of Government lead by esteemed and popular Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji are implemented on ground. It is the vision of present Government that progress touches every citizen of the country. Be it awareness about forest rights act or seeing progress in all sectors of life here in Jammu and Kashmir, my Rajya Sabha membership would give boost to all these and serve its purpose.
What lead to your journey in the Bhartiya Janta Party?
Before joining the BJP, I use to think in my days as student how Congress at the time of Independence lead by Jawahirlal Nehru deliberately kept the other side of Jammu and Kashmir under illegal occupation of Pakistan, to keep the boil of divisions and conflict alive. Plus there was not just discrimination between Jammu and Kashmir but different communities within Jammu and Kashmir barring a minor elite class and they suffered equally due to dynasty politics, nepotism and corruption. Youth were engaged in futile and meaningless daily wage system by dynasty parties like Congress, National Conference and PDP thus wasting their primes ,plus there faulty vision harmed Jammu and Kashmir.
So you felt BJP is answer?
Bhartiya Janta Party is Party which believes first in nation then in Party and at last in self, while as Congress believes in self first ,Party second and nation at last. BJP introduced politics of “we” rather than “I” and has lead an era free from nepotism and elite culture. Sometimes the level of simplicity, equality and respect of all I see in my Party BJP I feel they have copied all the teachings of Islam. BJP has been an agent of positive change for the country ,while as Congress lead polity was full of nepotism and dynasty.
Would you be able to make BJP a majority Party in Jammu and Kashmir?
Yes we do work as team and would make BJP the majority Party here as it is popularity is growing in entire Jammu and Kashmir. In this era of social media when thoughts and developments reach from one part of globe to other in matter of minutes ,gone are those days when parties like Congress would be able to play politics of vested interests and selfish nature.
What demands you mostly see common masses coming up with?
I was in Bandipora district for a public rally , the people there came up with large number of issues related to basic amenities like Road, health and including an area in tourism , providing clean water and upgrading sports infrastructure. After listening to these so many issues I made pledge to get all these issues solved during my tenure. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a pledge to work for betterment of neglected sections Ike Gujjars ,Paharis and Shias in year 2013 and once in power he has fulfilled his promises.
I always urge and request Government officers to shun the elitist mentality and connect with people on grassroots and solve their issues. The attitude shown by some Government officers of always in meeting and neglecting hearing to the issues of common people should be shunned. Common masses are boss in democracy.
Khushi Pallavi Gillani Is a brilliant child who since very tender age has dedicated herself to welfare of animals especially saving street dogs.
In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir, She talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
Tell us a bit about yourself ?
I am student of class 11th of International School Kodaikanal Tamil Nadu, India .
How did you develop passion for working for cause of street animals?
I have lot of love for animals since very tender age especially from class first. I was moved by the pain and agony felt by animals especially the likes of street Dogs in our part of world, so thought that one can’t be just a mere animal lover but have to do practically somethings for them. One episode moved me especially when at age of 13 I saw video of animal cruelty on Instagram, and wrote article on animal abuse.
Tell us about your baked items initiative for street animals?
I saw street dogs in Kashmir living under miserable conditions so made some baked items which I put for sale, to help street dogs in Kashmir. It got good response and from the funds generated I donated 70 percent to heath centers looking after street animals, 20 percent to NGO working for street Dog welfare, and ten percent I bought Dog feed and distributed at different places of Kashmir.
What are your future plans for animal protection?
When I will come for summer vacation next time I would do fund raising to cover good number of street Dogs maybe by selling baked items or some other idea to cover more animals. I want to do big things for street animals especially dogs in Kashmir in future times.
Are your parents supporting you?
Yes, my parents are supporting like me anything. They are themselves animal lovers and we have a dog at home. They support my every noble idea and initiative.
How is love towards street animals in Kodaikanal?
We are not allowed to roam here much beyond school, but whatever I am seeing here street dogs are less but treated well. Although there are many in Kashmir who feel pain of street animals and work for their welfare. In future in Kashmir too the condition of street animals would improve.
The death of puppies and dogs due to cold in Kashmir is although a very painful reality.
Often street Dog bites cause Human -Dog conflict in Kashmir. Your take on it ?
Yes we often hear Dog bites which is a painful phenomenon. We can adopt multi pronged strategy for same. More shelter homes for street dogs, increase in sterilization process, feeding street dogs often as hunger and starvation creates problems for any form of life .
What is your message to people?
My message to people is don’t kill animals nor hurt them . Be kind to them.Try best to work for their welfare and do efforts for promoting the conditions that keep especially street animals safe.
