News Kashmir Magazine

I would refurbish the face of
entire Bandipora Assembly
Constituency once elected: Sameer Iqbal Bhat

Hailing from Bandipora area of North
Kashmir, Sameer Iqbal Bhat is a young businessman and is known for his social
and political activities in Bandipora Constituency. Bhat was born in 1977 in Kaloosa area of Bandipora District district and is an emerging and young Politician, Bhat Started his Political Journey in the year 2015 with National Conference. Bhat is a businessman by profession. Being from a non business family, he took a challenge to start a small business in sale & service of computers. He was associated with intex technology as a distributor for Kashmir and later was associated with other other Multinational companies like samsung, HCL, Toshiba, Sahara and was Awarded by Europe and USA in the year 2008 and 2015 respectively. In the year 2009, Bhat started business with havelet Packard india Pvt Ltd as a volume core partner for printer division and started a retail out of HP. During business days, he was very much interested in social activities.

In a exclusive interview with News Kashmir Magazine, Bhat Talks with our correspondent Nasir Khuehami about the present Political Scenario of Kashmir, Development issues of his Constituency and various Issues. Here are the Excerpts of Interview.

Q1. Can you introduce yourself, your earlier life and your journey to NC?

Ans: I am a resident of Kaloosa Bandipora. I came from a humble background. I am businessman by profession. Being from a non business family, I took a challenge to start a small business in sale & service of computers. I was associated with intex technology as a distributor for Kashmir and later i was associated with other other Multinational companies like samsung, HCL, Toshiba, Sahara. In the year 2009, I started business with have let Packard india Pvt Ltd as a volume core partner for printer division and started a retail out of HP. During business days, I was very much interested in social activities. During my early life I was very inspired by some persons and I intended to be a Public Servant. During my business, I realized that there is more than one way to contribute to the society. I became particularly interested in Political Activism and in the year 2015 I made my mind to join National Conference. NC is the party which is peoples’ friendly and its agenda is for the public welfare. Ever since I started my political career my first aim has been to serve my people, to work for them. Moreover I wanted to choose a party where I could serve my people.

Q2. What is your viewpoint about PDP?
They Often Blamed that Omar Abdullah Led NC hanged Afzal Guru, Killed many civilians during 2010 Uprising, Your take?

Ans: See, a party cannot befool people with fake promises. PDP has blood on their hands, and has failed miserably and couldn’t do anything for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. PDP sold their Self rule, Azadi, for the sake of chair. People are intelligent enough now and have power to elect who they feel is the fittest.

Q3. Do you think Previous dispensation has failed totally on Moral Grounds?

Ans: We saw nothing on ground level during their tenure. PDP was extending every possible support to the BJP in eroding special Status of State. This Party sold whole kashmir for being in power. During 2104, PDP demanded votes to keep BJP at bay, but later on they joined hands with the same Party. Previous Dispensation totally failed, when it comes to Ground Level. Previous PDP- BJP alliance was totally unholy and were responsible for the agony and anguish among the people. People will never forgive both the parties for betrayal and damages caused to peace and development in the State. The Previous insensitive coalition government has pushed people to the wall, as unemployment has increased, prices have risen and developmental activities have suffered a huge dent. People in all the three regions have realized that the vote to PDP BJP in 2014 elections has brought death and destruction only, as a result they were feeling dejected over the way they are being treated. PDP & BJP have failed people on every count, as no development has taken place.

Q4, Please tell us about Bandipora Constituency?

Ans: Bandipora is an interesting place and is known for three things, Alim (knowledge), Adab (good Habit) Aab (Fresh Water). The Bandipora constituency is one of the most beautiful areas in North Kashmir. This constituency is predominantly rural and its residents are facing multiple problems including broken roads, the dearth of potable water and inadequate health and education facilities. People have been facing immense hardships especially those living in forest areas due to the non-availability of basic amenities in the vicinity. Bandipora has been ignored by all the previous regimes and has become politically orphan since 90’s. People in far place especially have been made to suffer on every count, even they had been denied the basic facilities they deserved. Our successive representatives have pushing the Bandipora into an abyss of darkness, even being the headquarter of District. The healthcare facilities are non-existent in the Constituency. The roads are in a shambles and the public education system is in utter disarray.

Q5. NC, oldest party of the state, being in power for most of the time is accused of eroding the special status of the state. How far is it correct?

Ans: This accusation is totally Baseless and Concocted. It is because of the untiring efforts of Sheikh Sahib and his colleagues that Article 370 was incorporated in the Constitution of India.
It will, therefore, be appropriate to say that National Conference is the architect of Article 370. No one Can remove Article 35-A and Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir. This is the state’s heritage, its legacy. Don’t forget that J&K acceded to India on certain terms and conditions as represented by Articles 35A and 370.

Q6. Do you think Previous Government has miserably failed to mitigate the sufferings of tribal Community and instead using them for Petty vote bank politics?

Ans: Yes, there is no doubt that PDP Govt has miserably failed to mitigate the sufferings of tribal Community and instead using them for Petty Vote Bank Politics. The systematic neglect which the Gujjars faced over the past years was due to the exploitative politics of PDP which has pushed the community to the wall. This Party has always used Gujjars, Bakerwals, Pahari’s as its vote bank and audience for its public meetings and did nothing concrete in return for their social and educational uplift. National Conference is committed to work for their welfare. Gujjars are an important section of the society but, unfortunately, the benefits of development have not reached them, as the previous dispensation has never allowed it to happen.

Q7: What is your agenda on developing
Bandipora as it is currently one of the least developed areas of State?

Ans: Yes it is harsh reality that successive governments have ignored Bandipora and its elected representatives have failed to take
up its case in a desired manner.
Bandipora Constituency has been ignored by all the previous regimes and has become politically orphan since 90’s. I would refurbish the face of entire Bandipora Assembly Constituency once elected. Granting eco tourism status to different areas of Bandipora is my top concern so that meaningful avenues of employment are generated for youth. Ensuring basic amenities like uninterrupted power supply and water supply is my top concern.

Q8. What is your own Role in NC?

Ans: I wanted to work for the party and i have been opportunity to serve the party as Youth Joint Secretary. I am Satisfied with the assignment, i have been given in the Party.

Q9. Is NC facing internal bickering in Bandipora Constituency?

Ans: No. Who says so! Is there any evidence? If there is a bickering, it is somewhere else and not in our party. We have a collective leadership. We have many other leaders; Have anybody from them said anything about any bickering in the party in Bandipora.

Q10. Will there pre-poll alliance or a post-poll alliance with Congress Party!

Ans: I don’t know what the decision will be. It is for the working committee to decide. Whatever the party high command decides, we as soldiers of the party will follow. So far I am concerned; we are here to strengthen the party in all areas of the Bandipora as true soldiers of the party. The call on alliance lies with top leadership Farooq Abdullah sahib and Omar Abdullah sahib .

Q11. Apart from Roads and other developmental issues, what are your top priorities?

Ans: As you know, Wullar lake is located in Bandipora and it is not just the pride of Bandipora, but of entire kashmir as it is one of the largest fresh water lake in asia. Since many decades the Lake is dying due to official Negligence, encroachment and weeds, it needs sustained conservation efforts to make the Wullar project successful and achieve its objectives. I am trying hard to save wullar lake and its beauty in every manner and help it regaining lost Glory. Granting eco tourism status to different
areas of Bandipora is my top concern so
that meaningful avenues of employment are generated for youth.

Overall Situation Improving in Kashmir : DGP Dilbag Singh

Director General of Police Jammu and Kashmir Dilbag Singh IPS took over as the DGP of J&K Police last year, he is known for his dynamism and great calibre.
In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir, Dilbag Singh talks to editor in chief Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.

During the current years there looks to be much difficulty, restrictions never seen before being faced by people due to Amarnath Yatra security. What are the reasons?

The restrictions are not that much stringent as portrayed, my view is you take your vehicle on highway to tunnel and you won’t find huge difficulty. I have in recent times undertook four journeys on highway and when local traffic and convoy plys almost normally and just for few moments traffic stops. It is just to ensure smooth movement of Yatra so that it’s cycle does not get disturbed.There are several laterals attached to it — Just to ensure safe travel as you saw this year the patch from Qazigund to Nashri due to tough weather saw highway adversely impacted and even before yatra the convoy and public traffic was one sided, even few days back a Yatri was injured due to shooting stones.

Even before Amarnath Yatra the traffic due to risky road situation on national highway used to be one way, we cannot allow two way which can cause traffic accidents and human loss.

The movement of army convoy is also not undertook during yatri movement as people complain about jams due to it. The public local traffic moves in a smooth manner and it is only the jammu srinagar traffic that faces a bit restrictions.
These things should not be seen as something restrictions but seen as a way to ensure smooth traffic regulation that ensures smooth and safe journey for all.
After the recent few deaths due to drug addiction among Youth, the masses are lauding police action against drug mafia, will this tempo continue?
Actually this tempo has weakened due to many commitments but soon it will be augmented . The drug de addiction center of Police Department coming up in Downtown Srinagar will be one of the biggest in Kashmir and it will cure many addicts of this menace .
Over the two years we have seen tremendous legal action against sources of drug addiction and this action has been unprecedented.
Drug abuse has caused havoc in Kashmir and I feel all the sane social, religious organizations and NGOs have a role to play and many are coming forward which is very good sign .
We will take every action to root out drug addiction.
Your take on tense situation in South Kashmir and youth picking up arms there?
We have been able to bring some sort of stability in the situation in Kashmir in these times of bloodshed .We have been able to curtail violence levels to great extent and it is a welcome sign .
This year we have tremendous reduction in number of youth picking up gun, huge reduction in stone pelting and strikes. The civilian deaths due to law and order have reached negligible levels. All this improvement has been made possible by relentless efforts of security forces and effective positive cooperation by common people and Youth .
We have been able to bring back many youth from the path of violence and took no strict action against them and now they are spending their lives normally .

What would be done to improve people and public relations?
The efforts to improve relationship between police and public had been on much fast track few years before but had in between hit a road block . Off late in recent times we have been able to increase healthy interaction between police and public. People in Ramadan shared effective and healthy moments with police at police lines and the process is continuing. We had many iftaar parties with public and shared bondings of love and concern on issues .
The people police cooperation clubs are very much active . We are also making it possible with an effective cooperation of public to bring youth back from wrong paths.
We will continue to be strict against those who want to resort to violence, mayhem or militancy and are very cooperative to bring back those who want to shun path of violence .
As senior police official do you believe police reform bill would be reality?
I would love to see it happening and the draft bill in this regard has become bit old would require some changes. On our own level as organization we have brought many impressive reforms and improvements but yes the implementation of reform bill would give effective legal framework to operate.The effort is also on that a police official always remains in high morale and remains at ease. We also want that the personnel problems, anger faced by police personal does not reflect on their public conduct .

Your take on current numbers of militants?
I won’t go in the number thing but would like to state that this year the situation has improved a lot . The local youth joining militant ranks has gone down which is heartening development and the infiltration is also going down which is a good news .

How much threat remains of an episode like Pulwama blast in future?
When you have a full fledged country like Pakistan backing all sorts of militant and terror outfits the threat of attack remains but we have neutralised huge number of attacks and such great work never makes to news headings .
Prison situation which you too have monitored closely remains grim. What about prison reforms in the state?
There is a definite need to upgrade the prison infrastructure . We don’t have much space to accommodate prisoners and with increasing crime rate the overcrowding results in first time offender becomes fodder for radicalized . We also had seen huge riot by radicalized prisoners in Central jail and own regulations set by groups like Lashkar, Hizbul and Hurriyat inside jails. All this has been tackled effectively and identifying the culprits, launching action against them. We are isolating first time offenders from radicalized ones.
We have started series of skill development courses like Carpenting in Central jail srinagar, Plumbing in Pulwama and cloth manufacturing in Jammu jail and all these courses are going in impressive manner changing life of prisoners towards greater good .We are also increasing number of jails that would ensure no over crowding and efficient regulation of prison.
All these good works unfortunately never make to news stories.
Are groups like ISIS, Alqeda making footholds in Kashmir?
These groups have their own area of operation. These are anti humanity groups and these groups are not operational in Jammu and Kashmir and would never be allowed to rise .
Your message to the people especially youth?
My appeal to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir is that you are our precious treasure. It is the land of great sufi saints. From Habba Khatoon, Nund Reshi to Baba Shakurdin the rishis, sufis and Munis have made Kashmir their abode. It is sad to see that same land has become hell due to violence. The youth should shun the discourse of death, destruction and mayhem. I appeal them to become love, peace, harmony as hate, destruction yields nothing . The discourse of death and destruction has never been tradition of Kashmir.
Youth of Kashmir should also stay away from menace and monster of drug addiction as this will give just destruction of dreams and lives. All stakeholders of society should come forward to fight menace of drug addiction and help in restoring peace and normalcy back in Kashmir.

Sports are key to overall development of women : Prerna Rajput

38 year old Prerna Rajput is pioneering active Women’s sports club in metropolitan cities of India and envisaging to take them to other smaller cities and towns of India in order to provide women with healthy sports atmosphere by providing them opportunity to play tournaments in diverse sports without any charges.
In an exclusive interview she talks to Rameez Makhdoomi and Farzana Mumtaz.
A bit about your venture?
Our active women’s sports club is a platform for all women especially for women to reignite the passion of sports playing in them. Our thrust is on women living in two and three tier cities in addition to major cities . There is no age bar and we engage both young girls and women to play diverse sports in a competitive spirit.
They perform and learn here by being with best of country.
Does your initiative help to relieve stress of women ?
The engagement here with sports in active manner gives women proactive life style which just not gives them relief from stress but also helps in maintaining health. Sports are key to overall development of women.

Are you planning to take this initiative outside main metropolis cities?
Yes it is our priority to go to smaller cities were women lack opportunity and provide them exposure via developing atmosphere of community sports and engage them in regular tournaments.
In cities like Mumbai there are regular tournaments going – Badminton, Handball, cricket etc., but in other smaller cities women are not aware about the criteria how to participate and we are going to reach them and bring best of talent out.

Is your active women sports club accessible to poor and middle class women as well?
Absolutely it is open to all as we don’t charge anything. It is the community we are creating wherein if you have potential come and play and join us. It is absolutely open for everyone.
How has been government response been so far?
We have not approached the government yet and we are four women who are brain behind this .We are empowering women via sports and once we reach that level required to approach Government we are hopeful of good cooperation and active role.
Are you hopeful your these active women’s sports clubs can produce future stars?
I certainly hope we are going to produce future stars by providing platform, honing skills and best exposure to untapped great talent.
Is patriarchy or it’s tight control an irritant to women participation here?
Not at all. The men who are onto sports or men who simply got know-how of our initiative are all welcoming and ready to lend all cooperation.

Women safety is an area of concern, anything you would do in this regard?
See training is not our forte but we will definitely encourage the tournaments in Sports ranging from karate to wrestling. Our forte as sports platform is organizing tournaments.
Is it open to all and how can amateur women benefit?
We are open to all women, the women who desire to play sports , who are already playing or those who had left but want to make come back can participate in our tournament and win trophies.
Our active women sports clubs have prominent women sportsperson playing and amateurs definitely learn a lot from them.
Your future goal?
We have started from Mumbai and want to reach every small city and town to provide active sports playing platform for women. We want to be hope of every house hold.
Any plans to come to Kashmir?
Security is slight area of concern .
The Jammu and Kashmir state is our prime area of concern and want to organize scores of sports tournaments for women.
Girls can see via your sports club active sports career?
I have made it clear that women who are actively or want to be actively involved can come and join us.
People who are already playing in our clubs are international or national players and veterans and young girls by participating in these tournaments get coached and trained a lot.
What motivated you towards starting these active sports clubs?
I have always been involved with sports actively like Badminton and volleyball . I had also seen women from smaller cities despite talented get lost in crowd and due to lack of facilities don’t continue. All these factors propelled to be a helping factor to such women who had faced roadblocks in Sports career.
How is the support of your near and dear ones?
My near and dear ones have supported me a lot and always stood behind me in what I do.
Your message to women?
My message to women is adopt sports as career or a daily activity.
Sports not only give you mental health but physical fitness and ability to think in a calm way.

How do you manage your clubs?
We manage it currently from our own resources. We are in talks with few for Colloboration.

We should rise above blame Game: Doctor Ridwana Sanam

Doctor Ridwana Sanam from Kashmir, who is globally known and awarded Physiotherapist and health entrepreneur ,is contesting as an independent candidate from South Kashmir Parliamentary constituency.
In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir, she talks to Rameez Makhdoomi and Farzana Mumtaz.

Why you didn’t stick to profession as Doctor wherein you were very successful and preferred to be politician ?

I believe all the main fields are related and especially the field of Doctor is most suited to politics as Doctors throughout the history have been very successful politicians as our field involves identifying, diagnosing and giving remedy to problem which are also basic pillars of successful politics.

Will you be able to compete with political heavyweights from South Kashmir?
I don’t agree that the word impossible exists in the electoral politics as with determination to work and serve Your Own people and good intentions can help cross any barrier which I have fully espoused.

Why didn’t you join the National Conference since your family has been closely associated with it ?
Be it National Conference or any other party the problem is they won’t encourage a young, budding and dynamic voice to go into Lok Sabha ,that is why I decided to fight as independent candidate.

Your father rich political legacy how much will it help you?

To the credit of my father he has had two great attributes one is that he showed utmost loyalty to both the party and people .Secondly he also lead by example by serving the people. He believed in politics of principles.

Will South Kashmir vote as it has been witness to lot of bloodshed?
No doubt scores of our youth have been killed but the solution to our problems lies in voting and elect a represehtative who represents tears and cries of masses and aspirations of youth.

Are you going to stay in politics world?
I am in political field for a permanent inning as I believe we need to go into the system to make it work and initiate good number of changes in it that positively impact masses on ground zero.

How much pain you have felt as you have visited scores of villages in past few months in South Kashmir?
The pain in almost all the areas of South Kashmir is not just visible but significant as well. I believe the politicians in our world should rise above the blame game and dirty politics and serve the masses to end this pain.

What will be your main priorities?
My biggest priority as the politician would be to guide my youth in becoming self reliant by learning the skills of self entrepreneurship as I have been not just successful Doctor but a successful entrepreneur and once elected I would ensure that allocated funds are honestly put to use of public welfare.
My other major priority would be that people especially youth develop their mental and physical health via taking actively part in the sports activities.

How will you be different if elected to Lok Sabha?
I am very well aware of the functioning of parliament and the dynamics governing it and will champion the voice of people of Kashmir in a forceful manner. I would make my every move taking into consideration the interests of my people into the context.

How difficult it is for women to be in electoral politics?
I believe leader is a leader and he or she should not make gender an excuse to rise and deliver.

Will you put into practise the vast health entrepreneurship knowledge in practise in Kashmir?
Definitely I would like to create jobs, improved health care and skill development via my experience, knowledge and give utmost to Kashmir.

With few days to go to polls, what would you like to say to your electorate?
I would like to say that although situation is tough but we should vote in high numbers and learn not just to crib. The time is ripe to follow heart and mind and vote a good leader who represents us in a nice way and use vote judiciously to a candidate who you think can deliver .

In BJP Merit and efficiency works: Sheikh Khalid Jehangir

Sheikh Khalid Jehangir is an prominent youthful politician of BJP and party candidate from Prestigious Srinagar Constituency in the Lok Sabha elections . He has been a well known journalist, writer , political strategist. He joined in 2014 BJP and became Bharatiya Janta Party and its Jammu & Kashmir Affairs Spokesperson. He was fellow at International Strategic Affairs Washington DC.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir, Sheikh Khalid Jehangir talks to Editor in chief Farzana Mumtaz.

Will BJP open account in the Lok Sabha elections from Kashmir valley ?

The Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) is focusing on grassroots to strengthen itself along with its agenda of positive change. Our focus is on to take the baby steps forward and take in progressive method of step by step .

You are in BJP since few years now but in coming electoral contest you are locked in tough contest with Stalwart like Drug Farooq Abdullah your take ?
In today’s Kashmir there are no stalwarts in Kashmir the youth hate equally any NC politician as they will anyone from BJP and it is because our local mainstream parties have cheated both masses of Kashmir and New Delhi. They got all benefits for themselves and their kiths and kins but unfortunately exploited the masses. They engaged masses in futile discourse.

What will do you to change this image of mainstream?
My clear cut slogan is ” Leave falsehood stick to truth “, as since 1947 the mainstream politicians of pro India parties have just worked to promote themselves and their sons and daughters, they got every benefit from India but in return gave nothing to masses of Kashmir and only taught them hatred of India. They fixed no criteria for making their children take dynasty positions and gave them everything on platter. They used innocent masses and kept them busy with India Pakistan China discourse. Now curtains are failing and people are knowing truth.

Your take on increasing tendency of youth taking up arms in Kashmir?
The more youth have gone to militancy because the traditional mainstream parties have betrayed the people by not working and just raising the false rhetoric and just giving preference to their personnel interests and remaining disconnected from the issues of people as a result youth alienation has increased at a fast pace. We as BJP will change this perception of mainstream and give heed to issues faced by masses.

What are reasons for such volatile situation in South Kashmir ?
The mainstream leadership have failed their masses and disconnected from the people . The leaders and elected representatives of south Kashmir resorted to false things and broke every promise , the PDP first formed government with BJP and in front of public resorted to maligning our image .They by their conduct ruined everything .
Critics believe by Jamaat and JKLF ban you are choking political space in Kashmir ?
Every country has its well defined national interest .India only does not have national interest but all the countries of world be it Pakistan or USA. The ban on these organizations was imposed as per feedback from the central agencies .No country can tolerate separatism and extremism.
Some say hardline policies of BJP Forced many youth to arms ?
Our party is in baby step. The Chief Minister of this state is chairman of unified command. This question should be asked to Mehbooba Mufti .From Khalid Jehangir to others we got disconnected from people and remain aloof in our dreams from Gupkar to Church lane.PDP lead by Mehbooba Mufti did not acted as Chief Minister of her state but of her party workers as a result the situation worsened.
Critics say BJP under Amit Shah and Modi represents hardliner Hindutva party?

These type of things are just propaganda as in BJP merit works not just dynasty. In the BJP party anyone by his capability and merit rises while as in other Parties from NC, PDP to Congress just dynasty works and it is about favoritism and nepotism while as in BJP Merit and efficiency works .

Your take on the rising mob lynching in India during BJP rule ?
Mob lynching is always condemnable and even in Kashmir if a tourist gets hurt or killed in stone pelting we all condemn it similarly it is propaganda to paint few isolated episodes generalizations which is not the case .
Do you believe BJP will get in future state wide mandate ?
Definitely BJP is gaining foot holds in the state of Jammu and Kashmir and we are a bigger national progressive political force bound to grow and people are realizing cheap politics of NC and PDP .
What steps would you take to decrease youth anger and alienation?
I would ask the youth of Kashmir to go in maximum numbers in Mainstream politics and get connected to the main power center Delhi as youth should be encouraged to go in mainstream to achieve positive results .

Dr. Ridwana Sanam is a women of par excellence. As a dynamic health care professional she has made Kashmir proud on global stage.
Renowned Consultant Physiotherapist, A lively & energetic person owns very optimistic personality.
Dr. Ridwana Sanam founded KRV Physiotherapy at Gurgaon in 2006 and it was dully incorporated in 2011 under the Indian Com-
panies Act 1956 as KRV Healthcare & Physiotherapy Pvt. Ltd.

Because of her dedication, hard work and commitment
to herself for removing pain from the human life. She has prevented more than 55,000 surgeries of slip disc and osteoarthritis
by treating her patients successfully.
She conducts free health camps on regular basis and provides pain relief therapy. She has given physiotherapy training
and job to poor and under privileged girls from various organizations.
For her outstanding efforts & contributions in healthcare sector she bagged several National & International awards.

Pertinent to mention, KRV
KRV Healthcare & Physiotherapy Pvt. Ltd. a well-known physiotherapy center in
north India, well equipped with latest and world class technology. It is having a
large team of competent physiotherapist and technical staff. It is known for clinical expertise & skilled personal touch. The main objective of KRV is removing pain from
the human life. The treatment for the conditions of Orthopedic, Neurological, Pediatric, Obesity, Cardio-Pulmonary and Sports
Injuries is provided. For enhancing the well beings of the employees of Corporate Sector, The workshops are conducted for workstation assessment, functional restoration and ergonomic advices all over India.
KRV also provides On-Site Physiotherapy for Golfers, Schools, and Sports Industry etc. It undertakes projects for RSI
(Occupational Overuse Syndrome) to treat life style diseases. It is empaneled with several Schools, Colleges, Corporate
groups and Multinational Companies.
On the other hand,
Dr. Ridwana Sanam professionally is an Entrepreneur, Author, Speaker, Founder & Managing Director of KRV Healthcare &
Physiotherapy Pvt. Ltd. She is Chairperson for PHD Chambers of Commerce & Industry (State Expert Committee) Jammu &
Kashmir for the key areas like Skill Development, Health Women Welfare & CSR. She is Professional Physiotherapy Consultant for Professional Golfer’s Association and for the Stars of International Boxing event by Hope & Glory.
She has completed her bachelors in Physiotherapy from Mangalore, M.P.T, CMHD, C.M.T, M.I.A.P, H.O.D Apart International
Pain Management (USA), RSI Consultant (India), certified trainer in International Thera band from UK, certified consultant in
an International K Active Taping from Japan , Manual Therapy from Singapore , Dry Needling from AIIMS, India and Perusing
Doctorate in Physiotherapy from National University of Medical Sciences USA.
Her eminent
Achievements & Awards
Include :
» Dr. Ridwana Sanam was awarded by World Women Leadership Congress awards for Best Entrepreneur Skills.
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam was awarded as Best Physiotherapy Consultant by Professional Golf Association of India in 2014 &
2016.
» “Women of Substance” and appreciated by His Excellency, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Azad, Former President of India – 2013.
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam was Crowned as “Angel in Medical Services” at Gurgaon, Haryana – November, 2013.
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam was awarded as Best physiotherapist in India by Brand Icon & the renowned actress, Shilpa Shetty
Kundra in Goa in 2017
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam Served as Guest Speaker in several Entrepreneurship Programs organized by TIE New Delhi
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam was Prominent Speaker the International Entrepreneur for Physiotherapy and Sport Industry in India
at Taj Palace Delhi represented Physiotherapy Industry India in sport
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam served as Jury Member for Startup India in 2017.

As a matter of fact, Dr. Ridwana Sanam is epitome of prestigious excellence :
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam is Knowledge partner for the GSK product – iodex
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam was Guest Speaker at Aligarh Muslim University, Physiotherapy conference for Entrepreneurship of
Physiotherapist (8th October, 2017).
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam appointed as Chair Person for PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Kashmir Chapter) for the key
areas like Skill Development, Health,Women Welfare & CSR.
» Dr.Ridwana Sanam was conferred with 10th National Women Excellence Award 2017 on 25th Nov, 2017 at International
Centre, New Delhi.
» Dr. Ridwana Sanam was Felicitated by “SaMaPa “ in “SaMaPa’s 13th Annual music Festival – SaMaPa Sangeet Sammelan”
for recognition of her achievements and great work in Health Sector of bringing laurels to the State of J&K
» Dr. Ridwana Sanam appointed as Consultant Physiotherapist (Sports, Rehab & Treatment) – for Stars of International
Boxing event at International Boxing Event organized by Hope & Glory in Delhi (India).
» Health Talk Show- Video Conference at Royal Bank of Scotland at Cyber City Gurugram, Haryana on 9/3/2018
» Conferred with “Women of Substance” award at Jamia Milia Islamia by Mrs. India universe Mrs.Neetu Khosla
Corporate Membership & Appointments
» TIE – Chartered Member & Entrepreneur’s Trainer
» PHD – Executive Members & Entrepreneur’s Trainer
» FICCI – Executive Members. & Entrepreneur’s Trainer
» IAMSME – Faridabad, India, Small & Medium Entrepreneur’s Trainer
» Chairperson for PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Kashmir Chapter) for Key Area like Skill Development, Health,
Women Welfare & CSR.
» Consultant Physiotherapist (Sports, Rehab & Treatment) – for Stars of International Boxing event at International
Boxing Event organized by Hope & Glory in Delhi (India).
Magazines & Print Media (Publications)
» Femina on March, 2017
» Whispers in the Corridors on April, 2017
» Contributed several articles in National, Daily, leading newspapers –News Man Of India (Daughter Of Kashmir), Times
of India, Hindustan Times, Greater Kashmir, Amar Ujala etc.
» Whispers in the Corridors “ Dr. Ridwana Sanam appointed as Consultant Physio for Stars of International Boxing Event”
» Rising Kashmir “Daughter of Kashmir Dr. Ridwana Sanam appointed as Consultant Physiotherapist for International
Boxing Event “Legend & New Hope“
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DR. RIDWANA SANAM can be reached on Email: ridwanaphysio@gmail.com | krv.ridwanasanam@gmail.com
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Undoubtedly Dr. Ridwana Sanam is a bright star and example for other women wanting to shine.

Poet should use easy language : Sagar Nazir, Poet

Known famously by Pen Name young Sagar Nazir (Real name Nazir Ahmad Waza) from North Kashmir famous town of Pattan has over the years risen to be an eminent poet of Kashmir.

In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir, he talks to Rameez Makhdoomi.

How was family support like?
Family support was like anything for me and especially parents stood behind me always. The Almighty Allah has been kind enough to me .Friends, Neighbours and my village people have been great support to me.

Which poets have influenced you?
From the old generation of poets great Rasool Mir has influenced me a lot, from new ones Dr. Aziz Hajini ,Rukhsana Jabeen have inspired me lot and few legendary poets who are behind my success include late Mohammad Ahsan Asan Sahab, who was not dependent on any introduction. Professor Mohammad Zama Azardoo, Ghulam Qadir shaad Dardapori from our side who taught me how to read and write Kashmir language.
How many books have you authored?
It is a very important question and in this regard I would like to first mention that I have compiled works of some unknown poets in form of books which are about seven in number.
My own first book is titled “Thaer Angenich”based on Kashmir poetry and other on children titled ” Zooni Mouj” and the upcoming too is on Kashmiri poetry titled “Panjrich Hayre”.

What prompted you to poetry?
From Childhood I was inclined towards listening Radio Kashmir programme and this translated into my love for poetry and first I started writing in Urdu and then full fledged in Kashmir language I wrote poetry.
My first pen name was Kamran and today I write Sagar Nazir and my real name is Nazir Ahmad Waza.
Your message to young poets?
I would like to request my young and budding writers that my message is they should use language that is easily understood by all and keep in consideration everyone from farmer to vendor . They should also write on current Kashmir pain and write on the culture as well as be cautious to protect our rich tradition.
What are main topics of your poetry?
My favourite topics focus on our tradition, ancient times and culture. I also focus on the current tragic situation of Kashmir wherein a mother is unsure whether the son that leaves in morning for work would come back safely in evening.
One of the song written by me which became quite famous here in Kashmir and Pakistan ,USA and other parts and was translated in other languages Bangi drayokh changiy ma chaak ( You left in morning not to come back .
One of my poetic Ghazal on our rich tradition also became quite famous and was translated in about two dozen languages.
Any thing more?
Yes I would like to state that in my area Chukkar Pattan I run the Sagar Cultural Forum wherein all the budding poets are given chance and many literary events held.
Besides one of my written song when a bride leaves her home is also quite popular titled :”Raji Mauliun travon”.

Qurat-ul-Ain Masoodi  is a young and  dynamic social worker of Kashmir who has worked extensively on orphans and was brain behind the much appreciated recent mass weddings initiative. She is founder of AASH Hope of Kashmir NGO/Trust

In an exclusive interview, Qurat-ul-Ain Masoodi talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.

 

What prompted you to give practical shape to your recent  mass marriage initiative in Kashmir?

I read a report in daily English daily that more than Ten thousand girls have passed marriageable age  in Kashmir and I decided to do something on it, and I used to get calls from age 50 and more years  women facing same issue .The conflict has hit us hard especially a daily wage class and this has resulted in this tragedy of girls of these families passing marriageable age. Nuclear families are in fashion and the compassion of that joint family is missing with poor girls thus  being at receiving end. .Plus our marriages being a costly affair and females discriminated already  , and thus getting them married was a weapon  of empowerment.

I consider myself as connection between upper and lower economy class and there are the people who trusted my organization and wanted to donate for the same purpose.

A bit about your journey?

We started in the year 2011  AASH Hope of Kashmir  and late Shujaat Bukhari mentored me lot and advised me to remain focused despite what people talk  .I started from orphanage as orphans have always been  close to my heart since   my parents had separated when I was just eight month old  . I have never seen my father. I believe  you either could translate your hatred  or vacuum in life towards destructive or constructive and I chanellized this energy towards positivity.

Although I never faced  financial crisis but faced emotional pain. Missionary school education helped a lot in imbibing social work values in me .I was the first person who got orphanage closed down for abuse, although some people had advised me to just close eyes but I fought till success  .

Have you  faced as a prominent Social activist the tagging culture that is common in our part of the world?

Yes unfortunately there is a good section of people here believing in tagging, as a matter of great misfortune we are judgmental people and make immediate judgments without base. That section says the agency would be behind mass marriages or any other noble work. Why will any secret agency do philanthropic work or marriages of needy section. I keep on telling people social work is amazing and I admire and love when people join me for same  .I come from a quite high profile background – my father has been academician at  Harvard, mother teacher, Uncle justice at court and cousin politician. I choose social work by my passion as serving others is my goal.

Would you agree that social work is disorganized sector in Kashmir ?

We definitely have a disorganized social work sector as our tragedy is that those who study social work are after degrees and want to be in just academics not social work. I am currently studying social work and completed masters. I have seen even some government employees joining social work and other well settled not to help needy but to making careers and minting money out of it , for me social work is close to my heart as it is my passion to serve humanity especially those in need.

It  is great tragedy that some people  ask you what you do beyond social work for bread and butter not knowing this is 24 into 7  job and you do not have even time to take breathe .Our organization  does not have enough money to get even my salary so I work as consultant for many organizations.

Are  we society of more talks less actions and more active on social media than ground zero?

When we do facebooking or campaigns on facebook they are in no means real social work, we talk lofty things and use high-class English on facebook but do not do much on ground. The actual aim social work is to touch human lives and make a positive difference. I worked with a gangrape victim in year 2015 who was raped by a neighbor and gave her meaning to live and fought for her justice, it was unfortunately no news for media and journalists probably due to lack of sensation.

Are we careless as nation when it comes to donating ?

 

Yes the problem in this regard is we either give donation without credibility or make a baseless remark that everyone is thief. Now for a good section of people the trend is changing and they are coming to me and other credible organizations to donate with credibility. I would reaffirm neither easily trust neither totally resort to lack of trust adopt a wisdom based approach according to your own verifications, knowledge.

Whom would you credit the success of your mass marriage initiative ?

I have been able to involve students as students are my hope and these volunteers have been great help to me in making mass marriages event successful.

NGO’S  have a wrong image here, your take ?

Someone had told me that NGO’s have a bad name and I replied that I have joined to change same . I did a sting operation and brought rot in open about an orphanage run by NGO open .

 

 

What changes would you like to see in social work sector in Kashmir ?

Accept social workers as social workers .Don’t be judgmental immediately. When you start organizations for purpose of social work do social work don’t look for your own benefits that then harms name of entire sector .

What is your message to those youth who want to go to social work?

I would like to say join social work sector only when you are passionate and don’t be in this sector just to mint money or achieve cheap limelight . I for long stayed away from media and if you get addicted to limelight your passion towards social work is lost .

I AM READY TO TREAD A LONG PATH : Dr. Shah Faesal

 

 

 

Dr. Shah Faesal born 17 May 1983  is a former  civil servant from Jammu and Kashmir. He has a very dynamic caliber .In 2009, he became the first Kashmiri to top the Indian Civil Services Examination and the first candidate from Kashmir in several years to be selected to the Indian Administrative Service through open merit. He resigned from IAS on 9th January 2019 citing unabated killings in Kashmir.

 

As a matter of fact, He was the first Kashmiri to top the Indian Civil Services Examination in 2009. He holds an MBBS degree from Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences’SKIMS, Srinagar.

 

In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir, he talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.

 

 

 

 

 

You have stated that your resigning was result of unabated killings and bloodshed in Kashmir, when you topped IAS and became officer in 2009 at that time too killings were happening why not resignation then but now ?

 

First of all when you enter the system you entered it to deliver, and to understand and learn things. One does not enter system for resignation. The situation post 2013-14 especially  the new wave of eruption in 2016 pained me , and then I started rethinking that should I continue or not in service and speak about the things around and finally as you know resignation happens once in life not every time .

 

After your resignations the speculations are ripe that you are likely joining the National conference ?

 

I have not had the belief to choose easy paths in life. If choosing easy paths in life was my priority then I would not have resigned from job and secondly joined some established party to enjoy good post as per speculations in social media . I have made it clear that I am not joining any existing political party which has laid all speculations to rest .

 

What is your next step there is lot of curiosity about that ?

 

I have made it clear and requested masses  that I was out of country for some years and also in civil services some years and accordingly it is a must for me to know the ground sentiment. After my resignation a sea of people  especially the youth of Kashmir want to associate with me and to come out of this situation is not easy and had I been  just after power you would have seen me in campaigning for some Party .It is heartening that youth who has never interacted with system is coming to me and I want to engage with my people and youth . I am not after  MP or MLA position but I have made it clear I with my youth want to see if we can occupy the democratic space which is mostly currently held by corrupt lot . I am not after power grabbing but a long view to take careful decisions and get clean mandate not get such people elected who harm more our nation . The initiative which I envisage is long term and it can take even five or ten years but taking my peoples aspirations into count is must.

 

Politics is sometimes also about making your own decisions would you  entirely depend of feedback from people ?

 

My decisions are my decisions. Basically I am not the tradition politician who have degraded politics to crooked nature as I respect my people views and sentiments and cannot overlook them and take their feedback very serious. Ultimately I agree leader has to make his decisions as well .

 

Wouldn’t your leaving civil services leave the notion that civil services are  powerless  in nature  ?

 

No not at all civil services would not lose sheen. I have made it clear that I am  leaving civil services under constrains and there are burning problems which need immediate solutions that is why I have entered politics .

 

How would you balance between pro boycott youth and pro election ?

 

I agree it is a tough task and my thrust is to negotiate in between this space.  I would not take any step that disregards my peoples sentiments , I won’t show eagerness to immediately join electoral politics and take such steps that is seen as dishonoring the sacrifices and emotions of my people . I am ready to tread a long path .

 

You have talked of Imran Khan and Kejriwal but they have succeeded in free societies but ours is conflict ridden, don’t you think it is wrong analogy to compare them with Kashmir ?

 

We are not society or culture of slaves. When I talk about Imran khan and Arvind kejriwal I mean we too can create successful public movements .I appreciate their three methodologies , firstly they sacrificed a lot and secondly failed a lot and thirdly struggled a lot . It does not matter to me where did they achieve these things but methodologies matter to me.

 

Your resignations has lead to wave of resignations by other officer in favour of joining politics  How do you see it ?

 

I see it as a very positive development We have seen politics as a dirty thing and if good people want to join it then it is great development.

 

Your message to people ?

 

We have to learn trusting people despite having seen series of debacles  and betrayals. We cannot be at standstill and stagnant position which will offer no solution to huge bloodshed .We have to give new and honest voices a chance .

 

How do you see issue of youth killing in Kashmir ?

 

Youth annihilation is issue of entire Kashmir..The central government has to shun rigidity and I have tried to bring to their notice to this burning issue. We will have to talk with Government of India and have to make them sensitive about raging fires in Kashmir .

 

Many suggested  you to join hurriyat , your take ?

 

Joining Hurriyat is not easy task and you are imprisoned immediately . It is not in everyone’s mental strength to join Hurriyat and I agree I have taken a easier route as opposed to it .