News Kashmir Magazine

Dhanuka Agritech Hosts Landmark Scientific Horticulture Management Program in Kashmir

Launch of Cutting-Edge Solutions to Empower Apple Growers

Srinagar, April 10, 2025 In a landmark initiative to revolutionize horticulture and apple farming in the Kashmir Valley, Dhanuka Agritech Limited, one of Indias leading agrochemical companies, hosted a high-impact program on Scientific Management of Apple in Srinagar. It was honoured by the presence of Dr. M.K. Verma, Director of Agriculture, ICAR-CITH chief guest
The event spearheaded by Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech Limited, and reflects the companys unwavering commitment to empowering Indian farmers through knowledge, cutting-edge technologies, and sustainable practices. It brings together leading scientists, policymakers, agribusiness leaders, and progressive farmers for a full-day immersion into the future of apple cultivationfocusing on sustainable, disease-resilient, and high-yield farming powered by scientific innovation and farmer-centric technologies.
As part of this initiative, Dhanuka Agritech unveiled a specially designed product portfolio for the comprehensive management of apple orchards. Tailored to the specific needs of apple growers, the Portfolio Launch for Apple Growers introduces innovative solutions to combat prevalent challenges such as Apple Scab, red mite infestations, and premature leaf fall.
At the event, a blockbuster product, MIYAKO, for the control of the spider mite was launched a revolutionary miticide from Nissan Chemicals, Japan. Other highlighted products were DELIGHT (Dodine 65% WP), and CURSOR (Flusilazole). This robust portfolio not only ensures effective pest and disease management but also enhances fruit quality and profitability, reflecting Dhanukas commitment to empowering farmers with world-class crop protection technologies and sustainable orchard solutions.
“Indias food security must go hand-in-hand with nutritional securityand horticulture, especially in regions like Kashmir, holds the key. With high-density apple plantations, our farmers can triple their productivity. At Dhanuka, weve always championed quality, innovation, and farmer-first solutionsfrom launching Omite in Kashmir to introducing greener, safer chemistries like DECIDE. Indian agriculture has a bright future, and our youth are its greatest asset. Its time we erase the word ‘poor’ from ‘poor farmer’ by ensuring rural prosperity through science, technology, and strong industry-academia partnerships. The four wheels of agriculturescientists, farmers, industry, and channel partnersmust move in unison to drive India forward.” Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech
“Kashmir has the ideal blend of talent, discipline, and climate to lead the way in apple cultivation. With high-density planting transforming traditional orchardsfrom 1216 feet spacing to just 34 feetwe can boost productivity from 11 to over 60 tons per hectare. Apple is truly a golden fruit with global demand, and making it export-oriented is the need of the hour. As intensification grows, so will pest challengeshence, the role of research, responsible pesticide use, and technology transfer becomes even more critical. At CITH, we remain committed to empowering farmers with the right knowledge and practices to ensure quality and sustainability.” Dr. M.K. Verma, Director, ICAR-CITH

“Apple is a vital cash crop for Jammu & Kashmir, and the shift towards high-density planting offers immense potential. However, climate change is altering pest dynamicsspider mite infestations are a clear example. We must emphasize integrated pest management with tools like pheromone traps for leaf miners and sticky traps for fruit borers, alongside modern methods like drone spraying. Most importantly, pesticide use should always be judicious and based on economic threshold levels, with utmost attention to safety during application.” Dr. Manzoor A. Parray, Head, Entomology, SKUAST-K
“We sincerely thank Dhanuka for its excellent products and the impactful extension services it continues to provide to apple orchardists in Kashmir. Their efforts in educating farmers about new and innovative technologies are truly commendable. I urge Dhanuka to keep up this good work and further strengthen its support to our growers in the years ahead.” Dr. Mohd. Yusuf Zarger, Director, Cooperative Society Kashmir & Director, NAUF Federation
“Dhanukas products like CURSOR and LUSTRE have proven to be game-changers in apple disease management. Based on my personal experience and results in the field, I confidently recommended them to orchard owners across the region. These solutions are truly making a difference in ensuring healthier crops and better yields.” Dr. Nisar Ahmed Khan, Plant Pathology Expert
Dhanuka is committed to the welfare of farmers across India. To strengthen agricultural extension and research, Dhanuka has signed MoUs with ICAR and 15 agricultural universities across the country. Reaching 14 crore farmers across 6.5 lakh villages is not possible for any single organization alone. Thats why Dhanuka believes in the power of public-private partnerships, a philosophy weve long embraced.
Under its MoU with ICAR, Dhanuka has actively conducted awareness campaigns to educate farmers about product authenticity, encouraging them to scan QR codes on product packaging to verify genuineness.
With over 150 participants from agricultural universities, ICAR institutions, retailers, and apple growers, the event stands as one of the largest public-private scientific collaborations for horticulture in Jammu & Kashmir. It marks a significant stride toward promoting sustainable, technology-driven, and farmer-centric agricultural practices, poised to transform the apple farming landscape of the region.

Journalist Farzana Mumtaz bags Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti award

In a significant development,
Farzana Mumtaz, Editor-in-Chief of Weekly News Kashmir, bagged the prestigious Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Award known also as Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Samman .

The award was given during the three day historical and first of its kind Women Conclave in Kashmir organised by Stree Shakti under leadership of Rekha Mody .

The Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Samman, instituted in 1998 by Stree Shakti, is an award by women, for women, and in memory of an extraordinary woman. It’s awarded to a woman who dared to dream and had the ability to translate her dream into reality.

Dayawati Modi Stree Shakti Samman, instituted in 1998, had Alka Saraogi, an eminent author and Hindi writer, as the winner of the twenty-first award. Farzana Mumtaz became the 22nd recipient of the award and the first from Jammu and Kashmir to bag this prestigious award.

Farzana Mumtaz, in her acceptance speech, dedicated this award to all the women of the globe, especially those who are voiceless and have less say. As a matter of fact, Farzana Mumtaz’s more than two-decade career in journalism has shined in diverse paradigms of media and leadership.

Rekha Mody, Head of Stree Shakti, while presenting the prestigious Dayawati Saraswati Modi Stree Shakti award to Farzana Mumtaz, noted that this esteemed award has traveled from Kolkata to Delhi, Sri Lanka, and now Kashmir.

She commended Farzana Mumtaz for her outstanding contributions to media and women’s leadership, describing her as a true iron lady.

Alka Sarogi, noted author and previous award recipient, observed that Dayawati Modi was a fierce lady who lived life on her own terms and changed the world through her actions.

“It is the award dedicated to every downtrodden woman. The woman who cuts firewood in the forest or sells products to sustain her family. This award is dedicated to every woman,” opined Farzana Mumtaz.

The three-day Stree Shakti Women’s Leaders Conclave witnessed a dynamic vibrancy and a lot of world-changing ideas. Ace scholar and professor of Sanskrit, Professor Kashinath from Nepal, got the Vidushi Vidyotma Stree Samman.

Stree Shakti Women Leaders Conclave , Day 3- Enthralling vibrancy witnessed at SKICC Srinagar

The Stree Shakti 2025 Women’s Leaders Conclave witnessed enthralling vibrancy on third and final day at prestigious SKICC Srinagar.
Rekha Mody , Founder and Chairman of Stree Shakti lit the welcome flame .
With Former Chief Minster and NC patron Dr. Farooq Abdullah being guest of honour.
Eminent women leaders spoke on the occasion.
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Rekha Mody ,Head Stree Shakti Said magnetic personality of Dr. Farooq Abdullah inspires one and all ,and we the women of country would continue to raise demands to our leadership to achieve Gender Justice .

She said Stree Shakti would continue to raise burning issues of women in all relevant platforms.

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Let us create a viksat Bharat for every women of the country where she acts boldly and thinks freely,” observed Aruna Oswal eminent Social worker.

kuwarani Ritu Singh , eminent entrepreneur and Educationist opined that
Light is all within us. Women supporting women is best thing . We have had great, illuminating sessions through this historic Stree Shakti conclave 2025 .This year 2025 is going to be super symbol of development.

Sara Abdullah , eminent women leader of Jammu and Kashmir hoped that such conclaves are signal of optimism and better times.

In his historic speech , Dr. Farooq Abdullah observed that From centuries, women have suffered much travesty. Men have learned only cruelty, not justice. How long will women suffer, I don’t know.

He further said :” One day women rise will have to come and it will come surely. The women of Jammu and Kashmir should also make full use of reservation and contest, but without being remotely controlled by men. Women will have to work hard to rise – Dr. Farooq Abdullah.
He importantly observed that
We will provide land to Stree Shakti and Rekha Mody to establish a Center for the holistic welfare of women .
Famous All Women Band Meri Zindagi – A mission Rock Band from Lucknow lead by Jaya Tiwari gave a firebrand performance on the occasion.

Dr. Nirja Mattoo, a renowned academic of country described the Stree Shakti Conclave as a historic epoch in women’s empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country.

Stree Shakti Women Leaders Conclave generates illuminating sessions at IIM Nowgam – Day 2

By Rameez Makhdoomi
In continuation with the historic Women Leaders Conclave by Stree Shakti – The Parallel Force and She Leads, the series of powerful sessions titled Tracks were held at the Indian Institute of Management IIM Pohru Nowgam, Srinagar. The speakers from eminent walks of life participated and deliberated in the impressive sessions featuring burning topics such as Entrepreneurship and Economic Empowerment, Redefining the future of work, Women’s health and Holistic well-being, Sports enhancing Gender Equality, Her Story: Women Rewriting the Narrative, and several other tracks; issues were discussed during day-long deliberations. The three-day Stree Shakti Women Leaders Conclave is a first of its kind, focusing on diverse issues and outlooks of women from the country and the world.
As a matter of fact, more than 100 women leaders ,scholars and entrepreneurs from diverse field shared their expertise on these illuminating sessions .

The conclave’s comprehensive approach to addressing women’s issues was widely appreciated, with many participants expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to engage with thought leaders and change-makers. The event served as a catalyst for meaningful conversations, inspiring a new wave of women’s empowerment and leadership in the region. Rekha Mody, the founder and Chairperson of Stree Shakti, also an eminent women leader of the country, opined that Kashmir has been an epicenter of positive power and spirituality, and they are not there just for women’s empowerment but to give a message of peace and prosperity to the entire world. She observed that already burning demands raised by Stree Shakti and She Leads, like free transport for women and reservation issues, have been addressed, and more recommendations would come up through this historic conclave.

Empowering Women, Empowering India : Stree Shakti Women Leaders Conclave 2025 Begins in Kashmir

In a first, the Women Leaders Conclave 2025, organized by Stree Shakti – The Parallel Force and She Leads, has commenced in Srinagar, with the inaugural session held at the Royal Springs Auditorium. Rekha Mody, Founder of Stree Shakti, welcomed inspiring women leaders from across the country. She expressed that women are empowered when they interact with and meet other empowered women.

During the inaugural session, eminent author and Sahitya Academy Award winner Alka Sarogi discussed her novel “Gandhi and Sarla Devi,” highlighting the legendary role of Sarla Devi and the contributions of women in India’s freedom struggle.

The conclave aims to bring together numerous women leaders from various backgrounds, including academics, politics, civil society, and pioneering thought leaders, to promote gender equity and empower women. The event features diverse sessions on women empowerment, providing a platform for women to share their experiences, challenges, and successes.

The conclave’s objectives include empowering women, building capacity, increasing women’s participation in decision-making processes, and promoting women’s achievements. By bringing together women leaders and change-makers, the conclave seeks to create a lasting impact and inspire future generations of women leaders.

Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson Managing Director of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, also shared her iconic journey and her role as a leading figure in India’s hospitality sector. She praised Stree Shakti’s efforts in organizing this historic conclave in Kashmir and urged the women of Jammu and Kashmir to excel in every field.

Eminent woman leader Khair Ull Nissa Sheikh anchored the program.

Nuzhat Gull, Sports Secretary of JK, shared how the women of Jammu and Kashmir are achieving remarkable success in sports and provided perspective on the milestones accomplished by Jammu and Kashmir in the past five years.

Dr. Rashmi Singh, an accomplished IAS officer and Commissioner-Secretary of Hospitality and Protocol for the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasized that creating more spaces for women, coupled with economic independence, is essential for their rapid advancement.

The inaugural session was graced by a galaxy of intellectuals from various fields, including educationists, officials, lawyers, journalists, and activists.

1. News Kashmir organises landmark event on Women’s Month and World Women’s Day

News Kashmir Weekly hosted a grand event today, March 13, 2025, at Hotel Downtown, Little Persia Srinagar, to commemorate World Women’s Day and Women’s Month. The event was made possible by Jammu and Kashmir Bank, the exclusive banking sponsor, and Fortis Hospital Mohali.

Rameez Makhdoomi, Content Editor of News Kashmir, and Farzana Mumtaz, Editor-in-Chief of News Kashmir, moderated the event. The theme “Accelerating Action for Gender Parity” was discussed at length by participants, who spoke about the importance of women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Well known Advocate Sana Khan ensured smooth deliberations of the entire programme .
Renowned personalities from various fields attended the event, including Dr. GN Qasba, former SMC Commissioner and eminent social personality; Professor Shabnam Ara, National Award winner and Dean of Students’ Welfare at Cluster University; Bilquis Mir, world-famous water sports athlete; and Anbreena Anjum, Executive Engineer at Water Works Jal Shakti Division, Srinagar. Mantasha Binti Rashid, Deputy Director Rural Sanitation, were present as a guest of honor.

Other notable attendees included Saika Rashid, Engineer and well-known Calligraphy artist; Zehra Shafi, renowned Journalist working with PTI; Munazah Kanwal, Eminent Journalist; Mir Sabeen Gulrez, Budding Journalist; Sabhat Mir, eminent social rights personality; Ambreen Nawaz, prominent Entrepreneur; Ishrat Tanki, well-known educationist; and Eliza Izhar, educationist shared their vibrant thoughts.

Bilal Bashir Bhat, Editor-in-Chief of Daily Srinagar Jang; Rizwan Geelani, prominent Journalist working with Greater Kashmir; Imran Naiku, well-known journalist working with Gulistan News; Khursheed Qureshi, Veteran Journalist; Imran Ali, healthcare professional; Badrunissa Bhat, well-known research scholar and Sufi artist; and Advocate Sharif, well-known lawyer, also participated in the event and shared their thoughts.

All the participants were felicitated for their contributions towards women’s empowerment.

Academic Expert Sheikh Sameer and eminent oncologist Dr. Shabnam Bashir also shared their valuable insight .

Territory Head J&K, Policy Advocacy Research Centre (PARC), Ruchita Rane, also attended the event and shared her expertise.

The event concluded with a vibrant discussion on women’s rights and ensuring safe working environments. A gender-just Jammu and Kashmir was resolved upon unanimously by all participants.

Proposal to Dedicate the Bone and Joint Hospital, Srinagar, to Dr. Farooq Ashai
Motivation, Inspiration, and Legacy in Dedicating a Hospital to Its Founder:
AUTHOR; DR. FIAZ MAQBOOL FAZILI
Dedicating a hospital to its founder is a powerful gesture of gratitude and legacy, honoring their vision and tireless efforts that shaped the institution. It serves as an enduring inspiration for healthcare workers and the community, symbolizing leadership, perseverance, and commitment to societal betterment. The hospital becomes a living monument to the founder’s ideals, instilling hope and trust in patients while fostering a culture of excellence and pride among employees. This act immortalizes the founder’s contributions, strengthening the institution’s identity and associating their name with quality care, compassion, and innovation.
The Bone and Joint Hospital, a cornerstone of orthopaedic care and innovation in Kashmir, stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, Dr. Farooq Ashai. His remarkable contributions, spanning over decades, have profoundly shaped the field of orthopaedics in the region. In recognition of his legacy, we propose to dedicate the new Bone and Joint Hospital building or the entire institution to Dr. Ashai’s name. This would honor his extraordinary career and inspire future generations to uphold the values he embodied.
Dr. Farooq Ashai, a luminary in the field of orthopedics and a cherished figure in Kashmir, has left an indelible mark on the healthcare landscape of the valley. Renaming the Bone and Joint Hospital, Srinagar, in his honor would be a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to medicine and the people of Kashmir. This proposal outlines the rationale and process for this dedication.
Why Honor Dr. Farooq Ashai?
A.Pioneer in Orthopedics:
Dr. Farooq Ashai was a trailblazer in orthopedic care in Kashmir, contributing significantly to the advancement of this specialty. His expertise and innovation have saved countless lives and alleviated suffering for many.

B.Commitment to Healthcare:
Dr. Ashai’s career was marked by an unwavering commitment to providing high-quality healthcare, even in challenging circumstances. His work in the Bone and Joint Hospital has been instrumental in establishing it as a center of excellence.
C.Mentor and Inspiration:
He mentored numerous medical professionals, leaving behind a legacy of skilled practitioners who continue to serve the region. His influence extends beyond his lifetime through the generations of doctors he trained and inspired.
D.Symbol of Sacrifice and Service:
Dr. Ashai’s dedication went beyond the confines of his profession. He was known for his humility, empathy, and relentless service to humanity, making him a beloved figure in the hearts of the people.
E.Impact of Renaming the Hospital
Recognition of Excellence:Naming the Bone and Joint Hospital after Dr. Farooq Ashai would be a public acknowledgment of his contributions to healthcare and orthopedics, setting a benchmark for future generations.
Inspiration for Healthcare Professionals-Associating the hospital with Dr. Ashai’s name would inspire healthcare workers to emulate his principles of dedication, empathy, and excellence.
Strengthened Community Connection:Such a tribute would deepen the emotional bond between the hospital and the community it serves, as Dr. Ashai’s legacy resonates with the people of Kashmir.

Career Highlights of Dr. Farooq Ashai.Born in 1938, Dr. Farooq Ashai’s journey began in a local school in Kashmir. He completed his FSC from SP College with honors and pursued MBBS at Amritsar Medical College. Driven by an innate passion for orthopaedics, he undertook a house job in orthopedics at Safdarjung Hospital and later earned his MS in Orthopedics from Patna Medical College under the mentorship of Dr. Mukhopadhyay, regarded as the father of Indian orthopedics. Further enhancing his expertise, he completed a residency in orthopedics at Milwaukee, USA.
Dr. Ashai joined Government Medical College, Srinagar, as an Assistant Professor in 1963 and went on to serve as Head of the Department (HOD) and Director of Artificial Limbs for 21 years. His unparalleled contributions include, Dr. Ashai was instrumental in separating the Orthopedics Department from General Surgery, marking a new era in specialized care in Kashmir. Under his leadership, the Bone and Joint Hospital became a center for advanced learning, nurturing a new generation of orthopedic surgeons. His efforts led to the establishment of the Bone and Joint Hospital in Barzulla, which has become a beacon of hope for countless patients.Dr. Ashai pioneered arthroscopy and joint replacement surgeries (knee, hip, and shoulder) when these techniques were still in their infancy in India.
Trailblazing Surgical Innovations:a. TB spine anterior lateral decompression.thoracotomy for cervical spine surgery.,c.TM joint surgeries for lockjaw ,. Oncology surgeries for bone tumours, Paediatric orthopaedic surgeries for congenital deformities

Legacy and Impact-  Dr. Ashai was not only an outstanding clinician and surgeon but also an inspiring teacher and compassionate caregiver. Known for his honesty, dedication, and selfless service to the underprivileged, he left an indelible mark on the lives of his patients and students.
Dr. Farooq Ashai’s vision and relentless pursuit of excellence have set unparalleled standards in orthopedic care. His innovations and contributions not only elevated the Bone and Joint Hospital but also placed Kashmir on the map as a center of orthopedic excellence. As an organizer of the Indian Orthopedics Association, he played a pivotal role in advancing the profession at a national level.
Why Dedicate the Hospital to name of Dr. Ashai?
Dr. Ashai’s efforts were instrumental in establishing and developing the Bone and Joint Hospital as a premier orthopedic institution.His pioneering work in surgeries and patient care laid the groundwork for modern orthopedics in the region.
Inspiration for Future Generations: Naming the hospital after Dr. Ashai would immortalize his contributions and serve as a constant source of inspiration for healthcare professionals. His unwavering commitment to his patients, students, and the community deserves recognition at the highest level.

Dedicating a hospital to its founder is not merely symbolic; it is a beacon of motivation, an enduring source of inspiration, and a tribute to the iconic vision that laid its foundation. It ensures that the founder’s dream continues to guide the institution toward a future of impactful healthcare service. Renaming the Bone and Joint Hospital, Srinagar, to honor Dr. Farooq Ashai would not only be a tribute to an extraordinary individual but also a celebration of his contributions to healthcare in Kashmir. Dedicating the Bone and Joint Hospital to Dr. Farooq Ashai’s name would be a fitting tribute to a visionary who transformed the landscape of orthopedic care in Kashmir. It would immortalize and honour his legacy, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in the service of humanity. As a Medical fraternity it would reaffirm our commitment to excellence, innovation, and compassionate care—values he upheld throughout his life. Let this dedication serve as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come and a reminder of the power of dedication and service to humanity. Conclusion
This initiative deserves widespread support, as it would reflect the gratitude and respect of an entire region for a man whose life was dedicated to healing and hope.
(Dr. Fiaz Maqbool Fazili is a medical doctor., former Medical Faculty, a member of the Group of Concerned Citizens, and a columnist who actively contributes to discussions on Healthcare, moral, social, and religious issues. He can be reached at drfiazfazili@gmail.com or via Twitter @drfiazfazili.)