News Kashmir Magazine

                       BLACK AND WHITE FUNGUS Suhaib Ashraf Bhat

Black Fungus: COVID-associated mucormycosis, commonly but erroneously, referred to as black fungus, is the association of mucormycosis (an aggressive fungal infection) with COVID-19. It been reported around the nose, eyes and brain – a clinical manifestation sometimes referred to as ‘rhino-orbital-cerebral (ROC) mucormycosis’. Reports of COVID-associated mucormycosis have generally been rare. A review of the medical literature traced eight cases reported around the world by 9 January 2021. In these reports, the most common risk factor for mucormycosis was diabetes.COVID-associated mucormycosis has especially affected people in India. The association also appeared in Russia. One explanation for why the association has surfaced remarkably in India is high rates of COVID infection and high rates of diabetes. In May 2021, the Indian Council of Medical Research issued guidelines for recognising and treating COVID-associated mucormycosis. Due to its rapidly growing number of cases, the Government of Rajasthan declared it an epidemic on 19 May 2021. Along with the Rajasthan government, the governments of Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Gujarat have also now declared this an epidemic.
White Fungus: White fungus is four times more dangerous than black fungus. It damages many parts of the body and spreads in the lungs. It also shows severe effects on the kidney, mouth, skin, and brain. Young children are also being affected by white fungus. 
Amid the increasing Covid cases, India is struggling with another epidemic called Black Fungus infection. Many cases are being detected of this rare fungal infection in Covid patients and people who are diabetic, have kidney or heart problems, or are on high steroids. Just when the government was dealing with the black fungus epidemic, another fungal infection- White Fungus has started to spread its wings. The infected patients also include a famous specialist from Patna. In such a situation, questions are being raised about how is white fungus different from black fungus infection? How to protect yourself from this infection? Difference in symptoms of White and Black fungus:
White Fungus Symptoms: CoughFeverDiarrheaDark spots on lungs, reduced oxygen level
Black Fungus Symptoms:Facial DeformityHeadacheFacial painNasal congestionLoss of vision or pain in eyesAltered mental state, confusionSwelling in cheeks and eyesToothache, loosening of teethBlack crusts in the nose’
Who is more at risk of White Fungus infection?Both White and Black fungus prey on people with low immunity. Along with this, people suffering from diabetes, cancer, critical illness or a patient admitted in ICU are more prone to black fungus. At the same time, the white fungus attacks people with co-morbidities. People with cancer, excess blood sugar are more prone to white fungus. How white fungus spreads in the body?According to AIIMS professor Dr. Kaushal Verma, the white fungus begins from the tongue or private parts due to which, it makes the tongue white. It then spreads to other organs along with lungs, brains, food pipes.  
According to Dr. Pankaj Aggarwal, the first one has to avoid getting Covid infection. Therefore it is important to strengthen the immunity. Do not overuse steroids during covid treatment. Steroids should be given only when the oxygen levels go down and pneumonia occurs. When the condition is stable, reduce the number of steroids, so that there is no problem of blood sugar fluctuation. White and black fungus infections can be avoided in these ways.
DOCTORS in India have warned that white fungus could infect Covid patient’s lungs and it could be as deadly as the black mould outbreak.It comes after medics in India said that black fungus had been rotting organs and limbs of some patients.Mucormycosis is caused by a group of moulds called mucormycetes which live in the environment in rotting vegetables and fruit, bread, soils and plantsOne expert warned that the white fungus could even appear in patients who have already recovered from the coronavirus.Dr S N Singh, who is head of microbiology at Patna Medical College in Bihar, India, said like the black fungus, white fungus was also likely to be seen in diabetic patients.The black fungal infection is called mucormycosis and is caused by a group of moulds called mucormycetes which live in the environment in rotting vegetables and fruit, bread, soils and plants. Dr Singh explained that the white fungus could be just as deadly if it finds a passage to the lungs in immuno-compromised people.Dr Singh did however say that the presence of Candida had been found in the lungs of patients.Candida is a fungal infection caused by yeast and normally lives on the skin or inside the body in places such as the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina, without causing any problems.But for some people it can cause itchiness or irritation.Candida is a fungal infection caused by yeast and normally lives on the skin or inside the body in places such as the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina, without causing any problems.
But for some people it can cause itchiness or irritation.
According to experts, hot and humid conditions, as well being on oxygen support for a long time, are all causes of both black and white fungal infections.Indian has been bombarded with corona virus cases in the last month and many hospitals have had to pack patients in, treating them in cramped conditions with many receiving oxygen.Mucormycosis mainly affects people who have health problems or take medicines that lower the body’s ability to fight germs and sickness.  Suhaibbhatt85@gmail.com

Title:-  SPEAKING EYES By Monalisa Parida
In the forest, a tree never dies

In a sea, a river never dies In air, a breath never dies 

But I die, For the thoughts of your love. 

Don’t worry, I will not be there tomorrow my love, Know this,

The depth of your eyes speak to me, 

With all the languages of the world

Let me start my journey with you. 

Full of energy, enthusiasm anew. 

About Author Monalisa Parida is from India, Odisha .She  is post  graduate student of English literature and a prolific poetess. She’s very active in social media platforms and her poems have also been published in various e- journals and translated into different languages.

WILL THE US EXIT-STRATEGY FROM AFGHANISTAN WILL SUCCEED OR FALTER.
SUHAIB ASHRAF BHAT.
The US exit strategy without completely eradicating terrorism in the region can be equated with the US pack-up just after the Cold War in 1992. They left their most allied ally- Pakistan- at the mercy of terrorists in the offing- the former Mujahideens against the Soviet Union. These Mujahideens turned into the Taliban later and that cost of the US haste exit strategy was suffered by Pakistan. Death of Osama does not mean the end of terrorism. We would not like to go into the controversy of how and why the war on terror began and how best America could muster its results. But the fact remains that the mess created the US in the post-9/11 haste must not be left for Pakistan again.
In a speech on April 14, President Joe Biden announced the withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan. “It is time to end the forever war,” he declared. Set to begin on May 1, the process will be completed by September 11, 2021, the 20th anniversary of 9/11. What are the implications for Afghanistan, the U.S., and the wider region?
The American withdrawal of troops in Afghanistan has left essential questions of peace in Afghanistan in the air. Without human rights as the primary priority when exiting, there is a risk of violence against the most vulnerable members of society and a potential collapse of the government. The violence has continued in Afghanistan following President Biden’s announcement that American troops will be departing Afghanistan. On May 8th, 2021, a horrific bombing outside Sayed Ul-Shuhada high school is a reminder of the deadly conflict that will continue beyond the American departure. The violent attack is the deadliest attack in 2021.
The Afghanistan Papers report by the Washington Post found that the American government and military officials failed to understand the necessary stabilization strategies and programs to tailor to Afghanistan. As a result, the stabilization in Afghanistan rarely lasted longer than where the coalition troops with physically located. While the stabilization efforts have been abysmal, the cost has been astronomical. According to a Brown University Study, the nearly decade-long war has cost the United States a total of 2.26 trillion dollars. It will continue to cost Americans upon their departure from the region.
The Biden administration decision to disengage militarily from Afghanistan by September 11 may seem warranted, perhaps even overdue, after a commitment of two decades. 
After the Soviets bailed out of Afghanistan in 1989, the U.S. decided that it had little stake in what happened in the country and the region. Virtually all government assistance ceased. America decided to let the Afghans sort out their differences and left Pakistan, erstwhile partner in the jihad against communism, to fend for itself in coping with the fallout of the decade-long Afghan conflict. What America got in Afghanistan was a bloody, anarchic, fratricidal civil war, the rise of the Taliban and the settling in of Al-Qaeda.

For the first time in two decades, the United States says it will have no troops and contractors in Afghanistan and the CIA and Special Forces teams that have led the search for Al Qaeda’s remaining operatives will no longer work from bases in the eastern part of the country.In recent days, the Pentagon began a “retrograde” of its forces in the country, which include what it says are some 2,500 service members, a few hundred special operations troops and some 18,000 contractors. NATO is conducting its own drawdown. The withdrawal could be complete as early as July. President Biden placed a Sept. 11 deadline for the pullout, 20 years after the Al Qaeda terrorist attacks in the U.S.Biden administration officials say that the threat from Al Qaeda has been sharply reduced since the U.S. invasion in 2001 and that it will be possible to keep tabs on the militant groups in Afghanistan from outside the country. Even before Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden’s killing in 2011 in Pakistan, the group’s ranks were decimated and much of its leadership killed or captured.
If a threat of a terrorist attack on the United States or its interests is detected, the Biden administration officials insist, the Pentagon or CIA could strike inside landlocked Afghanistan — with air attacks from faraway bases or Special Forces teams inserted on so-called “capture or kill missions.”
“We will maintain an over-the-horizon capability to suppress future threats to the homeland,” Biden said in an address to Congress. He added that Afghanistan is no longer the only location from which militants threaten the U.S and its allies, naming Yemen, Syria, Somalia and “other places.”
Fighter planes flying from aircraft carriers and longer-range bombers from air bases in the Persian Gulf, Indian Ocean and even the United States could strike insurgent fighters whose locations are fixed by surveillance drones, communications intercepts and informant networks.
But many uncertainties remain about that strategy, including whether any of Afghanistan’s neighbours will agree to let the U.S. base forces or surveillance drones on their territory. If not, the U.S. will have to rely on forces operating from American bases in the Persian Gulf.
Al Qaeda of 2021 is a far smaller organization with less reach, while the United States has built a counter-terrorism capability and familiarity with Afghanistan far exceeding anything it had before 2001.
“There will be some degradation in terms of our ability to know exactly what’s going on,” Zalmay Khalilzad, the administration’s negotiator on Afghanistan, told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “But we believe, given the nature of the threat right now that we would get adequate warning.”
Al Qaeda has fewer than 200 members in south Asia, most of them in Afghanistan, Lt. Gen. Scott Berrier, the head of the Defence Intelligence Agency, said. The group’s second-ranking leader, Ayman Zawahiri, though suffering severe health problems, is still believed to be alive, hiding possibly in Afghanistan, while other leaders are said to be in Iran, according to the agency.
“There was little discernible activity out of the group” last year and “throughout 2021, [Al Qaeda] very likely will be unable to conduct terrorist attacks,” Berrier added, in written testimony to the Senate Armed Services Committee. Instead, the group will “bolster its relationship with the Taliban.” That relationship is the core U.S. concern.Under the terms of a 2020 withdrawal agreement with the Trump administration, the Taliban vowed to prevent Afghan territory under its control from being used by terrorist groups to launch attacks on the U.S. and its allies. U.S. officials insist that the deal requires the Taliban to sever its ties with Al Qaeda, but U.S. intelligence officials do not expect that to occur. 
What happens to that deal after Biden delayed Trump’s May 1 withdrawal date is unclear. Despite publicly distancing themselves from Al Qaeda in private talks with U.S. officials, the Taliban “very likely maintains close ties with the militants at the local level, often through family ties due to years of intermarriage” in Afghanistan and Pakistan, said a senior U.S. official familiar with intelligence assessments about the relationship. A statement posted on the “Voice of Jihad” Taliban website in October said the group had no obligation to sever ties with Al- Qaeda under the U.S.-Taliban deal, the official noted.
Taliban representatives, however, insist they can contain any extremists on Afghan soil. “Al Qaeda was in Afghanistan before Taliban. All those countries now complaining about them supported them at the time of the Soviet invasion, and we now inherited them,” said Suhail Shaheen, a Taliban representative in Qatar.

suhaibbhatt85@gmail.com

                Endangered species are our companions 

 We as a whole have obligation to secure endangered species 

Dar Showkat 

Endangered Species Day 2021: This year sixteenth yearly Endangered Species Day is observed. Allow us to view the set of experiences behind this day, how could it be praised, and about endangered species.  Endangered Species can be perceived as the creatures that are on high danger of annihilation. There are numerous endangered types of plants and creatures worldwide that are in harm’s way. There are different reasons that cause the elimination of these species like the limitation of living space, abuse of these species for business purposes, illnesses, unfriendly climatic conditions, and so forth The IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) is the specialists that keeps a nearby watch on various species and figures out what species care lose to termination. IUCN assess different components to decide endangered species like decrease, size of the populace, space of geographic conveyance, and so on there are a ton of endeavors going on across the world to save endangered species. There could be numerous purposes behind the termination of jeopardized species however one of the significant reasons is loss of living space. Concurred or not yet the deficiency of natural surroundings has been brought about by people for advancement. This gigantic improvement has upset the natural life biological system seriously. Whatever is the explanation yet the truth of the matter is that now the security of these imperiled species is one of the need issues across the globe. A significant number of us may imagine that why securing endangered species is significant. Indeed, there are numerous advantages to saving these imperiled species. The contention is going on around the world “why securing endangered species are significant”. One basic goal of securing endangered species is the delight of people in the future. It is a ton of joy and amusing to observe such superb creatures. Sadly, the species that are going to be terminated won’t be accessible for people in the future. They won’t interface with these species. The lone wellspring of getting data about these endangered species will be through the web or books.

Endangered Species Day 2021: Because of COVID-19, it is praised through online occasions, computerized activities and individual exercises. The day furnishes us with a chance for all periods of individuals to notice and find out about the imperiled species and the approaches to secure them. The day spread mindfulness about the significance of securing imperiled species, their natural surroundings and to make moves important to ensure them. Consequently, Endangered Species Day perceives the public preservation endeavors to ensure our country’s jeopardized species and their natural surroundings. A few occasions and youth challenge are held at different natural life shelters, zoos, parks, public venues, aquariums, greenhouses, libraries, schools and universities and so on.  In 1960s and 1970s worry over the prosperity of creatures with climate and preservation came out. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 was endorsed into law on 28 December to raise the significance of untamed life preservation and rebuilding endeavours for all risked species. It is said that the Endangered Species Day was first made by U.S. Senate in 2006.

How has climate change affected human life?

Around then a few endeavours were made to save species and because of it around many species from elimination were saved like the bald eagle. As per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), in the previous twenty years, the rundown of imperiled species has dramatically increased.  “Endangered species are our companions.” – (Yao Ming)

What qualifies animal types as Endangered?

Distinctive government and neighborhood associations have their own measures of choosing for species that it is imperiled or not. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) keeps up the most far reaching rundown of imperiled species all throughout the planet. The Red List of Threatened Species passes judgment on every species on five unique guidelines.

Regular factors that lead to elimination are:

1.      Human intercession

2.      Loss of territory

3.      Introduction of unfamiliar species into the climate.

4.      Overhunting

5.      Pollution

6.      Disease

7.      Loss of hereditary variety

8.      Deforestation- 

9.      Climate Change etc.

“Conservation of any endangered species must begin with stringent efforts to protect its natural habitat by the enforcement of rigid legislation against human encroachment into parks and other game sanctuaries.”- Dian Fossey

Biodiversity is produced with two words specifically “organic” and “variety”. It alludes to all the assortment of life that can be found on Earth might be plants, creatures, growths and miniature life forms. Just as to the networks that they structure and the natural surroundings in which they live.  Show on Biological Diversity characterizes biodiversity as the inconstancy among living organic entities from all sources including entomb alia, earthly, marine and other amphibian environments and the natural edifices of which they are part; this incorporates variety inside species, among species and of biological systems. Biodiversity isn’t just the amount, everything being equal, species and hereditary material yet in addition it addresses the fluctuation inside and among them. Thus, this is an ideal opportunity to be ready and we should together pursue producing mindfulness among the general population about the significance of untamed life, jeopardized species, biodiversity and protection. Why jeopardized species are at the skirt of elimination? What are the explanations for it? It is important to get it. Most likely elimination is a characteristic wonder of nature however because of some different reasons; termination is expanding a very long time in many years. One day can come when we won’t see tigers, elephants, falcons and so on.

 “We all have a responsibility to protect endangered species, both for their sake and for the sake of our own future generations.” The writer is research scholar from Handwara 

What is the true meaning of liberty?

Syed Mustafa Ahmad 

You may called it freedom or liberty but the fact is that everyone wants to do whatever he or she wants. No body wants to be bound by laws, whether natural or man-made. But the most important thing is that are we ready free to do, whatever we want to do or not. In my opinion, looking at the creation of the universe, it is impossible to do, without rules and regulations. Let us look at this through different angles.       First is God’s creation. The Sun, the Moon, the planets and all other celestial bodies are bound by some fixed laws. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west. The Earth is at appropriate distance from the Sun and other stars and planets. Seasons come and go without a slight mistake. Everything follows some rules that allow peace reign in. No inanimate thing makes a slight effort to go against the Creator who has kept it where It is. So, the natural things are a testimony that freedom is here but in limited sense, which the Creator has given them according to the divine plan.        Second is diversity. As we are aware of this fact that this world is fight between good and evil. The main motive of goodness is that every living organism remains where it is. Any deviation from that path, can prove disastrous. Human beings have been made in such a way that he always tries to throw the chains in  which he is bound. But the experience shows that whenever it  happens, it brings misery in the world. Evil wherever reigns, there are cent percent chances that the natural order is thrown to winds. We have examples of genetic mutations, nuclear experiments, worship others other than Almighty, trying to build another world of their choice, etc., has brought untold misery to the world. The First World War, the Second World War, the Syrian Civil War, etc., are glaring examples that can bring us closer to the fact that life is suitable when it is bound by rules and regulations.       Third is Almighty also wants us to follow Him. He is our Creator. He knows our creation. So, it makes us no sense that creation goes against the wishes of the Creator. The machine is bound to follow his master. Whenever machine goes against the plan of the master, the machine is either repaired or it is discarded forever. This applies to human beings as well. The grand design of the universe says that the Creator has created or made us as machines. Until, we work according to His plan, nothing awkward happens. The very moment we try to put away the yoke of Allah’s rules and regulations,, we are bound to fail. Moreover, He has sent many chosen-messengers to repair human beings so that they may come back to the original path. If this does not happen, then Almighty discards us in the most brutal manner.       Fourth and last is what is the motive behind living. If a person knows why he or she has taken birth, many issues are automatically solved. A meaningful life means that it is sinful to harm anything, whether living or nonliving deliberately. It means not to sacrifice permanent things for temporary things. Permanency means that it is better to remain in limited for long term gains than to break the laws, which have been imposed by the Almighty. So, meaning in life means that we are forced to obey laws for the mass gain.       In short, that life is worthy of living, which is full of rules and regulations. Now, the ball is in our court to decide whether to be a law-abiding or lawbreaking person. Let us ponder over it!

Unexplored Tourism Destinations of Ramban District 

Syed Aamir Sharief Qadri 

The famous Persian couplet of Amir Khusrau attributed to Emperor Jahangir is frequently used by everyone to define the beauty of Kashmir.Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast Trans: If there is a paradise on earth It is this, it is this, it is thisThough these lines were not written to illustrate the magnificence of Kashmir but it was Jahangir who used these words to describe valley as paradise on the earth. What he exclaimed is very true about Kashmir. But it seems-The beauty of other parts of J&K didn’t attract the great Mughals?They also didn’t know what is on the other side of the Pir Panjal?Keeping in view the difficulty of times they had lived, it is simple to answer these questions. Today we have a great technology at our disposal; still, we are unable to locate beautiful places in our surroundings. We even don’t know how many popular lakes, meadows and side valleys surround our Union Territory. What about those unexplored beauty spots that are hidden between lofty peaks. In a bountiful manner the state of J&K has been blessed with uncountable natural resources. Between surfaces of the earth to the top of the snow laden mountains everything is beautiful. From Trans Himalayan Ladakh to Jammu plains the region is painted with many colors.Like every district in J&K, Ramban also got its share when God was distributing valuable gifts in the form of picturesque meadows, lakes, rivers and springs. While travelling on NH 44 that passes through Ramban district people usually recall the horrors of Panthal, Digdol, Kela Mod, Khoni Nallah etc. This road presents a dangerous look and claims many lives every year. To enter safe zones people drive their vehicles very fast and cross risky points in a short span of time. They don’t know the road that cut mountains in the middle, are full of beautiful meadows at top. Let me tell the people who cross this road half-heartedly- “Don’t bow your head anymore. Open your heart to look at the top of these mountains and feel the fragrance of multi-color flowers to make your journey comfortable”.The local people name hilly terrains of Pir Panjal by different terms. For example, the mountain top is known as Maal. The loft peak is called Daar/ Dhar. The pass that connects one area to another is known as Gali. The plain meadow is named as Madaan. The people move their cattle (Mal) to upper reaches in summer season for grazing purpose. These grazing lands are called Baas.  
Some important tourist destinations of district Ramban are as under-1. Zaban Hill Station, Nilpal Lamber and Thandi ChhahThe scenic meadow of Zaban is located about 5 kms from the national highway from Nowgam (Banihal).  The panoramic view of village Khairkoot in Sanglaab valley from the top of Zaban hill station is marvelous. The Bichleri rivulet in Zaban forms lovely waterfall. Zaban is a part of cacaw reserve. Hence a wide variety of wildlife can be seen here. Nilpal Lamber is situated at a distance of about 5 kms from Banihal railway station connected with a motor able road. The sloping meadows, waterfall, spring and streams make this place very charming. Thandi-chhah is 10 kms away from Banihal town. This scenic spot has two parallel streams flowing on either side of the vast meadows.2. Moh Mangith and Adjoining Areas.The twin villages of Moh Mangith are located at a distance of about 45 km from Banihal Town. Its tehsil head quarter is Khari just 5 kms from Nachlana, situated on National Highway. The pahari speaking people of Moh Mangith are culturally more close to Kashmir valley as compared to Jammu region. Though this area is not connected by road with Kashmir but still they prefer to cross just one huge mountain to reach Dandward- Chimer area of district Kulgam. Recently the area was connected to its sub district Banihal through road. Now people don’t need to traverse huge mountain to reach Kashmir for business purpose. The extreme ravishing beauty with gorgeous streamlets and creeks make this area much beautiful. The glamorous meadows are studded with bubbling springs and unique flora and fauna. The beautiful cascades on sprawling rivulets present an elegant look. The slopes are decorated with pine, fir, and deodar forests and mountains with grimy glaciers. Among the other places of equal importance it is necessary to add few more neighboring places to list. Damantrag, Aramnakh, Pathalan, Gudbeir, Nawan, Mohri, Trajbal, Ratan, etc. are worth mentioning. Damantrag is a beautiful meadow at an altitude of about 3450 meter. The snow cover remains for more than six months.3. Neel Top and Pogal ParistanThe impressive Neel Top is located at a distance of 25 kms from Banihal town. This place is situated at an elevation of about 2000 meter above mean sea level and can be visited by two routes. One route leads from Chamalwas and another from Magarkote. Both of these routes fall in Jammu- Srinagar national highway. The heights of Pir Panjal present a majestic glance. At top one can feel every moment very closely. The overhead floating clouds, bright sunshine, cold breeze that touches soft skin, and sometimes fog and terrifying dark clouds shroud you in such a way that it becomes difficult to move on. One can feel all these things at Neel top also. Neel top provides base for many trekking expeditions such as Wasa Marg, Ejan-tragh, Chang Top, Hals-dhar, Bari-naal, Zaradi, Devita-dhar, Wanbara, Hansraj pass, Perhinder, Daganbass, Sargali, Yamul Top, Mayalsar, Nandimarg, etc. Pogal-Paristan- The land of fairies is situated about 23 kms from Banihal.  The tehsil head quarter is located at Ukhral just 8 kms from National Highway via Magarkote. Pogli is the main language of the area. They also speak Kashmiri and Gojri. The famous pogli-geet locally called Chan is sung by both men and women on special occasions. One can enjoy this song while roving freely in the lovely meadows of Pogal Paristan. The two rivers- Pogali nallah (Sundari) and Paristan nallah further adds beauty to verdant meadows. There are streams which provide comfort by producing burbling and tuneful sounds. The spectacular meadows are spread over a vast area. Some popular spots include Nandimarg, Mayalsar Lake, Yamal Top, Sargali, Gogli dhar (Sunseri), Devhira, Gagan Top, Sarvadhar, Hansraj peak, etc. Some of these places can be visited from Kapran (Verinag) area of district Anantnag. There is a vast meadow at Sargali which serves as playing ground for local youth. One can have a pleasant view of Pogal on one side and Banihal on other side from top. At Sarvadhar there is a famous 400 year old temple of Chamunda Mata which can be reached through a village called Senabati. From beautiful Kharwan plateau one can have a majestic view of entire Neel and Paristan areas. During Dogra rule a Fort was constructed there named Pogal Qilla. But today you can see only debris of this ruined fort.4. Gool Gulabgad, Dagan Top and Bhatni village.In the lap of lofty mountains, Gool tehsil is located 55 kms from Ramban. Some important tourist attractions of the place are Dagan Top, Hajam Marg, Jabar Sar, Gooda gali, Ramakunda, Mazamkunda, Tata Pani, Bhatni village, Ladha Dhar, etc. All these places are located in the vicinity of Gool town.  The swirling cool breeze envelops the meadows of Dagan Top. This place offers a picturesque view of Gool town. At an elevation of about 2000 meter this place separates Ramban from Reasi. It is situated about 10 kms from Gool on Gool-Mahore road. At short distance a trek from Dagan top leads to forest covered meadow of Hajam Marg. At a distance of few kms from Gool, Jabar valley is surrounded by green trees and meadows. There is a small marshy lake called Jabar Sar. Gooda Gali is a heritage site famous for stone carved objects. The stones are engraved extensively and art is depicted in various forms. The popular form of art is number of beautifully trimmed horse sculptures decorated with different motifs, on which some riders are sitting on a horse back. Other things of attraction include religious scenes of different Hindu gods, feudal setup in which kings, queens and princes dominate the stage, etc. The hot water of sulphur spring at Tatapani is believed to possess extraordinary healing power to cure diseases like dermatitis and arthritis. Large number of people from J&K visits this spring every year.  Bhatni village is about 32 kms from District head quarter Ramban. At top of village, on fascinating Ladha Dhar range the famous Shankpal temple is located which is famous pilgrimage center. Bhatnimela is held every year in the month of August starting from Nag Panchmi. The centuries old ritual dance Kud is performed in honor of lok devtas by people on these days.Scope for Adventure TourismThe promising tourist resorts of Pogal Paristan, Gool Gulabgad, and Moh Mangith have a great potential for adventure tourism. The majority of sites with beautiful landscape mentioned above are fit for summer and winter sports. The popular sports like snow sledges, paragliding, and skiing can be easily done here. MountaineeringDue to wide range of hills and mountains the local people love to conquer different peaks of the region.  Some popular heights of district include Moh Peak, Reyod Peak, Hansraj Peak, Yamal Top, Gagan Top, etc. At top of Reyod peak, a concrete pillar is said to have been constructed by Britishers for unknown reasons before independence. This pillar is popularly known as Angrez Thumb.Trekking and CampingWalking on moderate to difficult paths, by covering grasslands, forests and rocky surface, in search of relaxed meadows, when someone pitch tent on best camping ground along the river beds, he can relish best moments of life. Camping and night stay is very enjoyable at highlands during summer season. Some appropriate bases for trekking are as follows-Neel Top- While starting a trek from Neel top one can explore large number of astonishing places. The whole area of Pogal Paristan and some areas close to Kashmir valley can be visited easily.Moh-Mangith- These two places serve a base camp for many treks. A few of these treks help trekkers to reach Danew Kandimarg area of Kashmir valley. Bhaajkote- The trek from Bhaajkote passes through beautiful places such as Mudushera, Sarvadahar and ends at Pogal Paristan. Bhatni village- This village provides a campground for many trails. One such trail from Bhatni village passes through Shankpal top to reach Sanasar area of Patnitop. People and CultureThe most beautiful thing about Pahari speaking people is- They are straight forward cooperative people. With simple food and dress, they live prosperous life. Living in natural environs they are much dependent on natural resources. Throughout the year people gather necessary products (Jadi Booti) from forests that cure some common diseases. Like healthy environment their hearts are alive, full of warmth. Free from greed they don’t love worldly things. They are God fearing people and staunchly believe in salvation through prayers. With the melting of snow in upper reaches they shift along with their cattle to settle in Dhokhs, where they live in Kothas for few months. Mostly they use wild variety of vegetables that are found in abundance. The popular dish include a variety of things consumed together such as they take bread made of maize floor known as Makai Chot, along with vegetables and a special type of curd known as Gurus.Valuable suggestionsThe real beauty of district Ramban is found on the upper reaches of hill tops. Most tourist spots are unexplored and lack some basic facilities such as road connectivity, electricity, drinking water, lodges, hotels and cafes. There is a need to gear up developmental programme in these unexplored locations so that it can benefit local people by creating a number of jobs. Besides tourism government must think how to uplift the downtrodden people living on mountain slopes. To eradicate poverty from the region it is necessary to exploit these beauty spots at maximum for the common good of people. With the huge inflow of tourists the local art and crafts will flourish as well. The government should endorse distinct culture of people by promoting local language and literature, music and dance, fairs and festivals, folk dances, etc.

                                                                                                                                                          Bio LineSyed Aamir Sharief Qadri is from J&K. He has completed post-graduation in History from the University of Kashmir and obtained an M.Phil. at Punjabi University Patiala. He also qualified JKSET in 2016.  Currently, he works as a freelance writer for different newspapers as a guest writer. His articles got published in many leading newspapers .

Halt and Breathe

Parthita Dutta
Halt! breathe out and in

Bridge and sync with the origin!

Relax the limbs now Like vane from the stem

Of a lithe feather

To travel the unknown gateway

Opening the gamut of grass 

To the galactic gleam, discover

Your predefined path therein

And watch how 

The locus of lustrous life

Forms a constellation in the sky.

Copyright Reserved- Parthita Dutta ©

About Author BIO- DATA
Parthita Dutta, born in Kolkata, India, currently living in Poland. She is an engineer and aspiring bilingual writer , having keen interest in science, scriptures and literature. She writes different genres of poetry, exabits philosophical tone and spreads love, humanity and spirituality.

A SUICIDE NOTE OF AN ANONYMOUS WRITER

Fiction written by Syed Mustafa Ahmad My dear nears and dears, I hope you are doing good. But I am not doing good. Being unwell, I am writing this suicide note for every one, who has time to read. Well, it is a fact that life is a sweet gift from Allah. Serving one’s Creator is the best deed in the whole world. However, as Ghalib said that knowing truth and every kind of virtue, my heart does not incline towards these. Same is the case with me. More or less, I know that the nature of life is that it must be lived according to the wishes of Allah. But I am fed up with this drama. I need escape. For me, it is quite difficult to carry it on. I have reasons to end my life. And with a heavy heart, I will discuss some causes in the following lines.       First is unemployment. I have no job to have the monetary security. As it is a fact that without money, it is quite difficult to carry on. From religion to society, everything depends on money. In this way, I have decided to quit. I am happy in doing this. I have no regret in doing this.        Second is corruption. Having got distinctions in both tenth and 10+2 classes, I am not able to get a class fourth job. I want an orderly post. However, I think this is quite far from my reach. 92% in 10+2 means that I must get the class fourth job but due to corruption, I can never dream of it. Incompetent students or candidates over the meritorious candidates. So, in this atmosphere, I quit.       Third is my hardworking parents. Well, it is a fact that every parent has to work hard in order to sustain their children as well as themselves. But it makes no sense when the hard work doesn’t have the near end. Grey colour of my father’s hair and the crooked fingers of my mother force me to quit. I know my death  will hurt my parents a lot. But seeing them in this situation, is hurting me more than ending my life. If I cannot provide them happiness now, I think I can never provide them. I am not a pessimistic but being an optimistic in the present situation, is to live in a fool’s paradise.       Fourth is Covid-19. I was working in a private school for a meagre salary. However, Covid-19 has acted as the last nail in the coffin of my gloomy life. Earning 4,000 rupees a month, meant a lot for me. I would purchase books, magazines, newspapers, etc., for further studies but all my dreams were shattered on the floor when I was awakened from the deep slumber of dreams by Covid-9. At the present, I am good for nothing.       Fifth is religion. It teaches morality. But on the ground level, immorality rules. For me, religion is an opium. It has been created in order to fulfil wishes and interests of a dominant group, without bothering for other groups. I have seen religion as a source of misery. Even though I believe in God, but the never-ending miseries have forced me to opt for escapism.       Sixth and last is sweet death. For me, death is a thing to be embraced tightly. I am uncomfortable at the present because I cannot bear separation from death. Death will enable me to bring a full stop to all those things that have been haunting me day in and day out.        At the end the day, I again repeat that I have no hesitation in ending my life. I beg forgiveness from everyone who had been hurt by me in any way. I don’t owe anything to anyone. My body is a gift from Allah and I am going to Him. However, without obeying Him in letter and spirit. I am sorry, my nears and dears! Good bye! Note: This a fictitious story, written in response to the present situation in Jammu and Kashmir. 
By: Syed Mustafa Ahmad

                        Covid 19 and middle class families.

Suhaib Ashraf Bhat.
Volcanoes and earthquakes, tornadoes and firesCan rip off possessions and precious desires.A terrorist’s bomb or a cyclone or floodCan nip hopeful plans and sweet dreams in the bud.
The same goes for accidents, war and disease:They halt us from doing the things that we please.A cancer, a heart attack, coma or strokeReduces an unfinished job to a joke.
Both nature’s disasters and sickness that killsOr deadly encounters with devilish willsForewarn of the parting of spirit from dust,When time grimly reaps what we guarded in trust.
Our losses foreshadow the final one: death.And yet we were built to hold on to the breathBestowed at our birth with a will to survive.We have to believe Heaven wants us alive!
This instinct—survival—innately informsOur hearts to fight on in the battles and storms,To press through the setbacks, the struggles, the strife,Priority set on the treasure called “life.”
What now is instinctive foreshadows a goal,An eternal journey awaiting the soul.It points to a future that we cannot seeBeyond the destruction we zealously flee.
These troubles foreshadowing death must be met.Yet as they play out, let no pilgrim forgetThat God the Creator-Preserver is Love….Fear’s shadows will fade in faith’s glory above!
( David L. Hatton)
Poverty is one of the calamities that Allah swt has decreed should happen, either to a specific person or a family or a society. Poverty has negative effects on people’s beliefs and conduct. Immoral behaviour becomes widespread to a large extent because of poverty, as a means of meeting people’s needs, so theft, murder, zina and sale of haraam things become widespread. Undoubtedly these things have a negative effect on individuals and societies. Allah swt tells us that some of the mushrikeen used to kill their children, the apples of their eyes, either because of the poverty in which they were living or for fear of poverty that might befall them. Allah swt says of the first case (interpretation of the meaning): “kill not your children because of poverty — We provide sustenance for you and for them” [al-An’aam 6:151]And He says of the second case (interpretation of the meaning): “And kill not your children for fear of poverty. We shall provide for them as well as for you. Surely, the killing of them is a great sin” [al-Isra’ 17:31]In al-Saheehayan there is narrated the story of a woman of the Children of Israel who, when she needed money and felt under pressure, she could not find anyone but her paternal cousin who wanted to have his way with her in return for giving her money. Then Allah swt saved her from that after she reminded him of Allah swt and told him to fear Him. Whatever the case, it is well known that poverty leads to crimes and corruption. Many nations suffer from it and are looking for solutions to this problem, but to no avail, and there is no solution except in Islam, which brought rulings for all people until the Hour begins. There are the three points which will surely be helpful only if its implemented.1: Teaching people to believe truly that provision comes from Allah swt and that He is the Provider (al-Razzaaq), and every calamity that Allah swt decrees is for a reason, and that the poor Muslim should be patient in bearing his calamity and strive to relieve himself and his family of poverty.2: Seeking refuge with Allah swt from poverty. The Sunnah relates to us what the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) used to do and what he taught his ummah to do, which is seeking refuge with Allah swt from poverty, because of the effect that it has on a person, his family and his society.   3: Encouragement to help the needy and support the weak. The one who really deserves. It was narrated that al-Nu’maan ibn Basheer said: The Messenger of Allah swt Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah swt be upon him) said: “The likeness of the believers in their mutual love, mercy and compassion is that of the body; when one part of it is in pain, the rest of the body joins it in restlessness and fever.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5665) and Muslim (2586). 
Before understanding the problems of middle-class family we should first understand what is a middle-class family.A middle-class family is a social group that consists of ordinary people who usually have good jobs and are neither rich nor very poor. The whole world is suffering from Coronavirus Pandemic and during this Pandemic we can see rich class are busy in learning new skills and hobbies while the poor class is suffering for life and death and both the rich and the poor class is getting attention. But there’s an another class of which nobody talks and care about. When all is shut and all is dwindling at an unprecedented pace it is necessary to evaluate our situation. Enormous government schemes, all lined up at the time of Covid-19 range from feeding the poor to the old. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package, relief package aims at feeding the poor with essential food supplies, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee and National Rural Livelihood Mission on the other hand, each target on transferring small amounts to the bank accounts of the below poverty families. Apart from these we have farmers being front-loaded and paid under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Yojna to widows, single women account holders and the Divyang category being paid substantively under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package. Thus, each provide for the rural sector to get an upward push amidst this financial stoop. We all know how badly people are being affected during and after lockdown.The economy is shrinking at a great rate. The government took a number of measures to ensure the least number of casualties in this pandemic and also that lower class and people with no jobs should have food and shelter. The upper class already had proper facilities and is still going well. However, the future still holds bleak for, a middle class. A middle-class person is a self-respecting person. They do not dare to ask for food and essential things from anyone. Whatever resources they have, they always live their lives. They never ask for too much but the amount in which they can live and fulfill their small dreams. They are busy solving their big problems and enjoying their small happy moments. Those who have to pay monthly rent, those who are working in a private company and are not getting salary or are getting less salary than their expenses, are the ones facing some major issues. Whatever happens, the middle class is always left behind. 
Conclusion: The Muslim knows that poverty and richness, and whether things are given to one or withheld, are all subject to the decree of Allah swt. So he bears hardships with patience when they come, and he thanks Allah swt, may He be exalted, for good times when he finds them. But he is required to work and seek to earn a living so as to relieve himself and his family of poverty. But if someone is unable to do that because of health reasons or problems in his land, then Islam relieves him of poverty by means of zakaah and charity that are given by the rich. This is the share of their wealth that the poor are entitled to. 

The writer can be reached at  suhaibbhatt85@gmail.com

Covid-19 is back again, so what do we learn from it?
Suhaib Ashraf Bhat.
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), is a contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. The disease has since spread worldwide, leading to an ongoing pandemic. From december 2019 till date what have we learned? 
The answer is in one line, “no sadness goes on and no joy lasts forever”.
The things that cross our minds and make us feel distressed are things in the past that have caused grief, things in the future that we are worried about, and things in the present which concern us. People react differently to stress and worries, depending on how many things are concerning them, whether the worry is continuous or not, and on whether they have faith in their hearts or are rebellious and sinful. We may describe people’s hearts as being of two types: either the heart is the throne of Allah swt, filled with light, life, happiness, joy and all the treasures of goodness; or it is the throne of the Shaytaan, wherein is distress, darkness, death, grief, worry and anxiety. People’s worries and concerns also differ, according to the differences in their motivations, circumstances and individual responsibilities.
The believer knows that this world is fleeting, its luxuries few, and that whatever pleasures exist in it are always imperfect. If it causes a little laughter, it gives many reasons to weep; if it gives a little, it withholds far more. The believer is merely being detained here, as the Messenger of Allah swt Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah swt be upon him), said: “This world is the prison of the believer and the Paradise of the Kaafir [disbeliever].” This world is also fatigue, pain, misery and suffering, so the believer feels relief when he departs from it. Abu Qataadah ibn Rib’i al-Ansaari, (may Allah swt be pleased with him) used to say that a funeral passed the Messenger of Allah swt Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah swt be upon him), and he said: “He is now relieved, and people feel relieved of him.” The people asked: “O Messenger of Allah swt Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah swt be upon him), how can he be relieved and people feel relieved of him?” He said: “The believing slave [who dies] is relieved of the fatigue and pain of this world and has gone to the mercy of Allah swt; when the rebellious slave dies, people, land, trees and animals are relieved of him.” For the believer, death brings a respite from the distress, worries and pain of this life, as is stated in the Hadeeth: “When the believer is about to die, the angels of mercy bring white silk and say: ‘Come out content, with the pleasure of Allah swt upon you, to the mercy of Allah swt and sweet fragrance and a Lord who is not angry.’ So [the soul] comes out like the best fragrance of musk and the angels hand it to one another until they bring it to the gate of heaven. They say: ‘How good is this fragrance that has come from the earth!’ They bring it to the souls of the believers, and they rejoice over it much more than you do when one who has been absent returns. They ask him: ‘What did so-and-so do? What did so-and-so do?’ then (the angels) say: ‘Leave him alone, for he was suffering the distress of the world.’ When he asks: ‘Did not so-and-so come to you?’ They say: ‘He was taken to his home in the Pit [i.e. Hell].’ When the Kaafir is about to die, angels of punishment bring sackcloth and say: ‘Come out discontent, with the wrath of Allah swt upon you, to the punishment of Allah swt.’ So [the soul] comes out like the worst stench of rotten meat, and they take it to the gate of the earth. They say: ‘How foul is this stench,’ until they bring it to the souls of the disbelievers.” This understanding of the reality of this world makes it easier for the believer to bear afflictions, pains, distress and anxiety; because he knows that they are an inevitable part of the nature of this life.
In the event of a calamity or epidemic, the remedy is to repent to Allah swt, may He be exalted, and humble oneself before Him and beseech Him, and to right any wrongs that have been done, and also to seek forgiveness a great deal, glorify Allah swt a great deal, send blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah swt be upon him), ask Allah swt for well-being, and take measures to protect oneself and treat sickness, such as quarantine, and vaccinations and medical treatment if they are available.
With regard to taking measures such as quarantine and seeking medical treatment, this is indicated by the teachings and practice of our Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah swt be upon him), as he instructed us to seek medical treatment, and highlighted the importance of taking precautions against infection; he instructed us not to put sick camels with healthy camels, and not to travel to a land where a plague is occurring.The Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah swt be upon him) said: “Seek medical treatment, for Allah swt, may He be glorified and exalted, has not created any disease but He has also created a remedy for it, except for one disease: old age.” narrated by Ahmad (17726) and the authors of as-Sunan, Abu Dawood (3855), at-Tirmidhi (2038), and Ibn Maajah (3436). Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood.And the Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah swt be upon him) said: “Whoever eats seven ‘ajwah dates in the morning, will not be harmed by any poison or witchcraft that day.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5769) and Muslim (2057).Al-Bukhaari (5771) and Muslim (2221) narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allah swt be pleased with him) said: The Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah swt be upon him) said: “No sick camel should be put with a healthy one.”And the Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah swt be upon him) said: “If you hear of the plague in some land, do not enter it, and if it occurs in a land where you are, do not leave it.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5728) and Muslim (2218).
Allah swt, may He be exalted, says (interpretation of the meaning):“And We have already sent [messengers] to nations before you, [O Muhammad]; then We seized them with poverty and hardship that perhaps they might humble themselves [to Us]. Then why, when Our punishment came to them, did they not humble themselves? But their hearts became hardened, and Satan made attractive to them that which they were doing” [al-An‘aam 6:42-43].
Ibn Katheer (may Allah swt have mercy on him) said in his Tafseer (3/256):“And We have already sent [messengers] to nations before you, [O Muhammad]; then We seized them with poverty” that is, impoverishment and destitution “and hardship” – this refers to disease, sickness and pain“that perhaps they might humble themselves [to Us]” that is, that they might call upon Allah swt, humble themselves before Him, and fear Him.
Allah swt, may He be exalted, says: “Then why, when Our punishment came to them, did they not humble themselves?” That is, why, when We tested them with that, did they not beseech Us and show humility before Us?“But their hearts became hardened” and never softened and became humble“and Satan made attractive to them that which they were doing” namely shirk (associating others with Allah) and committing sins. End quote.Allah swt, may He be exalted, says (interpretation of the meaning):“Do they not see that they are tried every year once or twice but then they do not repent nor do they remember?” [at-Tawbah 9:126].
Calamities only come down because of sin, and cannot be removed except by repentance, as al-‘Abbaas (may Allah swt be pleased with him) said in his du‘aa’ when he prayed for rain (istisqaa’).Al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar (may Allah swt have mercy on him) said in al-Fath (2/497): az-Zubayr ibn Bakkaar described in al-Ansaab the du‘aa’ (supplication) that al-‘Abbaas offered during this event and the time during which it occurred. He narrated, with his isnaad (chain of narrators) that when ‘Umar (may Allah swt be pleased with him) prayed for rain by virtue of the supplication of al-‘Abbaas, he said: O Allah, no calamity comes down except because of sin and it cannot be removed except by means of repentance. End quote.
With regard to seeking forgiveness: it is a means of attaining good health, strength and well-being.
Allah swt, may He be glorified and exalted, says (interpretation of the meaning):“And [saying], Seek forgiveness of your Lord and repent to Him, [and] He will let you enjoy a good provision for a specified term and give every doer of favor his favor” [Hood 11:3]
“And O my people, ask forgiveness of your Lord and then repent to Him. He will send [rain from] the sky upon you in showers and increase you in strength [added] to your strength. And do not turn away, [being] criminals” [Hood 11:52].
May Allah swt relieve us of this calamity and epidemic.
Suhaibbhatt85@gmail.com