Examination season has come, opinion 22 January,2024 issue

Posted on by Editor
Examination Season has come
Vijay GarG
It is often seen that when the exams are about to start, students face a lot of problems in preparing the syllabus completely. This problem comes especially to those children who do not study anything throughout the year. Then they search the internet for answers to questions like how to prepare for papers in one or months. There are many children who start studying when they feel that there is no other option but to study. This is completely wrong because so much It cannot be completed in a few days due to the large syllabus. Therefore, one should keep preparing for whatever is conducted in the class throughout the year so that there is no trouble in the papers. Never assume that you will read near the papers. Well new year acts as an alarm for students to wake up kids, now your exams are near. Let’s know about the ways, by which you can study more in less time. Make a schedule and read.
The most important thing to keep in mind The only thing that happens is the schedule. Time table is the easy way. which helps you to use the time to study properly. Here it is important that every student should make his own personal schedule. If possible, it should be pasted on the wall in your room. The schedule should be such that your personal responsibilities can also be accommodated and you don’t have any problem in working accordingly. Whatever you do in your daily life. Prepare the schedule keeping that in mind. It is morning time appropriate All the materials you have available related to different subjects, keep them together in one place. After this you have to choose a time when you can concentrate only on studies. By the way, the morning time is the most suitable for reading because at that time what is read is remembered quickly, but whatever time you think is right and appropriate, give it priority.
Distance from social
There are some students who are not interested in studies at all. In today’s time, this The reason can be social websites, watching videos on mobile, online games etc. Therefore, it is important to create a conducive environment for learning. In such a situation, it is necessary to stay away from these social sites for some time and read in a peaceful environment. Family members should also not visit the child’s room frequently if he is studying. Relax for a few minutes while reading Breaks in between reading time are also important because you are not a robot who can read for hours without rest. According to experts, 45 minutes from reading a 10- 15 minute break is necessary afterwards.
If you do not understand some things even after repeated reading, then you can take the help of your teacher or classmate. While studying, don’t think that this subject is very difficult, I won’t be able to read t, so leave it, but study with our heart to get good narks. Ask yourself the question instead of memorizing any lesson, try to understand it, so that it does not leave your mind. Never read while. Lying down because that way you will read less and sleep. Repeat instead of ending new in the last days Pay attention to the e. f any important information is found, write n your copy and underline t. Solve various model test papers. Ask yourself how hard you are working onwards the goal you want to Achieve it down for not, why so?
Take care of health Also take special care of your health during the papers. Stay away from any kind of stress. 7-8 hours of sleep is very important because with a tired body he mind is not interested in studying. Do not waste time on difficult questions in the exam. Which questions you well as hey come, do them first. Mentally prepare yourself what if something comes out of the syllabus in the paper, if you don’t remember what you have read then. Low to solve it instead of Janicking. Give more time o difficult subjects In school, you get equal time or every subject, whether out find it easy or difficult, But at home you can give more time to that subject, in which you think that you leed more effort in it. Sometimes it is seen that many children eat and drink when the exams are approaching. They also leave They should not do this at all as doing so can harm our health. If you fall ill when you will not be able to prepare well for the exams. Do not be afraid of exams. We should always understand he objective of the exam. Don’t be afraid of exams. If you study carefully when you can never fail and have good syllabus in less time. You can pass with good narks by preparing. Always remember one thing that the harder the struggle, the more glorious will be his victory.
Vijay GarG is Eetired Principal Educational columnist malout Punjab

Significant climate milestones of 2023

Posted on by Editor

Significant climate milestones of 2023

Vijay GarG

Vijay GarG Retired Principal Educational columnist malout Punjab
From registering the hottest summer on record to some significant steps at the yearly United Nations climate summit, 2023 was a year of extremes. Here are some climate-related milestones from this time.
Hottest year: The year is all but set to be declared the hottest in history. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), 2023 was 0.1°C warmer than the 10-month average for 2016, currently the warmest calendar year on record, and 1.43°C warmer than the pre-industrial reference period from January to October.
Highest sea surface temperature ever: Marine heat waves – periods when ocean temperatures are warmer than 90% of prior observations for a given time of year were widespread in 2023. According to the U.S. National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 48% of global oceans experienced them in August 2023. Global sea surface temperatures (SST) are usually highest in March. But per C3S data, global average SSTs remained at record highs throughout April, May, June, and July 2023.
Lowest Antarctic sea ice extent: Sea-ice extent is the area of ice covering the Antarctic Ocean at a given time. In 2023, Antarctic sea ice had record low ice growth from April. According to NOAA, sea ice in the Antarctic reached an annual maximum extent of 16.96 million sq. km on September 10, 2023, the lowest since 1979. This year’s maximum was 1.03 million sq. km, below the previous record low set in 1986.
Record carbon dioxide levels: Global carbon dioxide emissions are expected to have hit a new high in 2023, up 1.1% from 2022. The Global Carbon Budget Report, published in December 2023, said overall CO2 emissions, which climbed to a record last year, had plateaued in 2023 due to a slight drop in deforestation.
Loss and damage fund: The world’s first loss and damage fund for the impacts of climate change was created in 2023, at the start of the COP28 climate talks in the U.A.E. in early December. The fund will be based at the World Bank but managed by an independent secretariat. According to a senior U.N. official, it has received pledges of $792 million from governments, which is a lot but still well short of the billions required to fulfil its purpose.
Impact of food systems: For the first time in the history of climate summits, 134 countries at COP28 pledged to tackle the climate impact of the food industry. These countries represent over 5.7 billion people, 70% of the food we eat, nearly 500 million farmers, and 76% of total emissions from the global food system. But observers noted the declaration doesn’t include quantitative targets.
Vijay GarG Retired Principal Educational columnist malout  from my iPhone

Mind Management and artificial intelligence

Posted on by Editor
MIND MANAGEMENT AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
By
Vijay GarG
(Human mind is superior to any computer and artificial intelligence)
The human mind travels faster than any other object; the wise bard once proclaimed, “Mind is a part and parcel of human body, but while body resides here, where the mind resides, it is unknown”, it flees at a faster speed more than the thundering light, therefore controlling of human mind is most important exercise that the human being must adhere to manage it, who cherish success and happiest moment in their lives. To understand better the functions of various organs of the human body, human anatomy is there to be studied, but the practice of controlling the human mind is the most important lesson that every conscious and enlightened human must learn in time before it is too late. Mind controlling or management is a rigorous practice that can be achieved by various methods like spiritual healing process yoga practice, singing of glory of God, or various forms of physical exercises.
The entire creature and most importantly the human being when they are born are innocent, unenlightened, illiterate, or untrained, without an iota of knowledge of living. Gradually and slowly, they gain knowledge following their parents or society. They need, therefore, the training, and practice to learn the art of living and become good social beings in times. Domesticated animals are tamed and used for various purposes. Likewise, the human body, the various organs, and the mind must be dexterously trained and skillful to survive in life.
     The human mind is very sensitive and is attracted by the multifarious activities around the environment they live. Numerous pleasant and unpleasant, negative and positive incidents take place in day-to-day life. The human mind is moreover, attracted by negativism easily because it is easy to follow, but learning the traits of living needs hard endeavor, dedication, perseverance, and positive action. The human mind gathers information from the physical world and stores it just like the data memory in computers. As the programming and application data of the computers run, so the human mind functions, but the human mind is superior to any computer and artificial intelligence (AI), rather they are made by the human mind and out of discovery.
     There are three levels of the human mind which are categorized as sub-conscious, conscious, and super-conscious mind. The various data, statistics, and information are stored in the subconscious mind. All kinds of prejudice, physical information, etc. are directly related to the subconscious mind. The collected data and information received by the sub-conscious mind need to be filtered, modified, and edited before they are taken or used, so there is a need of conscious mind that must be enlightened enough to distinguish rights and wrongs, therefore; the conscious mind has the quality of storing and developing the useful, positive and motivating ideas and energy, the habit, behavior, etiquette, discipline and initiative are made and motivated by conscious mind in right direction, while the action taken out of subconscious mind in ignorance that leads the human often towards dark side of life.
     The developed and enlightened mind is conscious enough which is capable to accept the proactive, energizing, inspirational, and optimistic elements of the collected data and ignore or dump the negative objects like disposing of garbage.The human mind and intellectual self are, therefore, superior to any supercomputers or IA, because a developed human mind can think, edit, review, exam, monitor, make programming, etc. and AI and computers are also made out of the human brain and mind. Artificial Intelligence is therefore not an alien object, but the outcome of an enlightened human mind and intellect; it is for the use of assistance and facilities for human development.
    The conscious and enlightened mind therefore needs the proper use of physical materials like AI, computers, mobile phones, drones, or various scientific innovations and discoveries. A conscious human being is therefore conscious enough to strike the balance and utilities of various scientific tools, gadgets or AI. Human beings must not be slaves of such tools and machines, but they must be controlled by a conscious mind.
The entire world is full of miseries, suffering, agonies, natural calamities, sadness, and various odds in life. There are pains, deceits, misunderstandings, misconceptions, strides, tug of war, and wrestling in life, therefore, it is said that the physical world is an ocean of tragedy and misery; one must leave one day from this physical world. To undergo utter desperation, acute depression after loss, or over-optimism or pessimism is not the proper way of living. Weeping long for the loss or any kind of suffering till the last drop of tears is also not the solution to being safe from misery, it needs courage, the vibration of a positive mind, activities of positive thoughts, and positive action.
     Understanding the truth that life is full of sufferings and struggles, a conscious and enlightened mind is fully committed to be happy and act positively directed and inspired by wisdom and bliss. Napoleon Hill of the world best seller book, Growing Rich rightly depicted that a human being is a master and captain of his soul. The human mind is activated, vibrates, and includes fast due to various factors in which well-balanced physical marital relationships, music, singing and dancing, and various practices or poses of physical exercises are important in human life. Further, the auto-suggestion of positive thought processes as a daily practice in the morning and evening prayers are important spiritual practice as the author Norman Vincent Peale suggests. It is just like cleansing dirty particles from the cloth by watering and washing rigorously, As much as the dirty and worse behavior in the subconscious mind so the much the practice of healing by autosuggestion is needed. Auto-suggestion is taking out the garbage, the bad behavior, practice stored in their mind and replacing them with positive thoughts and inspirational events, and words so that people can change their unwanted behavior with positive thoughts, belief system, outlooks in life.
Shrimat Bhagawat Geeta, one of the best-sacred book of the world suggest;“safeguard one’s mind and soul from evil and never underestimate self or surrender before the evil, the mind, soul, and thought process itself is the friend or enemy of a human being. . Mind management therefore requires a lot of spiritual practices, devotions, and yoga practices followed by a lot of positive thoughts to combat the increasing number of vices and evils of this physical world. Only then, the world becomes paradise on earth. Every individual prospers and move forward if first and foremost they go through the well-defined and broad-based practice of mind management abstaining from the slavery of modern technology like mobile phone, AI, etc., and practice the art of living by genuine teachers The world is full of happiness and paradise to those who know the truth of natural process like birth and death, youthfulness and old age and control the mind safeguarding the evil aggression like jealousy, blasphemy, discrimination, bias consideration, prejudice, and unhealthy competition and race for earning money, glory and accumulating wealth and power
Vijay GarG is Retired Principal Educational columnist Malout Punjab

Call Me by My Name

Posted on by Editor

Call Me by My Name
How the lack of sex education in India is impacting society
By Ankita Anand
Trigger warning: Rape, assault
In an Indian mini-series called Who’s Your Gynac, the doctor exhorts her patients to chuck euphemisms and say vagina and penis when referring to those body parts. A Hindi film, Oh My God 2, shows a father taking on the education system, the judiciary and the society at large for shying away from sex education. These examples, though, still remain the exception when it comes to accepting sex education as essential. While the conservative/religious views remain that marriage and reproduction are sacrosanct, even married couples face a lot of issues because they received zero, little or the wrong information about sex while growing up. Over ten such people in their thirties that Unbias the News spoke to confirmed that sex ed in their schools was absent or nervously glossed over.
“You probably already know from movies”
Reet Sharma* is a marketing consultant for American Fortune 500 companies and a mother of two. She recalled: “I distinctly remember my ninth-grade teacher [in India] skipping the human reproduction part of the book saying ‘no giggling and you probably already know from movies’. I did not know from movies.” Anya Vishwas*, an equity, diversity and inclusion manager in the UK with two kids, said: “I didn’t understand orgasms . . . And it did affect my sex life, of course.” Urmi Srinivasan*, a Bangalore based digital marketing strategist, turned to porn in her teenage to inform herself. Yet, she added,
“I did not know how condoms help prevent pregnancy until I was, say, 18. I don’t remember having such talks with anyone in the family who could help me learn about these things.”
But teachers who understand the importance of sex education also exist. Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) based Kati Cysarek, an educational psychologist and teacher-trainer who works for children with traumatic experiences, would teach about sex ed in the eighth grade as prescribed in the government curriculum. The task of sex education is not easy, admitted Kati, because it has to be culturally appropriate, and language wise it is tough. She had a hard time finding words in Hindi that weren’t either obtuse or abusive. But she kept working on her aim of “normalising bodies” and making her students understand that “we [men and women] are basically equal. I wanted them to learn that our bodies are not a matter of shame.” While some of these discussions were held separately, many were held in a common space for all genders. The result of all these efforts was that the sexual harassment of girls there stopped.
Union of equals or forced submission?
Soon the women in the school also started approaching Kati for advice. A teacher who had married a man of her choice was horrified when he came and sat on her bed after their wedding. “I did not know he was such a terrible person,” the horror-struck newlywed reported, though the groom had only approached her to talk.
In other cases, Kati’s married colleagues had to face what can only be termed as rape and coercion, after having fought off their husbands’ advances for weeks.
To one woman, her spouse had shown videos of rape and told her sex was supposed to happen in that manner. The man assaulted his wife several times till she finally divorced him.
After Kati’s wedding day, her colleagues were extremely sympathetic towards her for what she must have “suffered”. When Kati insisted that sex did not always have to be painful, they concluded that white women probably have different bodies. Ultimately Kati started a kind of communication therapy, which she called “the most important thing for a couple”.
Dr Ankeeta Menona Jacob, associate professor with the department of community medicine in K.S. Hegde Medical Academy in Mangalore, Karnataka, also stressed on the need for pre-marital counselling: “In some religions, people are taught about these things. I don’t know how much the couples understand but at least they get some idea.” Otherwise, she lamented, couples have an “inability to talk about their sexuality or their desire to have sex. It is seen as something you do before going to bed with the lights off.”
Know thyself
This lack of knowledge even in married people is also something Aisha George noticed in her work. Aisha works with Hidden Pockets Collective, a non-profit “using various forms of digital tools to educate young people and advocate for policy changes around sexual and reproductive health, rights and justice.” Her frustration was: “Women did not know what was happening in their bodies. There should be a language to talk to them. Medical terms are complex and doctors are busy.”
There is an assumption that people with high, formal education would know more. But amongst the women who got in touch with Hidden Pockets, only about 15 percent had some knowledge about their own bodies. Aisha shared:
“Even married women assume that they can get pregnant anytime of the year if they are having sex. They do not know about ovulation.”
The taboo around education on sex, sexuality and reproduction has also led to women dissociating with their own bodies. Hidden Pockets found that when doctors asked women about the colour of their vaginal discharge or menstrual blood women did not know because they did not like to notice: “When it comes to something out of the vagina, it feels awkward and scary to women.”
Challenges in accessing information
Organisations like Hidden Pockets might do their best to spread awareness. But the access route to this information is also full of hurdles.
For couples staying in joint families, even going out to get the information is hard as they are not comfortable telling their parents about it. Even with pregnant women, often the husbands or mothers-in-law query the doctors, and women stay silent.
To know about medical termination of pregnancies, young men would approach the organisation with questions. But it would be difficult to give specific answers without having complete information from the woman herself.
A small number of these men also had questions about how to keep their partners “happy”. Some asked about how they can help their partners through their abortions. “But they never ask about contraception,” Aisha fretted.
A little knowledge is a dangerous thing
But amongst those who approach Gytree, a women’s health and wellness platform, a greater number of male partners are willing to talk about sex related issues. They bring up a range of challenges from fertility to intimacy taking a backseat in the relationship. Swarnima Bhattacharya, Gytree’s co-founder, attributes these issues to a lack of sex education: “I am speaking of educated, well-to-do people who travel internationally. They can’t believe that something like vaginismus exists.
‘If there’s love, how can sex not happen,’ they ask. They feel these issues are not Indian, and happen only in the West.
I have had to tell people, ‘When other organs have problems, you accept it. So why this stigma around sexual organs?'”
On the other hand, men also have difficulty accepting women’s sexual desires as being natural. Swarnima shared, “Two to three men said, ‘It makes me wonder about her [sexual] history.’ Other men were even violent to women who articulated their desires or initiated sex.
Since many men are opposed to using protection or contraceptives, again because of the myth that these things adversely impact “male sexual prowess”, the entire burden of sexual safety and avoiding unwanted pregnancies fall on women. When, because of it being a taboo subject, women cannot discuss this with their partners, let alone doctors, they are the ones to suffer the most. Hidden Pockets has experience with women who wanted to learn about contraception and had similar, uncooperative partners. When these women use contraception without their partners’ knowledge, they also have to live under the constant threat of being discovered and the subsequent violence they might suffer at the hands of the husbands and their families for taking a decision about their own bodies.
Women and pain
That’s why when early on in her career Swarnima met women with injuries it made her wonder if they were trying to hide assault: “But actually some of these were accidental injuries because of ignorance.
There are women who have given birth but never had painless sex.”
Swarnima also met women with endometriosis who had to suffer painful penetrative sex. The doctors they met also focused on solving the problem for the sake of fertility, instead of seeing the alleviation of pain as the primary and urgent goal.
This does not help especially when women have a tendency to be guilty and shameful of such problems, and have been conditioned to minimise or dismiss their pain.
Ruptured relationships
A trust deficit in couples interrupts intimacy. There is also no understanding of how intimacy can exist without sex as well. Plus in India, Swarnima said, “There is a desexualisation of married couples. They are seen only as sanitised family builders. Then there are phases when one might go without sex for various reasons. At such times, partners should be helping each other in their journeys.”
But where basic sex education is missing such nuanced education of each other as sexual beings hardly happens. The Gytree founder mentioned the rise of apps coming up for dating for married people, and the survey conducted by these companies showed sexual void and discontent in married relationships as a common feature. Despite that, says Swarnima, “The language around compatibility still does not include sex.”
When no one is watching
It is not like everyone is relying on porn and quacks to get their sexual concerns addressed. Swarnima mentioned that of the two companies she knows of working on sexual health, one has closed down and one is active. That one targeted men and women in its advertising, and 94 percent of their business ended up coming from men.
The problem is in the world of startups, if you’re a sexual health one you’re seen as perverted. There are advertising restrictions, and pages get banned. Google searches flag the businesses. Slowly these companies are trying to change the language they use so that the information they provide can still be accessed by people without the pages getting blocked by platforms.
Earlier such startups struggled with getting likes and comments. Now they have a metric of “secret engagement”, wherein people do not like the post because they don’t want to be seen engaging with such content. But they save these posts. Companies have now started seeing this as an accepted metric of growth.
Mend the gap
To mend the gap of sexual education in India, the experts interviewed for this article suggested several measures. The public messaging around health in India has grown more accurate. The same needs to happen around sexual health, which should not cover only reproduction. Gytree gave the example of Africa where some sexual health campaigns started with talking about rape because that topic was considered acceptable. Similarly if there is resistance in India to a discussion on sexual awareness, first an entry point has to be found. Discussions around menstruation have become more widespread than they were a few years ago. Kati Cysarek mentioned how she used comics like Menstrupedia to educate her students. Hidden Pockets noticed that contraception and abortion are subjects their audiences were relatively open to hearing about.
Some workshops might be organised separately for different genders. But many of these discussions need to happen with everyone together so that the shame and stigma around sex being publicly unmentionable reduces. These presentations must be clear and specific, and the audience should not be infantilised. If videos are shown with words bleeped out, the subliminal messaging is still one of shame.
There is a need for strong political will to implement many of these campaigns. A strong awareness of sexual health needs to be seen by governments as a life skill, something that is a part of physical and mental health, and can help prevent violence and abuse.
When there is talk of women’s health, the central point should not be only on fertility but on their sexual health too, which includes education on consent and bodily autonomy. Counsellors and therapists need to be trauma informed, and queer inclusive. For those not comfortable with talk therapy, art therapy can help. For awareness campaigns as well, Hidden Pockets used creative methods including podcasts where people shared real life experiences, and songs in the local languages. Going to schools for them still remains the toughest challenge as they have to hear things like “children are here to study” and “this is not part of our culture”. It would take time for the education system to realise that they cannot hope to have mature, well educated adults who do not cause harm to themselves or others if they bypass sex education.
First published in Unbias the News.
*Names have been changed to protect identities.
READ OTHER STORIES ON SEXUAL EDUCATION FROM AROUND THE WORLD
This article is part of The Talk, a series of stories, each produced by a different newsroom or team, painting a picture of the state of sex education around the world. During the month of October 2023, stories were published by Unbias the News, NADJA Media, CNN As Equals, Impact Newsletter, and Suno India. Kontinentalist and BehanBox will also be publishing reports.

 

 

 

Ah Ghulam Nabi Khyal, opinion 6 November, 2023

Posted on by Editor

 

Ah Ghulam Nabi Khyal
Tribute by Rameez Bhat
( The writer can be reached at

 

ramizspeaks77@gmail.com)

On Sunday October 15, 2023, we lost the outstanding writer of Kashmiri literature Ghulam Nabi Khyal Sahib a Sahitya Akademi award-winning journalist. Ghulam Nabi Khayal, a prominent figure in both literature and journalism, passed away at his home in Rawalpora, Srinagar on a Sunday morning at the age of 85.

 

Khayal initiated his career as a radio news reader in Radio Kashmir during the 1950s. He later contributed to numerous prominent news organisations in India, including the Illustrated Weekly of India, India Today, The Associated Press, and various radio stations, including the Voice of America. Khayal was a prolific writer, with a portfolio of over 30 books in Kashmiri, English, and Urdu. His notable works encompass ‘Gashik Minaar’ (Luminaries), which earned him the Sahitya Akademi award in 1975, and his Kashmiri translation of the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. In 2015, he returned his Sahitya Akademi award in protest against the mistreatment of minorities in India.

Ghulam Nabi Khayal was a well-known Kashmiri writer and journalist who made significant contributions to both Kashmiri literature and journalism. His writings primarily revolved around the culture, traditions, and social issues of Kashmir. Khayal was recognized for his ability to capture the essence of Kashmiri life and its rich cultural heritage in his literary works. Additionally, his journalistic career played a pivotal role in promoting Kashmir’s culture and heritage.

He also devoted five years of service to the Culture Academy, where he held various positions, including editor, chief editor, and correspondent for numerous national and international publications, including notable ones such as The Mahaz, The Kong Posh, and The Watan.

Khayal’s commitment to the preservation and promotion of the Kashmiri language and literature was highly commendable. His legacy is celebrated in the context of Kashmiri culture and literature. He’s known as the advocate of the Kashmiri language and the preservation of the region’s rich heritage.

He used his works to shed light on the complexities of Kashmiri society, including its traditions and folklore.

As a journalist, he was known for offering insightful reporting and commentary on local and regional issues. Through his work, he provided a platform for the voices of the Kashmiri people and drew attention to the region’s unique cultural and social aspects. Ghulam Nabi Khayal’s influence extended to both the literary and journalistic circles in the region. His legacy continues to inspire writers, journalists, and enthusiasts of Kashmiri culture, as his work remains a valuable source for understanding the multifaceted nature of Kashmir and its people.

During his prolific career as a Kashmiri writer, Ghulam Nabi Khayal authored several books. While an exhaustive list of his works isn’t available, some of his notable publications include “Gulrang,” a collection of short stories, “Kashmiri Natak,” a book on Kashmiri theater, “Tsol Ta Thal” and “Buch,” which are collections of essays, and “Shahrar,” a collection of humorous writings. These works have significantly impacted Kashmiri literature and continue to be cherished by readers interested in the rich cultural and literary heritage of Kashmir.

Comprehensively Ghulam Nabi Khayal’s career made a lasting impact on Kashmiri literature, journalism, and the preservation of Kashmiri culture, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s cultural and literary landscape.

May the departed soul be granted eternal peace by Almighty Allah!

 

Pre and post-handicraft sector in J&K               LG’s Contribution to Industry Growth

Posted on by Editor
Pre and post-handicraft sector in J&K
              LG’s Contribution to Industry Growth
Farheen Wani
farheenwani47@gmail. Com
 Jammu and Kashmir is famous throughout the world for its scenic beauty, bracing climate, and craftsmanship skills. It was during the reign of Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin, popularly known as Budshash or the great king who ruled Kashmir from 1420-70 AD that handicrafts were introduced in Kashmir. The kingZain-ul-Abidin hired skilled craftsmen from Central Asia to train local inhabitants in a number of handicrafts which were till then altogether unknown to the people of the state. Since then craft legacies continued and got encouragement and patronage from different rulers, princes, and visitors to the valley, thus skills passing on from generation to generation. Jammu & Kashmir has a comparative advantage in producing high quality and world-famous fabrics of Pashmina and Kani shawls, silken, woolen, and cotton fabrics and crafts like paper-mache, woodwork, Tila work, Sozni, Crewel, etc. These products are famous the world over because of their unique craftsmanship. Handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir present a fascinating spectrum of creative imagination and design that is intimately woven into the life patterns of its people. The agility of local artisans coupled with their artistic imagination reflected through a wide range of products has delighted people the world over for centuries. The J&K Handicrafts Department plays a vital role in promoting handicrafts products in rural as well as urban areas by providing financial and technical assistance to unemployed youth and artisans of the state for setting up micro and small units in industrial sectors under various schemes.
  The handicraft sector occupies an important position in the economic structure of J&K state. Being eco-friendly, this sector suits the state as it is more labour-intensive and less capital-intensive in nature, therefore, having scope for employment generation at a large scale. J&K handicraft products are worldwide famous for their attractive designs, functional utility, and high-quality craftsmanship. In the absence of large-scale industries in the UT, handicrafts remained a key economic activity from times immemorial. Crafts like shawls, crewels, namdha, chain stitch, wood carving, costume jewelry, kani shawls, paper machines, and carpets hold a significant share in the overall production and export of the state. Silken carpets in particular constitute a specialty having no parallel in quality and design at the national level and therefore, it occupies an important position in the international market.
Handicrafts refer to remarkable, skill-based creations that are made primarily by hand, reflecting the artistic traditions, cultural heritage, and craftsmanship of a particular region or community. These creations can include textiles, pottery, jewelry, woodwork, metalwork, and various other art forms.
 The reasons why the handicraft industry faced challenges leading up to the G20:
 Industrialization and mass production: With the rise of industrialization, the economy shifted towards mass production, which affected the demand for handicrafts. Factories and machines were capable of producing goods on a larger scale, often leading to lower costs and increased convenience for consumers. This shift, in turn, affected the market for handmade crafts.
Globalization and changing consumer preferences: The advent of globalization led to increased exposure to different cultures and products from around the world. As a result, consumer preferences started to favor mass-produced, machine-made items, rather than unique handicrafts. The shift in consumer behaviour played a significant role in the decline of the handicraft industry.
 Lack of infrastructure and resources: Many artisans and craftsmen lacked access to modern infrastructure, including reliable supply chains, efficient transportation, and proper marketing channels. Without these essential resources, it became challenging for handicraft producers to compete in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Economic challenges and poverty: Handicrafts are often produced in developing countries or regions with economic challenges. As poverty rates increased, people prioritized basic needs over purchasing luxury or non-essential items such as handicrafts. This resulted in decreased demand and sales for artisans.
Inadequate financial support and limited access to credit: Artisans, especially in less developed areas, often faced difficulties in accessing financial support or credit to expand their businesses or invest in equipment and materials. The lack of funds hindered their ability to improve the quality of their crafts or reach out to broader markets.
Limited exposure and marketing opportunities: Artisans and craftsmen often struggled to reach potential buyers due to limited exposure and marketing opportunities. Without proper platforms, it became challenging to showcase their unique products to a larger audience, further contributing to the decline of the industry.
Lack of government support: In certain cases, the handicraft sector suffered from inadequate government support. Insufficient policies, lack of training programs, limited investment, and a lack of protection against cheap imitations or plagiarism negatively impacted artisans’ livelihoods and the overall growth of the handicraft industry.
It is worth noting that these challenges vary in their magnitude and significance across different regions and countries. Additionally, some regions have successfully revived and revitalized their handicraft industries through proactive measures such as skill development programs, improved marketing strategies, and increased collaboration with designers and the tourism sector.
The decline of the handicraft industry before the G20 can be attributed to various factors including industrialization, globalization, changing consumer preferences, lack of infrastructure and resources, economic challenges, limited financial support, inadequate exposure and marketing, and insufficient government support. Understanding these challenges is crucial for formulating effective strategies to uplift and sustain the handicraft sector in the future.
As the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha has been actively involved in promoting and supporting the handicraft sector in the region. He recognizes the significance of handicrafts as a major cultural and economic asset for Jammu and Kashmir.
1. Skill Development Initiatives: Manoj Sinha has implemented various skill development programs to empower artisans and craftsmen. These initiatives aim to enhance their skills, provide them with technical knowledge, and promote innovation in traditional crafts. This helps in preserving the rich heritage of Jammu and Kashmir’s handicrafts while also equipping artisans with modern techniques.
2. Financial Assistance: The LG has facilitated financial assistance schemes, loans, and subsidies for handicraft artisans. These provisions enable them to set up their workshops, purchase raw materials, and upgrade their tools and infrastructure. Financial support plays a crucial role in sustaining the handicraft sector and improving the livelihoods of artisans.
3. Marketing and Promotion: Manoj Sinha emphasizes the need to market and promote Jammu and Kashmir handicrafts globally. Under his leadership, initiatives have been taken to participate in national and international trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets. These platforms provide exposure to artisans, allowing them to showcase their craftsmanship and connect with potential buyers and markets.
4. Infrastructure Development: The LG understands the importance of a robust infrastructure for the growth of the handicraft sector. He has focused on improving transportation facilities, establishing craft clusters, and upgrading existing infrastructure like artisan workshops and production units. Such developments facilitate smoother operations and enhance the overall productivity of the sector.
5. Revival and Revitalization: To revive and revitalize traditional handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha has initiated measures to document and preserve traditional techniques. This involves conducting research, organizing training programs, and creating awareness about endangered crafts. By undertaking these efforts, the LG ensures that traditional crafts are not lost and can be passed on to future generations.
Overall, Manoj Sinha’s efforts have significantly contributed to the growth and development of the handicraft sector in Jammu and Kashmir. By focusing on skill development, financial support, marketing, infrastructure, and revival of traditional crafts, he has contributed to empowering artisans, preserving cultural heritage, and creating sustainable livelihoods for the handicraft community.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the Handicraft and Handloom Exhibition at Kashmir Haat.
He inspected the stalls put up by the Artisans and women entrepreneurs of Self-Help Groups showcasing a variety of their creative products.
The Lt Governor appreciated the creativity and ingenuity of all the craftspeople and their dedicated service to preserve and promote the artistic heritage of Jammu Kashmir.
Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and senior officers were also present.
The G20, comprising the world’s major economies, has the potential to significantly contribute to the development and promotion of handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship, making it an ideal candidate for international recognition and support. In this article, we will explore how the G20 can uplift the handicraft sector in Jammu and Kashmir, unleashing its true potential and benefiting both artisans and the local economy.
1. Promoting Artisan Empowerment: One of the key objectives of the G20 could be to empower artisans in Jammu and Kashmir by providing them with the necessary skills, resources, and market access. This could be achieved through capacity-building programs, vocational training, and skill development initiatives, enabling artisans to enhance their craftsmanship and learn modern marketing techniques. By investing in artisan empowerment, the G20 can foster sustainable livelihoods and the preservation of traditional handicraft techniques.
2. Creating Market Linkages:The G20 can play a significant role in connecting Jammu and Kashmir artisans with global markets. This could be realized by organizing international trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets where artisans can showcase their creations. Additionally, the G20 countries can facilitate bilateral trade agreements, eliminate trade barriers, and streamline customs procedures to encourage the export of handicraft products. This enhanced market access would open new avenues for artisans, generating higher incomes and an increased demand for their products.
3. Encouraging Innovation and Design: In today’s competitive world, innovation and design play a crucial role in the success of any industry. The G20 can support Jammu and Kashmir artisans in embracing innovative techniques, and adopting modern designs while preserving traditional elements. This could be achieved through collaborations with international designers, providing design education and mentorship, and organizing design competitions that promote the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. By encouraging artisan-led innovation, the G20 would enable Jammu and Kashmir to produce unique and globally appealing handicrafts.
4. Strengthening Infrastructure: Efficient infrastructure is vital for the growth of any sector. The G20 can extend its support to Jammu and Kashmir by investing in the development of infrastructure facilities such as artisan clusters, craft villages, and dedicated craft hubs. These facilities can provide artisans with a conducive environment to work, collaborate, and learn from each other. Moreover, the G20 can assist in establishing quality testing and certification centers to ensure adherence to international standards, enabling Jammu and Kashmir handicrafts to enter global markets with confidence.
5. Providing Financial Assistance: Access to reasonable financing and financial resources can be difficult for craftsmen. The G20 can help craftsmen in Jammu and Kashmir by facilitating microfinance initiatives, grants, and loans, allowing them to invest in raw materials, tools, and equipment. Furthermore, the G20 countries might provide financial assistance to artisan cooperatives, allowing them to expand their operations, boost production capacity, and enter new markets. By resolving financial restrictions, the G20 can greatly increase the region’s handicraft sector’s growth and sustainability.
6. Fostering Cultural Exchange: The G20 can serve as a platform for promoting cultural exchange between Jammu and Kashmir artisans and their counterparts from other countries. This exchange can take the form of workshops, training programs, and residency programs, where artisans can learn from each other’s techniques, share experiences, and explore new artistic collaborations. Such cultural exchanges not only enrich the artisans’ skills but also provide them with exposure to international art forms and market trends.
The G20 has a fantastic potential to help the handicraft industry in Jammu & Kashmir. The G20 can unlock the actual potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s handicraft industry by empowering craftspeople, building market links, stimulating innovation, strengthening infrastructure, giving financial aid, and boosting cultural interchange. This would not only aid in the preservation of cultural history, but would also contribute to economic growth, job creation, and long-term development in the region.
The author is a journalist you can reach out to her at farheenwani47@gmail. Com.

Why Anxiety causes Chest Pain?

Posted on by Editor
Why Anxiety causes Chest pain?

Farheen wani
Anxiety is a complicated psychological phenomenon that impacts millions of individuals worldwide. One of the familiar physical symptoms associated with anxiety is chest pain. In this retort, we will delve into the intricate connection between anxiety and chest pain, analyzing the various aspects that contribute to this incident.
Chest pain is characterized by discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the chest region. It can vary from mild to painful and is often alarming for individuals who undergo it. Anxiety-induced chest pain can manifest in different ways, such as a dull ache, sharp pain, or a sense of tightness in the chest area.
Understanding the physiological facets of anxiety can shed light on why it causes chest pain. Anxiety triggers the dismissal of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, into the bloodstream. These hormones prepare the body for the “fight-or-flight” response, increasing heart rate, constricting blood vessels, and normally heightening vigilance.
The drastic surge of adrenaline can lead to several physical changes, including increased muscle tension. Muscles in the chest area may tighten as a defensive mechanism, as the body perceives a potential threat. This tension can contribute to the experience of chest pain among individuals with anxiety. Additionally, the heightened heart rate and blood flow can make sensations in the chest area more noticeable, further enriching the perception of pain.
Another factor that plays a role in anxiety-related chest pain is hyperventilation. During periods of anxiety, individuals tend to inhale and exhale rapidly and shallowly, often without even realizing it. This type of breathing, known as hyperventilation, can lead to an imbalance in carbon dioxide and oxygen levels in the body. This imbalance impacts the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, potentially resulting in chest discomfort.
Moreover, anxiety can cause exaggerated awareness of bodily sensations. Individuals with anxiety tend to be hyper-vigilant to physical cues, constantly scanning their bodies for any cues of danger. This heightened bodily awareness can intensify normal sensations, leading to an overinterpretation of normal bodily functions as chest pain.
It is also important to recognize the role of psychological factors in anxiety-related chest pain. Anxiety can be accompanied by catastrophic thinking, wherein individuals catastrophize and interpret physical sensations as signs of a life-threatening condition, such as a heart attack. This cognitive aspect can exacerbate the physical symptoms, making the chest pain feel more intense and terrifying.
Furthermore, the interplay between anxiety and existing medical conditions should be taken into account. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease or mitral valve prolapse, may experience chest pain that is both a result of anxiety and their underlying condition. In such cases, it is crucial to rule out any serious cardiac issues through medical evaluation.
To manage anxiety-induced chest pain, various strategies can be employed. First, addressing the underlying anxiety itself is crucial. This can be achieved through therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and reframe anxiety-provoking thoughts and behaviors. Additionally, relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce muscle tension and promote overall calmness.
Engaging in regular physical exercise can also be beneficial in managing anxiety and alleviating chest pain. Exercise not only helps release endorphins, which enhance mood, but also aids in maintaining cardiovascular health. Furthermore, ensuring a balanced lifestyle with healthy eating habits, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques can have a significant impact on anxiety levels and subsequently reduce chest pain.
Anxiety-induced chest pain can be a distressing symptom experienced by many individuals. Understanding the physiological, psychological, and cognitive aspects of anxiety is key in comprehending why anxiety causes chest pain. By addressing anxiety through therapy, relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and a holistic approach to self-care, it is possible to manage anxiety-related chest pain effectively and enhance overall well-being.
The writer is a journalist and you can reach to her farheenwani47@gmail.com

Harisa: A Culinary Bridge Between Kashmir and Persia

Posted on by Editor
  1. Harisa: A Culinary Bridge Between Kashmir and Persia

By Aubaid Akhoon  akhoon.aubaid@gmail.com

Kashmiri Harisa, a beloved winter delight, shares more than just its name with the famous South Iranian Harisa. This hearty dish, known for its thick pottage made of bruised wheat, meat, butter, cinnamon, and aromatic herbs, has a cultural and historical connection that transcends borders.

Culinary Connections
In South Iran, Harisa is still a celebrated mutton recipe today. It’s a culinary masterpiece where bruised wheat is meticulously boiled to the perfect consistency, and then enriched with meat, butter, cinnamon, and fragrant herbs. The artisans behind this dish are known as “Harisa-Paz” or “Harisa-Gar” in Persian-speaking regions.

The intriguing connection between Kashmiri Harisa and its South Iranian counterpart can be traced back to the historical and cultural exchanges facilitated by the Silk Road, which passed through Leh, connecting Persia with Kashmir. Persian-speaking traders, travelers, and rulers undoubtedly played a role in introducing this rich culinary tradition to the Kashmiri people, as they did with many other cultural and culinary customs.

A Glimpse into History
The first historical mention of Harisa can be found in Abu Muhammad Ibn Sayyar’s Arabic cookbook, Kitabul Tabik, Book of Cooking, dating back to the 10th century during the Alsafvid Caliphate of Islam. This dish, with variations in texture, ingredients, and taste, has found its place in the culinary traditions of the Middle East, South Asia, and other Muslim countries, often with slightly different names.

The Historical Roots of Harissa in Kashmir
The rich tapestry of Kashmiri cuisine is interwoven with the centuries-old tradition of savoring Harissa, a hearty winter breakfast dish that has stood the test of time. As the vibrant hues of autumn paint the landscapes of Kashmir, the allure of Harissa awakens, offering not just nourishment for the body but solace for the spirit.

Unlike the fiery pepper pastes of North Africa that share its name, Kashmiri Harissa is a distinct culinary gem, primarily savored in the heart of Srinagar. The city’s historical downtown areas come alive with scores of Harissa establishments, opening their doors around October and continuing to serve this winter delicacy until March. During the harsh winter months, Harissa assumes the role of an essential morning repast for the people of the valley.

The Origins of Harissa’s Journey
The journey of Harissa in Kashmir can be traced back to the 14th century, attributed to the influence of Mirza Hyder Duglat of Yarkand. However, some speculate that its roots extend even further to Central Asia, leaving an indelible mark on Kashmir’s customs, rituals, beliefs, and gastronomic culture. It wasn’t until the Afghan rule of Kashmir that Harissa took its present form and became an indispensable facet of Kashmiri cuisine.

The Artistry Behind Harissa
In the heart of Kashmir, Harissa is a dish that embodies tradition and craftsmanship. Traditionally prepared during the frigid winter, locally referred to as “chillai kalan,” it features mutton and rice flour, often accompanied by Kashmiri bread known as “girda.” The meticulous preparation process begins in the afternoon with the careful selection and chopping of the meat. Around 10 pm, the finely chopped lamb embarks on a slow-cooking journey in a colossal earthen pot.

Simultaneously, a porridge of rice, ideally made from short-grained Kashmiri rice, is meticulously crafted. The cooked rice gracefully melds with the meat, infused with a symphony of spices including fennel seeds, cinnamon, green and black cardamom, cloves, crisply fried Kashmiri shallots, and salt.

Around 1:00 am, the narrow-necked earthen pot is gently sealed, allowing the flavors to meld in harmony. The artisans behind Harissa then take a well-deserved break. As the clock strikes 4 :30 am, the skeletal remains of bones, stripped bare of their meat, are carefully removed. The mixture is either retained in a spacious earthen pot or transferred to a large copper vessel, where it undergoes relentless pounding until it transforms into a sumptuous paste. The climax of the process involves the lavish addition of smoking-hot mustard oil, meticulously kneaded into the blend with a lengthy wooden masher until the desired consistency is achieved. This gastronomic masterpiece is then portioned onto plates, garnished with seasoned mustard oil, and served with the indigenous bread, girda.

The Joyous Experience of Harissa
A serving of Harissa in Kashmir is not complete without a mutton kebab and “methi,” a finely minced amalgamation of a sheep’s entrails simmered in ghee and fenugreek. Those fortunate enough to secure their portion by 10 am at one of the ancient city establishments may even savor the golden-brown crust  “phuher,” “Harisa Phur in Kashmiri”  gently scraped from the pot’s base, a cherished delicacy among both the young and the old.

Embracing Tradition in Modern Times
While modern cafes in the vicinity have also embraced the allure of Harissa, seamlessly incorporating it into their menus, the authentic charm of partaking in this culinary delight amidst the cobbled streets of downtown Srinagar on a brisk winter morning remains unparalleled.

Bottom line:
Harissa in Kashmir transcends the realm of mere sustenance; it emerges as an indelible fragment of history and culture, instilling warmth and camaraderie in the hearts of the valley’s denizens. Its preparation stands as an art form, a labor of love passed down through generations. As the wintry chill envelops Kashmir, the redolent essence of Harissa drifts through the vibrant bazaars, serving as a poignant reminder of a time-honored tradition that has persevered through the ages.

About the Author:
Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon is a renowned Columnist & Motivational Speaker and an Associate Editor of the Weekly Publication ‘Education Quill.’ He currently serves as the Senior EDP Head at DD Target PMT Kashmir, a reputable institute renowned for its coaching classes in the medical/JEE/Foundation Classes

Kokernag Martyrs Tribute, 30 September 2023

Posted on by Editor
Kokernag Martyrs Tribute
In the highest example of sacrifice for nation recently in an encounter at Gadool Kokernag in South Kashmir three top security officers were martyred along with more security personnel.
The encounter with terrorists continued for many days and few hardcore terrorists were also killed.
As a matter of fact, Major Ashish Dhonchak was one of three Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police officers martyred in action during an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district on the intervening night of September 12-13. The encounter broke out in the Kokernag forest area of Anantnag. Major Dhonchak was part of the joint operation team of the Indian Army and Kashmir South Zone police.
The other two officers who lost their lives are Colonel Manpreet Singh and DSP Humayun Bhat. The Army had received specific intelligence about the presence of two terrorists in Koernag village.
Colonel Manpreet Singh had completed 17 years of service in the Indian Army and was known for his unconventional approach and cordial relations with locals. For his service to the force, Singh was awarded with the prestigious Sena Medal for Gallantry in 2021.
34-year-old Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat was the youngest among the three police and army officials who lost their lives in an encounter with terrorists at Kashmir’s Anantnag on Wednesday, September 13.
DSP Bhat, after being shot by terrorists, had made a video call to this wife, Fatima, where he told her to take care of their two-month-old infant since he believed he would not make it out of the action alive, as per a report by India Today.
The nation is indebted to the Kokernag Martyrs who laid their lives for integrity and security of Bharat with the will to crush the terror and violence.
Nation of India salutes Kokernag Martyrs.

Embers to Flames by Leena Thampi, Book review

Posted on by Editor
Embers to flames by Leena Thampi – A must read poetic book
Review By Rameez Makhdoomi
Embers to flames by Renowned South Indian Author Leena Thampi is a must read. It is a collection of more than 5 dozen poignant poems focusing on women,their dreams and aspirations.
This spins webs between nature, human love, and spiritual connections.
 The writer has used a very soft and yet impressive language to connote her message.
As the Prologue of the book suggests Poems of Leena Thampi in the ” “Embers To  Flames” are grounded in the diverse mysteries of the world.
Leena Thampi through her strokes of pen has brilliantly articulated the sufferings , strengths and weakness of women.
Born in Jammu and Brought up in Delhi and settled in her South Indian roots. The book lexicon gives idea of long journey of experiences travelled by Leena Thampi .
In her Poem Creator she pays a brilliant tribute to the universal creator God.
‘Deja Vu’ her poem in the book Embers to Flames has these awesome lines :
” I never had to Impress you
You never had to impress me”
Eight billion people and you feel like home, There’s something about eternity, don’t roam, Uncanny synchronicities  exist in us .
Her book has quite romantic moments as well when she writes; I am swallowed in an abyss of love ,you keep the naughty girl alive in me.
Leena Thampi has conveyed the idea of humanity in a very subtle manner in the book without sounding of any complaint tone or note .
“Dust to Dust” poem gives beautiful description of otherwise sad episode of death which needs to be applauded .She’s given a new twist to death poems.
The poem titled”Written with Fire ” is one of my personal favorites.
Leena Thampi has at every step shone like a lamp of intellect in her Journey as an author and Embers to Flames is a beautiful example of the same ,and it’s her fourth book.
With an expert sense of language and narrative, this intrepid poet cranks her high beams to rummage ‘humanity’s basement, the murk inside the mammalian heart’ and unearths each dark, radiant truth.
Embers to Flames is definitely a must read . A book in which Leena Thampi has ticked all boxes .There’s no doubt she’s written it with fire.
She Dips into the ink of ashes and writes her own fire into existence.
©️®️_Leena Thampi