Articles by: Mohammad Ashraf

Abode of the Gods

Abode of the Gods

(Himalaya is called the Abode of the Gods due to its serenity and spiritual ambiance. We should always make it a point to preserve the serenity of these mountains by keeping these clean) Himalaya has been popularly called the “Abode of the Gods”. Not only have the holy men been meditating in these cool and serene heights but there are[Read More…]

by 02/08/2019 Comments are Disabled Environmental Protection
Protecting the Natural Environment

Protecting the Natural Environment

(God gave us a beautiful world to live in. Instead of being grateful to Him and improving the beautiful land He bestowed on us, we are destroying it in every possible way! The Cambridge Dictionary has two definitions of the word Environment. As related to Nature, it says, “the air, water, and land in or on which people, animals, and plants live.” In relation to surroundings, it[Read More…]

by 25/07/2019 Comments are Disabled Environmental Protection
Zojila pass tunnel

Kashmir: The Missing Tunnels!

(One of the reasons for unstable connectivity of the valley in the absence of the traditional Jhelum Valley Road is the missing tunnels on most of the other links going through the surrounding mountains!) The National Highway NH-1A, the only life line to Kashmir valley has given this year the worst headache during its entire existence. Earlier too it had[Read More…]

by 18/07/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The dying water bodies of Kashmir!

The dying water bodies of Kashmir!

(The land which was once the legendry Satisar may soon turn into a desert if we do not reclaim and protect our water bodies!) Last year in these columns the tragic state of our water bodies was described in detail with the hope that some concrete action would be initiated to save these. Unfortunately, nothing substantial has been achieved. Only[Read More…]

The vanishing green belt of Kashmir !

The vanishing green belt of Kashmir !

(One of the main causes for drastic climate change in the valley has been the indiscriminate felling of trees and the conversion of agricultural land!) The most extensively used words these days are the “Climate Change”! The weather in most parts of the world has been behaving in a strange way. Some places are getting extremely hot while as in[Read More…]

Kashmir: Adventure Sports Rescue

Kashmir: Adventure Sports Rescue

All Adventure Sports activities are hazardous by nature and need an efficient rescue service to avoid fatal accidents Adventure Sports were introduced in Kashmir on a regular basis as an “Active Tourism” activity in early seventies of the last century by establshing an Adventure Tourism Wing in the Directorate of Tourism. The seven Ski and Mountaineering Instructors trained by the[Read More…]

by 20/06/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Solving the Kashmir Problem

Solving the Kashmir Problem

(India and Pakistan have now strong and stable governments. The leaders in both countries claim to be people friendly. There cannot be a better opportunity than this to solve the most intractable problem of Kashmir!) The recent elections have thrown up Narendra Modi as the uncontested leader of the 1.3 billion people of India. He has shown that he has[Read More…]

by 30/05/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Facing the Climate Change

Facing the Climate Change

Unusual weather phenomena in Kashmir indicate the effects of the global climate change to face which one needs to take urgent corrective measures before it is too late! The unprecedented weather changes especially sudden rise and fall in temperatures and unusual increase/decrease in precipitation are indictors of the global climate change presently happening in different parts of the world. In[Read More…]

by 23/05/2019 2 comments Climate Change
Kashmir: Governance, not Politics!

Kashmir: Governance, not Politics!

(Kashmir’s political problem is a Gordian knot which no one has been able to disentangle for last 70 years. Till the problem gets resolved, there is need for good governance to at least make daily living conditions of the citizens comfortable) Most of the political leaders in Kashmir from all the “streams” talk about the “Political” problem. The mainstream leaders[Read More…]

by 16/05/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Need For Adventure Tourism Directorate

Kashmir: Need For Adventure Tourism Directorate

(The most promising sector in Tourism is Adventure Tourism but to promote and develop it on modern lines there is urgent need for an independent organization of trained people in the line)  The Tourism arrivals these days seem to be on a very low key. The month of May used to be the peak seasonas regards domestic tourism. Unfortunately, some[Read More…]

by 09/05/2019 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir’s Bleeding Economy! | Mohammad Ashraf

Kashmir’s Bleeding Economy! | Mohammad Ashraf

(The uncertain situation for last few years is making already fragile Kashmir economy to bleed without any redressal in sight!) The founder of the Ziraat Times, Arjimand Hussain Talib in a recent post on the Facebook while highlighting the problems faced by the trade in Kashmir has observed, “Kashmir’s economy is dying silently, with far-reaching long term negative impacts.It is[Read More…]

by 02/05/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Starting Tourist Charters

Kashmir: Starting Tourist Charters

(The ideal thing to keep the Tourist inflow appreciable and protect the environment is to start dedicated charter flights from some of the most potential markets to destinations in Kashmir) The most beneficial aspect of Tourism is “Sustainable Tourism” which strikes a balance between the tourist in flow and preservation of environment. Globally Tourism is supposed to be booming business.[Read More…]

by 26/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Mohammad Ashraf – Disaster in the making!

Mohammad Ashraf – Disaster in the making!

(The failure of various government agencies in executing flood prevention measures in spite of a lapse of almost 5 years is a recipe for new disaster!) According to a news report, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry has expressed concern over abrupt rise in Jhelum water level. According to them just a few millimeters of rain have caused such[Read More…]

by 18/04/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Tourism needs reorientation!

Kashmir Tourism needs reorientation!

(In view of the prevailing situation, Tourism needs reorientation both in marketing strategy and in the organization managing it!) Kashmir has been known through ages as a Paradise on Earth. In fact, the Mughal time couplet, “If there is a Paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here, and it is here!” has always been quoted to promote tourism[Read More…]

by 11/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir’s Hospitals

Kashmir’s Hospitals

(The basic requirement of any healthcare set up is a hospital. Kashmir has many government and private hospitals but these are lacking in many respects) Before one examines the status of the hospitals in Kashmir, it would be useful to recapitulate how Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia describes a hospital. “A hospital is a health care institution providing patient treatment with specialized medical and nursing staff and[Read More…]

by 04/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The “Dream Merchants” of Kashmir!

The “Dream Merchants” of Kashmir!

(Most of the political leaders in Kashmir have been selling “Dreams” to the people that ultimately get interpreted in their own personal well-being leaving the people high and dry!) The tragedy of Kashmir right from the start of the struggle of its people for emancipation has been their political leaders behaving like the “Dream Merchants”. The people have been shown[Read More…]

by 28/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Chinese Rebuff! 

The Chinese Rebuff! 

(The fourth Chinese veto in preventing declaration of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist is not only a rebuff but the signal of an additional factor in the very basic Kashmir problem!)   The recent incident in Pulwama which drew condemnation from all over the world was attributed by the Indian authorities to Masood Azhar, the head of the Jaish-e-[Read More…]

by 21/03/2019 1 comment South Asia
Restoring Kashmir’s Traditional Routes

Restoring Kashmir’s Traditional Routes

The uncertainty of the present physical link of the valley to the outside world shows the urgency of restoring other historical routes to prevent people from getting claustrophobic! The frequent closure of the National Highway NH-1A linking valley by surface to the outside world during the current winter has almost turned the local population claustrophobic. They feel to have been[Read More…]

by 14/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Peace, not War!

Peace, not War!

(People raising a pitch for going to War probably forget that any conflict now in the sub-continent would be the last War for this entire region!) It is an established fact of the world history that wars have never solved any problems but have on the contrary destroyed civilisations. The sub-continent has witnessed three major wars in last 70 years[Read More…]

by 07/03/2019 1 comment South Asia
The Rumour Mill!

The Rumour Mill!

(The events of last few years have affected the Valley people psychologically so much that any rumour sells and puts the inhabitants on the edge!) Kashmiris are traditionally given to rumour mongering and then believing in rumours without any attempt to verify these! During recent years of turmoil the rumours have had a free flow in Kashmir. Many a times[Read More…]

by 28/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir, a bleeding tragedy!

Kashmir, a bleeding tragedy!

(Due to the misfortune of Kashmiris, the two neighbours have converted the place into a bleeding “Paradise”!) Historically Kashmir has been known as the “Paradise on Earth” because of its natural beauty. Unfortunately, for past some time there has been so much violence and blood shed that it is turning into a bleeding paradise. The recent attack on a CRPF[Read More…]

by 21/02/2019 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Dismembering the Maharaja’s Creation!

Kashmir: Dismembering the Maharaja’s Creation!

(The setting up of a third territorial division in the erstwhile State of J & K created by Maharaja Gulab Singhmay result in its finaldismemberment!) For past sometime there has been demand of some people for converting Ladakh into a union territory and the Jammu people too have sometimes raised a similar demand. The recent order creating Ladakh as a[Read More…]

by 14/02/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Nature Isolates The Kashmir Valley!

Nature Isolates The Kashmir Valley!

(The continuous blockade of the National Highway linking Kashmir with the rest of the world in spite of the best efforts of the Border Roads Organization calls for an alternate link) The continuous landslides taking away portions of the road has virtually cut off Kashmir by surface from the outside world. The tragedy is that it is the only link[Read More…]

by 07/02/2019 2 comments Kashmir
The Weather Forecast

The Weather Forecast

The present Director of the Srinagar Met Office, Sonam Lotus, has made people very much weather conscious by his useful forecasts during last few years!)   Sonam Lotus These days’ people have become very conscious of the weather forecasts thanks to Mr. Sonam Lotus, the present Director of the Srinagar Met Office. In earlier times people were not very much[Read More…]

by 31/01/2019 1 comment Kashmir
The undependable “Life Line”!

The undependable “Life Line”!

The only surface access to Kashmir from the outside world is becoming totally undependable due to the crumbling strata through which it passes From the ancient times Kashmir has been known as a landlocked country situated in the heart of the Himalaya. Mountains have been taken as natural guardians which let the country remain unmolested for a long time. The[Read More…]

by 17/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Doctrine of State

The Doctrine of State

(The Doctrine of State cannot override the Doctrine of Human Rights!) Mr Yashwant Sinha former Foreign Minister in an interview on NDTV disclosed that a senior Government Officer had informed him that Delhi is following the “Doctrine of State” in Kashmir. According to him, as part of this doctrine the government is going all out in elimination of any rebellion[Read More…]

by 10/01/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Dr. Abdul Ahad, a noble soul!

Dr. Abdul Ahad, a noble soul!

Dr. Sheikh Abdul Ahad, a well-known ENT Specialist who passed away recently was truly a noble soul! Kashmir has produced many renowned doctors who have made a name within Kashmir and abroad. I had the good fortune of knowing a few of these doctors personally. Dr. Sheikh Abdul Ahad an ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) specialist was one among these. I[Read More…]

by 09/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Life/Philosophy
Kashmir, the Nemesis!

Kashmir, the Nemesis!

Kashmir has been continuously ravaged by many outside forces for more than four centuries. While the barbarity and oppression has failed to dampen our unique spirit of survival, it has proved a nemesis for all the oppressors! Dictionary defines nemesis as, “The nemesis of a person or thing is a situation, event or a person which causes them to be[Read More…]

by 03/01/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Whose India, Tagore’s or Golwalkar’s?

Whose India, Tagore’s or Golwalkar’s?

India is presently going through a struggle between the ideologies of these two ideologues and one is not sure which one will ultimately prevail! Three years back one wrote an article titled, “Tagore’s or Golwalkar’s India?” The massive campaign of the Hindutva parties to usher in Hindu Rashtra posed a question as to which India will prevail, the spiritual India[Read More…]

by 27/12/2018 Comments are Disabled Communal Harmony
Kashmir: End the senseless violence!

Kashmir: End the senseless violence!

(Violence in any form with any motive can never solve a problem. Unless the senseless violence from all sides is ended soon, it will engulf the entire region resulting in an Armageddon!) The recent virtual massacre of the civilians in Pulwama has been likened to the massacre in Jalianwala Bagh during the British rule in India by a former judge[Read More…]

by 20/12/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Tourism loses priority!

Kashmir: Tourism loses priority!

(In spite of tall claims from various politicians and the government functionaries about Tourism being the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, the sector seems to have lost government’s priority!) Kashmir has been a well-known Tourist destination throughout our history. In earlier times, great travelers used to visit the valley and describe its beauty in their travelogues and other writings. Before partition[Read More…]

by 13/12/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Breaching Sub-Continents Berlin Wall!

Breaching Sub-Continents Berlin Wall!

(The opening of Kartarpur Corridor practically signifies a breach in the artificial security barriers created by the two countries to keep their people apart) An interesting short entry in Wikipedia about the corridor sums up the motive behind theproject. “The Kartarpur Corridor is a proposed border corridor between India and Pakistan, connecting the Sikh shrines of Dera Baba Nanak Sahib (located in Punjab, India) and Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur (in Punjab, Pakistan). The[Read More…]

by 06/12/2018 Comments are Disabled South Asia
Kashmir’s Political Chameleons!

Kashmir’s Political Chameleons!

(Many of Kashmir’s politicians have been acting like chameleons, changing their ideologies and convictions like the colours of these lizards) During the last seventy years Kashmir has given birth to a class of politicians who can be called the political “Chameleons”. They have been changing their colours with every political upheaval and now these have turned into virtual “Dinosaurs” destroying[Read More…]

by 29/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Winter Tourism In Kashmir

Winter Tourism In Kashmir

(Kashmir has the highest potential for the development of Winter Tourism if proper facilities are provided. We could easily have half a dozen ski-resorts!) In mid-eighties, one had the opportunity of flying in a helicopter with a European ski expert over the snow areas of entire Kashmir valley. He had remarked that Kashmir has unlimited “White Gold”. The oil reserves[Read More…]

by 22/11/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Shrinking Political Space In Kashmir!

Shrinking Political Space In Kashmir!

(For last few years the political space in Kashmir has been gradually made to shrink and now even the so called “mainstream” is being squeezed out!) Recently Omar Abdullah in an interview said that the political space for main stream parties has shrunk in Kashmir. One could ask him whether there ever was real political space in Kashmir any time[Read More…]

by 15/11/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Fragile Power System

Kashmir: Fragile Power System

  (Apart from various perennial problems relating to demand and supply, the very system of transmitting and supplying power is extremely fragile) The recent power break down in the valley reportedly resulting from the collapse of a high voltage transmission tower caused by a foot or so of unusually heavy and untimely snowfall resulted in a power outage throughout the[Read More…]

by 08/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
A “Limited” War!

A “Limited” War!

(The way the situation is developing some strategists feel that there may be a “Limited” War between the two neighbours before the 2019 General Election!) Dr.Nishank Motwani,a Visiting Fellow at the Asia-Pacific College of Diplomacy, the Australian National University, and Consulting Researcher for Armed Conflict at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (London), wrote an article, “Be Prepared for an[Read More…]

by 02/11/2018 1 comment South Asia
Kashmir: The Perennial Power Problem!

Kashmir: The Perennial Power Problem!

  (The PDD has been chasing the PPP for a longtime but the current year’s winter may see the climax of the problem!) No doubt because of our run of the river schemes we have extreme shortage due to low water level in winter yet we are unable to cope even though we have enough power available in the market[Read More…]

by 25/10/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The other side of 35-A!

The other side of 35-A!

(Repealing of Article 35-A creates an apprehension among Kashmiris of being swept away by the rich from the mainland. On the contrary, Kashmir may turn into something which no one could have imagined!) The controversy regarding the article 35-A has now been in the news for sometime. The shut downs called by various organizations to show the resentment of the[Read More…]

by 18/10/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Shuffling the Administration

Kashmir: Shuffling the Administration

(For past some time the officers in the state administration are being shuffled like a pack of cards which renders them ineffective) Apart from various political and security issues, the State of Jammu & Kashmir is bedevilled by lack of governance and unresponsive administration. Both the issuers emanate from the virtual absence of accountability which is a direct offshoot of[Read More…]

by 11/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Himalayas and Climate Change

Himalayas and Climate Change

(The Himalayas play an important role in shaping the climate of the sub-continent and the recent erratic weather is the direct result of the “desecration” of the Himalayas!) The Educational Multimedia Research Centre of the University of Kashmir recently organized a film festival in collaboration with CMS Vatavaran, the International Forum on Environment and Wild Life. As part of the[Read More…]

by 04/10/2018 2 comments Climate Change
Kashmir, the “Final” solution!

Kashmir, the “Final” solution!

(Reportedly, Prime Minister Modi is going to announce the “Final” solution of the Kashmir problem before 2019 elections!) Recently there was a news report that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is going to announce the “Final” solution of the Kashmir problem very soon. In fact, the Eurasian Times on September 12 carried an item titled, “PM Modi will divide Kashmir in[Read More…]

by 27/09/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Flood Prevention Not Preparedness!

Kashmir: Flood Prevention Not Preparedness!

(Instead of wasting time in mock drills to test the flood preparedness, the government should get down earnestly to implement urgent measures for flood prevention) Recently there was a high level meeting to discuss the flood preparedness and it was decided that mock drills would be conducted to test the flood preparedness. In fact a tented colony to house the[Read More…]

by 20/09/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Political Uncertainty, the main problem!

Kashmir: Political Uncertainty, the main problem!

(Lack of accountability, lopsided governance, dishonesty and corruption in every field stem from the basic malaise which is the perennial political uncertainty) During last 70 years or so Kashmir has off and on faced one or the other turmoil. In fact, it has seen four wars between its neighbours. There have been some periods of apparent calm but the uncertainty[Read More…]

by 13/09/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Cross LOC Bus, An Ordeal!

Cross LOC Bus, An Ordeal!

(The most important confidence building measure between India and Pakistan initiated in April, 2005 has virtually become an unbearable ordeal for the passengers!) It was for the first time since the establishment of a ceasefire line in 1947 (present LOC or the line of control) that people were allowed to cross from both the sides in April, 2005. Even though[Read More…]

by 07/09/2018 2 comments South Asia
Partition and Kashmir, the British Conspiracy!

Partition and Kashmir, the British Conspiracy!

(Gurrinder Chadha’s film Viceroy’s House released last year reveals Churchill to be the real author of the conspiracy to partition India as well as Kashmir!) Last year a British Indian Director, Gurinder Chadha released a movie “Viceroy’s House” about the partition of India. The feature film is based on the goings-on at Viceroy’s House (now Rashtrapati Bhavan) in Delhi. The[Read More…]

by 05/09/2018 1 comment South Asia
The Cup of “Poison”!

The Cup of “Poison”!

(The cup of poison called “Hemlock” which Socrates was forced to drink has always turned out to be the cup of the “Water of Life” for the mainstream politicians of Kashmir!) The former Chief Minister after losing the seat of power by sudden and unannounced withdrawal of support by BJP to her coalition government declared that the initial alliance with[Read More…]

by 17/08/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Threat to Kashmiri Existence!

The Threat to Kashmiri Existence!

Unprecedented shutdown against Supreme Court hearing on Article 35-A shows Kashmiris’ concern not only to protect their unique identity but their very existence!  Before one delves on the threat to the existence and the identity, it would be worthwhile to describe the unique Kashmiri identity. There are many theories about the origin of Kashmiris. It is one of the most[Read More…]

by 09/08/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Adulterated Food and Fake Medicine

Adulterated Food and Fake Medicine

The worst calamities for Kashmir apart from natural disasters are the adulteration in food products and the sale of fake medicine! Kashmiris have now become used to both natural and man-made disasters striking one after the other. In fact, Nature has been rather very kind and it is the fellow human beings whose material greed has turned into the instruments[Read More…]

by 02/08/2018 4 comments Kashmir
The Environmental Suicide!

The Environmental Suicide!

(The way we have been deliberately and knowingly destroying various components of Nature in Kashmir makes it look like an Environmental “Suicide”!) Recently there has been news about some dredging scam in the Wular Lake area where the contract given to a firm has been cancelled. The need for dredging of the second largest sweet water lake in Asia is[Read More…]

Kashmir: Tourism gets low priority

Kashmir: Tourism gets low priority

(In spite of the fact that one and all claim Tourism to be back bone of Kashmir’s economy, yet the government does not seem to accord it the priority it deserves!) Almost all the governments have been declaring from various pulpits that the Tourism is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy. Unfortunately, so far there is neither an approved “Policy of[Read More…]

by 20/07/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Nepotism, Kashmir’s worst enemy!

Nepotism, Kashmir’s worst enemy!

(The most destructive element in every sphere of Kashmir Society is the widespread nepotism! For any real progress it has not only to be opposed but eradicated) Most of the ills in Kashmir in every sphere of the society emanate from extensive nepotism. It would be interesting to study the rise of nepotism and its prevalence in our parts. The[Read More…]

by 12/07/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Living with nightmares!

Living with nightmares!

  (The trauma caused by the disastrous flood of 2014 makes living in Srinagar’s low lying colonies virtually a continuous nightmare, especially during the rainy days!) The recent flood caused by just a couple of days of continuous rain created a wave of panic among the people living in different parts of Srinagar especially those in the low lying areas[Read More…]

by 05/07/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Corruption in blood stream!

Kashmir: Corruption in blood stream!

(The Kashmir Society has become so corrupt that one feels the corruption has gone into the blood stream of the people!) There was a time when word “corruption” would give a scary feeling. In fact, calling somebody corrupt was probably the worst abuse. Not now! It has become a word of daily usage to which all of us seem to[Read More…]

by 28/06/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Climate Change And Kashmir

Climate Change And Kashmir

(Extraordinarily hot weather in Kashmir is part of the Global Climate change due to which many parts of the world have been experiencing freak weather) Kashmir has been experiencing very hot weather in the month of June. According to MET sources sometimes the temperature has been more than 8 degrees above normal for the same period in previous years! In[Read More…]

by 21/06/2018 1 comment Climate Change
The Vanishing Water Bodies of Kashmir

The Vanishing Water Bodies of Kashmir

  (We have literally eaten away most of our water bodies after first polluting these beyond redemption) As the legend describes it, Kashmir Valley was a huge lake.  Kalhana, the author of the earliest recoded history of Kashmir, Rajtarangni, states that the valley of Kashmir was a huge lake called Satisar. The Lake was drained through the Varmul gorge by[Read More…]

by 14/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Zojila pass tunnel

The land-locked Kashmir!

(Kashmir has been described as a land-locked country but with the advent of civil aviation it became quite accessible. However, some parts still continue to be remote especially in winter!) Historically, Kashmir has always been known as a land-locked country in the high Himalayan Mountains. In the earliest Chinese records Kashmir is described as, “a country enveloped on all sides[Read More…]

by 07/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Ceasefire in“Ramadan”!

Ceasefire in“Ramadan”!

(Linking cessation of military operations against militants with the holy month of Ramadan amounts to communalizing the move which should normally have no connection with religion) The Central Government recently announced the cessation of cordon and search operations by the Army during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan to give peace a chance. The announcement was made on the request[Read More…]

by 31/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Srinagar International Airport, A Cruel Joke!

Srinagar International Airport, A Cruel Joke!

(Going by International Civil Aviation Standards, the Civil Airport at Srinagar does not, in reality, function as an International Airport) For a change, let us see how the airport is described in the famous online encyclopedia, Wikepedia. It says, “Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport (IATA: SXR, ICAO: VISR) also known as Srinagar Airport is an international airport that serves Srinagar, the summer capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is[Read More…]

by 24/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Resilient Kashmiris!

The Resilient Kashmiris!

(“The country of Kashmir may be conquered by the force of spiritual merit, but not by the force of soldiers!” Kalhana) Recently the Army Chief challenged Kashmiri militants saying that they cannot get Azaadi as they cannot fight his Army. “I want to tell Kashmiri youth that Azaadi isn’t possible. It won’t happen. Why are you picking up weapons? We will always[Read More…]

by 17/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
AFSPA, A License To Kill!

AFSPA, A License To Kill!

(The present blood bath in Kashmir can only be stopped by revoking AFSPA which is virtually a license to kill and destroy without any accountability whatsoever!)  In the famous Ian Fleming’s series, James Bond, an operative of the Her Majesty’s Secret Service, had a code name“007”. The 00 suffix according to intelligence parlance stands for the “License to kill”! James[Read More…]

by 10/05/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Stirring the Communal Cauldron!

Stirring the Communal Cauldron!

(After getting rebuffed in various other programs, the trend seems to be to stir the Communal Cauldron once again for the next Parliament Election!) The horrendous episode in Kathua is allegedly having some hidden objectives. It has been given out by some that the conspiracy, kidnapping, rape and murder of the eight year old Bakerwal girl was to drive away[Read More…]

by 03/05/2018 Comments are Disabled Communal Harmony
Justice for Kathua Victim

Justice for Kathua Victim

(This heinous crime has shaken the conscience of the entire world. The most important part now is that justice must not only be done but must appear to have been done!) The savagery and brutalization done with an innocent eight year old girl in a place of worship is an unparalleled crime which goes beyond condemnation. One shudders to think[Read More…]

by 19/04/2018 2 comments Patriarchy
Kashmir: David And Goliath!

Kashmir: David And Goliath!

(The recent security forces anti-insurgency operations appear like the biblical giant Goliath chasing the miniscule David with lot of collateral damage) The “Bloody Sunday” which resulted in the death of 20 persons (militants, soldiers and civilians) and injuries to over 150 persons including pellet injuries in the eyes to over 40 persons has been the worst episode of all round[Read More…]

by 12/04/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Revising Tourism Marketing Targets

Kashmir: Revising Tourism Marketing Targets

(Tourism Department needs to direct increased marketing efforts on South India and South East Asia which are emerging as potential Tourism markets for Kashmir) The 64th Convention of the Travel agents Association of India has just concluded in Srinagar. The Convention was attended by over 600 delegates from all over the country. The Convention was held in Srinagar after 31[Read More…]

by 05/04/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Digitisation For Selling Privacy!

Digitisation For Selling Privacy!

(Even though digitisation of various services has helped a lot yet it has adversely affected personal privacy) The Facebook/Analytica scam has shaken the digital world. There are allegations about the use of personal data during last US elections. According to the expose the information about people is being collected, stored and processed to produce psychographic profiles that can judge peoples’[Read More…]

by 30/03/2018 1 comment India
The National Travel Convention

The National Travel Convention

(The holding of the 64th Convention and Exhibition by the Travel Agents Association of India in Srinagar is expected to send positive signals for Kashmir in different travel markets) After thirty years, the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) is holding its 64th Annual Convention in Srinagar. This is the apex body of Travel Agents throughout India and holding of[Read More…]

by 27/03/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir’s Political History

Kashmir’s Political History

(To elaborate the political nature of Kashmir problem, one needs to examine the historical perspective of the land and its people) Recently Kashmir’s Finance Minister lost his job for saying that Kashmir is not a political problem. Apart from that he had denigrated the political leadership of Kashmir standing for its total freedom. He had stated that they were barking[Read More…]

by 22/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
This flag titled The sang-bazan (stone pelters) of Kashmir is #11 in the seriesJatiIndia: Flags of Atrocities Caste, Present and Future. 

Kashmir Problem, Social or Political?

As Shakespeare has said, “A rose is a rose by whatever name you call it” Similarly, Kashmir is a serious problem whether you name it Social or Political that is presently irrelevant! Haseeb Drabu, lost his job by merely stating that Kashmir is a Social Issue and not a Political Issue. Incidentally, he is one of the architects of the[Read More…]

by 15/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Preparing For Mahabharata’s Last Battle!

Preparing For Mahabharata’s Last Battle!

The continuous firing on the Line of Control and the Indo-Pak border looks ominous and could spiral out of control with disastrous consequences! Recently, there have been numerous statements from leaders as well as defence services officers of the two neighbouring countries in the Indian sub-continent about the escalating situation on the border. Saner people have been repeatedly emphasizing that[Read More…]

by 08/03/2018 2 comments South Asia
Flood Prevention Hakeem Suyya Way!

Flood Prevention Hakeem Suyya Way!

(In view of the failure of the government to implement various flood prevention measures especially dredging and strengthening of river banks, someone has to become a Hakeem Suyya to save Srinagar!) The popular minister of the famous Kashmiri King Avanti Varman, Hakeem Suyya, is still remembered everywhere as a Messiah who saved Kashmir from the ravages of flooded Jhelum and[Read More…]

by 02/03/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Srinagar, The “SMART” Prison!

Srinagar, The “SMART” Prison!

Instead of making Srinagar, the city of the Sun into a “Smart” city, it has been turned into a virtual prison! Sometime back there was talk of declaring some cities all over the country as “Smart” cities for proper development on modern lines. Srinagar was also included in the list of these cities. Incidentally, Srinagar, the City of the Sunis[Read More…]

by 22/02/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Possibility of Indo-Pak War?

Possibility of Indo-Pak War?

The fast deteriorating security situation between India and Pakistan has created a sinister possibility of a destructive conflict unless big powers step in to diffuse the situation The recent attack on Sujwan Army camp in Jammu coupled with the shelling and firing on the border is an indicator of a fast deteriorating security situation between India and Pakistan. In fact,[Read More…]

by 15/02/2018 Comments are Disabled South Asia
Demonizing Kashmiris!

Demonizing Kashmiris!

(The greatest achievement of the present central government has been demonizing of Kashmiris throughout India!) The incidents of beating Kashmiri students in different institutions in India have been spreading like an epidemic. Every second day or so one hears about the students being roughed up in one or the other institution, in buses, in trains and so on. In fact,[Read More…]

by 08/02/2018 1 comment Uncategorized
The Ever Illusive Jhelum Dredging!

The Ever Illusive Jhelum Dredging!

(The most important flood prevention measure of dredging the river Jhelum and the Spill over Channel seems illusive as ever as one does not see any physical progress on the ground!) After the disastrous flood of 2014, the most important task of the government was to initiate immediate flood prevention measures. The top most measure was the dredging of the[Read More…]

by 01/02/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Physical Social Disconnection!

The Physical Social Disconnection!

(The people seem to be socially disconnected physically from each other due to the events of last couple of decades. This in turn has resulted in many psychological problems!) In 2015, Medicines Sans Frontier conducted a survey in Kashmir about the mental health of the people. “Nearly 1 in 5 adults (19%) in the Kashmir Valley is living with significant[Read More…]

by 25/01/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
India And Pakistan: The Only Meeting Ground!

India And Pakistan: The Only Meeting Ground!

(The only meeting ground between the two Asian countries of India and Pakistan is the extreme poverty of the masses on the two sides of the divide!) It has been reported that the National Security Advisors of India and Pakistan met in Thailand on December 27, secretly! The meeting is reported to have been useful and it is claimed that[Read More…]

by 11/01/2018 1 comment South Asia
Kashmir Needs Resolution, Not Management!

Kashmir Needs Resolution, Not Management!

(As always, people from every side are trying to “manage” the problem in Kashmir rather than resolve it once for and all!) The authorities in Delhi and Kashmir are these days announcing a number of measures to somehow engage the “rebellious” youth all over Kashmir. Firstly, harsh measures are being taken to trace and liquidate militants. In fact, the Army[Read More…]

by 28/12/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Reviving Kashmir’s Ziraat

Reviving Kashmir’s Ziraat

(Any initiative in reviving and expanding the agricultural base of Kashmir which has been the backbone of our economy is most welcome) A columnist friend Arjimand Hussain Talib has recently launched Ziraat Times both a print publication and an online portal to fully revive and promote the dwindling agricultural economy of the State. The focus of the bi-lingual print publication[Read More…]

by 21/12/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s Own Air Service

Kashmir’s Own Air Service

(The operation of a private helicopter service is welcome but it needs full government backing from the State and the Centre to succeed) Recently the announcement about the formation of a private limited company, Kashmir Air Services was made by some local entrepreneurs known as Dar brothers. They have been operating a reputed timber company known as Dar Timber Company.[Read More…]

by 14/12/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The Political “Leeches” of Kashmir!

The Political “Leeches” of Kashmir!

(Some politicians have been virtually acting as leeches,stuck to the body of “Kashmir”, sucking every drop of its blood and attaching to it again and again even when thrown away!) “Mainstream” is a very commonly used word in Kashmir these days. It is generally applied to the politicians advocating and supporting Kashmir’s relationship with India. When one talks of streams,[Read More…]

by 07/12/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
CBM’s For The Youth!

CBM’s For The Youth!

(Recalling youth from violence through confidence building measures is good but the question is why did the youth take to violence in the first place?) The Chief Minister has announced amnesty for the first time stone pelters. The cases against these would be reviewed and withdrawn. The initiative is supposed to have been taken on the advice of the new[Read More…]

by 30/11/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir On “Auto-Pilot”!

Kashmir On “Auto-Pilot”!

(People allege that the governance is missing in Kashmir but in reality, the State has been put on an “Auto-Pilot” like an aircraft taking a long range flight!) It is usual practice with the flight crew of a long range passenger aircraft goingon long flights usually inter-continental ones, to put the aircraft on “Auto-Pilot”. The “Auto-Pilot” controls all functions of[Read More…]

by 23/11/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Flood Channel, Invitation To Disaster!

Flood Channel, Invitation To Disaster!

(The present condition of the flood spill over channel is such that even a small flood can turn into a disaster!) For last three years various engineering departments have been inspecting, debating and discussing flood prevention measures to prevent any disastrous floods in future. The 2014 flood which was the most disastrous to have occurred in a century, has not[Read More…]

by 16/11/2017 2 comments Kashmir
End Repression Before Talks!

End Repression Before Talks!

(For any dialogue to succeed the primary requirement is a conducive environment. One cannot ask somebody to talk by holding a gun to his temple!) It is a very welcome initiative from Government of India to hold talks with all stake holders in Kashmir to resolve the basic problem and bring peace to the area. Kashmir problem has been hanging[Read More…]

by 02/11/2017 3 comments Kashmir
Integration or Assimilation?

Integration or Assimilation?

(Mohan Bhagwat’s declaration of integrating Kashmir fully into India may, on the contrary, begin the process of disintegration of India itself!) The Oxford dictionary defines “Integration” as an action to bring together different countries, blocks, units and so on for political or economic integration. The best example of the process is the European Union. The integrated countries or states retain[Read More…]

by 12/10/2017 1 comment India
Promoting Adventure Tourism In Kashmir

Promoting Adventure Tourism In Kashmir

  (With unprecedented decline in leisure Tourism, the ideal alternative is to promote Adventure Tourism for which Kashmir has unlimited potential) Tourism in Kashmir has suffered the most serious set-back during the last two years. The activity during the current season has been virtually negligible compared to some earlier years. The figures were supposed to have touched almost two million[Read More…]

by 28/09/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Protecting Kashmiri Identity

Protecting Kashmiri Identity

(The all-out assault launched by the Hindutva forces in completely wiping out the Kashmiri identity necessitates an equally united front from the entire State to defend and safeguard it) The first question is what is “Kashmiri” identity? Kashmiris constitute a nation which is thousands of years old. In fact, a written record of Kashmiri nation penned down by an illustrious[Read More…]

by 21/09/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Flyover To Nowhere!

The Flyover To Nowhere!

(The bits and pieces of the incomplete flyover of Srinagar in fact reflect the true state of Kashmir’s development in almost all sectors!) The most appropriate word to describe the state of developmental activities in Kashmir in any field is “adhocism”! Everything is done on the whims and fancies of the rulers always given to flattery from one and all![Read More…]

by 14/09/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The (un-) Holy Men!

The (un-) Holy Men!

(The controversy surrounding Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh and the mayhem caused by his conviction for rape seems only the proverbial tip of the ice-berg!) For quite some time India was known in the west as the land of snake charmers and naked sadhus. Well, the Sadhus are considered to be the holy men who have been associated with India from[Read More…]

by 31/08/2017 Comments are Disabled India
“Azadi” To “Special Status”

“Azadi” To “Special Status”

(There seems to be a deliberate hype for retaining the so called “Special Status” in order to dilute the universal demand for total freedom called “Azadi”!) Some people have opined that the Central Government has deliberately shifted the focus of Kashmir agitation from “Azadi” to “Special Status”. Almost all so called mainstream political parties are totally worked up by the[Read More…]

by 25/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Aadhaar Reminds Of Orwell’s 1984!

Aadhaar Reminds Of Orwell’s 1984!

(Aadhar, the new ID card which is virtual indexing of the entire population, is reminiscent of George Orwell’s famous novel 1984!) One of the most important aspects of a totalitarian or a fascist regime is indexing of the population so as to keep watch over their activities. It is virtually practical implementation of the famous slogan in 1984, the “Big[Read More…]

by 17/08/2017 2 comments India
India China Border Conflict

India China Border Conflict

(Slowly increasing border problem may be a fore runner of a limited border engagement similar to 1962 clash which had a basis other than the disputed demarcation line!) There is a media hype on the Chinese side regarding possibility of a border clash in the Doklam plateau. Some reports have even suggested the possibility of a clash within two weeks![Read More…]

by 10/08/2017 1 comment India
Kashmir’s Job Market

Kashmir’s Job Market

(The outside workers in Kashmir both skilled and non-skilled result in an outflow of over Rupees 40 crores everyday which could be easily earned by the locals if they were motivated and trained in various jobs!) Kashmir is facing a typical dichotomy in relation to employment of the local youth. According to reports almost a million youth are without any[Read More…]

by 03/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s Neglected Elders!

Kashmir’s Neglected Elders!

Traditionally Elders in Kashmir used to be given all the love and care but the “Modernisation” has left some of them isolated and lonely! The ancient civilisations were always rooted in extended families. People used to live together where the elders were not only respected and cared for but were the guides and the inspiration for the new generations. Kashmir[Read More…]

by 27/07/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kargil Helicopter Service

Kargil Helicopter Service

Helicopter service to Kargil has been overdue but the real requirement is a regular civilian air connection to the area pending for decades which could put it on the World Tourism Map! It was a pleasant surprise to see a video of the dramatic Nun-Kun peaks in the Suru Valleyof Kargil on the Facebook taken from a helicopter of Pawan[Read More…]

by 20/07/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Saffron Swastika Hugs The Star of David

Saffron Swastika Hugs The Star of David

  (Modi’s hug of President Ruvi reminds one about the two opposites embracing each other just for the hatred of the third one considered by the both, a common enemy!) Like the North Pole and the South Pole meeting for the formation of the present State Government in J & K, the hug between President Ruvi and Prime Minister Modi[Read More…]

by 13/07/2017 1 comment World
“Permanent Solution” For Kashmir Problem!

“Permanent Solution” For Kashmir Problem!

The Union Home Minister has declared that there will soon be a “Permanent Solution” for the Kashmir problem. The declaration appears more scary than comforting! Kashmir problem has been hanging fire since the partition of the sub-continent. In fact, the creation of the two countries itself created the problem! Kashmir as an independent sovereign country has a history of more[Read More…]

by 06/07/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Anarchy And impotence!

Anarchy And impotence!

(The two words which describe the present Kashmir situation appropriately!) The Cambridge dictionary defines “Anarchy” as “a situation in which there is no organisation and control, especially in society, because there is no effective government”. The word “impotence” is defined as, “lack of power to change or improve a situation”. In almost every front whether civil society, or the government[Read More…]

by 29/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
“Cowistan” And “Kaliban”!

“Cowistan” And “Kaliban”!

    (RSS through the ruling BJP is aiming to turn the Great Republic of India into a “Cowistan” with the help of their Gau Rakhshaks who are India’s “Kaliban”!) The obsessive protection of the cow and the subsequent attacks on people having various professional activities connected with it especially the Muslim minorities and the Dalits have created a piquant[Read More…]

by 22/06/2017 1 comment India
Cool Kashmir, Boiling Sub-continent!

Cool Kashmir, Boiling Sub-continent!

Presently the Physical Climate in Kashmir and the rest of the sub-continent is quite unpredictable and could turn scary! There has been a significant change in the physical climate both in the entire sub-continent and the Valley of Kashmir. Apparently it is part of the global climate change. In the middle of June it has snowed on Baderwah Mountains and[Read More…]

by 15/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir, South Asia
Kashmir, A Separate Country!

Kashmir, A Separate Country!

(UN showing Kashmir as a separate country confirms the historical fact known right from the ancient times!) There was recently a news item about the UN showing Kashmir as a separate country in some of its documents. The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) have depicted Jammu & Kashmir as a “separate country”. In the “Advanced search[Read More…]

by 08/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Vietnam War Memories Revived!

Vietnam War Memories Revived!

(The photograph of human shield and the subsequent award to the perpetrator of human rights violation have put the Army as well as the country in a very poor light!) A photograph of Farooq Ahmad Dar, a weaver from a village in Badgam Kashmir, tied to the front of an Army jeep and paraded through 30 odd villages during the[Read More…]

by 01/06/2017 3 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Idea, Not leaders!

Kashmir: Idea, Not leaders!

(Kashmir’s new revolution is following an idea and not any particular leaders!) Recently, there was a sting operation conducted by a TV network regarding money being received by some of the leaders of the present movement for “Azadi”. In fact, the discovery was proclaimed all over the country like the discovery of the principle of floatation by Archimedes who ran[Read More…]

by 25/05/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Hindutva: The “Opium” Of The People!

Hindutva: The “Opium” Of The People!

(The Hindutva wave of violence during the elections and after is not really against Muslims and for the safety of the cows. It is an excuse to administer what Karl Marx called the “Opium of the people” to the millions of poor Indians!) The ultimate goal of every religion is to explain the purpose of human existence to make it[Read More…]

by 18/05/2017 1 comment Communal Harmony
The New “Iron Curtain”!

The New “Iron Curtain”!

(The Digital India has failed to control the Social Life in Kashmir in spite of the strongest curbs ever put on all the social networking sites sand TV channels!) In the erstwhile Soviet Union there was such a blackout of communications with the outside world that the measure got the name of the “Iron Curtain”. It was virtually an Iron[Read More…]

by 12/05/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Generals Call For Political Solution!

Kashmir: Generals Call For Political Solution!

(Recently a number of retired Generals of the Army including a former Army Chief have opined that Kashmir needs a political solution rather than a military one!) In a recent interview, the former Chief of the Army Staff General Ved Prakash Malik said that Kashmir needs a political solution and bringing peace is not solely the task of the Indian[Read More…]

by 04/05/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Who Runs India?

Who Runs India?

(A view of the various economic and political activities reveals that it is the Brahmins and Banias who practically run and control India!) Sometimes one wonders how such a large country is run and who really runs it? Arundhati Roy calls India, “An Upper Caste Hindu Corporate Republic”! One would have thought that she may have been saying this in[Read More…]

by 28/04/2017 3 comments India
Kashmir Flood 2017: Yet Another Nightmare!

Kashmir Flood 2017: Yet Another Nightmare!

(Srinagar has once again passed through a nightmarish situation due to a sudden flood in River Jhelum. It is nature’s warning for a big one which may hit us soon unless preventive measures are taken on a war footing!) Just two days of incessant heavy rain swelled River Jhelum to dangerous flood level. There was panic all over and many[Read More…]

by 20/04/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Election “Balloon” Deflated!

Kashmir: Election “Balloon” Deflated!

  (Total boycott accompanied by gruesome mayhem clearly shows the oft bandied “Balloon” of elections has been fully deflated!) George Bernard Shaw had said “Democracy is a balloon filled with hot air. Fools watch it when it rises and the clever pick their pockets”! This has been happening in Kashmir from the very start. The best excuse oft used by[Read More…]

by 13/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The Hindu Rashtra And Kashmir!

The Hindu Rashtra And Kashmir!

  (With the unprecedented victory of BJP in the U.P. elections giving rise to militant Hindutva proclaiming India to be a Hindu Rashtra, the relationship of Kashmir to India loses the very basic premise of accession!) After the recent phenomenal success in the U.P. elections, the RSS is going full steam ahead to give practical shape to Golwalkar’s dream of[Read More…]

by 06/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir – China Relationship

Kashmir – China Relationship

(China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which includes Gilgit-Baltistan area of the erstwhile State of Jammu & Kashmir can revive historical connection of Kashmir with China)  Presently, the China Pakistan Economic Corridor is the hot news. The project is being implemented by China and Pakistan at an accelerated pace. Work in full swing started on it in 2015 after an agreement[Read More…]

by 30/03/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s Physical Isolation!

Kashmir’s Physical Isolation!

(The National Highway presently connecting Kashmir Valley to the outside world is in the throes of death and there is urgent need to find an alternative) Kashmir valley remained cut off during the current winter a number of times. This was due to the closure of the National Highway connecting it with Jammu, the only land route presently available during[Read More…]

by 23/03/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The “New India”!

The “New India”!

(The recent state elections show that the “New India” would probably be the realisation of the Golwalkar’s dream!) After a resounding victory in the UP and Uttrakhand State elections, the Prime Minister declared that it was the beginning of a “New India”. According to him this India of progress and development which would be completed by 2022 and would be[Read More…]

by 16/03/2017 1 comment India
The Forgotten “Flood”!

The Forgotten “Flood”!

The way the authorities are destroying the flood channel with peoples’ connivance gives one the feeling that the most destructive flood of the century has been totally forgotten both by the authorities as well as the people!  The other day late in the night there was movement of road clearing machinery in Jawahar Nagar. On being asked what was happening[Read More…]

by 09/03/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Pandit Return “Resolution” !

Kashmir Pandit Return “Resolution” !

(The J & K Assembly some time back passed a resolution for the return of migrant Pandits. Will mere passing of a resolution be enough to facilitate their return?) One felt very nostalgic recently during the celebrations of the famous Pandit festival of Herath. The festival used to be celebrated on two days. The first day Pandits would perform the[Read More…]

by 02/03/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: A Simmering Volcano!

Kashmir: A Simmering Volcano!

(In spite of a lull after the last year’s upheaval, the whole of Kashmir seems to be simmering like a volcano waiting to eruptanytime without any warning!) Kashmir has witnessed a number of upheavals spearheaded by the youth in the recent years starting from the Amarnath land row of 2008. However, the “Burhan Tsunami” of last July was the most[Read More…]

by 23/02/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Daulatabad To Ahmedabad!

Daulatabad To Ahmedabad!

  (One finds an uncanny resemblance between the rule of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq and the present rulers of the country!) There is a popular saying that the History repeats itself. Muhammad-bin-Tughluq ruled Delhi from 1325 A.D. to 1351 A.D. After Allaudin Khilji he is supposed to have been the greatest Sultan of Delhi. He is fondly remembered for his bold experiments and[Read More…]

by 16/02/2017 1 comment India
Kashmir: Living In Cocoons!

Kashmir: Living In Cocoons!

 The excessive security measures have forced Kashmiris, historically reputed to be very sociable people, to live in cocoons with only interactions through social networking sites on the internet! The events of the nineties of the last century when armed militancy erupted in the state forced Kashmiris to mostly confine to their homes. There was violence all around with encounters, clashes,[Read More…]

by 09/02/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Choked By The “New Maharajas”!

Kashmir Choked By The “New Maharajas”!

While the Kashmir valley is physically and politically choked, the “New Maharajas” are enjoying the pleasant climate of Jammu and celebrating the erstwhile Maharaja’s birthday! Kashmir valley has been politically “choked” right from 1947. The expression of true aspirations is an “anti-national” act in Kashmir. Now added to this political choking has come the physical choking! During last couple of[Read More…]

by 02/02/2017 2 comments Kashmir
System Failure In Kashmir

System Failure In Kashmir

Just a foot of snow throws life out of gear which is a system failure due tolack of accountability at the top management level Kashmir has seen many heavy snowfalls in the past. In fact, sometimes even three feet of snow has accumulated in a day or so. Because of massive and sudden snow falls in the past the government[Read More…]

by 12/01/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Understanding Kashmiri Aspirations

Understanding Kashmiri Aspirations

The motivators of various initiatives to bring peace to Kashmir first need to understand the sentiments and the aspirations of Kashmiris An unprecedented uprising has just somewhat abated after five months. The uprising which had been triggered by the killing of a local militant leader of Tral, Burhan Wani had acted as a Tsunami sweeping away everything in its path.[Read More…]

by 05/01/2017 1 comment Kashmir
After The Storm, A Tornado?

After The Storm, A Tornado?

(One may weather a storm but tornados, also called twisters are very difficult to handle!) Kashmiri has most of the time been an unpredictable character. In the middle of an uprising which breaks out like a storm one gets the feeling that the game is over and soon Kashmir would be “free” but then comes a time when one wonders[Read More…]

by 29/12/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Flood Protection Measures

Kashmir: Flood Protection Measures

(In spite of a lapse of more than two years, one is still waiting for the execution of the urgent and credible flood protection measures leaving an option open for the next disaster!) The most destructive flood in a century occurred in Kashmir in September, 2014. It was an unprecedented disaster in our living memory. Even though the loss of[Read More…]

by 22/12/2016 2 comments Kashmir
Is Anything Straight In Kashmir?

Is Anything Straight In Kashmir?

If one examines various aspects of life in Kashmir, a question comes up whether anything works in a straight way here? There is an Arab saying about the Camel. It goes like this, “O, Camel which of your parts is straight?” The saying fits perfectly the life in Kashmir during the present times. Nothing seems to work here in a[Read More…]

by 15/12/2016 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Subjugation, Not“Normalcy”!

Kashmir: Subjugation, Not“Normalcy”!

(Peace is slowly returning to Kashmir but it is debatable whether it is in reality a return to “Normalcy” or the people have been subjugated into apparent submission, temporarily?) According to government spokespersons in J & K and New Delhi, Kashmir is returning to normalcy and peace. It is true that the intensity of the uprising which had shut down[Read More…]

by 08/12/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Indo-Pak Conflict And Kashmir

Indo-Pak Conflict And Kashmir

(Why should the fate of Kashmiris be tied up with the establishment of Indo-Pak friendship?) There are some very common refrains in regard to the solving of the most intractable and the longest pending political problem of Kashmir. In the global context, it is the necessity for a peaceful dialogue between the two neighbouring countries, India and Pakistan, to solve[Read More…]

by 01/12/2016 1 comment South Asia
Kashmir’s Stakeholders!

Kashmir’s Stakeholders!

Dialogue among all the “Stakeholders” is the present refrain but one could ask who the real “Stakeholders” are and what stakes they have? The “Burhan Uprising” has shaken not only people in the sub-continent but across the world. It is for the first time in the recent history of the Kashmir’s Movement for the right of self-determination that the people[Read More…]

by 24/11/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Sadbhavana To Scorched Earth!

Kashmir: Sadbhavana To Scorched Earth!

Goodwill of late nineties has been replaced by the worst form of repression reminiscent of the Scorched Earth policies of retreating armies in the Second World War! The decade of the nineties of the last century witnessed the most violent period in the recent history of Kashmir. It was the decade of the armed uprising. There was violence all around.[Read More…]

by 17/11/2016 1 comment Kashmir
The Cat’s Paw Syndrome!

The Cat’s Paw Syndrome!

The uprising which resulted after the killing of Burhan Wani has entered into the fifth month. Everything continues to be virtuallyat a standstill. The massive and spontaneous uprising throughout the valley has sent a clear message to the world that everything is not alright in Kashmir as claimed by some ultra-nationalists in India. In the meantime, the two neighbouring countries[Read More…]

by 10/11/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Honesty Before Azadi!

Honesty Before Azadi!

Before one can dream of independence, one has to deserve to be independent and that can happen only when one is honest and sincere about the goal as well as the movement leading to it in the first instance! The present mass uprising in Kashmir has crossed 100 days and is still going on. Everything has been virtually at a[Read More…]

by 06/11/2016 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Barometers Of Political Normalcy

Kashmir: Barometers Of Political Normalcy

The reality of the ground situation in Kashmir cannot be hidden by using some activities as barometers of Political Normalcy. Kashmir has been facing a perennial situation of political uncertainty right from 1947. Various activities projected as normalcy have always failed to hide the ground reality which has a habit of bursting out off and on. After the dethroning of[Read More…]

by 03/11/2016 2 comments Kashmir
The Apologetic Chief Executive!

The Apologetic Chief Executive!

The Chief Executive of the State having all the residuary powers under the constitution and presiding over the destiny of the millions of the state subjects has to be honest and decisive rather than apologetic and demeaning The Chief Minister, who is at present the Chief Executive of the State, in a Police function “pleaded” before the Police to spare[Read More…]

by 27/10/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: The 100 Days’ “Message”!

Kashmir: The 100 Days’ “Message”!

The longest mass uprising in Kashmir has conveyed a definite “Message” to India and to the World at large! The mass uprising which was triggered by the killing of Burhan Wani has already crossed 100 days. The uprising had resulted in total shutdown throughout the valley with massive protest marches. To prevent the marches and public meetings for “Azadi”, the[Read More…]

by 20/10/2016 1 comment Kashmir
The “Political Strikes”!

The “Political Strikes”!

(The widely projected “Surgical Strikes”according to many commentators have political objectives within the country rather than military objectives across the border!) Recently Captain Amrinder Singh, the Congress leader from Punjab took a TV team to the border to show that everything was normal and there was no war like situation. A video about the visit has been posted on the[Read More…]

by 13/10/2016 1 comment Kashmir, South Asia
The War Hysteria!

The War Hysteria!

The persons creating the War Hysteria should first get educated about the consequences of a present day war especially between the nuclear armed countries!

by 06/10/2016 2 comments India, South Asia
Operation “Cow Down”!

Operation “Cow Down”!

Sometime back it was announced that one full division of the Army is being inducted into South Kashmir. This additional deployment was given the name of “Operation Calm Down”. Keeping in view the objective which was to prevent and control the freedom marches emanating from every village in Kashmir, the operation should have been named as the “Operation Cow Down”[Read More…]

by 29/09/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s Political Vultures!

Kashmir’s Political Vultures!

  The so called“leaders” of Kashmir have always behaved like vultures waiting one upon the other to feed on the dead bodies of the innocent Kashmiris! A general observation made by most of the Kashmir watchers is that there has so far been no sincere and upright leader who could lead the people to salvation. Since 1586 the country of[Read More…]

by 22/09/2016 1 comment Kashmir
The Curfewed Eid!

The Curfewed Eid!

(Putting the entire valley of Kashmir under curfew on the most important Muslim religious festival of Eid-ul-Adah is the first event of its kind in the entire recorded history of Kashmir!) Eid-ul-Adah is the most pious and revered festival in the Muslim world. It is in remembrance to the symbolic sacrifice which God asked Prophet Ibrahim to offer. Well, Kashmiris[Read More…]

by 18/09/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Freedom For “Suppression”!

Freedom For “Suppression”!

(The constitutional provision of “Freedom of Expression” has been modified to“Suppression of freedom of expression by the State” in Kashmir!) Article 19, in part III of the Constitution, about Protection of certain rights regarding freedom of speech, states, (1) All citizens shall have the right :- (a) to freedom of speech and expression. (b) to assemble peaceably and without arms.[Read More…]

by 08/09/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Sajjad Lone And “Chewable” Nationhood!

Sajjad Lone And “Chewable” Nationhood!

The author of the ‘vision document’, “Achievable Nationhood” has modified it to become the “Chewable Nationhood”! Sajjad Lone, a minister in the ruling coalition, in an interview to NDTV’s Burkha Dutt said that only 5 percent people are involved in the present uprising in Kashmir. According to him 95 percent people are sitting inside their homes. He also added that[Read More…]

by 25/08/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Negotiators, Not Soldiers!

Kashmir: Negotiators, Not Soldiers!

Kashmir can be pacified by sincere and honest efforts for sorting out the basic political problem through dialogue and not by sending more and more soldiers to brutalize the people! According to a report in the Citizen, New Delhi had been planning to unleash a special program in Kashmir. It has been reported that the intention was to handover the[Read More…]

by 18/08/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Siege Without End!

Kashmir: Siege Without End!

Last Sunday when I logged into the Facebook, it came up with my memory of the year 2010. It was an article titled “The Stubborn Delhi” which I had written for my column, Kashmir First, in Greater Kashmir. Somehow the software in the Facebook seemed to have very good intelligence as the article was very much relevant to the present[Read More…]

by 11/08/2016 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir’s Women Rulers

Kashmir’s Women Rulers

Right from the earliest times Kashmir has had some women rulers. There are three womenwho have made an imprint on Kashmir’s history Pandit Kalhana in Rajatarangini, his treatise on the Kashmiri Kings from the ancient times,which was written in twelfth century AD mentions about some of the women rulers of Kashmir. The most famous ruler has been Rani Didda who[Read More…]

by 04/08/2016 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Caged Kashmiris!

The Caged Kashmiris!

For last three weeks the entire valley has been converted into a prison and a virtual concentration camp. There is continuous curfew in the entire valley without any relaxation or break. All communication links within Kashmir and with the outside world have been snapped. Nonstop protests are taking place all over the valley. Protesting teenagers, children and women are being showered with bullets and pellets. Over 50 people have been killed and more than 3,000 injured. As per latest reports, the pellets have affected the eyesight of over 185 persons. The newspaper presses and offices were sealed and papers confiscated

by 28/07/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Revolution, Not Rebellion!

Kashmir: Revolution, Not Rebellion!

When a small group of people defy the authority of a state, it is called rebellion but if the entire population stands up, it is a revolution! For last two weeks the entire valley has been converted into a prison and a virtual concentration camp. There is continuous curfew in the entire valley without any relaxation or break. Clashes with[Read More…]

by 21/07/2016 2 comments Kashmir
Sanskritising Kashmir!

Sanskritising Kashmir!

Recently there was an alarm and panic because of alleged move for replacement of the Persian script of Kashmiri language by Devanagari or Sanskrit script. There is no doubt that the original Kashmiri language from ancient times was written in Sarada script. However, after the advent of Islam in Kashmir, the Persian script was introduced. Now for almost 7 to[Read More…]

by 14/07/2016 7 comments Kashmir
The Burhan Tsunami!

The Burhan Tsunami!

The killing of technocrat turned militant from Tral, Burhan Muzaffar Wani has generated a Tsunami which may ultimately engulf the entire sub-continent

by 11/07/2016 4 comments Kashmir
Kashmir’s Leper Colony

Kashmir’s Leper Colony

Finally, the outcasts from society seem to be getting a livable place but it needs finishing touches to make it presentable! In the famous HollywoodmovieBen-Hur, Jesus Christ visits a Leper Colony on the outskirts of the city. The lepers lived in the shabbiest conditions totally outcast from the society. Jesus touches them and they are cured. It is a fact[Read More…]

by 23/06/2016 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The South Asian Armageddon

The South Asian Armageddon

According to Dilip Kashmir is the root cause of enduring enmity between India and Pakistan. Three wars have been fought by the rivals on this, “toxic bone of contention”. He quotes President Bill Clinton who called the India Pakistan border in Kashmir as the most dangerous place on Earth! The most worrisome aspect is the Indian Cold Start doctrine involving massive tank thrusts and Pakistan’s response with the tactical nuclear weapons at the disposal of the field commanders. A limited encounter can rapidly escalate and result in a total nuclear exchange. It is a more worrisome scenario than Richter Scale 8 earthquake!

by 18/06/2016 Comments are Disabled South Asia
Kashmir: Self-Rule To Self-Reliance!

Kashmir: Self-Rule To Self-Reliance!

Mehbooba Mufti’s assertion that Horticulture and Handicrafts have more potential than Tourism is a very bold statement based on reality which,if followed up honestly could make Kashmir’s economy self-reliant

by 18/06/2016 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
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