The J&K administration on Sunday issued fresh guidelines regarding the use of social media by its employees, saying no government employee should, through any post, tweet or other means, discuss or criticise any government policy or action on social media platforms. It said employees were prohibited from participating in any such discussion or criticism on social media pages, communities or microblogs. “The government employees, directly or indirectly, shall not publish, post or release any information on social media that is considered confidential or that is not meant for public dissemination,…
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Open Merit Shrinks in J&K: Aspirants Demand Fairer Reservation Policy
Srinagar: Eight months of dedication, countless hours spent with his nose buried in books, Mohammad Ubair, 25, was laser-focused on cracking the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). But his confidence took a hit in the past two weeks. The news of a 10% reservation for Paharis being carved out of the general/open merit quota, reducing it to just 30%, cast a shadow of uncertainty on his dreams. On March 15, the Jammu & Kashmir administration approved 10% reservation for newly-included tribes, including Paharis, in the Schedule Tribe (ST). The Council also…
Read MoreThe Roaring Engines of Change: Exploring the Impact of Motorsports on Kashmiri Youth
Unveiling the Checkered Flag: A Deep Dive into Motorsports and Kashmiri Youth By: Javid Amin The arrival of motorsports in Kashmir, marked by the thunderous roar of the Formula 4 Race Car Rally in Srinagar, has stirred a whirlwind of emotions and ignited a critical conversation. For a region long burdened by conflict, the image of sleek race cars carving through breathtaking landscapes presents a stark contrast. This begs the question: can these high-octane machines become catalysts for positive change in the lives of Kashmiri youth? Beyond the Spectacle: Delving…
Read MoreSpring Awakenings: Witness the Rejuvenation of Kashmir During Nauroz
By: Syed Mohammad Burhan Srinagar: Nauroz, the festival of spring and the first day in the Persian New Year is celebrated across Central Asia. Pertinently, Nauroz starts at the exact moment of the vernal equinox, commencing the start of the spring. Exact moment of the vernal equinox in Srinagar, commonly known as ‘Tahvil’, this year (20th March 2024) was at 08:36:26 a.m. on Wednesday. In Kashmir however, the festival has sadly attained sectarian connotation and this has decreased its significance for the general public. “It is sad Nauroz in Kashmir has…
Read MoreThe Sacred Call to Prayer: Balancing Faith and Public Courtesy in Islam
The Call to Prayer: Striking a Balance in a Modern World The rhythmic call to prayer, the Adhan, echoes across the Muslim world, beckoning the faithful to fulfill one of the Five Pillars of Islam: Salah, the obligatory daily prayers. Muslims believe the entire Earth has been designated a place of worship by Allah (SWT). This inherent flexibility allows them to offer prayers almost anywhere, as long as the place is clean and pure. However, navigating the modern world with its bustling streets and crowded spaces necessitates a deeper understanding…
Read MoreBeyond Trophies: Cultivating Well-Rounded Individuals in a World Obsessed with Success
By: Javid Amin The title “Parents who raised highly successful children say you need to do these 3 things” creates an immediate expectation of a formulaic approach to raising successful children. However, the reality is far more nuanced and multifaceted. This article delves deeper, exploring the experiences of three parents who have raised children who have achieved remarkable things in their respective fields. While their advice includes fostering independence, instilling values, and leading by example, their journeys reveal a tapestry of love, support, and the understanding that true success extends…
Read MoreBeyond the Screen: Navigating the Complex Landscape of Online Gaming Addiction in Kashmir
Beyond the Headlines: Humanizing the Narrative By: Javid Amin Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Kashmir, often hailed as “Paradise on Earth,” a new challenge is quietly unfurling—online gaming addiction. In a region with a history of grappling with socio-political unrest, the surge in gaming addiction, particularly among the youth, adds a unique layer to the complexities faced by Kashmir. This comprehensive exploration aims not only to dissect the issue but also to ignite a constructive dialogue around the growing concerns and potential solutions. The Changing Landscape of Kashmir: Kashmir,…
Read MoreBeyond Scams and Shadows: Safeguarding Yourself from KYC Updation Frauds
A Deeper Dive: Unveiling KYC Updation Scams and Building a Secure Future By: Javid Amin In the ever-evolving landscape of digital transactions, the importance of robust financial security measures has become paramount. However, amidst this environment, a concerning trend has emerged – the rise of KYC (Know Your Customer) updation frauds. These deceptive schemes exploit the legitimate need for KYC compliance to lure unsuspecting individuals into compromising their financial information and privacy. This article delves into the modus operandi of these frauds, empowering the public with the knowledge and awareness…
Read MoreA Cry for Help: Understanding and Preventing Suicidal Tendencies Among Kashmiri Youth
A Shadow Over Paradise: The Growing Crisis of Youth Suicides in Kashmir By: Javid Amin Srinagar: The breathtaking vistas and rich cultural heritage of Kashmir Valley belie a harsh reality: the region grapples with a rising tide of youth suicides. While India battles a national mental health crisis, with a significant number of suicides occurring among individuals under 30, the situation in Kashmir is particularly alarming. This article delves into the root causes, impacts, and potential strategies for preventing this devastating trend. Unraveling the Roots: A Complex Web of Influences…
Read MoreCombating PDD Fraud: A Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Community
By: Javid Amin Deceptive tactics targeting individuals have become increasingly sophisticated, and the realm of utility bill payments is no exception. “PDD Fraud,” characterized by misleading messages claiming imminent disconnection due to unpaid bills, seeks to exploit anxiety and pressure individuals into making false payments. This article empowers you with the knowledge and practical steps to safeguard yourself and your community from such scams. Understanding the Mechanics of PDD Fraud: These fraudulent messages exploit fear and exploitations in digital literacy. Perpetrators often impersonate legitimate organizations like your local electricity provider (Power…
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