In the Shadows: The Psychological Impact of Essential Shortages in Kashmir By: Javid Amin Kashmir, often described as paradise on Earth, now grapples with a crisis that extends beyond the physical realm — a crisis that delves into the depths of psychological well-being. The severe shortage of essentials, particularly electricity and water, is not merely an inconvenience; it’s a silent assailant on the mental health of the people, casting a long and ominous shadow over their resilience. Darkness as a Daily Companion Picture this: enduring 16 hours of darkness every…
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Disturbing Trend: 10 babies abandoned in Kashmir every month
At least three babies have died this year as their biological parents lacked awareness on surrendering them properly, which would have prevented fatalities By : Peerzada Ashiq Heartrending cases of “unwanted” babies abandoned at garbage dumps, less-travelled roadsides, and hospital bathrooms are rising in Kashmir. Jammu & Kashmir’s Social Welfare Department (SWD) is grappling with the issue as an average of 10 cases are reported every month, a jump from the average of five cases reported till a few years ago. “The worry is that not all cases are reported…
Read MoreKashmir’s Youth at Risk from Drug Abuse: ‘Not My Kid’ mentality prevails with Over 10 Lakh active users in the Valley
Over 10 Lakh Active Drug Users in Kashmir’s Vulnerable Youth Population By: Javid Amin Drug addiction, a ubiquitous and alarming problem, is not confined to any particular region and affects diverse populations even in unexpected locations such as Kashmir. The prevalence of substance abuse in this conflict-ridden region is not widely acknowledged, with approximately one million active drug addicts plaguing the land, posing dire consequences for both individuals and society as a whole. Drug addiction is a significant issue in Kashmir, with an estimated 10 lakh active drug addicts. The…
Read MoreCombatting Youth Drug Addiction: A Multi-Front Battle in Kashmir, from Mosques to Classrooms
Religious centres and educational institutions are assuming a new role in Kashmir by doubling up as counselling and testing centres to curb the fast-spreading menace of drugs. These rare interventions come as the Valley is battling a drug addiction crisis; over 10 lakh people were officially designated drug addicts by the Jammu and Kashmir administration this year. Otherwise restricted for the clergy, the pulpit at Magam Imambara in north Kashmir’s Baramulla, where Shia Muslims organise large religious congregations, recently saw Muzaffar Khan, a clinical psychologist who heads the Drug De-Addiction and Rehabilitation…
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