Introduction to KashmirForum.org Blog
Vijay K. Sazawal, Ph.D.
I launched the website and the Blog after undertaking a thorough search of literature dealing with Kashmir. Finding existing choices that varied from harsh zealotry as expressed by multiple political antagonists and religious bigots, I undertook multiple visits to the valley to make a first hand assessment of the situation as well as seek input from those on the ground – common people, civic and academic leaders of both genders, minorities, and bureaucrats both in Srinagar and New Delhi. After having spoken to government officials, political analysts and security experts specializing in South Asian affairs from three continents, it became clear to me that when Kashmiris are suffering and the world has its own set of prior-
-ities, we need to find ways to help each other. We must be realistic, go beyond polemics and demagoguery, and propose innovative ideas that will bring peace, justice and prosperity to all the peoples of Jammu and Kashmir. Above all, it is incomprehensive how violence can lead to any political closure or human justice when it simply impedes any healing, development or normalcy.
We encourage hearing from the disfranchised “silent majority” in Jammu and Kashmir. Please send your comments by contacting us. Thank you.
Lacking Artisans and Raw Material, Walnut Industry Withers
Annual production shrinks to a low of 7% Raw material shortage hits Kashmir walnut industry Rashid Paul (Rising Kashmir)Srinagar: Raw material scarcity and indifference from youngsters to take up walnut wood carving is pushing the heritage craft of Kashmir on the...
Given What is the Situation is, Dal Lake has a Short Life
The accumulating silt is snuffing the lake outDal Lake’s age mere 355 years; ReportSrinagar: At least 61,000 tons of silt is deposited every year in the Dal Lake and the life expectancy of the lake is mere 355 years, a study by University of Roorkee has revealed.The...
Foundation for Growth
Shakeel-ur-Rehman discusses the role of education(Syed Shakeel-ul-Rehman, 32, was born in Qazipora, Tangmarg. He did his schooling at the Government Middle School in Katipora and at the Government Higher Secondary School in Chandilora, both in the Tangmarg Tehsil. He...
An Ode to Teachers
Afshana salutes teachers on the Teacher's Day(Ms. Syeda Afshana, 35, was born in Srinagar. She attended the Vishwa Bharti High School in Rainawari, Srinagar, and the Government Women's College in Srinagar where she received a B.Sc. degree. She completed her Master's...
Indian President Visits Shrine of Mir Syed Ali Hamadani
Iqbal's discourse on sufism is followed by the news item about Indian President's visit to Dushanbe, completing a cultural circuit that began in the 14th century(Mr. Iqbal Ahmad, 48, was born in Parigam Chek, Kulgam. He is a graduate with Diploma in Numismatics,...
Musharraf is Gone, but is Pakistan Following his Game Plan?
Ashraf suggests that Pakistani plan for Northern Areas is consistent with the Mushrarraf Plan and India may follow suit(Mr. Mohammad Ashraf, 66, was born and raised in Srinagar. He attended the S.P. High School and the S.P College before joining the Regional...
In Defense of the Distance Education
Naseem says that distance education offers an opportunity to thousands of students who are left out of the mainstream of education(Syed Naseem Zaffar, 40, was born in Sopore and raised in Bandipora. He completed his high school and higher secondary education from...
Smart Ads
Monisa suggests a change for the better(Ms. Monisa Qadri, 24, was born and raised in Srinagar. She has been a Mallinson Girl and studied bio-chemistry at the Women's College, Srinagar. She has studied mass communications and journalism from Kashmir University, and...
Inportance of Good Teachers
Maroof argues in defense of teachers who impart intellect to the civil society(Dr. Muhammad Maroof Shah, 31, was born in Kunan, Bandipore. He has pursued a career in veterinary medicine and animal husbandry, completing Bachelors's degree in veterinary sciences (BVSc)...
Breaking Down Societal Barriers
Imtiyaz's gaze is transparent. He wishes others would also do away with barriers of caste, creed and color(Mr. Imtiyaz Ahmad Aafreen, 25, was born in Kanir Chadura, Badgam. He completed his schooling from the Government Higher Secondary School in Zoohama, and graduted...