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.
Emerging Opportunities in the Poultry Meat Processing Industry
Altaf says that the poultry meat processing industry in Kashmir can offer ample employment opportunities to educated youth(Dr. Altaf Gilani, 39, was born in Srinagar, and attended the Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) School in Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar. After his graduation...
Common Denominator Between Forests and Urban Sprawl: Disappearing Trees
What good will the government machinery do if common citizens do not stop delogging and stealing? Two related reports on timber smuggling by mafia and tree thefts from public landscaping by individualsOur Forests and Timber SmugglingAijaz Ahmad (General Secretary,...
Kashmiri Politicians, Promises Undelivered
Khayal brings a new sense of objectivity in assessing the Kashmiri political landscape(Mr. Ghulam Nabi Khayal, 70, was born in Srinagar. He received his schooling and college education in Srinagar, and completed his Masters degree in English. Mr. Khayal is considered...
Muzaffar's passion in educating public on RTI is second to none(Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, 34, was born in Wathoora village in the Budgam district and matriculated from Tyndale Biscoe Memorial High School in 1993. He completed his Bachelor's degree in Dental Surgery from...
The Economy is Agrarian, but the Usual Focus is on Tourism
Yusuf Tarigami reminds public that Kashmir's future revolves around its farmers(Mr. Mohammed Yusuf Rather, 60, was born in Tarigam village in Kulgam area of Anantnag district. He usually goes by the name Yusuf Tarigami. He is a member of the J&K Legislative...
The Third Most Prevalent Form of Cancer in Kashmir
Syed Sameer provides a technical update of his research in colorectal cancer in Kashmir(Aga Syed Sameer, 26, was born in Srinagar. He passed his matriculation (10th grade) from the Islamia Public School and his 12th grade from the Iqbal Memorial Instiute, both in...
A Positive Parental Role is Pivotal in Promoting Quality Education
Amin describes how family responsibility is integral to educational development of the society(Dr. Mohammad Amin Malik, 43, was born in Ayathmulla village in Bandipora District. He passed his Matriculation (10th grade) from the Government High School, before...
Institutional Corruption Rears its Ugly Head in Pahalgam
Vigilance busts Pahalgam land scam but we all know that it is just a "tip of the iceburg" Nearly 40 Kanals of state land transferred illegallySrinagar: A land scam has surfaced in Pahagam with State Vigilance Organisation (SVO), after conducting verification,...
Ancient Architects Brought Greece to Kashmir
Iqbal says that the ancient Kashmiri architecture was influenced by contemporary Greek and Roman styles(Mr. Iqbal Ahmad, 48, was born in Parigam Chek, Kulgam. He is a graduate with Diploma in Numastics, Archaeology and Heritage. He is an archaeologist, writer, and a...
A State Infomatics Center Modeled after the National Infomatics Center (NIC)
Shakeel-ur-Rehman reacts to the announcement that J&K state plans to develop a State Infomatics Center(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...