Categories
-Top News India News PAKISTAN

India Hits Back at Pakistan’s UN Allegations on Jammu and Kashmir

Anupama Singh said that it is deeply unfortunate for the Council’s platform to have once again been “misused” to make patently false accusations against India…reports Asian Lite News

Responding to Pakistan’s allegations about Jammu and Kashmir at the UN Human Rights Council, India, exercising its right to reply, said that Islamabad has no locus standi to comment on our internal matters.

During the 55th regular session of the UN Human Rights Council, India’s first secretary said Anupama Singh, rejecting Pakistan’s allegations, said the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are an “integral and inalienable part of India”.

The Indian diplomat said, “A country that has a truly abysmal human rights record, which institutionalised the systemic persecution of its own minorities, commenting on India, which is demonstrably making great strides in achieving economic progress and social justice, is not merely ironical but perverse.”

Anupama Singh said that it is deeply unfortunate for the Council’s platform to have once again been “misused” to make patently false accusations against India.

Accusing Pakistan of sponsoring terrorism globally she charged that the country is supporting UNSC-sanctioned terrorists.

ALSO READ-Journalists Gather in Islamabad, Seek Justice for Asad Ali Toor

Categories
India News

Jan was driest, warmest in J&K in 43 years

This is the highest mean maximum temperature for the month of January for these stations in the past 43 years, the MeT centre said in a post on X…reports Asian Lite News

Several parts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Srinagar city, witnessed the warmest January in 43 years, the Meteorological Centre Srinagar’s data said.

In terms of snowfall or rains, Srinagar city witnessed the second driest January in the past four decades, recording a mere 3.0 mm of precipitation in the month this year, it said.

The lowest precipitation in the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir was recorded in January 2018 when only 1.2 mm of rainfall or snow took place.

According to data, the mean Tmax (maximum temperature) recorded in January over Srinagar station was 11.9 degrees Celsius while for Gulmarg in north Kashmir and Banihal in Ramban district, it was 5.7 degrees Celsius and 16.9 degrees Celsius respectively.

Jammu city recorded the lowest mean maximum temperature for the first month of the year in over four decades, it said.

This is the highest mean maximum temperature for the month of January for these stations in the past 43 years, the MeT centre said in a post on X.

“2024 January was one of the driest and warmest January in the last 43 years for most of the stations of J-K except the stations of plains of Jammu (Jammu, Samba and Kathua),” it added.

It said Jammu station, on the other hand, observed a mean maximum temperature of 13.4 degrees Celsius in January, which is the lowest since 1983.

The mean minimum temperature for January observed over Srinagar, Jammu, Gulmarg and Banihal were minus 3.2 degrees Celsius, 5.5 degrees Celsius, minus 3.9 degrees Celsius and 0.1 degrees Celsius respectively.

“The 2024 mean Tmin is one of the highest for Gulmarg in the last 43 years,” the MET centre said.

ALSO READ-Security Beefed Up in Jammu Ahead of R-Day

Categories
India News Jammu & Kashmir

India Bans Faction of Muslim League Jammu Kashmir

The MHA issued a notification declaring that the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction), referred to as the MLJK-MA, chaired by Masarat Alam Bhat, is known for its anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda…reports Asian Lite News

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday declared the ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)’ MLJK-M as an ‘Unlawful Association’ under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act with immediate effect for the next five years, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah saying that “anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of our nation will not be spared and face the full wrath of the law”.

The MHA issued a notification declaring that the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction), referred to as the MLJK-MA, chaired by Masarat Alam Bhat, is known for its anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda.

The Ministry’s action against the group followed input that “the objectives of MLJK-MA are to get freedom of Jammu and Kashmir from India so as to realise the merger of Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistan and establish Islamic rule in Jammu and Kashmir.”

“In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), the Central Government hereby declares the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) as an unlawful association with immediate effect for a period of five years,” reads the notification.

Soon after the notification was issued, the Home Minister took to ‘X’, formerly Twitter, mentioning that “the ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)’/MLJK-MA is declared as an ‘Unlawful Association’ under UAPA.”

“This organization and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities in J&K supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to establish Islamic rule in J&K. The PM @narendramodi government’s message is loud and clear that anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of our nation will not be spared and face the full wrath of the law,” Amit Shah posted on ‘X’.

As per the MHA notification, the members of the MLJK-MA have been indulging in the secessionist activities in the Jammu and Kashmir, and the leaders and members of the group have been involved in raising funds through various sources including Pakistan and its proxy organisations for perpetrating unlawful activities, including supporting terrorist activities, sustained stone-pelting on Security Forces in Jammu and Kashmir.

The notification points that the MLJK-MA and its members by their activities show sheer disrespect towards the constitutional authority and constitutional set up of the country; and its leaders and members, particularly its Chairman Masarat Alam Bhat, have been indulging in unlawful activities, which are prejudicial to the integrity, sovereignty, security and communal harmony of the country.

The MHA said there had been a number of inputs showing linkages of the MLJK-MA with banned terrorist organisations; as well as the MLJK-MA and its members have been involved in supporting terrorist activities with an intent to create a reign of terror in the country, thereby endangering the security and public order of the state, and its anti-national activities also show disrespect and disregard to the constitutional authority and sovereignty of the state, hence an immediate and prompt action is required against the organisation.

“The Central government is of the opinion that if there is no immediate curb or control of unlawful activities of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction), it will use this opportunity to continue with the anti-national activities which are detrimental to the territorial integrity, security and sovereignty of the country; continue advocating the secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India while disputing its accession to the Union of India; and

continue propagating false narratives and anti-national sentiments among the people of Jammu and Kashmir with the intention to cause disaffection against India and disrupt public order,” mentions the notification.

Noting these reasons, the notification says, the Central government is firmly of the opinion that having regard to the activities of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction), it is necessary to declare the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) as an ‘unlawful association’ with immediate effect. (ANI)

ALSO READ-Defence Ministry Inks Deal for 6 Coast Guard Patrol Vessels

Categories
India News Politics

RS clears 2 landmark J&K Bills

Apart from these, Rajya Sabha MPs Laxmikant Bajpayee, Vivek Tankha and Jayant Chaudhary are to present the Two Hundred and Fifty-Second Report (in English and Hindi) of the Committee on Subordinate Legislation on the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017 in the House…reports Asian Lite News

After the passage of the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill 2023 by the Rajya Sabha, which followed the Supreme Court upholding the revocation of Article 370 from the erstwhile state, the Upper House has more businesses lined for Tuesday as the Parliament reconvenes for the ongoing Winter Session.

Both Houses are scheduled to take up important businesses on the ninth day of the Winter Session, as Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal is to move the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, in the Rajya Sabha for consideration and passage to regulate the appointment, conditions of service and term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners, and the procedure for transaction of business by the Election Commission.

Meghwal will also move the Repealing and Amending Bill, 2023, in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday for consideration and passage to repeal certain enactments and amend an enactment. The Bill was earlier passed by the Lok Sabha.

Apart from these, Rajya Sabha MPs Laxmikant Bajpayee, Vivek Tankha and Jayant Chaudhary are to present the Two Hundred and Fifty-Second Report (in English and Hindi) of the Committee on Subordinate Legislation on the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017 in the House.

Fellow Upper House members Satish Chandra Dubey and Fauzia Khan are to lay on the table a copy (in English and Hindi) of the Thirty-Fourth Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (2023-2024) on Action Taken by the Government on the Observations/Recommendations contained in the Twenty Eighth Report of the Committee on “Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY)” pertaining to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (Department of Food and Public Distribution).

Later into the session, BJP MPs Sudhanshu Trivedi and Krishan Lal Panwar are to table a copy each (in English and Hindi) of the following statements of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy:- (i) Final action taken by the government on observations/recommendations contained in Chapter-I of the Thirty-Seventh Report (Seventeenth Lok Sabha) of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy on the action taken by the government on observations/recommendations contained in its Twenty-First Report (Seventeenth Lok Sabha) on ‘Financial Constraints in the Renewable Energy Sector’.

Final action taken by the government on observations/recommendations contained in Chapter-I of the Thirty-Eighth Report (Seventeenth Lok Sabha) of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy on the Action Taken by the Government on observations/recommendations contained in its Twenty-Seventh Report (Seventeenth Lok Sabha) on ‘Evaluation of Wind Energy in India’ will also be tabled by the two BJP members. (ANI)

ALSO READ-18 crucial Bills listed for winter session  

Categories
India News Jammu & Kashmir

J&K’s Gurez Connected To Power Grid For Forst Time

As winter approaches, J-K face electricity scarcity because of a low proportion of hydropower in the Union Territory, as water reduces in rivers…reports Asian Lite News

The Gurez sector in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bandipora district achieved a historic milestone on Sunday by being linked to the electricity grid for the first time since Independence. Previously, the region solely relied on diesel generators for power, making it the only area in the Valley to do so, according to officials.

The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) proudly declared the achievement on X, stating, “KPDCL is thrilled to share that Gurez now enjoys Grid connectivity with the successful charging of the 33kV Line and RSTN Dawar overcoming challenging terrain. This marks a significant milestone as it brings electricity to the only area in Kashmir that relied on DG sets.”

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha celebrated the occasion, emphasizing its historical significance for a region that traditionally faced isolation during winter months due to heavy snowfall.

“Historic day for Gurez! Grid connectivity reached the pristine valley for the first time after the country’s independence. 33/11kV Receiving Station energised today benefitting 1,500 consumers of various Panchayats, and efforts are on to connect all the villages in a phased manner,” remarked Manoj Sinha.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) administration on Sunday approved the purchase of an additional 500 megawatts (MW) of power from the Centre to meet the winter demand, according to an official statement.

As winter approaches, J-K face electricity scarcity because of a low proportion of hydropower in the Union Territory, as water reduces in rivers.

So in order to meet the gap in demand and supply, the administrative council that met here under the chairmanship of Lt Governor Manoj Sinha approved the signing of a fresh Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between J&K Power Corporation Limited and the NTPC regarding Singrauli-III power station run by the NTPC, the statement read.

This will subside the energy demand in Jammu and Kashmir which is increasing at a compound annual growth rate of 10 per cent.

Singrauli-II being a thermal power station is a must-run station and the electricity generated by it fulfils the demand of Jammu and Kashmir during winter when the generation from hydro generators of interstate generating stations goes down to 150-300 MW, a reduction of 70 to 90 per cent as compared to the summer season, mentioned the statement.

The new PPA regarding Singrauli-III would help the UT tide over the power shortage faced during the lean winter season, it added. (with inputs from ANI)

ALSO READ-SPECIAL: Revival of Tourism in Jammu & Kashmir

Categories
-Top News India News UK News

Indo-Pacific APPG Hosts Event on Jammu & Kashmir

The event was attended by community members and students from various universities of UK…reports Asian Lite News

IndoPacific APPG held an event in UK parliament on 18 Sept titled Indo Pacific dialogue : Jammu Kashmir 2019 and beyond.
The keynote speakers included Dr Christine Fair , Professor Security Studies Georgetown Uni and Burzine Waghmar Ex Visiting fellow RUSI & SOAS London. The event was attended by a number of parliamentarians including Host Bob Blackman MP , Theresa Villiers MP.

MP Theresa Villiers spoke about the success of recently concluded G20 summit in India and the need for stronger ties between UK and India. She also spoke about rising Chinese interference in UK politics and the need for counter balance of the Global south.

Burzine Waghmar spoke about Pakistan’s illegal occupation of the part of Kashmir ( POJK) and he also emphasised the inclusion of African Union into the G20. Mr Baghmar highlighted that India has shown leadership as a leading democracy by facilitating inclusion of African Union in G20, unlike china which uses Africa only for its commercial and defence needs

MP Bob Blackman spoke about the need for deeper cooperation between UK and India. He also congratulated Mr Modi for a successful G20. He also referred to the need of tackling extremist fringe Khalistani elements working closely between two governments. Dr Christine Fair’s talk was.about Pakistan’s interference in Jammu & Kashmir.

The event was attended by community members and students from various universities of UK.

The late Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe in his visionary speech the “Confluence of the two seas”, in 2007, highlighted the importance of the Indo-Pacific region which later became the guiding principle for the free and open Indo-Pacific concept.

2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented India’s vision of the Indo-Pacific at the Shangri-La Dialogue and described it to be “a natural region from the shores of Africa to that of the Americas”.

ALSO READ-Kashmir Reaps the Rewards of Science-Driven Agricultural Reforms

Categories
Business India News Investment

J&K’s handloom industry set to flourish in global markets

L-G said that the growth potential of handloom and handicraft sector and the increasing demand for local products in global market…reports Asian Lite News

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday inaugurated the international buyer-seller meet at University of Kashmir.

As many 24 International and many domestic buyers are participating in the two-day buyer-seller meet.

L-G appreciated the J&K Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) and Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC) for their endeavor to promote the export of handloom and handicraft products of J&K.

“The handloom and handicraft sector of J&K is ageless cultural asset of India, carrying a strong influence of our rich cultural diversity and spiritual traditions. It is the source of socio-economic growth to a large section of society and creating a rich pool of artisans,” he said.

L-G said that the growth potential of handloom and handicraft sector and the increasing demand for local products in global market.

“I see Jammu Kashmir as the principal handicraft, handloom market of the future. The creativity of our craftspeople, weavers, artisans and the indigenous skills is being recognized and admired by the world,” the L-G said.

He said that export is biggest source of revenue for handloom, handicraft and both Global North and Global South are major destinations to our handmade products.

“Our aim is to create a strong edifice of trade relationship to give a much-needed boost to our handloom and handicraft sector,” he said.

ALSO READ-Sufism fostering communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir

Categories
-Top News India News

J&K gears up for grand I-Day celebration

Lieutenant Governor urges the district administration to galvanize efforts and weave a tapestry of activities under the banner of ‘Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan’

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha presided over a significant meeting, orchestrating a comprehensive review of the preparations for the forthcoming Independence Day celebrations across the mesmerizing expanse of Jammu Kashmir.

The meeting, a convergence of esteemed administrative and police officials, was a testament to the collective dedication to ensuring a splendid tribute to the nation’s 76th year of sovereignty.

Gracing the event were key figures in the administrative landscape, including Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary, and Dr Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, who together exemplified the essence of administrative prowess and unity.

The presence of administrative secretaries, ADGPs, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, SSPs, and other esteemed officers, both physically and virtually, emphasized the expansive scope and gravity of the occasion.

With an unwavering sense of duty and responsibility, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha embarked on a thorough assessment of the meticulously planned campaigns and events that are poised to grace the journey leading up to the grand Independence Day spectacle.

His resounding call for unity and collaboration echoed through the hallways, emphasizing the need to function as a harmonious entity in orchestrating initiatives like ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh,’ ‘Har Ghar Tiranga,’ and the iconic ‘Tiranga Yatra’ in the vibrant locales of Jammu and Srinagar.

“The spirit of ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh’ and ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ must unite us as we embark on this noble endeavour,” remarked the Lieutenant Governor, radiating confidence in the unwavering dedication of the people to be part of this monumental celebration.

A fervent directive followed, as the Lieutenant Governor ardently urged the district administration and various departments to galvanize their efforts and weave a tapestry of activities under the banner of ‘Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan’.

This call to action resonated deeply, transcending bureaucratic boundaries and ushering in a wave of commitment that promises to paint the region in the vibrant hues of the tricolour.

In a gesture that underscored the inclusive nature of the festivities, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha beckoned upon the common citizens to actively participate in the commemoration.

With a vision encompassing Public representatives, Youth Clubs, Civil Society, Self Help Groups, NCC Scouts and Guides, Army veterans, ex-servicemen, prominent citizens, and educational institutions, the Lieutenant Governor nurtured a collective spirit that embraced the true essence of unity.

“The celebration of Independence Day is a sacred festival that binds our society together with a thread of oneness and shared emotion,” emphasized the Lieutenant Governor, reminding all present that this occasion transcends the realms of mere governance and resonates as the heartbeat of the nation.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the culture department was entrusted with a unique responsibility — to meticulously chronicle the lives of the nation’s martyrs, immortalizing their sacrifice in the annals of history.

Additionally, the Lieutenant Governor’s vision extended to the majestic illumination of prominent edifices, picturesque tourist spots, and quaint border villages, resonating with the vibrant energy of patriotism. A symphony of activities honouring the eminent personalities who have been the cornerstones of nation-building would further enliven the celebrations.

Beyond the thematic orchestration, the meeting delved into the progress of ongoing developmental endeavours and the unwavering dedication of the district administrations to fulfil the envisioned targets. The room was an embodiment of a shared commitment, a mosaic of leaders dedicated to ushering their region into a future adorned with prosperity and progress.

UP’s grand plans

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanth on Tuesday said the 76th anniversary of the country’s independence will be celebrated in Uttar Pradesh by saluting the soil and worshipping the heroes (‘Mitti ko naman,veeron ka vandan’).

According to an official statement, the independence day celebrations in the state will kick off on Wednesday and will continue till August 15. The state government is planning to organise many events in villages, cities and the state capital, Lucknow.

On August 9, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will formally launch a week of programmes in Kakori by taking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Panch Prana’ pledge for Amrit Kaal, honouring families of fallen soildiers, and planting 75 saplings.

Reviewing preparations for the Independence Day celebrations, on Tuesday, the chief minister said it is a festival for every citizen. “Every state resident should participate in this. The main function, which will take place in the capital on August 15, should be broadcast live in all villages and towns,” CM Yogi was quoted as saying in an official release.

The CM also urged the people to hoist the Tricolour at their homes on Independence Day during the ‘Amritkal’.

Further, according to the official press note, this year, there will be a special performance by a cultural troupe of Sikkim State at the main I-Day function in the state. The CM directed the ministers in his government and the local public representatives to be present at the programmes lined up in the districts and local bodies.

ALSO READ-Sufism fostering communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir

Categories
-Top News Economy India News

J&K economy gets stronger with spike in tourism, start-ups

With the New Industrial Policy, 2021-30 for J&K, more than Rs 66,000 crores of investments have been promised by December 2022…reports Asian Lite News

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a rapid development with steady rise in tourism, startups and investment.

In June, J&K experienced a record-breaking influx of foreign and domestic tourists which led the region’s tourist department to take proactive measures for tourism promotion, including visual tours, airline promotions and other online marketing tools. The choice of Kashmir as a site for the G20 Working Meeting on tourism in May this year, was obvious and yet symbolic. The beauty of Kashmir which renders it the title ‘Paradise on Earth’ makes it an obvious choice for the tourism summit.

However, it also had a symbolic value in two ways: One, it replenished the valley’s image as a major tourist destination for the world. Second, it sent a strong signal internationally that despite its tumultuous and acerbic past, Kashmir has been progressively achieving a state of peace and normalcy.

However, it is not only in tourism that Kashmir has been performing well. The valley has recently experienced a surge in start-ups.

More than 400 start-ups have been registered with the government of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Start-Up India across sectors including horticulture, food and crafts, and e-commerce.

Websites like startupkashmir.org and startupjk.com provide a comprehensive ecosystem, attracting investors and providing training to its youth. In terms of poverty eradication as well, Kashmir seems to be faring quite well.

As per the recently released Multidimensional Poverty Index, Kashmir’s headcount ratio has fallen from 12.56 per cent in 2015-16 to 4.8 per cent in 2019-21. This implies that more than one million people exited multi-dimensional poverty in J-K by 2019-21.

As a multi-dimensional measure, a reduction in poverty indicates the fact that over the period between 2016 and 2021, the region has experienced progress over three main socio-economic indicators: health, education, and standard of living.

In this period, J&K has witnessed a drastic fall in the proportion of the population deprived over various indicators pertaining to nutrition, school attendance, sanitation, years of schooling, maternal mortality, and housing, to mention a few.

The strengthening of these socio-economic indicators has been accompanied by infrastructural developments in the region.

Mega projects in the valley are transforming the landscape, ensuring economic growth and seamless connectivity for greater social and geographical assimilation of the region connectivity projects.

Recently completed T5 tunnel by NHAI, Delhi Amritsar Katra Expressway, Anji Khad Cable Bridge, Kiru Hydro Electric Project are examples of few of the upcoming mega infrastructure projects that will transform the region.

With the New Industrial Policy, 2021-30 for J&K, more than Rs 66,000 crores of investments have been promised by December 2022. With the peace restored, business opportunities are booming as investors are developing confidence in the law-and-order situation of the region.

It has also been attracting FDI, most notable being the Emaar group from Dubai, undertaking projects to build commercial spaces in the valley.

At the Center, the Indian Union Government announced the New Central Sector Scheme for Industrial Development of the Union Territory of J&K. It provides incentives to investors under four categories: capital investment incentive, capital interest subvention, GST-linked incentive and working capital interest subvention.

The steady economic growth witnessed by J&K over the last couple of years has brought in the era of what is popularly called Naya (New) Jammu and Kashmir in India.

J&K is moving fast and marching ahead. With better socio-economic indicators, emerging peace, and reduced deprivation, the living standards in the valley are improving.

Meanwhile, the region’s educational institutions have remained operational without any disruptions, and the availability of seamless internet services has acted as a catalyst for the expansion of digital businesses. Tourist footfall has surged in various areas, with border tourism gaining immense popularity, drawing visitors from across the country. As we explore the multifaceted impact of these changes, we sit down with local residents and business owners, who share their experiences and insights into the region’s post-Article 370 era.

The seamless functioning of educational institutes has been one of the most significant positive outcomes of the post-Article 370 transformation. Despite the challenges during the transition, schools and colleges have remained open, providing students with a stable and uninterrupted learning environment.

The seamless operation of internet services has served as a catalyst for the growth of digital businesses in the region. Startups and entrepreneurs have capitalized on the newfound opportunities, bolstering the region’s economy.

Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir has transcended its traditional boundaries, with border tourism gaining immense popularity. Visitors from different parts of the country are now drawn to the enchanting hooting and waving exchanges between tourists on both sides of the Line of Control (LOC).  (ANI)

ALSO READ-Kashmiri delegation meets British MP, discusses PoK human rights issues 

Categories
Community India News

Sufism fostering communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir

Arif Mohammed Khan, Governor of Kerala presided over the conference organised by Cluster University of Srinagar in collaboration with J&K Academy of Arts, Culture and Languages…reports Asian Lite News

During a conference on Sufism in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha expressed that Sufism embodies a way of life that promotes and advocates for communal harmony, love, and peace among individuals. The event, organized by Cluster University of Srinagar in collaboration with J&K Academy of Arts, Culture and Languages, was presided over by Governor of Kerala, Arif Mohammed Khan. In his speech, Khan acknowledged the significant contributions of Lal Ded, Nund Rishi, Sufis, and Saints from Jammu and Kashmir in enhancing the sense of unity and togetherness.

“Our ancient heritage teaches us peace, love and humanity. The people of all religions, all sects are one family. The continuity of our culture, values, traditions is the biggest power of India that empowers our great nation to flourish,” Khan said.

Sinha highlighted the influence of Sufism in the culture and traditions of Jammu Kashmir.

“Harmonious relationship among all sects, individuals and relationship with the whole existence without distinction is real Sufism. It is way of life that promotes and propagates ideals of communal harmony, love and peace among the people.

“J&K is the land of Rishis and Sufis. It is the land which respects all spiritual and religious streams. Those who had created trouble in this paradise have been decimated, and supporters of terrorism and separatism have been neutralised to establish peace and harmony in the society,” Sinha said.

LG shared the transformational journey of UT of J&K towards peace, prosperity and inclusive development.

“Earlier, shutdown calls were a regular feature in the valley by a handful of people for their vested interests. However, it was common man who used to bear the brunt. Those days are gone now,” he said.

“Peace is prevailing, nightlife has returned and people are living freely. Today is also a historic occasion when Muharram procession was taken out peacefully in Srinagar after a gap of over 30 years,” Sinha said.

Sinha also congratulated the Cluster University of Srinagar and the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages for their endeavour to promote the Sufi traditions.

He called upon the people to embrace the Rishi-Sufi traditions and eliminate all traces of communal divide to strengthen unity.

ALSO READ-Impact of Sufism in the social fabric of Kashmir