The Viral Post

Despite the regulations in place, like the National Mineral Policy (NMP) of 1993 and subsequent amendments, which include restrictions on mining depth, infrastructure development, environmental risk compensation, and employment regulations for locals, the lack of effective monitoring and enforcement has allowed unchecked mining activities to persist. This has resulted in the depletion of natural resources and the disruption of ecosystems in the region.  Representative picture Unchecked mining poses significant risks, including the potential for floods like those experienced in September 2014, damage to fertile agricultural lands, health hazards, social conflicts, and ecosystem disturbances. Moreover, this situation could escalate into a water crisis and adversely impact the livelihoods of the inhabitants. Kashmir although having an abundant mineral wealth, is grappling with persistent environmental and economic issues due to rampant mining of resources such as sand, gravel, pebbles...

The tiny mini, yet unique creature, ants are an extraordinary and diverse group of insects that play a pivotal role in the functioning and health of ecosystems across the globe. Their activities have significant impacts on soil health, plant diversity, and the broader ecological community, highlighting their importance not only in natural environments but also in their complex interactions with humans. Representative picture Nutrient Cycling Ants significantly influence the environment as they engage in activities that modify the physical and chemical properties of soil, which in turn affect plant growth, the health of microorganisms, and the overall biodiversity within the area. By enhancing soil aeration and facilitating nutrient cycling, ants play a critical role in supporting plant communities, thereby contributing to the maintenance and enhancement of biodiversity. Species Interaction The interactions between ants and other species are intricate and multifaceted. Ants participate ...

Mr. Sumit Arora ✉ In the netting of Indian politics, the introduction of electoral bonds has been a subject of intense debate and scrutiny. Ostensibly designed to cleanse the funding mechanisms of political parties, these instruments have instead cloaked the process in a shroud of opacity. The adage "Curiosity killed the cat," often used to warn of the dangers of unnecessary investigation, finds a peculiar resonance in the context of electoral bonds. This piece explores the paradoxical nature of electoral bonds in India, where the quest for transparency in political funding has led to an environment where curiosity is both a necessity and a casualty.   Representative picture The Genesis & Paradox Introduced in 2018, electoral bonds were hailed as a revolutionary step towards ensuring clean money in politics. The government posited that these instruments would enable donations to political parties through formal banking channels, thereby eliminating the influx of bla...

In Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), securing government employment is not just about finding a job; it is a cherished aspiration for many. It has evolved into a significant concern across societies and often plays a pivotal role in marriage discussions, particularly for men. Regardless of holding advanced degrees like a Ph.D. or Postdoc, the value placed on a government job by a potential “father-in-law” often surpasses other academic achievements. The ongoing debate regarding the mandatory requirement of a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) for +2 level positions has ignited significant discourse. While the focus on educational qualifications aims to enhance teaching standards, it is essential to weigh the wider repercussions of such a mandate, especially for individuals who have invested years in advanced education and are nearing the age limit for government employment eligibility. Representative picture Giving a Fair Chance The proposal to make a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) mandatory for ...

 Editorial For those unfamiliar with the acronym, LGBTQ+ encompasses a diverse spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, and more. This acronym reflects the rich diversity within the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting its complexity and inclusivity. In the human rights and freedom arena, LGBTQ+ rights and religious freedom represent a complex issue. This dynamic field is marked by the challenges of ensuring that the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals are protected against discrimination while simultaneously respecting the freedom of individuals to practice their religious beliefs. This haunting issue deeply affects the lives of countless individuals across the globe. As societies evolve and become more inclusive, these fundamental human rights and religious convictions become increasingly complex. It is crucial to explore the various facets of this delicate issue, emphasizing the importance...

Dr. Mansoor Ahmad ✉ The goal of success is often accompanied by the common advice to work hard and aim high. But when we take a closer look at how we think and how society operates, we find a more complex picture. Yes, hard work is crucial for achieving our goals, but setting our expectations too high can backfire. It can lead us down a path filled with emotional struggles, insecurities, and sadness, and sometimes even cause our relationships to fall apart. Representative picture The Dual Nature of Expectations Having high expectations, especially when they are realistic and supported by a solid work ethic, can indeed push us to achieve great things. This combination can act as a powerful engine, driving us towards our goals and helping us reach levels of excellence we might not have thought possible. However, the danger lies in letting our ambitions grow beyond what is realistically achievable. When our dreams and goals inflate to the point where they are no longer grounded, we risk s...