Calls for Heritage, Environmental Conservation And Collective Action for Sustainable Development in Kashmir
Srinagar, Jan 10 : Unveiling the 2025 Islamic Calligraphy Calendar at Jama Masjid today, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq emphasized that this art form reflects the beauty and expression of human imagination and connects us to the eternal wisdom of the Word of Allah through the Quran. Mirwaiz said that the theme for the year- The Splendour of Islamic Calligraphy, celebrates the art forms historical evolution, its diversity and cross cultural influences. The calendar is a tribute to Arabic calligraphy, the medium of Quranic revelation, foregrounding the connect between spirituality and our cultural heritage.
Addressing the gathering he said that safeguarding our heritage and our environment and ecology- which are all interconnected , is important as they all define our identity, our culture and our future survival as a people .Citing a Hadith of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), Mirwaiz emphasized that caring for Allah’s creations, protecting nature and avoiding wastage, are integral to a Muslim’s duty. Highlighting environmental concerns in the wake lowest water levels of Jhelum river in history of Kashmir at this time due to rising temperatures, glacial melting and irregular rainfall patterns, Mirwaiz said that experts warn that Jammu and Kashmir has lost 30% of its glaciers in the past 60 years, with the possibility of losing 70% by the end of the century if this trend continues. This will be devastating if allowed to happen. He further noted that unchecked and unplanned urbanisation, rapidly consuming agricultural land and orchards, and so forth are lopsided and narrow definitions of so called “development“. While growth is necessary, it must not come at the cost of disruption to the environment and ecology. Striking a balance is key, while foregrounding ecological and climatic concerns to protect the natural resources and beauty of Kashmir for future generations.
He called upon the government, the civil society, and all people in general to take accountability and collective action to address these challenges and protect Kashmir’s natural and cultural heritage.
Concluding his statement, Mirwaiz prayed for guidance from Allah toward wisdom and understanding in fulfilling these responsibilities. He also stressed upon the urgent need for the government to have a vision and follow it up with a proper road map and comprehensive planning to address these critical issues and ensure sustainable development in the region.
Meanwhile Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid has informed that physical copies of the calendar would be available at Jamia Masjid Srinagar, Gulshan Books Residency Road & Sheikh Mohammad Usman & Sons Gaw Kadal starting early next week against a nominal Hadiya of ₹ 75.
