Window to Gilgit-Baltistan

By Syed Shams Uddin Not far from Gilgit—the provincial metropolis of Gilgit-Baltistan—lies the idyllic Bagrote Valley, a hidden gem that stands as one of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes. Nestled within a dramatic setting, Bagrote encapsulates the grandeur of Gilgit-Baltistan, offering visitors a harmonious blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. Its proximity to Gilgit, a mere 30 kilometers away, makes it an easily accessible yet serene retreat, ideal for both day trips and extended stays. Unlike other tourist destinations that require arduous journeys, Bagrote is just a short drive from the provincial capital, maintaining an untouched charm that feels as if lifted from the pages of a fairy tale. The valley's defining features include lush green meadows, crystal-clear glacial streams, and traditional wooden houses that contribute to its enchanting atmosphere. Framed by the majestic triad of Rakaposhi, Diran Peak, and Bilchar Dobani, Bagrote’s scenery is no...

By Syed Shams Uddin Observed annually on March 21, the International Day of Forests underscores the vital role forests play in sustaining life on Earth. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012, this day promotes awareness about conservation, sustainable management, and reforestation efforts to combat climate change and biodiversity loss. The Critical Role of Forests in Climate Regulation Forests cover nearly one-third of the planet's land area, acting as essential carbon sinks, regulating global temperatures, and supporting 80% of terrestrial biodiversity. They are indispensable for oxygen production, water cycle regulation, and ecosystem stability. However, rapid deforestation, land degradation, and escalating greenhouse gas emissions pose severe threats to these ecosystems. A recent BBC report, citing the United Nations, warns that one-third of the world’s glaciers could disappear by 2050 due to rising greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxid...

By Syed Shams Uddin It is indeed a moment of immense honor that the name of Zafar Viqar Taj stands included in the list of distinguished individuals set to receive national accolades on March 23 this year. Among these luminaries stands Waqar Taj, whose exceptional literary contributions have earned him the coveted Sitara-e-Imtiaz. The Sitara-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan’s third-highest civilian award, is a distinction reserved for those who have demonstrated extraordinary excellence in fields that contribute significantly to national interests, cultural heritage, global peace, and the nation’s intellectual landscape. Zafar Waqar Taj’s recognition is not only a personal triumph but a monumental milestone for the literary heritage of Gilgit-Baltistan. It becomes ascertainable that Zafar Waqar Taj’s poetic journey began in his student years, where his natural affinity for poetry flourished obviously under the tutelage of his esteemed father, Abdul Khaliq Taj, and a circle of intellectual mentors. ...

By Syed Shams Uddin The positive aspect of mental health is emphasized in the definition: "Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." It refers to a state of well-being in which an individual recognizes their own abilities, effectively manages everyday stresses, works productively, and contributes to their community. Mental health promotion is a broad concept encompassing various strategies designed to enhance mental well-being. These strategies include fostering individual skills and resources as well as improving socio-economic conditions. However, the majority of healthcare resources are allocated to specialized treatment and care for individuals with mental illnesses, with comparatively less investment in community-based treatment and rehabilitation services. Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked in public healthcare systems. Psychiatry clinical ...

By Syed Shams Uddin The Significance of Elaeagnus angustifolia in Gilgit-Baltistan: A Botanical and Historical Perspective Historical Cultivation in Gilgit-Baltistan Elaeagnus angustifolia, commonly known as the Russian olive or oleaster, has played a vital role in the agricultural and ecological history of Gilgit-Baltistan. The species was widely cultivated in areas ranging from Bunji to Astore (between 1300 to 2400 meters) in the Gilgit region. In Baltistan, this tree species has been grown from Kiris to Parkuta (2700 meters), Shigar (2600 meters), from Baghicha to Olding (2900 meters), and down to Skardu. According to famed agro-forester late Ghulam Rasul in his compendium Darakht Oogao, its natural growth has been recorded from 1800 to 3500 meters. Elaeagnus angustifolia was particularly cultivated in regions where barren land was first brought under irrigation and cultivation. One of the earliest known areas where it was extensively planted includes Jalalabad and Oshikhanda...

By Syed Shams Uddin Cedrus deodara (Diyar) – The Himalayan Cedar Cedrus deodara, commonly known as Diyar, is an indigenous conifer species well-adapted to the climatic and soil conditions of Gilgit-Baltistan. Its resilience to high-altitude environments, coupled with its ecological and economic significance, makes it a valuable tree for afforestation initiatives. Historically, a notable effort in 1942 at the Jutial nurseries successfully propagated this species, leading to an afforestation drive in Jutial Nullah. This effort was meticulously documented by the late botanist Ghulam Rasul in his 66-paged too concise a handbook Drakht Oogao (Grow Trees). However, the momentum of this initiative was lost over time, necessitating a renewed and ambitious plantation strategy to expand Diyar forests across various valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan. Potential Valleys for Cedrus deodara Expansion It becomes ascertainable that Diyar thrives in high-altitude temperate forests with well-drained soil...

Syed Shams Uddin Enhancing Walnut Cultivation in Gilgit-Baltistan through Botanical Extension Services and Grafting Techniques Introduction It becomes evident from the handbook titled Drakht Aogao, authored by the renowned botanist and agro-forester of Gilgit-Baltistan late Haji Ghulam Rasul, that walnut is scientifically known as Juglans regia. This species is classified into approximately 15 categories worldwide—one of which thrives in a humid climate or moist warm regions, while the rest are found in moisturized warm regions. Walnut grows wild at altitudes ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 feet. In Pakistan, only one variety of this species exists. The tree is sturdy, expansive, deciduous, and shady, with a wide canopy that spreads significantly as it matures. It can grow up to 45 feet in height, with a proportionate stem circumference, and has an impressive lifespan spanning several centuries. It has been observed that people in land-scarce regions like Gilgit-Baltistan avoid pl...

Syed Shams Uddin Paulownia: The Fastest-Growing, Fire-Resistant Wonder Tree A compelling Facebook post recently caught my attention, highlighting the extraordinary characteristics of Paulownia—a tree renowned as the fastest-growing species in the world. What intrigued me even more was its exceptional fire resistance, making it a uniquely valuable timber source. This prompted me to delve into its significance. This remarkable tree called Paulownia in English has repotedly gained global recognition for its rapid growth, with some species exceeding six meters in a single year. Beyond its speed, its wood is both lightweight and remarkably strong, making it highly desirable in industries such as shipbuilding, aviation, furniture manufacturing, and musical instrument production. What sets Paulownia apart is its fire-resistant nature, a crucial factor in construction and industries where durability and safety are paramount. Its straight, knot-free trunk enhances its commercial appeal, e...

By Syed Shams Uddin Abdul Sattar Edhi was a beacon of hope, compassion, and selfless service in a world often divided by wealth, status, and power. Born in 1928 in Bantva, Gujarat (British India), he migrated to Pakistan after Partition in 1947. It was in this newly formed nation that he embarked on a journey that would ultimately transform countless lives and earn him the title of the ‘greatest humanitarian’ Pakistan has ever known. Edhi’s life was one of unparalleled dedication to the welfare of humanity. When he arrived in Pakistan, he saw immense suffering and destitution. With meager resources but an unshakable resolve, he set out to make a difference. He started by purchasing a small room in Karachi, which he converted into a dispensary, providing medical assistance to the needy. Witnessing the scale of poverty and the lack of healthcare services, he expanded his work and founded the Edhi Foundation in 1951, which would go on to become the largest and most trusted philanthropic o...

SYED SHAMS UDDIN A Great Woman, A Great Deed—One That Will Be Written in Golden Letters in History for All Time There are some individuals whose kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to humanity transcend all borders, religions, and races. Their lives become a testament to selfless service, and their work continues to inspire generations long after they are gone. One such angelic soul was Dr. Ruth Pfau, a woman whose name will forever shine in the annals of history as a beacon of love, sacrifice, and humanity. Dr. Ruth Pfau arrived in Karachi in 1960, a young woman in her thirties, with an indomitable spirit and a heart brimming with compassion. Born in Germany, she could have chosen a life of comfort and privilege, but fate had ordained a different path for her. When she saw the plight of the leprosy patients in Karachi, she could not turn away. She made Pakistan her home and devoted her entire life to serving those who had been abandoned by society. At that time, leprosy...