Doda District Research Articles

Lavender Cultivation and Jammu and Kashmir 'S First Purple Revolution

Lavender cultivation has emerged as a transformative agricultural practice in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Doda district, owing to the success of the Aroma Mission initiated by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). This initiative, also referred to as the "Purple Revolution," has placed a spotlight on the commercial potential of aromatic farming. This paper explores the contribution of Jasbir Singh Kotwal, an engineering student at Jamia Millia Islamia Delhi and a native of village Pora bala ,tehsil Gandoh Bhalessa in Doda district, who has played a pivotal role in introducing lavender cultivation to his hometown. Kotwal’s unique approach merges his academic background in engineering with traditional agricultural methods, driving both economic growth and sustainable agricultural development in his local community.

Assessing seasonal changes in water quality using various indices in Chenab River and its tributaries (J&K)

The present study involves the analysis of thirteen physiochemical parameters (pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, turbidity, alkalinity, hardness, calcium, magnesium, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, sulphate and nitrate) and five heavy metals (chromium, zinc, arsenic, lead and cadmium) from Chenab River and its tributaries (Neeru and Bichleri) at Ramban and Doda district, J&K. The analysis was done for two different seasons i.e. summer (June) and winter (December), 2022. The current investigation indicated that all the physiochemical parameters were in the permissible limit in both the seasons except few parameters (Ca, Mg, turbidity). In the analysis of heavy metals in both the seasons, it was found that there was no heavy metal contamination in all sampling sites except the Cr concentration which was found to be higher in all sites (except SXII) in summer season. The detailed analysis involved the calculation of various water quality indices which graded water quality under ‘good’ category as per WQI value whereas CPI and HPI value showed moderate to high pollution level in water during summer season. The study showed the seasonal variation in water quality parameters and thus encourage the need for regular monitoring of water quality to reduce pollution level.

Online Learning for a Tribal Child During the Pandemic: A Study from Jammu and Kashmir in India

The present study was conducted on the perceptions of tribal children toward online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The objectives of the present study were to find out the perceptions of tribal children about online learning during the pandemic. The data was collected from the tribal children of the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. The investigator collected data from the 100 tribal children of elementary schools which includes (50 male and 50 female tribal children). The data were collected with the help of a self-made questionnaire. The interpretation of data was done with the help of percentage analysis of statistical techniques. The finding of the study revealed that overall, the majority of tribal children have a very negative attitude towards online learning during the pandemic. Almost the majority of tribal children do not like the online learning system. At the same time, the tribal children preferred and considered on-school education more effective and successful than online learning. The study also states that the tribal children faced a lot of challenges and problems in their education during the pandemic. These challenges and problems include internet connection problems, electricity problems, financial problems, lack of technological skills among tribal children, etc. Overall, a greater number of tribal children are of the view that online learning does not fulfill their learning satisfaction level.

Some Additions to the List of Plants of Doda District of Jammu & Kashmir

The paper lists an additional 56 species of flowering plants for Doda district of Jammu & Kashmir. The collections pertain to the Bhaderwah proper and its outskirts forming the part of Bhaderwah tehsil.

Material for a Flora of the Doda District of Jammu and Kashmir State

The paper presents a preliminary catalogue of the Doda District of Jamrjtm and Kashmir State. This mountainous district lies between 74°30' & 76°30' N and 32° 30' & 34°15' E and covers ail area of about 11212 sq km embracing areas between 700-4600 m. A total of 432 species belonging to 263 genera is recorded in the present catalogue. The paper provides material for writing a flora of the District Which will ultimately be helpful for a proper appraisal of plant resources of the area.

Enhancing Productivity and Profitability of Mash through Front Line Demonstration

The study was carried out during kharif season of 2020 and 2021 in 7 villages across 2 blocks (Bhalla and Bhaderwah) of Doda district. In all 100 frontline demonstrations on Mash crop were carried out in anarea of 20.0 ha with the active participations of farmers with the objective to demonstrate the latest technology of Mash production potential, technological gap, extension gap, technology index and economic benefit of improved technologies. Cluster frontline demonstration is one of the important tools for transfer of technology and this program is being implemented through Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s of country. CFLD’s are organized on improved production technology at farmer’s field. This process not only helps in demonstrating the ways and means ofincreasing productivity but helps in obtaining feed back for further refinement of the production technology. The results revealed that CFLD recorded higher yield as compared to farmer’s practices over the two years of study. The improved technologies recorded average yield of 5.05 q/ha which was 34.71% higher than the obtained with farmer’s practices of 3.81q/ha. In spite of increase in yield of Mash, technological gap, extension gap and technology index existed which was 4.95 q/ha, 1.23 q/ha and 49.5%, respectively.

Empowering Youth Through Education: A Comprehensive Analysis of Impact in Doda District, Jammu and Kashmir

This paper explores the multifaceted impact of education on youth and development in Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir. Through a comprehensive analysis of various dimensions including literacy rates, access to education, quality of education, socio-economic development, empowerment of youth, gender equality, conflict resolution, and skills development, it delves into the intricate relationship between education and societal advancement. Drawing on empirical data and qualitative insights, the study elucidates the role of education in fostering personal growth, enhancing economic opportunities, promoting social cohesion, and empowering marginalized communities. It highlights the importance of addressing challenges such as limited access to education, gender disparities, and the need for quality education in ensuring sustainable development and peacebuilding efforts in Doda district. By synthesizing findings from diverse sources, this paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the transformative power of education in shaping the lives of youth and fostering inclusive development in conflict-affected regions.

Women political participation through panchayats in J&K: A case study of Doda District

Women political participation through panchayats in J&K: A case study of Doda District

Role of Youth in Education and its Impact on Development in District Doda, Jammu and Kashmir

The mountainous region of India has been at the mercy of political turmoil for years, and on-going conflicts have limited access to quality learning environments. Without proper access to education and resources, many of Doda District's youth are unable to reach their fullest potential or even participate in basic levels of development. In this , we're exploring the impact of education on youth and development in Doda District, Jammu and Kashmir. We're going to uncover how lack of education has impacted the region's economic and social growth while examining current initiatives that are creating change. The on the title focuses on how to improve the development and participation of youth in the field of education. There are so many challenges faced by the people in the area in the shape of terrorism that stops the youth’s participation in the system of education and development that is why we need to protect both the development and education so we can get the peace, prosperity, brotherhood, harmony, tolerance and defence. It is the education through which we gain peace that leads to development and awareness of the positivity. The government has also introduced the New Education Policy Model which is a curriculum-based educational programmed for the betterment of children. This programmed focuses on developing the cognitive, physical and social skills of children. The region has also developed a Child Friendly School (CFS) concept, which seeks to provide quality education to children from lower-income families. CFSs are supported by the government and have teachers who are specially trained in early childhood education. Jammu and Kashmir has taken significant steps to ensure that all children have access to quality education. The initiatives mentioned above have helped the state to become one of the leading providers of ECE in India.

Educational Analysis on Youth and Development in Doda District of Jammu and Kashmir

Early Childhood Education (ECE) in India is a relatively new concept and has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is based on the belief that a child's formative years are the most important for his/her development. The focus of ECE in India is to provide children with a holistic, meaningful, and holistic learning experience. This experience is achieved through interactive, play-based activities that help the child to explore the world around them and develop their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. In India, the Ministry of Education has been spearheading efforts to promote ECE. They have launched several initiatives and schemes such as the New Education Policy and the National Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme (NECCES) to promote access to ECE services. The government also provides financial assistance to schools, NGOs, and private institutions to open and run ECE centers. To ensure quality ECE, the government has drafted guidelines and regulations for ECE centers. These include standards for teacher qualifications, curriculum and assessment, physical infrastructure and environment, and safety and health standards. The government has also set up an accreditation system for ECE centers to recognize quality and ensure accountability. In addition to government initiatives, there are a number of NGOs, private institutions, and corporate organizations that are making efforts to promote ECE in India. These organizations are working to provide access to quality ECE and to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood education. Jammu and Kashmir have long been at the forefront of Early Childhood Education (ECE) in India.

Diversity of wild edible plants and fungi consumed by semi-nomadic Gaddi and Sippi tribes in Doda district of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir

Background: Consumption of Wild edible plants (WEPs) is a cultural heritage of tribal and other rural communities. WEPs have a vital role to play not only in ensuring nutritional security and combating malnutrition but also in meeting medicinal requirements, income generation for these communities, and crop improvement through plant breeding programmes. The present study was conducted with the objective of documenting traditional knowledge and practices of utilizing WEPs by Gaddi and Sippi tribes of Doda district of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (JKUT). Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in five villages of Doda district (JKUT) inhabited by Gaddi and Sippi tribes. The random sampling method was used for the selection of informants. The data was collected through interviews and focused group discussion with the informants as per semi-structured schedules. The uses of WEPs were recorded as use-reports, and culture importance value (CI) and factor informant consensus (Fic) were calculated from these values. Results: A total of 77 species spread across 58 genera and 39 families were reported by 203 informants (148 males and 55 females). Angiosperms represented by 63 species were the major source of forest foods followed by 9 fungal species. WEPs with the highest number of species were vegetables (34 species), and fruits and nutraceuticals (27 species each). The most important species on the basis of CI were Geopora arenicola (Lev.) Kers. (CI = 0.66), Geopora sumneriana (Cooke) M. Torre. (0.60), Diplazium esculentum (Retz.) Sw. (0.56), Diplazium frondosum C. Chr. (0.54), and Mentha arvensis C. Presl. (0.52). Values of F­ic ranged between 0.91 (nutraceuticals) and 0.99 (cooked WEPs). The knowledge of WEPs significantly increased with age and decreased with education level of the informants. Conclusions: The Gaddi and Sippi tribes are utilizing a good number of WEPs, and more importantly they exchange this information among themselves. As far as future prospects of this study are concerned, nutritional and nutraceutical properties of species like Anethum sowa, Arisaema propinquum, Diplazium frondosum, Dipsacus inermis, Elaeagnus umbellate, Elwendia persica, Geopora sumneriana, Impatiens glandulifera, Morchella crassipes, Morchella conica, Prinsepia utilis, Sageretia thea, Solanum villosum, Thymus mongolicus, and Ziziphus oxyphylla may be studied to make them popular amongst masses. Keywords: Ethnobotany; Fungi; Gaddi and Sippi tribes; wild edible plants.

Knowledge and Practice of Menstrual Hygiene and Reproductive Tract Infection in Adolescent Girls in Doda District of Jammu and Kashmir Territories, India

Objective: To assess knowledge and practices regarding menstrual hygiene and reproductive tract infection in adolescent girls in Doda District of Jammu and Kashmir Territories, India.Methodology: This cross-sectional study was performed on adolescent girls attending schools in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir territories, India. Data were collected through interviews using a predesigned semi-structured questionnaire and results were analyzed using MS Excel.Results: A total of 450 adolescent girls from public and private schools of Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir were included in this study. Most participants were in the 14-16 years of age. The most common source of information about menstruation identified in this study was mother (56.2%), sister (13.1%), teacher (12.7%), and friends (9.6%). In terms of menstrual hygiene, 53.1% girls used sanitary pads, 24% girls used dry cloths/towel and 10.7% girls used homemade and sanitary pads during their menstrual period. About 42% of the participant were absent from school during their menses and most participants take daily bath during their menses.Conclusion: Awareness regarding menstruation and menstrual hygiene needs to be improved with the emphasize on providing accurate and adequate information on this topic to adolescent girls. Information and provision on affordable absorbent napkins or pads during menstrual period are also important for these girls.

Climate Change and Livelihood Vulnerability of Rural Households: A Case Study from Doda District of Jammu and Kashmir, India

The study of vulnerability arising due to climate change is one of the most important aspects which requires a comprehensive discussion and understanding. The Vulnerability was originally conceived by Geographers to study calamities like hazards, famines, etc. One of the most important tools to access the vulnerability of any area is the Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI). This paper tries to analyze the vulnerability of rural households to climate change by constructing the LVI. Doda district is large, so for this study two blocks namely Doda and Bhaderwah were taken and the sample size was 300. The overall LVI for the whole study area out to be considered moderate in terms of livelihood vulnerability. In terms of blocks, the LVI of Doda is 0.413 whereas the LVI of Bhaderwah is 0.408. Among the capitals, households were most vulnerable in terms of Financial capital (0.448) followed by followed by Physical capital (0.426), Social capital (0.410), Human capital (0.386) and lastly Natural capital (0.377). As per local households, livelihood vulnerability was mainly because of poor infrastructures, limited education and healthcare and inadequate knowledge and skills in income generating activities. The impact of climate change on the components has shown an increasing trend during the last decades and if proper measures are not taken, the vulnerability will increase in the future. The study will help policymakers to frame policies so as to reduce the vulnerability of rural households and provide them better living environment.

Educational Attainment, Literacy and Health Status of Scheduled Caste Students in Jammu and Kashmir

The issue of the reservation system and its impression on scheduled castes and scheduled tribes have generated considerable debate. It is crucial to comprehend how far the scheduled castes, a socially marginalized minority, fall behind the rest of India in terms of human development. This article aims to examine the many human development elements, such as the educational attainment of the scheduled caste community in Jammu and Kashmir. Secondary data have been gathered for this purpose from the Chief Educational Office Doda and Unified District Information for the Education System. The population and literacy data eventually came from the Census 2011, and the health data came from the National Family Health Survey (2019–2020). This study displays the literacy and health-related elements of the scheduled caste population. The study also relates the scheduled caste status to other social groups in Jammu and Kashmir.

Impact of Climate Change on Gujjar and Bakarwal Communities of Jammu and Kashmir

Climate change is a global issue that affects everyone. It has been estimated that the developing nations will suffer the most from the effects of climate change. The underdeveloped nations will most likely experience the negative effects of climate variability. They are more susceptible to climate change due to their low adaptive capacity. This study has found the impact of climate change on the Gujjar and Bajarwals of Jammu and Kashmir. The present study is based on the primary data collected from 507 respondents of Thanala village of Bhaderah tehsil of Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. The data was collected using survey questionnaire and was analysed through various statistical tools to draw results. The pastoralist community is one of the many communities that were most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Modernization was identified as the major cause behind climatic changes. Climate change and the livelihood patterns of pastoralists are interlinked with each other. This relationship is not only linked to the traditional adaptation strategies but also to the level of land-use change.

Diagnostic Accuracy between CBNAAT, TrueNat, and Smear Microscopy for Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Doda District of Jammu and Kashmir- A Comparative Study

Introduction: The need for fast, precise diagnostic tests to identify active tuberculosis is essential, mainly in endemic nations such as India. An automated real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method for pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) detection known as the Cartridge Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CBNAAT) or GeneXpert assay shows great promise as a complement to the TrueNat and conventional sputum microscopy techniques. Aim: To compare sensitivity, specificity, Positive Predictive Value (PPV), and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) of CBNAAT with TrueNat and smear microscopy in the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study on 175 patients with suspected pulmonary TB was conducted from June 2021 to November 2021 in a tertiary care hospital at Government Medical College, Doda Jammu and Kashmir. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and diagnostic accuracy for the diagnosis of tuberculosis were calculated for Acid Fast Bacilli (AFB) smear microscopy, TrueNat, and the GeneXpert and compared with each other. Statistical analysis of the data was conducted with Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: Out of the total 175, 168 (96%) patients were TB positive by CBNAAT, 162 (92.6%) by TrueNat, and 148 (84.6%) as per smear microscopy. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy of Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) stain in the detection of pulmonary TB in sputum samples were 86.31%, 57.14%, 97.97%, 14.81%, and 85.14%, respectively. Whereas in the case of the TrueNat technique sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy were 94.05%, 42.86%, 97.53%, 23.08%, and 92.00%. In the case of CBNAAT sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy in the detection of pulmonary TB in sputum samples were 97.02%, 28.57%, 97.02%, 28.57%, and 94.29%, respectively. Conclusion: In respiratory samples, CBNAAT is more sensitive than ZN smear microscopy and TrueNat. Positive CBNAAT, but TrueNat and AFB microscopy negative results should be read cautiously and be well correlated with the clinical and treatment history of the patient.

Preferences of rural youth towards fisheries vocations in Doda District of Jammu Division, Jammu and Kashmir, India

The preferences of rural youth towards different fisheries vocations have been assessed using the Thurstone paired comparison technique. Six major fisheries vocations which trainings were imparted to the rural youth by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Doda during 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 were identified. A sample of 94 rural youth was randomly drawn from 940 rural youth who attended various awareness programmes, training programmes and exposure visits organised by KVK Doda independently or in collaboration with National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Hyderabad and Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research (DCFR), Bhimtal during these three years. Trout culture with the highest scale value of 0.563 was the most preferred fishery vocation by the rural youth and aquarium making was the least preferred with scale value of 0.00. Other vocations viz., carp culture, fish seed production, ornamental fish production and fish feed production were found in between this continuum with varying degrees of the scale distances. The average value of Absolute Discrepancy (AD) estimated was 0.009, which implies that the calculated scale values of the various fisheries vocations had very high level of consistency.

Prevalence of vector borne diseases in Jammu Division, Jammu and Kashmir, India.

Jammu and Kashmir is bestowed upon by great climatic condition favourable for people but the vectors have utilised these conditions to gain access into the state. Vector Borne Diseases (VBDs) were restricted to the spread of malaria and dengue since past two decades, but now, these diseases have widened their geographical reach and in last six years chikungunya, leishmaniasis and Japanese encephalitis have been reported from the state. These VBDs are a threat to thousands of people in the state as they cause huge mortality and morbidity under extreme cases. A hospital-based survey on the VBDs was carried out with the aim of studying the prevalence of major VBD found in the Jammu district taking into account the past records provided by the Directorate of Health Services, Jammu. The study revealed that malaria, in the past 14 years, has now shown a clear declining trend and dengue cases have shown a very uneven trend with maximum cases in 2013. Leishmaniasis was reported for the first time in the division in 2013, while it was not until 2016 when single case of chikungunya was reported from Jammu division. First outbreak of Japanese encephalitis in the region occurred during 2018 from only Doda district. The present study showed that despite having congenial environmental conditions, Jammu division faces a great threat of VBDs and the increase in the number of cases in future cannot be ruled out. Japanese encephalitis registered its presence for the first time in the division.

Additions to the List of Polypores to India

Five species of the pileate polypore fungi, Ganoderma ungulatum (Polyporales, Ganodermataceae), Gloeophyllum odoratum (Gloeophyllales, Gloeophyllaceae) Heterobasidion abietinum (Russulales, Bondarzewiaceae), Osmoporus mexicanus (Gloeophyllales, Gloeophyllaceae) and Oxyporus ravidus (Hymenochaetales, Schizoporaceae) are described and illustrated on the basis of basidiocarps collected during the rainy season of years 2015-2017 from different parts of Doda district (Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India). Of these, the first four species are being described and illustrated for the first time from India, whereas Oxyporus ravidus is a new record for Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Being the key wood decayers, these fungi grow in association with both broad-leaved as well as conifer tree species. Of the species described, the basidiocarps of Ganoderma ungulatum were collected from Quercus sp., whereas rest of the four species were growing in association with gymnospermous wood. Among the five species described presently, Heterobasidion abietinum is a host specific polypore that grows only in association with wood of Abies spp. These polypores are responsible for different types of rot and play a significant role in the recycling of different types of material. Of the described species, Ganoderma ungulatum Heterobasidion abietinum and Oxyporus ravidus are reported to cause white rot whereas Gloeophyllum odoratum and Osmoporus mexicanus are responsible for brown rot.

Vaccination coverage and its determinants in rural areas of district Doda of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Background: India accounts for the highest number of under-five deaths in the world. Estimates claim that 89 lakh children in India receive fewer vaccines or no vaccine at all. One out of every three children in India does not receive all vaccines under the universal immunization programme. 5% children in urban and 8% children in rural areas remain unimmunized. According to NFHS-4 data complete vaccination coverage in India stands at 62%. The objectives of this study were to evaluate complete vaccination coverage, dropout rate and identify factors for failure of vaccination coverage in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir, state of India.Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted to evaluate the complete vaccination coverage by using an interview schedule devised as per WHO-UNICEF coverage cluster survey reference manual and National Immunization Schedule. A pre-determined sample size according to the WHO-UNICEF coverage cluster survey reference manual was adopted for the purpose of the study.Results: Of the total 207 children included in the study 66.2% (n=137) were fully immunized. 19.8% of the children had dropped out and did not receive the recommended dose of pentavalent vaccine. Among the reasons for low complete vaccination coverage, lack of awareness, mother too busy and vaccinator being absent were identified as the major reasons.Conclusions: Complete vaccination coverage has shown an increase with an increase in the coverage of the individual vaccines. But the coverage is still low and more efforts are needed to further improve the vaccination coverage.