Rajouri District Research Articles

A Thematic Exploration of Gender Inequality in the Gujjar Community of Kotranka Tehsil, Rajouri District

The study looks into the gender disparities that exist among the Gujjar clan in Kotranka Tehsil, Rajouri District in Jammu and Kashmir. It investigates the socio-cultural and economic constraints that women confront in their communities, examining how traditional norms influence their autonomy, involvement, and access to resources. Data from 35 respondents were acquired using a descriptive study method, with structured interviews and questionnaires. The research indicates considerable limitations on women's daily lives, particularly in decision-making, mobility, and educational prospects. The findings show that male dominance prevails in financial and family decisions, but social conventions continue to limit women's roles. While some respondents acknowledge a shift toward more gender-equitable practices, traditional gender norms are nonetheless deeply established, restricting women's potential and increasing dependency. Despite government efforts and changing societal perceptions, Gujjar women in Kotranka Tehsil continue to encounter obstacles as a result of established socio-cultural expectations. The study emphasizes the crucial need for comprehensive policies and community-based programs to achieve gender equality and empower women in the Gujjar tribe.

Cultural Transformation and Occupational Shifts among the Gujjar Tribe: An Analytical Study

The study explores the cultural transformation and occupational shifts among the Gujjar tribe in Rajouri District, Jammu and Kashmir. Historically pastoralists, the Gujjars have transitioned into new economic activities due to modernization, urbanization, and changing government policies. Educational advancements and emerging economic opportunities have led many within the tribe to diversify beyond livestock rearing into fields like agriculture, business, and public service. These shifts have redefined family structures, gender roles, and community dynamics, with women increasingly participating in the workforce. But, challenges such as cultural dislocation and loss of land rights persist. The study, based on qualitative research, highlights the complexities of adapting to modernity while preserving cultural identity, offering insights into how the Gujjars navigate the tension between tradition and modern change. The findings underscore the importance of sustainable development strategies that respect both cultural heritage and economic progress.

Bottleneck Effect Analysis in Indigenous Poonchi Chicken Located Near International Border of India and Pakistan

Background: Poonch is the remotest district of Jammu, India located near to line of control with Pakistan. Poonchi chicken is the first native poultry breed of Jammu region which is being characterized and registered with National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources. Present study is the first study on genetic bottleneck assessment in Poonchi chicken population using recommended microsatellite markers. This study in Poonchi chicken would be of immense use in tracing evolutionary origin and formulating effective conservation strategies for genetic diversity within breeds. Methods: Blood samples were collected randomly from Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu for DNA extraction and analysis. Microsatellite markers selected for the analysis were ADL0268, MCW0206, MCW0081, ADL0278, MCW0069, MCW0248, MCW0111, MCW0222, MCW0016 and LEI0094. To evaluate the Poonchi chicken for mutation drift equilibrium, Bottleneck software was used. Infinite allele model (IAM), two phase model of mutation (TPM) and stepwise mutation model (SMM) tests were done. Mode shift test was also used as another method of qualitative test for allele frequency. Result: Total number of alleles observed were 72, with the total number alleles ranged from 6 to 9. The results of all three models (IAM, TPM, SMM) in Sign test depicted the heterozygosity was more in the expected number of loci in Poonchi chicken as 5.97 (P less than 0.05), 5.93 (P less than 0.05), 5.90 (P less than 0.05) respectively. Whereas for Wilcoxon rank test the IAM, TPM and SMM revealed significant values of (P less than 0.05) deviation indicating that all the loci deviate from mutation-drift equilibrium. Mode shift test graph obtained depicted a slight shift from normal L-shaped curve indicating recent bottleneck effect in Poonchi chicken. This might have resulted in the loss of number of effective alleles which suggests a need of planning and implementing an effective breeding policy in order to preserve and promote this native breed.

Evaluating the Effects of Capacity Building and Training (CBT) on Sericulture Practices of Farmers in Rajouri District of Jammu and Kashmir, India

This study examines the effects of capacity building and training (CBT) on sericulture farmers in Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir UT. The research focuses on socio-economic and communication characteristics of sericulture farmers and evaluates the impact of CBT on their farming practices. A total of 25 sericulture farmers from sub-district Nowshera in Rajouri district were selected using simple random sampling. Data on registered farmers were obtained from the Department of Sericulture, Government of Jammu and Kashmir. Paired t-tests was employed to analyze the impact of CBT after implementation. The findings reveal significant improvements in various aspects of sericulture after CBT intervention. There was a notable increase in average seed intake, cocoon production, total family income, and income from sericulture. Furthermore, the mortality rate of silkworms decreased significantly after CBT training. The area under mulberry plantation and the number of mulberry plants also witnessed substantial increases post-training. Additionally, the application of disinfectant and the number of government schemes availed showed significant improvements. Overall, the study highlights the importance of CBT in enhancing the technical capabilities of sericulture farmers and improving their farming practices. The results underscore the significance of providing training in modern technology, integrated pest management, and disease management to enhance production outcomes in Sericulture.

GIS based Soil Erosion Susceptibility Mapping in Middle Himalayas using MCDM: A Case Study of Rajouri District.

The Pirpanjal range, nestled within the Himalayan region, confronts substantial soil erosion challenges owing to its diverse topography and the inherent instability of geological formations. This study focuses on the Rajouri region, to assess soil erosion susceptibility and spatially prioritize vulnerable zones. Utilizing a Geographical Information System (GIS)-based approach, we employed the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Weighted Sum Method (WSM). Various datasets, including precipitation records, geological maps, soil maps, and satellite imagery, were incorporated to derive eleven critical factors. These factors encompassed topographical derivatives; land use and land cover (LULC), soil properties, drainage patterns, rainfall data, lithological characteristics, wetness index, and the vegetative health of the area. The methodology employed yielded unbiased and reliable ratings and weightages, as substantiated by a Consistency Ratio (CR) of 0.095. The results reveal that 41% of the total area in the study region is exceedingly vulnerable to soil erosion. Slope variations range from 0 to 67.14 degrees, delineating high and very high susceptibility zones spanning 531.79 km² (19.82%) and 316.20 km² (11.78%) of the area, respectively. Additionally, assessments based on the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) underscore the severity of soil erosion, covering 40% and 25% of the highly susceptible zones, respectively. High drainage density and curvature zones were identified in 13% and 31% of the study area, respectively. This comprehensive study contributes valuable insights for the planning and implementation of effective soil conservation measures in the Rajouri region.

Assessment Of Government Initiatives To Mitigate Gender Disparity Among The Gujjar Tribe In Kotranka Tehsil, Rajouri District

Assessment Of Government Initiatives To Mitigate Gender Disparity Among The Gujjar Tribe In Kotranka Tehsil, Rajouri District

Assessment of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) Regarding Their Roles and Responsibilities in Selected Villages of a District in India: A Qualitative Study

Background: Vaccination in children against vaccine preventable diseases is an important public healthintervention. ASHAs are receiving performance-based incentives for promoting universal immunisation. A recent local outbreak of Measles in two health Blocks of Rajouri district prompted us to conduct this study. The objectives of this study were to study the awareness and perception of ASHAs regarding their roles and responsibility in delivering routine immunization services to children and to study the factors affecting their performance in delivery of routine immunization services to children.Methods: It was a qualitative study; non-probability sampling method was used for selection of subjects. Data was collected through interview and analysed using thematic framework approach.Conclusion: The study revealed that ASHAs were aware of their roles and responsibilities except few in delivery of routine immunization services to children. Delayed and Poor incentives, Lack of proper transport and hilly area were the demotivating factors. Support from community members and Health Staff, and Supportive supervision were the motivating factors for ASHAs in delivery of routine immunization service to children. Periodic training, better and timely incentives and proper transportation for ASHAs are required to augment the immunization service delivery to the children.

GIS-integrated multi-criteria suitability anal¬ysis for healthcare facilities site selection in Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, India

The study aims to develop a Decision Support model for the selection of a suitable site to establish a new healthcare center with adequate facilities based on the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. This study utilized AHP and GIS to identify an appropriate location for a new healthcare center. The study employed eight criteria to evaluate potential locations and utilized pairwise comparison to assign weights to each criterion. GIS-based spatial analysis was used to create factor and suitability maps for each criterion. Suitability was evaluated on a scale of 0 to 10 and each factor map was combined using the ArcGIS weighted overlay selection tool. The final map of the study represents the suitable site for a healthcare center in the Rajouri district and it shows the sites from the highly suitable to the least suitable area. In Rajouri district, mostly the central part can be considered very suitable as the population density of this area is higher compared to other areas of the district. The southwestern parts of the district are moderately suitable or least suitable sites for a new healthcare center. The study displays the pattern of the existing location of healthcare centers, mostly, the existing locations are not proper and suitable. Therefore, in the future, the allocation of healthcare centers must be in more adequate areas. Policymakers and healthcare professionals can be benefitted from this study in selecting suitable locations for future hospitals, which could ultimately improve access to healthcare services in the region. Additionally, the study can be contemplated in developing new policies for better transportation system in the study area.

Remunerative Potential of Small Ruminants (Sheep and Goat) under Rainfed Conditions in the Jammu Region of South Asia

Background: India has large rainfed area in her possession, rather, India is holding first position in the possession of rainfed area. At the same time, India has large share of small ruminants (sheep and goats) in her stockpile of livestock. This paper is an effort towards finding out the mutual compatibility between the two. Methods: The study was conducted during 2020-21 in the rainfed areas of Jammu region, in three main districts i.e., Kathua, Udhampur and Rajouri, respectively. The technique of production function was applied to ascertain the resource use efficiency so as to find out the inputs that yielded maximum returns to the farmers. In addition, linear programming was applied so as to find out the optimisation of returns, respectively. Result: Profitability was found to be higher for Rajouri district (Rs. 12.79 per ruminant per day). ‘Selling of mutton’ formed the major component of gross returns in Kathua and Udhampur district, respectively. Production function analysis revealed ‘concentrates’ (0.219) in Kathua district and ‘labour’ (3.559) in Udhampur district as the important inputs in the small ruminant’s enterprise. The labour was found in large numbers there, but there is paucity of training of labour. In this regard, the paper recommends the proper training measures for the labour engaged in this enterprise. Moreover, there is large variations (as depicted by linear programming) in the optimisation of the inputs (cash outlay and labour requirements) within the districts and this needs to be adjusted appropriately. These adjustments need to be made so that small ruminant’s enterprise can act as the bulwark against the looming threat of climate variations.

Perceived stress, anxiety and depression : Living along the border in Jammu and Kashmir.

Conflicts adversely affect psychological well-being and are associated with mental disorders. The study aims to assess the levels of perceived stress, anxiety and depression and their association with demographic factors among the youth in the border villages of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). A cross-sectional study was conducted among youth aged 18 to 25 years. The sample consisted of 300 individuals from the border villages of J&K. Of these, 150 individuals were from the villages located near the International Border (IB) in the Jammu district, and 150 individuals were from the villages near the Line Of Control (LOC) in the Rajouri district. Perceived Stress scale (PSS), Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD7), and Public Health Questionnaire (PHQ9) scales were used to determine the levels of perceived stress, depression, and anxiety. Mann Whitney, Chi-square and Odds ratio analysis were performed to assess the levels of the indicators and their association with demographic factors. 94% of the respondents had perceived stress, 34.46% anxiety and 31% depression. Perceived stress, anxiety and depression were significantly higher among the LOC youth than IB youth (p < .00*). The LOC youth with an educational status below graduation level were found to be more anxious (p = .034) and more depressed (p = .003) than those with the educational status of graduation and above. The youth whose main activity was that of a student were found to be more depressed than the employed and unemployed youth (p = .000). Perceived stress, anxiety, and depression were prevalent among the youth in border villages. These were found to be significantly higher among youth in border villages on the LOC. The findings suggest that education level has a significant impact on the mental health of the youth.

Potential and Opportunities of Non-Timber Forest Products for Rural Livelihood Generation in Nowshera Forest Division, Rajouri District

Potential and Opportunities of Non-Timber Forest Products for Rural Livelihood Generation in Nowshera Forest Division, Rajouri District

Indigenous Knowledge and Perception of Local People towards Biodiversity Conservation in Rajouri District of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Plant resources have been used by humans for their wellbeing for ages. Tribal communities live in far flung areas in close proximity with forests and have a rich cultural heritage and traditional knowledge of forest resources. The present study was carried out in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir to document the traditional knowledge of plant usage and local perception towards biodiversity conservation. A total of 86 informants were selected through non-probability sampling using a convenience sampling method based on easy access, availability and relevance of informants. During the present study, a total of 92 plant species belonging to 85 genera and 57 families were recorded. Fabaceae and Rosaceae were found to be dominant families. In terms of growth forms, herbaceous species were dominant, followed by trees. Leaves were the most common parts used, followed by fruits. These plant species are used for different purposes such as medicine, edibles, fodder and dye making. A number of plant species were found to be multipurpose in use. Most of the documented plant species are collected by local people from the wild. Local people perceived that the populations of many species, such as Dolomiaea costus, Dioscorea deltoidea and Dolomiaea macrocephala, have declined in recent decades. Climate change, urbanization, deforestation, pollution, overexploitation and species invasion are some of the major threats to biodiversity perceived by the local people. Therefore, the establishment of protected areas and cultivation of wild species are recommended to safeguard forest wealth of the area. Furthermore, mass awareness and cooperation-building programs are highly recommended so that locals can enthusiastically participate in conservation and management programs.

Community composition, population structureand regeneration potential of tree species in Oak-dominated mixed forests of Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir, India.

Community composition, population structureand regeneration potential of tree species in Oak-dominated mixed forests of Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir, India.

Community composition, population structureand regeneration potential of tree species in Oak-dominated mixed forests of Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir, India.

Community composition, population structureand regeneration potential of tree species in Oak-dominated mixed forests of Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir, India.

Status of particulate matter in the indoor air of residential units of Sunderbani area of Rajouri district (J&amp;K), India

Air pollution is currently the greatest environmental threat to human health and one of the fastest growing issues on the global health agenda. The extremely fine particulate matter (aerodynamic diameter &lt; 2.5 microns) is of greatest concern because the particles can penetrate deep into human lungs and enter the bloodstream. The elderly, asthmatics and immune-deficient population are the most vulnerable with the increasing levels of particulate matter. The present study was conducted to assess the concentration of size-segregated Indoor Particulate Matter (PM2.5, PM1.0, PM0.50, PM0.25) in Sunderbani, Rajouri, J&amp;K. The average values of PM2.5, PM1.0, PM0.50, and PM0.25 were reported as 110.36µg/m3, 180.50µg/m3, 276.99µg/m3 and 445.93µg/m3 respectively in the sampled households of the study area. The average value of PM2.5 in the study area was found to be above the permissible limits of 60µg/m3 given by central pollution control board (CPCB). This was the first study on concentration of size-segregated particulate matter in the indoor environment of study area and the data obtained from the study will serve as baseline data for future studies in the area.

Rural Heritage for Sustainable Development: A Gandhian Perspective in Rajouri District, Jammu and Kashmir

Chingus, an almost mountainous village of district Rajouri, falls under Jammu province of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. The village is replete with local heritage which includes culinary heritage and handicrafts. Though rich in heritage, it cannot be considered as a sustainably developed area. Identification and utilisation of its available heritage can be helpful in its sustainable development. Years ago, Mahatma Gandhi also laid stress on the utilisation of local heritage for sustainable development. When it comes to the identification and utilisation of local heritage of Chingus, the local communities (Gujjars/ Bakarwals/ Paharies) of the area can do a lot. But, the locals would not come forward on their own. They must be channelised by local government and other government/private or non-profit agencies. Such channelisation would help in making Chingus, a self-reliant village, thus, giving practical shape to the Gandhian dream of self reliant villages. Moreover, establishment of ‘Mahatma Gandhi Museum of Heritage’ would make the process of sustainable development of Chingus more speedy.

ROLE OF INDIAN ARMY IN PROMOTION OF EDUCATION IN UNION TERRITORY OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Education plays a significant role in individual life. We cannot expect a life without education. It is the education which makes the life of individual perfect and complete. Defence forces play a very important role in national building. It provides safety and security to the people. Indian army saves us from internal as well as external threats. India is a sovereign state and as a sovereign state among the world community, we have to maintain our strength in search of own security needs. As we know Indian army is full of well-deserved persons. Indian army is a patriotic force. Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir has more defence forces as comparison to other states and Union territories of India. The major purpose of this research is: to highlight the role of Indian army in promotion of education, to identify the problems faced by Indian army in promotion of education and to suggest remedial measures to overcome the problems faced by Indian army in promotion of education. The sample consisted of 400 people of Rajouri district. To collect the data for the present study the investigator used the self-made tool namely questionnaire to know the role of Indian army in promotion of education. The investigator has used percentage to analyses the data. The outcome of the research investigation had shown that Indian army plays a significant role in promotion of education. But there is need that both central as well state Governments provides necessary financial help to Indian army so that it helps a lot for the development of education.

Delineation of aquifers favorable for groundwater development using Schlumberger configuration resistivity survey techniques in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, India

The primary goal of this research is to demarcate aquifers favorable for groundwater development in the border district of Rajouri, in the Union Territory of Jammu, and Kashmir, in order to secure a long-term water supply. The Schlumberger configuration resistivity survey technique Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) is used to investigate the characteristics of the subsurface layer and the potential of groundwater by using 30 VES sites in order to establish the optimum sites for digging a successful borehole for the qualitative and quantitative interpretations in the study area. It is determined that real resistivity values of subsurface geoelectric layers less than 35 Ohm m indicate the existence of finer sediments, whilst moderate resistivity values ranging from 35 to 100 Ohm m suggest the presence of coarser sediments favorable for groundwater development. The resistivity value between 100 and 200 Ohm m indicates weathered formation, 200–400 Ohm m, indicates fractured rock and more than 400 Ohm m represents hard formation which is devoid of any kind of groundwater development. The bedrock resistivity, nature of the curve, and overburden thickness are the parameters utilized to choose a good site for drilling tests. Based on the criteria, it was determined that nine VES sites (VES-2, VES-3, VES-4, VES-6, VES-17, VES-18, VES-19, VES-28, and VES-30) are appropriate for the installation of a tube well for irrigation and domestic purposes. The 8 sites (VES-14, VES-15, VES-20, VES-21, VES-22, VES-23, VES-24, and VES-27) were not suitable because of compact formation and harder rocks whereas the 13 VES sites (VES- 1, VES-5, VES-7, VES-8, VES-9, VES-10, VES-11, VES-12, VES-13, VES-16, VES-25, VES-26, VES-29) are partially suitable for groundwater development and only suitable for personal uses such as hand pump of shallow depth.

Economics and Resource Use Efficiency of Wheat Crop: Findings from Jammu Region of Jammu &amp; Kashmir

Economics of wheat crop revealed that, the cost-benefit ratio was found out to be highest in case of Jammu district and the least in case of Udhampur district. The overall yield of the wheat crop worked out to be 5.92, highest yield found out to be in the Jammu district and lowest in the Rajouri district. Production function analysis revealed that wheat crop yielded constant returns to scale. In addition, variables like human labour, machine labour, fertiliser, manure, etc. proved to be positively significant that could influence the yields of the wheat crop. Except Udhampur district, mustard crop in the rest of the district experienced constant returns to scale. Moreover, variables like machine labour, manure and fertiliser worked out to be significant. On the other hand, in the Udhampur district, rice crop revealed the increasing returns to scale and the rest of the districts showed the constant returns to scale. Human labour, plant protection chemicals and manure came out to be significant. Therefore, such input variables need to be taken care of accordingly.

Economics and Resource-Use Efficiency of Wheat Crop under Rainfed Conditions in the Jammu Region of Jammu &amp; Kashmir

Economics of wheat crop revealed that, the cost-benefit ratio was found out to be highest in case of Jammu district and the least in case of Udhampur district. Consequently, the family labour income and farm business income were found in that order respectively. The overall yield of the wheat crop worked out to be 5.92, highest yield found out to be in the Jammu district and lowest in the Rajouri district. Similarly, the cost-benefit ratio was found maximum in the Jammu district, followed by Rajouri district, Udhampur district and finally by Kathua district. Production function analysis revealed that wheat crop yielded constant returns to scale. In addition, variables like human labour, machine labour, fertiliser, manure, etc. proved to be positively significant that could influence the yields of the wheat crop. Except Udhampur district, mustard crop in the rest of the district experienced constant returns to scale. Moreover, variables like machine labour, manure and fertiliser worked out to be significant. On the other hand, in the Udhampur district, rice crop revealed the increasing returns to scale and the rest of the districts showed the constant returns to scale. Human labour, plant protection chemicals and manure came out to be significant. Therefore, such input variables need to be taken care of accordingly.