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Chinar Boat Race
Why in News?
Recently, the famous Chinar boat race 2024 was organised in Jammu and Kashmir’s Dal Lake by the Indian Army.
Key Points
- About the Race:
- The Indian Army, in collaboration with White Globe NGO and the Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), successfully organised the Chinar Boat Race 2024.
- A total of 60 boats competed enthusiastically, reflecting the vibrant cultural traditions of Kashmir.
- Winners and Awards:
- First Prize: Cash prize of Rs 10,000 and a trophy.
- Second Prize: Rs 7,500.
- Third Prize: Rs 5,000.
- Consolation Prizes: Distributed to the top 20 participants to recognise their efforts.
- Purpose and Message:
- The event celebrated the rich culture and tradition of Kashmir.
- It highlighted the importance of protecting Kashmir’s water bodies, especially Dal Lake.
- Fostered a sense of community through traditional sports, promoting ecological health.
- Army's Role in J&K:
- The Indian Army continues to organise sports and cultural events to strengthen ties with the local population.
- These efforts enable the Army to serve the community effectively during natural disasters like earthquakes and floods.
- Such events inspire local youth to pursue honourable professions, including joining the Army.
- The Indian Army continues to organise sports and cultural events to strengthen ties with the local population.
Dal Lake
- It is a lake in Srinagar, the capital of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
- It is one of the world's largest natural lakes and the second largest lake in J&K.
- It is integral to tourism and recreation in Kashmir and is named the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir” or “Srinagar’s Jewel”.
- It is also an important source for commercial operations in fishing and water plant harvesting.
- It covers an area of 18 square kilometres and is part of a natural wetland including its floating gardens.
- The floating gardens, known as “Raad” in Kashmiri, blossom with lotus flowers during July and August.
Chinar Tree
- About:
- The Chinar, also known as the Oriental plane, is a large, deciduous tree that is native to the Western Himalayas and is a symbol of Kashmir.
- It is an important part of Kashmiri culture and tradition. There is a Chinar tree in almost every village in Kashmir, and the oldest Chinar in Kashmir is over 600 years old.
- Appearance:
- The Chinar tree has maple-like leaves that are deep green in the summer and change to red, amber, and yellow in the fall. It has a spreading crown and flaking bark.
- Uses:
- The leaves and bark of Chinar are used for medicinal purposes.
- The wood, also known as lacewood, is used to make fine furniture.
- Twigs and roots are used to make fabric dye.
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Public Durbar in Kathua
Why in News?
Recently, the Union Minister of Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions conducted a "Public Durbar" in block Marheen, district Kathua of Jammu and Kashmir.
- It is part of his outreach initiative, in which he directly engaged with the public to address their issues and concerns.
Key Points
- Outcomes of the Public Durbar:
- Several issues raised by individual citizens and delegations were resolved on the spot.
- Instructions for immediate action in several other cases were issued.
- This marked the third Public Durbar held in different parts of Kathua district in recent months, showcasing sustained public engagement.
- Several issues raised by individual citizens and delegations were resolved on the spot.
- Commitment to Public Service:
- It was emphasized that elected leaders must address genuine public needs while reassuring citizens that their concerns are valued and heard.
- Such events bridge the gap between the public and administration, fulfilling the government's promise to serve citizens effectively.
- Focus of the Government:
- Serving common citizens.
- Reducing public inconvenience.
- Delivering services at citizens’ doorsteps to enhance their ease of living.
- Rising above narrow considerations of politics, caste, creed, and region.
- Guided by the motto of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Public Durbars are used as a platform to connect with citizens, ensuring their issues are addressed comprehensively.
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