"Music is God.... Page 4 SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2021 INTERNET EDITION : www.dailyexcelsior.com/sunday-magazine Food is Divine....Page 3 J&K WETLANDS Threats and Management

Dr Tina Bhat as a flood controlling pools. Sadly, all kinds of waste gen- erated by the people are dumped into this Wetland. Also, The unique climatic conditions of the Union the encroachments result in the change of mud flats and Territory of Jammu and Kashmir support grasslands into the agricultural lands thereby, dividing the habitat into small portions which affects the population of numerous wetlands. These wetlands offer birds in the wetland. Furthermore, discarding domestic socio-economic and ecosystem services in the waste into the wetland has resulted in the excessive weed form of water supply, commercial fisheries, growth. Gharana: Gharana wetland is located along the border agriculture, energy resource, wildlife habitat, in RS Pura tehsil of Jammu district about 30 kms from recreation, tourism, cultural heritage, water Jammu near Gharana village. Gharana wetland is a 'Border Tourism Site' nestled between the India-Pakistan. purification, flood control ,water supply, It has been the winter destination for Siberian birds. It is environment restoration etc. also known as "the bird- watchers' paradise" The most of the inhabitants around Gharana belongs to economically Indeed, the most parts of the region are entirely poor section. Their main occupation is agriculture. The dependent on wetlands for food, domestic, agricultural local residents bath and wash their cattle in the wetland and industrial requirements. They also serve as a means of water. The major problems faced by this wetland are livelihood for rural population and are greatly valued by dumping of solid waste, sewage etc. The use of fertilizers many cultures. The term "wetland" is composed of two and manures in fields ultimately finds way to the wetlands independent words namely 'wet' and 'land' which primari- and result in eutrophication. Further, fuel wood harvest- Gharana Wetland ly gives the idea of a land absorbed with water and sup- ing poses a greatest threat to the tree diversity of this wet- porting a great variety of flora and fauna. land. Also, the woes of world famous Gharana wetland ticides in the surrounding farmland, direct influx of held responsible for conservation and management of The wetland world encompasses all areas with water remained unaddressed even after numerous directions untreated sewage water and solid waste generated by these unique biodiversity hotspots. covered periodically, seasonally, or on a permanent basis from the State. eateries and hotels. The plastic bottles and polythene bags * The members of the community should develop a sci- such as flood prone areas located near river banks, rice Manibugh: Manibugh is situated near Pampore dis- litter the lake at several places and fishes and freshwater entific acumen enabling them to counter the environmen- paddies, swamps or lakes. The wetlands can also be trict of Kashmir and is the breeding ground and the meet- turtles can be seen scavenging on the plastic waste. tal challenges. explained as land transitional between terrestrial and ing point of many birds. This wetland is identified as low Presently, the wetland ecosystems are under tremen- * Reducing the use of chemical argo chemicals/ fertilis- aquatic ecosystem where the water table is usually at or water levels since they are surrounded by cultivation areas dous stress due to massive land system changes and infra- ers in the field around the wetlands. near the surface or the land is covered by shallow water. which wash organic and inorganic constituents in wetland. structure development, as well as intensification of agricul- * Further, Government interventions play a central Further, wetlands facilitate in regulating global climate Mirgund: Mirgund wetland of Kashmir is a shallow tural and industrial activities. Henceforth, there is a grow- role in building awareness in developing scientific citizen- change through sequestering and releasing a major portion temporary wetland. Sukhnag and other adjacent channels ing voice that draws the attention of the Government lead- ship behaviour for attaining sustainable success of wet- of fixed carbon in biosphere. These wetlands also play a are the rich source of fresh water supply used to irrigate ing to adoption of various policies and approaches for con- lands. pivotal role in resolving the water crises worldwide. One of the adjacent paddy fields. This wetland is extremely useful servation, protection, and management of wetlands. * The Government should impose strict regulations the most important benefits that wetlands provide is their for harvesting grains and other livestock. Further, this wet- and thus, local residents should be held liable for illegal capacity to maintain and improve water quality. Therefore, devising safe and effective science-based and land has not only fluvial type of fresh water origin but also technologically sound strategies for by the state and terri- practices i.e. filling, cleaning or disposing off wastes in Accordingly, healthy wetlands have a rich natural diversity promotes a rich aquatic culture. Regrettably, humanity is tory Governments' primary plays a vital responsibility for the wetlands. of plants and animals that act as filtering systems, remov- losing this pool to farming expansion. maintaining adequate quality wetlands with the support of The Government should restore the encroached areas ing sediment and pollutants from water. However, the role Hygam: Hygam is one of the famous wetland areas in jurisdiction-specific guidelines, regulations, policies, of wetlands. of wetlands to sustain and improve water quality is under district Baramulla in Kashmir. Hygam Wetlands has dense processes and standards. However, the various approach- Development of the appropriate forum responsible for threat due to excessive human interface having a signifi- settlements and the people in this area are dependent on cant impact on water flows, nutrient balance and biodiver- es to maintain and/or improving the quality of wetlands resolving the conflicts on wetlands issue must be set up. fishery business. This wetland is of strategic significance * The State Government must allocate appropriate sity. for the national and international tourists for habiting rich include: regulating high value wetlands through environ- funds towards the preservation of these wetlands. Kashmir popularly known as Paradise on Earth for its source of natural beauty in the waters. The lush green grass mental assessment, legislation and processes to review * Restoration strategy calls for collaboration with the beauty is replete with diverse types of fresh water bodies under blue sky and waters with the snow capped moun- potential developments, monitoring and assessment to Government, researchers, and other stakeholders should and bestowed with large number of impressive wetlands tains have an alluring impact on the tourists. Besides, determine whether the condition of wetlands is improving set principles for establishing priorities and decision like Haigam Rakh, Mirgund, Shalbug etc. These wetlands Hygam wetlands have the rich source of aquatic culture or declining, effective management such as on-farm nutri- not only help in decreasing the probability of floods but are attracting photographists. ent management and salinity management aimed at reduc- making for effective long term conservation strategy. extremely useful in removing pollutants from water, pro- Surinsar-Mansar: Mansar Lake is situated 62 km ing water quality pressures, rehabilitation and restoration Further, these restoration goals require intensive plan- tect shorelines, habitat for wildlife etc. Sadly, the famous from Jammu. This wetland is revered through ages due to of wetlands etc. ning, leadership, funding and active involvement from all wetlands of the valley including Dal Lake, Anchar, Wular, its religious importance and scenic beauty. It is rich in Significantly, therefore, the preservation of these wet- the stakeholders. Haigam, Malgam, Hokersar and Kranchu lakes etc. face a micronutrients which turns it an attractive habitat, breed- lands calls for efforts by the UT Government and other * Directing the Pollution Prevention Programme serious threat from anthropogenic activities like increasing ing and nursery ground for migratory birds. The migratory stakeholders including local residents, researchers, acade- through environmental awareness programme. human settlements, urbanization, siltation, expansion of breeding birds visiting this wetland during winters micians, NGO's etc. in the following ways: On the basis of the foregoing discussion, it may be agricultural fields and the expansion of roads. The major include Night Heron, Grey Heron, Indian Coot, Indian * Research and/ or academic fraternity can contribute inferred that wetlands are among the most productive life wetlands of Jammu and Kashmir include: White Wagtail, Rufous Black Shrike etc. A number of significantly by raising awareness, capacity building support systems in the world and are of immense socio- Hokersar: The Hokersar wetland in Kashmir popular- trees like Pinus roxburgii, Acacia nilotica, Mangifera indi- events and activities encouraging the protection of these economic and ecological importance to mankind. They ly known as the "Queen of Wetlands' was recently in news ca, Calotropis, Morus nigra, Solanum nigrum, Adhatoda wetlands. are critical for the maintenance of biodiversity and per- for being on the brink of extinction due to encroachment vesica and ornamental plants like Vinca rosea, Bottle * The local residents also play a pivotal role in collect- form a pivotal role in the biosphere. The wetlands are also activities. This wetland is filled with the migratory birds brush, Thevetia, Tradescantia etc. add to its beauty. ing and analysing data pertaining to the existing condi- termed as "Earth's kidneys" as they provide almost simi- who prey on fish and insects in this protected territory. However, illegal occupation of wetland areas by unautho- tions of the wetlands and biodiversity supported by them. lar functions of sustaining the balanced and healthy ecol- Hokersar is an important shelter for migratory species rized persons has resulted in the shrinking of these wet- * Setting up of eco-development community across dif- ogy by absorbing wastes and sustainable management of during winters. Hokersar plays a vital role by performing lands. The water body is slowly poisoned by the use of pes- ferent districts at state level. Thus, local residents can be water and sanitation for humanity. Telling covers What’s so important about a book cover? Lots, if you look behind the cover, literally, finds Rakhee Roytalukdar Gorosthaney Sabdhane, one of Satyajit Ray’s most read detective Feluda books, has a cover which gives you the creeps. Two contrasting hues and the fig- ure against the backdrop immediately establish that it’s a crime novel. Of course, we know that Ray had a knack for crime fiction. But it’s not always that book cov- ers match the content. Take for example, the cover of Umberto Eco’s debut novel (1980) The Name of the Rose. The minimalistic cover has a solitary bird sitting next to a chair and in the title, the word ‘rose’ is crossed out in red. Intriguing indeed. The book is actually a historical murder mystery set in an Italian monastery of 1327. The whodunit sold over 50 million copies worldwide. Or, take the cover of Wet Apples, White Blood which has a lone white droplet streaking down the plain red cover. The design would definitely prompt a reader to open the book, a collection of poems that was inspired by the role of nursing in Jaipur Literature Festival, “In these times of heightened visual imaging, you need create a world children want to be immersed in.” human evolution and offers glimpses into archetypes of breastfeeding women in to be ahead of the curve. The idea is not necessarily to be glitzy or over-hyped but For little older children, picture books like Machher Jhol by Richa Jha and history and myth. being true to the book. Finally good design stands out in a million ways and helps illustrated by Sumanta Dey, work. The story revolves around Gopu, who is blind Drawing the reader focus attention on the key theme of the book.” but has to step out when his father falls sick. He negotiates the crowds, the mar- Indeed, a book cover often makes a reader pick it up. In a market overcrowd- Roy adds, “There’s a saying ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’, but research kets and traffic of Kolkata to reach his grandma’s house to get her cook his ed with titles today, book cover designs are getting even more attention. points out that spur of the moment buying is based on the cover of the book and father’s favourite fish curry. The cover with a steaming fish curry being cooked Maina Bhagat, director, Oxford Bookstores and Apeejay Literary Festival, puts more so the spine. Evocative book covers go a long way to furthering book sales. with an apt title in simple fonts, doesn’t give out the story but is alluring enough it aptly: “The first ‘sales pitch’ is the cover. If it’s not striking enough to draw Spoiler alert: Should the content between the covers turn out to be unreadable, to attract fish-lovers, especially Bongs. attention, it will be passed over for something more interesting. A well-designed the book will sink irrespective of its stunning cover.” Redesigning Most designers agree that book covers need to draw the reader into the story cover assures the reader that the book is of a high quality, both in content and A trend catching up is redesigning the covers of classics. Like Ruskin Bond’s delivery. The cover can scare away a customer or lure them in. It’s a basic mar- showing what the book is about, without giving it all away. The whole idea is to get the reader open the book and then the author’s magic should start working. The Room on the Roof. On its 60th anniversary it’s now back with a new cover keting strategy.” and gorgeous illustrations. Harper Lee’s unforgettable To Kill a Mockingbird, There are even special prizes nowadays instituted by bookstores and publish- Susanta Paral, designer and visualiser, says : “Book cover designing is a visu- al representation of the inside story. As a designer one has to read and digest the was reprinted on its 50th year in 2010 with a new, attractive book cover. ers to encourage designers to inject new blood into this segment of book publish- “Classics tend to have plain covers and run the risk of being ignored because ing. book before pointing out the USP of the book to the target audience. After the first their old covers date them. Old fashioned book covers have to compete with Bhagat informs, “The Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize is a first-of-its-kind cut of layouts, we have to discuss with the author and publisher. How the author recent book covers, hence publishers bring new life to classics by redesigning award for brilliance in book design, an attempt by the iconic bookstore to recog- visualises his book and how the publisher wants to market the book are impor- their covers,” Singh says. nise the extraordinary work of illustrators across India. Instituted in 2015, the tant to know. Publisher input is important because printing cost is involved in Even Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express cover was redesigned. new prize appreciates the importance of the balance of graphics and narrative, this matter, like the book’s size, hardcover or paperback, glossy or matte, thick- particularly in our increasingly visual age.” ness of the paper etc. After resolving all these, we start designing.” The original cover focused on the train itself. The new cover by Jefferey Nguyen Avid readers usually remember good books, staying with them for a long time, But commissioning attractive book covers could also increase the cost, right? draws attention to the figure of Hercule Poirot —Christie’s famous detective. The but casual readers often remember stunning covers. So for publishers it is impor- Says Bhagat, “Often, a professional cover boosts a book’s sales- enough to jus- use of a limited colour palette creates a stark light and dark contrast, mirroring tant to design covers that stand out especially as it is becoming increasingly diffi- tify the cost. Sales figures endorse this and the cost of a professionally designed the duality of the murder committed on the train. cult to get readers hooked. Even more so with Online books as readers browse cover is built into the retail cost.” Children’s classic Lewis Carol’s Alice in Wonderland was redesigned by through hundreds of thumbnail size pictures. Online book selling has indeed “Great covers draw the reader’s attention, suggest the tone of the work while Korean designer Maya Tatsukawa. Instead of focusing on Alice, like most tradi- encouraged a trend for brighter, fluorescent, super saturated covers and white- taking into consideration the potential cultural expectations of the reader. tional covers do, this one focused on the Cheshire cat’s eyes and mouth. The title out text in print. Furthermore, the importance of cover design has prompted many big publishers itself is carefully crafted to capture the attention of readers by including details to come up with different covers for different markets, catering to the unique cul- from Wonderland — such as the Hatter’s hat on the “I” and the target on the “O.”. Designed to the theme ture of each region and considered a wise investment,” she adds. In just four words, it manages to portray the madness inherent in this classic Look at Albert Camus’ Exile and the Kingdom. The cover is in asymmetry to Talking of markets, children’s book publisher Pranav Kumar Singh of story. make a strong visual impact. The designer experiments with black and white rec- Ponytale Books says, “It’s a challenge to grab the attention of kids as well as par- JD Smith, graphic designer, says: “Big publishers spend thousands to ensure tangles to create a disjointed look metaphorically depicting the characters con- ents because they are the deciding factor in buying the book. The book cover has a cover is right. It is normal for big publishers to have 50 plus covers designed for stantly at odds with the world they live in. to be playful, appropriate for the age group, eye catching and well-illustrated. The a single book so they get it ‘just right.’ All because a book cover is its face and it Says Sanjoy Roy, managing director, Teamworks Arts, and the man behind lettering and the fonts especially should arouse interest. Ideally the cover should generates expectations.” (TWF)