The News Craving
Srinagar:
Arif Shafi Wani, Executive Editor of Greater Kashmir, a prodigious name in the field of journalism in Kashmir, has spoken truth to power. His reportage and opinion pieces on environmental issues in Kashmir has put a spotlight on the area that is often overlooked in Kashmir.
From his consistent reporting in the Kashmir’s largest circulated newspaper, Greater Kashmir, on the deteriorating condition of Dal Lake to his most recent opinion piece, Don’t vandalise Kashmir’s pristine tourist resorts, Arif has not minced words when it comes to raising the failure of authorities to protect the environment and preserve it for future generations.
“The existence of eco-fragile Pahalgam, surrounded by mountains and scenic landscapes, is under serious threat,” Arif said in the opinion piece.
Arif, who has received several awards in the past, also bagged the State Award as an Outstanding Environmentalist given by the Jammu and Kashmir Government. The awardincludes a cash prize of ₹51,000 and a citation.
An alumnus of Tyndale Biscoe School, Wani holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kashmir University and a Bachelor’s in Commerce.
Wani is the first journalist in Kashmir to launch a decade-long campaign to conserve Dal Lake and other water bodies threatened by pollution and encroachment. His reporting has highlighted critical issues such as climate change, rapid glacier melting, wetland deterioration, illegal riverbed mining, and the vandalisation of Karewas.
Wani has bagged several awards in the past:
- Sher-e-Kashmir Award for Environmental Awareness (2007)
- Ozone Award for Best Environmental Reporting (2008)
- Green Journalist Award (2012)
- Lifetime Achievement Award by then CM Mehbooba Mufti (2017)
- Environment Policy Group EPG-Nassarullah Shah Save Nature Award (2022)
- Real Hero Award by NDA-led Members of Parliament (2021)
He has also been feted by various organizations, including the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir, Environmental Medical Association of India, and Nigeen Tourist Traders Association.
Arif was congratulated by several politicians and activists over the award.
Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen (PDF Chairman) has said that Arif’s dedication to environmental journalism makes him a beacon of hope for Jammu and Kashmir.
- Naeem Akhtar (PDP Leader): “You’ve been an eco-warrior always. More power to your pen.”
- Tanvir Sadiq (NC Leader): “At a time when environmental awareness is crucial, your efforts inspire collective action.
Chairpersons of organizations such as the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organization and the Environmental Policy Group also commended Wani’s work, emphasizing his role in raising awareness on environmental issues.
