Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, May 20: Stressing that holistic development must include mind, body and soul, Kashmir’s chief religious cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday urged parents to actively engage in the affairs of their children, while expressing concern over the growing dependence of youth on mobile phones, tablets and digital media.
Speaking at a seminar on “Holistic Education for a Healthy Society” held in connection with the 36th martyrdom anniversary of Mirwaiz Mohammad Farooq (RA), Mirwaiz, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the foundation of a healthy society lies in a balanced approach to knowledge, physical strength and spiritual well-being.
He said the concept of holistic education must go beyond academic achievement and institutional success and focus on the complete development of personality and character.
Referring to the seminar theme, Mirwaiz said while students had highlighted education and physical development, the “soul” dimension was equally important, stressing that true balance in life comes only when mind, body and soul are developed together.
Quoting the broader Islamic perspective, he said Islam is not limited to worship alone but offers a complete and balanced way of life, guiding individuals in education, health, social conduct and spirituality. “When all three dimensions—intellect, physical strength and purity of soul come together, a person reaches the best form of human development as described in the Qur’an,” he said.
Mirwaiz said nation-building cannot be achieved through degrees, infrastructure or excellence in a single field alone, but requires comprehensive development of individuals across all spheres of life.
Expressing concern over the modern era of science, technology and artificial intelligence, he said that while education systems increasingly focus on academic competition, physical activities are being reduced in schools, often limited to marathons alone. He expressed serious concern over growing screen addiction among children, saying that mobile phones, tablets and digital platforms have significantly reduced outdoor play and social interaction among youth.
“Children today are more engaged with screens than with real-life physical and social activities,” he said, adding that even within families, children often prefer digital devices over outdoor games and community interaction.
Activities such as hiking, trekking, swimming and other outdoor sports must be encouraged, instead of narrowing the physical engagement of students, he stressed.
Mirwaiz said parents must take responsibility by spending quality time with children, engaging with them and guiding them beyond academic pressure and examination results.
Instead of focusing solely on producing toppers or achievers, he said parents should participate in children’s daily lives, play with them and encourage a healthy balance between studies, sports and social development.
Highlighting civic engagement initiatives, Mirwaiz appreciated the role of NGOs and youth groups in promoting cleanliness drives, plantation programmes and awareness activities—(KNO)
