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Crisis and Courage: Inside the Lives of Emergency Physicians in the War-torn Regions

Saadeqa Khan
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Crisis and Courage: Inside the Lives of Emergency Physicians in the War-torn Regions

“I scroll aimlessly on my phone, stumbling onto video footage of Shaban Al-Dalou, a 19-year-old man engulfed in flames outside Al-Aqsa Hospital in Gaza. I immediately recognize the hospital and nearby flimsy tents crammed with displaced families. I had worked as a doctor on those very grounds, which became a makeshift village with its subculture.”

“In my time working as a pediatrician in Gaza, I saw starving babies gasping for air and reaching for their mothers, who were buried under rubble. I treated an entire family who had sustained third-degree burns, eyes blistered shut, children’s genitalia scorched and disfigured from bombardment,” describes Dr Seema Jilani. 

Dr Seema Jilani is a pediatric specialist with extensive experience working in Afghanistan, Israel, Gaza, the West Bank, Sudan, Lebanon, Egypt, and the Balkans. Her radio documentary, “Israel and Palestine: The Human Cost of the Occupation,” was nominated for a Peabody Award.

“The war in Gaza has taken its toll on us as mothers. I chose to leave my seven-year-old daughter behind to treat war-wounded children who resembled her, except that their limbs hung by a thread of flesh and their bodies were charred black beyond recognition,” Dr Jilani writes while describing her painful experiences in Gaza. 

WAR
Dr. Seema Jilani treats a baby at al-Aqsa hospital in Gaza. Photo, Tarneem Hammad/MAP

The world has been enduring violence for a long time, with regions such as Kashmir, Palestine, Southern Africa, Yemen, and Ukraine experiencing significant bloodshed. A large part of the population is at serious risk due to violence, bombings, and unlawful killings. 

In 2025, we have seen a sudden rise in conflicts among various nations. In May 2025, India launched an attack on Pakistan, followed by Israel’s attack on Iran in June. The conflicts remain unresolved, and the region feels like a ticking time bomb that could explode at any moment, putting the lives of billions in danger.

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, nearly 58,400 people have been killed in Gaza since October 2023, as of June 2025. Hospitals in the region are facing a severe crisis due to the ongoing conflict, with many facilities either damaged or destroyed, and a critical shortage of essential supplies and staff. The situation has rendered hospitals barely functional, operating at dangerously high capacity, which severely impacts their ability to provide adequate care. 

In May 2025, the World Health Organization published a new report following a renewed intensification of attacks on Gaza by Israel. The report reveals that 28 attacks on healthcare facilities and hospitals have been recorded. Of the 36 hospitals in the Gaza Strip, only 19 remain operational. These hospitals include just one that is providing basic care to the remaining patients still inside. They are struggling under extreme supply shortages, a lack of health workers, persistent insecurity, and a surge in casualties, all while staff are forced to work in impossible conditions.

“We realized early on that we would likely be one of the last hospitals standing in southern Gaza,” says Dr. Michael Grady, a volunteer with the International Medical Corps who spent six weeks at one of our field hospitals in Gaza. “I worked at a field hospital that lacked CAT scanners and MRI machines, relying solely on basic diagnostic skills to examine patients.”

Dr Grady, who was born and raised in Massachusetts, has been recognized with the International Medical Corps’ Henry H. Hood Distinguished Service Award 2024 for his dedication and bravery as a volunteer. Over the past 30 years, he has actively volunteered to provide medical care and has previously worked in Haiti and West Africa with various non-profit organizations. 

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Dr Grady examines a patient at an International Medical Corps field hospital in Gaza. Photo, International Medical Corps.

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Dr Grady sought an organization where he could offer his services. A close friend introduced him to the International Medical Corps. He was impressed by the organization’s focus on training and security and decided to join their team in Ukraine. 

“Ukraine was different from other humanitarian work I’ve done,” Dr Grady explains. “It was more about teaching. The individuals who had been providing emergency care before the war were recruited to the front lines, leaving significant gaps in their healthcare system.” 

Along with several volunteers and staff members, Dr Grady provided comprehensive emergency and trauma care training to Ukrainian healthcare workers, public safety personnel, and other community leaders.

Soon after, the International Medical Corps deployed a field hospital to Gaza to provide urgently needed healthcare to civilians affected by the war. Despite the dangers, Dr Grady felt compelled to help and joined the International Medical Corps’ initial field hospital in southern Gaza, where he stayed for over a month. 

“Gaza was an extremely intense place to work,” he recalls. Initially, we anticipated treating a few dozen patients a day. But suddenly, the numbers skyrocketed to 100 patients daily, and then to 600. We expected only a couple of cases in the emergency department each day. Instead, we were overwhelmed with 30, 40, and then 50 critically injured patients arriving one after another due to explosions.” 

Dr Grady shared the painful memories of patients and their families during his discussions with CNN and CBS News regarding the humanitarian crisis in Southern Gaza. He explained that working in a war zone is always challenging for doctors and physicians, but what he observed in Gaza was particularly painful and heartbreaking. At times, the medical staff would burst into tears, finding it difficult to offer compassion and hope to the patients and their families.

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A destroyed hospital in Yemen. The Saudi-led coalition is bombing the Haydan region daily. Photo, Yann Geay/MSF

When International War Laws Fail, and You Still Have to Deliver Services!

“International humanitarian law often feels like a meaningless phrase in these times. The indiscriminate attacks on hospitals and civilians—either directly targeted or conveniently labeled as collateral damage—add an extra layer of complexity to the situation.”

“Medical staff sometimes find themselves questioning whether their work in a war zone is worth the risks they take. The answer to this question should be obvious from the start; it is a question that should never have to be asked, especially given the severe humanitarian needs present.”

“Wartime doctors often face moments of helplessness. They understand that there will always be another surge of patients arriving at the hospital,” as Dr Alan de Lima Pereira noted. He served in Yemen during the war in 2016, which he described as another forgotten conflict where the most vulnerable and innocent suffered the most.

Humanity Over Personal Safety?

“I have never questioned my safety. As a doctor dedicated to humanitarian service, I have always felt secure; I have never felt at risk. In my view, my commitment to serving others and my profession as a humanitarian doctor provide me with protection,” says Dr Louise Koster.

“By using my medical expertise for the benefit of humanity, I experience the freedom and opportunity to fully trust in life. I find safety within my commitment; it is a sanctuary and a space of truth. I have learned to trust life by following my true path. By dedicating myself to humanitarian service, I am assured that life will protect and care for me.”

Dr Louis Koster has been a spiritual teacher, medical doctor, and coach in the self-help industry for over 30 years. He has worked with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) during the war in Liberia. He suggests that if you are an empath and want to test your strengths and beliefs, consider working as a medical doctor or volunteer in war zones. This experience will profoundly change your life!

References: 

More from the Author: Gaza and the Vicious Cycle of Transgenerational Trauma

 

Equipping Children with Survival Strategies in War Emergencies

Khair ul Bariyah
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Equipping Children with Survival Strategies in War Emergencies

Over the last few decades, the concept of emergency management has evolved significantly to become a part of the field of school safety. The alarming rates of war, violent acts, terrorist activities, and natural calamities have raised awareness about the need to focus on this area of education.

In addition to war-related emergencies, other crises also impact schools. These include medical emergencies, public health crises, accidents, injuries, and the loss of a school community member. Therefore, it is high time for school emergency management plans to adopt an “all-hazards” approach so that children are well-equipped to handle a wide range of challenges.

School administrators have learned to be proactive by training students before a critical event occurs. This article aims to raise awareness among school systems that are working on war emergency education for children or have not yet considered it.

“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” ~Frederick Douglass

Children are especially vulnerable in war situations. Those living in or fleeing from war-affected areas face challenges that have lasting effects on their overall well-being. Research shows an increased risk of mental disorders and other forms of psychopathology among such children. A lack of both knowledge and preparedness further contributes to panic and trauma.

“In every war zone, it is the children who suffer first and recover last.”
~ UNICEF Report on Children in Armed Conflict (2022)

According to a report by UNICEF, over 426 million children were living in conflict zones by the end of 2021. Around 47% of these children developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and 43% experienced depression. Research by Save the Children in Syria revealed that 84% of children had experienced bombing, and 71% showed symptoms of toxic stress.

War drill in schools
A teacher in England, supervises the children in their monthly gas mask drill. Credit: Central Press/Getty Images

“The invisible wounds of war are carried longest by the youngest.”
~International Rescue Committee (2023)

The Ukraine Psychological First Aid in Schools program, Japan’s Disaster and Conflict Preparedness initiative, and Lebanon’s UNRWA Resilience Workshops are some of the successful programs aimed at developing confidence in handling emergencies. These programs incorporate practices such as role-playing, mindfulness, resilience-building activities, and war and earthquake drills.

We must introduce age-appropriate survival education in schools to prepare future generations for critical situations such as war. Children at the school level can be sensitized according to their age group by allocating one period per week to this purpose. This need not rely on lecture-based instruction; rather, children should be given a vivid and practical understanding of the challenges associated with a state of war.

Storytelling can play a pivotal role in helping students comprehend the complexities of such situations. Additionally, role-plays can enable students to simulate war scenarios and practice appropriate responses, ensuring they are not perplexed or caught off guard during real emergencies. Visual displays, such as posters in classrooms and corridors, can also serve as constant reminders of useful tips and survival strategies.

Along with first-aid training, students should also be guided on how to pack their emergency kits, including essential items such as water, snacks, a flashlight, a whistle, and an ID card. This practice will foster a sense of responsibility in children during times of conflict, as they will learn when and how to use these items effectively.

Additionally, training can be provided to help them develop mental and emotional resilience by incorporating mindfulness techniques into lessons. These may include deep breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and relaxation games.

The role of parents is crucial, as they serve as a primary source of support and encouragement. Motivation from home can help children remain active and engaged during drills and training sessions at school. To facilitate this, a clear and open channel of communication should be established between teachers, parents, and emergency personnel involved in the training. This collaboration will ensure that children arrive at school well-prepared for drills or any other emergency-related activities.

Children live in a world that is increasingly hostile to their rights”
According to a report by UNICEF, over 426 million children were living in conflict zones by the end of 2021. Around 47% of these children developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and 43% experienced depression. Credit: UNICEF

Additionally, school administrations may consider forming a community support group for children affected by war. Such initiatives can cultivate empathy and peer support among students, helping them understand the emotional impact that war can leave on individuals. Engaging in community work will encourage children to look out for one another during times of crisis, rather than remaining solely self- or family-focused.

“Even in war, a child who is taught to hope can learn to heal.” ~Dr. Boris Cyrulnik

We know that being proactive helps prevent chaos. Including war-emergency education in schools has the potential to save countless innocent lives during critical times. Knowledge without application is meaningless, and the same applies to academic learning without survival skills.

Beyond physical preparedness, psychological first aid is equally essential in shaping empowered survivors. Educational policymakers must seriously consider formalizing emergency training within the school curriculum. Our goal should be to raise prepared, resilient children, not helpless victims of war.

“Children may not remember what you taught them, but they will remember how you made them feel in a crisis.” ~Maya Angelou

References:

  1. Guide, F. O. (2006). Psychological First Aid.
  2. Peltonen, K. (2024). Children and war–vulnerability and resilience. European Journal of Developmental Psychology, 1-13.
  3. Santa Barbara, J. (2006). Impact of war on children and the imperative to end war. Croatian medical journal, 47(6), 891.
  4. United States. Department of Justice. (1998). Annual report on school safety. US Department of Education.
  5. McDonald, A., Buswell, M., Khush, S., & Brophy, M. (2017). Invisible Wounds: The impact of six years of war on the mental health of Syria’s children. Save the children.
  6. Canton, H. (2021). United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East—UNRWA. In The Europa Directory of International Organizations 2021(pp 286-289). Routledge.
  7. Galatsch, M. Enhancing Access to Healthcare for Displaced and Conflict-Affected Children.
  8. EVER, T. (2023). INVISIBLE AND FORGOTTEN.
  9. Pillay, M. (2025). Education as a Catalyst for Peacebuilding beyond the Classroom.

More from the author: Climate Education for Children through Storytelling and Fiction

Nuclear Fusion: The Urgent Solution to Our Climate Emergency and Clean Energy Needs

Wijdan Ali
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Nuclear Fusion: The Urgent Solution to Our Climate Emergency and Clean Energy Needs

The climate crisis is not an anomaly to us. The only difference between the climate crisis today and a few decades ago is that it’s worsening at an unprecedented, exponential pace. The Global Energy Review 2025 by the International Energy Agency shows CO₂ emissions reaching an all-time high of 37.8 billion tonnes in 2024! Rising population rate, indeed, is a major facet in increased energy usage, ultimately leading to extreme carbon emissions.

In recent years, though, another major factor has presented itself: the rising energy requirements of enormous AI data centres. Another report by the International Energy Agency predicts that the energy consumption for massive data centres is expected to grow 15 percent annually, more than four times faster than the growth in all other sectors.

Adverse impacts that follow these increased emissions continue to pose serious challenges to the environment and us human beings. In 2022, for instance, Pakistan suffered from severe floods caused by global warming, and, at large, such effects are only expected to rise in the upcoming years. With all this in the equation, it’s imperative for us to generate clean energy and, that too, at large scales. Utilising pre-existing clean energy sources to do so is inherently unreliable.

The wind doesn’t always blow, nor does the sun always shine, and most importantly, these methods are less efficient as compared to conventional methods of burning oil, coal, or gas. Given this, the infamous nuclear energy may be able to rescue humanity. “Now I’ve become hope, the savior of worlds?” Let’s find out.

Nuclear Fusion Benefits & Challenges

Fusion involves joining or ‘fusing’ two nuclei together to release energy that could power our homes someday. The compelling ability that it entails is producing an abundant amount of energy, nearly 4 million times more than the traditional combustion of fossil fuels, as reported by ITER, a leading project in the area. And if that wasn’t enough, the process also doesn’t release any harmful emissions like CO₂ and other greenhouse gases. A case study by MIT Energy Initiative found that incorporating fusion into New England’s energy mix would cut annual energy costs by $36 billion.

Extending this 7% price reduction across all energy consumption in the United States could save consumers $199 billion per year. MIT’s analysis further shows that fusion power could increase global GDP by $68 trillion to $175 trillion. While this boost to GDP could help wealthy nations grow, its greatest impact may be in regions like South Asia and Africa, where renewable power is sparse and electricity needs will grow nearly tenfold by the century’s end.

Fusion involves joining or ‘fusing’ two nuclei together in order to release energy that could power our homes someday.
Fusion involves joining or ‘fusing’ two nuclei together to release energy that could power our homes someday. Credit: ShineFusion

Conditions required to achieve this promising process are quite complex, though. The main ingredient is plasma, a state of matter with free electrons. Next, the plasma needs to be concentrated or confined close together for an adequate period so the nuclei can fuse. As easy as it may sound, this process initially involves heating the plasma to temperatures as high as 100 million degrees Celsius. Furthermore, we need to maintain this temperature, which is hotter than the very core of our Sun, so that the nuclei can gain enough energy to overcome the electrostatic forces between them and fuse.

In reality, the behaviour of plasma and how to control it is still not well understood. During magnetic confinement, plasma often experiences unpredictable turbulence, chaotic motion that causes it to drift away from the centre of the reaction. As it moves toward the edges, plasma cools down due to heat loss to the surrounding boundaries.

This loss of heat not only prevents plasma from reaching the high temperatures necessary for fusion, but also reduces the overall efficiency of the process. The challenge does not end there. When plasma comes into contact with the reactor’s boundaries, the intense heat can erode the reactor walls. As a result, the plasma can become contaminated, which further disrupts the fusion process. This leads to frequent maintenance and the need for replacement of damaged components, making fusion energy extremely expensive.

Recent Developments

Usage of AI has surged in the past few years, and recently, researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) successfully deployed machine learning methods to predict the behaviour of plasma. With the ability to analyse vast amounts of data in real time, such AI models can anticipate instability events and then quickly adjust the plasma parameters (magnetic field strength, plasma current) in real time, thereby minimising such events. The research team at PPPL was able to demonstrate the highest fusion performance without any plasma turbulence at two different fusion facilities.

Active research is also being done on new kinds of materials, including smart alloys, that can be used as boundaries of reactors and, most importantly, have the ability to withstand erosion. Very recently, in April 2025, the French WEST Tokamak reactor broke all records by maintaining stable plasma confinement for over 22 minutes. This breakthrough was achieved without any corrosion of the reactor’s components or contamination of the plasma, which gives us reason to be optimistic that progress is indeed being made on finding erosion-resistant materials.

ecently, researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) successfully deployed machine learning methods to predict the behaviour of plasma
Recently, researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) successfully deployed machine learning methods to predict the behaviour of plasma. Credit: Bumper DeJesus / Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment

In recent years, new heating methods have emerged, which allow plasma to be heated efficiently and rapidly without significant loss of heat. One plausible method brought to light is heating through neutral particles, currently being tested in the ITER Neutral Beam Test Facility. Particles having a neutral charge can be accelerated towards the core of a fusion reaction without being influenced by electrostatic forces that exist in the reactor.

In principle, this deep penetration inside the plasma would precisely transfer energy to, or heat, the central region; thereby, the heat lost to the boundaries and, ultimately, more heat required to cover that loss to reach high temperatures would be avoided.

Commercialisation Of Nuclear Fusion

Imagine you wake up in a world where the energy crisis is no longer a concern, cheap and clean electricity flows into your home, and as you go out to take a stroll, you enjoy a deep, long sigh of purer air. Well, this imagination is not far from reality.

Throughout history, scientific progression has never followed a straight path; rather, it has relied on failures and mistakes to improve. The cumbersome number of fusion reactor designs being tested is indicative of the technological immaturity that currently exists. However, the global race to achieve commercialization has already begun. Recently, Japan’s government released a draft plan regulating commercial fusion.

In Europe, Germany’s newly elected government has set an agenda to develop the first fusion power plant in Germany. The UK, on the other hand, allocated about $530 million to fusion this January. In 2023, by some estimates, it was reported that China’s spending in the area was $1.5 billion alone, twice that of the Department of Energy in the US.

Given this increasing commitment, it’s only evident that fusion is the way forward for clean energy. A study by MIT’s Energy Review predicts that by the end of this century, fusion can account for a maximum of 50% of the total global share. Advancements in fusion are developing at an exponential pace at the moment; however, experts suggest that the scale and timing of fusion deployment in different regions will be driven largely by macroeconomic factors and decarbonisation goals. Factors like economic growth, population density, electrification needs, decarbonisation targets, and relative prices of electricity will play an important role in the commercialisation of fusion.

References:

Also Read: Crashing Back to Earth: The Lesson of Kosmos 482

Evolving Landscape of Biotechnology in Pakistan: Innovations and Future Prospects

Aneesa Zeb Awan
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Evolving Landscape of Biotechnology in Pakistan: Innovations and Future Prospects

As a teenager visiting my hometown and Abbottabad city, I was disappointed by the land waste at the gateway to the Northern areas, worrying about its impact on the tourists. I always used to think about sustainable and innovative waste treatment solutions. When I came across biotechnology’s potential to generate energy, treat waste, and remediate the impacts of industries and agriculture, I immediately decided to choose it as a field.

Throughout my academic journey, I have commonly heard discouraging remarks regarding biotechnology as a field in Pakistan. Many credited it as a subject with uncertain career prospects. This concept is not entirely true.

As Yuval Noah Harari said in his book “21 Lessons for the 21st Century”, biotechnology is one of the fields that will define the 21st century and is set to reshape human lives and industries in a way that we are only beginning to comprehend. As Pakistan navigates food insecurity, public health crisis, and climate change, biotechnology offers timely and transformative solutions rooted in science and sustainability.

Biotechnology has surpassed 3 trillion USD in global industry with prompt advancements in synthetic biology, molecular biology, and genetic engineering, with applications ranging from healthcare to environmental sustainability.

Today in Pakistan, with an increasing focus on sustainable agriculture, as evidenced by the introduction of resilient crop varieties (e.g., Bt Cotton and wheat-AZRC-Dera), and the launch of biofertilizers by the leading fertilizer companies like AlMoiz Industries Limited, paints an optimistic outlook. The increasing investments in biotechnology startups, research institutions, and industrial applications, e.g, the production of biogas, guarantee a promising future.

Opportunities in this field are expanding due to global challenges like climate change and healthcare issues. Today, more than a hundred universities in Pakistan are offering degree programs in Biotechnology, creating prospects for those who are willing to contribute to this transformative science.

The following are the recent trends in biotechnology;

Synthetic Biology and Genetic Engineering

These technologies enable precise genetic modifications and have applications in enhanced crop resilience and disease treatment (e-g, treatment of Thalassemia). Genome editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 have introduced synthetic biology to new frontiers. As per the GEN report, the global synthetic biology industry would generate revenue of around ＄30 billion by 2026.

Biotechnology has surpassed 3 trillion USD in global industry with prompt advancements in synthetic biology, molecular biology, and genetic engineering
Biotechnology has surpassed 3 trillion USD in the global industry with prompt advancements in synthetic biology, molecular biology, and genetic engineering. Credit: Unsplash

Biofertilizers and Sustainable Agriculture

Due to rising concerns over chemical fertilizers, the focus on biofertilizers has increased. Biofertilizers are microbial inoculants that promote plant growth and improve soil fertility even under environmentally stressed conditions. This envisions a promising future of sustainable agriculture where surplus food is produced without compromising the environment.

Biotechnology in Healthcare and Precision Medicine

Biotechnology is accelerating the research in personalized medicine and transforming healthcare. Stem cell therapy and pharmacogenomics are enhancing patient outcomes with targeted treatments. More research is being carried out in precision medicine, whose goal is to make medical decisions according to the individual characteristics of each patient, most prominently tailored to the genetics of each person.

Advancements in Nano-Biotech

With the integration of nanotechnology and biotechnology, the use of nano-biosensors has increased for efficient drug delivery and industrial products with enhanced function. Advancements in nano-biotechnology are promising in the healthcare and food industries.

AI-Biotechnology intersection

According to the report by Science Daily, researchers have improved AI-driven microscopy for cell analysis and enabled the analysis of 17,000 cell images within a few seconds. Such advancements, along with AlphaFold (which predicts protein structure), are accelerating growth in healthcare and agriculture. A unique blend of AI and Biotechnology has a promising future, and it is yet to predict what this area holds for us in the future.

Institutions with leading Biotechnology Research in Pakistan

The following institutions are offering research opportunities that help drive innovation in the field.

National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE)

This premier biotechnology research center, working under the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), is located in Faisalabad. It focuses on research in plant biotechnology, health biotechnology, industrial biotechnology, and genetic engineering. Other research divisions include soil and environment biotechnology and the division of technical services. The institute also offers collaborative research opportunities at the postgraduate level to international and national students.

NIBGE has also introduced biofertilizer products, that are BioPower and Phosphorus Pool, into the commercial market with approval from the Government of Punjab. In addition to this, NIBGE hosts National Biology Talent contests and commodity auctions.

Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab

CEMB is a leading research institute known for its advancements in molecular diagnostics, crop improvement, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1985, it contributes to human resource development in molecular biology through its graduates. Moreover, CEMB offers commercial lab services in areas like agriculture, stem cell, forensics, and molecular diagnostics. It is known for extensive research in various domains of molecular biology. Its major research areas include genetics, biopharmaceuticals, proteomics, genomics, stem cell research, plant, health, microbial, and environmental biotechnology.

CEMB maintains collaborations with renowned national and international institutes such as the University of Washington, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Cincinnati. Furthermore, CEMB has successfully developed GM varieties of cotton, rice, and sugarcane with resistance to pests and other environmental stressors. It has also played a pioneering role in the genetic screening and diagnosis of hereditary and infectious diseases in Pakistan.

Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology – University of the Punjab
CEMB offers commercial lab services in areas like agriculture, stem cell, forensics, and molecular diagnostics. Credit: CEMB

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC)

It is an apex national institution that promotes and coordinates agricultural research in Pakistan. It focuses on the development of genetically modified crop varieties with improved environmental resistance, biopesticides, biofertilizers, and encourages sustainable farming practices.

The major bodies of this grand research institute are the National Agriculture Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad; Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI), Bahawalpur; the Mountain Agriculture Research Centre (MARC), Gilgit-Baltistan; and the National Sugar and Tropical Horticulture and Research Institute (NSTHRI), Thatta.

In collaboration with international partners, PARC has developed more than 20 varieties of plants and crops with improved resistance. Moreover, PARC has also pioneered tissue culturing techniques in Pakistan, leading to the production of virus-free seed potatoes and the micropropagation of crops like banana. PARC has also implemented programs aimed at improving indigenous livestock breeds and enhancing feed efficiency.

International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS)

It is located at the University of Karachi. It comprises two main centers: Dr. Panjwani Centre for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research and HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry. ICCBS is an internationally recognized research facility. It has specialized research groups in molecular biology, drug discovery, genomics, and bioinformatics. ICCBS has active industrial collaborations and prominent international linkages.

The Centre offers MPhil/PhD programs in various biological/biotechnological courses and offers diverse campus life along with research opportunities. ICCBS has garnered international acclaim for its groundbreaking research, advanced training programs, and significant contributions to science and technology. It contributed significantly to the study of natural products and contributed to the discovery of novel medicinal compounds.

To sum up, biotechnology is at the junction of sustainability and breakthrough. Its applications in agriculture, the environment, and healthcare will reshape future industries. As professionals in this field, we are obliged to harness its advancements effectively to drive positive change in the country.

It is our responsibility to accept the recent trends in the world of science, as this would help us to be relevant in this modern age. Biotechnology is more than just a career for me; it has given me the purpose, which is to contribute to innovative and sustainable solutions for global challenges.

References:

Also Read: Taming Jumping Genes: Could Controlling Junk DNA Delay Aging?

Beyond the Battlefield: How Ethics Shapes the Reasons and Conduct of War

Muniba Usman
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Beyond the Battlefield: How Ethics Shapes the Reasons and Conduct of War

“Ethics in the Line of Fire: Pakistan’s Calculated Response vs India’s Civilian Toll”

In modern warfare, where satellites guide missile routes and media shape the overall narratives, one element that is often overlooked becomes most defining: ethics. The recent tensions that escalated between India and Pakistan offered the world more than a clash between two nuclear-armed nations; it revealed a contrast in psychological discipline, military conduct, and ethical restraint.

The current crisis originated on April 22, 2025, when terrorists brutally killed 26 tourists, including a Nepalese national, in Pahalgam. The attack was executed by the Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy organization established by Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) to obscure its direct involvement in terrorism.

In response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Indian Army and Air Force jointly launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7, a precise, targeted strike on terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).

The operation successfully struck nine targets in Pakistan, notably including the headquarters of  Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) at Markaz SubhanAllah in Bahawalpur, and the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) headquarters at Markaz Taiba in Muridke. 3

“Families on the LoC are subjected to Indian and Pakistani whims and face the brunt of heated tensions,” Anam Zakaria, a Pakistani writer based in Canada, told the BBC.

“Each time firing resumes, many are thrust into bunkers, livestock and livelihood are lost, infrastructure like homes, hospitals, and schools is greatly damaged. The vulnerability and volatility experienced have grave repercussions for their everyday lived reality,” Ms Zakaria, author of a book on Pakistan-administered Kashmir, said. 2

A burst of narratives by local and international newspapers elevated the situation. India’s approach, veiled in psychological warfare, involved strikes on civilian-populated areas near Pakistan’s eastern border, damaging the residential areas, schools, and vital water and power lines. Experts note that such strikes are not just military tactics; they are calculatedly engineered to instill mass fear and break down morale —a strategy with a prolonged, controversial history in modern warfare. Yet the repercussions of targeting civilians and residential areas go far beyond geopolitical consequences; they leave scars on both societies and soldiers.

war
This level of precision and ethical discipline, even under provocation, reflected not only faith-based values but modern scientific understanding of warfare psychology. Photo: Duniya News

In a well-calculated and timely counter-response, Pakistan demonstrated restraint and strategic maturity. Instead of retaliating emotionally, the Pakistan Armed Forces focused on military targets like the weapons depots, supply chains, and command infrastructure. This level of precision and ethical discipline, even under provocation, reflected not only faith-based values but modern scientific understanding of warfare psychology.

The Science of Ethical Warfare

Scientific studies in behavioral psychology and neuroscience have shown that soldiers who engage in actions perceived as unjust and unfair, especially harming civilians, are more likely to experience higher levels of moral injury, combat stress, and PTSD. Research from the Journal of Traumatic Stress and Defense Studies shows that brain scans (fMRI) of soldiers reveal heightened amygdala activity and impaired prefrontal cortex functioning when they commit or witness unjust acts in war.

On the contrary, military personnel who operate under clear ethical guidelines like those aligned with humanitarian laws or religious values are likely to exhibit stronger emotional regulation, cognitive processing, and post-war mental stability. This is not just moral theory; it is measurable science.

Today, in an age where the art of warfare is monitored by drones and judged on global platforms, Pakistan’s approach sends a message: ethics are not a weakness; they are strategic power.

In the recent escalation between Pakistan and India, Pakistan’s response was witnessed as avoiding civilian harm, which aligned with both Islamic principles of warfare and modern military ethics. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) laid down wartime conduct over 1400 years ago: no harm to women, children, elderly, or religious clergy; no destruction of crops or water sources; no mutilation or betrayal.

These principles were upheld in battles like Hunayn and Tabuk, where Muslim forces won not only through military might but through moral restraint and justice. Today, Pakistan’s military doctrine echoes that same legacy.

Dr. Naveed Ahmad, a defense psychiatrist in Rawalpindi, explains: “Combat conducted without clear ethical boundaries causes disorientation among soldiers. They lose their psychological compass. Pakistan’s strict adherence to targeting only military assets protects not only civilians, but the minds of its soldiers too.”

Both India and Pakistan possess nuclear arsenals and weaponry, with a Rutgers University study estimating that a nuclear exchange could kill 127 million people if 250 warheads were used. The recent strikes have escalated tensions to a critical point, with both nations exchanging fire along the Line of Control (LoC) and suspending bilateral treaties. Pakistan’s measured response thus far demonstrates restraint, but continued provocation could force a defensive nuclear posture, plunging the region into catastrophe. 1

Cognitive Warfare and Long-Term National Strength

Modern conflicts are no longer just fought with bombs or weapons, they’re fought with information, perception, and ideology. When one country maintains moral clarity in war, it strengthens its image on global grounds, national unity, and post-war resilience. Pakistan’s clarity of intent in its recent actions reinforces the psychological strength of both its military and its citizens.

India’s strikes on civilian regions may seem powerful in the short term, but scientifically and morally, such tactics deteriorate the attacking side’s international standing and internal discipline. Civilian-targeted warfare fosters generations of trauma, psychological distress, radicalization, and diplomatic isolation. Ethical warfare, on the other hand, fosters peacebuilding and post-conflict healing.

In the words of a senior Pakistani commander stationed along the border, “We have precision, but more importantly, we have principles. Our strength lies not in destruction, but in direction.”

Conclusion: Science Meets Sunnah

Today, in an age where the art of warfare is monitored by drones and judged on global platforms, Pakistan’s approach sends a message: ethics are not a weakness; they are strategic power. The alignment of Islamic war ethics with scientific mental health research gives Pakistan’s military response both divine and data-driven strength.

As the world watches two decades-old rivals clash in modern ways, it is not just firepower that defines the future; it is how, where, and why that firepower is used. Weapons may shape the battlefield, but ethics shape the nation’s soul. And with that stance, Pakistan played very well.

References:

  1. https://thinktank.pk/2025/05/07/indias-aggression-pushes-south-asia-to-nuclear-brink/
  2. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgmj7l0lne3o
  3. https://www.eurasiareview.com/08052025-beyond-ceasefire-violations-pakistans-shelling-of-civilians-is-a-crime-against-humanity-oped/
  4. https://img.dunyanews.tv/news/2025/May/05-07-25/news_big_images/882618_48632927.jpg
  5. https://diplomatist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pahalgam-282948610-16x9_0.jpg

More from the Author: STEAM Education: Igniting a New Dawn for Pakistan’s Future

Taming Jumping Genes: Could Controlling Junk DNA Delay Aging?

Tooba Tahir
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Taming Jumping Genes: Could Controlling Junk DNA Delay Aging?

For a long time, scientists believed that much of our DNA was just biologically static, i.e., sequences that didn’t code for anything meaningful. These stretches were nicknamed “junk DNA” and considered evolutionary leftovers. But recent discoveries have challenged this view. Hidden in this so-called junk are fragments known as jumping genes, or transposable elements (TEs), which appear to play a surprising role in aging and disease.

Researchers now suspect that these elements are not as dormant as once thought. They may be actively involved in causing DNA damage, stirring up inflammation, and undermining the genome’s stability as we grow older.

The exciting part? Scientists are exploring ways to silence them to potentially slow down some aspects of aging.

Hidden Hitchhikers in Your DNA

Jumping genes are bits of DNA that can move from one location to another in the genome. They come in different types; some make copies of themselves and insert elsewhere, while others cut themselves out and relocate. One group in particular, called LINE-1, is especially active in humans. These sequences are a type of retrotransposon, meaning they use an RNA intermediate to replicate and integrate back into the genome. In doing so, they sometimes disrupt the key genetic functions along the way.

When not kept in check, LINE-1 elements may insert themselves into critical regions of the genome, damage DNA, and provoke immune responses. Think of them as stealthy, virus-like intruders embedded in our code.

In youth, our cells use epigenetic mechanisms to suppress this movement. But as we age, these control systems weaken. It’s like having a firewall that gradually deactivates, and the intruders start getting in.

Jumping genes in DNA
Jumping genes are bits of DNA that can move from one location to another in the genome. Credit: ISTOCK.COM/The Scientist

From Mobility to Mayhem

Once LINE-1 elements are active, they set off a chain of reactions:

  • DNA breaks and mutations: As LINE-1 replicates and reinserts itself in the genome, it can cause double-stranded DNA breaks, which are the kind of damage that cells find hard to fix.
  • Inflammatory signaling: These fragments mimic viral RNA, which triggers an immune alarm known as the interferon response.
  • Cellular senescence: Cells experiencing too much damage stop dividing and become senescent, releasing more pro-inflammatory signals.

This self-sustaining cycle of LINE-1 activity, inflammation, and senescence leads to tissue dysfunction. This is a hallmark of inflammaging, which is the chronic low-grade inflammation linked to aging and its diseases.

Recent findings also suggest that this LINE-1 activity can affect mitochondrial function, increasing oxidative stress and impairing energy production. The result? A slow but persistent decline in organ and tissue function.

When DNA Turns Against the Brain

It’s not just your skin or joints that suffer. Your brain may be especially vulnerable to these tiny saboteurs.

A study published in Frontiers in Neurology explored the role of LINE-1 in neurodegenerative disorders. The findings were striking: LINE-1 activation in the brain is associated with DNA damage, oxidative stress, and the kind of inflammation observed in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Why does this matter? Because neurons are post-mitotic, that i,s they don’t divide. When damage accumulates, they can’t replace themselves easily. This makes them prime targets for cumulative genomic damage from active transposons.

And it’s not just aging brains at risk. Some evidence links increased LINE-1 activity to conditions like autism and schizophrenia, suggesting that TE regulation is critical across the lifespan.

A Virus Fighter that’s Rewriting the Story of Aging

If transposable elements are behaving like viruses, could antiviral drugs stop them? That’s exactly what scientists asked.

De Cecco et al. (2019) found that LINE‑1 activity spikes in aged and senescent cells, triggering type-I interferon-mediated inflammation. Treating aged mice with lamivudine (3TC), a reverse-transcriptase inhibitor, significantly reduced this inflammatory response.

Building on this, Vallés-Saiz et al. (2023) showed that 3TC improved outcomes in P301S tau-transgenic mice. These mice exhibited fewer signs of tau pathology, lowered neuro-inflammation, better memory, and improved motor function after treatment, while 3TC also blocked tau-induced LINE‑1 activation.

This raised an important question: if a simple antiviral can suppress transposon-induced inflammation and reverse some signs of aging, could it be used as a preventive treatment in humans?

Silencing the Genome’s Noisy Intruders with RNA Therapy

While repurposed antivirals like 3TC show promise, the real future is in precision RNA-targeted therapy. Cas13a—a CRISPR system engineered to specifically cleave RNA has proven effective in mammalian cells, allowing precise and reversible knockdown of target transcripts without genome alteration.

Similarly, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), targeting LINE‑1 RNA, have demonstrated promising outcomes in the mouse models of premature aging, reducing transposon expression and improving the genomic stability and lifespan.

These RNA-based platforms, including siRNAs, ASOs, and CRISPR–Cas13 systems, stand out because they are not only reversible but also tunable, allowing for a controlled therapeutic window and safer clinical application as compared to permanent DNA edits.

To deliver these tools effectively, scientists are adapting lipid nanoparticles similar to those used in mRNA vaccines for targeted delivery to the brain and aging tissues.

Researchers are also looking for epigenetic drugs that restore DNA methylation and repressive histone modifications at LINE‑1 loci, reinforcing the genome’s natural defense system.

DNA and aging
Some scientists even speculate that natural differences in TE suppression might explain why certain people live longer, healthier lives. Credit: sporlab

This multi-pronged, reversible approach offers a promising path toward treating or even preventing TE‑driven aging and disease.

Could Blocking Jumping Genes Become Preventive Medicine?

If LINE-1 activity truly contributes to aging, then suppressing it might:

  • Delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases
  • Reduce cancer risk by preserving genome stability
  • Enhance immune function by minimizing inflammaging
  • Maintain tissue regeneration and organ health

Imagine reaching your 70s or 80s with the cognitive sharpness and mobility of someone much younger by simply preventing genomic self-sabotage.

Some scientists even speculate that natural differences in TE suppression might explain why certain people live longer, healthier lives. Genetics, lifestyle, and environment may all influence how tightly these elements are kept under wraps.

Furthermore, lifestyle interventions like exercise, a healthy diet, and certain plant polyphenols (e.g., resveratrol, curcumin) are being studied for their potential to influence cellular processes, including gene expression, DNA damage, and inflammation, suggesting that they could play a role in maintaining transposon silencing, opening the door to combined strategies involving both pharmaceuticals and lifestyle adjustments.

But Let’s Not Demonize All Transposons

As promising as this line of research is, we must remember that not all jumping genes are harmful.

In embryonic development, transposons help regulate genes and contribute to genomic diversity. Some elements may even play protective roles in specific contexts. Silencing them completely, without nuance, could interfere with essential biological functions.

Therefore, the goal isn’t total suppression. It’s context-specific control that is quieting jumping genes when they become harmful, especially in aged or diseased tissues.

A balanced approach ensures that we maintain the beneficial evolutionary roles of these sequences while minimizing their negative impact on aging and disease.

What’s Next? From Lab Bench to Human Trials

The road to clinical use is still being paved. Scientists need to:

  • Run long-term safety studies on RNA-targeted therapies
  • Understand tissue-specific roles of different transposons
  • Design tailored delivery systems for different organs
  • Explore biomarkers that signal when LINE-1 suppression is needed
  • Combine TE suppression with other anti-aging strategies for synergy

But momentum is growing. Research is expanding from animal models to human tissues. Some early-stage clinical projects are even looking at using reverse transcriptase inhibitors for age-related conditions beyond HIV.

The vision? A new class of anti-aging drugs targets the genomic saboteurs we’ve long ignored. These therapies could eventually join the growing arsenal of longevity science alongside senolytics, NAD boosters, and stem cell technologies.

The Future of Aging Science

We used to think of aging as something inevitable, slo,w and passive decline. But what if part of that decline is driven by internal saboteurs we can tame?

Jumping genes may have helped our ancestors evolve, but in our later years, they become unpredictable and disruptive. Now, with a blend of old antivirals and next-gen RNA tools, we have a chance to fight back.

By targeting the root causes of genomic instability and inflammation, we may not only treat disease but also redefine what it means to grow old.

We stand on the edge of a new era in medicine, one where aging could be managed not by treating its symptoms but by addressing its genomic triggers. And that shift may begin with taming the restless, jumping genes within us.

References:

Peze-Heidsieck, E., Bonnifet, T., Znaidi, R., Ravel-Godreuil, C., Massiani-Beaudoin, O., Joshi, R. L., & Fuchs, J. (2022). Retrotransposons as a Source of DNA Damage in Neurodegeneration. Frontiers in aging neuroscience, 13, 786897. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2021.786897 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8764243/#S10

De Cecco, M., Ito, T., Petrashen, A. P., Elias, A. E., Skvir, N. J., Criscione, S. W., Caligiana, A., Brocculi, G., Adney, E. M., Boeke, J. D., Le, O., Beauséjour, C., Ambati, J., Ambati, K., Simon, M., Seluanov, A., Gorbunova, V., Slagboom, P. E., Helfand, S. L., Neretti, N., … Sedivy, J. M. (2019). L1 drives IFN in senescent cells and promotes age-associated inflammation. Nature, 566(7742), 73–78. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-018-0784-9   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30728521/

Vallés-Saiz, L., Ávila, J., & Hernández, F. (2023). Lamivudine (3TC), a Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor, Prevents the Neuropathological Alterations Present in Mutant Tau Transgenic Mice. International journal of molecular sciences, 24(13), 11144. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241311144 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446327/

Abudayyeh, O. O., Gootenberg, J. S., Essletzbichler, P., Han, S., Joung, J., Belanto, J. J., Verdine, V., Cox, D. B. T., Kellner, M. J., Regev, A., Lander, E. S., Voytas, D. F., Ting, A. Y., & Zhang, F. (2017). RNA targeting with CRISPR-Cas13. Nature, 550(7675), 280–284. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature24049 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28976959/

Zhu, Y., Zhu, L., Wang, X., & Jin, H. (2022). RNA-based therapeutics: an overview and prospectus. Cell death & disease, 13(7), 644. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41419-022-05075-2 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41419-022-05075-2

Gorbunova, V., Seluanov, A., Mita, P. et al. The role of retrotransposable elements in ageing and age-associated diseases. Nature 596, 43–53 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-021-03542-y https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-03542-y#citeas

Saleh, A., Macia, A., & Muotri, A. R. (2019). Transposable Elements, Inflammation, and Neurological Disease. Frontiers in neurology, 10, 894. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2019.00894 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31481926/

https://www.bioworld.com/articles/521677-antisense-oligonucleotides-targeting-line-1-rna-could-be-used-to-treat-premature-aging

In the Shadows of War— How Trauma Writes Its Legacy on the Bodies of Women and Children

Sadaf Sarfraz
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In the Shadows of War— How Trauma Writes Its Legacy on the Bodies of Women and Children

Some wars end with ceasefires. And then some wars live on in the womb, in the DNA, in the tear ducts of children too young to understand what they’ve inherited— A Trauma!

When the Guns Go Silent, the Wounds Begin to Speak

War isn’t just about showing off weapons or power. It’s a chain of broken families, incomplete homes, cries that never stop, and torn hearts. It destroys homes, schools, hospitals, and even animal shelters. It doesn’t just take lives, it rewrites them. Long after bullets stop flying and ceasefires are declared, the damage continues in quieter, more insidious ways.

It goes into the bones, into the womb, into the invisible strands of DNA that link one generation to the next. Long after it settles, war continues to live in the bodies of survivors. A sudden noise that sends a child into panic. A mother rocks her restless baby, unsure whether the cries are from hunger or inherited fear. These are not just memories, they are biological imprints. Trauma rewires the nervous system, and science is only beginning to understand how deeply war reshapes the human body and mind.

Epigenetics: When Memory Becomes Molecule

In recent years, a growing body of research has revealed that trauma doesn’t stop at the mind; it alters the body on a molecular level. The science of epigenetics explores how environmental stressors, like war and displacement, can modify gene expression without changing the underlying DNA sequence. Think of it as the body underlining certain sentences in the genetic script, telling them to be louder or quieter based on what it’s lived through.

Trauma doesn’t stop at the mind, it alters the body on a molecular level
Trauma doesn’t stop at the mind, it alters the body on a molecular level

A study on Syrian refugee families (Science, 2021) found that trauma-induced changes in stress-regulation genes were present not only in survivors but in their children and even grandchildren. Holocaust survivors and their offspring show similar alterations, specifically in how their bodies manage cortisol, the stress hormone (Scientific American). In simple terms, a mother’s fear doesn’t just live in her memories. It lodges itself in her cells and can be passed down.

This pattern is tragically echoed in Gaza. Decades of conflict have subjected Gazan women to extreme hardship, from displacement and loss of family members to inadequate healthcare and ongoing violence. Pregnant women face immense stress, with many giving birth in bomb shelters or hospitals under siege.

Studies and reports from humanitarian organizations like UNICEF and WHO highlight that high rates of maternal stress and trauma in Gaza correlate with increased risks of premature births, low birth weights, and developmental challenges in newborns( Gaza Pregnant Women)

Moreover, emerging research suggests that chronic stress experienced by pregnant women in war zones like Gaza can induce epigenetic changes in their children, affecting how genes related to stress response and mental health are expressed. In this way, the trauma of war transcends individual experience, embedding itself in the biology of future generations.

For women in war, survival is only the beginning. Their bodies become living archives of violence and resilience, carrying the silent burden of conflict long after the fighting stops. The maternal body is both battlefield and sanctuary, bearing the complex imprint of war’s legacy.

A pregnant Syrian woman carries her child at a compound housing Syrian refugees in Sidon
The deepest battles are fought in the quiet of a mother’s body. A study on Syrian refugee families found that trauma-induced changes in stress-regulation genes were present not only in survivors but in their children and even grandchildren. Image credit: Reuters

Women— the First and Last Witnesses of Trauma

Women do not merely survive war, they absorb it. They are raped, starved, displaced. They bury children. They raise others alone. They stitch together the ruins. And even when the war ends, their bodies keep the score.

A study of women who survived wartime sexual violence in Kosovo showed that their children born in times of so-called peace had higher cortisol levels and altered epigenetic markers tied to anxiety and depression, ResearchGate. In these cases, the war field is not just geopolitical. It is maternal. The womb carries more than life. It carries a legacy.

Children of War: Ghosts in New Skins!

Children who are conceived or born in war often display symptoms that they cannot explain chronic sadness, outbursts, or disconnection from their peers. Some carry anxiety as if it were a birthmark. In a traumatic World War II study, daughters of women evacuated during air raids were significantly more likely to be hospitalized for psychiatric illness later in life (Meredith Daly, November 29, 2017).

These daughters never heard of a bomb, but their mothers did. And those screams, those clenched fists, seem to have whispered into the womb. We call it “inexplicable” sadness, but the explanation is written in methyl groups and cortisol pathways (Scispace)

Can Love Undo the Genetic Echo?

If trauma can be inherited, can healing be too?

The hopeful answer: yes. Recent studies suggest that psychosocial interventions can reverse or dampen some trauma-related epigenetic marks. In Kosovo, a family-based mental health program showed that children of traumatized mothers who received therapy exhibited improved epigenetic profiles (dignity).

Another approach, Narrative Exposure Therapy, in which survivors chronologically reconstruct their life stories in a therapeutic setting, has been found to ease PTSD and reduce trauma-linked gene changes (Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET).In other words, just as trauma can write itself into our biology, love, safety, and storytelling might help rewrite that script.

What Will We Pass On?

This is not just a story about refugees in Syria or mothers in Kosovo. It’s about what the body remembers, what the mind cannot forget, and what generations unknowingly carry. Women and children are often painted as footnotes in the grand narratives of war. But they are the main text of the bodies where the war continues to unfold, even in peacetime.

This legacy, etched in cells and scars, poses a question for us all:

What will we pass on?

Let it be true. Let it be healing. Let it be the belief that even a war-marked body can one day learn peace.

More from the Author: It Begins with a Heartbeat: The Quiet Power of Science and Health in Healing a Nation from Within

Modern Warfare Redefined: Dr Tughral Yamin on the Indo-Pak War 2025

Hifz Ur Rehman
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Modern Warfare Redefined: Dr Tughral Yamin on the Indo-Pak War 2025

Today, war is no longer confined to battlegrounds, and understanding the interaction between strategy, technology, and statecraft has never been more urgent, especially in South Asia especially the sub-continent, where tensions and military advancements continue to shape regional dynamics.

To discover these convolutions, Scientia Magazine speaks with Dr. Tughral Yamin, an exceptionally qualified expert who bridges the gap between military command and strategic scholarship. A retired Brigadier of the Pakistan Army, Dr. Tughral Yamin served from 1974 to 2008 in a variety of command, staff, and international roles, including peacekeeping deployment in Somalia (1992–93) and as Pakistan’s senior delegate to the ASEAN Regional Forum in 2005. He concluded a decorated military career with the award of Sitara-i-Imtiaz.

Following retirement, Dr. Tughral pursued a second career in academia, becoming the first PhD graduate in Defence and Strategic Studies from Quaid-e-Azam University. He later joined the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), where he became the founding Associate Dean of the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) in 2013. Under his leadership, the center launched its PhD program and hosted international peace and conflict conferences.

Dr. Tughral has conducted advanced research on cyber confidence-building measures (CBMs) at Sandia National Laboratories in the United States. His written work includes numerous books and peer-reviewed journal articles on topics ranging from nuclear deterrence and CBMs to asymmetric warfare and strategic doctrines.

Dr.Tughral-Yamin - Institute of Policy Studies
Dr. Brig. (Retd.) Tughral Yamin SI (M) served in Pakistan Army 1974-2008. Credit: IPS

With deep insight into the Indo-Pakistan conflict and its implications for modern warfare, Dr. Yamin helps us unpack what it means to deter, defend, and adapt in the age of hybrid threats of war.

Hifz: You’ve moved from military command to academic leadership. How do you reflect on this transition?

Dr. Tughral Yamin: The transition from military command to academic leadership was relatively seamless for me. Both environments require discipline, planning, and leadership, skills that naturally carry over. The main contrast I experienced was in the setting. In the military, a considerable portion of my time was spent in the field, often in challenging environments, focusing on real-time operational decisions.

In contrast, the academic world offered a more structured and comfortable setting, with lectures delivered in multimedia-equipped halls and interactions driven by discussion and research. While the context changed, the mission of serving, mentoring, and contributing to national development remained the same, just through different tools and platforms.

Hifz: How do you assess the strategic and technological dimensions of the recent India-Pakistan conflict?

Dr. Tughral Yamin: The strategic and technological aspects of the recent standoff between India and Pakistan marked a notable departure from previous crises. What stood out initially was India’s use of a false flag operation as a starting move—an aggressive gambit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, his subsequent decisions reflected strategic miscalculations.

Despite possessing modern military hardware, the Indian forces could not translate that into a decisive advantage on the ground. In contrast, Pakistan’s armed forces showcased superior professionalism, coordination, and technical capability, which ultimately gave it the upper hand.

war briefing
DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry addresses a media briefing with PAF and Pak Navy officers.

One of the most surprising outcomes was India’s failure to secure meaningful international support. Instead of isolating Pakistan, Modi’s approach inadvertently revived the Kashmir issue on the global stage and re-established the India-Pakistan hyphenation that Indian diplomacy had long sought to dismantle. Ironically, this opened the door for third-party mediation, most notably, U.S. President Donald Trump stepped in to play the role of a peacemaker. In trying to assert dominance, India may have unintentionally undermined its strategic position.

Hifz: How do you view the role of hybrid warfare, such as disinformation, cyberattacks, and economic coercion, alongside conventional weapons?

Dr. Tughral Yamin: War is not only the application of brute kinetic force. It includes diplomacy, economy, psyops (psychological operations), propaganda, and cyber operations. These tools are used not only to weaken the adversary but also to shape narratives and disrupt decision-making processes without engaging in direct combat. The national leadership should be steadfast, and the nation should support its armed forces.

During the recent India-Pakistan conflict, we saw all these dimensions in full play. Pakistan was able to manage these aspects effectively due to its coherent strategy and well-coordinated institutions. Its soldiers, sailors, and airmen were better trained and motivated, and the nation firmly stood behind them.

Hifz: How did media and psychological tactics affect public and political reactions?

Dr. Tughral Yamin: In times of crisis, information becomes a weapon—used to influence morale, control public sentiment, and signal strength or vulnerability to the international community. Psychological operations and media narratives do shape the public perception and political discourse during the conflict.

Pakistan’s response in this domain was measured and strategic. The clarity and professionalism of its messaging, combined with visible military preparedness, reassured the population and demonstrated resolve to external observers. We have seen that the unity between the armed forces and the public was particularly striking. This cohesion amplified Pakistan’s psychological edge and neutralized attempts at propaganda or misinformation.

What the conflict underscored was the need to stay prepared across its full spectrum, from low-intensity engagements to potential strategic escalation. The ability to respond swiftly and effectively at every level of the escalation ladder remains central to Pakistan’s defense thinking. As a result, future planning and procurement will likely continue to focus on enhancing the precision, readiness, and interoperability of conventional forces, while sustaining the credibility of its strategic deterrent.

More from the Author: Classroom Conundrum: The Hidden Crisis of Science Without Experiments with Shagufta Naheed

May – Month of Patents, Dandy Horse and our Sewing Patterns

Aqsa Abdul Qadeer
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May – Month of Patents, Dandy Horse and our Sewing Patterns

May is the month of patents; from ice machines to Tesla’s cool tech things – everything got a patent. It is the month when we got our infamous condensed milk too – the sweet syrup on our traditional Gola Ganda. We have compiled a list of ten main events that happened this month in the past.

May 1, 1888

Nikola Tesla is the name we all know for his interest in electricity and his capability to make it free for everyone. Yet this was not achieved, but do you know that the coolest guy got patent #308,280 from the U.S, the electrical transmission of power, which was titled as “Electromagnetic Motor.”

It had a comprehensive polyphase alternating current (AC) system. The system was far better than the system Thomas Edison had made. Tesla’s design relied on rotating magnetic fields, which he could use because of his prior induction motor patents for electricity transmission at high voltages.

Tesla’s system worked as the foundation stone for the development of modern AC power grids, which were then used in the Niagara Falls hydropower project. The project was responsible for power transmission in Buffalo. Our current electricity transmission system is based on Tesla’s principles.

May 6, 1851

We all love icy slushes and juices, but do you the machine in which your juice’s ice is made was the by-product of the effort of multiple inventors and thinkers. One of them was John Gorrie, a physician. He received the US patent #8,080 for the machine that laid the foundation for modern air conditioners and refrigerators.

Gorrie built a machine to treat yellow fever and malaria patients in Florida. His machine used to collect compressed air, which was expanded by absorbing heat, leading it to become ice. Although his system faced financial failures because of a lack of investments, it revolutionized food preservation and climate control mechanisms, and the current systems are still based on his principles.

May 10, 1752

We often associate Benjamin Franklin with the US, but the renowned politician was also a scientist who invented the odometer, iron furnace stove, bifocal glasses, and lightning rod.

On this day, Franklin tested his lightning rod, aiming to save buildings from lightning strikes. He passed a hypothetical statement that a metal rod can streamline the path to move away the electrical charge from the building structures. His theory was later confirmed when he conducted the kite experiment in 1752.

Initially installed on a building in Philadelphia in 1753, Franklin’s invention laid the foundation for the modern lightning protection system.

May 14, 1853

On this day, Borden got US Patent #9,937 to concentrate the milk. To make condensed milk, he heated the milk in a vacuum to remove water; afterward, he added sugar as a preservative to make it shelf-stable. His invention aimed to solve the issue of unsafe milk so that a durable edible item would be supplied for military rations and urban populations.

Borden opened two factories of condensed milk, but they failed; his third factory worked, in which he sold the product under the name of Eagle Brand.

Although Borden’s invention was not as heroic as Tesla’s, it gave direction to our food industry, specifically food preservation.

May 15, 1859

Marie Curie is an inspiration to many male and female working and aspiring scientists. She shared one of the Nobel Prizes with her husband, Pierre Curie, a renowned physicist.

This French physicist was born on 15th March. He was a pioneer in magnetism, radioactivity, crystallography, and piezoelectricity. For his work on the discovery of radium and polonium, he received the Nobel Prize in 1903, which he shared with his infamous wife, Henri Becquerel. Pierre Curie was the first man to receive the Nobel Prize as a married couple. His family continued the legacy with his daughter winning the same prize.

May 17, 1940

The graphical user interface is the core of gaming, but this GUI is the product of the efforts of Alan Kay, a computer scientist. He was born on 17 May in a modest family.

Kay was the reason why we had object-oriented programming and personal computers. He worked at Xerox PARC (Palo Alto Research Center) in the 1970s, where he built a prototype for today’s laptops called Dynabook. Alan Kay’s Smalltalk, the earliest version of an object-oriented programming language, inspired Microsoft Windows and Apple’s Macintosh. It has evolved software design globally.

May 20, 1830

How many of you have used ink or a fountain pen in schools during secondary classes?

Well, that fountain pen hides a history of its makers; one of them was D.Hyde; he got a US patent # 6,163 to develop a practical fountain pen that would replace dip pens and quills. His ink pen had a reservoir of ink inside that used capillary action to push the ink to the nib for writing purposes. It was a self-feeding pen because a person did not have to feed ink to the nib; the pen would feed the ink itself. Although his pen was not the first self-feeding pen, it played a significant role in inventing a pen that would be produced massively in the late 19th century.

patents
Burner’s gramophone revolutionized the modern music industry.

May 20, 1851

Our granddads and white-haired aunties tell us about their childhood memories with the gramophone, but do they know about its maker?

Well, their gramophone was the invention of Emile Berliner. He was a German-American inventor who was born on 20 May. Burner got the US patent for his audio device in 1887. It was the first device to play flat by rotating discs. He used lateral-cut discs because they were affordable and could be stored easily. Burner’s gramophone revolutionized the modern music industry.

May 22, 1819

The bicycle that we and our siblings ride was first introduced in New York; it was known as “swift walker” (or Draisienne) – the earliest human-powered wheeled transport. Unlike today’s bicycle, the swiftwalker had no pedals, due to which riders had to push their feet against the ground to move it. Swiftwalker was inspired by the invention of Karl Drais in 1817.

May 29, 1826

Has your US-based auntie told you about pre-cut clothes and sewing patterns? If yes, then you must know its inventor, Ebenezer Butterick!

Ebenezer Butterick invented tissue-paper-made sewing patterns with the help of his wife, Ellen. The two noticed the lack of clothing templates, which led them to come up with an idea that made life easier for home sewers. The couple started with children’s garments and revolutionized the fashion industry in the 19th century.

More from the Author: Adult Fruit Fly Brain Mapped: A Giant Leap to Understand the Human Brain?

The STEM Whisperer: The Role of Female Tutors in Attracting More Women

Abeer Asif
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The STEM Whisperer: The Role of Female Tutors in Attracting More Women

“I don’t think you have it in you, you might as well just give up”, my 6th-grade Math teacher said with a mix of exasperation and sarcasm. I looked at him and smiled awkwardly before turning back to my friend and giggling like those words hadn’t engraved themselves onto my heart.

15 years, an A* in Math, and a continuous string of scholarships later, I still remember his words. Despite his doubt, I did have it in me.

What had changed, you may ask?

I met teachers who believed in me and pushed me to be more than I thought I was capable of.

Call it a delusional sense of belief in your students, but when your female principal tells a student who barely passed the entrance exam, “I believe in you. You can and you will!”, it stirs something up. Something that feels borderline silly, but something that pushes you to start believing in yourself, too.

Something that lets you whisper to yourself phrases like “I can do it” or scribble on a post-it and paste on your wall, “You don’t want to look back and know you could’ve done better”. It makes you push yourself until you see results, and once you do, these results build up the confidence to produce even more goals, dreams, and successes.

A teacher is not just a person, they are a magical being that infuses hope and wonder, eventually inspiring students to take the steps needed to convert a dreamer into a doer.

The impact a teacher plays in a child’s life is extraordinarily unique, and even a small session may leave you either inspired or demoralized, possibly even changing the trajectory of your entire life. I say this without the slightest hint of exaggeration.

Multiple studies explore the topic of education, but there was one particular study that caught my interest. Retrieved from Annenberg Institute at Brown University and published in EdWorking Paper in May 2025, the study explores the role of gender in education.

Joshua Bleiberg, assistant professor at the university of  Pittsburgh; Carly D. Robinson, senior researcher at Stanford; Evan Bennett, graduate student at Penn state; and Sussana Loeb, a professor at the Stanford Graduate School of Education, worked together to observe the effect of gender on learning and education, specifically in pursuing a STEM field.

They did this by finding 422 ninth graders taking the Algebra 1 course in New England schools and pairing them with opposite or same-gender tutors [1]. Over time, they unraveled a fascinating pattern.

Bleiberg et. al found that boys seemed to have a higher natural interest in STEM, and so there didn’t seem to be a significant difference regardless of whether they were tutored by a male or female teacher. However, this was drastically different for the girls! Girls paired with a female tutor not only did significantly better in the course, but also reported a higher interest in STEM fields overall [1].

Despite great efforts to bring women into STEM fields, there still seems to be a vast gap between the two genders in STEM careers [2]. A possible reason for this is a lack of interest/connection to math at an early age [3].

Hence, this study shows that female tutors are effectively bringing more girls into STEM and inspiring them to pursue a career that they may not have initially been interested in.

This study offers a revolutionary framework where Pakistani schools, academies, and personal tutoring services should not only perform similar studies to assess the relevance of such results in Pakistan, but also begin galvanizing women to take on more leading roles in education, specifically for male-dominated STEM-relevant subjects like Math. Services like “Dot and Line Pakistan” or “Teach for Pakistan” are a perfect example of steps towards this change, as their services connect young girls with skilled female teachers in a safe and growth-mindset-centered setting, inspiring them to pursue STEM-relevant fields.

This article is not meant to dissuade opposite-gender teachers, but to galvanize female teachers to step up and join the vast amounts of already present change-makers in education. Together, we can help change things for the better!

References:

  1. Bleiberg, J., Robinson, C. D., Bennett, E., & Loeb, S. (2025). The Impact of Tutor Gender Match on Girls’ STEM Interest, Engagement, and Performance.
  2. Charlesworth, T. E., & Banaji, M. R. (2019). Gender in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics: Issues, causes, solutions. Journal of Neuroscience, 39(37), 7228-7243.
  3. Blanchard Kyte, S., & Riegle-Crumb, C. (2017). Perceptions of the social relevance of science: exploring the implications for gendered patterns in expectations of majoring in STEM fields. Social Sciences, 6(1), 19.

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