In a heartening gesture of solidarity and gratitude, Sarhad, a Pune-based non-governmental organisation, has announced a comprehensive educational initiative for the children of tourism workers in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. These workers played a crucial role in safeguarding and supporting stranded tourists during the recent terror attack that shook the region.
Pahalgam, known for its breathtaking landscapes and as a gateway to the Amarnath Yatra, was recently the site of a devastating terrorist attack. The incident, which claimed at least 26 lives, stands as one of the deadliest in the valley in decades. Amidst the chaos, local pony herders, tourist guides, and cab drivers-many of whom are alumni of Sarhad-demonstrated remarkable courage and humanity. Instead of fleeing, these individuals provided food, shelter, medical assistance, and emotional support to tourists who found themselves stranded and terrified.
Sarhad Steps Forward with Educational Support
Moved by the selfless actions of these tourism workers, Sarhad has decided to extend educational support to over 100 children from these families. The initiative is being spearheaded by Sarhad alumni Zahid Bhat, Sirajuddin Khan, Aqib Bhat, Adil Malik, and Mustaq Khoja, who have been actively involved in both the relief efforts and the planning of this new programme.
Sanjay Nahar, founder president of Sarhad, emphasised the significance of the initiative. He noted that the children of Pahalgam’s tourism workers, who form the backbone of the region’s hospitality sector, have long faced economic and social marginalisation. “These young men, instead of succumbing to fear, stood with stranded tourists, offering them safety, comfort, and dignity in their need. Our new educational initiative is a tribute to their courage and a commitment to their families’ future,” he said.
In the first phase of the project, Sarhad will provide school-level education to the children within Kashmir, utilising its own schools in Aragam (Bandipur district) and Dardpora (Kupwara district). Hostel facilities and academic support will be offered, ensuring a nurturing environment for learning. The organisation has identified around 200 individuals who played a key role in assisting tourists during the crisis, and their children will be given priority for this support. All expenses, including education, accommodation, and related costs, will be borne by Sarhad. In later phases, meritorious students will be offered opportunities for higher education in Pune, further broadening their horizons.
The recent attack has had a devastating impact on Pahalgam’s tourism industry, leading to widespread cancellations and a sharp decline in visitor numbers. Many local workers now face severe economic hardship. By investing in the education of their children, Sarhad aims to provide these families with hope and a pathway to a brighter future, even as the region grapples with the aftermath of violence and uncertainty.
The initiative has also received official recognition, with Nasir Aslam Wani, chief advisor to the chief minister of Jammu & Kashmir, communicating Sarhad’s efforts to the state government. This underscores the importance of such civil society interventions in the broader context of rehabilitation and community resilience.
Sarhad’s swift and compassionate response-first in aiding stranded tourists, and now in supporting the families of those who stood on the frontlines-serves as a powerful example of how non-governmental organisations can make a meaningful difference in times of crisis. By focusing on education, the NGO not only honours the bravery of Pahalgam’s tourism workers but also invests in the long-term stability and prosperity of the region’s next generation.
As Pahalgam looks to rebuild, initiatives like these offer a glimmer of hope and reaffirm the enduring spirit of unity and compassion that binds communities across India.
