Pune NGO to educate children of Pahalgam tourism workers who helped victims

PUNE: Sarhad, a Pune-based NGO, has announced plans to provide educational support to over 100 children of pony herders, tourist operators, and cab drivers who assisted tourists during the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam.In the aftermath of the tragic incident, local Kashmiri youths—many who are Sarhad alumni—demonstrated remarkable courage and compassion. "These young men, instead of succumbing to fear, stood with stranded tourists, offering them safety, comfort, and dignity in their need," Sanjay Nahar, founder president of Sarhad, said.Nahar added that the organization has identified approximately 200 individuals who helped tourists during the crisis. Their children will receive education in Sarhad-operated schools in Aragam (Bandipur district) and Dardpora (Kupwara district)."This new educational initiative targets the underprivileged children of Pahalgam's tourism workers who form the backbone of the region's hospitality sector. They remain economically and socially marginalized," he added.The programme, led by Sarhad alumni Zahid Bhat, Sirajuddin Khan, Aqib Bhat, Adil Malik, and Mustaq Khoja, will provide quality education and nutritional support. The first phase will focus on school-level education within Kashmir itself, offering hostel facilities and academic support at Sarhad-run schools. Later phases will include higher education opportunities in Pune for the meritorious.Nahar said the courageous actions of many youths who were among the first responders providing food, medical assistance, transportation, and emotional support to stranded tourists is exemplary. Nasir Aslam Wani, chief advisor to the chief minister of Jammu & Kashmir has communicated this initiative to the state government, Nahar added.