English
Arabic
Chinese (Simplified)
Russian
Spanish
Urdu
Investing in education, the Indian Army’s Goodwill Schools illuminate the path to a brighter future, igniting hope and opportunity in the heart of Kashmir.
“Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs only to the people who prepare for it today”.
Kashmir is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, with its rivers and mountains earning it the moniker ‘Paradise on Earth’. However, beneath this natural splendour lies a tumultuous history of unrest, uncertainty, and terrorism, earning it a reputation marred by gun salutes, radicalization, and a pervasive culture of strikes (Hartaal). This unrest has profoundly impacted every aspect of society, especially education in Kashmir. Furthermore, the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits—many of whom were educators, professors, and administrators—dealt a significant blow to the region’s education system. This educational setback left young Kashmiris vulnerable to radicalization and recruitment into militancy. During the 1990s, wooden schools in rural areas were targeted and burnt by terrorists, and even in the 2000s, schools remained prime targets during periods of violence and unrest. Amidst this chaos, a beacon of hope emerged for the impoverished children of Kashmir—an opportunity to educate and empower them. The Army Goodwill Schools epitomized this hope,l emphasizing the transformative power of education as the most potent weapon against despair and radical ideologies.
The Army Goodwill Schools initiative began modestly in 1998 with four primary schools. Over time, as the people of Kashmir began to notice positive differences in these schools, the Indian Army expanded its efforts, establishing Army Goodwill Schools in every district. Presently, there are a total of 46 Army Goodwill Schools operating across J&K and Ladakh. In Kashmir, these schools fall under the supervision of the 15 Corps, numbering 26 institutions including notable ones like AGPS Pahalgam, APS Shivpora, and AGS Bandipora. In the Jammu division, 16 Goodwill schools are administered and monitored by the 16 Corps, while 4 schools operate in Ladakh under the oversight of the 14 Corps. Combined, these schools provide education to more than 15,000 students.
However, the Indian Army’s commitment to education extends beyond these schools. They have also provided assistance to approximately 1,900 state government-run schools in remote areas. This support includes renovating existing facilities, constructing additional classrooms, libraries, toilets, playgrounds, and sports facilities, as well as providing furniture, computers, educational software packages, stationery, and books. Over the past 15 years, this assistance has benefited around one lakh students, enabling them to receive middle and higher secondary-level education. These efforts reflect how the Indian Army has rekindled the flame of education in Kashmir, making a substantial impact on the region’s educational landscape.
One of the most remarkable aspects of these Army Goodwill Schools is their affordability. I have observed that the fees at these schools rarely exceed 1000 rupees per month, even as other “high-end” schools charge upwards of 10,000 rupees monthly. This low fee structure has instilled hope in children from economically disadvantaged families, allowing them to dream and strive for their aspirations. Furthermore, I discovered that these schools provide free education to students from extremely poor backgrounds. This commitment to affordability has empowered a segment of society that has long been deliberately kept educationally deprived. Additionally establishing these schools in remote areas has further empowered the children of these areas. Through these initiatives, the Army Goodwill Schools are transforming lives and breaking barriers that have persisted for decades.
The first impression of any institution is its infrastructure, and the Army Goodwill Schools have excelled in this aspect. Visiting any Army Goodwill School in J&K, you will be greeted by well-structured buildings, expansive playgrounds, paved footpaths, and even basketball courts—a rarity in schools across Kashmir. The campuses are well-fenced, and classrooms are equipped with decent
benches and modern amenities like digital and smart boards. This impressive infrastructure not only provides a conducive learning environment but also motivates students, reassuring them that quality education is attainable at an affordable cost.
The recruitment of local residents for teaching and non-teaching positions at Army Goodwill Schools has not only provided a ray of hope to the educated yet unemployed youth in the surrounding areas, but also uplifted their families who rely on these salaries for their daily sustenance. This initiative sets these schools apart from other so-called ‘high-end’ schools, where the owners may be Kashmiri but the staff members are often brought in from other parts of the country, leaving educated local youth on the fringes of despair. By prioritizing local employment, the Army Goodwill Schools not only contribute to economic stability within the community but also foster a sense of ownership and pride among the staff, creating a more inclusive and supportive educational environment. This approach not only addresses unemployment among educated locals but also strengthens community bonds and ensures that the schools remain closely connected to the cultural and social fabric of the region. By empowering local talent and providing employment opportunities, the Army Goodwill Schools contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the communities they serve.
Conclusion
In the heart of Kashmir’s challenges, the Army Goodwill Schools shine brightly, illuminating pathways to a brighter future for its youth. By prioritizing affordability, local empowerment, and transformative infrastructure, these schools transcend mere education—they ignite hope and opportunity, nurturing a generation poised to shape a new narrative of resilience and progress in the region. Through their dedication and vision, the Indian Army’s Goodwill Schools embody the transformative power of education, paving the way for a tomorrow defined by knowledge, aspiration, and unity.
Email: Vadaiekashmir@gmail.com
