Opinion | Empowering Kashmir’s Youth: The Role of Army Goodwill Schools in Nation-Building

Army Goodwill Schools offer a conducive environment where young minds are shaped, instilling values of altruism and inclusive growth. Here, children learn the significance of contributing not only to their own development but also to that of others and the nation at large. Values such as teamwork, fair play, cooperation, diligence, and ethical conduct become the cornerstone of Nation Building.
Embarking on this exploration, we all share a fundamental belief: education stands as the foremost catalyst for change in our world. Nowhere is this belief more poignant than in the turbulent landscape of Kashmir, where the spectre of terrorism has long cast its shadow over every aspect of life. Among the sectors most profoundly affected, education bore the brunt of these upheavals. The departure of Kashmiri Pandits, many of whom were educators—school teachers, professors, and lecturers—dealt a severe blow to the region’s educational fabric. However, amidst the turmoil, a beacon of hope emerged: the concept of Army Goodwill Schools rose to prominence. As I delve into this narrative, it’s important to acknowledge my personal connection. Both my brother and I are products of the Army Goodwill Schools. While I attended the day-boarding school, my brother experienced both day-boarding and boarding education This firsthand experience positions me to authentically explore the transformative impact these institutions have had on Kashmir’s educational landscape. Join me as we uncover the profound changes these schools have wrought upon Kashmir’s education sector.
If ever asked to define the essence of the word “Army,” I’d hesitate not to say “Discipline.” This characteristic stands as the cornerstone that sets Army Goodwill Schools (AGSs) apart from other government or privately-aided educational institutions. As my brother and I have both attended Army Goodwill Schools, with his particular institution being the Army Goodwill Public School in Pahalgam, I can personally attest to the regimented yet nurturing environment they provide. When I inquired about my brother’s daily routine at AGPS Pahalgam, he shared the following details with me Each day commenced with the shrill whistle piercing the morning silence, rousing us at 5 a.m. for bed tea, and rigorous physical training—comprising running, volleyball, football, and various exercises—a ritual that set the tone for the day ahead. Following an hour of physical exertion, we’d assemble for roll call, then proceed to our hostels to freshen up before the mess doors opened promptly at 8 a.m. for a breakfast unique to each day of the week. Post-breakfast, another roll call signalled the transition to academic classes. The morning assembly, conducted in various languages, preceded a structured sequence of classes, tea breaks, lunch, games, preparatory sessions, and tuck shop visits, culminating in a final roll call around 7 p.m. in summers and 6 p.m. in winters. Upon returning to our hostels, we’d gather in the anti-room, where an LED TV awaited, providing 45 minutes of entertainment before dinner at 8 p.m. Following dinner, the evening was dedicated to study time until 10 p.m., when lights-out signalled the end of the day. This meticulously planned schedule, uniform for every student, instilled invaluable lessons in discipline and time-management—lessons that continue to shape my brother’s life today and will endure indefinitely.
Furthermore, Army Goodwill Schools distinguish themselves by their remarkable affordability and accessibility, particularly in remote regions. These institutions have broken down barriers to education by offering low-cost or even no-cost schooling options. Reflecting on my own experience, I recall paying a mere 250 rupees as monthly fees at my day-boarding school (AGS), a stark contrast to the hefty 1200-1500 rupees demanded by private-aided schools those days. This affordability not only eases the financial burden on economically disadvantaged families but also levels the playing field, granting underprivileged students equal opportunities to excel academically. By making education accessible to all, regardless of economic status, Army Goodwill Schools foster an environment where every child can aspire, learn, and compete on equal footing.
The infrastructure of Army Goodwill Schools stands as a testament to their commitment to holistic development. From well-maintained classrooms equipped with modern amenities like smart boards and comfortable desks to expansive playgrounds that encourage physical activity and sportsmanship, these schools offer a nurturing environment conducive to learning and growth. Beyond academics, students are provided with a myriad of opportunities for enrichment through co-curricular activities such as painting, singing, and more. These activities not only foster creativity and self-expression but also instil a sense of teamwork and camaraderie among students. Moreover, organized tours and excursions are a regular feature, allowing students to broaden their horizons and gain firsthand experiences beyond the classroom walls. Reflecting on my own schooling experience back in 2012, when the concept of benches or desks was virtually non-existent in schools within my area, the contrast was striking as our Army school boasted modern amenities like benches in every classroom and not one, but two smart boards. This emphasis on infrastructure not only enhances the learning environment but also underscores the commitment of Army Goodwill Schools to provide the best possible education to their students.
The Indian Army, under ‘Operation Sadbhavana,’ has significantly enhanced education in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) by establishing forty-six Army Goodwill Schools and supporting around 2000 schools in remote areas. Renovation, construction, and provision of educational materials have benefited over one lakh students, with scholarships granted to 850 from marginalized communities. Additionally, the Kashmir Super 30 project, in collaboration with the Centre for Social Responsibility and Leadership, has empowered academically brilliant students, with 17 out of 23 securing seats in prestigious engineering colleges. Expanding its efforts, the Indian Army now sponsors undergraduate courses and school education for youth from J&K and Ladakh in Army Welfare Education Society institutions nationwide, broadening their career horizons. Special attention is given to marginalized groups like the Gujjar/Bakarwals, with ‘Shepherds Schools’ providing quality education to their children in various receiving areas.
As the saying goes, ‘Youth is the power of the Nation,’ nurturing the youth with high-quality education and boosting their morale through well-deserved appreciation in diverse fields are vital roles played by the Indian Army in Kashmir. Initiatives like Army Goodwill Schools not only yield positive results in terms of numbers but also provide a pathway for social upliftment in a society that grapples with socio-economic challenges and constant threats of terror and uncertainty. Education stands as a potent tool for promoting social mobility. Army Goodwill Schools offer a conducive environment where young minds are shaped, instilling values of altruism and inclusive growth. Here, children learn the significance of contributing not only to their own development but also to that of others and the nation at large. Values such as teamwork, fair play, cooperation, diligence, and ethical conduct become the cornerstone of Nation Building.
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