Normal life of the villagers near the Line of Control in the remote areas of Poonch and Rajouri District is often disrupted due to regular Ceasefire Violations and firing from across the Line of Control. The biggest loss is of the school going children who, despite being extremely talented, are deprived of the opportunities available to their peers elsewhere.
Bhimber Gali Brigade of Indian Army started the Pinewood School in 1995 for children of remote areas at Hamirpur in Mendhar subdivision of Poonch District. It was started in two tents and now has grown into a full-fledged Higher Secondary School. Many students of this school are now successful professionals in various fields, like doctors, teachers, govt officials, police officers, etc.
This year has been particularly challenging because of COVID-19 lock down. While online classes could be conducted in other parts of the country, the children of the border areas struggled due to poor connectivity and limited access to the internet. Throughout the period, with the help of the Indian Army, the Pinewood School reached out by sending teachers to forward areas to conduct classes in small groups regularly.
On the occasion of Army Day on 15 Jan 2021, to bring cheer to the dull year, Bhimber Gali Brigade of the Indian Army and the Pinewood School, Hamirpur are organising Misaal; a Unique Expression of Talent by girl students of remote areas of Poonch and Rajauri district. Girls from these remote areas in Poonch and Rajouri Districts are enthusiastic learners and very talented in every fields which makes them important contributors to the vibrant society of the region. They brave many challenges with a smile and are extremely motivated to excel.
Misaal is a great opportunity for young students of these remote areas to showcase their talent in the fields of arts, painting, music, dance, debate, etc. Indian Army has also planned for counselling sessions for girl students to introduce them with various professional opportunities available in today’s world, to make them independent and successful professionals. The event will also provide opportunity to the young aspirants to express themselves during a panel discussion to voice their aspirations and how they wish to overcome the challenges they face while living in these remote areas.
The Army has also organised a food festival bringing in delicacies from various parts of the country for the local students to enjoy the flavours of India.
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Nazim Ali Manhas is a Poonch based photojournalist
