Shabroz Malik
Baramulla, June, 24; The Old Town Baramulla, once known for its turbulent past, is witnessing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the GAASH Academy. This initiative is reshaping the town’s future by providing educational opportunities to its children.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 19 Infantry Division in Baramulla, Major General Rajesh Sethi, SM, VSM, visited GAASH Academy to honor the achievers and support the initiative. The academy, run by philanthropist Sheikh Mudasir, offers free education to approximately 80 underprivileged children and orphans from kindergarten to Class X.
The academy aims to channel the energy of these children towards positivity and modern education.
During his visit, Maj Gen Sethi was accompanied by Mrs. Paramjit Sethi, who engaged with the parents, who expressed their gratitude towards Mr. Mudasir for his contributions to their children’s education and thanked the Indian Army for their consistent encouragement and support. Brigadier Rajat M. Bhatt, the Baramulla Brigade Commander, was also present at the event.
In support of the academy’s efforts, sports kits, stationery, and financial aid of Rs 3 Lakhs were presented. Previously, the Army had sponsored a computer system, generator, furniture, blankets, and other essential amenities.
Maj Gen Sethi emphasized the importance of education in fostering the holistic development of children, particularly noting their impressive performance in recent exams. He highlighted its role in shaping a prosperous future for Kashmir. Brigadier Bhatt commended GAASH Academy’s efforts in educating the aspirational children of Old Town Baramulla.
Mudasir expressed his gratitude for the visit, stating, “I am deeply thankful to the Indian Army for their unwavering support and encouragement. I urge all parents to encourage their children to pursue education diligently, as it is the key to a brighter and more prosperous future.” Once misled into separatist ideology, Sheikh Mudasir now counsels youth in Old Town to get educated and join the mainstream, despite threats. “Don’t ruin your lives,” he warns, reflecting on his past.
The academy’s impact is evident in the recent JKBOSE Class 10th exams, where all the students from GAASH Academy passed with flying colors. The top scorers include:
1. Zaid bin Firdous: 99%
2. Arbeen Javid: 96%
3. Mohd Hassan: 96%
4. Arooba Jaan: 95.85%
5. Izhai Hassan: 95.5%
6. Ayat Jaan: 95%
7. Hurmat Showket: 93.8%
8. Mohammad Fazil: 92.2%
9. Zainab Jaan: 92%
10. Shoib Ahmad: 91.86%
11. Adeefa Tanveer: 90.1%
The success of these students showcases the positive impact of GAASH Academy in channeling the children’s energies towards academic excellence and personal development.
The Dagger Division has been focusing on women empowerment and youth engagement initiatives in Baramulla. Their notable efforts include the Chinar YUVA Centre, a skill development hub for underprivileged youth, and the Dagger Parivaar School, the only educational and care facility for specially-abled children in the district. Parents in Old Town are particularly thankful to the Army for providing encouragement and opportunities to their children in Baramulla.
