Pahalgam, Oct 17: The Himalayan Welfare Organization (HWO), Jammu & Kashmir, celebrated the 209th birth anniversary of the legendary educationist, social reformer, and visionary Sir Syed Ahmad Khan in Pahalgam on Saturday with great enthusiasm and a renewed commitment to the cause of education.
The significant gathering witnessed the enthusiastic participation of scholars, academicians, writers, intellectuals, social activists, civil society members, community representatives, and stakeholders from diverse fields of life.
Organised in the picturesque surroundings of Pahalgam, the programme brought together people from different backgrounds, including both Aligs and non-Aligs, reaffirming the belief that Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s educational vision transcends institutional and social boundaries and belongs to humanity as a whole.
The participants paid rich tributes to Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, whose pioneering efforts towards modern education, scientific thinking, and social reform continue to inspire generations.
His enduring legacy, particularly the educational movement that led to the establishment of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), remains a powerful source of inspiration for those working towards educational advancement and social transformation.
One of the most poignant moments of the programme was the heartfelt remembrance of Dr. Zamir Ahmad Bhat Sahib, a distinguished son of the Lidder Valley and a dedicated educationist whose contributions to education and the welfare of the region will always be remembered with respect and gratitude.
Dr. Zamir Ahmad Bhat passed away on January 27, 2026, following a prolonged illness. The gathering offered prayers for the eternal peace of his departed soul and paid tribute to his dedication, services, and lasting contribution to society.
A founding member of Himalayan Welfare Organization–HWO J&K, Dr. Zamir Ahmad Bhat played a significant role in the organisation’s journey and remained deeply committed to educational advancement and social welfare. His life and work continue to inspire those who believe that education is the most powerful instrument of positive change.
The programme served as a meaningful tribute to his memory, reaffirming the participants’ resolve to carry forward the educational ideals he cherished and the mission championed by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
A major highlight of the event was the adoption of the Pahalgam Resolution, which received the support of a majority of the participants. The resolution made a strong appeal to the Government of India, the Ministry of Education, Aligarh Muslim University, and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to consider establishing an AMU campus in the Kashmir Division.
The participants emphasised the need to expand access to quality higher education and create greater academic opportunities for the youth of the region.
They observed that an AMU campus in Kashmir could help students pursue higher studies closer to home, ease the financial and geographical challenges faced by families, and promote academic excellence, research, innovation, and inclusive development.
Referring to AMU’s existing educational outreach through its centres in Murshidabad, West Bengal; Malappuram, Kerala; and Kishanganj, Bihar, the gathering expressed hope that a similar initiative in Kashmir would benefit students across the region and strengthen the educational landscape of Jammu & Kashmir.
The resolution called upon the concerned authorities to give the proposal serious consideration in the larger public interest and in view of the educational aspirations of the people. It was further resolved that the Pahalgam Resolution would be formally communicated to the relevant authorities and stakeholders for their consideration and necessary action.
Himalayan Welfare Organization–HWO J&K, with the support of Sarhad, Pune, Maharashtra, reiterated its commitment to pursuing this educational initiative through constructive advocacy, institutional engagement, and sustained efforts.
Another significant feature of the programme was the presentation of the Himalayan Green Awards 2026, organised by Himalayan Welfare Organization–HWO J&K.
This year, 16 individuals and institutions were honoured for their commendable contributions to the field of education. The awardees were recognised for their dedication, achievements, and efforts to improve educational opportunities and contribute to the academic and social development of the region.
In a deeply meaningful gesture, the Himalayan Green Awards 2026 were dedicated to the loving memory of Dr. Zamir Ahmad Bhat Sahib, honouring his commitment to education and his invaluable service to society.
Through this dedication, HWO J&K sought to keep his vision and values alive while inspiring educators, institutions, social workers, and future generations to continue working for educational progress and social betterment.
The awards also reaffirmed the organisation’s longstanding commitment to recognising individuals and institutions whose work creates a meaningful and lasting impact on society.
The enthusiastic participation of both Aligs and non-Aligs was a defining feature of the gathering. By bringing together people from diverse educational, intellectual, professional, and social backgrounds, HWO J&K sought to emphasise that Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s mission is not confined to any particular institution or community.
His vision of education, rational thinking, social reform, and human progress remains relevant to all sections of society. The gathering provided a common platform for people from different walks of life to reflect on his legacy and collectively explore ways to advance educational opportunities in Jammu & Kashmir.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s educational ideals, promoting educational awareness, recognising outstanding contributions, and working towards a brighter future for the younger generation.
The event was more than a commemorative celebration; it became a platform for remembrance, recognition, dialogue, and collective action. The adoption of the Pahalgam Resolution and the presentation of the Himalayan Green Awards 2026 reflected a shared determination to strengthen the educational landscape of Jammu & Kashmir.
The organisers expressed their sincere gratitude to all participating scholars, academicians, writers, intellectuals, award recipients, stakeholders, civil society members, social activists, community representatives, and supporters from various walks of life whose participation contributed to the success of the programme.
The central message emerging from the gathering was clear: education is the foundation of progress, the remembrance of great personalities keeps their legacies alive, and collective efforts can turn the educational aspirations of a region into reality.
