Baramulla, Oct 16: CHINAR International organised an awareness and engagement programme at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Baramulla, bringing together government officials, community leaders, business representatives and social activists to strengthen partnerships and support vulnerable children, youth and families.
The programme aimed to familiarise stakeholders with the organisation’s work, showcase its impact across different sectors and identify opportunities for collaboration in Baramulla district.
Assistant Director, Finance and Procurement, Javeed Hajam, introduced the organisation’s vision, mission and key programme areas. Presentations on community-based interventions and beneficiary stories highlighted how timely support had helped individuals overcome challenges and improve their lives.
Addressing the gathering, renowned psychiatrist and CHINAR International board member Dr Mushtaq Margoob stressed the need for collective responsibility in bringing social change.
“We all have our respective roles and something to offer. Everyone has to come forward if they want to see the real change in society,” he said, urging stakeholders to contribute actively to community development.
Shahid Ali, a small business support beneficiary from Odina village, shared how CHINAR’s assistance had helped him establish a sozni embroidery business that ensures fair wages and protects artisans’ dignity.
“I grew up seeing my parents doing sozni work day and night but still couldn’t make ends meet. Today, with the help of CHINAR, I am running a successful sozni business where artisans are not exploited but provided their due wages,” he said.
Board member Dr Farooq Ahmad Kaloo highlighted the role of community members in addressing social challenges, stressing the importance of civic sense and active participation.
Naseema Akhter, a parent, spoke about the educational challenges faced by children in her village, where many families depend on daily-wage labour. She said CHINAR’s educational assistance had helped one of her three daughters continue her studies and thrive.
“Children want to study but have no means or support. CHINAR supported one of my three daughters with education support, and today she is thriving. I don’t know how to thank them,” she said.
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