Pahalgam, Oct 18: The Himalayan Welfare Organization (HWO), J&K, with the support of Sarhad, Pune, Maharashtra, on Saturday sought the establishment of an Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) campus in Kashmir, adopting a resolution urging the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government to consider the proposal.
The resolution was adopted at a programme in Pahalgam marking the 209th birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the educationist and social reformer whose efforts led to the establishment of AMU.
The event brought together AMU alumni, academicians, scholars, writers, intellectuals, social activists, civil society members and community representatives, including both Aligs and non-Aligs.
The Pahalgam Resolution appealed to the Government of India, the Ministry of Education, AMU and the J&K government to establish a campus in the Kashmir Division to widen access to higher education and address the aspirations of local youth.
Participants said an AMU campus in Kashmir would allow students to pursue higher studies closer to home, ease the financial and geographical burden on families and create greater opportunities for academic excellence, research and innovation.
Citing AMU’s existing centres in Murshidabad in West Bengal, Malappuram in Kerala and Kishanganj in Bihar, the gathering called for similar educational outreach in Kashmir to benefit students across the region.
The resolution urged the concerned authorities to consider the proposal in the larger public interest. It was decided that the resolution would be formally communicated to the relevant authorities and stakeholders for consideration and necessary action.
HWO J&K, with Sarhad’s support, reiterated its commitment to pursuing the initiative through sustained advocacy and institutional engagement.
16 honoured with Himalayan Green Awards
The programme also featured the Himalayan Green Awards 2026, organised by HWO J&K, with 16 individuals and institutions recognised for their contributions to education.
The awards were dedicated to the memory of DrZamir Ahmad Bhat, a founding member of HWO J&K and an educationist from Hutmurah village in the Lidder Valley who died on January 27, 2026, following a prolonged illness.
An alumnus of AMU, Dr Bhat completed his graduation, postgraduate studies and doctorate in West Asian Studies at the university. He remained committed to educational advancement and social welfare in the region.
Participants paid tribute to his contributions to education and society and offered prayers for peace to his departed soul. The organisers said dedicating the awards to Dr Bhat was intended to honour his legacy and carry forward his commitment to educational progress.
Among those honoured were Sajad from Budgam, Zahoor and Bashir, along with award recipients from Kupwara. The names and individual award categories of all 16 recipients were not available in the information provided.
Sir Syed’s vision beyond institutional boundaries
“The participation of both Aligs and non-Aligs reflected the organisers’ emphasis on Sir Syed’s educational mission as one that transcends institutional and social boundaries,” HWO said.
It said participants recalled his efforts to promote modern education, scientific thinking and social reform, noting the continuing relevance of his vision to the educational and developmental needs of Jammu and Kashmir.
“The programme concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting educational awareness, recognising contributions to the education sector and expanding opportunities for the younger generation,” HWO said.
The organisers expressed gratitude to the participating scholars, academicians, award recipients, civil society members and other stakeholders for contributing to the programme.
About The Author
