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Army conceptualizes semi organized school system

YB WEB DESK. Dated: 2/23/2021 12:14:17 PM

Ramban, Feb 22 Traditionally, Gujjar and Bakkarwal tribes live a migratory life seeking greener pastures for their live stock, along the grasslands of Pir Panjal Ranges. These tribes cover long distances along with their family and livestock, traversing the higher/ middle reaches of Pir Panjal, Riliyar and Tankimal Ranges. Owing to the nomadic life, the education of Gujjar and Bakkarwal children is non-existent or very poor. On request from the Gujjar and Bakkarwal Dera heads and parents, the Indian Army conceptualized a small scale and semi organized school system. These Gujjar and Bakkarwal Schools help in providing basic education and guidance to the young impressionable children of the tribes. Seven such schools were run by Indian Army across Pir Panjal Range. Gradually, schools have gained popularity and strength of students rose to 250. The noble act of opening schools for underprivileged is widely appreciated. Regular conduct of extracurricular activities like musical chairs, drawing, tug of war competition, etc were organised to attract them to attend classes every day. Physical distancing and other precautionary measures were strictly ensured in view of Covid-19 pandemic. Accordingly, all students were distributed with masks. Free school by Indian Army for the kids of Gujjar and Bakkarwal was well accepted by the community and there is a growing demand of similar schools in other sectors too. Such small scale schools have also been a source of employment for locals, who have lost their employment due to Covid-19. Seven teachers including three girls were hired for the smooth conduct of Gujjar and Bakkarwal schools at seven different locations to include Janpathri, Pathalan, Mori, Baranak, Nawan, Patitop and Nathatop. The primary subjects taught are English, Maths and General Knowledge. The efforts of Indian Army in assisting the rural community becoming educationally aware has paved way for an enlightened and bright future for the young ones of Gujjar and Bakkarwal community.