The education sector in Kashmir has long faced challenges due to terrorism, unrest, the hartaal culture, and street violence. For the first time since independence, the education system in Kashmir followed a full academic calendar after the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in 2019. Maintaining quality education in Kashmir has been particularly challenging, especially following the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits and the rise of terrorism in the 1990s. Schools in rural areas, often made of wood, were set ablaze by Pakistan-backed terrorists, compounding the crisis for the education sector. This dual blow, first the exodus and then the destruction of schools, pushed the student community to the fringes of despair.

However, in 1998, a beacon of hope emerged with the establishment of Army Goodwill Schools. These schools, named to reflect their purpose, have become a goodwill gesture for the students of Jammu and Kashmir. With the motto "Truth is God," these 45 schools across J&K have shaped, moulded, and guided underprivileged students from diverse academic backgrounds, including medicine, engineering, sports, and the arts,
Here I am highly impressed and want to unveil the story of a boy from Budgam whose future has been brightened by these schools. Tahir Abbas, born in Wanihama Beerwah (Budgam), took his first step by enrolling in Five Star Public School Sonium Pattan, a small private-aided school. After completing his primary education, Tahir’s uncle submitted an entrance form for the Army Goodwill Public School (AGPS) Pahalgam, an Army-aided residential school in the district of Anantnag. Fortunately, Tahir passed the entrance exam and was admitted to AGPS Pahalgam in 2014. Tahir’s uncle approached the concerned Rashtriya Rifles (RR) unit, initially the 53 RR, which supported Tahir financially.

How did AGPS change the life of Tahir?

Tahir revealed the importance of AGPS as a significant turning point in his career. He realized that these Army Goodwill Schools provide the environment necessary for the holistic development of a student. Tahir immediately mentioned that the most unforgettable help from the Indian Army was the financial support under Operation Sadhbhavna, which allowed him to study at a prestigious and renowned school like AGPS. The Army not only covered his academic fees but also his hostel, mess, uniform, stationery, and other essentials. Reflecting on his time at AGPS Pahalgam, Tahir described those five years as the most beautiful of his life. The school emphasized a blend of rigorous academics, a disciplined environment, and diverse extracurricular activities.
It instilled values of responsibility, leadership, and resilience, while fostering physical fitness and teamwork through sports and drills. During his time at AGPS, Tahir joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and later participated in the Republic Day Parade (RDC) in 2018. The school provided him with a suitable environment to grow both academically and in co-curricular activities. Tahir passed his matriculation in 2019, securing the position of second topper in his school. Following his matriculation results, he appeared for Aligarh Muslim University's common entrance test for higher secondary level, where he again brought laurels to his home by securing admission at Saiyyid Hamid Senior Secondary School Aligarh, affiliated with AMU. After excelling in his higher secondary results, Tahir appeared for the National Entrance Cum Eligibility Test (NEET) in 2022, scoring an impressive 645 marks.
It is important to note that Tahir, whose father is a laborer and mother is a housewife, belongs to a very modest family. He was again supported by the Indian Army’s initiative, ‘Army HPCL Super 50’. While students in J&K usually dream of securing admission to GMC Srinagar for their MBBS during the counselling procedure, Tahir’s NEET score could have easily landed him in this most desired college. However, he chose not to attend GMC Srinagar or any other medical college in J&K. Instead, he opted for the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) and, after qualifying in the basic admission procedures, finally joined AFMC Pune in 2022.

Tahir’s Life at AFMC

Tahir explained, "Life at AFMC is a blend of rigorous academic training and military discipline. We engage in intensive medical studies alongside physical fitness routines. The day starts at 6 in the morning with PT, followed by studies and clinics in the military hospital all day long." The unique combination of military discipline and comprehensive medical education at AFMC greatly motivated him to choose this esteemed institution. "The rigorous training, both academic and physical, promises to instill a sense of duty, resilience, and leadership in me. The opportunity to serve my country as a medical professional in the armed forces aligns perfectly with my aspirations." Additionally, Tahir highlighted the vibrant campus life at AFMC, characterized by camaraderie, extracurricular activities, and a supportive community, which ensures holistic development beyond traditional medical schooling. "I always wanted to be a doctor and an officer, and this was the only place where I could be both," Tahir revealed to me. The unique environment at AFMC, combining the best of medical education with military training, provides students with a distinctive edge, preparing them to excel both as medical professionals and as officers in the armed forces.
The journey of Tahir Abbas, from the rustic streets of Wanihama Beerwah to the prestigious halls of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, is a testament to the transformative power of education, resilience, and opportunity. His story, like many others, underscores the vital role that institutions like Army Goodwill Schools play in shaping the destinies of underprivileged students in Kashmir. The establishment of Army Goodwill Schools in the tumultuous landscape of Kashmir has been a beacon of hope, providing not just education, but also a nurturing environment conducive to holistic growth. These schools, with their motto "Truth is God," have become sanctuaries of learning, guiding countless young minds towards brighter futures. As we celebrate Tahir's achievements, let us also recognize the tireless efforts of the Indian Army in the education sector who continue to uplift and empower the youth of Kashmir. Their dedication to fostering a brighter future for generations to come is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity
The Inspiring Journey of Tahir Abbas of Budgam has inspired students across Kashmir to aspire for admission to army schools in the region. These schools, with their motto 'Truth is God,' have become sanctuaries of learning, guiding countless young minds towards brighter futures.

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