Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana today praised and acknowledged the services of Maulana Ghulam Qadir Banday, a towering figure of Pir Panjal region who contributed immensely in  socio-educational reforms.

Addressing a distinguished gathering of civil society members, educationists and religious scholars at the Jamia Zia Ul Uloom Group of Institutions in Poonch, the Minister described Maulana Banday as a visionary reformer and spiritual guide whose transformative contributions to education have left an indelible mark on generations.

“Maulana Ghulam Qadir Banday Sahib is not just a religious scholar; he is the Sir Syed Ahmad Khan of Pir Panjal,” said Rana, invoking the revered 19th-century Indian reformer.

Rana said that Maulana Banday foresaw the need for harmonizing Islamic learning with modern education. He added that his initiatives lit the lamp of knowledge in a region once gripped by isolation and educational backwardness.

“His commitment to girls’ education, at a time when it was often neglected, demonstrated his progressive ideals and a deep understanding of societal reform. His efforts empowered not just individuals, but families and communities,” Rana stated.

The Minister further said that the Jamia Zia Ul Uloom, founded by Maulana Banday, has over the years emerged as a beacon of learning in the Pir Panjal region. He added that under his guidance, the institute produced scholars, civil servants, teachers and professionals who continue to contribute meaningfully in diverse spheres across Jammu & Kashmir and beyond.