NEP 2020 one of the most ambitious reforms India has seen in decades. NEP talks about a shift—from rote learning to understanding, from exam pressure to joyful learning, from rigid streams to flexible choices.

There’s something powerful about education—it doesn’t just teach you to read and write, it teaches you how to live. If you’ve ever seen a child from a remote village grow up to become a doctor, a teacher, or even a thoughtful citizen, you’ll understand what I mean. Education isn’t about blackboards and exams alone. It’s about dignity. It’s about change. And most of all, it’s about transformation—of individuals, families, and whole societies. Now, let me speak from the heart. We often talk about “social transformation” like it’s a big, abstract idea. But it’s actually very simple. When people start thinking differently, treating each other with respect, asking questions, demanding better lives—that’s transformation. And what’s the first place where this change begins? The classroom. We’ve come a long way as a country. From the days when schooling was a luxury for the few, to now, when even the remotest villages have at least a primary school. But let’s not fool ourselves—access alone isn’t enough. The real question is: what kind of education are we offering? Are we teaching students to become just workers, or are we helping them become citizens with values, courage, and vision?

This is where the National Education Policy 2020—or NEP—comes into the picture. And to be honest, it’s one of the most ambitious reforms India has seen in decades. NEP talks about a shift—from rote learning to understanding, from exam pressure to joyful learning, from rigid streams to flexible choices. It says students should learn in their mother tongue at least till Grade 5. That’s a big step toward inclusion. Because when you teach a child in the language they dream in, you don’t just educate them—you empower them. NEP also recognizes that one size doesn’t fit all. It talks about vocational training from a young age, the integration of arts and sports with academics, and gives importance to mental health and well-being. It’s trying to blur the old line between science and humanities, between so-called ‘good’ and ‘ordinary’ careers. And that’s essential for a society like ours where talent is everywhere but opportunity is not. There are also government initiatives like the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, which is trying to unify and strengthen school education—from pre-primary to class 12. Or PM SHRI Schools, which aim to develop 14,500 model schools across India with modern facilities and smart classrooms. Then there’s the Digital India push—through DIKSHA and SWAYAM platforms—to provide quality learning material to everyone, anywhere. Of course, the digital divide is still a big issue, especially in rural and tribal areas. But the intention is clear: learning should not be limited by geography or income.

Let’s not forget schemes like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, which did more than raise slogans—it brought attention to the education of the girl child. We’ve seen girls from remote belts of Kashmir to desert villages in Rajasthan rise up and take their place in classrooms, even topping boards and cracking national exams. That’s not just academic success. That’s transformation—because when you educate a girl, you’re changing the destiny of an entire family. But there’s another side to this story, too. Let’s be honest—many schools are still struggling. Teachers are overburdened, infrastructure is weak, and sometimes the system is just too rigid to allow real creativity. Exams still haunt our children. Parents still push for marks more than understanding. And in many places, social discrimination still creeps into classrooms. That’s why we need more than policies. We need a mindset shift. We need to believe that every child—whether rich or poor, boy or girl, from a village or a city—deserves the same quality of education. And that education isn’t just about jobs. It’s about learning how to live with each other, how to think critically, how to listen and grow. You see, social transformation isn’t loud. It’s not always about protests or revolutions.

Sometimes, it’s as quiet as a mother teaching her daughter how to hold a pencil. Or a teacher explaining a science concept to a boy who has never seen a lab. Or a school celebrating Eid and Diwali together so children learn that difference is not division. And I say this with full conviction—no scheme, no budget, no policy will ever work unless the community gets involved. Parents, teachers, students, even us, as ordinary citizens—we need to care about our schools. We need to hold our institutions accountable, but also support them. We need to celebrate good teachers, fund libraries, open our minds to new ways of learning. Let’s also remember that education doesn’t stop at school. Life itself is a classroom. And our children are watching us. How we treat each other, how we speak about gender, caste, or religion—that too is education. That too shapes their worldview.

So yes, NEP is a good start. Government schemes are steps forward. But the real transformation—the kind that lasts—will come when education becomes personal to each of us. When we stop treating it as a ladder to success and start seeing it as a path to wisdom.

To all the students reading this, I want to say—don’t just learn to pass. Learn to question. Learn to build. Learn to care. And to the elders, the policymakers, the teachers—let’s not forget that in the eyes of a child, the world begins with us. Social transformation is not some faraway dream. It’s happening now. In small schools. In silent sacrifices. In the stubborn hope of a child who walks miles to study. Let’s honour that hope. Let’s educate to transform, and transform to uplift.

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Scattered along the picturesque Kishanganga River, these breathtaking border destinations offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. From the serene valleys of Gurez to the charming villages of Keran and Teetwal, each spot presents a distinct experience—whether it’s adventure, heritage exploration, or simply soaking in the tranquillity of the LoC’s landscapes.

Under the Modi government, socio-economic and infrastructural initiatives in the valley are playing a transformative role in connecting people with peace and prosperity. Improved road connectivity, power infrastructure, and digital services have revitalized these remote regions, making them more accessible to tourists. The Border Area Development Programme (BADP) and the Vibrant Villages Programme are fostering regional development, creating employment opportunities, and promoting local handicrafts and cultural tourism. With a sharp rise in tourist footfall, these initiatives are not only strengthening border tourism but also boosting local economies, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for communities, and reinforcing national integration.

The 245 kilometres long Kishanganga River originates in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir near the Krishansar lake and the popular tourist destination, Sonamarg. The river is a captivating watercourse that flows through the various breath-taking valleys of Kashmir. It covers 50 kilometres in the Kashmir valley the remaining 195 kilometres fall in  Pakistan occupied Kashmir .From its origin at Sonamarg , the river flows northwards through the Tulail and Gurez Valleys of  Kashmir before entering Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.  It then continues its course, winding through the Neelum Valley, a lush and picturesque area of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.  At village Tarabal in Baktoor sector of Gurez valley the river makes its first entry into Pakistan Occupied Kashmir at village Taobat  of Neelum District. As it enters Pakistan occupied Kashmir, the river is called the Neelum as the name of the river was changed to Neelum  in 1956 by Pakistan Government  after the partition of India in 1947.  Kalhanna in Rajatarangini has mentioned the river  as Sindhu. M.A Stein is said to have visited the area and have mentioned its name as valley of Kishen Ganga (Ibid 280).  At several places of Kupwara district and Bandipora’s Gurez Valley it forms the line of control at several places like Machil, Keran, Teetwal and Bagtoor.  The river finally merges with the Jhelum River near the city of Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.

Tributaries and Valleys:

The Kishanganga River is fed by numerous tributaries, including the Raman Sind, the Burzil stream, the Machil and the Kel dara, the Kankatori (or Samgan), and the Jagran River of POK. These tributaries contribute to the unique geography and the lush green valleys that the river flows through.

Religious Significance of the Kishanganga River:

The Kishanganga River holds immense religious importance for Hindus, particularly the Krishansar Lake and the Sharada Peeth, an ancient temple and learning centre situated near the river in Neelum valley of POK . These sites were visited by Hindu pilgrims during their annual pilgrimage in ancient period. The Sharada Peeth is revered by the Kashmiri Pandit community and is considered one of the most venerated sites for them. Sharada script, the native script for the Kashmiri language, is named in honor of the main deity of Sharada Peeth. The ancient Sharada Peeth temple, as well as the adjacent ruins of Sharada University  are situated in the same Neelam Valley just few miles from Keran . At shardi village where Sharda tample and University  is situated  the river Kishenganga (Neelum ) joins Madhumati and Sargun streams. Between the 6th and 12th centuries CE, it was among the most prominent temple universities in the Indian subcontinent. Kashmiri  Pandit brethren have been demanding opening of the Sharda Peeth corridor for many years now.

Ecological Importance of the River:

The Kishanganga River is home to a diverse ecosystem, with various fish species found in abundance in its waters. Some of the most famous fish species found in the river include the Brown trout (Salmo trutta), Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Snow trout (Schizothorax plagiostomus), Shuddgurn,and Anyour. The river’s proximity to the Line of Control and the uncertainty surrounding the region has resulted in sparse human settlements along its banks, allowing the river’s ecosystem to thrive. As India and Pakistan continue to invest in hydroelectric projects on the Kishanganga River, it is crucial to strike a balance between development and ecological preservation. The river’s rich biodiversity and its religious and historical significance make it an invaluable resource for both countries. It is essential for India and Pakistan to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation to ensure the sustainable and equitable utilization of the Kishanganga River and its resources for the benefit of their people and the environment.

Tourist Spots located on the Banks of  Kishanganga:   

I have visited almost all the areas through which the river flows. These include the border areas where this historic river acts as line of control dividing the humans living in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and in Kashmir valley. These areas were used as an infiltration corridor by the insurgent outfits in past and even now.  Thus the  Kishanganga river remains under strict observation of the security agencies. People living along LoC and Kishanganga have been victims of the shells and bombs and the much human blood have flown through the Kishanganga. As on February 25, 2021, India and Pakistan agreed to strictly observe all ceasefire agreements along the LoC and other sectors. With the efforts of Indian Army, the concept of border tourism  is a reality now.  Lets have a brief introduction of these Kishanganga areas :

Tulail Valley:

The Tulail Valley is a captivating region in  Kashmir where the Kishanganga River flows through. This valley is characterized by its striking landscape, rich vegetation, and abundant wildlife. It is an area of immense natural beauty, teeming with picturesque vistas and serene spots. Whether you’re looking to unwind in the peaceful surroundings or embark on adventures in the mountains, Tulail Valley offers a perfect escape from the chaos of city life. The simple pleasures of nature and quiet moments of solitude will nourish your soul. The Tulail Valley is sub-valley of Gurez which lies 120 kilometres northeast of Bandipora and 200 kilometres from Srinagar .  Tulail Valley lies immediate east of the Gurez Valley.

Gurez Valley:  

The Kishanganga River is the lifeblood of Gurez Valley, its turquoise waters meandering through the valley and offering ample opportunities for relaxation and adventure. The river is home to a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for trout fishing. Visitors can hire local guides to explore the river and its surroundings, and even indulge in some thrilling white-water rafting experiences. The Gurez is another mesmerizing area that the Kishanganga River traverses. This valley offers an enchanting blend of unspoiled natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. Gurez is located in the high Himalayas, about 86 kilometres from Bandipore town and 123 kilometres from Srinagar city, in northern Kashmir. At about 8,000 ft above sea level, the valley is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Razdan Pass connects this valley with Kashmir .The people of Gurez valley are ethnic Dards (Shins). They have the same styles of dress and culture as their kinsmen in Pakistan held Gilgit-Baltistan. Once part of ancient Dardistan, the valley of Gurez falls along the ancient Silk Route which connected the Kashmir Valley with Gilgit. In village Kanzalwan, the last Council of Buddhism is believed to have been held. Just a few miles away in Neelum Valley  is Sharda Peeth  named after the goddess of wisdom Saraswati.  It was an ancient centre of learning established in 273 B, even before the Takshila and Nalanda universities. Gurez’s most formidable peak is Habba Khatoon. This pyramid-shaped peak was named after the Kashmiri poet Habba Khatoon. Before the partition of Kashmir, Gurez was a destination for foreign tourists such as Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who is known to have visited the valley some time before he became the US president.

Bagtoor Izmarg: 

The area is part of Gurez Valley where from Kishenganga river makes its entry into Neelum Valley. Here Kheshanganga cross the LOC and forms the name Neelum. The last village from our side is called as Tarabal and the first village of POK is known as Taobat. Whole Bagtoor areas is as beautiful as rest of the Gurez valley.

Keran: 

Once part of  princely state Jammu and Kashmir , Keran valley got divided into two parts leaving thousands of souls separated from each other. Keran is a beautiful border area  with the Kishenganga (Neelum)  flowing through it, which acts as line of control  between  Pakistan Occupied   Kashmir  and Jammu and Kashmir.  On the other side of Kishanganga River is Neelum  Valley of Pakistan Administered Kashmir and the village located to the opposite  side is also called  Keran,  93 kilometres   from Muzaffarabad. Keran  is  home to many beauties like streams, springs, river, mountains , dense forests including  walnut tress and to a variety of  Wildlife. 40 kms (approximately) towards west from District  headquarter Kupwara Keran wears a majestic view. To reach to the valley one has to Pass through the Firkiyan Gali   (Altitude 9634 ft ) . On the way to Keran  at Firkiyan top the 360 degree view of  surroundings is mesmerising and enchanting beauty produces  goosebumps. The wooden architecture and style of construction of the house  is still standing tall all across the Keran . These precious wooden  houses needs to be preserved and protected  and need to be promoted  as heritage  sites. Many wooden houses existing in Keran have been left behind by their owners who shifted to the Pakistan during the period of Partition and wars.

Any non-resident traveller, wishing to visit the border areas of Keran, Karnah, and Machil  have to obtain  permission  from District Magistrate Kupwara which is very easy as the interested person need not to visit  personally  any office but to have to get it through  online mode. A non-resident travel can access the portal at http://epass.kupwara.co.in. and register himself/herself. Along with few governments owned rest houses, there are home stay facilities available for the tourists. Camping tents are also available along with all basic facilities.

Teetwal and the LOC Bridge:  

Teetwal, a quaint little hamlet situated on the banks of the Kishanganga river near the Line of Control  has a long and rich history. Located in the Kupwara district  just at the distance of 14 kilometres from Tangdhar, the area was once a vibrant trade hub along the Silk Road. Traders would rest in Teetwal before crossing the Himalayas, bringing goods from Central Asia and China. In 1846, Teetwal came under the control of the Dogra dynasty. But when India gained independence from Britain in 1947, Teetwal found itself divided between India and Pakistan. This division severely damaged its economy and historical heritage. At the heart of Teetwal’s divided identity lies the iconic Teetwal crossing bridge. This bridge, originally constructed in 1931 by the British, spans the Kishanganga River. It served as a vital link between the two parts of the village, allowing for the movement of people, goods, and ideas.

However, since 2018, the Teetwal crossing bridge has remained closed due to increased tensions between India and Pakistan. The bridge, once a symbol of connection and unity, now stands as a stark reminder of the physical and emotional barriers that divide families and communities. The white colour  line drawn in the middle of the bridge acts as a line of control.  This bridge has emerged  as the  most attractive spot in Teetwal.  Armies of both the exchange sweets here on the occasion of festivals. Additionally, a temple has been rebuilt  at Teetwal, which in ancient times was serving as a base camp for pilgrims en route to the Sharda Peeth in POK. The area beyond the LoC bridge in Teetwal  is breath-taking, with snow-capped mountains and dense forests but unfortunately the  line of control cant allow you to go there.

The Kishanganga River, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and religious significance, is a fascinating subject of study. The river’s journey showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Kashmir region. Let us also strive to preserve and protect this valuable gift of nature for future generations. It is essential for both countries to work together to ensure the sustainable and equitable management of the Kishanganga River for the benefit of the people and the environment.     

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North Kashmir’s border tourism is more than just an industry—it’s a movement bringing life, hope, and opportunity to remote communities.

You see, not long ago, the idea of tourism flourishing along the border areas of North Kashmir was nothing more than a distant dream. For decades, places like Gurez, Keran, and Teetwal were known for their strategic importance rather than their scenic beauty. The stunning valleys, untouched rivers, and towering peaks existed in silence, far from the footfall of travelers. These were lands where stories of struggle outnumbered stories of prosperity, where the idea of tourism was overshadowed by security concerns. But that is no longer the case. Today, these very border areas have become beacons of success, proving that with resilience, vision, and the determination of the local communities, even the most unexpected places can transform into thriving tourism destinations. So, how did this happen? Let me take you through some remarkable stories that have rewritten the narrative of North Kashmir’s borders.

It all began with a handful of individuals who saw potential where others saw limitations. Take, for instance, Bashir Ahmad from Gurez. A shepherd for most of his life, Bashir had spent years wandering the high-altitude meadows with his livestock. He knew every trail, every hidden lake, and every ancient story tied to the land. When the government announced initiatives to boost border tourism, he saw an opportunity. Instead of migrating to Srinagar or Delhi in search of work, he turned his modest home into a homestay for travelers.

At first, the response was slow. Who would want to travel to Gurez, a place so remote that even phone signals struggled to reach? But then, something changed. Word began to spread—about the emerald-green Kishanganga River, the breathtaking Habba Khatoon peak, and the untouched landscapes that felt like a paradise frozen in time. Bashir’s homestay, with its traditional Kashmiri architecture and home-cooked meals, became a sought-after spot. Today, he is not only a successful entrepreneur but also an ambassador of his homeland, welcoming guests from across the country who come to experience the untouched beauty of Gurez.

Then there’s the story of young Zahid Ahmad from Keran. For most of his life, Keran had been a place people spoke of in hushed tones—remote, on the edge of the Line of Control, a place where families had been divided by history. But Zahid refused to let his village be known only for its past. With courage and a sense of purpose, he set up the first-ever restaurant in his village—a simple yet beautiful space on the banks of the Kishanganga, where travelers could sit, sip kehwa, and soak in the mesmerizing view of the river flowing between India and Pakistan.

At first, his idea was met with skepticism. “Who will come all the way here for a cup of tea?” the villagers asked. But he knew better. He wasn’t just offering tea and snacks; he was offering an experience. His restaurant became a cultural hub where travelers could listen to traditional Kashmiri & Pahari music, learn about the history of Keran, and watch the sun set over the river that had, for decades, been a silent spectator to the area’s history. Soon, what started as a small restaurant turned into a thriving business, inspiring others in his  village to take up similar ventures. Today, Zahid’s success has encouraged more young people to step into the tourism industry, changing lives one cup of kehwa at a time.

And then, there’s the grand success story of Teetwal. For years, it remained a forgotten land, its history buried under layers of conflict and neglect. But with the revival of the Sharda Peeth corridor, everything changed. Suddenly, Teetwal was no longer just another border village; it became a place of spiritual and historical significance. Pilgrims, historians, and travelers alike began visiting, eager to walk in the footsteps of those who had once called this place home. The locals, who had long felt invisible, found themselves at the heart of this transformation. Guesthouses were set up, local artisans started selling handcrafted souvenirs, and the old wooden bridges that once carried only memories now carried the footsteps of eager tourists.

The return of visitors brought not just economic prosperity but a sense of pride and recognition to the people of Teetwal. But the real magic of border tourism in North Kashmir lies not just in the landscapes or historical sites—it lies in the people. It lies in the young men who trained to become trekking guides, leading travelers through forgotten trails and secret valleys. It lies in the elderly women who turned their ancestral homes into guesthouses, offering visitors a taste of authentic Kashmiri life. It lies in the local entrepreneurs who set up adventure camps, handcrafted souvenir stalls, and small eateries serving wazwan by the riverbanks.

Today, the once-silent roads of North Kashmir hum with the voices of travelers, the laughter of children playing by the rivers, and the songs of local musicians who now perform for an audience wider than ever before. The fear that once kept people away has been replaced by curiosity and admiration. The valleys that once echoed only with the sound of distant gunfire now echo with the excited chatter of tourists marveling at the beauty of places they never knew existed. And the people? They are no longer just inhabitants of border villages; they are the pioneers of a new movement, proving that even in the most unexpected corners, tourism can thrive, communities can prosper, and history can be rewritten.

This is just the beginning. The borders may remain, but the barriers have faded. North Kashmir is no longer just a land of stories—it is a land of success, of tourism, of hope. And if you ever find yourself standing on the banks of the Kishanganga, watching the mountains bathed in golden light, you’ll understand why the world is finally looking at North Kashmir not as a boundary, but as a destination.

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With strong policies, growing investments, and a skilled workforce, India is well on its way to becoming an AI powerhouse. 

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it is shaping our present and defining our future. The recent AI Summit held in Paris was a testament to the growing global consensus on the need for responsible AI development. With India positioning itself as a key player in the AI revolution, the summit provided a stage to highlight the nation’s strategic progress and its commitment to ethical AI governance. The Paris AI Summit, hosted in early 2025, was a high-profile event that brought together government leaders, technology pioneers, and policy experts to discuss AI’s future. One of the most significant outcomes of the summit was the Joint Declaration on Inclusive and Sustainable AI, signed by 58 countries, including India. The declaration underscored the need for AI policies that prioritize ethical considerations, equitable access, and international collaboration. However, notable absentees from this commitment included the United States and the United Kingdom, citing concerns about potential regulatory constraints on innovation.

Parallel to the summit, India and France held their second AI Policy Roundtable, which focused on AI governance, cross-border partnerships, and responsible AI deployment. The discussions reinforced India’s proactive approach to AI policymaking, aligning with its broader vision of leveraging AI for national development while ensuring global cooperation. India’s dedication to AI advancement has been evident through its recent initiatives. The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) declared 2025 as the “Year of AI,” aiming to integrate AI education into the curriculum of thousands of colleges and impact nearly 40 million students. By fostering AI literacy at an academic level, India is ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the skills needed to drive AI innovation.

Economically, India is rapidly emerging as a formidable force in the AI sector. The country’s IT industry, valued at $250 billion, provides a strong foundation for AI-driven growth. Analysts predict that India’s AI services market could reach $17 billion by 2027, fueled by private-sector investments and government-backed initiatives. The IndiaAI Mission, a $1.25 billion program launched by the Indian government, aims to catalyze AI innovation across industries such as healthcare, agriculture, and education.Healthcare, in particular, stands to benefit immensely from AI-driven solutions. Apollo Hospitals, one of India’s leading healthcare providers, is ramping up investments in AI to alleviate the workload of medical professionals. The initiative is expected to free up two to three hours per day for doctors and nurses, allowing them to focus on patient care rather than administrative tasks.

Beyond industry advancements, India’s AI talent pool is growing at an unprecedented rate. Reports suggest that the country’s AI workforce will expand from 650,000 to 1.25 million by 2027. This surge in AI professionals is being driven by upskilling programs, university collaborations, and targeted government policies aimed at bridging the talent gap. Further solidifying its position in the global AI ecosystem, India launched the “AI for India 2030” initiative in partnership with the World Economic Forum. This long-term strategy is designed to integrate AI across various sectors while prioritizing ethical, inclusive, and sustainable AI development. By taking a balanced approach—embracing innovation while ensuring responsible deployment—India is emerging as a leader in AI-driven economic transformation.As the world grapples with the challenges and opportunities that AI presents, India’s commitment to a structured, ethical, and inclusive AI strategy sets a precedent for other nations to follow. The Paris AI Summit reinforced the importance of international cooperation in shaping AI policies, and India has demonstrated that it is not just participating in the global AI race but is actively contributing to its responsible evolution.

With strong policies, growing investments, and a skilled workforce, India is well on its way to becoming an AI powerhouse. As AI continues to reshape industries and economies, India’s approach—one that blends innovation with ethical considerations—offers a compelling model for the world.

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