SRINAGAR: The 23rd Annual Day commemoration on the theme “Social Service: Beacon of Hope” was held at Tagore Hall Srinagar, drawing attention to the imperative need for the foolproof protection of public institutions from unscrupulous elements.
Distinguished speakers emphasised the significance of skill-based education, utilising the expertise of learned senior citizens, and making comprehensive contributions to the welfare of vulnerable sections of society, including orphans, widows, and destitute individuals.
The event witnessed a significant gathering of volunteers, donors, well-wishers, students, and representatives from various voluntary organizations.
Dr Asgar Hassan Samoon, former Principal Secretary to the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address, he urged NGOs and voluntary organisations to ensure the proper utilisation of Zakat and other donations to avoid any consequences from Allah’s wrath and punishment.
Dr Samoon strongly advocated for skill-based education for underprivileged students, supported by the J&K Yateem Foundation and other humanitarian organizations, highlighting the numerous schemes launched by the UT and central governments for this purpose.
Muhammed Rafi, former Mission Director Department of Education Kashmir, who was the Guest of Honour, addressed the challenges faced by the social service sector, such as institutional failure, trust deficit, and a self-centric mindset. He called for intense debate and discussion to eradicate such practices and establish more credible social service platforms.
Dr Javaid Ahmad Khan, former Director of Sheep Husbandry Kashmir, stressed the importance of utilising the services and expertise of learned senior citizens, who constitute a significant portion of society. He identified various emerging challenges that demand urgent attention from social service organizations, going beyond the care of orphans, widows, and the destitute.
Bashir Ahmad Haji, Director Finance, University of Kashmir, called upon all members of society to contribute towards its welfare and betterment. He emphasized the collective responsibility in strengthening humanitarian causes.
Octogenarian Dr A.S. Bali, former Chief Scientist SKUAST Kashmir, urged people to increase the donation component by 10 percent annually, underscoring the need to sincerely work for earning God’s blessings.
Bashir Ahmad Mir, Chairman of Human Aid Society Baramulla, commended the JKYF (J&K Yateem Foundation) for its sincere, and pro-people humanitarian work. He praised the grassroots level volunteers of JKYF for their unwavering and selfless contributions during natural disasters like the 2005 Earthquake, 2014 Floods, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the event, the dignitaries released the Annual Report titled “EHSAAS.”
In his vote of thanks, Chairman JKYF Mohammad Rafiq Lone provided insights into the foundation’s activities and various welfare and rehabilitation programs. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the guest speakers, volunteers, well-wishers, students, and all participants for making the event a resounding success. He highlighted that JKYF had expended approximately ₹ 04 Crores among 4300 beneficiaries during the F.Y. 2022-23. Additionally, the Foundation assisted around 60K patients and their attendants under its Health Sector services.
The proceedings were conducted by Mohammad Amin Bhat, District Representative (DR) Pulwama, and Sajjad Sarmadi, Tehsil Representative Bhaderwah. The event served as a testament to the ongoing commitment towards uplifting the economically weaker sections of society and promoting social welfare.