For the girls belonging to the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities from remote, underdeveloped, and difficult-to-access areas of Jammu and Kashmir, the journey towards education has never been easy. Economic hardships, social barriers, accommodation issues, and the lack of educational facilities have often left the dreams of many talented students unfulfilled. In such circumstances, the Gujjar Bakerwal Girls PG Hostel Srinagar has emerged as a beacon of hope, a safe shelter, and a symbol of educational transformation. This institution is not merely a residential hostel; it has become the realization of thousands of dreams, a source of confidence for parents, and a guarantee of a brighter future for students.
Established in 2006, the hostel has been providing educational opportunities to girls from the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities for nearly two decades. However, in recent years, particularly under the supervision, dedication, vision, and administrative capabilities of Warden Ms. Naseema Bano and Assistant Warden Manzoor Ahmad Phamda, remarkable changes have been witnessed. Their leadership has significantly improved not only the administrative and educational systems of the hostel but also the overall performance, confidence, and academic achievements of the students.
It is a matter of great pride that the hostel residents recently achieved a 100 percent success rate in examinations, securing excellent marks and outstanding results. This achievement is not only the result of the students’ hard work but also a reflection of the continuous guidance, supervision, educational support, and commitment of the hostel administration toward the future of the students. Today, the hostel stands as a shining example of the fact that with proper guidance, a conducive environment, and dedicated leadership, girls from marginalized communities can reach the highest levels of success.
After assuming their responsibilities, Ms. Naseema Bano and Mr. Manzoor Ahmad Phamda took a keen interest in resolving administrative issues and addressing the hostel’s longstanding challenges. They actively pursued pending files and worked tirelessly to solve key issues affecting the institution. Their most significant and historic achievement has been the transfer of land for the hostel at Chattabal, Srinagar Central Shalteng. This issue had remained unresolved for nearly twenty years. Established in 2006, the Girls Hostel finally succeeded in securing the transfer of its land in 2026, marking a historic milestone.
The special intervention of the Minister for Tribal Affairs played a highly commendable role in this achievement. Likewise, Member of Parliament Ghulam Ali Khatana actively raised the issue and extended valuable support. In January this year, the Deputy Commissioner Srinagar issued orders for the transfer of the land, following which the Detailed Project Report (DPR) was submitted. This development will serve as a foundation for a brighter future for Gujjar and Bakerwal students and pave the way for further development and expansion of the hostel.
Ms. Naseema Bano’s efforts have not been limited to administrative reforms alone. She has also taken commendable initiatives to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of the students. The installation of CCTV cameras within the hostel was a significant step that enhanced student security, increased parental confidence, and made the hostel environment safer and more organized.
Similarly, the hostel kitchen was shifted from an unsuitable and deteriorated location to a more hygienic and well-equipped environment, ensuring the provision of clean, nutritious, and quality meals to the students. This initiative has proven highly beneficial for the students’ health and overall well-being. A healthy student is better equipped to excel academically, and this philosophy is clearly reflected in the administration’s efforts.
It is also encouraging that the Minister for Tribal Affairs personally visited the hostel, reviewed the issues faced by the students, and showed keen interest in resolving them. Similarly, the Director of Tribal Affairs Department inspected the site where the land has been transferred in order to expedite fencing and other developmental works. These efforts clearly demonstrate that the institution has become a focus of special attention from both the government and the administration.
The services of Assistant Warden Manzoor Ahmad Phamda also deserve special recognition. With dedication, sincerity, and hard work, he has played a vital role in improving the hostel’s administration and overall functioning. His active involvement in students’ academic activities, discipline, guidance, and daily affairs is highly appreciated. He is regarded as a mentor, guardian, and compassionate guide for the students. His tireless efforts have strengthened the educational atmosphere of the hostel while also fostering a positive moral and social environment.
The Gujjar Bakerwal Girls PG Hostel Srinagar is not limited to academics alone; it has also become an important center for cultural activities. Various cultural programs, events, and activities are regularly organized, with students participating enthusiastically. By showcasing Gujjar and Bakerwal culture, language, traditions, and heritage on different platforms, the students have effectively highlighted their unique identity. On many occasions, the hostel has proudly represented Gujjar and Bakerwal culture, bringing honor not only to the institution but also to the entire community.
Today, this institution has become the realization of the dreams of hundreds of students from far-flung mountainous regions who come to Srinagar in pursuit of quality education. Here they are provided with safe accommodation, a positive educational environment, moral guidance, discipline, and equal opportunities for growth. As a result, the students are not only achieving academic excellence but are also proving their capabilities in various fields of life.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that Warden Ms. Naseema Bano and Assistant Warden Mr. Manzoor Ahmad Phamda, through their dedication, integrity, and vision, have transformed the Gujjar Bakerwal Girls PG Hostel Srinagar into a model institution. Their services are a source of pride not only for the students but for the entire Gujjar and Bakerwal community. Under their leadership, the institution is expected to achieve even greater progress and continue fulfilling the dreams of thousands of young girls.
Education is the foundation of progress for any nation, and when girls from marginalized communities are empowered through education, the entire society moves forward on the path of development. The Gujjar Bakerwal Girls PG Hostel Srinagar is a beautiful example of this vision, hope, and success, and it will continue to serve as a guiding light for future generations.