Baramulla, Oct 26: In the remote northern region of Kashmir, two villages that have long lived in darkness are finally illuminated ahead of Diwali, thanks to the Pune-based NGO, Aseem Foundation.
Residents of Sumali and Chautli villages in Baramulla district are thrilled about the installation of micro solar grids, especially with harsh winter months approaching.
These communities have frequently been without electricity, particularly during winter, when many residents rely on outdated models, as government electricity services have not reached them.
“Getting electricity in our villages, especially during winter, feels like a celebration,” said Samad, a local resident from Sumali. “For almost six months, we were cut off from government electricity because no service reaches here when it snows. All the electricity lines become inactive. Now, there is hope among us; we will finally be able to see our families in the light during the winter months, and we are grateful to Aseem Foundation for reaching out to us.”
Another local resident, Sidik, expressed joy about the upcoming Diwali. “This Diwali, our homes will finally be illuminated. It feels like a real celebration in our villages,” he said. “We’ve been deprived of a power supply since independence, but government efforts have failed to provide us with justice. We only see government electricity for about two months during peak summer, and then it’s gone. For almost 80% of the year, we are left without electricity.”
He added, “Thanks to the efforts of Aseem Foundation and the Army, we are filled with happiness at the inauguration of the solar grids.”
Saja Begum shared her excitement in an interview with media: “We are very happy with Aseem Foundation’s initiative. Now our homes will have light, making it easier for us to carry out daily tasks. More importantly, our children will be able to study during the winter months.”
Sarang Gosavi, President of Aseem Foundation, provided further details about this initiative, “We inaugurated micro solar grids for the villages of Sumali and Chautli in the BUNIYAR area on Saturday. These grids will power over 225 households, positively impacting the lives of more than 1,300 individuals.”
Mr. Gosavi emphasized that with Diwali approaching, this initiative represents hope, sustainability, and new beginnings. “The steady, reliable light from these solar grids will not only illuminate homes but also pave the way for improved education, livelihood opportunities, and a better quality of life.”
He added, “We at Aseem Foundation are excited about this transformative step and are grateful to everyone who contributed to making this dream a reality.”
