Decades of militancy and violence have orphaned many children in the Kashmir valley. As part of a rehabilitation initiative, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on Sunday flagged off a group of orphaned Kashmiri girls on a study tour to Delhi and UP.
"This is going to widen the horizon these children. We are taking them on a study tour so that they can get exposure and interact with people from all over the country. The CRPF is doing this as it's our social responsibility," said P. K. Sinha, Inspector General of Jammu and Kashmir.
A group of 21 girls will be going on a tour to Agra to see the Taj Mahal and Mathura as well. They will also go to New Delhi and meet several eminent personalities.
"I' am really excited about the tour. It was my dream to see the mighty Taj Mahal. I'm glad that it is going to be fulfilled," said Ishrat, a girl who lost her wards to violence.
"My father lost his life to militancy. Initially, it was very scary for us to go out alone, but now since we have been on several tours organized by the CRPF, we feel quite confident. We have met people from all walks of life and it has helped us overcome the fear," said Nigeena, another girl who was left orphaned due to militancy.
The girls were also given free travel kits for the tour.
Many violence affected widows and their children have started their lives anew at the Rahat Ghar, run by the Guild of Service.
