Window to Gilgit-Baltistan

By Syed Shams Uddin In a thought-provoking Facebook post, Waseem Baigal recently showcased the transformative work of the Aga Khan Rural Support Program (AKRSP) in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. This post sheds light on AKRSP's significant efforts to address the chronic shortage of arable land in these mountainous regions, where agriculture has long been constrained by terrain, climate, and scarcity of suitable farmland. By introducing innovative techniques and sustainable practices, the AKRSP has empowered local communities to cultivate their land more efficiently, maximizing limited resources and supporting local food security. AKRSP’s initiatives date back to the 1980s when the organization began developing programs to modernize traditional farming in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. The regions’ remote location and challenging geography, nestled in the northern Himalayas and Karakoram ranges, had kept agricultural practices largely rudimentary and subsistence-focused. However, ...

By Syed Shams Uddin In the rich tapestry of Gilgit-Baltistan’s history, certain stories of bravery often remain in the shadows, yet these tales hold profound significance, symbolizing the indomitable spirit of the people. One such powerful narrative emerged recently, shedding light on the courage of an unsung heroine, Mujahida Sipar Begum, from Barmas—a locality near the Governor House in Gilgit. Her story is an emblem of defiance against oppression, courage in the face of adversity, and silent resilience that contributed to the historic overthrow of the Dogra regime in Gilgit. This poignant account, shared in Part 8 of Gilgit-Baltistan in the Eye of Historians, published on October 14, 2023, has rightfully drawn attention to her forgotten legacy, illuminating the sacrifices made by Sipar Begum and many like her during a tumultuous era. Sipar Begum’s life began in 1925 in Mohellah Barmas, where she grew up in a community defined by close bonds and traditional values. At just 16, she...

By Syed Shams Uddin UNDENIABLY, the gallant and unwavering struggle courageous individuals demands to be highlighted with due recognition, both regionally and nationally, through an enduring and monumental commemoration of their heroic deeds in the federal and provincial capitals. Such recognition would not only honor their extraordinary sacrifices but also inspire future generations to revere the legacy of their resilience and patriotism. In a poignant tribute to the unparalleled sacrifice made by Amir Hayat of the renowned Gilgit Scouts—the first martyr of the glorious Gilgit-Baltistan Freedom Struggle—esteemed journalist Manzar Shigri expressed deep sorrow in his article titled The First Martyr of the War of Liberation of Gilgit-Baltistan, published in Daily K2 on November 1, 2019. Shigri lamented the neglect of this iconic martyr’s final resting place, situated outside the Chinar Bagh in Gilgit - a neighborhood called Haiderpura, by the banks of the Gilgit River. What deepens the...

By Syed Shams Uddin A highly impactful and engaging discussion aired on the social media platform "Gilgit-Baltistan Nexus," Part I, on October 26, 2024, shedding light on the life and legacy of the legendary hero, Bakhtawar Shah. This broadcast serves as a poignant reminder of the recognition bestowed upon Bakhtawar Shah by none other than Colonel Hassan Khan, the Great Revolutionary Commander, who issued a high commendation certificate on December 10, 1947. This commendation was an acknowledgment of Bakhtawar Shah's invaluable acts of courage and extraordinary feats during the critical period of the region's history. The contents of the handwritten certificate, which is included as page 428 in Manzoom Ali's book Karakoram Hindukush, express a formal and authoritative recognition of Bakhtawar Shah's bravery. This discussion not only brings to the forefront the often-overlooked contributions of Bakhtawar Shah but also highlights the broader struggle for freed...