(Building Hope at the Grassroots Level)
Rayees Masroor
In the evolving social landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, where the need for grassroots intervention remains pressing, certain individuals rise above routine engagement and dedicate their lives to meaningful change. Among them, Dr. Mehjabeen Nabi stands out as a committed social activist whose work reflects both compassion and consistency. With over two decades of service, she has emerged as a strong voice for the marginalised, translating empathy into organised action through the establishment of Care Foundation and Charitable Trust in 2023.
From its inception, the foundation has not been merely an organisation but a reflection of her long-standing commitment to social welfare. Registered formally and structured with a clear mission, it seeks to address real issues faced by communities across Kashmir. Her vision is rooted in a simple but powerful belief — that every individual, regardless of circumstance, deserves dignity, honour, opportunity and hope.
Beyond her role as Founder and President of the foundation, she has actively contributed to several national and regional platforms. She serves as Vice President of Support NGO, Vice-President and Life Member of the prestigious Gandhi Global Family, and Senior Executive Council Member of Gayoor Foundation. Her association as Special Advisor to the J&K Media Association further highlights her engagement with wider social and public discourse. Notably, she has also served as Chairperson of the National Human Rights and Social Justice Council of India, reflecting her stature in the field of social advocacy.
The work carried out under Care Foundation and Charitable Trust spans multiple areas, each addressing a critical social need. The organisation has consistently supported underprivileged families through distribution drives, particularly during harsh winters and times of crisis. These efforts, while immediate in relief, are guided by a broader goal of restoring dignity and stability to vulnerable households.
Education forms another key pillar of the foundation’s work. Recognising its transformative power, Dr. Mehjabeen has emphasised awareness and support for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Her initiatives aim not just to assist but to encourage long-term educational engagement, ensuring that economic hardship does not deprive children of learning opportunities.
Healthcare outreach has also been a major focus. The organisation has conducted medical camps and facilitated access to treatment, particularly in areas where such facilities are not easily accessible. Blood donation drives and health awareness programmes further reflect its commitment to community well-being.
A defining feature of her work is the emphasis on inclusion and empowerment. Special attention has been given to persons with disabilities, women, and the youth. Events such as recreational programmes at Gulmarg for persons with disabilities, wheelchair cricket matches in Budgam, and awareness programmes on World Disability Day highlight a practical and inclusive approach to social work.
Her engagement with cultural and intellectual spaces adds another dimension to her contributions. From organising Mushairas and Na’at gatherings at Tagore Hall to participating in film festivals and interfaith conferences, she has actively promoted cultural harmony and literary expression. These initiatives underline a broader understanding of social development — one that includes cultural identity and community cohesion.
The achievements earned by her over the years reflect the scale and sincerity of her work. On Republic Day, January 26, 2026, she was awarded by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir for social reform and empowerment — an honour she truly deserves. She has been recognised with the Mahatma Gandhi Rashtriya Seva Puraskar, the Didi Nirmala Deshpande Shanti Doot Award, and the Women Excellence Award by the International Human Rights Organisation, among many others. Recognition from institutions such as UDAAN India Foundation, News18 Network, and the American University for Global Peace further underscores her growing national and international presence.
She has also been acknowledged for her contributions to literature, culture, and social awareness, receiving appreciation from platforms like Voice TV Urdu and being invited as guest speaker and chief guest at various prestigious events. These recognitions, however, appear to be milestones in a journey that remains firmly grounded in service rather than accolades.
What truly defines such a dedicated personality is not the list of awards or positions she holds, but the impact she has created at the grassroots level. Her leadership is marked by accessibility, empathy, and the ability to mobilise people toward a shared purpose. Through Care Foundation and Charitable Trust, she has built not just a network, but a community of individuals committed to making a difference.
In a region often defined by its challenges, her work offers a powerful counter-narrative — one of hope, resilience, and collective responsibility. It reminds us that meaningful change does not always come from large systems, but often from individuals who choose to act with sincerity and purpose.
As Care Foundation and Charitable Trust continues to expand its reach, the journey of Dr. Mehjabeen Nabi stands as an inspiring example of how vision, when backed by action, can transform lives and communities alike.
(Note: Rayees Masroor is an educationist and columnist based in north Kashmir. He writes extensively on educational, social and youth-related issues. He can be reached at rayeesmasroor111@gmail.com)
