To the entire Ismaili community, we extend our warmest wishes for a joyful Imamat Day. To celebrate this special occasion, we have created a short clip highlighting the contributions of Gilgit Baltistan’s Goodwill Movement – GBGM not only in the wider Jamat, but in the region of Gilgit Baltistan.
Audio : The.Ismaili
Dear Esteemed Professionals,
I trust this correspondence finds you in good health and high spirits.
My name is Ghulam Muhammad Baig, and I am currently enrolled as a student at Strathclyde University, Glasgow, pursuing a degree in Politics & International Relations. Concurrently, I am engaged in leading an NGO known as the Gilgit Baltistan’s Goodwill Movement, which is dedicated to serving the disabled communities of Gilgit Baltistan. Our operational headquarters are situated in Zulfiqarabad, Gilgit.
In essence, we are a non-profit organization committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. Our initiatives encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from empowering disabled individuals through various skill development programs to addressing their fundamental needs by providing sustenance, shelter, and clothing to the marginalized segments within the disabled community.
We began our work in June 2021 in GB, with support from GB senior doctors working within the NHS in the UK. Now, we are seeking additional support from other professionals within the UK and US from Gilgit Baltistan.
We understand that many of you send money home as remittances, but we kindly ask you to consider the challenges faced by disabled individuals in our country. Unfortunately many of them are excluded from assistance. We are seeking small donations, even if it is $5 or $10, because every penny counts towards helping these people
We hope that you will support us in our Ramadan Fundraiser, link below,
and help disabled persons in GB.
Thank you
Kind regards
Ghulam Baig
Gilgit Baltistan’s Goodwill Movement Celebrates International Disability Day with a Call to Action Gilgit Baltistan’s Goodwill Movement, December 4, 2023
– Today, the Goodwill Skill Development Centre in Gilgit Baltistan echoed with the spirit of empowerment and advocacy as officials from the Social Welfare Department, Government of GB, joined forces with Mr. Israr Uddin, Regional Coordinator of the Human Rights Commission, to commemorate International Disability Day. Serving as the esteemed Chief Guest, Mr. Israr Uddin brought focus and commitment to addressing the challenges faced by individuals living with disabilities.
Amidst an atmosphere of unity and purpose, representatives and disabled individuals presented a comprehensive charter of demands to the government.
The goodwill movement highlighted several critical issues, urging immediate attention and action: 1. Implementation of Quota and Business Rules: • Enforce the 3 percent quota for the employment of persons with disabilities. • Ensure strict adherence to the business rules outlined in the GB Disability Act of 2019. 2. Freeing Special Education Hostel: • Immediate release of the special education hostel currently occupied by NAB, enabling its intended use for persons with disabilities. 3. Establishment of Skill Development Centre: • Prompt establishment of a dedicated Skill Development Centre for persons with disabilities. • In case of delays, extend support to all Disabled Persons Organizations (DPOs) actively engaged in skill development initiatives in Gilgit Baltistan. 4. Regularization of Employment: • Regularize the employment status of all persons with disabilities engaged in various projects and contingencies in Gilgit Baltistan. 5. Upgrading Special Education Center: • Upgrade the existing Special Education Center from middle to high school level, expanding educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities. 6. Support for Special Education Schools: • Supply essential support and appoint necessary staff in Ghizer and Chilas Special Education Schools. • Ensure the functional status of the ready building for Special Education in Ghizer and address the non-functional aspect promptly. 7. Expansion of Special Education Schools: • Establish Special Education Schools in all districts of Gilgit Baltistan to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
The collective voice of the disability community resonates with a call for action from the government, seeking proactive measures to address these pressing concerns. Mr. Israr Uddin emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, stating, “It’s our collective responsibility to create an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of ability, has equal access to opportunities.” This International Disability Day marks a pivotal moment in Gilgit Baltistan, signaling a unified demand for change and progress towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
“When injustice becomes common, the world fades from sight. And when natural disasters such as floods strike, the injustice faced by persons with disabilities deepens even further. In times of crisis, they are the first to be forgotten — left without access to safe shelter, medical support, or rescue. While others may escape or rebuild, persons with disabilities often remain trapped behind invisible barriers, facing a double burden: the force of nature and the neglect of society. True justice is not only about rebuilding homes and roads after floods, but about rebuilding humanity itself — ensuring that disabled people are not left behind when the waters rise.”
It is often said, ‘To err is human.’ But is it really? When will we understand that the forces of nature will not tolerate the recklessness of humans? For the past 78 years, what have we done? We have transformed a once-beautiful valley into a landscape of vulnerability, ignoring the delicate balance that sustains life. The floods, the landslides, the devastation — all are reminders that nature’s patience is not endless, and our negligence comes at a cost that affects everyone, especially the most vulnerable among us.
The Goodwill Movement expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the Jenabai Board for their invaluable support in our women-based projects.
Thanks to their generous partnership, we have made remarkable progress in empowering women through comprehensive initiatives such as IT and tailoring training programs, designed to equip participants with practical skills that enhance their employability and promote economic independence.
A cornerstone of this collaboration has been the establishment and ongoing support of a hostel facility that provides safe and comfortable accommodation for both women and men from different parts of Gilgit Baltistan. Understanding the importance of a secure environment, the hostel is staffed with a 24/7 security guard, ensuring the safety and peace of mind of all residents.
This facility has become a vital resource, enabling participants to fully focus on their education and skill development without worrying about logistical or safety challenges. The Jenabai Board’s unwavering commitment has made a tangible difference, empowering many individuals to pursue their goals with confidence and dignity.
We sincerely appreciate their continued support and partnership and look forward to expanding our
The Goodwill Movement expresses its deepest gratitude to the Jenabai Board for their unwavering support and partnership in our women-based projects, which have become a beacon of hope and empowerment in Gilgit Baltistan.
Through their generous contribution and collaboration, we have been able to launch and sustain impactful programs such as our IT and tailoring training courses. These programs are thoughtfully designed to equip women with valuable skills that open doors to meaningful employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, fostering financial independence and boosting their confidence. The hands-on training combined with professional guidance has empowered many participants to become self-reliant and active contributors to their communities.
A vital part of this partnership is the establishment and maintenance of a hostel facility that serves as a safe haven and home away from home for both women and men coming from different parts of Gilgit Baltistan. Recognizing the challenges many face in accessing education and training due to distance and limited local resources, this hostel offers comfortable accommodation with all the necessary amenities to ensure residents can focus fully on their development.
Safety and security are paramount at the hostel. To this end, a 24/7 security guard is stationed on-site, providing continuous protection and peace of mind for all residents and their families. This commitment to safety ensures a secure environment where residents can thrive without concern for their well-being.
The Goodwill Movement is pleased to share that the Qurbani initiative has progressed in two structured phases. On Saturday, the designated day for Qurbani (yesterday), the sacrificial cutting was carried out in accordance with all religious and ethical guidelines.
Eid Mubarak to all supporters of Gilgit-Baltistan’s Goodwill Movement!
May Allah accept your sacrifices and bless you with joy, peace, and prosperity. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who have generously donated their Qurbani animals to GBGM. Your kindness will bring smiles to many faces.
Thank you for being part of GBGM’s mission to spread compassion and support those in need.
#eidmubarak#gbgm#Qurbani2025#SacrificeWithPurpose
Successful Completion of Humanitarian Outreach in Gojal
This marks a significant step forward for Gojal, representing one of the first comprehensive aid distributions of its kind in the area. By promoting self-reliance and restoring dignity, our mission is to uplift individuals often left behind in broader development efforts.
Regional Assessment: Accessibility and Road Infrastructure
Despite Gojal’s breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, the region continues to face substantial challenges in terms of accessibility. Many roads remain unpaved and are frequently blocked due to landslides or severe weather, particularly in the upper valleys. Reaching communities such as Passu, Hussaini, and Shimshal required extensive coordination and the dedication of local volunteers. These logistical hurdles further underscore the urgent need for long-term investment in infrastructure and regional connectivity.
Building Momentum Across Gilgit-Baltistan
This outreach in Gojal followed two earlier programs:
April 10, 2025 – Gahkuch, Punial, and Ishkoman: where we provided similar assistance to vulnerable groups.
April 12, 2025 – Yasin, Gupis, and Phandar: extending the same support in equally remote and infrastructure-poor areas.
Together, these three back-to-back initiatives represent a growing movement to promote social inclusion, address systemic inequities, and bring dignity and opportunity to those in hard-to-reach regions.
Appreciation for Our Partners and Supporters
We express our heartfelt gratitude to our donors, volunteers, and community partners. Your trust, generosity, and unwavering support are the foundation of these impactful efforts. Without you, none of this would be possible.
As we move forward, we remain steadfast in our mission to bring equity, accessibility, and hope to every corner of Gilgit-Baltistan. Plans are already underway for future initiatives to build on this momentum and reach even more communities in need.
We are pleased to announce the successful completion of our second humanitarian outreach program, which took place on April 12, 2025, in the remote and underserved regions of Yasin, Gupis, and Phandar in Gilgit-Baltistan. This initiative focused on providing wheelchairs to persons with disabilities and sewing machines to economically disadvantaged and widowed women, thereby enabling access to mobility and sustainable livelihoods.
This program marks a historic first for these areas, representing a significant step forward in the effort to support some of the most vulnerable members of society. By facilitating self-reliance and restoring dignity, we aim to uplift individuals who are often left behind in broader development efforts.
Despite the breathtaking natural beauty of Yasin, Gupis, and Phandar, the region continues to face significant logistical challenges due to poor road infrastructure and limited accessibility. Many of the roads remain unpaved, narrow, and prone to seasonal blockages caused by landslides and harsh weather conditions. These infrastructural barriers not only isolate communities but also hinder the timely delivery of aid and essential services. Reaching beneficiaries in these areas required careful coordination, time, and the resilience of our volunteers—underscoring the need for long-term investment in regional connectivity and transportation networks.
The success of this initiative follows our earlier program conducted on April 10, 2025, in Gahkuch, Punial, and Ishkoman, where similar distributions were made. These back-to-back programs are part of a broader strategy to expand social inclusion, address systemic inequities, and provide targeted assistance in hard-to-reach areas.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our donors, volunteers, and community partners whose generosity and dedication made these initiatives possible. Their unwavering support continues to be the foundation upon which such impactful programs are built.
As we move forward, we remain steadfast in our mission to promote equity, accessibility, and opportunity for all. Further initiatives are currently being planned to continue this momentum and reach additional communities in need.
The Gilgit Baltistan Goodwill Movement (GBGM) was pleased to announce that on April 10, 2025, it had the honour of welcoming a distinguished donor delegation from the United States of America in Gakuch, Region Ghizer. The delegation, comprising members of the Dhanani and Manji families, visited the region as part of their ongoing commitment to humanitarian causes and community development in Gilgit-Baltistan. This significant visit marked a milestone in GBGM’s efforts to foster international partnerships that support vulnerable communities, particularly persons with disabilities, through inclusive and impactful initiatives.
The purpose of the donor delegation to Gakuch was to enable these communities to have some investment in these accessibility tools. Over 30 wheelchairs and 100 Sewing Machines were distributed within the region, marking one of the first events in the area.
We, as an organisation, are thankful to the college administration for their support during this event.
During the visit, the delegation saw firsthand the high levels of poverty in the region. Many families could not afford basic mobility aids such as wheelchairs for their children with disabilities. In several cases, parents were seen carrying their children on their backs as they moved around, highlighting the urgent need for support, not only in terms of infrastructure, but also in essential health and mobility services for those most in need.
Caption – A CP Patient, with his Carer 24/7
We are proud to announce that we have successfully distributed around 100 sewing machines and wheelchairs to needy women, widows, and persons with disabilities in Ghizer. This initiative aims to empower marginalised communities and provide them with the tools and resources they need to lead independent and fulfilling lives. Our mission is to create a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most. We believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive and contribute to their community. Through our initiatives, we strive to promote inclusivity, equality, and social justice. Your support and contributions can help us reach more people and create a lasting impact. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community.
This Ramadan, Goodwill Movement has been working on plans towards a sustainable future for all. The upcoming articles would reflect that. However, just a thought—what can we as individuals learn about people with disabilities?
Breaking Barriers: Creating an Inclusive Society for People with Disabilities
In today’s world, inclusivity is more than just a buzzword—it is a necessity. As we strive to build a society where everyone has equal opportunities, it is essential to recognize and address the challenges faced by people with disabilities. The Gilgit Baltistan Goodwill Movement is committed to fostering awareness, support, and action to ensure that individuals with disabilities are empowered to live with dignity and independence.
Disability is not a singular experience; it encompasses a wide range of conditions, including physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental health disabilities. Every individual’s experience is unique, and recognizing this diversity is the first step toward creating an inclusive society.
One of the biggest misconceptions about disability is that it defines a person’s entire identity. In reality, people with disabilities have talents, ambitions, and contributions to make, just like everyone else. Instead of focusing on what they cannot do, we should celebrate their achievements and strengths.
More often than not, it is not the disability itself that limits individuals but the societal barriers that prevent full participation. Lack of accessible infrastructure, limited educational opportunities, and workplace discrimination create unnecessary obstacles. Removing these barriers through better policies, adaptive technologies, and public awareness can make a significant difference.
Words matter. Using respectful language—such as “person with a disability” rather than “disabled person” (unless preferred by the individual)—helps reinforce dignity and respect. Listening to people with disabilities and learning how they prefer to be identified ensures inclusivity in communication.
An inclusive society is beneficial for all. When we design workplaces, schools, and public spaces with accessibility in mind, we create a world that accommodates diverse needs. Accessibility is not just about compliance; it is about making sure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully.
The Gilgit Baltistan Goodwill Movement is committed to supporting individuals with disabilities by advocating for inclusive policies, providing resources, and raising awareness. Together, we can break down barriers and create a world where every person, regardless of ability, can thrive.
Join us in our mission to promote dignity, respect, and inclusivity for all!
The Imperative of Inclusion: Disability Rights and Social Integration
For years, the Gilgit Baltistan Goodwill Movement (GBGM) has remained neutral in explicitly advocating for disability rights. However, neutrality does not mean inaction. Too many have failed to prioritize the needs of disabled individuals, perpetuating a cycle of exclusion. Even immigrants, who have benefited from new opportunities abroad, have also failed to see beyond their struggles and advocate for those left behind. Inclusion is not simply a moral obligation; it is a fundamental human right and a necessary step toward a more equitable and prosperous society.
Historically, disability has often been viewed through a lens of charity rather than rights. This outdated perspective, reinforced by personal indifference and societal apathy, has led to attitudes that treat disabled individuals as burdens rather than equal participants in society. While some individuals offer charitable support, this alone does not address the systemic barriers preventing disabled individuals from fully participating in society. True inclusion requires a shift from passive sympathy to active engagement, ensuring that disabled individuals have equal opportunities in education, employment, healthcare, and public life.
Disabled individuals are not just recipients of assistance; they are valuable contributors to the economy and society. Yet, due to the unwillingness of many to recognize their potential, they are often denied opportunities to prove their worth. When provided with accessible infrastructure and inclusive policies, they can thrive in various professional fields. However, individuals—including employers, educators, and community members—continue to ignore this fact, choosing instead to exclude them from the workforce and social life. Even immigrants, despite having firsthand experience of overcoming barriers, have often failed to recognize the struggles of disabled individuals in their home communities and advocate for meaningful change. Those who choose not to engage in inclusive practices are not only denying disabled individuals their rights but are also weakening their own societies.
Disability rights are human rights, yet many individuals fail to acknowledge their personal responsibility in advocating for and supporting disabled individuals. In regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, a lack of personal commitment has contributed to inaccessible infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, and limited educational opportunities for disabled individuals. The failure to act is not due to a lack of resources but rather a lack of willingness to prioritize inclusion. Even those who have been exposed to more inclusive societies, such as members of the diaspora, frequently neglect to apply these principles in their own communities.
Every individual has the ability—and the responsibility—to create a more inclusive society. Ignoring disability rights is an active choice that contributes to continued exclusion. People must challenge their own biases, advocate for accessibility in their communities, and provide direct support where needed. Those who remain passive in the face of exclusion are complicit in maintaining an unjust status quo. GBGM, as a movement dedicated to goodwill and social welfare, has a role to play in encouraging individuals to take personal responsibility for advocating and acting in support of disability inclusion.
Achieving true disability inclusion requires financial support, and individual donations play a crucial role in ensuring that disabled people receive the services and opportunities they are entitled to.
These funds help provide essential services such as assistive technologies, accessible infrastructure, vocational training, and healthcare. Individuals who choose to contribute directly empower disabled individuals to lead dignified and independent lives. Philanthropy, when undertaken by individuals with a genuine commitment to change, can be a powerful force in addressing exclusion and creating a fairer society.
During Ramadan, your generosity can make a significant difference. Donate here to support disabled individuals and help drive meaningful change.
To move beyond rhetoric, individuals must take concrete actions to integrate disabled people into society. These steps include:
The inclusion of disabled individuals is not an optional act of goodwill but an essential aspect of a just and progressive society. Individuals have played a significant role in the continued marginalization of disabled people, and their inaction can no longer be tolerated. GBGM has the opportunity to encourage personal responsibility and integrate disability rights into its broader mission of social welfare. By embracing this shift, individuals can ensure that no member of society is left behind and take direct action to create a more inclusive and equitable future.
God’s System, Nature, and the Inclusion of Disabled People
Nature is a masterpiece of diversity. From the towering mountains to the tiniest grains of sand, from creatures that roam the earth to those that dwell in the deepest seas—everything in nature has a place and a purpose. In this grand system, there is no concept of exclusion; no being is seen as lesser. It is only human perception, shaped by arrogance and ignorance, that creates hierarchies where none exist.
Disability, like everything else in nature, is not an error—it is simply a variation, a different expression of life. Yet, human societies, rather than embracing this natural diversity, have created artificial barriers that exclude disabled individuals. This exclusion is not a reflection of religious texts—it is a distortion, a result of human-made oppression. Ableism, the belief that disabled individuals are inferior or less valuable, is not natural; it is a deception, a work of the Satan that seeks to divide and diminish the sacred unity of life.
If we observe nature, we see that it does not reject difference—it thrives on it. Forests grow stronger because of their diversity; ecosystems sustain themselves by balancing different elements. A tree with twisted branches still provides shade, a bird with a broken wing still sings, and a river that changes its course still nourishes the land. Nature adapts, embraces, and finds purpose in every form of life.
So why do humans struggle to do the same? Why do we build societies that exclude rather than accommodate?
It is because human beings, in their arrogance, have created false ideals—of perfection, strength, and independence—that do not exist in nature. We have been deceived into believing that productivity defines worth, that those who move differently, think differently, or experience the world differently are somehow “less.” This belief is not from God; it is a construct of human ego and a tool of oppression.
Just as every plant, animal, and element in nature plays a role, so do disabled people in society. Their presence challenges rigid systems, encourages innovation, and teaches the values of interdependence and compassion. The assumption that disabled individuals are weak or dependent ignores a fundamental truth—we are all interdependent. The strongest tree still relies on the soil, the mightiest lion still depends on its pride, and the most powerful human being is still dependent on the love and care of others.
To exclude disabled people is to go against the very laws of nature and the divine order. It is an act of arrogance that leads only to imbalance and injustice. A just society does not discard those who are different; it recognizes their place, values their contributions, and ensures that every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
If we truly wish to align ourselves with God’s system, we must unlearn the false ideas imposed by ableism. We must recognize that disability is not a deviation from nature—it is a part of it. Instead of creating barriers, we must create bridges. Instead of isolating, we must embrace. Instead of seeing disability as a limitation, we must see it as another way of existing, just as natural and valid as any other.
Nature does not reject difference. Neither does the deity of God. The question is: will we?
