By: Dar Azhar
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir – 21-07-2024
Kifayatullah Malik, a dedicated social worker from Lawaypora, Bandipora, was conferred with the prestigious Global Human Rights Award by the Global Human Rights Trust (GHRT) at a ceremony held at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, on 21-07-2024.
The Global Human Rights Award is presented annually by the GHRT to individuals who have made exceptional contributions in their respective fields and actively championed human rights causes.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Malik’s passion for social work began during his school days, fuelled by a desire to ensure no child faces the hardships he himself endured. His efforts commenced with collecting used books and distributing them to underprivileged students. Over time, his initiative snowballed, attracting a growing team of volunteers. Together, they raised funds to provide stationery supplies to countless students in need.
This year alone, Malik and his team has reached 312 students in Kashmir’s remote areas with essential stationery, and their goal for 2024 is to support 1,000 students with basic stationery supplies for a year.
Extending a Helping Hand
Malik’s endeavors extend far beyond education. He and his team actively distribute food kits to families facing food insecurity. During Eid 2024, they provided aid to approximately 175 families across five districts in kashmir.
Promoting Wellness and Adventure
Recognizing the challenges of drug addiction, Malik actively promotes alternative paths for youth. A professional mountaineer himself and the first advanced mountaineer from Bandipora, he encourages young people to embrace sports and adventure activities to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
A Record of Accolades
Kifayatullah’s impactful work spans various sectors, including environmental conservation, education, drug de-addiction, awareness campaigns, tourism promotion, and humanitarian aid. His dedication has garnered him numerous recognitions, including the prestigious NSS Presidential Award for Social Work and Community Welfare from the President of India for 2021-2022, making him the first recipient from the University of Kashmir to receive this honor.
Malik’s list of accolades also includes the Best Van Mitra Award for Plantation from the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Social Forestry, the Humanity Ambassador Award 2024, and the ADG’s Appreciation Awards 2019 and many other awards.
The Global Human Rights Award ceremony was a momentous occasion, recognizing Malik’s unwavering commitment to social upliftment and human rights in Jammu and Kashmir.