32-year-old Shah Faisal is the first IAS topper from the state
The new generation of Kashmir is brimming with hopes and aspirations. But with 60 per cent of the conflict-ridden state's population under 30 years of age, what do they do and who are their role models are the questions they face.
On one hand there is 21-year-old Burhan Wani who has become the face of terrorism in the Valley, on the other, is the young IAS officer Shah Faisal.
32-year-old Shah Faisal, first IAS topper from the state, is a product of the most turbulent times in the Valley. His father was gunned down by terrorists but today he is a role model for the youth of his state.
As director, School Education in Kashmir, Shah Faisal is on a mission to transform the face of education in his state.
The government school at Rajbagh in Srinagar, which was completely ravaged during the 2014 floods, today stands testimony to Shah Faisal's efforts and change that have come about in the attitude and aspirations of Kashmiri students.
21-year-old Burhan Wani who has become the face of terrorism in the Valley
"Terrorism won't serve purpose- gun is no solution - we have to improve ourselves," said a girl student.
Majority students at this school are opting for humanities over traditional medicine and engineering fields.
Civil Services is the new favourite in the Valley. In last five years more Kashmiris have joined the civil services than in the last five decades.
This year alone seven students from Kashmir cracked the prestigious exam.
"In Kashmir, what one does, everybody else tries to do the same, but Shah Faisal is our role model", said another girl.
The girls in the government schools have formed 'super 30 clubs', platforms for career planning and opening channels of communication for their developmental needs.
It's the achievers like Shah Faisal and cricketer Parvez Rasool who are their role models and answers to gun wielding local terrorists like Wani.
At a time when Kashmir is facing a crisis of educated young people are picking up gun to join the likes of Wani, these girls are beacons of hope. More and more of them want to stay back in their state and work for their people.
To connect with young population, the Army has also set up 60 Navjavan clubs across the Valley to provide platform for recreational activities and a free exchange of ideas.
"The nawjawan clubs are meant to create spaces for the local youth to learn and improve their skills," said Satish Dua, GOC 15 Corps.