SRINAGAR, AUGUST 6: Ahata Waqar Chanapora – a day care and recreation center for senior citizens – on Wednesday honoured eminent academician and social activist Dr. Farooq Ahmad Peer, Former Secretary, BOSE, at an impressive function held here today.
Honoured personalities who constituted the presidium included Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone, former Secretary, General Department and Chairman, J&K PSC; Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone (IAS, Rtd.); Dr. Waseem Raja, JKAS, Joint Director Tourism, Kashmir; Former Chief Conservator of Forests Farooq Geelani; and acclaimed broadcaster, writer, and President, J&K Mahjoor Foundation, Peerzada Abdaal Mehjoor.
The interactive programme was attended by a large number of senior citizens from different walks of life, school students, writers, poets, and cultural activists. The speakers hailed the commitment and contribution of Dr. Farooq Peer towards educational reforms during his 18-year-long tenure in the Higher Education Department. His stint as a member of JKSSRB was also appreciated, during which about 4,000 educated youth were selected in a most transparent manner.
While sharing his lifelong journey and experiences, Dr. Farooq Peer, who is the father of Kashmir’s youngest IAS officer, Fazlul Haseeb Peer, underscored the need for social commitment, consistency, and hard work to achieve and enrich cherished goals in life. He said life, at times, feels tough while pursuing conviction and coping with adversity, but it has to be made a catalyst for growth and resilience. He stressed the need for learning Kashmiri, which is an optional subject for UPSC and PSC exams.
Farooq Ahmad Lone, in his inspiring presidential address, shared his experiences as a member of the administrative setup and urged the need for selfless service and a spirit of compassion to address chronic problems confronting society. “Mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion and some compassion,” Farooq Lone added.
Speaking on the occasion, Waseem Raja, while felicitating Dr. Farooq Peer, said that social interactions with experienced academicians and social activists not only enhance community cohesion but also raise awareness on pertinent issues and promote holistic well-being among senior citizens and vulnerable populations.
Peerzada Abdaal Mehjoor and Farooq Geelani also expressed their views, emphasizing the importance of community support and collaboration in advancing societal welfare initiatives. Their views marked a thought-provoking discourse on ways and means to cope in society. Waseem Raja described the journey of Dr. Farooq Peer as a role model.
Chairman, Ahata Waqar, Ab. Gani Paray welcomed the guests, whereas its organiser and former Director, Doordarshan, Shabir Mujahid, presented the vote of thanks. Secretary Er. Khazir Mohammad Trag and Qazi Ab. Rashid also spoke on the occasion.
On this occasion, the serene atmosphere of Ahata Waqar Chanapora was imbued with spirituality as the successful event commenced with a touching Tilawat of Quranic verses by Haji Gh. Hassan Shah and a soulful Naati Sharief by Javed Ahmad Baigh. Dr. Laila Sultana nicely moderated the event and ensured smooth proceedings and stimulating discussions among the participants.