Imagine standing amidst the breathtaking serenity of the Himalayas—snow-capped peaks glistening in the sun, the crisp mountain air invigorating your spirit. Now, imagine this serenity marred by something entirely unnatural: discarded plastic bottles, wrappers, and waste, scattered across the pristine landscape. This is the stark reality in many mountainous regions today. But at Jhamtse Gatsal, a community and school nestled in the remote Himalayan village of Lumla, Arunachal Pradesh, something remarkable is taking shape.
A Vision Beyond Education
Jhamtse Gatsal, which means “Garden of Compassion” in Tibetan, is more than just a school—it is a thriving community built on the pillars of love, compassion, and sustainability. While the school provides its students with a robust academic foundation, it goes beyond conventional education by instilling a deep respect for the environment. In this idyllic yet vulnerable setting, the community faces a modern menace: plastic waste. The lack of proper waste disposal systems in the region has exacerbated the issue, making innovation and action not just desirable but necessary.
From Problem to Opportunity: Tackling Plastic Waste
The journey began with a simple yet profound question: What if the waste we produce could be repurposed into something valuable? The community at Jhamtse Gatsal embraced this challenge, transforming it into an opportunity to educate, innovate, and inspire. They established a plastic recycling initiative that integrates environmental consciousness into the daily lives of students and staff.
The initiative collects plastic waste from the school, surrounding villages, and even nearby government schools, where students are encouraged to gather plastic and bring it to Jhamtse Gatsal for recycling. This collaborative effort not only addresses the waste issue but also spreads awareness about the importance of recycling in preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
The Art of Repurposing: Creativity Meets Sustainability
What happens to the collected plastic? This is where Jhamtse Gatsal’s ingenuity shines. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors, students learn to transform plastic waste into usable and creative products. Old plastic bottles are turned into plant holders, wrappers become woven mats, and other discarded materials find new life as decorative or practical items.
For instance, students craft bricks from compressed plastic waste, which are then used in construction projects. These bricks are durable, cost-effective, and a testament to the potential of turning trash into treasure. By engaging students in this hands-on process, the school teaches them that even the smallest efforts can contribute to solving big problems.
Ripple Effects: A Community Transformed
The impact of Jhamtse Gatsal’s recycling practices extends far beyond the boundaries of its campus. Surrounding communities are increasingly inspired to adopt similar practices, reducing their reliance on single-use plastics and rethinking waste management. Government school children who once disposed of plastic waste indiscriminately now actively participate in collecting and repurposing it.
The students at Jhamtse Gatsal emerge not just as environmentally conscious individuals but as change-makers who carry the message of sustainability wherever they go. The initiative has become a blueprint for how education, community action, and environmental stewardship can coexist harmoniously.
A Lesson for the World
Jhamtse Gatsal’s efforts underscore a powerful lesson: environmental challenges, no matter how daunting, can be met with creativity, collaboration, and compassion. In turning waste into worth, this Himalayan community has shown that solutions to even the most pressing problems can emerge when people work together with purpose.
As we marvel at their success, let’s ask ourselves: What can we learn from Jhamtse Gatsal’s example? How can we, in our own lives, turn waste into worth and make the world a cleaner, greener place?
The answer, as Jhamtse Gatsal teaches us, lies in the transformative power of small, consistent actions. With a little innovation and a lot of heart, we can all become stewards of our planet.
“Can a remote school in the Himalayas, tucked away from modern conveniences, truly connect with the world?”
This question lingered as we received an email from Manjushree Vidyapith, a humble yet transformative school in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. Their challenge? Stable internet connectivity—a hurdle that restricted their operations, including maintaining contact with international donors who sustain much of their work.
Manjushree Vidyapith, a sanctuary for orphans, destitute, and physically challenged children, stands as a beacon of hope in one of India’s most remote regions. For over 25 years, the school has nurtured its students’ spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social growth. Despite limited resources, they’ve empowered children to become contributing members of society. Yet, their efforts were stymied by the absence of reliable internet, a necessity in today’s interconnected world.
Tawang, a remote district perched at over 10,000 feet, faces significant educational challenges. According to reports, Arunachal Pradesh has a literacy rate of 65.38%, well below the national average of 77.7%. Factors like difficult terrain, lack of infrastructure, and limited resources mean that many children in Tawang and similar regions have restricted access to quality education. The situation worsens when digital learning—now an integral part of modern education—remains out of reach for most schools.
The Journey to Connection
Our journey began in November 2020, traveling over 2,500 kilometers from Maharashtra to Tawang. The roads twisted through towering cliffs and icy passes, every turn emphasizing the isolation of this region. Upon reaching Manjushree, the scale of the challenge became clear.
The school, surrounded by the rugged Himalayas, had no mobile network, let alone internet connectivity. Even conducting our feasibility survey—a task requiring basic connectivity—proved difficult. We set up temporary shop in a small café in the town center, the only place with a faint internet signal.
Hours of work followed, testing, recalculating, and reimagining how to bring stable connectivity to the school. The task was daunting. In regions like these, conventional solutions like satellite internet are fraught with issues—frequent cloud cover disrupts signals, speeds are inconsistent, and maintenance is nearly impossible without local support teams.
Our plan was ambitious but grounded: a wireless network leveraging a fiber-optic-connected tower nearby. But wireless technology in such terrain comes with its own hurdles—it requires a clear line of sight between connection points. Identifying these points amidst snow-covered peaks and dense forests was like finding needles in a haystack.
Yet, after meticulous planning and countless cups of tea, we identified a potential link: a mountain peak offering a direct line of sight to the school. It was a small victory on a journey filled with uncertainty.
Making the Impossible Possible
Five months later, we returned with equipment in hand and hope in our hearts. Setting up the infrastructure tested every ounce of our determination. Hiking through steep trails, battling freezing temperatures, and troubleshooting technical challenges in real time—each step was a reminder of the sheer remoteness of Manjushree.
But finally, the connection came to life. The first test email sent from the school was a milestone that reverberated far beyond the walls of Manjushree Vidyapith.
The Transformative Impact
Connectivity has redefined what is possible for the Manjushree community:
Revolutionizing Education Students now have access to online educational tools, virtual classrooms, and resources that were previously beyond their reach. Concepts like coding, virtual experiments, and global collaborations have entered their curriculum, opening doors to opportunities that seemed unimaginable just a year ago.
Strengthening Donor Relations With stable internet, the school can communicate seamlessly with its international donors, ensuring continued financial and operational support. The transparency and ease of communication have strengthened these relationships, securing the school’s future.
Empowering Teachers and Administration Teachers now utilize digital teaching aids, enriching the learning experience. Administrative tasks, from student records to resource management, have become more efficient, allowing the staff to focus more on their mission.
Building Global Connections The internet has brought the world to Manjushree. Students watch documentaries, participate in global conversations, and dream bigger dreams. It’s not just connectivity; it’s a lifeline to hope and inspiration.
Beyond Technology: A Lesson in Humanity
This project wasn’t just about installing equipment; it was about bridging gaps—technological, geographical, and societal. Manjushree taught us that the challenges of remote connectivity are not just logistical but deeply human.
The school’s spirit of compassion and resilience left an indelible mark on us. Their dedication to nurturing children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds, despite limited resources, exemplifies the kind of determination that moves mountains—sometimes literally.
In turn, we were reminded of the profound responsibility we carry in our work. Internet connectivity is not a luxury; it is a fundamental enabler of equality and opportunity.
A Brighter Future
Today, Manjushree Vidyapith stands as a shining example of what’s possible when technology meets purpose. The school’s journey from isolation to integration is a testament to the power of collective effort and the transformative potential of connectivity.
As we reflect on this project, we’re not just proud of the technical success but deeply grateful for the human connections it fostered. The internet at Manjushree isn’t just a tool; it’s a bridge to a brighter, more inclusive future for every child who calls this school home.
The story of Manjushree Vidyapith is a reminder: No place is too remote, and no challenge is insurmountable when driven by the belief that every child deserves a chance to dream, connect, and thrive.
Women are leading a cultural shift in the undulating hills of Mizoram, where life moves at its own pace and the clouds dip low. heir contributions to the informal economy are the backbone of this state’s unique socio-economic fabric. In agriculture, bustling local markets, and small businesses, Mizoram’s women embody strength, resilience, and leadership. Their stories, though rooted in this northeastern state, offer lessons for informal economies across the globe.
Women as Pillars of Agriculture
Agriculture in Mizoram remains largely subsistence-based, and women are pivotal to this sector. They labor in jhum (slash-and-burn) cultivation, tending to crops like rice, ginger, and turmeric. Beyond the physical toil, they manage post-harvest activities, including storage and sale, ensuring food security for their families and communities.
Their role transcends economic activity; it preserves traditional agricultural knowledge and practices that are inextricably linked to Mizoram’s ecological balance. By intercropping, rotating crops, and maintaining soil fertility, these women exemplify how sustainable agriculture can thrive even in challenging terrains.
The Lifeblood of Local Markets
Walk through any bazaar in Mizoram, and the presence of women is unmistakable. They dominate the local markets, selling everything from fresh produce to handwoven textiles. These women are not just vendors; they are entrepreneurs who understand market demands, price fluctuations, and supply chains.
Their resilience is striking. Despite limited access to formal financial services, they manage to sustain and grow their businesses. They juggle roles as caregivers and breadwinners, seamlessly weaving the threads of home and commerce.
Small Businesses, Big Impact
Mizoram’s women are also venturing into small businesses, embracing traditional crafts like weaving, bamboo art, and food processing. These micro-enterprises often serve as a family’s primary income source.
Take, for instance, the handloom industry, where women artisans craft exquisite puan (traditional Mizo wraparounds). These textiles are not just garments; they are cultural artifacts that command respect across India. By marketing their products locally and digitally, women entrepreneurs are breathing new life into traditional crafts and connecting Mizoram’s heritage with the global market.
The Gender Dividend: Lessons from Mizoram
Mizoram’s informal economy holds several lessons for regions grappling with similar challenges:
Empowering through Collectives: Women in Mizoram often operate through cooperatives and informal collectives. These groups provide financial stability, shared knowledge, and negotiation power. For instance, weaving collectives have enabled women to access larger markets and negotiate fair prices. Scaling such models could empower informal workers globally.
Leveraging Local Knowledge: Women in Mizoram seamlessly blend tradition with innovation, such as by integrating organic farming techniques into jhum cultivation. Governments and NGOs can replicate this approach by supporting women-led initiatives that draw on indigenous practices.
Investing in Digital Tools: Digital inclusion has begun to make inroads in Mizoram, with women entrepreneurs using platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp to sell textiles and crafts. According to a 2022 report by the Internet and Mobile Association of India, rural internet penetration in the northeast remains at only 38%, leaving significant room for improvement. Expanding access to digital tools and training can help women scale their businesses beyond local markets.
Social Protection for Informal Workers: Globally, informal workers lack access to social security. Mizoram’s example highlights the importance of designing policies that cater to the dual burden women face as caregivers and breadwinners.
Breaking Barriers
While Mizoram’s women have made remarkable strides, structural barriers persist. A lack of formal credit access, gender disparities in land ownership, and limited exposure to national and global markets remain significant challenges. However, the resilience they demonstrate offers a blueprint for empowerment.
To unlock their full potential, governments and development organizations must prioritize:
Gender-sensitive financial products, such as low-interest loans for women in agriculture and trade.
Skill development programs that enhance digital literacy and entrepreneurial skills.
Infrastructure improvements, including roads and internet access, to bridge rural-urban divides.
A Global Perspective
The stories of Mizoram’s women resonate far beyond its borders. Their contributions highlight the untapped potential of informal economies worldwide, which the International Labour Organization estimates employ over 61% of the global workforce. By investing in the empowerment of women in informal sectors, nations can unlock economic growth, reduce poverty, and foster sustainable development.
A Closing Reflection
The women of Mizoram’s informal economy teach us that resilience is not born of privilege but of necessity. They adapt, innovate, and lead, often with limited resources and support. Their strength underscores a larger truth: economies thrive when women thrive.
By championing their stories and addressing the barriers they face, Mizoram—and the world—can move closer to a more inclusive and equitable economic future. In the words of a Mizo proverb, “It is the hand that rocks the cradle that rules the world.” Mizoram’s women are proving that, one market stall and handwoven thread at a time.
“Imagine a place where every phone call is a journey, where a single email means hours on the road. For the children and community of Jhamtse Gatsal, this was more than just inconvenience—it was isolation.”
High in the untouched foothills of the Himalayas, nestled in a valley that echoes with peace and resilience, lies Jhamtse Gatsal—a sanctuary aptly named the “Garden of Love and Compassion.” Here, the community has thrived on shared values of care, mindfulness, and self-sufficiency, but one essential lifeline remained out of reach: connection to the outside world. While the rest of us can instantly connect, learn, and reach across continents with a single click, the people of Jhamtse Gatsal have waited years to simply reach beyond their remote valley.
For the community and children, reliable internet wasn’t just a convenience—it was a dream barely within sight.
But in 2022, everything changed. Thanks to the tireless efforts of a small team and a series of innovative solutions, Jhamtse Gatsal was finally connected to the world. And it all started with a call for help.
Lobsang Phuntsok, a former Buddhist monk and the founder of Jhamtse Gatsal, had a vision—not only for the future of the children in his care but for the entire community that supported them. The idea was simple yet profound: to nurture the children as you would a garden, with love, compassion, and patience, so they could grow and flourish. But the challenge was clear. Without reliable internet access, how could the children, teachers, and community leaders access the knowledge and opportunities they so desperately needed?
A phone call one and a half years ago was the catalyst for change. The community reached out to us, explaining their dire situation. The nearest source of internet was far away, and even then, their connection was so weak that to make a single call or send an email, they had to walk miles or drive hours to reach the nearest spot with a stable signal. The idea of a simple, reliable internet connection seemed impossible, but this community’s need was undeniable.
Our team headed to Arunachal Pradesh to execute this life-changing project. The journey was long and the terrain difficult, but the drive to bring hope and connection to this isolated community kept him going. After overcoming geographical challenges and implementing creative solutions, the connection was finally live.
Now, the impact has been nothing short of transformational. Teachers can access the internet from their classrooms and even from their homes. This newfound connectivity enables them to conduct research, attend virtual meetings, and access telemedicine services—paving the way for better healthcare. Students, too, now have access to vast resources and can connect with the world beyond their valley. This shift is not just about the convenience of being online; it’s about changing the course of the future for these children, providing them with opportunities for learning and growth that would have been unimaginable before.
For Genla, the founder, it was a game changer. He shared with us how, when he traveled to Delhi years ago, the first thing he would do was download shows and movies to enjoy back at the community. And now, with stable internet, he can easily make WhatsApp or Zoom calls from anywhere on campus—something that once seemed impossible, yet now is part of his everyday reality.
This is not just about technology. It’s about what technology enables. It’s about creating a future where distance, geography, and lack of resources no longer stand in the way of dreams.
At Jhamtse Gatsal, the seeds of hope and possibility are being planted every day. With the internet now part of their lives, the community has a clearer path ahead. And as they continue to grow, the world will be watching, and supporting, as these tiny seeds blossom into something extraordinary.
The stillness of Mizoram’s green hills seems timeless, but beneath this serene exterior, a powerful shift is underway. A wave of digital connectivity is spreading, reaching even the most remote corners of this northeastern state. As India’s third most literate state, after Kerala and Lakshadweep, Mizoram has long been a beacon of educational success. But with reliable internet access finally making inroads into its rural landscapes, a new story begins—one where literacy is empowered by digital access, reshaping education, healthcare, and local economies in ways once thought impossible.
Education and Digital Literacy: A New Frontier
For Mizoram’s teachers and students, access to digital resources is like opening the doors to an endless library. Previously constrained by limited textbooks and learning materials, rural schools can now incorporate a wealth of information into their curriculum. Teachers can enhance lessons with the latest global resources, while students can dive into virtual learning environments that foster critical thinking and collaboration. In classrooms that once felt isolated, there’s now a connection to a larger, global world of knowledge.
Beyond traditional education, digital literacy training is also taking root. Initiatives to teach students and teachers essential digital skills are helping Mizoram build a tech-savvy generation prepared to participate in the broader digital economy. With skills in coding, digital research, and media literacy, young people are stepping into a future where they’re equipped to both consume and create in a digital landscape.
Transforming Remote Villages: Healthcare and Connectivity
The story of connectivity in Mizoram stretches far beyond the cities and towns, reaching into the most remote villages. In these areas, where the nearest healthcare facilities are often hours away, internet access has become a lifeline. Telemedicine platforms link rural clinics to urban hospitals, allowing doctors to provide critical consultations remotely. This new model of healthcare reduces travel time for patients, cuts costs, and, in emergencies, could even save lives.
For many villages, internet access also means improved public health education. Through digital platforms, residents can access information on disease prevention, hygiene, and nutrition, empowering communities to take a proactive role in their well-being. This digital lifeline is especially crucial in Mizoram, where hilly terrain and seasonal monsoons often isolate communities for weeks at a time.
Economic Empowerment: Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide
Digital connectivity is also transforming Mizoram’s economy. With internet access, local artisans, craftsmen, and small businesses are finding ways to sell their goods beyond the state’s borders, reaching customers across India and even internationally. The handmade textiles, traditional bamboo crafts, and intricate shawls that Mizoram is famous for can now be marketed online, providing artisans with direct access to buyers. This economic empowerment not only boosts individual income but strengthens entire communities, creating a ripple effect that fuels local economies.
For young entrepreneurs, connectivity means access to e-commerce platforms, digital payment systems, and online marketing tools. Small businesses that once relied on foot traffic and word-of-mouth are now harnessing social media to build loyal customer bases. Many are even attending virtual workshops to learn the latest in business skills, from financial management to brand building.
Preserving Culture in the Digital Era
In Mizoram, where rich traditions are woven deeply into daily life, internet access is playing a unique role in cultural preservation. Digital platforms allow Mizo communities to document and share their festivals, songs, and dances, reaching audiences far beyond the state’s borders. With social media and video-sharing sites, Mizos can showcase and preserve their heritage, while also inviting others to learn about their way of life.
At the same time, internet access makes it possible for younger generations to stay connected to their roots. From traditional cooking tutorials shared with Mizo diaspora to recorded oral histories of village elders, digital connectivity allows Mizoram’s cultural legacy to flourish in a new format, making it both accessible and timeless.
Overcoming Barriers: The Path Forward
The journey to digital connectivity in Mizoram has been filled with challenges. The state’s mountainous terrain complicates infrastructure development, and seasonal rains often disrupt connectivity. In many areas, electricity and reliable power sources are still limited, affecting consistent internet access. Yet, innovative solutions are emerging. Solar-powered internet hubs, satellite links, and partnerships with telecom providers are some ways that connectivity is expanding despite geographical and logistical hurdles.
Government initiatives and partnerships with local NGOs have also played a vital role. By investing in infrastructure and training programs, these efforts are helping ensure that digital access reaches every part of Mizoram. Continued support and innovation will be key to making sure that connectivity becomes a long-term reality for all.
A Vision Realized: Mizoram’s Digital Future
As this wave of connectivity spreads across Mizoram, the state’s future feels boundless. What began with literacy has now expanded into a movement where digital skills, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation intersect. The internet is not merely enhancing literacy; it’s amplifying Mizoram’s potential, transforming the way people learn, connect, and thrive. Just as literacy laid the foundation, connectivity is the spark that brings dreams to life, inspiring Mizos to imagine new possibilities and create lasting change.
The stillness of Mizoram’s hills may remain, but beneath that calm exterior lies a quiet hum of progress—a revolution in the making, where tradition and technology converge to shape a more connected, resilient Mizoram. And as more doors open, a new generation of digitally literate, globally connected Mizos steps forward, ready to make their mark on the world
In the summer of 2024, a remarkable transformation took place in a secluded corner of India. It wasn’t a grand bridge, a towering skyscraper, or even a paved road that changed the lives of hundreds; it was something invisible, something most of us take for granted—Wi-Fi. This is the story of how the people of Sangti Valley in Arunachal Pradesh crossed the digital divide, one connection at a time.
A Valley of Silence: Life Before Connectivity
Nestled among the Himalayan mountains, the Sangti Valley is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, lush green fields, and crystal-clear rivers. Yet, despite its natural beauty, Sangti Valley had one glaring absence: the internet. In a world that’s constantly buzzing with online activity, the residents of this valley lived in near-total isolation from the digital realm.
For years, communication meant traveling long distances, information was shared by word of mouth, and everyday tasks that required internet access were simply out of reach. Students struggled without online learning resources, farmers relied on outdated agricultural practices, and healthcare workers operated without the advantage of instant access to medical information. For the rest of us, it’s hard to imagine life without the internet, but for the people of Sangti Valley, this was their reality.
The Journey Begins: Connecting Sangti Valley
Our mission was simple yet daunting: establish a free Wi-Fi zone in a place where the word “internet” was still a distant concept for many. As we traveled deeper into the valley, the challenge became more apparent. The terrain was rugged, infrastructure almost non-existent, and the idea of setting up a stable internet connection seemed like a moonshot. But it was a shot worth taking.
The people of Sangti Valley welcomed us with open arms, curious about the strange equipment and cables we brought with us. We could see the hope and anticipation in their eyes, a hope that maybe, just maybe, this little project of ours could open a window to a world they had never experienced before.
Facing the Challenges: Overcoming the Digital Desert
The first hurdle we faced was the complete lack of infrastructure. The valley, isolated and untouched by modern technology, presented a tough challenge. Traditional methods like laying down cables or installing cell towers weren’t feasible in this terrain. But we were determined. Our team decided to install a hotspot right in the heart of the valley, offering unlimited internet access to see how the community would respond. It was a leap of faith, and we weren’t sure what to expect.
To our amazement, within days, over 1,000 unique users had accessed the service. Families gathered around with their smartphones, children’s eyes lit up as they watched videos and learned new things, and the elderly found joy in video calls with relatives living miles away. It was as if the valley had come alive, buzzing with the excitement of newfound connectivity.
Finding Balance: Managing the Unprecedented Demand
As the word spread, more and more people began logging on, and we quickly realized that unlimited access wasn’t sustainable in the long run. We needed a way to ensure that everyone could continue to benefit without overwhelming the system. That’s when we introduced a voucher-based model, granting each user an hour of internet access daily. This was more than just a management tactic; it was a way to teach the community about the value of connectivity, to encourage them to make the most out of every hour online.
The Impact: Stories from Sangti Valley
One of the most heartwarming moments was when an elderly man approached us one evening. He told us that for years, he had lost touch with his son, who worked in a distant city. But thanks to the free Wi-Fi, they were now speaking daily, sharing stories, laughter, and moments they had missed over the years. It’s stories like these that remind us why we took on this project in the first place.
It wasn’t just about providing internet; it was about giving this community a chance to be a part of a much bigger world.
What We Learned: A Blueprint for Future Connectivity Projects
Looking back, the Sangti Valley project taught us valuable lessons about bridging the digital divide. The key was not just in providing access but in understanding how people would use that access. We learned that connectivity isn’t just about the technology; it’s about building relationships, fostering curiosity, and creating opportunities.
We also realized that a sustainable model was crucial. The voucher system ensured fair access for everyone, making sure that this initiative would last and continue to serve the valley’s needs. It was about empowerment, not just giving away free internet.
The Road Ahead: Expanding the Vision
As we packed up our gear and left Sangti Valley, we couldn’t help but feel that this was just the beginning. There are countless other communities like Sangti, isolated from the digital world, waiting for their chance to connect. And we’re more determined than ever to bring the promise of free Wi-Fi zones to them.
Because in the end, this isn’t just about internet access. It’s about giving people a voice, a means to reach out, and a chance to be heard. It’s about empowering communities to tell their stories, connect with loved ones, and explore endless possibilities that come with being a part of a connected world.
And as we continue this journey, one region at a time, we know that every hotspot we set up is more than just technology – it’s a beacon of hope, lighting up lives, and bridging worlds that once seemed so far apart.
