What if your ability to learn, grow, and connect with the world was limited simply by where you were born? This was the reality for Tashi, a young boy from the breathtaking yet remote town of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Home to the second-largest monastery in Asia, Tawang is known for its serene beauty—but beneath its picturesque landscape lies a struggle for connectivity and access to opportunities.
Tashi’s journey is one of resilience, loss, and an unwavering commitment to digital transformation. His story is a testament to how challenges can be turned into stepping stones for meaningful change.
A Childhood Marked by Love and Loss
Tashi’s earliest memories are filled with the warmth of his father’s love. Every day, his father carried him on his back to school, weaving new stories along the way. These moments of closeness became the foundation of his childhood. However, life took an unexpected turn when he lost his father while still in the second grade. With this loss came new hardships, including the inability to continue at his private school. But fate had a new chapter waiting for him—one that led him to Manjushree Vidyapith, where he found not only an education but a nurturing community that felt like home.
The Manjushree Experience: More Than Just Academics
Manjushree Vidyapith was more than just a school; it was a sanctuary that instilled values of kindness, resilience, and gratitude in its students. Many of the children there came from similar backgrounds, creating an unspoken understanding and support system among them. Every morning, students engaged in prayers, meditation, and gratitude practices—rituals that nurtured emotional well-being and provided a sense of stability. In today’s fast-paced, anxiety-ridden world, these early teachings remain invaluable, shaping students into compassionate and grounded individuals.
A Life-Changing Encounter with the Internet
Tashi’s first encounter with the internet in 2009, when he was in grade six, was a moment of collective wonder. Before then, students had only read about it in books, never truly grasping its potential. When they finally accessed it, curiosity turned into awe. The internet became an instant gateway to the world beyond Tawang. It revolutionized the way they communicated with donors and well-wishers. Until then, they had relied on letters that took weeks to reach their destinations. With the internet, they could finally share their thoughts and gratitude in real time, breaking down the barriers of remoteness.
The Digital Divide in Tawang
However, while the internet brought newfound possibilities, it also highlighted the stark digital divide in Tawang. The region’s geographical isolation meant that connectivity remained inconsistent, making access to digital resources a privilege rather than a norm. This challenge became even more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic, when education and work moved online. Many students and professionals struggled to stay connected, with some having to walk miles just to charge their phones or find a stable network. Others were completely cut off, missing out on vital opportunities.
Bridging the Gap: Tashi’s Mission
Determined to change this reality, Tashi embarked on a mission to bring reliable digital connectivity to Tawang. Alongside his team, he implemented innovative solutions like solar-powered internet setups to ensure stable connections in the most remote corners. The task was not easy—difficult terrain, lack of infrastructure, and erratic power supply made the work even more challenging. Yet, with persistence, they found ways to overcome these hurdles. Each milestone achieved was not just a technical victory but a transformative moment for the community. Improved connectivity meant better education, smoother business operations, and a stronger local economy.
Tourists, who once hesitated to stay longer due to connectivity issues, now found it easier to remain, providing a boost to local businesses. More importantly, students no longer had to walk miles just to attend online classes or complete assignments. The impact of this work has been deeply rewarding, reaffirming Tashi’s belief that technology can be a bridge to equal opportunities.
A Message for Future Generations
Tashi believes that curiosity is the key to lifelong learning. He encourages students, especially those from Manjushree Vidyapith, to ask questions and seek knowledge beyond textbooks. In an era where time moves fast, he emphasizes the importance of learning new skills beyond academics. The internet, when used wisely, can be a powerful tool for growth and success. Most importantly, he urges young minds never to shy away from dreaming big, regardless of their background.
His journey from a young boy in Tawang to a digital changemaker serves as an inspiration to many. It is proof that no matter how remote a place may be, with determination, innovation, and a spirit of service, it can be connected to the world. Tashi’s work continues to inspire, reminding us all that even the most challenging terrains can become pathways to progress.
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
