On a crisp morning in Turtuk, a village perched at the edge of India, we stumbled upon a group of children laughing by a brook. They were splashing water, their faces alight with mischief, as if untouched by the challenges of their remote home. Their laughter was infectious, but beneath it lay a story of challenges, perseverance, and dreams tethered to an unsteady educational foundation.
When we asked these young learners about school, their answers were candid and thought-provoking. One common thread emerged: consistency.
The Struggle for Stability
Turtuk’s schools rely heavily on volunteer teachers, which brings passion and diversity but also creates a significant hurdle—frequent teacher turnover. As educators come and go, students must adapt to new teaching styles, often within the same academic year. It’s like resetting their learning journey repeatedly, leaving gaps in their understanding and stability.
For these children, textbooks in Hindi—a language they’re still mastering—pose an additional challenge. With limited access to resources, the classroom often becomes the only place they can attempt to make sense of unfamiliar words and concepts. But what happens when they don’t understand something during the lesson? Who do they turn to when the teacher is no longer around?
A Bridge Called the Internet
In our conversation, their wish was simple yet profound: access to the internet. They didn’t dream of games or entertainment; they dreamed of learning. They saw the internet as a tool to revisit lessons, seek explanations in Hindi, and build a solid foundation for their studies.
“If we had the internet,” one child said shyly, “we could find videos that explain our lessons better. If we don’t understand what the teacher says, we can learn it again.”
For them, the internet represents consistency in a world of constant change. It’s a bridge to revisit forgotten lessons, a tutor to clarify confusion, and a mentor that doesn’t leave. With online access, they could learn at their own pace, returning to concepts until they feel confident.
Education Beyond Borders
Turtuk’s story is a reminder of the power of connectivity. For these children, the internet isn’t just a tool—it’s a lifeline to stable, consistent education. It’s a way to overcome the barriers of language and geography. It’s an opportunity to dream beyond the confines of a remote village.
Imagine a world where a child in Turtuk, after struggling to understand a chapter in a Hindi textbook, could watch an engaging video that breaks it down step by step. Imagine a teacher thousands of miles away inspiring a love for science in a classroom they’ve never set foot in. Imagine the collective dreams of Turtuk’s children taking flight, powered by the endless possibilities of online learning.
Bridging the Digital Divide
Turtuk’s children showed us something we often forget: the internet isn’t just about convenience—it’s about equity. Their desire for connectivity isn’t driven by frivolity but by a hunger to learn, to grow, and to keep pace with the rest of the world.
As we walked away from the brook that day, the kids waved, their laughter echoing in the mountain air. But their voices stayed with us, a poignant reminder of why we do what we do. Bridging the digital divide isn’t just about technology; it’s about giving children like those in Turtuk a fair chance to rewrite their futures.
Let’s work to make their dreams a reality. One connection at a time
“How do you dream big when you’re left behind in the race?”
This question lingers in the minds of schoolgirls like Tasneem and Sana, who live in the remote village of Turtuk, Ladakh. While their peers in cities access the world through the internet, these girls are tethered to outdated textbooks and limited classroom resources. Their dreams—becoming doctors, engineers, or teachers—are vivid, but the path to realizing them feels like navigating an uphill trail without a map.
Turtuk’s Unique Struggle
Turtuk, a village steeped in history and stunning landscapes, has a story of resilience. When Ladakh became independent and borders shifted, the region was left isolated in more ways than one. For its children, education became a slow and uneven journey.
Girls like Tasneem and Sana face a double burden: the challenge of limited resources and the added pressure of societal norms that sometimes undervalue their ambitions. With outdated textbooks and a lack of teachers for advanced subjects, they often find themselves struggling to keep up.
The Missing Link: The Internet
In a connected world, the internet could change everything for these girls. It’s not just about streaming videos or joining virtual classes—it’s about leveling the playing field.
Access to Current Knowledge: Reliable internet could provide up-to-date resources, giving these students the tools to understand and explore complex topics.
Personalized Learning: Online platforms could fill gaps left by the absence of specialized teachers, enabling girls to tackle subjects like physics or biology with confidence.
Global Perspectives: By connecting with peers and mentors worldwide, girls in Turtuk could feel part of a larger story—one that doesn’t leave their aspirations out of the picture.
Barriers in the Way
But dreams don’t come easy in Turtuk. Harsh winters, challenging terrain, and a lack of infrastructure make reliable internet a distant hope. Even where there is some connectivity, it’s often unstable and inaccessible for most families.
The Future They Deserve
Imagine a classroom in Turtuk where learning isn’t confined to faded textbooks. Picture Tasneem watching a science experiment online and finally understanding the concepts she’s struggled with. Envision Sana confidently preparing for competitive exams, armed with resources that were once beyond her reach.
For Turtuk’s schoolgirls, the internet isn’t a luxury—it’s a beacon of possibility. It’s their ticket to keeping pace with a fast-changing world, to dreaming big without feeling left behind.
So, how do you dream big when you’re left behind in the race? You connect the unconnected and give them the tools to run alongside the rest of the world. For Turtuk, this connection could rewrite futures—one child, one school, one household at a time.
What happens when a hospital has state-of-the-art facilities but no consistent internet connection? In the remote, breathtaking village of Turtuk, nestled on India’s northern borders, Dr. Javed from Srinagar and pharmacist Dr. Kareem Ahmed confront this reality every day. They are dedicated healthcare professionals working in a facility they proudly maintain as one of the finest in the region, yet they’re held back by a barrier that most of us take for granted—reliable internet.
In this post from our #PeopleWithoutInternet series, we share the story of these committed healthcare heroes, the unique challenges they face, and the lengths they go to provide quality care despite limited connectivity
A Modern Hospital, Limited by Connectivity
The healthcare center in Turtuk is a source of pride for Dr. Javed and Dr. Kareem. When our team visited, Dr. Javed guided us through the facility, showcasing state-of-the-art equipment and spotless facilities—a rare sight in a remote village. This small hospital is as modern as any urban healthcare facility, a testament to the dedication of the staff, who are determined to provide the best possible healthcare to Turtuk’s residents.
However, despite the hospital’s modern infrastructure, its connectivity remains a severe obstacle. Access to the internet in Turtuk is erratic at best, with doctors sometimes going up to a week without internet access. This lack of connectivity hinders their ability to upload essential documents to the government daily, a task that would be routine in any well-connected area. Moreover, without reliable internet, the hospital cannot access specialist advice on call, which is critical in emergencies, given Turtuk’s isolation and the lack of in-person specialists.
The Role of Internet in Remote Healthcare
For doctors like Dr. Javed and Dr. Kareem, internet access is not just a convenience; it’s essential for modern medical care. In an area where bringing specialists on-site is challenging, the internet bridges the gap by allowing remote consultations, enabling them to make informed decisions quickly. Whether it’s uploading patient records, coordinating with government health departments, or seeking specialist advice, internet access is crucial for running an efficient and effective healthcare center in Turtuk.
In fact, reliable internet connectivity could transform the healthcare landscape in remote villages like Turtuk, enhancing access to quality care and reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.
The Commitment of Turtuk’s Healthcare Team
What struck us most during our visit was the dedication of Dr. Javed and Dr. Kareem. Beyond their professional duties, they are deeply invested in the well-being of their community and are committed to making Turtuk’s healthcare center a beacon of excellence. Their hope is that one day, Turtuk will have the same level of connectivity and access to resources as any major city, enabling them to provide their patients with comprehensive, world-class care.
These healthcare heroes continue to serve with limited resources, working tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of Turtuk’s residents. They are living examples of resilience and commitment, embodying the spirit of healthcare service despite the challenges they face.
Why Connectivity is Key to the Future of Rural Healthcare
Stories like those of Dr. Javed and Dr. Kareem underscore the urgent need for reliable internet connectivity in remote regions. Without it, even the most well-equipped facilities are limited in their capacity to serve effectively. By bridging the digital divide, we can help healthcare workers like Dr. Javed and Dr. Kareem provide the care their communities deserve.
The #PeopleWithoutInternet series aims to highlight these stories, advocating for better connectivity in rural India, where it’s needed the most. When healthcare heroes like Dr. Javed and Dr. Kareem have access to reliable internet, they are empowered to bring life-changing improvements to their communities.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Javed, Dr. Kareem, and their team are committed to providing the best care possible, standing as pillars of hope for the people of Turtuk. Their story reminds us of the crucial role internet plays in healthcare and the importance of bridging the connectivity gap in rural India.
Stay tuned for more stories in our #PeopleWithoutInternet series as we continue to explore the lives of those who tirelessly work to serve their communities against all odds.
When Dr. Muktadil received his posting to Zanskar, his family’s worries weren’t quiet whispers—they were openly spoken concerns. The youngest in his family, raised in Kashmir, he had always drawn strength from his sister, the one who inspired his own journey into medicine. And though his family honored the Kashmiri tradition of nurturing at least one doctor in every household, they were uncertain about his decision to leave the familiarity of home for the unknown wilderness of Zanskar.
“I was determined,” he said, remembering the moment he set out. “But even I didn’t know what I was in for.”
The journey to Zanskar was a trial in itself, winding through sheer cliff faces, twisting roads, and unforgiving weather. The mountains seemed to loom higher with every mile, their silence an ominous welcome. By the time he arrived, even his resolve felt worn thin. And yet, the true test had only begun. Resident doctors who had come before him didn’t hold back their stories—accounts of endless winters, sub-zero nights, the quiet so profound it filled your bones. And the isolation was complete: without a reliable internet connection, Zanskar was a land as remote from the rest of the world as the stars above.
“I remember wondering if I’d made a mistake,” he confided. “There were nights I felt completely cut off. It’s a village that moves at its own pace. The mountains are always watching, and in some ways, they keep you… humbled.”
But Dr. Muktadil persisted. He learned to navigate the unpredictable weather, the narrow mountain trails, and the solitude. The community—simple, authentic, and without pretenses—gradually became his new family. He grew to understand their needs and their way of life, and he came to treasure their resilience.
Then, within a year’s time, something extraordinary happened. Connectivity arrived in Zanskar. The once silent village now hummed with the subtle power of the internet. A simple click could bridge the distance between Zanskar and his family in Kashmir, between a diagnosis here and a specialist’s opinion miles away.
“It was as though someone had opened a window, and suddenly I could see beyond the mountains,” he said, his eyes bright with the memory. Telemedicine consultations became a possibility, and he was able to access resources that once seemed out of reach. “It changed everything. Patients who might have had to travel hours, risking health and weather, could now get expert advice right here in the clinic.”
With the internet’s arrival, Zanskar’s remoteness softened. Not only did he have access to medical knowledge and resources, but he could finally reconnect with his family, sharing laughter and stories as if he’d never left. The homesickness that had haunted him at the beginning now seemed to fade into the background, and for the first time, Zanskar felt like home.
Yet there was more to this journey. The internet also connected Dr. Muktadil to something deeply personal. With it, he could reconnect to his roots, reaching back to memories of his own childhood in Kashmir. He shared stories of his community’s grit, of the strength woven into the fabric of his culture. “The portrayal of Kashmir in the media…it rarely captures the warmth, the pride, and the traditions that bind us together,” he shared. “Kids today in Kashmir are growing up with new dreams, ones that my parents’ generation couldn’t have imagined.”
He smiled, recalling his sister and the dreams she had instilled in him. It was her vision of a doctor’s life that had brought him to Zanskar. And now, it was this place—the stark, solitary beauty of it—that had taught him to be the kind of doctor he had always aspired to become.
And so, as Dr. Muktadil faces his next assignment, he finds himself reluctant to leave Zanskar, a place that had once filled him with dread. “Funny, isn’t it?” he chuckled softly. “Now, I can’t imagine not being here. This village, these mountains, and now…this connection to the world. It’s strange how home can find you in the most unexpected places.”
In Zanskar, the internet is more than just a tool; it’s a lifeline, a bridge, and perhaps most importantly, a way for dreams to cross borders. For Dr. Muktadil, it is the difference between feeling isolated and feeling a part of something far greater—a testament to how even in the remotest corners of the world, a simple connection can redefine not only a place but also a person’s heart.
What does it take to bring the internet to one of the most remote places on Earth? At 4,500 meters above sea level, Hanle in Ladakh is a secluded valley where connectivity has long been a distant dream. Surrounded by mountains and a vast, open sky, this remote area in India is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory and a small local community. Yet, against all odds and after months of relentless effort, our team at MUFT, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, has achieved the impossible—delivering internet connectivity to Hanle’s observatory and villages.
Into the Heart of Ladakh’s Wilderness
Our journey began at the base camp in Stok, Leh. After months of strategizing and preparing, we loaded the equipment, ready for the 4,500-meter ascent into Hanle.
Day 1 Fueled by a mix of anticipation and nerves, the team spent the first day in final preparations, strategizing every detail of the route ahead.
Day 2 The trek began in earnest. The drive through Ladakh’s vast, rugged landscape was awe-inspiring, with snow-capped peaks and miles of stark wilderness as far as the eye could see. This was no easy terrain, but the thrill of the mission and the collective determination kept us moving forward.
Our first attempt to establish a connection from the base station fell short. But in Hanle, failure wasn’t an option. We regrouped, recalibrated, and forged ahead.
The challenges in Hanle extend well beyond the road’s ruggedness. Without a stable electric grid, power shortages are common here. We relied on solar power, but even that isn’t dependable half the time, so we supplemented with diesel generators—a delicate balance, especially at these altitudes and temperatures.
Day 3 This was the breakthrough we had been waiting for. After extensive testing and troubleshooting, our link finally went live. We celebrated this milestone quietly but intensely—it was a collective victory. The observatory base camp was now connected for the first time.
Our next step took us to the defense personnel quarters. In collaboration with the army, we established internet connectivity for the signals division, enabling them to test the connection’s stability and speed.
Finally, we reached out to local families in the area, connecting a few homes with broadband access. It was a historic first for Hanle, bringing the promise of connection and opportunity to its residents.
Day 4 Temperatures plunged below freezing, yet the warmth of success radiated among the team. With the unwavering support from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, we began establishing connectivity around the observatory itself. Standing alongside these dedicated scientists was a privilege—they, too, are accustomed to working in extreme environments from Hanle to Antarctica, all in the pursuit of discovery.
A Historic First for Hanle
As we completed our work, the realization set in—Hanle was no longer isolated. The observatory and surrounding communities were connected to the world, a groundbreaking shift for this remote area. For MUFT, this project was more than just another milestone; it was a triumph over one of the most challenging terrains, and a promise fulfilled to a community that had waited for years.
In the coming months, our services will become commercially available to all of Hanle, transforming how its people connect and communicate with the rest of the world. Here, the stars will always shine brightly, but now, they’ll be joined by a new kind of light—a light of opportunity, learning, and connection.
On the road back from Hanle, Ladakh, our team encountered something extraordinary. In the remote beauty of Gompo village, we met a group of women who could only be described as the Ladakhi Clean Up Heroes. With no financial aid or government support, these women regularly gather in groups of five, each covering different stretches of land, to pick up trash left behind by tourists. Their efforts are a stark reminder of the increasing litter problem in Ladakh, driven largely by the influx of domestic travelers.
What stood out most was their sense of responsibility. Without complaints or demands for resources, one woman simply said, “This is our home. If we don’t take care of it, who will?”
The Growing Problem
Tourism has brought economic benefits to Ladakh, but it has also resulted in a surge of litter, particularly from domestic Indian travelers. Pristine landscapes are now blemished with plastic bottles, wrappers, and waste. As these women explained, the trash problem has escalated over the past few years, threatening the beauty of their homeland.
Amy Vanakan, a photographer from Colorado who documents disappearing cultures, joined us and shared her reflection on this: “Being a traveler is such a privilege, so please be respectful of other people’s homes.” Her words echo a sentiment we must all remember: travel is not just about experiencing new places but also about leaving them as we found them—or better.
Action Over Words
The Ladakhi Clean Up Heroes embody action. Their work, done without fanfare or outside assistance, is a powerful example of what real environmental stewardship looks like. Each group covers a stretch of five kilometers, and their dedication is a reminder that even the smallest efforts can create meaningful change.
Littering is not just an environmental issue—it’s a reflection of how we value the places we visit and the communities we impact. The responsibility to keep these places clean extends to everyone, young and old alike. Teaching this sense of accountability is crucial if we want to preserve not just Ladakh but every natural space for future generations.
Why It Matters
Littering shows a lack of respect for the environment and the people who live in these spaces. It’s easy to think that one discarded bottle won’t make a difference, but when millions of people think the same way, the damage becomes significant.
They remind us that protecting the environment doesn’t require grand gestures—just simple, consistent action. If these women, with no outside help, can make a difference, so can we.
As we left Gompo village, their message resonated deeply: “If we don’t take care of it, who will?” It’s a call to action for all of us, to be more mindful of our impact and to take responsibility, no matter where we are. Through our actions, we must educate the young and old alike on the importance of keeping our planet clean.
