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.
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
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.
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.
After years of struggle, the Government Primary School is now connected to the internet—an achievement that has breathed new life into the small school. For the teachers and students, this connection is not just about accessing digital resources; it’s about bridging the gap between their world and the vast possibilities beyond. It has ignited a sense of excitement, hope, and transformation that now pulses through every lesson and every day.
For years, the school faced challenges most urban institutions wouldn’t think twice about. One such challenge was marking student attendance. In a world that has embraced digital systems, the teachers in Stok were instructed by the government to submit attendance online. But there was a problem—there wasn’t any internet at the school. To comply, teachers were forced to leave the school grounds daily, laptop in hand, in search of a weak mobile hotspot signal just strong enough to mark attendance. It was an exhausting and inefficient process, one that stole precious time away from teaching and created unnecessary stress.
When we arrived in Stok for an initial survey, we knew that providing internet to this remote village wouldn’t be straightforward. Our team, specializing in connecting some of the most challenging areas in India, quickly realized that the landscape and lack of infrastructure would complicate the installation. At first, we considered installing the internet access point near a large Buddha statue in the village, but upon further inspection, that location proved unsuitable.
Undeterred, we brainstormed alternative solutions and eventually came up with an unconventional idea: installing the device on a tree. From this elevated position, we were able to run cables to the school building, securing a stable connection for the first time. It wasn’t an easy task—routing the cables through the village and ensuring the devices were secure in Ladakh’s harsh environment required precision and creativity. But once everything was in place, the results were transformative.
Now, the teachers at the Government Primary School in Stok can mark attendance from within the school itself, saving valuable time and energy. No more trekking around the village in search of a signal. But this improvement goes beyond the simple act of marking attendance. The government has long intended for schools like this one to introduce digital learning, and now, thanks to the internet connection, that goal is within reach. As soon as the school receives computers and other resources from the government, students will be able to participate in online lessons and access the same wealth of information available to students in more connected parts of the country.
For the teachers, the new internet connection is equally life-changing. Up until now, they had to complete government-mandated training sessions from home, as the school lacked the necessary infrastructure. With the new connection in place, teachers can now access online training materials and resources on-site, giving them the tools they need to improve their skills without leaving the school grounds.
The journey to connect the Government Primary School in Stok wasn’t without its obstacles. From assessing the terrain to securing the infrastructure, our team faced a series of technical and logistical challenges. But the reward—bringing a vital resource to a school that needed it desperately—made it all worthwhile.
This project highlights the importance of bringing digital access to even the most remote regions. With reliable internet now a reality, the Government Primary School in Stok is no longer limited by its location. Students and teachers alike can look forward to new opportunities for learning and development, and the groundwork has been laid for further digital progress in the village. The success of this connection is a reminder that with the right solutions, even the most challenging environments can be bridged to the digital world, bringing lasting benefits to education and the community.
