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 Students struggled without online learning resources, farmers relied on outdated agricultural practices, and healthcare workers operated without the advantage of instant access to medical information.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.
Did you know that around 10-12% of children in India are estimated to have learning disabilities such as ADHD, dyslexia, or autism? Despite this significant number, many children with special needs in rural and remote areas are left without access to the support they require. The lack of resources, trained teachers, and awareness in these regions means that countless children struggle to keep up with traditional education.
But what if internet access could change all that? How could connecting schools in remote India to the digital world help bridge the gap and provide these children with the inclusive education they deserve? In this article, we explore how empowering schools with internet access can open new doors for children with special needs, offering them the tools and resources to thrive.
Understanding the Challenges Faced by Children with Special Needs in Remote India
1. Limited Awareness and Resources
In many rural areas of India, there is little understanding of learning disabilities like ADHD and dyslexia. Without proper training, teachers often struggle to identify and support students with special needs. This lack of awareness results in inadequate teaching methods and insufficient resources, making it difficult for these children to keep up with their peers.
2. Social Stigma and Isolation
Children with special needs in rural communities often face social stigma, leading to isolation and exclusion. This can be detrimental to their self-esteem and learning outcomes, as they may feel discouraged from participating in school activities.
3. Inaccessible Quality Education
Schools in remote India often lack specialized teaching materials and tools to support students with learning disabilities. This makes it difficult for children with special needs to receive a tailored education that caters to their individual learning styles.
How Internet Access Can Revolutionize Education for Children with Special Needs
1. Access to Tailored Learning Resources
Internet connectivity opens the door to a vast array of educational resources designed specifically for children with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, and other learning disabilities. Online platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, and BYJU’s offer interactive videos, educational games, and activities that cater to different learning styles. These resources can help make learning more engaging, allowing children with special needs to grasp concepts at their own pace.
2. Training for Teachers in Inclusive Education
With internet access, teachers in remote areas can participate in online training programs to learn about inclusive education strategies. Websites like Udemy and Coursera provide courses on how to teach children with special needs, helping educators develop skills to adapt their teaching methods. This training equips teachers with the knowledge to identify and address the challenges faced by children with learning disabilities, creating a more inclusive classroom environment
3. Personalized Learning Experience with Assistive Technology
The internet enables access to various assistive technologies, such as text-to-speech software, speech-to-text converters, and audio-visual learning aids. These tools can be incredibly beneficial for children with dyslexia, ADHD, or visual impairments. For instance, children with dyslexia can use text-to-speech tools to understand written material, making learning more accessible and enjoyable.
4. Building a Support Network for Parents and Teachers
The internet helps create a supportive online community for parents, teachers, and children with special needs. Platforms like Facebook Groups, Reddit, and dedicated forums enable parents and educators to share resources, experiences, and strategies for dealing with learning disabilities. This sense of community can be a lifeline for families in remote areas, helping them feel connected and supported.
5. Enhancing Individual Learning with Adaptive Learning Platforms
Adaptive learning platforms like EdX and Skillshare use AI to provide personalized educational content based on a child’s strengths and weaknesses. These platforms adjust the difficulty level of lessons, ensuring that children with special needs can learn at their own pace without feeling overwhelmed. This personalized approach helps boost confidence and encourages a love for learning.
Case Studies: Internet Access Transforming Education for Special Needs Children
Case Study 1: A School in Maharashtra Adopts Online Learning
A school in Maharashtra introduced internet access and partnered with online education platforms to support children with dyslexia. By using text-to-speech tools and interactive lessons, students with dyslexia showed a 60% improvement in reading comprehension within six months.
Case Study 2: An Inclusive Classroom in Tamil Nadu
A school in Tamil Nadu leveraged internet connectivity to train teachers in inclusive education practices. They implemented adaptive learning platforms and witnessed a significant increase in engagement among children with ADHD, leading to improved academic performance.
The Challenges of Implementing Internet Access in Remote Schools
1. Infrastructure and Connectivity Issues
While internet access can be transformative, remote areas in India often lack the infrastructure needed to support reliable connectivity. Government and private sector involvement are essential in bridging this gap and ensuring that all children, regardless of location, have access to online resources.
2. Digital Literacy and Training
Many teachers and parents in rural areas are not familiar with using technology, making it essential to provide digital literacy training. By equipping them with the necessary skills, they can effectively use online resources to support children with special needs.
Conclusion: A Vision for Inclusive Education in Remote India
Empowering schools in remote India with internet access can revolutionize education for children with special needs. By providing access to specialized resources, training teachers, and fostering supportive communities, we can create an inclusive learning environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive. The internet is not just a tool; it’s a pathway to equality, enabling children with special needs to reach their full potential.
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.
“I believe education empowers you to think in 360 degrees. And in today’s world, that empowerment is incomplete without the internet.”
In the far-flung village of Turtuk, perched on the India-Pakistan border, Dr. Abdul Hameed has become a pillar of education and a source of hope. He is not just the only PhD holder from this small village; he is a symbol of resilience and commitment to the betterment of his people.
Dr. Hameed teaches at the local higher secondary school in Turtuk, despite his many academic qualifications. His story is not one of self-promotion but of selflessness—choosing to return to his roots and give back to the place that raised him. “I was in the first batch of students to complete higher secondary here,” he recalls, noting the severe challenges they faced with a lack of resources, especially teachers. “My 11th grade year was wasted because no teacher was available to teach. I had to take re-admission, and later, I had to leave Turtuk for Jammu to continue my education.”
Yet, the difficulties didn’t end with his determination. The financial strain was overwhelming. “My father made only ₹3000 a month, and the expenses of staying in Jammu for studies were too high. I couldn’t make it work.” But Hameed persisted. He traveled across the country, eventually earning his PhD from Banaras Hindu University (BHU). His journey wasn’t just about personal achievement—it was about paving the way for the future generation of Turtuk.
The Internet: A Missing Lifeline in Turtuk
For Dr. Hameed, the struggle to access education in his youth is eerily mirrored in the experiences of his students today. The pandemic revealed a harsh truth—without internet access, children in Turtuk were falling behind. While most students across India adapted to online learning, Turtuk’s students were left stranded.
Dr. Hameed took matters into his own hands. He traveled to Delhi and pleaded for educational technology to be provided to his school’s 11th and 12th-grade students. “You can never predict unforeseen circumstances like the pandemic, but children shouldn’t suffer because of them,” he explains. His voice carries the weight of someone who has seen too much wasted potential due to circumstances beyond control.
Yet, it’s not just about overcoming the obstacles of a global health crisis. Dr. Hameed emphasizes that internet access is critical for students to stay competitive—not just regionally or nationally, but globally. “To learn any skill today, it’s important to have the internet. The world is moving forward, and if our children don’t have access, they’ll be left behind.”
The Bigger Battle: Cultural Challenges for Female Students
In Turtuk, the battle for education isn’t just about technology. Cultural norms present an additional layer of difficulty, especially for female students. “In Asian culture, girls are expected to help with household chores—carrying water, cooking, cleaning. By the time they’re done, they’re too tired to focus on their studies,” Dr. Hameed explains, his voice heavy with concern. These young women, who should be inspired to pursue their dreams, often lack role models and the encouragement they need to persevere in their education.
The internet, Dr. Hameed believes, could be a powerful tool for these girls, offering them exposure to ideas, stories, and opportunities beyond the limitations of their village. “They need to see that there’s a world out there where they can compete, where they can excel.”
The Internet: Tool or Distraction?
However, Dr. Hameed is not blind to the darker side of internet use. He frequently warns his students about the dangers of wasting time on social media, drawing a powerful analogy: “The internet is like a knife. You can use it as a tool, or it can become a weapon against you.”
It is his dream to spread awareness about using the internet wisely. He advocates for counseling sessions not just for students but for parents, urging them to understand their children’s unique needs and potentials. “Every child is different,” he often tells parents. “You can’t apply the same parenting style to each one.”
A Teacher’s Pride and a Vision for the Future
Like any dedicated educator, Dr. Hameed feels a deep sense of pride when his students succeed. But he is quick to point out that his role is as much about learning as it is about teaching. “I am constantly learning from my students,” he says with a smile.
His vision for Turtuk is clear—he wants to see the students compete on a global stage. And for that to happen, the village must have access to the internet. “Education isn’t just about acquiring knowledge. It’s about empowerment, about thinking critically and creatively. And in today’s world, the internet is a key part of that process.”
Change is inevitable, Dr. Hameed says, but Turtuk, like many other remote villages in Ladakh, lacks exposure. It’s not that people resist change; they simply haven’t seen what’s possible. For him, the internet represents that exposure—the window to a world of possibilities that his students have yet to fully grasp.
As the village’s only PhD holder, Dr. Abdul Hameed’s mission is far from over. He’s not just fighting for internet access; he’s fighting for the future of Turtuk, where every child can dream of competing not just with their neighbors, but with the world.
In 2024, the internet has become far more than a mere convenience—it is the gateway to knowledge, opportunity, and advancement. Yet, in the remote reaches of India, countless children are being raised in a digital vacuum, their classrooms disconnected from the vast global network that their urban counterparts navigate daily. This is not just a failure in technological infrastructure; it is a profound social crisis that threatens to widen the already deep chasm between the privileged and the marginalized.
Consider a school where the internet is a concept rather than a reality—where students are aware of the limitless resources available online, yet remain confined to outdated textbooks and narrow perspectives. In urban centers, children immerse themselves in virtual classrooms, accessing the latest information and global dialogues with a click. Meanwhile, in these isolated regions, students are left behind, their potential stifled by circumstances they cannot control. The tragedy lies not only in the absence of technology but in the futures that are being quietly extinguished, the aspirations that are being systematically suffocated.
The lack of internet access in these schools is more than a simple infrastructure gap—it is a deliberate denial of opportunity, a force that quietly perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. It robs an entire generation of their right to education, their right to compete, and their right to imagine a better future. As we explore the social repercussions of this exclusion, the real question emerges: How can a society hope to progress when so many of its children are left in the shadows? This is not merely a technological issue; it is a matter of justice, equality, and the fundamental right to a brighter future.
Children’s Education: A World of Missed Opportunities
For children in remote Indian schools, the absence of internet access translates into a world of missed educational opportunities. In urban areas, students have the luxury of supplementing their traditional education with online resources, e-learning tools, and virtual classrooms. They can access the latest information, engage with interactive content, and connect with peers and experts from around the world. However, their rural counterparts, constrained by outdated textbooks and limited resources, remain disconnected from this vast world of knowledge.
Without internet access, students in these remote areas miss out on the chance to explore a broader curriculum, access diverse learning materials, and engage in activities that could ignite their creativity and curiosity. The internet provides a platform for interactive learning, where students can watch educational videos, participate in global discussions, and even learn new skills through online courses. The lack of these opportunities not only puts them at a disadvantage academically but also limits their ability to develop critical thinking skills and adaptability—qualities that are essential in today’s fast-evolving world.
Teachers: Struggling to Stay Current and Effective
The challenges posed by the lack of internet access extend beyond the students to their teachers. In today’s educational landscape, continuous professional development is crucial for teachers to stay updated with the latest teaching methods, tools, and resources. The internet offers a wealth of opportunities for teachers to enhance their skills, whether through online training courses, webinars, or collaborative platforms where they can share ideas and best practices with their peers.
In remote Indian schools, however, teachers are often left isolated, unable to participate in these opportunities for professional growth. They lack access to online teaching resources that could help them bring more creativity and engagement into their classrooms. Furthermore, without internet access, teachers cannot easily stay informed about the latest educational trends or tailor their teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of their students.
The result is a growing disparity between the quality of education provided in urban and rural schools. While urban teachers benefit from continuous access to new ideas and methodologies, their rural counterparts struggle to keep pace, often relying on traditional and outdated teaching methods. This gap in teacher training and effectiveness directly impacts the students, who are deprived of the innovative and dynamic learning environments that could better prepare them for the future.
Administrative Challenges: Inefficiency and Inequality
The absence of internet access also has significant implications for the administrative side of education. School administrators in remote areas face numerous challenges in managing their institutions effectively. From maintaining records to communicating with education departments and managing resources, the lack of digital tools makes these tasks cumbersome and time-consuming.
In urban areas, digital platforms streamline administrative work, making it easier for schools to track student progress, manage finances, and ensure compliance with educational policies. However, in rural schools, administrators are often forced to rely on manual processes, which are not only inefficient but also prone to errors. This inefficiency can lead to delays in crucial areas such as the distribution of resources, implementation of educational programs, and even the timely disbursement of funds.
Moreover, the lack of connectivity means that rural schools are often left out of the loop when it comes to important announcements, policy updates, and new initiatives from education authorities. This further exacerbates the inequalities between urban and rural schools, as the latter struggle to stay informed and comply with the latest regulations and standards.
The Urgent Need for Connectivity
Addressing the lack of internet access in remote Indian schools is not just a matter of improving educational outcomes—it is a matter of equity and social justice. The digital divide is creating a two-tiered education system, where the opportunities available to students, teachers, and administrators are heavily influenced by geography. Without intervention, this divide will continue to widen, entrenching inequality and limiting the potential of millions of children.
To bridge this gap, a concerted effort is needed from all stakeholders, including government agencies, private companies, and local communities. Investments in digital infrastructure are crucial to ensure that even the most remote schools are connected to the internet. Public-private partnerships could play a key role in providing affordable internet access and equipping schools with the necessary digital tools.
For teachers, access to online training and resources could transform their ability to deliver high-quality education, even in challenging environments. For administrators, digital platforms could streamline their work, allowing them to focus more on improving educational outcomes rather than being bogged down by paperwork.
In 2024, the lack of internet access in remote Indian schools remains a significant hindrance to educational progress. It is a barrier that affects not just students, but also teachers and administrators, perpetuating a cycle of inequality that threatens the future of these communities. By taking decisive action to address this issue, we can ensure that every child, regardless of where they live, has the opportunity to benefit from the wealth of knowledge and resources available online. The time to bridge the digital divide is now—before it leaves a lasting scar on the fabric of Indian society.
“First, we used to think, what is this thing called internet? Now it is such an essential in life that I have to go to Turtuk from Thang every morning to get some kind of connectivity,” says Goba Ali.
In the shadow of the imposing Karakoram mountains, where the Shyok River carves its way through a rugged landscape, lies Thang, the last village on the Indian side of the India-Pakistan border. This remote hamlet, often forgotten by time and progress, is home to Goba Ali, a man whose life has been marked by separation, survival, and an unwavering hope for connection.
Thang’s isolation is more than just geographical; it’s a place where the digital age has yet to fully arrive, where the internet is a luxury rather than a given. For Goba Ali, a farmer, botanist and self-taught innovator, the quest for connectivity is not just about convenience but a bridge to a world beyond his village’s confines.
The story of Thang and Goba Ali unfolds like a thriller, with a journey that begins in a place steeped in history and sorrow. In 1971, when the Indian army captured Turtuk and three other villages from Pakistan during the Bangladesh Liberation War, the border moved, and with it, the lives of many, including Ali. Separated from his parents, he and his brother were left behind with their ailing grandfather in a land that was suddenly foreign yet familiar.
Ali’s childhood was shadowed by the pain of loss and the longing for reunion. For decades, he dreamt of seeing his parents again, a dream that came true in 2014 when he finally received a passport. Crossing the Line of Control into Pakistan, he was greeted by a stranger who embraced him with tears of joy. The stranger’s emotion stemmed from a shared history—Ali’s father who had served water to the Pakistani army, and it was this memory of him using borrowed binoculars to catch a glimpse of his sons across the border was still vivid in the stranger’s mind.
For ten months, Ali lived with his parents in Pakistan, cherishing the time they had lost. But the reunion was bittersweet. Before his return to India, his mother made a poignant request: to visit the border every Friday, dressed in white, and exchange glances through binoculars. This ritual, filled with hope and despair, continued for years until his mother’s passing. The grief of separation, it seemed, was too much for her to bear after the reunion. Ali’s father followed her soon after, leaving Ali with the heavy burden of guilt, believing he was the reason for their untimely demise.
Despite the sorrow, Ali never let his spirit falter. Back in Thang, he became a man of the land, tending to his fields and innovating eco-friendly products in Leh, Ladakh, a dry and arid region. He learned the value of hard work, honesty, and resilience—traits he attributes to his upbringing by the Indian army officers who raised him and his brother. These officers, who belonged to different faiths, provided not just shelter but lessons in discipline, ensuring that the boys were never defenseless against the world’s cruelties.
Ali’s life in Thang, however, remains a story of contrasts. While he works tirelessly to improve living standards in his village, his sons have chosen different paths, leaving him to carry on alone. Yet, he doesn’t complain; he sees his work as a duty, one that is guided by the hand of a higher power. “Everything is possible when he is looking out for you,” he says, reflecting on his life with a quiet sense of gratitude.
In the winter months, when the fields lie dormant, Ali travels to Delhi or Himachal Pradesh, seeking respite from the harsh Ladakhi climate. It’s during these times that he reconnects with the world outside, yet the lack of internet in Thang remains a constant thorn in his side.
After the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between India and China, there was a glimmer of hope. A prominent telecom company was set to connect the border towns, and a site near Ali’s home was deemed feasible for a network tower. But the dream was shattered when local complaints and political agendas derailed the project. The village, along with the tourists who visit, continues to struggle with connectivity, a vital link to the outside world that remains elusive.
Ali is not just a man of the land; he’s also a man of ideas, with a YouTube channel where he hopes to share his life and work. From vlogs about his agricultural practices to workshops on eco-friendly products, Ali’s channel is a window into a world that few get to see. However, the lack of reliable internet in Thang has made it challenging for him to upload content regularly. Having consistent connectivity would not only help him share his story with the world but also inspire others who face similar challenges.
As we continue our work, we aim to make this a possibility. We are committed to bringing the internet to Thang, ensuring that Ali and others like him can connect, share, and thrive in this digital age. The journey is far from over, but with perseverance and support, we believe that the last village of India can soon be a beacon of connection and hope.
