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children with disabilities
are
oſten considered a burden on their families
and society. is problem is compounded in
rural areas or marginalized communities, and
more so in a conflict-ridden and geographically
difficult region like Kashmir. Chotay Taare
Foundation (CTF), however, takes a positive
and empowering approach to changing this
mindset. Realising quickly that simply assisting
children with multiple disabilities was only one
aspect of the solution, this remarkable NGO
evolved a comprehensive methodology that
aimed at holistic development and welfare of
these children, expanding its scope to include
child development, quality education, livelihood
support, skill development, and even a sports
component in its programme planning.
‘e foundation
’
s proactive approach
addressed the pressing needs of disabled
children, including enrollment, identification,
assessment, and rehabilitation. Operating
in a region where no aiding body existed,
the organization paved the way for change,
embodying the adage that the journey of a
thousand miles begins with a single step,’ says
Arjumand Makhdoomi, Founder of CTF.
Tailoring its programmes to the specific
needs of the communities it works with,
CTF offers institution-based, outreach, and
Enhancing mental health through activities in schools
Chotay Taray
Foundation
(CTF)
•
•
••
•
Founded by Arjumand Makhdoomi in 2000
Chotay Taray Foundation envisions
a world where everyone has an
equal opportunity to realize their
potential. It strives to transform the
lives of differently-abled children
and marginalized communities in
Kashmir. Through community-
centred initiatives and the support
of organizations like CRY, United
Nations Children’s Emergency
Fund and Give India, CTF works on
mental health, child development,
childcare, protection, livelihood,
skill development, and emergency
crisis relief among communities.
It has delivered 8,000 rehabilitation
services to specially-abled children,
and extended support to over 11000
children through quality education
initiatives.