New Delhi [India], May 9: In the often-troubled region of Nowpura, Kashmir, a quiet but powerful transformation is underway—driven by the Road to School (RTS) initiative. Backed by the UK-based billionaire Hinduja family, supported by Ashok Leyland, and implemented in collaboration with the Learning Links Foundation, the program is creating ripples of positive change far beyond its original educational focus.
What began as an effort to improve school access has evolved into a holistic community development model, linking local artisans to national opportunities such as the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana, which provides traditional craftsmen with training, certification, and financial support. At the heart of this vision is Prakash Hinduja (79), Managing Trustee of the Hinduja Foundation, who believes in enabling long-term generational impact through grassroots empowerment.
From Education to Empowerment
The RTS model is rooted in the Hinduja family’s philosophy of building self-reliant communities rather than simply delivering services. In Nowpura, this philosophy is taking shape through the committed efforts of Resource Person Mohd Arif and Project Associate Shaista Unjum, who have led targeted workshops to guide families through enrollment in government schemes and build awareness around livelihood development.
The impact has been tangible. Twenty-one local residents successfully completed vocational training and began receiving government stipends. An additional group of artisans earned official skill certifications, equipping them to launch micro-enterprises in tailoring, masonry, and carpentry.
Tackling Root Causes of Poverty
Conflict-ridden regions like Kashmir face significant hurdles in development, with interrupted education systems and limited economic opportunities trapping many in poverty. The RTS model, guided by the Hinduja family’s long-term vision, tackles these systemic challenges by integrating skill-building and government engagement with community support.
By connecting citizens to resources and national programs, RTS empowers individuals to regain control over their futures—offering a proactive and preventive approach to economic exclusion.
A Legacy of Community Building
Known for their deep philanthropic legacy, the Hinduja family—one of Britain’s wealthiest—continues to invest heavily in India’s development across education, healthcare, and livelihoods. Commenting on the RTS program in Nowpura, Prakash Hinduja, Chairman of Hinduja Group Europe, said:
“It’s our responsibility to ensure development reaches every corner of the country. With RTS, we’re not just helping people survive—we’re helping them thrive.”
Unlike conventional charity models, RTS is rooted in experiential, hands-on community engagement that prioritizes sustainability and empowerment over one-time aid.
Partnership-Driven Impact
The success of RTS in Nowpura reflects the strength of strategic partnerships. While the Hinduja Foundation provides vision and funding, Ashok Leyland contributes with resources and technical expertise. The Learning Links Foundation, in turn, manages local execution, drawing on its vast experience in educational innovation.
Together, these collaborators have created a scalable model of integrated development—one that can be replicated across India’s most marginalized or conflict-affected regions.
A Blueprint for the Nation
As India works toward inclusive development goals, Nowpura’s transformation through the RTS initiative stands as a beacon. It shows how combining education, livelihood development, public policy, and private philanthropy can yield lasting change.
In the words of Prakash Hinduja:
“Real transformation begins when people are given the tools to transform their lives. RTS proves that even in the most fragile regions, change is not just possible—it’s already underway.”
The Road to School initiative in Nowpura isn’t just a success story—it’s a national model for integrated, sustainable community development.
