In the classrooms of Kashmir, where the laughter of young children mixes with the quiet determination of teachers, there is another presence that often goes unnoticed—yet her contribution is indispensable. She is the AAYA. In the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) spaces of our Valley’s schools, the AAYA is the first to arrive and the last to leave, ensuring each classroom is safe, clean and emotionally nurturing for the youngest learners. Her work forms a silent foundation upon which the learning journey of thousands of Kashmiri children begins.
Despite this central role, AAYAs in Kashmir remain among the least acknowledged members of the school community. Their struggles are shaped not only by the structure of the education system but also by the unique social and cultural landscape of the region. Recognising their challenges is essential for strengthening our ECCE system and building a compassionate approach to early education.
In many government schools across Kashmir, AAYAs perform tasks far beyond what their modest honorarium reflects. They manage morning routines, assist teachers with preschool activities, comfort anxious children, maintain hygiene and safety, and often handle responsibilities that fall outside their defined role. Their emotional labour—so crucial in early childhood development—rarely receives appreciation. Instead, they frequently face role ambiguity, being pulled between cleaning duties, childcare, classroom support and administrative help.
Physical strain is a daily reality. Schools in rural and hilly areas demand long walks, harsh winter commutes, and constant physical activity inside classrooms with limited heating arrangements. Many AAYAs endure back pain, fatigue and health issues without medical support or formal training in handling emergencies. Communication gaps—stemming from limited education and hesitation—often prevent them from voicing their concerns to teachers or school leadership.
Outside school, their challenges take on a different shape. In Kashmiri society, where traditional gender roles remain strong, AAYAs often face social judgment and low status. Their work is sometimes dismissed as “household labour,” overshadowing the psychological sensitivity, patience and responsibility their job demands. After returning home, many continue another shift—cooking, cleaning and managing domestic chores—leaving them with little rest, little recognition and almost no emotional support.
Economic vulnerability adds to their burden. Most AAYAs come from financially weaker households and depend on their job for basic survival. With limited education and fewer opportunities, their fear of losing employment is constant. Many are unaware of government schemes, health benefits or legal protections available to them. Safety concerns, particularly during early morning travel in winter or remote areas, further complicate their daily struggles.
Kashmir’s unique socio-political environment, marked by periods of unrest, school closures and uncertain timings, increases their stress. When schools shut down suddenly, AAYAs lose essential income and stability. When they reopen, the workload doubles as hygiene protocols intensify. Yet they persist silently, carrying responsibilities far beyond their pay grade.
If Kashmir aims to strengthen its foundational learning ecosystem under NEP 2020, the role of AAYAs must be re-imagined. Schools should offer them clear job descriptions, professional training, respectful communication and meaningful participation in child-related discussions. Policymakers must consider fair wages, social security and opportunities for skill development. Community members and parents must recognise their dignity and treat them with respect.
An AAYA is not merely a helper; she is a co-educator, a caregiver and a guardian of early childhood spaces. Her presence offers warmth in cold classrooms, comfort in moments of distress and stability in a region that has seen its share of turmoil. She builds the emotional foundation on which our children step into the world.
To honour her is not only a matter of justice—it is an investment in the future of Kashmir itself.
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