By: Moin Magrey
Dr. Simin Akhter Naqvi was a paradigm of revolution, exemplifying the courage and capacity to inspire transformative change in others.
As a faculty member in the Department of Economics at Dr. Zakir Hussain College, University of Delhi, since 2008, her unique approach to teaching was noteworthy.
Although her ancestors hailed from Naseerabad, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, India, Dr. Simin Akhter Naqvi was born, educated, and raised in Delhi.
Her family’s strong tradition of education and public service, with relatives occupying key positions in nation-building, had a profound impact on her worldview.
Notwithstanding her privileged background, Dr Naqvi remained committed to social justice, identifying with the struggles of marginalized communities and demonstrating remarkable empathy and compassion.
Her exceptional character and habits left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She harbored a deep concern for the difficulties faced by Jammu and Kashmir for over three decades, which led to a special bond with the region, especially Kashmir.
Her affection for Kashmir was always challenging to express succinctly.
She was also concerned about preserving the delicate environment and ecosystem of Kashmir, which supports lakhs of people due to its natural beauty and landscapes.
Therefore, she consistently stressed the need to maintain ecological cleanliness and preserve the region’s natural assets, including green valleys, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and other treasures, for future generations.
She consistently maintained and highlighted that employment opportunities in this area would be sustained and permanent, thanks to the safe environment, and she strongly emphasized the importance of preserving the environment at all costs.
This was the core concern of this great cause: ensuring sustainable employment, fostering tourism, and protecting the area from difficulties, suffering, and poverty.
Her genuine affection and sympathy for Kashmir were always evident.
Today, the Himalayan Welfare Organization (HWO) is the most important organization worldwide, championing environmental protection, health, education, development, and the welfare of marginalized communities, especially the poor.
As a founding member, Dr. Simin Akhter Naqvi made significant contributions to HWO’s growth, progress, and prosperity through her tireless efforts and expert guidance, which will forever be remembered and cherished.
The 2014 Kashmir floods, which resulted in unprecedented destruction and loss of life, saw Dr. Simin Akhter Naqvi standing shoulder-to-shoulder with us, providing unwavering support to our relief and rehabilitation efforts.
Her selfless contributions have been a constant source of inspiration, as she consistently stood by us during times of hardship and calamity in Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Naqvi’s commitment to education has been a game-changer, fostering awareness and growth in remote and underprivileged areas of the region.
Her association with the Himalayan Welfare Organization has enabled us to provide education to deprived societies and areas, transforming countless lives in the process.
As the mastermind behind our education movement, Dr. Simin Akhter Naqvi’s visionary guidance has been instrumental in shaping our initiatives now we frequently visited the ground and strived to implement diverse social work projects through our relentless work and dedication.
When the Himalayan Welfare Organization initiated the Himalayan Green Awards in 2018, the first award was bestowed upon Dr. Simin Akhter Naqvi for his outstanding work and performance in the education sector.
Dr. Simin Akhter Naqvi worked in conjunction with the Himalayan Welfare Organization, which functioned in education, health, and other sectors across Jammu and Kashmir and in underprivileged areas.
This work was incomparable and will be remembered by all.
The sudden demise of Dr. Simin Akhter Naqvi on October 21, 2024, has left us all in a state of shock and grief.
This irreparable loss is deeply felt by the Himalayan Welfare Organization-HWO J&K family, and we are struggling to come to terms with the void she has left behind. Dr. Naqvi’s remarkable contributions to our organization and her selfless service to our society are immeasurable, and we will always remember her fondly.
She was an outstanding scholar, educator, and social activist who worked tirelessly to promote the rights of the marginalized and oppressed.
Her legacy will continue to inspire us, and her memory will live on in our hearts.
The Himalayan Welfare Organization extends its sincerest condolences to the Naqvi family and prays for the deceased’s soul to rest in peace.
May Allah grant her a place of honor in Janat ul Firdous and provide her family with the strength and courage to bear this immense loss…Ameen
Moin Magrey holds the position of journalist and special correspondent for the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, providing content to the respected Kashmir Crown magazine and other prominent newspapers.
The writer is Secretary Himalayan Welfare Organization-HWO J&K
Email: moinmagray@gmail.com
