Yousmarg, July 13 (KNS) : In a heartwarming initiative aimed at promoting the well-being of senior citizens, particularly those from economically weaker sections, the Jammu & Kashmir RTI Movement and J&K Climate Action Group (JKCAG) organised a special picnic to the picturesque Yousmarg for around twenty elderly and middle-aged couples. The picnic was sponsored by the newly established Foodland Café & Restaurant, Chadoora.
According to a press relaese issued here, The excursion brought together nearly 40 participants, mostly elderly couples from the Chadoora area of Budgam district, offering many of them a rare opportunity to take a break from their daily routine and experience the scenic beauty of Yousmarg.
For several participants, the trip turned into a memorable milestone, as it was their first-ever visit to Yousmarg despite living just 20–25 kilometres away from the popular tourist destination. The initiative was first launched last year by Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, when around 22 couples were taken on a similar outing to the same location.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat said the objective of these picnics is to ensure that vulnerable and marginalised members of society also get the opportunity to enjoy recreational experiences that often remain beyond their reach due to financial constraints.
"The aim of these picnics is to ensure that vulnerable and marginalized members of the community enjoy recreational experiences often out of their reach due to financial constraints.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelWe are now planning similar one- or two-night outings for elderly couples who have never stayed in a lodge or hotel because of their weak economic background. The Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) is planning to sponsor our next event. TAAK President Farooq Kuthoo and Secretary General Sajad Kralyari, who were also present at Yousmarg, expressed their willingness to collaborate with us for future outings for senior citizen couples," Dr. Muzaffar said.
The event was coordinated by Shabir Musroof, a senior member of the J&K RTI Movement, along with Mohammad Younus Bhat. Several members of the RTI Movement and Climate Action Group also participated in the programme, alongside Nazir Ahmad, owner of Foodland Café & Restaurant, Chadoora.
Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat appreciated Nazir Ahmad for sponsoring and supporting the initiative, describing it as a meaningful contribution towards the welfare of senior citizens. He also expressed gratitude to Deputy Commissioner Budgam Athar Amir Khan and Assistant Director Fisheries Mushtaq Ahmad for extending logistical support that helped make the event a success.
The organisers said such initiatives not only provide recreation to elderly citizens but also promote dignity, inclusion and social well-being, while encouraging greater community participation in supporting vulnerable sections of society.(KNS)