Formed by passionate and socially conscious youth of Budgam, The Community Servants is not just a collective—it is a movement rooted in the belief that true change begins at the grassroots level. As a member of this initiative, I have witnessed first-hand how determination, empathy, and solidarity can breathe new life into our communities.

 Our Mission: Empowering Change 

Our mission is simple yet profound: to inspire and mobilize a new generation of youth leadership committed to building a more just, responsible, and progressive society. We envision a community where every citizen is aware of their role in nation-building and is empowered to participate actively in shaping a better tomorrow.

From promoting civic sense and environmental awareness to addressing public health, education, and social equity, our initiatives are as diverse as they are impactful. We take pride in standing up against pressing issues like substance abuse, exploitation, and infrastructural neglect—through peaceful, constructive, and hands-on action.

 A Recent Initiative: The Railway Road Cleanup Drive 

One of our most recent and significant efforts was a large-scale Cleanliness Drive along the 1.5 km stretch of the Railway Road, extending from the starting point to the railway gate. This road, long neglected and littered with debris, became a symbol of the larger challenges our society faces—of indifference, decay, and the silent spread of harmful practices.

Over the course of this drive, our volunteers collected nearly 1,000 empty alcohol bottles and discovered numerous drug injection syringes scattered along the roadside. These findings were more than just trash—they were warning signs of deeper social issues threatening the health and dignity of our youth and communities.

 Building a Culture of Accountability 

One of our core values is accountability—not just from those in power, but from every citizen. We believe that civic change cannot happen until people recognize their own role in maintaining their surroundings, raising their voices against injustice, and supporting those who are vulnerable. Our campaigns focus on instilling a sense of ownership in individuals—over public spaces, shared resources, and the social fabric that binds us together.

 Youth: The Heart of the Movement 

Our initiative thrives on the energy, creativity, and resilience of young people. We are not waiting for opportunities; we are creating them. Whether it’s organizing cleanliness drives, awareness rallies, tree-plantation campaigns, or helping schoolchildren with supplies and mentorship, The Community Servants channels the strength of youth into meaningful, real-world impact.

We believe that youth are not the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today. Every effort we make is a step toward empowering a generation that is bold enough to speak out, brave enough to act, and wise enough to lead with compassion.

 A Vision for the Future 

We dream of a Budgam—and a Kashmir—where streets are clean, schools are safe, justice is accessible, and every individual walks with dignity. We envision a society where citizens do not wait for others to act, but take initiative for their community’s well-being. Through partnerships with local organizations, collaborations with educators, and conversations with elders and policymakers, we aim to widen our reach and deepen our impact.

Our long-term goals include building sustainable systems for civic participation, creating community libraries and safe public spaces, and launching campaigns against environmental degradation and drug abuse.

In a world that often feels divided, we choose unity. In a society that sometimes feels indifferent, we choose care. And in a time that demands courage, we choose to act.

Let us be the light in the darkness—together.

Sahil Hyder Dar  (Member, The Community Servants)