In May 2025, the border district of Poonch in Jammu & Kashmir was starting to recover from a horrific tragedy. Following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people in early April, India launched Operation Sindoor. In that response came days of cross-border shelling in civilian areas. Homes were razed, schools damaged, and most tragically, 22 children lost one or both parents.
“I am really proud of you … I am sorry you lost friends … Just keep studying hard … you will find new friends.”
Rahul Gandhi
On May 24, Rahul Gandhi visited the families of the children who were affected. But it was not political. He visited classrooms, sat through lessons with students, and listened. At Christ Public School, he softly spoke to the classmates of twin siblings who were lost in the shelling.
Those words weren’t scripted. There were words from a human just trying to ease a child’s pain.
Rahul Gandhi Promises Education for 22 Young Lives
What was Rahul Gandhi’s visit? It was not only emotional, but it also led to real action. He said he was going to “adopt” all 22 orphaned children, not legally, but with lifelong support through education. He would cover their entire education, even to the end of college.
That includes everything from school supplies and exam fees to tuition. Furthermore, all the requirements to protect their own future. The initial payments had to be paid by July 30, at the start of their school year. Congress teams in J&K collaborated with local leaders to identify and verify the 22 students.
As per J&K Congress chief spokesman Ravindra Sharma. “Rahul will continue assistance to the orphaned children till completion of their graduation.” New Indian Express reports.
Many people were quietly appreciative of this gesture. Tariq Hamid Karra, a congress leader, stated that the children had lost their breadwinners from shelling. Former state Congress president V. Hanumantha Rao had called it a “great humanitarian gesture to the children”
In a period of political activity that was seen as cold and aloof, this act was human and thoughtful and happened at the moment of need.
What’s Next for the Children?
In the coming years, Rahul Gandhi will again sponsor their education through regular payments. Perhaps more children will be added as more affected children are found.
This isn’t about speeches or slogans. This is about hope, healing, and responsibility. And for these 22 children from Poonch, this could be just the support they need to walk forward.
