Garima Slathia
Once known for its military legacy and loyalty to Dogra tradition, Gurha Slathia, a village in Vijaypur Tehsil of Samba, Jammu & Kashmir, is now redefining what rural development looks like in the 21st century. Once marred by drug abuse, youth detachment, and dwindling academic interest, the village today is a model of grassroots transformation—driven by its own people.
At the heart of this revival is the Guidance and Counselling Cell for Youth Development (GCC), a local NGO founded by Colonel Jaswant Singh Slathia and Veer Pratap Singh Slathia. Reflecting on the early days, Colonel Slathia recalls, “There was a time when our stadium was known more for drug peddling than sports. Schools were in disrepair. Every day there was news of thefts and drug arrests. It took five years of continuous effort to spark a shift.”
Their efforts began with youth counselling, English classes, and physical training—but it quickly grew. “We lacked financial support,” admits Veer Pratap, “but the village gave us strength. We just kept doing what was needed for the youth.”
That effort paid off. Neemami Slathia, now a national-level cricketer, remembers never having stepped on a field as a girl. “It all started when Roopali Ma’am, through the NGO, encouraged me. She handed me a bat and gave me belief. Today, I play for the nation—because someone saw potential in me.”
The village has since seen the rise of new sports infrastructure, coaching programs, and opportunities. “We’ve built a system,” says Sahil Slathia, a coach. “From better facilities to life skills, we’re developing athletes and responsible citizens.”
The academic landscape has evolved too. Swati Slathia, a girl from the village who recently cracked the JKAS exam, says she was inspired by GCC’s motivational sessions and the atmosphere at the Baba Hasal Dev Ji Library. “Those workshops taught me to dream beyond boundaries,” she says. “That positive environment shaped my path.”
At the leadership level, the village sarpanch, Jitendra Singh Slathia, echoes this pride: “GCC has transformed every area—education, culture, sports, identity. If I could give 200 marks out of 100, I would. I now give examples of my village when I speak elsewhere.”
Another active member, Uttkansh Slathia, highlights one of the most powerful changes: the fight against drugs. “It was hardest to convince families. But we’ve reduced drug cases by nearly 85% with consistent awareness and support.”
Even parents acknowledge the change. Kultar Singh, a proud father, says, “Earlier we had to send our children out for everything. Now, we have opportunities here—academics, sports, library, auditorium. Our children are staying focused, and we feel hopeful.”
Gurha Slathia is no longer just a fortified name from Dogra history. It’s a living testament to what can happen when communities take charge, and when belief replaces despair. From pride in the past to progress in the present—this village is truly rising.
