KORT orphan care drew national attention during a recent visit by Federal Minister for Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan Affairs and SAFRON, and President PML-N Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Engineer Ameer Muqam. He toured the Kashmir Orphan Relief Trust (KORT) complex in Swabi and addressed a ceremony held in honor of orphaned children.
During the event, he praised the institution’s services. “Kashmir Orphan Relief Trust has provided facilities to orphaned children that they could never have imagined,” he said. “Today, this institution has become a seven-star welfare model.”
He also paid tribute to KORT Chairman Chaudhry Muhammad Akhtar. Moreover, he acknowledged the efforts of all donors. “Those who contributed to this noble cause deserve appreciation and respect for their invaluable services,” he added.
While sharing a personal experience, the Minister recalled helping a child injured in floods in Shangla. He noted that such acts of kindness bring spiritual satisfaction and inner peace.
Ameer Muqam emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir is Pakistan’s jugular vein. He recalled Quaid-e-Azam’s vision and said KORT’s association with the name “Kashmir” strengthens its mission and ideology.
He further stated that KORT’s services reminded him of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Daanish Schools. These schools provide quality education, food, and accommodation to orphaned and underprivileged children.
In conclusion, the Minister expressed hope that children studying at KORT would play a vital role in shaping Pakistan’s future.
Reflecting on the 2005 earthquake, which devastated five districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Kashmir, he said, “I personally witnessed the destruction. I also saw how the nation came together for relief and rehabilitation.” He added that the establishment of KORT after the earthquake became a source of hope for orphaned children. Starting from Mirpur, Azad Kashmir, the Trust has now expanded into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It has taken on the responsibility of caring for orphans.
Over the past two decades, KORT orphan care has provided food, shelter, and education. In addition, it has ensured mental, social, and spiritual development for children in need.
On the issue of Indian atrocities in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Ameer Muqam said the world now recognizes the importance of the Kashmir dispute. “Peace in the region is not possible without resolving the Kashmir issue,” he stated. “The only viable solution lies in dialogue and negotiations, not war.”
He stressed that under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan’s position has strengthened globally. Furthermore, he acknowledged the role of Pakistan’s armed forces. He said they consistently support the people during natural disasters and national challenges.
Calling for unity, Ameer Muqam urged collective efforts to ensure Pakistan’s progress, prosperity, and security. “If we work together for the betterment of our country,” he said, “the day is not far when Pakistan will achieve prosperity.”
Earlier, the Federal Minister received a warm welcome upon arrival. He toured various sections of the KORT complex. Chairman Chaudhry Akhtar briefed him on the institution’s facilities and ongoing services.
