“It will take time for children to recover from the trauma”

The population of the Jammu and Kashmir region, located on the border between India and Pakistan, was recently struck by devastating military violence. Many on both sides of the frontline were killed, injured, or fled for their lives. Among them were the most vulnerable in a crisis situation: children and young people with disabilities. Together with our partners in the region, we are taking action on their behalf.

Although the shelling has ceased for now, the effects of the violence remain deeply felt by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Since the Liliane Foundation was active until recently in the Indian-administered part of this region, we have a clear picture of the situation through our local contacts. However, we have no information regarding the situation on the Pakistani side, nor do we have the means to provide support there.

Immediate support

Our partner in North India reported that the displaced population urgently requires immediate assistance and basic necessities such as food, hygiene products, and medication. The Indian government has pledged aid, but this has been slow to arrive.

The local development organisation She Hope Society is taking immediate action and, in cooperation with our partner Jan Vikas Samiti, is organising the distribution of emergency relief packages to 600 affected families. The Liliane Foundation is supporting this relief effort with a financial contribution.

The packages contain essential items urgently needed by the severely affected population, such as rice, oil, pulses and grains, milk, soap, and sanitary pads. These will help families through the initial period until government assistance is provided.

Impact on the population

Syed Fayaz Achmad, a staff member of She Hope Society, speaks about the enormous impact of the violence on the local population.

“The violence has had a devastating impact on communities in the region, particularly in the Kashmir Valley. It has led to large-scale displacement, economic instability, and increased security concerns.”

How many people have been directly affected, and how many of them are children with disabilities?

“The exact number of affected people is difficult to determine, but it is clear that thousands have been impacted. In the areas affected by the shelling, She Hope Society supports approximately 4,000 people, of whom about 3,000 have been directly or indirectly affected by the crisis. Among them are an estimated 980 children with disabilities.

Hundreds have suffered psychological, emotional, or physical injuries due to the shelling. Thousands were forced to flee their homes and are displaced. Even now that the situation has calmed, children cannot attend school until the area has been cleared of mines and declared safe.”

What is the mood among people in the affected areas? Is there fear that the violence might return?

“I observe a mixture of resilience and cautious relief. There is a nervous silence – hope for stability, but also an awareness of how fragile peace can be. Many people have experienced immense stress and fear, especially in villages close to the border.

Now that the ceasefire is in place, displaced families are returning home and a sense of normality is slowly being restored. Some communities are rebuilding their homes and resuming daily life, although the scars of conflict remain. Troops remain present to ensure security, while residents cautiously move forward.”

And how is this specifically for the children you support?

“Children living close to the border experience significant psychological stress due to the ongoing conflict. The sounds of explosions, drones, and military activity have caused fear, confusion, and uncertainty. Parents report physical symptoms of stress in their children, such as vomiting and loss of appetite.

Behavioural changes are also noticeable. Some children have become withdrawn, suffer from sleep disturbances, or display aggression. Others express their fears through questions about their safety and future. Ongoing support will be essential to restore their sense of security.”

Has the crisis created new challenges for the children you support?

“The conflict has deeply affected the lives of affected families, creating many challenges in their daily lives. The destruction caused by the shelling has left families grieving and forced them to rebuild their lives. Children are particularly vulnerable, with interruptions to their education as schools remain closed or damaged. The psychological toll is significant, with many children experiencing anxiety and trauma as a result of the conflict.

The threat to safety has heightened fear among families, making it difficult to feel secure even though the ceasefire is in effect. Although people are beginning to return home, the restoration of normality is slow. Previous disruptions to essential services, such as medical care and access to supplies, have lessened since the ceasefire, but emotional scars remain. It will take time for children and families to recover from the trauma they have endured during this difficult period.”

What impact has this had on the staff of She Hope Society?

“Our staff have been deeply emotionally affected, especially when witnessing the suffering of those they serve. Particularly those with severe conditions whom they were unable to reach.

Many had formed close bonds with patients, which made the feeling of helplessness even more intense amid fear and uncertainty. The inability to provide care and continue support is heartbreaking.”

How do you feel about the future?

“I see both opportunities and challenges ahead. Now that the ceasefire holds, I have cautious hope for lasting stability. Displaced families are resettling, giving us a crucial opportunity to provide trauma-specific care for children and restore essential services such as education, healthcare, and economic stability. Humanitarian organisations can operate more effectively, strengthening long-term recovery.

Yet uncertainty remains. Sporadic ceasefire violations could disrupt progress. And the deep psychological impact – especially on children – requires ongoing mental health support. Continuity of aid remains a concern, as funding cuts could delay recovery and leave vulnerable families without resources. Economic instability persists, with many struggling to regain livelihoods lost due to displacement. The road ahead requires sustained commitment, cooperation, and resilience.”