Watermill Legacy! How Rubina and her sisters from Kashmir transformed their family's livelihood

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Kashmir's Budgam district, presents a picture of resilience and determination. In the heart of this picturesque hamlet stands a watermill, where the Rahim family has not only found sustenance but also paved the path to a brighter future for their children.Rubina Rahim, a young woman who, despite her tender age, has shouldered responsibilities that have transformed her life and that of her family. Rubina, now a high school senior, embarked on her journey as a mill worker when she was in the 12th grade.

The Rahim family, consisting of Abdul Rahim, their father, and his three daughters and son, has long relied on the watermill as their primary source of livelihood. However, the family's fortunes took a positive turn when Abdul Rahim recognized the immense potential his daughters held and decided to involve them in running the watermill. «It was a difficult decision to make, but I saw the determination and capabilities my daughters possessed,» Abdul Rahim said and added, «I knew that with their help, we could not only sustain ourselves but also provide them with a quality education.» Rubina, recalls the challenges she faced while balancing her studies and her responsibilities at the watermill.

«At first, it was overwhelming,» she said with her eyes reflecting a mix of resilience and determination. «But I quickly realized that this opportunity was a stepping stone to a better future, not just for myself but for my entire family,» she added. The watermill, with its rhythmic hum, became the backdrop to Rubina's educational pursuits.