Srinagar, June 24 -- Irshad Mushtaq

Did you know that many Kashmiri youth are not short of intelligence, but short of exposure, skill-training and earning confidence? A child born in a wealthy family may inherit property, business, networks and financial safety. A child born in an ordinary family may inherit only education, hope and the sacrifices of parents. But that does not mean the second child is weak. It only means his journey needs more discipline, more skill and more courage.

In many Kashmiri homes, one fear is silently repeated: "Rich children already have everything. Our children have nothing. How will they compete?" This fear is emotional, but it is also practical. Kashmir's economy has opportunities, but it also has limitati...