13/10/2025
Lateef Ahmad Honored at Smile Foundation NGO Mass Marriage Assistance Ceremony
Srinagar, October 13
Lateef Ahmad, owner of The Downtown TV, a social media platform for needy people of Kashmir valley was felicitated yesterday at a mass marriage assistance ceremony organized by the Smile Foundation NGO. The event, led by Chairperson Masrat Jan and President Sajjad Ahmad Sholla, recognized community contributors and highlighted the foundation’s ongoing efforts to support underprivileged couples through financial aid, social services.
The ceremony brought together local leaders, beneficiaries to celebrate marriages for families who otherwise could not afford the costs. Smile Foundation ngo showcased its recent achievements in expanding access to marriage support, including streamlined application processes and partnerships with media and civic organizations to raise awareness. Lateef Ahmad was honored for The Downtown TV’s continuous media coverage and outreach that helped connect needy families with the foundation’s programs.
“Community media plays a crucial role in amplifying the stories that matter,” said Masrat Jan, Chairperson of Smile Foundation NGO. “ The Downtown TV ensures that more families learn about the help available to them and can participate in programs that restore dignity and stability.” The ceremony also included remarks from President Sajjad Ahmad Sholla, who praised the collaborative efforts of volunteers in making the event possible.
The recognition of Lateef Ahmad highlights the importance of Social media platform in civic life. By featuring the foundation’s work and sharing beneficiary stories. Recipients at the ceremony expressed gratitude for the comprehensive support they received — from practical wedding planning to modest financial grants that relieved immediate burdens.
Smile Foundation reiterated its commitment to continue expanding the program to reach more communities in need. Plans were announced to document the program’s impact through follow-up visits and stories aired by The Downtown TV, aiming to create a model that can be replicated in neighboring regions. The foundation also called on other media, businesses, and individuals to join hands in a coordinated effort to reduce the economic barriers to marriage among vulnerable populations.
