Portia Putatunda, a 32-year-old journalist from Ranchi, Jharkhand, found solace in Spiti Valley after losing her father. She opened a free boarding school, Planet Spiti Foundation, in Komic to provide education and support to underprivileged children.
Portia’s journey began in 2013 when she first visited Spiti Valley and fell in love with the place. However, it wasn’t until 2018, after losing her father and battling depression, that she decided to move to Spiti permanently. Motivated by her father’s memory, she started teaching local kids and noticed the poor state of education for underprivileged children in the region.
With the help of donations, Portia established a free boarding school and library in Komic, providing food, shelter, and education to 10 children between the ages of three and ten years. Convincing parents to send their children to school was a challenge, but her efforts have proven successful, and the school has grown since its inception.
Despite facing funding challenges, Portia’s dedication to the children and her passion for education keep her going. She hopes to expand the school in the future, providing education beyond primary levels. Portia finds fulfillment in the smiles of the children she teaches and believes her work is a tribute to her late father.
Portia’s inspiring journey from journalism to teaching reflects her determination to make a positive impact on underprivileged children’s lives in the Spiti Valley.
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