The state of J&K has been hit by historic flooding and largely submerged after monsoons flooded the area earlier this month. Since flooding began on September 3, 1.9 million people have been affected and the death toll is 474 and rising.

The focus is now shifting from rescue to relief and rehabilitation. One of the biggest issues going forward will be shortage of essential supplies to J&K, with winter fast approaching. We have heard from our on the ground partners, that there is a massive need for solar lights that can both light large areas, and charge mobile phones so people can communicate.

After over a week of discussions with various on-the-ground entities, Milaap is fundraising for Frontier Markets - a solar lighting distribution company with on-ground partners, to deliver solar lights with mobile chargers in response to the heavy power cuts due to the floods. In response to this need, we are asking you to join hands and sponsor lights for us to airlift to Jammu and send to these victims.

True to Milaap's approach towards rightful end-utilization and transparency, Frontier Markets will provide you with details about the J&K Household that is receiving a solar lantern because of you. Not just that, you'll also receive an invoice once you make a donation, as well as a declaration form that this light will be sent to the J&K Flood Relief Efforts.

We are going to be sending the following light: The JS 30 MOB Sunlite Solar LED Lantern that is un-matched in quality, performance & design & a pioneer in portable off-grid lighting. The lanterns have the ability to consistently deliver high quality, durable off-grid solar lighting solutions that have an inherent smart functionality built into them and are extremely intuitive to use. The products are designed with the sole purpose of ensuring their clean light can be accessed by anyone, anywhere, anytime and during any circumstance – i.e. lamps that can be charged and used "on-the-go"!

All costs associated with your contribution (including payment gateway fees and wire transfer) will be absorbed by Milaap – this is the least we can do.

We encourage our community to stand in solidarity with distressed flood-affected people in Jammu and Kashmir and be part of the national effort to support them in this hour of crisis. Do contribute generously towards this relief.