They're divided by religion and terror in one of the most volatile regions of the world but when they hit the books together, play with each other, or even share their meals, that thought is furthest from their minds. For, at the end of a day that begins at 6.30 am, Saima Banu and Shahnaz Akhter of Babhore and Sushma Devi and Banti Devi of Jodhpur village in Doda district, J&K, are nothing but proud students of a primary school at Arnoda, started by the Army two years ago. While Sushma and Banti lost their fathers when militants attacked their village, Saima and Shahnaz are related to Riaz Bhat of Babhore, a militant active in the region for many years. But the differences melt away in the confines of the improvised hostel which the Rashtriya Rifles has constructed for them. Which is why though they go home once a week, they’re only too eager to return, a sentiment encouraged by their parents who hope the quality education they are getting will allow them to build better lives.