Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasized on Sunday that the Indian Army’s contributions during peacetime are as vital as its wartime role in safeguarding the nation. He specifically lauded the Army’s extensive humanitarian initiatives, disaster relief operations, and healthcare outreach programs, particularly in remote and geographically challenging regions of Jammu and Kashmir. These efforts, he noted, significantly extend beyond the Army’s conventional mandate of national border security.
Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that Singh made these remarks while speaking to reporters following the inauguration of a two-day mega medical camp organized by the Army under its ‘Operation Sadbhavana’ initiative at the Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Kishtwar district. This medical camp is projected to benefit approximately 5,000 individuals by providing access to specialist doctors, complimentary diagnostic facilities, essential medicines, and assistive devices. The event also includes provisions for ABHA registration, dedicated welfare stalls for ‘Veer Naris’ (war widows) and ex-servicemen, a youth guidance stall, and awareness stalls managed by various banks and government departments.
The Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office commended the collaborative efforts of the Army, specialist doctors, civilian medical practitioners, chief medical officers, and the local administration in orchestrating the medical camp. He highlighted the particular importance of such initiatives for rural and remote areas where access to specialized healthcare services is often limited. Singh pointed out that numerous preventable or treatable diseases often go undiagnosed in these far-flung villages due to a lack of awareness among residents about their medical conditions. He stated, “One of the distinguishing features of this camp is that it offers several medical specialities that are otherwise not readily available in this area. There are many diseases that can be prevented, but people living in remote villages often remain unaware of their conditions. As a result, these ailments sometimes reach a serious stage before they seek medical attention.”
Singh specifically drew attention to the critical need for eye care, noting that a substantial number of patients attending the camp were found to be suffering from cataracts, many of whom were unaware of their condition. He remarked, “In medical terminology, cataract is considered a preventable cause of blindness. In today’s world, nobody should lose their eyesight because of cataracts. If that happens, it is certainly not a good reflection of our healthcare system.”
The Union minister further elaborated on the dual purpose served by these medical camps. They not only provide immediate medical assistance to the populace but also generate crucial data regarding the prevalence of various diseases and the specific healthcare requirements of different geographical areas. He explained that based on the findings from these camps, a comprehensive report is compiled and shared with civilian authorities and the chief medical officer. This information is instrumental in helping them understand disease patterns in specific regions and identify the necessary specialized medical facilities required. This proactive approach, he indicated, is particularly beneficial for regions with difficult terrains and limited medical infrastructure.
Singh reiterated the Army’s significant role beyond its primary duty of border protection and security, especially in areas that have historically faced challenging geographical conditions and security concerns. He stated, “The Army is active during wartime, and its activities naturally receive considerable media attention. However, its contribution during peacetime, particularly in our region, is equally invaluable.” He added, “Whether it is a flood, an outbreak of disease, or a medical camp like this, the Army always comes forward to help. In these mountainous and remote areas, which have also witnessed the shadow of terrorism, the Army not only protects the people but also extends valuable assistance to the local population.” The Udhampur MP expressed his satisfaction with the response observed in the initial hours of the camp, expressing confidence that over 5,000 people would benefit from the services offered over the two-day period.
An Army spokesman confirmed that the two-day medical camp, conducted under Operation Sadbhavana, underscores the Army’s ongoing commitment to supplementing civilian healthcare services and extending specialized medical aid to individuals residing in geographically challenging parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The camp, by offering specialist consultations, diagnostic facilities, free medicines, dental procedures, and various welfare and awareness initiatives under one roof, aims to enhance healthcare accessibility and foster stronger coordination between the Army, civil administration, and the health department. This initiative is a testament to the Army’s multifaceted role in supporting the well-being of communities in the region, especially in areas where access to regular medical facilities is a significant challenge. The Army’s involvement in such humanitarian endeavors is seen as a critical component of its civic action programs, fostering goodwill and strengthening the bond between the military and the local population. The focus on remote areas addresses the specific needs of populations that are often underserved by conventional healthcare systems, ensuring that essential medical services reach those who need them most. The data collected from these camps also plays a crucial role in long-term health planning and resource allocation by the civil administration, enabling targeted interventions for prevalent health issues. The success of such camps is measured not only by the number of beneficiaries but also by the positive impact on the overall health awareness and access to medical care in the community. The Army’s presence and active participation in these events serve as a reassurance to the local populace, demonstrating a commitment to their welfare beyond security operations.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
Leave a Reply