Associated News Bureau

Army Holds Gujjar-Bakarwal Mela in Aishmuqam, Extends Welfare Support

Anantnag, September 24: The Indian Army’s 1 Sector Rashtriya Rifles, under the aegis of Victor Force, organised a Gujjar-Bakarwal Mela at Aishmuqam in Anantnag district, bringing together more than 50 members of the Gujjar-Bakarwal tribal community from different parts of the district. The event was organised under the Army’s Sadbhavana initiative, with a focus on community outreach, inclusion and engagement with the nomadic tribal community. As part of the programme, wheelchairs, hearing aids, solar lamps and essential daily-use items were distributed among underprivileged families. Financial assistance was also provided to members of the community. A medical camp was organised alongside the mela, offering healthcare services and basic medical assistance to participating families, particularly those from remote areas with limited access to healthcare facilities. The event also provided an opportunity for members of the Gujjar-Bakarwal community to interact with Army personnel in a cordial setting. The initiative highlighted the Army’s community outreach efforts aimed at extending support to vulnerable sections of society. According to the Army, the programme reflected the ethos of Sadbhavana by promoting goodwill, harmony and peaceful coexistence while extending assistance to communities residing in remote areas of Kashmir. Through such outreach initiatives, Victor Force and 1 Sector Rashtriya Rifles continue to undertake community-oriented welfare activities and engage with local communities across the region.