People of all age groups while sharing their experiences amongst each other count army as an essential friend in North Kashmir. It has been building bridges since decades which gave a productive output with each feather of prosperity in North Kashmir. Steady steps were taken towards winning hearts of the terror-trodden region. The difference in lives of people is explicit in words of praise army is gaining across the length and breadth of the Union Territory. Indian army contributed with material and manpower during natural and manmade catastrophes, beyond call of their duty. It is creditable how it has become a part and parcel of the society. Since decades the tolerance gathered has resuscitated brotherhood in valley. Although situations kept on changing but the trust was never broken. Inimical elements intermittently who attempted to go to the wall, failed miserably in their nefarious designs.
Locals who are direct beneficiaries of developmental initiatives were never hesitant in showering words of praise for Indian army. Appreciation has come quite often, not from the political class, but spontaneously from locals who the army has been assisting in a number of ways from time to time. Kupwara has enjoyed many benefits from presence of the army, including freedom of movement without any fear of terrorists. Even now Kupwara is witnessing a boom in tourism sector due to maintenance of all-time vigil on inimical elements. Factually, presence of army in any area of the country has proven out to be a catalyst in development of the area. Around 1.2 billion are spent by army in movement of their men from station to station. Markets and people associated with them earn a huge profit. People of Kupwara are major beneficiaries of the infrastructure and facilities built by the army. In turn it provides ease of movement for the locals ending their isolation. Indian army is by and large one of the biggest employer for the people of Kupwara. On an average 4 out of 10 persons have some relevance with the army in North Kashmir.
During the recent Ramadhan, every day people would enjoy Iftaar parties organized by men in uniform. Poor and orphans were provided with basic household amenities. Ration and other articles were also given to them on timely basis for better catering of days of fasting. In border districts, the bond of trust has thrived even deeper with time. During the harsh winters, locals of border areas are greatly dependent upon welfare services provided by the army. During winters, army is playing its key role of guardians. They rescue families in distress by providing prompt medical aid. A large number of families who require emergency medicines are made available also. Routine checkups are carried out in villages. From vaccination to helicopter service, army is sole friend of the people of frontier areas. People are greatly gladdened by high-level of graciousness and cordiality demonstrated by army in Ramadhan.
Men in uniform are always there for emergency situations like medical evacuation services and firefighting. Soldiers always ready, are the first to reach the spot. Army has also been busy in conducting multiple social welfare activities throughout the year. It has organized a number of skill development centers where locals are being trained by professionals. Once their training is over, they are given jobs by companies in and outside state. The recent surge in food and bakery startups in Kupwara was ensured through army-sponsored skill development programs. Fashion designing and tailoring is also on trend, mainly in women section. Young girls are now able to earn their livelihood and give vocational trainings to their fellow members as well. ‘Self-employment’ is now popping up in almost every social media account, due to vocational trainings received from reputed institutions.
Recently a video of stitching center at Trehgam went viral on social media. It casted girls stitching fashionable clothes, while enjoying with the other trainees. People have faith in army and initiatives undertaken by them. Army has worked relentlessly for improving the living standards of the local population especially the downtrodden section of Kupwara which were often neglected. It is also involved in providing educational scholarships and basic infrastructure for learning. Army has also played a major role in strengthening local government. It has encouraged Panchayati Raj institutions and brought the locals into the mainstream of democracy. The bond between the Army and the locals is enamored from both ends due to which it has grown stronger with each passing day. It bears a great example for whole Kashmir, as to how, putting hands together can act as a pivot for long lasting development and prosperity.
