The breathtakingly beautiful region of Kashmir has been scarred by its fair share of turbulance & unrest, marinated between the shadows of Pakistan sponsered terrorism from across the border; however, in between the strife and turmoil, heartwarming stories of hope and unity have emerged, amplified by the Sadhbhavana activities initiated by the Indian Army. Through various endeavors aimed at promoting peace, development, and goodwill, the Indian Army has fostered a positive impact on the local population, fostering a sense of community and fostering a path toward a more peaceful coexistence One of the primary activities undertaken by Indian Army is the functioning of Army Goodwill School, Hajinar. This School was established in the year 1999 and since then it has developed as the best school in the Karnah Valley owning to the quality of education, personality development and the infrastructure which the school has to offer. Presently the school is from UKG to class 12th and has a strength of 583 students and a teaching and non-teaching staff of 37 people. The school has facilities like separate laboratories for physics, chemistry and biology, Atal tinkering lab, fully furnished computer lab and Smart classes in 11 classrooms. The school is affiliated to 3 J&K Bn NCC, Baramulla with a strength of 50 cadets in junior wing.
Students outreach programme has been also undertaken by Indian Army to spread awareness about the Armed Forces as the best career option amongst the students of the Karnah Valley. The overall aim is to motivate youngsters to opt for Armed Forces as their first choice and at the same time enable them by assisting them in all phases of preparation. The visit of school and college students to army units are being organised to show them a glimpse of life in armed forces. In addition to it , lectures and seminars are also being organised by serving officers at various educational institutes to motivate them to join armed forces as officers. An awareness campaign was also organised to increase the awareness of the aspiring candidates on the preparation and conduct of the common entrance exam.The Indian Army has been also organizing medical camps in remote areas, where access to healthcare was limited. These camps provided essential medical services, including check-ups, vaccinations and distribution of medicines. Various awareness campaigns on breast cancer, tuberculosis, and vector-borne diseases have significantly improved overall health and well-being among the local population,
fostering a sense of goodwill and community support. Recognizing the pivotal role of women in society, the initiation of comprehensive programs dedicated to women’s empowerment, including vocational training, self-help groups, and awareness campaigns, has led to a notable increase in their independence and self-assurance, making them integral pillars of their communities’ development.
With a strong focus on the unifying power of culture and sports, the area witnessed a surge in community cohesion through the organization of diverse sports tournaments and vibrant cultural events, fostering a spirit of harmony and togetherness. These gatherings became a melting pot of different traditions, languages and beliefs, fostering a sense of unity among the diverse communities in the valley. The cultural events showcased the rich tapestry Pahari culture and heritage providing a platform for local artists and performers to display their talents through these events. People from different backgrounds found common ground and built lasting bonds of friendship through these cultural events.Long-standing infrastructure deficiencies had impeded progress in the valley, prompting the Indian Army to proactively engage in infrastructure development projects. Various local units spearheaded a series of small-scale initiatives, such as constructing bridges and community centers, leading to a significant enhancement in regional connectivity. These endeavors not only facilitated the smooth movement of people and goods but also generated employment opportunities, bolstering the local economy and fostering sustainable development. Better infrastructure paved the way for increased economic activity. It allowed business to flourish and communities to thrive, significantly enhancing the overall quality of life in the valley.The valley is no stranger to natural disaster from floods to avalanches. In times of crisis the formation was quick to respond, providing disaster relief and humanitarian aid. Their rapid response teams, quipped with essential supplies, worked tirelessly to assist affected communities, offering much needed support and solace in times of distress. These efforts showcased the compassionate side of the formation, reinforcing their commitment to the well-being of the people they served.The Sadbhavana activities conducted by Indian Army in the valley serve as a shining example of how armed forces can contribute positively to the well-being of local communities. These activities have not only improved the lives of the Kashmiri people but have also fostered a sense of unity, trust and hope in a region that has long been scarred by Pak sponsered terrorism. As the world continues to witness geopolitical challenges, Karnah Valley serves as a reminder that compassion, empathy and outreach efforts can be powerful tools for building peace and goodwill. Sadbhavana activities in the valley are a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit, the impact of collective efforts and the possibility of a brighter more peaceful future for the people of the region.
