The Indian Army have moved well beyond its traditional job of guarding borders, and in the past, have even evolved to be a sign of hope and stability, all the while carrying out a number of activities to win the hearts and minds of the local populace. By way of humanitarian activities, development schemes, and people's interaction, the Army has worked to close the gap between the civilians and itself and create a spirit of trust and cooperation.
Operation Sadbhavana (Goodwill) initiated in 1998 is one of the most important endeavors in this context. It is aimed at integrated development in the region by way of attending to high-priority areas of education, healthcare, infrastructure, and empowerment of women. During this operation, the Army has set up schools, held medical camps, constructed roads and bridges, and run vocational training courses, particularly targeting far-flung and underdeveloped regions. The operating motto, "Jawan Aur Awam, Aman Hai Muqam" (Soldiers and People, Peace is the Destination), defines the spirit behind the mission.
Education has always been a major aspect of the Army's humanitarian effort. The Army has established numerous Army Goodwill Schools in J&K, knowing that education could be an agent of change. In bringing quality education to thousands of students, these schools send a strong message of peace and discipline. A vivid illustration of how education can transform lives is Sabzar Bhat from Kupwara district in J&K. With the assistance of Army scholarship and counseling, Sabzar was able to secure admission in Delhi University. Now, Sabzar is a role model and. his story has motivated many in the region to pursue education as a key to a better future.
Wherever health facilities were not reachable, the Army has bridged the gap. Regular medical and veterinary camps are being organized under operation Sadbhavana, moving services into villages, with available free check-ups, medicines, and raise awareness on health. One of many moving instances happened in the Machil sector when the Army physically evacuated a pregnant woman from a village snowed in to a hospital. Both mother and child survived. Acts such as this one have generated more confidence in the people between the Army.
The Army has also operationalised various initiatives specifically for young women in J&K. Skill’s development centers in Baramulla, Kupwara, and Poonch provide training to women in tailoring and handicrafts and computer training, thereby providing employment opportunities for the women that are also financially stable. The Army arranges career counseling for the youth, sponsoring students for professional courses, as well as holding sports tournaments and educational tours. A contingent of students from Anantnag recently undertook a "Bharat Darshan Tour," where they traveled to cities such as Delhi, Agra, and Mumbai, expanding their horizons and instilling a feeling of national oneness.
Indian Army has been in the forefront in natural disasters in J&K consistently. In the 2014 floods, the Army evacuated more than 2.37 lakh civilians, delivered vital supplies, and rehabilitated critical infrastructure. In seismically vulnerable areas such as Uri and Doda, Army executes mock exercises, awareness camps, and builds earthquake-resistant shelters, improving the disaster readiness of the region.
Sports have also become an effective tool for the Army's drive towards building harmony. Activities such as the Chinar Corps Football League have united communities, ensuring healthy competition and bonhomie. In 2021, Iqra Rasool, a young cricketer from Baramulla, was assisted in her training by the Army, ultimately finding herself recognized in women's cricket. Her story highlights the Army's drive to develop grassroots talent.
The Army's construction projects have greatly enhanced connectivity in the far-flung areas of J&K. Road and bridge construction and the establishment of water supply systems has made markets, schools, and health facilities more accessible. One such project was the building of a bridge in Tangdhar linking two erstwhile cut-off villages, thus changing the lives of scores of families.
The Army conducts regular events to mark national holidays, promoting a sense of national integration and patriotism among the local population. Republic Day, Independence Day, and Army Day celebrations witness active involvement of school-going children and citizens, promoting national integration. In territories previously hard-hit by militancy, similar events have restored a feeling of community and pride among the populace.
The programs of the Army link with the national vision of "Nari Shakti", "One India, Strong India", and "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas". In 2023, an Army unit was awarded the COAS Unit Citation for its joint work on Community Development and Counter Insurgency in Kupwara. This further reaffirmed the Army's capacity to function in terms of security and development.
A terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2025 killed 26 civilians, mostly Hindu tourists. The attack on Pakistan-backed militants has triggering tensions between the two countries. India retaliated with Operation Sindoor, a four-day military offensive against terrorist bases in Pakistan. The operation destroyed several Pakistani aircraft and drones. In these months, the Indian Army assisted significantly in the safety of civilians in J&K. In these months, the Indian Army took an active role in protecting civilians in J&K. They undertook evacuations, provided medical care, and maintained law and order. They demonstrated their commitment to the local population's welfare even during wartime.
The Indian Army's tripartite strategy in Jammu and Kashmir, including security, development, and humanitarian initiatives, has played a key role in gaining the hearts and minds of the masses. Through constant interaction and sincere commitment towards the well-being of the people, the Army remains an integral part of the region's path towards peace and prosperity.

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