The army is the last hope for the nation during times of disasters. They are not protecting the borders for safety and security only; they are alert so that we can sleep. Indian Army, the most disciplined army in the world has huge participation in people- oriented initiatives in Kashmir. Not only they provide and fight for peace and prosperity of the people of Kashmir during hard core turmoil but also engage people in different initiatives, programs, schemes and policies.

One of the latest incidents that brought out the Army's humanitarian aspect was in April 2025, when sudden flash floods struck Ramban district. Caused by persistent rains, the floods resulted in immense destruction sweeping away houses, hampering transportation, and leaving several families stranded. As always the Indian Army responded to the occasion with amazing speed and effectiveness. Troops were immediately deployed to the hit areas, establishing relief camps and distributing necessary provisions like food packets, potable water, warm clothing, blankets and medicine. Their prompt action saved lives and provided relief to those in distress. In coordination with the civil administration and local authorities the Army made sure that assistance reached even the most inaccessible villages isolated because of the floods.
The Kashmir earthquake in 2005 was one of the worst natural calamities to strike the region. It took place on 8th October 2005 and had a magnitude of 7.6 on the Richter scale. The earthquake resulted in widespread destruction in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly along the regions adjacent to the Line of Control. Thousands died, with many more injured. Houses, schools, hospitals, and roads were totally devastated, and people had no shelter or basic amenities. During this hour of need, the Indian Army promptly stepped in to conduct rescue and relief operations. Soldiers worked tirelessly day and night to look for survivors, offer medical assistance, and distribute food, water, and blankets. Relief camps and temporary shelters were established for the affected families. The Army also assisted in rebuilding destroyed infrastructure. Their swift action and commitment during the 2005 earthquake won them immense respect and appreciation from the regional people.
A similar but much greater-scale tragedy occurred in September 2014, when the Kashmir Valley experienced one of the worst natural disasters in its history. Severe continuous rains prompted the Jhelum River and its major tributaries to spill over, flooding enormous tracts of land including the capital city Srinagar. Thousands of houses were leveled, roads and bridges destroyed, and lines of communication rendered useless. Indian Army conducted Operation Megh Rahat, a relief and rescue operation. Almost 30,000 personnel, with engineering task forces, and in excess of 80 aircraft and helicopters, were deployed. Their objective was evident to rescue, relieve, and rehabilitate.
People were evacuated from under water to safety, relief camps were opened on a war footing and displaced families were given food, water, medical assistance, and temporary shelter. The sick and injured were treated by medical teams, and Army engineers worked day and night to repair damaged infrastructure. Roads were cleared of debris, bridges were restored, and communication facilities were restored gradually. This huge operation also showcased the Army's capability to deal with emergencies at an unprecedented level and under most difficult conditions.
The Indian Army was also pivotal in helping the people of Jammu and Kashmir during the COVID-19 pandemic. When lockdowns and travel restrictions isolated remote villages, the Army intervened to make sure that no community was left behind. Through its "Khairiyat Patrol" scheme, soldiers visited remote areas regularly to monitor the health of inhabitants and deliver necessary commodities. These materials included medical kits, masks, sanitizers, and food. In providing these products, the Army was able to save lives and ensure that individuals received what they needed during trying times. Not only did this benefit the population but also created an increase in trust between the Army and those that they are serving. The Army's work during the pandemic reflected their profound commitment to public health and their desire to do more than the required to help people in crisis.
But the role of the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir is not confined to relief in times of emergencies only. Their role in long-term rehabilitation and community development is just as important. One of the most effective ways of doing this is Operation Sadbhavana (literally Goodwill), instituted in the late 1990s. Under Operation Sadbhavana the Army has built roads, bridges, and health centers in far-flung villages where the basic infrastructure was a distant dream. Most importantly the Army opened Army Goodwill Schools throughout Jammu and Kashmir. The schools offer free, quality education to students, many belonging to poor or conflict-hit families. These schools have not only enhanced literacy levels but also increased the morale of communities, providing hope for a better future.
The Indian Army's works to rebuild lives restore dignity and bring hope with their dedicated and compassionate efforts and build the relationship of confidence and harmony among the army personnel and the public. It also needs to be recognized that there are challenges in front of the Army, when they are working in such a delicate and frequently unpredictable area. Weather conditions can be extreme, terrain is rugged and unforgiving and the security situation remains tense in some areas. In spite of these challenges the Indian Army remains present with discipline, empathy and professionalism.
The Indian Army has become a pillar of strength for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Their mandate extends far beyond border defense rescue in floods, education of the young, care of the disabled, and the empowerment of communities. They have demonstrated that nation service involves compassion, humanity, and steadfast dedication to the well-being of fellow citizens. While Jammu and Kashmir continues to battle environmental and social issues the Indian Army remains a true partner in development and peace. Their shoes may march with military precision, but it is their hands and hearts that have impacted so many along the valley providing hope in the face of despair, and light in darkness.

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