By M S Nazki
In a remarkable display of compassion and unwavering dedication to national integration, the Rashtriya Rifles Battalion, operating under the esteemed Headquarters Counter Insurgency Force (ROMEO), has once again exemplified the Indian Army’s humane face by executing a vital humanitarian assistance initiative in the remote heights of Surankote area of Poonch district.
The noble endeavour unfolded at Chhatapani Dhoks, Poshana (COB KM 28) — a rugged, high-altitude enclave nestled deep within the Pir Panjal ranges, home to the resilient Gujjar and Bakkarwal communities. Battling harsh climatic conditions, scant infrastructure, and limited healthcare access, these nomadic communities have long faced untold hardships while sustaining their traditional way of life.
Recognizing these challenges, the Rashtriya Rifles orchestrated a thoughtful relief mission aimed at bringing immediate succour and renewed hope. Essential relief material — comprising high-quality sleeping bags to shield against freezing nights, durable mosquito nets to prevent vector-borne diseases, and vital medicines — were meticulously distributed among the local families.
This act of benevolence was not merely about material aid; it embodied the Indian Army’s profound commitment to inclusive community upliftment and enduring nation-building in sensitive border belts. By extending a helping hand to the region’s underserved citizens, the soldiers reaffirmed their abiding credo of “Winning Hearts and Minds” — a cornerstone of the Army’s counter-insurgency doctrine that transcends the realm of security alone.
A substantial number of beneficiaries from the Gujjar and Bakkarwal communities gratefully received the assistance, their faces brimming with relief and appreciation. The heartfelt gratitude expressed by the villagers stood testament to the deep trust and mutual respect shared between the armed forces and the local populace.
This humanitarian outreach has not only alleviated immediate hardships but has also strengthened the invisible bridge that connects the Army with the remotest of citizens it vows to protect. It reinforces the Rashtriya Rifles’ pivotal role as sentinels of peace and custodians of development in regions that often remain cut off from the mainstream.
Through such compassionate endeavours, the Indian Army continues to script stories of hope, unity, and resilience, ensuring that every heartbeat in the nation’s farthest frontiers feels cared for, protected, and valued.
