DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
Poonch: June 4, 2024
In a significant outreach initiative, the Indian Army organized a Youth Mela for the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities at Pir Topa village in Poonch.
The event aimed to raise awareness among the local populace about crucial societal issues and the various educational, employment, and development schemes available to them.
This effort by the Indian Army underscores its commitment to fostering community development and enhancing trust between the Army and the local population.
The Youth Mela was a vibrant event, drawing participants from the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities, known for their rich cultural heritage and nomadic lifestyle. The primary objective of the Mela was to educate the residents and children about the importance of peaceful living and coexistence in society. The event emphasized the value of harmony and mutual respect, which are essential for building a cohesive community.
One of the key components of the Mela was the dissemination of information about various educational and scholarship schemes available to the youth. Representatives from the Indian Army and other organizations provided detailed insights into the opportunities for higher education and vocational training.
They highlighted schemes that offer financial assistance and support to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, thereby enabling them to pursue their academic goals without financial constraints.
In addition to educational schemes, the Youth Mela also focused on employment initiatives by the State and Central Government. The event showcased various programs aimed at creating job opportunities and promoting self-employment among the youth. Attendees were introduced to the Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP), which aims to improve the living standards of rural people by providing opportunities for skill development and income generation.
The Drought Prone Area Programme (DPAP) was another significant initiative highlighted at the Mela. This program aims to mitigate the adverse effects of drought on agriculture and livelihoods, ensuring sustainable development in drought-prone areas. The Nehru Rozgar Yojna (NRY) was also discussed, which focuses on providing urban unemployed youth with opportunities for skill development and employment. Furthermore, the Prime Minister’s Integrated Urban Poverty Eradication Programme (PMUIPEP) was introduced as a comprehensive scheme aimed at alleviating urban poverty through a multi-faceted approach involving education, employment, and infrastructure development.
The Indian Army’s initiative to organize the Youth Mela was met with immense appreciation from the local community, referred to as “AWAM.” The gesture was seen as a significant step towards bridging the gap between the Army and the civilian population, particularly in remote areas where access to government services and information is limited. By reaching out to these communities, the Army demonstrated its dedication to the holistic development of the region and its people.
The event also featured interactive sessions where participants could engage with representatives from the Indian Army and other organizations. These sessions provided a platform for the youth to ask questions, share their concerns, and seek guidance on various issues. The direct interaction helped build a rapport between the Army and the local population, fostering a sense of trust and cooperation.
The Youth Mela at Pir Topa village was not just an informative event but a celebration of community spirit and collaboration.
