DH NEWS SERVICE
Poonch, may 12
Amid the aftermath of recent cross-border firing incidents along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army has intensified its outreach efforts to support and stand in solidarity with displaced civilians in the Poonch district. In particular, the Indian Army has been engaging closely with affected residents of Surankote and surrounding villages, where many families were forced to evacuate their homes and take shelter in safer locations.
As part of its ongoing humanitarian initiatives, Indian Army personnel-including officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and jawans-have been visiting temporary shelters and relief clusters established for displaced populations. These visits are not limited to offering material aid but go a step further to provide emotional support, reassurance, and guidance, addressing the psychological toll of sudden displacement and violence.
The Army’s engagement efforts include one-on-one conversations, group meetings, and interactive sessions where soldiers listen to the concerns, fears, and needs of the displaced families. These genuine interactions aim to foster a sense of safety, solidarity, and stability among the civilians, especially women, children, and the elderly, who are the most vulnerable in such situations.
Families shared that the personal visits by Army personnel have brought them emotional comfort and hope during a time of uncertainty and upheaval. The mere presence of uniformed soldiers, not as enforcers but as empathetic guardians, has significantly uplifted the morale of the displaced population. The Army has also ensured that local traditions, customs, and dignity are respected during these engagements, further strengthening the trust between the people and the forces.
Several individuals voiced their appreciation for the Indian Army’s continued support beyond the battlefield. In addition to food distribution and medical camps, this emotional outreach has emerged as a pillar of strength. It has reassured many that they are not alone, and that the nation stands with them during this crisis.
Lt Col Suneel Bartwal, who is leading the engagement efforts in the region, emphasized the Army’s role not just in defending borders but in nurturing the spirit and resilience of its people. He noted that these interactions are crucial for understanding ground realities and tailoring future relief efforts accordingly. “Our duty is not only to protect our citizens but also to stand beside them during their most difficult moments,” he stated. The Indian Army has also been coordinating with local administration and civil authorities to ensure that concerns raised during these interactions are conveyed and addressed promptly. This coordinated civil-military approach has proven effective in streamlining relief operations and rebuilding trust.
The Army’s engagement with civilians in Surankote is a reflection of its deep-rooted values of compassion, service, and commitment to the nation. In these challenging times, the Indian Army has emerged not only as a shield of defense but also as a beacon of hope and humanity for the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
As tensions persist, the Army remains vigilant and prepared-not just to respond militarily but to continue its unwavering support to the civilian population, reinforcing its promise of security, care, and solidarity.
