DH NEWS SERVICE
Doda, may 25
In a significant outreach initiative under Operation Sadbhavana, the Indian Army organised a comprehensive Medical and Veterinary Camp at Lal Draman, located in the remote Bhagwah tehsil of Doda district on 24 May 2025. The initiative was in response to the growing medical needs of the underprivileged Gujjar and Bakkarwal communities residing in this difficult-to-access region, where poor road connectivity, harsh weather conditions, and lack of infrastructure severely limit healthcare access.
The camp was a joint effort involving the Indian Army’s medical team, doctors from Government Medical College (GMC), Doda, and veterinary experts from the District Sheep and Animal Husbandry Department. The Army Medical Officer led the initiative, ensuring a structured and efficient delivery of healthcare services.
A total of 209 individuals benefited from the medical camp, including 115 males, 69 females, and 25 children. The services included health screenings, medical consultations, and free distribution of essential medicines. The camp also focused on increasing awareness about preventive healthcare practices, especially targeting women and children. Pamphlets on health, nutrition, and childcare were distributed among the attendees to educate them about common illnesses and the importance of regular check-ups.
Parallelly, the veterinary section of the camp addressed the healthcare needs of livestock-an essential livelihood asset for the local and nomadic populations. Over 185 animals, including cows, sheep, horses, mules, goats, and buffaloes, were screened and treated by veterinary doctors. Free animal medicines were also distributed, ensuring the long-term wellbeing of livestock crucial to the subsistence of Gujjars and Bakkarwals. The event saw the participation of 4 doctors from GMC Doda, 10 veterinary and support staff from the Animal Husbandry Department, and 12 media personnel who helped document and highlight the effort. Locals responded with overwhelming gratitude, praising the Army’s continued support and humanitarian commitment. They acknowledged the importance of such outreach programmes in regions where state healthcare infrastructure is still developing. The Indian Army reiterated its dedication to social welfare and national integration through these people-centric missions, especially in border and remote districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Such camps not only deliver essential services but also build trust and goodwill between the armed forces and local communities, promoting peace, harmony, and developmental collaboration in the region.
