DH NEWS SERVICE
jammu, Dec 28
The Indian Army organised a well-coordinated medical camp at Manjakote in Rajouri district on December 28, 2025, under its civic outreach programme Operation Sadbhavana. The initiative was aimed at providing free and quality healthcare services to the local population, particularly residents of remote and border areas who have limited access to proper medical facilities due to challenging terrain and infrastructural constraints.
The medical camp witnessed an encouraging response from the local community, with people from Manjakote and adjoining villages turning up in large numbers. A team of experienced Army doctors, working in close collaboration with civil medical authorities, provided comprehensive medical consultations and treatment across multiple specialties. These included general medicine, eye care, ENT, gynaecology and orthopaedics, ensuring that patients with a wide range of health concerns could receive expert attention at a single location. Free medicines were also distributed to patients after diagnosis, easing the financial burden on economically weaker sections of society.
More than 432 patients benefited from the camp, including 230 men, 149 women and 80 children. Special focus was placed on vulnerable sections such as children, women and the elderly, who often face greater healthcare challenges. The doctors conducted detailed health check-ups, identified common ailments and provided appropriate medical advice. Patients requiring further investigation or specialised treatment were guided and referred to nearby health institutions for follow-up care. Beyond curative treatment, the camp strongly emphasised preventive healthcare and health education. The medical teams interacted closely with the villagers to spread awareness about personal hygiene, balanced nutrition and the importance of preventive measures to avoid common diseases. People were educated on maintaining cleanliness, adopting healthy dietary habits and seeking timely medical consultation rather than delaying treatment. Such awareness sessions are especially crucial in rural and border areas, where lack of information often leads to preventable health complications.
The initiative played a significant role in bridging the gap between rural communities and healthcare services. For many residents, especially those living in isolated areas, accessing hospitals often involves long travel and financial constraints. The presence of Army doctors and civil medical authorities at their doorstep not only provided immediate relief but also strengthened confidence in institutional healthcare systems. The camp also fostered a sense of trust and cooperation between the local population and the Indian Army.
Operation Sadbhavana reflects the Indian Army’s enduring commitment to the welfare and development of people living in border and remote regions. While the Army remains vigilant in safeguarding national security, such humanitarian initiatives highlight its role as a responsible and compassionate institution deeply connected to the lives of civilians. By addressing essential healthcare needs, the Army continues to build strong bonds of goodwill and mutual respect with local communities.
The successful conduct of the medical camp at Manjakote underscores the Indian Army’s holistic approach towards nation-building, where security and social responsibility go hand in hand. The initiative not only improved access to healthcare but also promoted healthy practices and greater health awareness among the local population. Such efforts contribute meaningfully to improving the quality of life in border areas and reaffirm the Army’s dedication to serving the nation beyond its conventional duties.
