Introduction
- The Indian Army has recently adopted Topa Pir village in Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir, as a model village under Operation Sadbhavana.
Operation Sadbhavana
- Purpose: Operation Sadbhavana (Goodwill) is an initiative by the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to address the needs of people affected by terrorism, primarily sponsored by Pakistan.
- Welfare Activities: The operation includes running Army Goodwill Schools, infrastructure development projects, and educational tours for children in remote areas.
- Focus on Education: There are seven Army Goodwill Schools under Operation Sadbhavana in the Ladakh Region, aiming to improve the standard of education.
- Objectives: The operation aims to achieve national integration, women empowerment, employment generation, and development activities towards nation-building.
- Collaborative Approach: Projects under Operation Sadbhavana are selected considering local aspirations and in coordination with the local civil administration.
Adoption of Topa Pir Village
- Model Village Initiative: The Army’s adoption of Topa Pir village is a step towards creating a model village, with an emphasis on community development and welfare.
- Recent Incidents: The village gained attention following a controversial incident involving the alleged torture of civilians by the Army, which led to the deaths of three individuals.
- Community Relations: The incident has significantly impacted the relationship between the Army and the local Gujjar and Bakarwal communities, who predominantly inhabit areas near the Line of Control (LoC).
