28/05/2026
Indian Army Organises Medical and Veterinary Camp in Remote Lolab Village Ahead of Eid-ul-Adha
Nasir iqbal
Kupwara, May 28: In a remarkable humanitarian and outreach initiative aimed at supporting remote border communities ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, the Indian Army, in close coordination with the Department of Animal Husbandry and local civil administration, organised a comprehensive Medical and Veterinary Camp at Dardpora village in the picturesque yet remote Lolab Valley of North Kashmir’s Kupwara district.
The initiative was organised keeping in view the festive occasion of Eid-ul-Adha as well as the annual seasonal migration of Gujjar and Bakarwal communities towards upper mountain pastures with their livestock. The camp witnessed enthusiastic participation from residents of Dardpora and adjoining areas, with hundreds of villagers availing free medical consultation, medicines, and veterinary assistance.
Dardpora village, predominantly inhabited by Gujjar, Bakarwal and Pahadi communities, remains one of the remote pockets of the region where access to healthcare and veterinary facilities often becomes difficult due to terrain and limited infrastructure. Recognising these challenges, the Indian Army took the initiative to bring essential healthcare services directly to the doorsteps of the people.
A team of Army doctors, including a woman medical officer, conducted detailed medical examinations and consultations for local residents. The presence of the woman doctor was especially appreciated by local women and young girls, many of whom felt more comfortable discussing their health concerns openly in a culturally sensitive environment. General health check-ups, awareness regarding hygiene and preventive healthcare, and free distribution of medicines formed a major part of the programme.
Simultaneously, a civilian veterinary team from the Animal Husbandry Department carried out health examinations and treatment of livestock including sheep, goats, horses, and cattle — animals that form the economic backbone of migratory tribal families. Veterinary experts provided medicines, vaccinations, and guidance related to animal care during the upcoming migration season to high-altitude grazing grounds.
Locals expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the Indian Army for organising the camp at a crucial time. Many residents described the initiative as a thoughtful and timely Eid gift for the community.
“This camp has come at the right moment when families are preparing for Eid celebrations and our livestock is getting ready for migration to the upper reaches. The Army has always stood with us during times of need, and such initiatives strengthen our confidence and trust,” said a local elder from the village.
Women participants also appreciated the inclusive nature of the camp. One beneficiary remarked that the interaction with the medical team reflected genuine concern for the welfare of the people and helped create a sense of reassurance among villagers living in remote areas.
Officials associated with the programme stated that the initiative was aimed not only at providing immediate healthcare assistance but also at strengthening the bond between the security forces and local communities through humanitarian outreach and public welfare measures.
The collaborative effort between the Army, civil administration, and the Animal Husbandry Department highlighted the spirit of mutual cooperation and community service. The initiative further reinforced the longstanding relationship of trust, goodwill, and coordination between the Indian Army and the people residing in the frontier areas of Kupwara district.
The successful conduct of the camp once again demonstrated the Army’s commitment towards the welfare and well-being of people living in far-flung regions, particularly during important social and cultural occasions such as Eid-ul-Adha.
