The Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army has undertaken about 110 development projects worth more than Rs 6 crore under the Operation Sadbhavna in the remote border villages of Pangong area in Ladakh. It is planned to almost double this contribution next year, besides undertaking other welfare and support activities to civil administration from time to time.
The projects include installation of a community radio station at Hanle, provision of ambulances with accessories for multiple villages, installation of borewells, establishment of an archery node, and other significant initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare and infrastructure.
The projects are part of the Vibrant Village Programme, which was reviewed by Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve in a meeting on Tuesday. The meeting also discussed Project Tsangda, which involves the construction of sanitary complexes in Durbuk and Pangong areas.
The meeting was attended by Colonel Atul Bharadwaj, representing HQ 14 Corps, Councillor Chushul, District Block Development Officer of Durbuk, and the supervisor overseeing Project Tsangda.
Colonel Bharadwaj shared detailed insights into the multifaceted development projects initiated by the Indian Army under the Vibrant Village Programme in Leh. He also presented proposed initiatives for the next year, which encompassed a wide spectrum of development areas, ranging from classroom repair and renovation to the procurement of essential vehicles and machinery, construction of welcome gates, and the provision of extreme cold climate tents.
Councillor Chushul highlighted the necessity for additional amenities, including cafeteria and toilet facilities at key locations, along with the need for generator installation at Pangong. He also advocated for the upgradation of women’s skill development centers and craft facilities in the Chushul region.
The Indian Army has been actively involved in the development of the border areas of Ladakh, especially after the standoff with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) last year. The Army has also been providing medical assistance, education, sports, and cultural activities to the local population.
The development projects undertaken by the Army are expected to boost the morale and confidence of the people living in the remote and harsh terrain of Ladakh, and also strengthen the bond between the Army and the civil society.
