JK- Bhaderwah, Oct 24: Amidst the golden sunlight and calm hills of Bhaderwah, smiles bloomed across the faces of rural families in Panchayat Duggi, Chinta, as the Indian Army’s 4 Rashtriya Rifles reached out with a gift of light distributing solar lanterns under Operation Sadbhavna’s Project Light.
For many of these villagers, where long power cuts and harsh winters often bring nights of darkness, the simple glow of a solar lamp means more than convenience it means hope, dignity, and safety.
The initiative, led by Commanding Officer Yogesh Chauhan and Major N.P. Reddy, aimed to support needy families living in remote corners of Bhaderwah Valley. The officers personally interacted with locals, listening to their challenges and assuring them of the Army’s continued partnership in improving daily life in far-flung areas.
Women, children, and elderly villagers gathered under makeshift tents, their eyes lighting up as they held the lanterns symbols of care that will brighten their homes when the sun sets behind the mountains.
Former Sarpanches Sushil Bhagat and Kuldeep Manhas of Chinta area, who joined the distribution function, praised the Army’s selfless service and its people-first approach.
Local villager Abdul Latief Mir, along with several others, also appreciated the Indian Army’s humane work culture in militancy-affected regions of Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a shining example of peace, compassion, and national integration.
“The Army has once again shown that it stands not only for the nation’s borders but also for the hearts of its people,” said one villager, holding her child close and a lantern in her hands.
Through Project Light, the Army reaffirmed its bond with the people of Bhaderwah reaching where roads fade, bringing light where darkness lingers, and hope where it is most needed.
Report: Mansoor Qadir, J&K.
