'Sadbhavana' mission a useful tool of army to win hearts of people : Virbhadra Singh

5 Dariya News

Shimla 13-Oct-2017

In order to instill awareness amongst the farmers of remote border villages of Poonch area of Jammu and Kashmir regarding adopting modern and scientific technique of horticulture and farming, a delegation of 22 farmers and officers of 9 Rajputana Regiment of Indian army called upon Chief Minister  Virbhadra Singh here today.The army under its 'Sadbhavana' project has conducted this Capacity Building Tour (CBT) to assist the farmers in better understanding the modern techniques of farming and Horticulture. The farmers were taken to Agriculture University Palampur, Horticulture University Nauni and to agriculture research institute Shimla.The Army’s Northern Command launched 'Operation Sadbhavana' in 1998 to extend a helping hand in rebuilding the socio-economic life of the people.An army officer accompanying the farmers said that the group of farmers selected for this tour was from poor and under-privileged background from the villages of Poonch area, adjoining Line of Control along Indo-Pak border.He said that the Army’s Sadbhavana drive is an informal approach mechanism for the officers and soldiers to interact with and show genuine concern and interest in the welfare of the local population under  'Winning Hearts and Minds' (WHAM) measure. He said that Himachal Pradesh provides an excellent opportunity for accomplishing such endeavours as it has similar topography to that of Jammu and Kashmir.The Chief Minster appreciated the efforts of the army personnel and said that 'Sadbhavana' mission was a useful tool in building a positive image of the Army. This is a good approach to rebuild the socio-economic life of the people. He said that such education tours not only helps providing exposure but also to learn about the cultural diversity of various regions, adding that the measure so adopted also helps to win over the alienated sections of the society, particularly in the conflict zones. He said that the army's presence and assistance thus have positive impact on the minds of the local population and thus builds cordial relations.