Jammu, Jan 9: To understand the concerns regarding development and education, Indian Army interacted with members of the Gujjar-Bakarwal community at Rampur in Billawar belt of Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Defence spokesman on Thursday said that the interaction aimed to address their issues, inform them about the Army’s role in regional development, and strengthen their trust in the Indian Army.

During the event, GOC Gurj Division emphasized that the Indian Army is committed not only to national security but also to the welfare and progress of people living in remote and border areas.

He encouraged the youth to focus on education and explore employment opportunities for a better future, he said.

The spokesman added that the forum provided an insight on various initiatives and schemes launched by the government for the upliftment and welfare of Gujjar-Bakarwal community.

“To mark the occasion, the Indian Army distributed New Year sweets to the Gujjar-Bakarwal community, fostering a sense of harmony and mutual trust between the Army and the local population,” he stated.

UNI