Baramulla, September 16 JKNS: The Indian Army’s 52 Rashtriya Rifles conducted the second phase of solar light distribution under Operation Sadhbhavana at Butapathri on Wednesday, aimed at supporting Gujjar and Bakarwal families residing in remote Dhoks where conventional electricity connectivity is unavailable.
The initiative was organised as a continuation of the first phase held at the Nagin Dhok complex, where 100 families were provided solar lights.
Around 160 villagers, including elders, women and children, participated in the programme. The Army interacted with members of the Gujjar-Bakarwal community and discussed issues related to their traditional lifestyle, seasonal migration, adverse weather conditions, limited track connectivity and other administrative challenges.
During the programme, 137 solar lights, one for each family, were distributed among Gujjar-Bakarwal families from Butapathri, Sochalpathri, Atar and Arian Dhoks.
The solar lights are intended to provide basic illumination, support children’s studies and enable mobile phone charging in areas without conventional power connectivity.
The initiative also provided an opportunity for grassroots-level interaction between the Army and the local community, with residents expressing appreciation for the welfare measures undertaken under Operation Sadhbhavana.
The programme reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to supporting remote communities and strengthening trust, cooperation and mutual understanding with the local population.
JKNS

