Ganderbal, May 11: The Indian Army on Monday organised a special interaction programme and traditional Barakhana for members of the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities in the districts of Bandipora and Ganderbal as part of efforts to strengthen civil-military coordination and enhance security cooperation in the higher reaches of Kashmir.
The programme was conducted under the aegis of the Army’s Kilo Force and 3 Sector Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and saw the participation of nomadic Gujjar and Bakarwal families preparing for their annual seasonal migration to upper mountain pastures.
During the event, Company Commanders briefed the participants on security-related procedures and documentation requirements necessary for obtaining clearances during migration through transit routes and sensitive areas. Army officials also shared operational guidelines and precautionary measures to be followed while travelling through dense forests and remote mountainous regions.
Officials advised the community members to remain vigilant during migration and avoid suspicious or prohibited activities. The interaction focused on ensuring safe movement of nomadic families who travel annually to higher grazing grounds during the summer season.
The programme also provided an opportunity for members of the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities to raise concerns related to their migration and daily challenges faced in remote areas. According to Army officials, the grievances and issues highlighted by the participants were heard during the interaction, and assurances of support and cooperation were extended.
Army officials emphasised the role of local communities in maintaining peace and strengthening the security grid in remote forest belts and upper reaches of the Valley. Owing to their regular movement through mountainous terrain and isolated areas, Gujjar and Bakarwal communities were encouraged to continue cooperating with security agencies by sharing information and remaining alert during their migration.
The interaction concluded with a traditional Barakhana hosted for the participants. The event aimed at promoting coordination, trust and communication between security forces and local communities residing in far-flung areas of Kashmir.
The Army has been conducting similar outreach programmes in different parts of the Valley as part of its civil-military engagement initiatives, particularly in areas witnessing seasonal migration of nomadic populations.
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