Friendship Day: Indian Army builds lasting bonds with North-Eastern communities

Kohima (Nagaland) [India], August 4 : The Indian Army is steadfast in its aim to support the diverse communities of the North-Eastern states and has forged a deep bond of friendship through a wide array of impactful initiatives across the region, according to a press release by Ministry of Defence
In Assam, the Army's friendly overture was showcased by providing infrastructure support and educational facilities, providing medical assistance, organising cultural exchange programmes and sports events, and promoting women's empowerment initiatives.
'Operation Sadbhavana' spearheaded numerous construction projects, including the development of toilet blocks, open-air gyms, and computer labs, significantly enhancing local infrastructure and educational facilities. Medical camps provided essential healthcare to thousands, while national integration tours for students and teachers promoted cultural exchange and unity, the statement added.
The Army's socio-cultural programmes, sports events, and women empowerment initiatives, such as multi-utility and stitching centres, have strengthened community bonds and fostered self-reliance among women.
Manipur witnessed the Army's commitment to friendship through various initiatives such as medical assistance, nurturing of young minds, organising community events, promoting consciousness for environmental protection and providing relief assistance to displaced people, the release stated.
As part of these initiatives, medical and dental camps were organised and special assistance was provided on Mother's Day. The felicitation of young achievers, guidance sessions for Agniveer aspirants and NEET qualifiers underscored the Army's role in nurturing future generations.
Community events like friendly football matches and tree plantation drives promoted health, peace, and environmental consciousness, while the provision of relief material and celebrations on Republic Day fostered goodwill and patriotic spirit among displaced persons and villagers.
In Nagaland, the bond of friendship was manifested through different community development activities. The transformation of unused infrastructure into a community hall, vocational training for women and the establishment of a computer training centre exemplified the Army's focus on community development and empowerment.
Medical aid camps, educational tours, and sports tournaments, such as the Captain Kenguruse Football Tournament, highlighted their efforts to enhance health, education, and sportsmanship. The creation of a community centre and the provision of Wushu coaching camps further demonstrated their dedication to fostering community spirit and physical fitness.
In Tripura, the Army championed the cause of friendship by promoting unity, community welfare, the welfare of ESM, and humanitarian assistance. The unique bicycle rally, "Pedalling Patriots: 1971 Liberation Spin," commemorated the valour of the Indian Army in the 1971 Indo-Pak war and highlighted their ongoing commitment to unity and remembrance.
Their flood rescue operations, blood donation camps and anti-drug abuse drives further showcased their dedication to community welfare. The Army's efforts in honouring Veer-Naris and organising ex-servicemen rallies reinforced their respect and support for veterans and their families, while celebrations at the 'Apna Ghar' old age home in Agartala fostered a sense of belonging.
Through these diverse initiatives, the Indian Army has cemented its role as a friend to all communities in the northeastern states, promoting development, unity, and well-being across the region, the release added.