| Indian Army organizes Medical, Dera registration camp | | | Early Times Report
Poonch, Apr 15: In a dedicated initiative to support the seasonal migration of Gujjar and Bakarwal communities, the Indian Army organized a Dera Registration and Medical Assistance Camp at Kotli Kalaban in Poonch district.
The camp aimed to facilitate the safe and structured movement of nomadic pastoralists as they begin their traditional journey to the high-altitude pastures north of the Pir Panjal range. Known for their rich heritage of nomadic pastoralism, the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities undertake this bi-annual migration with their livestock—a practice vital to their livelihood and cultural identity.
As part of the initiative, dera owners were registered and provided with laminated QR codes containing authenticated digital data about their families and livestock. This technological intervention is designed to improve coordination and verification at checkpoints along the migration route, ensuring a safe and efficient passage.
To streamline the process further, the Army collaborated with the local civil administration to assist in the renewal and updating of migration permits, aligning traditional practices with modern governance.
In addition, a comprehensive medical camp was set up to cater to the health needs of both the nomadic families and their animals. Army medical teams conducted health check-ups, distributed essential medicines, and provided guidance on health and hygiene during the migration.
The initiative was met with heartfelt appreciation from the Gujjar and Bakarwal communities, who praised the Indian Army’s continued commitment to their welfare. This effort not only preserves a centuries-old way of life but also reinforces the strong bond of trust and cooperation between the Indian Army and local communities. |
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