Tuesday, 08 AUGUST 2023 | PNS | DEHRADUN
The Soldier Welfare minister Ganesh Joshi met the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan in New Delhi on Monday. He requested that the areas of Uttarakhand bordering China should be included in Operation Sadbhavana on the lines of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Joshi said that Uttarakhand is strategically important and suggested that the 119 brigade of Indian Army based in Pithoragarh and ninth brigade based at Joshimath in Chamoli can be included in the Operation Sadbhavana. The minister also requested the proposal to open a CSD canteen in Doiwala should be cleared and said that in view of geographical condition of the state canteens at other places should also be opened. In the meeting the duo also discussed Sainya Dham being constructed in Dehradun. The minister suggested that arms used by the Indian Army should also be displayed in the Dham so that the youngsters get attracted to join the armed forces.
The demand by Joshi to include areas located on the Indo- China border in Uttarakhand should be included in Operation Sadbhavana assumes significance since many initiatives of public welfare are undertaken under it. The operation is undertaken in the rural areas bordering the line of control. Initiatives such as infrastructure development, medical services, women and youth welfare, education, tourism and sports are taken up under it. Projects are planned as per the local needs and aspirations, executed and handed over to the State government. The operation reflects the commitment of the Indian Army to get closer to the local population in Jammu and Kashmir and win their confidence.
The CDS General Chauhan assured the minister that he will look into the matter and take necessary measures.
