Aritra Banerjee
For more than twenty years, the Indian Army has been actively involved in reshaping the future of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh through initiatives centered on education, healthcare, and opportunities. Operation Sadbhavana, which began in 1998, represents not just a military outreach program but a long-term commitment to nation-building, working to bridge the divide between security forces and the local populace through various welfare and development projects.
Education: A Lifeline for the Youth
A significant aspect of Operation Sadbhavana is the Army Goodwill Schools (AGS), a network of 45 institutions that have educated nearly 15,000 students throughout the region. These schools offer a stable learning environment for children, particularly those from areas affected by conflict and insurgency, protecting them from the disruptions of war.
The success of this initiative is notable: AGS students achieved a 100% pass rate in the CBSE Class 10 examinations in 2019. Drawing inspiration from Bihar’s Super-30 initiative, the Army’s Super-40 program has enabled aspiring youth from J&K to gain admission to India’s top engineering colleges. In 2017, nine students successfully cleared the IIT exams, and in recent years, over 80% have passed the JEE Mains—demonstrating that with the right opportunities, the region’s youth can excel.
In addition to formal education, the Army provides essential supplies such as books, uniforms, and tech-driven educational support, ensuring that remote communities, often overlooked due to logistical issues, can access quality learning resources.
From Skills to Self-Sufficiency
Beyond education, Operation Sadbhavana emphasizes economic empowerment, particularly for women. Over 80 community centers now offer training in areas such as tailoring, information technology, and entrepreneurship. Many women have utilized this support to start their own businesses, including bakeries, tailoring shops, and craft enterprises, increasing their financial independence and enhancing social mobility.
The Army’s involvement in establishing these centers goes beyond skill development; it also involves facilitating the procurement of equipment, creating market connections, and providing mentorship, empowering participants to translate their training into real career opportunities.
Leveraging Sports and Culture for a Brighter Future
Sports are becoming a significant agent of change under Operation Sadbhavana. The Indian Army has set up over 100 Khelo India Centres, where young athletes can train in disciplines like archery, boxing, and athletics. The Centre of Excellence in Leh is taking this initiative further by offering high-performance training to ensure local talent receives the same opportunities as athletes in other parts of India.
Events such as the Khelo India Winter Games and cultural exchange programs provide young people with an escape from the narratives of conflict, fostering a sense of national pride and unity. These initiatives not only build self-confidence but also pave the way for careers in sports and related sectors.
Bridging Communities Through Radio
To strengthen communication and build trust, the Army launched Radio Baramulla 89.6 FM and Radio Uri 90.0 FM in June 2024. These community radio stations serve more than just entertainment; they act as platforms for government outreach, promotion of local talent, and community cohesion.
For years, external narratives and misinformation have shaped public perceptions in J&K. These radio stations are reshaping the information landscape, stimulating dialogue, and countering divisive rhetoric.
Beyond Assistance: A Journey Toward Self-Reliance
Operation Sadbhavana has transitioned from merely providing aid to fostering a path toward long-term stability and self-sufficiency. The initiative has redefined the role of the Indian Army in the region—from a force focused on national security to a partner in development, empowerment, and progress.
As J&K and Ladakh continue to evolve, the challenge ahead is to build on this momentum and ensure that gains in education, employment, and infrastructure lead to sustainable growth. By maintaining engagement and prioritizing youth-led development, the Army’s goodwill mission is laying the groundwork for a more secure, empowered, and hopeful future for the people of the region.
(The author is a Defence, Foreign Affairs & Aerospace Columnist)
