Indian Army's Role in Providing Medical Assistance in Remote Villages

THROUGH INITIATIVES LIKE THE KHAIRIYAT PATROLS, DISASTER RESPONSE OPERATIONS SUCH AS OPERATION SURYA HOPE, AND THE ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES, THE ARMY HAS ENSURED THAT EVEN THE MOST ISOLATED COMMUNITIES RECEIVE ESSENTIAL HEALTHCARE SERVICES.

- SYED JAHANZEEB

In the vast and diverse landscape of India, there exist numerous remote villages. These areas often face challenges in accessing essential services, particularly healthcare. The Indian Army, recognizing its role beyond defense, has been instrumental in providing medical assistance to these underserved regions, showcasing a commitment to the nation's holistic well-being. One notable initiative is the Khairiyat Patrols, introduced during the tenure of Lieutenant General B.S. Raju. These patrols were designed to reach out to residents in remote areas, especially in Jammu and Kashmir, to assess their well-being and offer necessary medical attention. The term "Khairiyat" translates to "well-being," reflecting the patrols’ primary objective. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these patrols gained significant momentum, addressing both health concerns and fostering trust between the army and local communities. By December 2020, the army had organized multiple medical aid tours under this initiative, ensuring that even the most isolated villagers received timely medical care.