DODA: Assam Rifles personnel under the 9 Sector RR distributed and installed solar street lights in Tasnal and Dhara villages of Doda district on January 20, providing much-needed illumination to these remote areas with limited electricity infrastructure.
The initiative, carried out under Operation Sadbhavana for the 2025-26 period, aimed to enhance nighttime safety, improve visibility on pathways and promote the use of clean, renewable energy in far-flung communities of the Chenab Valley.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, a team from Assam Rifles handed over high-quality solar street lights to residents, including women, youth and elders from both villages. The lights were strategically placed to cover key community areas and pathways. Personnel also offered free guidance on maintenance and proper usage to ensure long-term benefits from the equipment.
The event drew an enthusiastic response from locals and civil administration representatives, with villagers expressing gratitude for the timely support that addresses a basic yet critical need in regions prone to power shortages. Many highlighted how the solar lights would facilitate safer movement after dark, enable children to study longer in evenings and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources.
Operation Sadbhavana, a flagship civic action programme of the Indian Army, focuses on welfare measures in border and remote areas to foster development, build trust between security forces and civilians, and encourage sustainable practices. In Jammu and Kashmir’s hilly districts like Doda, such projects target infrastructure gaps, including lighting, water supply and community facilities, while strengthening civil-military relations.
Assam Rifles has undertaken similar civic projects across Jammu and Kashmir and other northeastern states, including installations of solar lights in border villages to improve quality of life and security. In Doda, these activities contribute to overall stability by addressing developmental needs in areas where conventional infrastructure development remains challenging.
Local administration officials present during the handover commended the Assam Rifles for their proactive role in community welfare, viewing it as a step towards inclusive growth in the Chenab region. Residents expressed hope for continued such support to tackle other pressing issues like road connectivity and basic amenities in these villages.
Farid Ahmed Naik is Executive Editor for The Chenab Times and first Sarazi language news reporter. He also covers Crime and Politics on CT. Read More…
