Opinion | Winning Hearts and Minds: How the Indian Army is Building Trust in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh

The Indian Army’s efforts in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh exemplify a unique blend of strength and compassion. Through Operation Sadbhavana and other initiatives, the Army has transformed from a mere security force into a trusted partner in nation-building.

By empowering youth, uplifting women, improving healthcare, and building infrastructure, the Army has not only countered terrorism but also sown the seeds of peace and prosperity.

The story of Turtuk and countless other communities stands as a testament to the Army’s success in winning hearts and minds, proving that trust, built through goodwill and action, can pave the way for a brighter, more harmonious future in these sensitive regions

The Indian Army has emerged not only as a guardian of national security but also as a beacon of hope, trust, and development for local communities.

Through a combination of humanitarian initiatives, community engagement, and relentless efforts to counter terrorism, the Indian Army has been steadily winning the hearts and minds of the people in these regions.

Launched in 1998 by the Northern Command of the Indian Army, Operation Sadbhavana (meaning “goodwill” or “harmony”) has been a game-changer in bridging the gap between the military and the civilian population in J&K and Ladakh. The operation was initiated in response to the alienation caused by years of insurgency and militancy, particularly in rural areas near the Line of Control (LoC). Its motto, “Jawan aur Awam, Aman Hai Muqaam” (peace is the destination for both the people and the soldier), encapsulates its mission to foster harmony and mutual trust.

Under Operation Sadbhavana, the Indian Army has invested heavily in socio-economic development, spending crores since its inception to address the aspirations of local communities affected by terrorism.

The operation focuses on key areas such as education, healthcare, women and youth empowerment, and infrastructure development.

By aligning projects with the needs and desires of the local population, the Army ensures that its efforts are both impactful and sustainable, with projects eventually handed over to the state government for long-term maintenance.

Education has been a priority under Operation Sadbhavana, especially in the wake of the destruction caused by terrorists who burned down thousands of schools in the 1990s to disrupt socio-economic progress.

The Indian Army has countered this by establishing and supporting educational initiatives across J&K and Ladakh. A shining example is the Army Super-50 program, an extension of the Super-30 initiative, which provides free coaching to underprivileged students for competitive exams like the IIT-JEE. In 2016-17, nine students from the Army Super-40 batch cleared the highly competitive IIT-JEE Advanced examination, showcasing the Army’s commitment to nurturing talent.

The North Kashmir Education Fest 2025, organized on July 26, 2025, under the theme “Taleem Se Tarakki” (Education for Progress), is another testament to the Army’s focus on education. Held in collaboration with the Union Territory administration, the event provided counseling, guidance, and career pathways to over 3,000 students from renowned colleges and universities across India. Scholarships worth INR 30 million were announced for underprivileged and tribal students from border districts, reinforcing the Army’s role in empowering the youth and fostering a sense of nationalism and discipline.

In Ladakh, the Army has established Army Goodwill Schools, with 13 schools set up in remote areas to provide quality education to children who would otherwise have limited access. These schools, along with initiatives like the Know Your Army campaign, promote military careers and instill values of patriotism and discipline among the youth, creating a positive perception of the Army as a partner in progress.

The Indian Army’s healthcare initiatives have brought critical medical services to remote and underserved areas. Medical camps organized under Operation Sadbhavana provide free check-ups, medicines, and specialized treatments, addressing the healthcare gap in regions affected by terrorism and harsh geography. In Ladakh, six medical complexes have been established, offering vital healthcare services to communities in isolated valleys.

Women’s empowerment is another key focus, with the Army running vocational training and life enhancement skills programs to promote gender equality and economic independence. On July 12, 2025, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha praised a vocational training course for women in South Kashmir, noting that such initiatives are paving the way for women-led development and helping combat social issues like terrorism and drug addiction. By empowering women, the Army is fostering social transformation and strengthening community resilience.

The Indian Army has played a pivotal role in improving connectivity in the challenging terrains of J&K and Ladakh. Infrastructure projects, such as the construction of roads, bridges, tunnels, and airfields, have enhanced mobility for both military personnel and civilians. These projects not only improve operational readiness but also boost tourism and economic activities, benefiting local communities. For instance, the Army’s efforts in rebuilding a bridge over the Poonch River during the 2014 floods re-established critical connectivity in the region.

In Ladakh, infrastructure development has been a catalyst for tourism, with improved roads and facilities making the region more accessible to visitors. The Army’s efforts have also included electrifying remote villages, providing generators, and establishing cooperative poultry farms, boys’ hostels, and orphanages, as seen in areas like Turtuk and Kargil. These initiatives have transformed the lives of border communities, fostering a sense of inclusion and trust in the Army.

While the Indian Army remains steadfast in its mission to counter terrorism and secure the borders along the LoC with Pakistan and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, it has adopted a humane approach to its operations. Operations like Operation Rakshak (1990), Operation Sarp Vinash (2003), Operation All Out (2017), and the recent Operation Mahdev (July 2025) demonstrate the Army’s resolve to neutralize terror threats. In Operation Mahdev, the Army, in collaboration with J&K Police and other security agencies, eliminated three Pakistani terrorists linked to the Pahalgam attack, showcasing its commitment to maintaining law and order.

However, the Army’s approach goes beyond combat. By adhering to strict protocols, such as avoiding civilian homes and respecting local customs during operations, the Army minimizes disruption to civilian life. This disciplined approach has helped build trust, particularly in areas where locals previously viewed the military with skepticism.

The Indian Army’s role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) has further solidified its reputation as a protector of the people. During the 2014 floods in J&K, the Army deployed nearly 30,000 troops under Operation Megh Rahat and Mission Sahayata, rescuing over 200,000 people and providing critical relief. These efforts, coordinated with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local bodies, demonstrated the Army’s ability to respond swiftly to crises.

In Ladakh, the Army’s HADR efforts have been equally impactful, with troops providing aid during harsh winters and natural calamities in remote areas. These actions have fostered a sense of gratitude and trust among locals, who see the Army as a reliable partner in times of need.

The transformation of Turtuk, a village in Ladakh that was part of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) until 1971, is a remarkable example of the Indian Army’s success in winning hearts and minds. Initially, locals in Turtuk viewed the Army as an occupying force, even aiding Pakistani forces during the 1999 Kargil War. However, Operation Sadbhavana changed this narrative. Through development projects, including schools, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure, the Army earned the trust of the community. Today, Turtuk residents refer to the Indian Army as “apni fauj” (our army), with 80 men from the area joining the Army and 32 enlisting in the police. This shift in perception underscores the power of goodwill and development in building lasting trust.

The Indian Army’s collaboration with the J&K and Ladakh Union Territory administrations has amplified its impact. Since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, which brought these regions under direct central governance, the Army has worked closely with civil authorities to implement welfare initiatives. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s participation in Army-led events, such as the vocational training program for women, highlights this synergy. These partnerships have strengthened social infrastructure, promoted peace, and fostered sustainable growth, with active community support further cementing trust in the Army.[](https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/indian-army-in-kashmir-from-counterterrorism-to-community-engagement)

While the Indian Army’s efforts have yielded significant results, challenges remain. The region’s complex geopolitical dynamics, coupled with occasional ceasefire violations along the LoC and LAC, require constant vigilance.

(The author is freelance journalist

based in J&K. Can be reached at welfare166@gmail.com)