Indian Army’s Romeo Force Steps Up Civil Outreach In J&K With Free Surgical Treatment For Burn Injuries
The Romeo Force provided free surgical treatment for burn injuries, including finger amputation surgeries for children. Image courtesy: X.com/@ANI
From flood relief and rescue missions to medical outreach to the civilians, Indian Armed Forces serve the nation beyond the borders. In a similar humanitarian outreach aimed at strengthening civil–military ties in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army’s Romeo Force, part of the Rashtriya Rifles, has extended free medical and skill-development support to local communities in the region.
The initiatives, carried out in Poonch and Ramban districts, underscore the Army’s dual role in ensuring security while contributing to social welfare and long-term stability in sensitive border areas.
On Tuesday (December 30, 2025), the Indian Army’s Romeo Force provided free surgical treatment for burn injuries to residents of Daraba village in Poonch district. The medical assistance focused on patients suffering from burns and accidental injuries, offering sustained follow-up care.
Families receiving treatment praised the professionalism and compassion of the Army doctors, highlighting the critical role such outreach plays in remote areas with limited access to specialised healthcare.
What impact has the free medical care had on locals?
A local girl told news agency ANI, “My hand was cut by a grass cutter machine, so my family brought me to the doctor here… The doctor provided me with an extensive treatment. Now we come to the doctor every 15 days, and I can do everything with my hands again.”
Nasreen Kauser, whose daughter suffered burn injuries after hot oil fell on her head, said the Army doctors have been treating her child for the past two to three months. “She is fine now… treatment is ongoing… the doctor is doing a lot. I thanked the armed forces and we pray for their happiness,” Kauser said, expressing gratitude for the continued care.
Why is this outreach by the Army significant?
Such humanitarian initiatives form a key pillar of the Rashtriya Rifles’ operational strategy in Jammu and Kashmir, aimed at winning trust, addressing immediate civilian needs, and reinforcing stability alongside counter-insurgency operations. By providing sustained medical care, the Army also helps bridge gaps in healthcare access in forward and rural areas.
Indian Army empowers youth in the valley
Beyond medical outreach, the Indian Army has also focused on youth empowerment through skill development. Recently, it organised a photography cadre at Government Degree College (GDC), Banihal, in Ramban district.
At the inaugural-cum-induction session, professional photographers trained students in camera operations and introduced them to the technical and creative aspects of photography and videography. Army officials highlighted photography as a viable career option, especially in a region with growing demand for digital content, tourism promotion.
Mohd Rafiq, a professional photographer involved in the programme, said the eight-day beginner-level course was designed to help participants become self-reliant. “It is a good initiative to help people learn new skills and become self-dependent,” he said.
