CHINAR CORPS LEADS HUMANITARIAN RELIEF AMID TARGETED SHELLING IN TANGDHAR-KARNAH DIVISION

In the face of escalating hostilities and repeated violations of international humanitarian norms by Pakistan, the Chinar Corps of the Indian Army has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the well-being of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. This week, several civilian hamlets in the Tangdhar-Karnah division of Kupwara came under heavy and targeted artillery and mortar fire from Pakistani forces - strikes aimed not at military positions, but at critical civilian infrastructure including hospitals, schools and religious sites. These acts, clearly in violation of international conventions protecting non-combatants during armed conflict, represent a deeply concerning escalation. The deliberate targeting of non-military assets in populated areas has caused widespread panic and displacement among local residents, especially in Bhatpura Panchayat, the most affected areas of the region.

Amidst this crisis, the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps swiftly launched a humanitarian aid initiative to provide critical support to the displaced and distressed civilians of the region. In a well-coordinated effort, soldiers delivered essential relief materials like  food, clothing, medical kits, hygiene supplies and basic necessities,  to families impacted by the shelling along the Line of Control. This initiative is part of the Chinar Corps’ long-standing tradition of standing shoulder to shoulder with the people of Kashmir in times of need. While the adversary continues to sow fear and disruption through unprovoked aggression, the Indian Army continues to provide stability, relief and hope to those caught in the crossfire. A senior official from the Chinar Corps emphasized, "Our response goes beyond military readiness. It is rooted in compassion and the belief that protecting our nation also means protecting our people - especially the most vulnerable. This relief mission reflects our responsibility toward every citizen living near the borders or in the hinterland."

The psychological and emotional toll of the recent shelling has been especially severe on women, children and the elderly. The constant threat to life, loss of shelter and destruction of public institutions have created a climate of fear and instability in the border belt. Yet, despite these challenges the resolve of the local populace remains strong. Villagers from Bhatpura, while condemning Pakistan’s deliberate targeting of civilians, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Indian Army for its timely intervention. One resident shared,"Pakistan’s goal is to make us live in fear - to make us flee and lose faith. But we are not afraid. With the Army by our side, we will rebuild our homes, reopen our schools and restore our lives." The support extended by the Indian Army has played a vital role not only in providing physical aid but also in restoring the morale of these frontline communities.

This humanitarian outreach also serves to expose the true intentions behind Pakistan’s actions. While it often projects itself as a benefactor of the Kashmiri people, its military continues to engage in acts that contradict that narrative - targeting civilians, violating ceasefires and destroying essential infrastructure. In contrast, the Indian Army, through its measured and humane response has underscored its role as both protector and partner to the people of Jammu & Kashmir. The aid operation in Tangdhar/Karnah is yet another example of this enduring commitment.

As the shelling subsides and normalcy gradually returns, the Chinar Corps remains committed to continuing its support for the affected families. Plans are underway for additional outreach, including medical aid camps, trauma counselling sessions and infrastructural rehabilitation projects in collaboration with civil administration and local stakeholders. This sustained engagement highlights a broader strategy - not just to respond to crisis, but to rebuild lives and ensure that border communities emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of future challenges.

In a region often overshadowed by geopolitical tensions, the Indian Army’s humanitarian outreach stands out as a beacon of hope and unity. The Tangdhar/Karnah relief mission is not just a response to adversity - it is a reaffirmation of the Army’s role as a guardian of not only borders but also the dignity, dreams and lives of every citizen it protects. As long as the people of Kashmir face threats to their peace and safety, the Indian Army, through initiatives like these will continue to stand by them - not just as a military force, but as a humanitarian one.