In the heart of Jammu Kashmir, under the shades of the majestic Chinar trees, two incidents unfolded one a tale of duty, the other of compassion both revealing the truth that the Indian Army stands by its people, in war and in peace. Near Sangrama village of Sopore on the Srinagar-Baramulla National Highway, tension filled the air as Security Forces, acting on specific intelligence input about the movement of terrorists, set up a Mobile Vehicle Check Post (MVCP). The troops remained vigilant when they spotted a speeding civil truck approaching. Despite repeated warnings and signals to halt, the driver accelerated further, breaking through the checkpoint. The soldiers, sensing a possible threat, pursued the truck for over 23 kilometers. In an attempt to stop it, they fired shots aiming at the tyres to deflate them, forcing the vehicle to a halt at Sangrama Chowk. Immediately, the troops rushed to search the truck and found the driver, identified as Waseem Ahmad Mir, a 32-year-old resident of Bomai village, critically injured. The Army personnel quickly evacuated him to GMC Baramulla, hoping to save his life, but he was declared dead on arrival. It was a moment of deep regret for the soldiers a decision made in the line of duty, under the cloud of potential terror threats, had led to a tragic loss of life.

Another incident showcased the Army’s unwavering commitment to humanity. A minor, Anayat Hussain, a resident of Arai, met with a severe accident involving an Army vehicle in the vicinity of Mandi Poonch. Without hesitation, the soldiers rushed him to Sub District Hospital Mandi for immediate medical attention. As his condition worsened, he was referred to District Hospital Poonch, where doctors did their best but found his injuries critical. He was then shifted to GMC Rajouri, but the severity of his condition required more specialized care. In a swift and coordinated effort, the Army ensured his transfer to Amandeep Hospital in Amritsar, a premier medical facility, for advanced treatment. Throughout this ordeal, GOC Ace of Spades Division and Brigadier of 93 Infantry Brigade personally monitored Anayat’s health condition, ensuring he received the best possible care. Today when the youth injured is responding to the treatment and being discharged from the Hospital his father addressed media and thanked Indian Army for providing helping hand to the poor family while Interacting with the media he said “Indian Army has not only provided full financial support to the family but also arranged around ten units of blood to save the young boy’s life”.

Indian Army’s relentless efforts sent a clear message that when it comes to protecting the people, the Army does not differentiate between the battlefield and humanitarian aid. These two incidents, though different in nature, reflect the dual reality of Jammu and Kashmir. While Pakistan has spent decades fuelling terror, misusing international aid meant for development, the Indian Army has stood firm not only securing the region but also extending a helping hand to those in need. The people of Jammu and Kashmir must recognize this contrast. While Pakistan’s agenda has robbed them of peace and progress, the Indian Army remains the only force dedicated to their safety and welfare. The shades of the Chinar have long witnessed conflict, but they also bear witness to hope. In times of crisis, when terror threatens or tragedy strikes, the Indian Army stands resolute. The Indian Army not only defends the nation with bullets but also stands by its civilians with blood, ensuring that no life is lost for lack of support. Different situations demand different responses, but the commitment remains the same. It won’t be wrong to quote “For every bullet that guarded the nation, there was a helping hand that healed its heart”.