Itanagar, April 9 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K. T. Parnaik (Retd) on Thursday lauded the continued commitment of the Indian Army towards the comprehensive development of border areas, noting that its sustained efforts are instrumental in enabling inclusive growth, strengthening community resilience, and promoting nation-building at the grassroots level.

According to a Lok Bhavan official, Lt Gen Parnaik visited the Border Brew Cafe at Zemithang in Tawang district earlier in the day.

The Governor commended the initiative as an inspiring example of community participation and entrepreneurial spirit in frontier regions.

He appreciated the Indian Army’s consistent support for the inclusive development of villages and human habitations along border areas, reiterating that such efforts play a vital role in fostering self-reliance and socio-economic progress among local communities.

Expressing satisfaction with the initiative, the Governor emphasised the importance of community-driven enterprises in transforming remote border villages into vibrant economic centres while preserving cultural authenticity and maintaining social harmony.

Sharing his own experience, Lt Gen Parnaik, who had established Café 1400 ft at Nathula in Sikkim, suggested incorporating greater involvement of local youth.

He recommended promoting traditional attire, developing local mementoes, and creating dedicated spaces for photography to enhance visitor engagement and showcase regional identity.

Colonel Rohan Khisti, Commanding Officer of the 2 Maratha Light Infantry, informed that the café is run by the Bap Teng Kan Women Self-Help Group.

He added that the initiative was set up by the 5 Mountain Division under Operation Sadbhavana.

The café represents a significant step towards local empowerment in border areas by creating sustainable livelihoods and encouraging self-reliance among residents. It also highlights the potential for grassroots economic development and resilience-building in strategically important frontier regions, the official stated.

Operation Sadbhavana (Goodwill) is a long-running Indian Army civic action programme, primarily active in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

The initiative focuses on winning hearts and minds by addressing socio-economic needs through education, including Army Goodwill Schools; healthcare services, such as medical camps; infrastructure development covering water, power, and roads; and the empowerment of women and youth through vocational training.

The programme aims to counter alienation and foster a sense of national integration.

–IANS

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