NE NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, MARCH 26
The Army and IAF in Kashmir have instituted a host of measures and are constantly taking initiatives to educate and sensitize the Awaam and assist the civil administration to contain the spread of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), a Defence spokesman said.
To contain the spread of the pandemic in Kashmir, the Army has once again based on the requirement projected by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), in close coordination with the Air Force arranged for 150 Knapsack Mechanised Boom Sprayers and an additional 3,000 litres of QAC to be airlifted from Surat to Srinagar. This will not only enable the civil administration to effectively combat the threat of the pandemic but will ensure that they are empowered to protect the Awaam of Kashmir.
Online education facility for 28 28 Army Goodwill Schools
To help the students cope with the closing of schools due to the precautionary measures the Army with support from iDream Education and Extramarks Education India has ensured that all students across its 28 Army Goodwill Schools have access to online study material and content. This will ensure that their studies do not suffer and they can gainfully utilize their time at home during the civic isolation.
All across the Valley, many grassroots level initiatives have also been instituted to generate awareness among the population regarding various preventive measures to be adopted. Many innovative methods for making announcements using loudspeakers, drones, and local masjids are being employed. Besides, Mobile Vehicle Check Posts have also been established by Army Camps across the Valley to educate the transients and restrict the unnecessary movement of people.
Social media to create awareness among the masses
In times of social distancing restrictions being implemented, the Army is extensively leveraging technology to aid its functioning and awareness campaigns. Extensive use of WhatsApp groups is being done to broadcast advisories and important information to the Awaam. This not only obviates any physical contact but also provides up to date information in real-time.
Necessary precautionary steps being put in place along with a host of proactive measures which have been undertaken in close coordination with the civil administration will see to it that the Valley remains safe and prepared for any contingency in the coming days. From being a ‘Humsaya’ to becoming a ‘Muhafiz’ the Army is constantly working alongside the Civil Administration to bring succour to the lives of the population of Kashmir.
