UDHAMPUR: A Bakarwal Mela was organized by the ‘Forever in Operation’ Division in the surroundings of Mughalpura to strengthen this bond by facilitating the Bakarwals with basic necessities and conducting various sports/cultural events, which witnessed their participation in large numbers. The GOC, ‘Forever Operations Division’ was the Chief Guest on this occasion.
A number of facilities like canteen outlet, medical and veterinary camp were part of the mela, alongwith games were conducted for the Bakarwali children and youths. A competition of Best Handicraft item for the artistic Bakarwali ladies was conducted.
The children presented folk songs and dance in honour of the Chief Guest and the Bakarwali ladies presented a skit depicting the life and times of a Bakarwali woman. In addition to the Bakarwal fraternity, the gathering comprising soldiers, civil and military dignitaries and villagers from nearby areas.
The Chief Guest addressed the gathering and distributed gifts to the Bakarwal children and prizes to the winners. The event was well appreciated by the Bakarwal community. The Hon’ble Minister Shri Abdul Gani Kohli, Minister of Transportation (J&K) mentioned about the role of Indian Army in safe guarding the nation and also appreciated the steps taken to improve the lives of Bakarwals as well as local populace.