By | Naseem Durrani
Keran, Kupwara: In a historic stride towards transforming border villages into self-reliant and sustainable communities, the Indian Army, in collaboration with ASEEM Foundation and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir, inaugurated Project ROSHNI under the Vibrant Village Programme at the remote border village of Keran. The inauguration ceremony was graced by Smt. Chinta Devi, Veer Nari and wife of Late Nb Sub Chuni Lal, AC (P), VrC, SM — one of the most decorated soldiers of the Indian Army. Her presence symbolized courage, sacrifice, and the unwavering bond between the nation and its defenders.
Implemented under the aegis of 6 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion / 268 Infantry Brigade / 28 Infantry Division, the project embodies three pillars of development — Clean Energy, Clean Fuel and Clean Water — marking a new dawn for the people of Keran.
Under the Clean Energy Initiative, ASEEM Foundation successfully solarized nine clusters comprising 107 households. Each home is now equipped with solar panels, batteries, inverters, LED bulbs, and power sockets, providing round-the-clock renewable electricity. This initiative will not only brighten homes but also illuminate the dreams of Keran’s students, especially during long winter nights when education often suffers due to power cuts.
In the Clean Fuel segment, 40 households received LPG connections complete with double-burner stoves, regulators and safety kits. This step reduces dependence on firewood, safeguards the environment, and improves the health of families by promoting clean, smoke-free cooking.
As part of the Clean Water Initiative, a 2000-litre-per-day water filtration plant, developed in collaboration with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has been established. The plant, supported by dual storage tanks and uninterrupted supply systems, ensures safe and pure drinking water — a long-awaited blessing for the residents of this border hamlet.
To further enhance safety and beauty, 90 solar-powered street lights have been installed along the Kishanganga River by the Rural Development Department. These lights now illuminate Keran’s pathways, uplifting its charm and promoting eco-tourism in the picturesque valley.
Expressing heartfelt gratitude, a local community leader said, “We are deeply thankful to the Indian Army and ASEEM Foundation for bringing light, hope and development to our remote village. Project Roshni has shown us that even in the farthest corners, progress can shine bright.”
The ceremony was attended by senior dignitaries, including the President of ASEEM Foundation and the Commander, 268 Infantry Brigade, reaffirming the shared vision of civil-military harmony and national integration.
