To the rest of the world, the high altitudes of Ladakh are rather known for their sub-zero temperature. These areas reamain cut off from other parts of India for almost seven months a year. The warmth of May brings fresh blades of grass and blossom to the fruit-bearing trees like cherry as the accumulated snow starts melting. It is this time when the locals, still clad in heavy woollens, venture to come out of their dwellings alongwith their livestock. They initiate the farming process and pray for a bright sun.

What the residents of this high altitude need most is warmth - both emotional and physical. The Army units deployed in this inhospitable terrain are the source of both. The medical assistance in these areas is the most wanted and least available care and is like a cherished dream for the natives. During the most difficult days of winters and even after that, Army has been organising medical camps for the needy.

Most recent in this chain was a medical camp at village Bugdang. Though comparatively at a small scale, this camp had everything that was needed. It was managed by three officers - one Medical Officer, one lady Medical Officer and a Dental Officer along with a dedicated team of six para-medicos. The response from the public was encouraging as expected. A total of 120 patients were treated during this one-day camp. This number included 102 adults and 18 children. The number of medical cases was 95 whereas remaining 25 were dental patients. Health education to the community was also imparted through a display of posters, distribution of booklets and pamphlets and interacting with the locals on subjects like personal hygiene, food hygiene, sanitation and immunisation.

Medical expenses including the cost of medicines were borne by the Army for this camp. The patients were also given refreshments and as a token of goodwill gifts were presented to youngsters.