Raipur: To protect the interests of villagers in Chhattisgarh’s insurgency-hit Bijapur district, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has established a veterinary assistance centre (VAC) to address veterinary problems.

VAC has been setup in remote areas of Pamalwaya on Bijapur-Gangloor axis by the 85th battalion of CRPF. It was inaugurated formally on Monday, said commandant of the battalion Sudhir Kumar, elaborating that the services in the centre are being provided at free of cost.

The officer further informed that the centre is being operated by assistant commandant Manir khan, who has served as assistant veterinary officer in government of Punjab before joining CRPF.

“Before the setting up of the centre, the officer was actively providing assistance and also creating awareness about livestock maintenance to the people in the area. In case of serious problems, the villagers are suggested to appropriate government or public facilities that provide free or subsidised services,” said commandant Sudhir.

Due to the complicated geographical condition and the rough terrain in the district, veterinary hospital here is inaccessible to a large number of people residing in remote locations of Bijapur following which CRPF’s 85th battalion has setup the centre, said commandant Sudhir.

The officer further informed that during the formal opening of the veterinary centre, a large number of people were present and took benefits. Moreover, a civic action programme was also conducted at Pamalwaya to mark the occasion.

Meanwhile, various items like umbrella, blankets, utensils and clothes were distributed among villagers.

The move is seen as an effort by the 85th battalion to bridge the gap between people and security forces as well as win the hearts and minds of the people.

Notably, CRPF’s 85th battalion has already taken initiative to ensure healthcare facilities to the people in the district. Besides this, the CRPF personnel are also ensuring quality education to children in the insurgency-hit district.