Indian Army’s 133 Ecological Task Force Honoured with Himachal ‘Samarth-2025 Award’
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Shimla, October 14, 2025 — The 133 Ecological Task Force (Western Command, Indian Army) was awarded the ‘Himachal Samarth-2025 Award’ for outstanding environmental management and disaster response in Himachal Pradesh.
For over two decades, the Task Force has been actively engaged in afforestation, environmental conservation, and disaster mitigation across Mandi and Kullu districts, particularly in the Sutlej and Beas river valleys. Between July and September this year, the unit played a commendable role in rescuing stranded travelers along the Ludhiana-Chandigarh-Manali National Highway during floods, landslides, and monsoon-related disasters.
Addressing the occasion, Commanding Officer Col. Deepak Kumar said, “Under its nation-building mission, the Indian Army remains committed to assisting civil administration in relief and rescue operations, ensuring the safety of lives and property.”
The Task Force has also conducted mega awareness campaigns on environmental conservation, disaster preparedness, and capacity building, reaching over 2.5 lakh citizens in Himachal Pradesh. During forest fire emergencies, the unit saved approximately 900 hectares of land, protecting lives and property, earning high praise from the state government.
Presenting the award, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Minister Aniruddh Singh lauded the Task Force for its dedication to environmental protection and congratulated Col. Deepak Kumar for his leadership and professionalism.
