15 August 2012 – The UNMISS Indian Battalion conducted a free, day-long medical and veterinary camp for residents of the Upper Nile State capital of Malakal today.

Veterinary officer Lt. Col Ravinder Yadav hailed what he called the "very tremendous" turnout by 400 residents who received medical treatment along with 166 livestock animals.

The event coincided with the 65th anniversary of Indian independence.

The battalion's commanding officer Col. Sandeep Vasudera underlined the Indian government's intention to continue its support for South Sudan.

"The Indian Government is committed to giving essential services as humanitarian support to the needy people and animals in South Sudan," he said.

Col. Vasudera noted that the battalion is also operating a veterinary clinic at Malakal's Upper Nile University that seeks to build the capacity of students enrolled at the university's veterinary college.

Malakal resident Veronica Ocham thanked the Indian Battalion for providing drugs free of charge for her child and herself.