Convener News Desk
Jammu, Jan 12: The Indian Army carried out a series of impactful outreach initiatives across Poonch and Jammu on Monday, reinforcing its commitment to nation-building, community welfare, youth empowerment and honouring veterans through a blend of social, developmental and patriotic activities.
As part of the outreach, the Indian Army celebrated National Youth Day with great enthusiasm at Lassana, Poonch, commemorating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. The programme aimed to inspire youth to imbibe values of leadership, discipline, self-belief and social responsibility. The event began with a tribute to Swami Vivekananda, highlighting his teachings on character-building, service to society and faith in one’s own potential. A range of activities including motivational talks, youth interactions, debates, cultural performances and awareness sessions were organised to promote creativity, critical thinking and civic engagement.
Around 60 civilians, including children, adults, educators and local representatives, participated in the programme. Speakers emphasised the crucial role of youth in shaping the nation’s future, with special focus on national unity, digital empowerment, environmental sustainability and mental well-being. Youth participants showcased their talents through speeches, music and art, reflecting confidence and determination. The programme concluded with a pledge by the youth to follow the ideals of Swami Vivekananda and work collectively towards building a progressive, inclusive and self-reliant nation.
In another significant welfare initiative under Operation Sadbhavana, the Indian Army handed over a newly constructed community toilet facility to the Gram Panchayat at Khana Chargal, Jammu. The project, aligned with the Prime Minister’s Swachh Bharat Mission, addressed a vital sanitation requirement of the local population and underscored the Army’s proactive role in promoting hygiene, public health and inclusive development in remote areas. The handover ceremony was attended by Shri Rehmat Ali, BDC Member, Smt Samima Begam, DDC Member, Sarpanch and Panchayat members, along with Army officers led by the Commanding Officer of the unit. The initiative once again highlighted the steadfast resolve of the Tiger Division and the Indian Army to serve communities beyond the call of duty.
Meanwhile, Veterans’ Day was observed with solemnity and deep patriotism in Poonch, as Ex-Servicemen, serving personnel and civil dignitaries gathered to honour the sacrifices and service of India’s veterans. As part of the commemorations, the Dhruva Motorcycle Rally progressed to Day 8 on January 12, 2026, carrying forward the message of honour, unity and national pride. Accompanied by the Eternal Mashal symbolising the everlasting glory of fallen heroes, the rally had arrived in Poonch from Mendhar a day earlier.
A wreath-laying ceremony and tribute to the Eternal Flame were organised at the War Memorial in Poonch, paying homage to brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice. The rally was ceremonially flagged off from the War Memorial by the Commander, Poonch Brigade, in the presence of veterans, civil dignitaries and members of the local community. Covering an approximate distance of 90 kilometres along the Poonch–Rajouri route, the rally spread the message of patriotism, unity and respect for the Armed Forces, receiving warm support from the local populace en route. The rally culminated at Thanamandi, Rajouri, marking the successful completion of Day 8.
Through these initiatives, the Indian Army reaffirmed its enduring commitment to youth empowerment, community welfare, veterans’ honour and national integration, strengthening the bond between the Armed Forces and the people while upholding the values of service before self.
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