Convener News Desk
Jammu, Jan 13: The Indian Army continues to deepen its defence outreach and community engagement across Jammu and Kashmir through a series of impactful initiatives focused on youth empowerment, healthcare outreach, national integration, sports development and veteran welfare, reaffirming its commitment to nation-building beyond its core security mandate.
Under Operation Sadbhavana, the Indian Army has established a Youth Activity Centre at Village Chhatroo in Kishtwar district, aimed at providing local youth with a structured platform for holistic development. The centre is equipped with a computer training lab, a library and basic sports facilities, addressing long-standing gaps in educational and sports infrastructure in the region. Designed to promote creativity, discipline, unity and self-confidence, the facility has been widely appreciated by the local populace and civil administration and is envisioned as a catalyst for socio-economic progress while strengthening the enduring Awam–Jawan bond.
In a major youth outreach initiative, the National Integration Tour (NIT) for students of Degree College, Poonch, organised by the Ace of Spades Division under the aegis of the White Knight Corps, successfully culminated on January 12 with a Flag-In Ceremony at Nagrota. The tour, which commenced on January 3, provided students with exposure to India’s democratic institutions, cultural heritage and national security ethos through visits to New Delhi, Agra and Amritsar. Highlights included an interaction with the Hon’ble President of India, visits to the National War Memorial and Pradhan Mantri Sangrahalaya, witnessing the Republic Day Parade rehearsal by NCC cadets, a visit to the Taj Mahal, and experiences at the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh and Wagah Border Retreat Ceremony. The GOC White Knight Corps, while interacting with the students, lauded their enthusiasm and underlined the role of youth engagement in fostering national unity and integration.
Extending healthcare services to remote populations, the Indian Army conducted a medical patrol at Islampur in Rajouri district on January 13. Free medical check-ups and medicines were provided to 55 villagers, including men, women and children, who otherwise face limited access to healthcare due to terrain and remoteness. The patrol also included a health awareness lecture focusing on nutrition, hygiene, sanitation and preventive healthcare. The initiative was warmly appreciated by the local community and further strengthened trust and goodwill between the Army and civilians.
In Rajouri, the 10th Veterans’ Day celebrations were held with patriotic fervour to honour the service and sacrifices of ex-servicemen. The event was graced by Cabinet Minister Shri Satish Sharma as Chief Guest. Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, GOC-in-C Northern Command, delivered the welcome address, expressing gratitude to veterans for their contribution to nation-building. A key highlight was the digital inauguration of the Veerangana Seva Kendra helpline for Veer Naris, along with the felicitation of veterans and distribution of assistive aids such as electric wheelchairs, scooters and e-rickshaws to senior and specially-abled veterans. The celebrations reaffirmed the nation’s enduring commitment to its veterans.
Promoting sports and positive youth engagement in border areas, the Indian Army also organised the Shaheed Rifleman Aurangzeb Memorial Volleyball Tournament at Salani village near the Line of Control in Poonch district. Held under Operation Sadbhavana, the tournament commemorates the courage and sacrifice of Rifleman Aurangzeb and features eight local teams competing for the championship trophy. The event has generated enthusiasm among local residents and serves as a platform for fostering discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship and mutual trust in a sensitive border region.
Collectively, these initiatives underscore the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, community welfare, national integration and veteran support. Through sustained outreach across Kishtwar, Poonch and Rajouri, the Army continues to act as a pillar of stability, development and hope, reinforcing harmony, resilience and shared responsibility in Jammu and Kashmir.
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