Srinagar: Fifty Kashmiris were among 251 youths from J&K who were inducted into Army’s Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI) Regiment at a colourful passing out parade today.The parade was reviewed by Lt Gen JS Sandhu, General Officer Commanding, Chinar Corps, and was attended by over 1,500 parents and relatives of the young soldiers along with a number of civil and military dignitaries.The GOC, Chinar Corps, congratulated the young soldiers for their immaculate parade and impressed upon selfless service towards the nation.He praised their contribution towards encouraging more youth from J&K to come forward to join the security forces and also highlighted the vital role played by their parents in motivating their wards to join this noble profession.The young soldiers who distinguished themselves in varied facets of training were also felicitated by Lt General Sandhu.Recruit Rohit Singh of Jammu district received the Sher-e-Kashmir Sword of Honour and Triveni Singh Medal for being adjudged “Overall Best Recruit” and Recruit Randheer Singh of Kathua district bagged the Chewang Rinchen Medal for being “Best in Firing,” an Army spokesman said.Later talking to reporters, Lt General Sandhu said the interest and enthusiasm to join the Army was still very high among Kashmirs despite the killing of young Army officer Lt Ummar Fayaz.“We have not seen change. The interest and enthusiasm to join the Army is still very high. Youngsters in thousands are participating in recruitment rallies. The enthusiasm among people to get better livelihood opportunities has not diminished. When a youth reaches the age of 17 or 18 years, he has to make his life. Whatever opportunities he gets ready for that,” he said. (TNS)
