540 Agniveers join JAKLI ranks
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, May 30: General Officer Commanding (GOC) 16 Corps, Lt Gen P.K. Mishra, today said that beyond defending the nation’s borders, the Indian Army stands as a symbol of trust, confidence and protection for the people of the country.
He said the Army remains the nation’s first responder during wars, counter-terrorism operations and natural disasters.
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Lt Gen Mishra was addressing the attestation and passing-out parade of 540 Agniveers of the seventh batch at the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI) Regimental Centre here after they successfully completed 24 weeks of rigorous military training.
The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, civil dignitaries and family members of the Agniveers.
“The Indian Army is not only a force for protecting the nation’s borders but also a symbol of confidence and security for its people. Whether it is war, counter-terrorism operations or response to natural disasters, the Indian Army remains the nation’s first responder,” Lt Gen Mishra said.
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Reviewing the parade, the Corps Commander complimented the Agniveers on their immaculate turnout, synchronised drill and high standards of military bearing.
He also commended the training staff and instructors for their efforts in moulding the recruits into disciplined and combat-ready soldiers.
Of the 540 Agniveers who passed out, a majority belong to various districts of Kashmir.
Congratulating the newly attested soldiers, Lt Gen Mishra said they were joining a regiment with a rich legacy of bravery, sacrifice and patriotism.
Referring to the regiment’s motto, ‘Balidanam Veer Lakshanam’ (Sacrifice is the hallmark of the brave), he said sacrifice was not merely a word but a way of life for soldiers.
“You are becoming part of the JAKLI Regiment after undergoing 24 weeks of rigorous training. You are fortunate to join an Army whose history of bravery, sacrifice and patriotism has been written in golden letters,” he said.
The Army Commander said months of demanding physical training, tactical instruction and character-building exercises had prepared the Agniveers for the responsibilities of military service.
Lt Gen Mishra told the recruits that they now carried not only military ranks but also the hopes and trust of the nation.
“From today, you carry on your shoulders not only a rank but also the hopes and confidence of the nation. Your dedication, discipline and sacrifice will inspire future generations. I am confident that all of you will take this proud legacy to greater heights,” he said.
“I congratulate and thank your families for dedicating you to the service of the nation and encouraging you to join the Indian Army as Agniveers,” he said, while wishing the recruits safety, good health and success in their careers.
In a special gesture, dignitaries present at the ceremony collectively presented ‘Gaurav Padaks’ to the parents of the Agniveers, honouring their sacrifice and contribution in encouraging their sons to serve the nation.
The ceremony witnessed emotional scenes as proud parents and family members celebrated the induction of their sons into the Army and encouraged more youngsters to join the force.
Rukaya, a resident of Anantnag whose son passed out in the parade, said she was proud of his achievement and urged other youth to serve the nation.
“I am happy that my son has joined the Army. I appeal to other youngsters to join the force and serve the nation,” she said.
Ghulam Nabi Najar from Kulgam described his son’s induction as a matter of pride for the family.
“I am happy that he has passed out and will now serve the nation. I urge everyone to join the Army. It teaches discipline and honour and also provides secure employment,” he said.
Among the proud parents was retired soldier Sayar Ahmad Mir, whose son was among the Agniveers inducted into the regiment.
“It is a matter of honour for me. I took off the uniform, and now my son has put it on. I served for 30 years, and I hope he fulfils his responsibilities with the same dedication and spirit,” he said.
Mir said military service instils discipline, courage and a strong sense of responsibility towards society and the nation.
Another parent said his son, a former NCC cadet, had fulfilled his dream of joining the armed forces.
The parade culminated with the newly attested soldiers taking the oath of allegiance and marching past in a display of discipline, pride and military precision.
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