The Aryavarth Express
Poonch (Jammu & Kashmir): The Indian Army’s Territorial Army (TA) recruitment drive in Surankote town of Poonch district has drawn an overwhelming response, with thousands of young aspirants participating just days after Operation Sindoor. The large-scale initiative—aimed at boosting employment and strengthening Army–civilian engagement—will continue until December 15 and is expected to attract more than 30,000 candidates from across Jammu and Kashmir.
One participant expressed deep gratitude to the Army for launching the drive at a critical time. “We are grateful to the Indian Army for this recruitment drive amid rising unemployment. Nearly 1,500–2,000 boys participated today… This is completely free and fair, and with just 5 minutes of hard work, we have a bright future. My family wanted me to join the Army and serve the nation,” he said.
Another aspirant highlighted the importance of such initiatives in steering local youth away from drug addiction and towards productive careers. “This is a great opportunity for the youth, who are drifting towards drug addiction… So far, around 2,000 people have come, and up to 30,000 youth might participate. The recruitment was transparent and fair… We are thankful to the Indian Army for this,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Ghari Battalion of the Indian Army’s Poonch Brigade flagged off a National Integration Tour from Poonch to Dehradun on Sunday. The tour aims to familiarise students with the diverse cultural and operational dimensions of the Indian Army.
A student participating in the tour said, “Today, our National Integration Tour is going to Dehradun on behalf of the Poonch Brigade. This is a huge opportunity for us. Two or three students from each school have gone… The 10-day tour will introduce us to local culture, the functioning of the Brigade Army, and many aspects of India.”
Another student, Shaista Majid, expressed her appreciation, “The Poonch Brigade is offering a huge opportunity to all the children. We’ll be taken from Poonch to Dehradun and offered numerous opportunities. Even after Operation Sindoor, this is our first time going there. I would like to thank them for taking such a big step for us.”
