Passing out parade for over 300 Kashmiris

As many as 308 youth from different parts of the state joined the Army at an attestation parade here on Thursday when Kashmir Valley is virtually on fire as the unrest triggered by the killing of Hizb-ul-Mujahedin commander Burhan Wani about six weeks ago continues to take its toll on the daily life of over seven million people.

A statement issued by the Army said that the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regimental Centre at Rangreth on the outskirts of the summer capital showcased its latest batch of 308 passing out recruits from the State. Their passing out parade was reviewed by Jammu and Kashmir governor Narendra Nath Vohra. Over 1,500 parents and relatives of the young soldiers besides senior civil and military officials were also present, the statement said.

The attestation parade also formed a part of the regimental reunion of the JAK LI and was attended by many serving and retired officers of the Regiment including Lieutenant General Satish Dua, GOC of Srinagar-based 15 (Chinar) Corps and Colonel of the JAK LI Regiment.

“As a mark of solidarity with the people of Kashmir these sons of the soil and their families lit candles and prayed for calm and peace to return to the valley at the earliest,” the statement said.

It added, “The dauntless young soldiers of the regiment hailing from all regions and religions of the State of J&K, marching in precise unison with a singular aim of devoting their life in service of their nation, singing their Regimental song ‘Balidanam Veer Lakshnam’, inspired one and all as their voice echoed in the Valley.”

“Their ceremonial ardour and salute to the tri-colour with National Anthem playing, inspired patriotic vigour in all those present.”

The governor congratulated the young soldiers for their “immaculate” performance in the parade.