Indian Army’s Northern Command Flags Off National Integration Tour For Students

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

THATHRI, SEPT 22 :-Indian Army’s Northern Command Flags Off National Integration Tour For Students :- In a significant initiative towards fostering national integration, broadening the horizons of youth and strengthening the bond between the people of Jammu & Kashmir and the Armed Forces, the Indian Army under the aegis of Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) Delta and White Knight Corps flagged off a National Integration Tour (NIT) for students from the Gando-Bhallesa and Bunjwah regions of Doda and Kishtwar districts under Operation Sadbhavana.

The week-long tour, being organised by Indian Army comprises 30 students accompanied by four teachers. The students will undertake an educational and cultural journey from Jangalwar to Amritsar, Delhi, Jalandhar and Chandigarh from September 22 to September 29, 2026.

The tour has been conceptualised to provide students from remote and far-flung mountainous areas an opportunity to experience India’s rich cultural, historical and national heritage while promoting national integration, patriotism, confidence and a broader outlook among the youth.

The bus carrying the students was flagged off in the presence of DC Doda Krishan Lal JKAS, SSP Doda Shri Vikardik Shaurya, Chief Education Officer Doda Shri Bhushan Kumar Pathak, Brigadier Indian Army, Colonel K. D. Thakur, Commanding Officer, 26 Rashtriya Rifles, along with teachers, parents, students and members of the media.

Addressing the students, the Army representative described the tour as more than a journey from one destination to another, emphasising that it was an opportunity for the students to see India, understand India and experience the country more closely.

The students were encouraged to observe carefully, learn as much as possible, ask questions and interact openly with people from different regions and communities. They were also encouraged to share their experiences with their families, friends and fellow students after returning home.

The National Integration Tour is an integral part of the Indian Army’s continued efforts under Operation Sadbhavana to empower youth, promote national integration and provide meaningful educational and cultural exposure to students from remote and far-flung areas of Jammu & Kashmir.

Such initiatives provide young people with greater exposure to the diversity, history, culture and achievements of India while encouraging them to broaden their horizons, nurture aspirations and contribute positively towards nation building.

The Indian Army remains committed to empowering the youth, fostering national integration and strengthening the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and the people of Jammu & Kashmir.

The students expressed enthusiasm about the journey and looked forward to returning with new knowledge, experiences and unforgettable memories.