Early Times Report
  Poonch/ Rajouri, Nov 3:  In a remarkable initiative to foster national unity and broaden the horizons of young minds, the White Knight Corps of the Indian Army flagged off a National Integration Tour for school children from the Poonch and Rajouri districts under Operation Sadbhavana. The tour, scheduled from 03 November to 14 November 2025, aims to expose the youth of Jammu & Kashmir to the diverse cultural, educational and professional landscape of the nation, nurturing a sense of belonging and pride in India’s unity in diversity. The flag-off ceremony was presided over by Maj Gen Kaushik Mukherjee, SM, General Officer Commanding, ACE of Spades Division. Addressing the gathering, he emphasized the importance of instilling values of unity, discipline and national integration among young citizens. He stated, “This initiative is more than just a journey it is an opportunity for our young minds to witness the vast potential and diversity of our nation, to feel a sense of pride and inclusion and to realise the numerous avenues open before them.” During the tour, the students will visit some of India’s premier military and educational institutions including the National Defence Academy, Armed Forces Medical College, School of Artillery and Armoured Corps Centre & School. Interactions with cadets and faculty will offer them valuable insights into the life of the Armed Forces and career opportunities in the defence and public sectors. The itinerary also features visits to reputed educational establishments such as Symbiosis University and Indian Law Society’s Law College, along with cultural and heritage excursions across Pune, Deolali and Ahmednagar. This exposure to India’s educational excellence, military heritage and cultural richness is designed to inspire participants to become ambassadors of peace, unity and progress within their communities. The tour embodies the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment under Operation Sadbhavana to promote people-centric development, strengthen civil-military relations and nurture the youth of Jammu & Kashmir as responsible and confident citizens of the nation.  |